We Are For Good Podcast - The Podcast for Nonprofits Gather At The Well: Understanding and Healing Compassion Fatigue - Lindsey Fuller and Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison
In this episode, Lindsey sits down with Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison (or Dr. J, as many call her) to explore the often unspoken reality of compassion fatigue in human-centered work.
Physical exhaustion? Increased irritability? Social withdrawal? These might be signs of compassion fatigue—and you're not alone. Dr. J connects her personal experience with practical wisdom for creating policies that actually support the humans doing this important work. As she reminds us: "People want to do their best. As a system it's our responsibility to give them all the tools so they can do their best."
You’ll learn:
• How to recognize compassion fatigue before reaching crisis point
• Why policies created without input from those most impacted rarely succeed
• Practical ways to build authentic check-ins into your team culture
Whether you're a teacher, nonprofit leader, or anyone committed to human-centered change, join us for this important conversation. Because naming compassion fatigue is the first step toward healing it. 👊
Affirmations
- My worth is not measured by my output.
- I lead with compassion, and I extend that same compassion to myself.
- I release the need to carry everything alone.
- I am allowed to need what I give so freely to others.
- Healing is not a destination—it’s a practice. And I am practicing.
Episode Highlights
- Understanding Compassion Fatigue (4:31)
- Signs and Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue (11:45)
- The Impact of Compassion Fatigue on Educators (18:46)
- Addressing Compassion Fatigue in the Workplace (23:25)
- Implementing Support Systems for Educators (27:51)
- Success Stories in Addressing Compassion Fatigue (37:03)
- Finding Hope and Resilience in Education (43:00)
Resources Mentioned:
- Professional quality of life scale
- 5 Love Languages Book
- Professional Authenticity Episode
- Dr. J’s Blog
- Dr. J’s TEDx Talk
- Buy Dr. J’s Book: Addressing Compassion Fatigue in Urban Schools
www.weareforgood.com/episode/understandingandhealingcompassionfatigue
Become a Member and Get All-Access to Everything We Are For Good!
Experience the Impact Uprising Membership by We Are For Good: an ecosystem to learn, connect + grow in the power of a value-aligned community. Members gather monthly with Jon + Becky at exclusive members-only meetups + get video access to all new podcast episodes in an ad-free experience + so much more! Learn more + join us at weareforgood.com.
Say hi👇
LinkedIn / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube / Twitter