Empathy and Connection in High-Pressure Environments

Ever resented someone you were supposed to help? Or felt too exhausted to care, even when you knew you should?

Our guests have. Daren Forbes has dedicated his life to funeral service, and Dr. Steve Jackson serves people as a physician. They know what it’s like to feel called to meaningful, people-centered work—and still feel resentful, drained, or disconnected from the very people they’re trying to serve. They share their messy moments when their mindset became the deciding factor in their ability to show up effectively instead of shut down.

Ideas we explore: 

01:20 — How to keep showing up when you’re completely worn out 

05:45 — The shift that moves you from resentment back into service 

10:30 — Unlocking creativity and care even when exhausted 

13:50 — How an inward mindset clouds your judgment 

18:05 — Why caring for coworkers reduces burnout and turnover 

27:45 — How well-meaning policies can quietly set people up to fail 

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