

Redefining Ambition After Burnout | Zapier’s Kelly Vaughn
10 snips May 20, 2025
Kelly Vaughn, Senior Engineering Manager at Zapier and a trained therapist, shares her personal battle with burnout despite her expertise in identifying it. She candidly discusses the signs of burnout she overlooked, like diminishing passion and sleep disruptions. Kelly redefines her ambitions and highlights the importance of setting non-negotiables for well-being in tech. With the rise of AI, she emphasizes the need for reflection and balance, urging listeners to know their limits and embrace pivotal changes without sacrificing mental health.
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Tech Jobs Lose Luster
- Tech jobs lost their 'cushy' allure post-pandemic due to layoffs and office changes.
- New workforce generations focus more on skills and personal brand than long-term job safety.
Millennials Career Growth Challenges
- Millennials experience rapid early career growth but often face a slowdown or decline in their 30s.
- The pandemic and fast-moving tech landscape exacerbate unsustainable pace and burnout.
Fast Climb Can Close Doors
- Rapid career progression often blinds people to reflecting on their true desires.
- Growing responsibilities can close doors to preferred career paths unintentionally.