The Anxious Achiever
Morra Aarons-Mele
Host Morra Aarons-Mele is on a mission to reframe how we think about anxiety and mental health in the workplace. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S. We desperately need better models for leadership and a more holistic view of mental health. Our culture tells those of us who suffer from anxiety and depression that we can’t succeed, but we tell a different story — without sugarcoating the tough stuff. We feature stories from people who’ve been there and experts who can help you thrive.Listen in your favorite podcast app: https://pod.link/1480904163
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Jun 5, 2024 • 52min
Craig Robinson on Following Your Passion, Forgetting What Others Think, and Bringing out the Best in People
Basketball legend Craig Robinson shares his journey from finance to coaching, lessons from family, insights on high performers, and handling negativity while pursuing passions.
May 30, 2024 • 3min
Coming Soon: Season 10
Season 10 of a popular podcast covers managing anxiety around AI, crafting a career with Tourette's syndrome, identifying people pleasing behaviors, toxic bosses, and emotional management in tough situations. The lineup promises insightful discussions on mental health challenges, neurodivergence, hidden strengths, and an interview with basketball legend Craig Robinson.
5 snips
May 29, 2024 • 52min
Thinkers50: The Limits and Responsibilities of Leaders
Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmonson, along with other guests, discuss the leader's role in destigmatizing mental health in the workplace. They explore vulnerability, authenticity, and the power of storytelling in fostering open dialogues. The conversation touches on navigating disagreements, embracing fallibility for growth, and building strong teams through emotional intelligence.
12 snips
May 22, 2024 • 57min
Thinkers50: Can We Banish Burnout?
Professor Alyson Meister from IMD Business School discusses ways to combat burnout in the workplace. The podcast explores the impact of technology on mental health, the connection between leader identity and self-care boundaries, and strategies to prevent burnout. It also challenges common beliefs about imposter thoughts and offers proactive recovery strategies for individuals and organizations.
10 snips
May 15, 2024 • 56min
Thinkers50: Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy, Start Being Your Best Friend
Duke Professor, McKinsey Senior Partner, and City Council Member discuss changing self-talk and work habits. Topics include self-compassion, imposter syndrome, embracing imperfections, navigating mental health challenges, and compassionate leadership. Guests share personal stories and highlight the importance of self-love and vulnerability in leadership roles.
May 8, 2024 • 55min
Thinkers50: Improving Work, Improving Mental Health (For Everyone)
Columbia Business School professor Rita McGrath, Copenhagen Business School professor Poornima Luthra, and entrepreneur Andrew Barnes discuss rethinking work to improve mental health. Topics include the impact of a four-day workweek on productivity and employee well-being, creating psychologically safe environments through active listening, and fostering resilience and inclusivity in organizations.
4 snips
May 1, 2024 • 32min
When Anxiety Sneaks Up on You, Try Something Different
Emma Seppala, lecturer at Yale, shares insights on managing workplace anxiety by trying new behaviors like moving around and avoiding doom scrolling. She discusses overcoming self-loathing with self-compassion, breaking the cycle of burnout, and the importance of embracing emotions in the workplace for overall well-being.
23 snips
Apr 17, 2024 • 39min
Are You And Your Employer In An Abusive Relationship?
Sarah Green Carmichael, Bloomberg Opinion columnist, joins the discussion on workplace culture and mental health. Topics include toxic work relationships, overwork, burnout, setting boundaries, redefining success, and promoting team collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a supportive work environment for anxious achievers.
16 snips
Apr 10, 2024 • 55min
Mental Health Literacy Can Change Lives - and Careers
Kent Coules shares his media career and sobriety journey, while Donna Volpitta discusses the importance of mental health literacy. They highlight managing anxiety, addiction recovery, resilience, and the need for awareness in business and society.
4 snips
Apr 3, 2024 • 48min
Think Your Family Background Doesn’t Affect You At Work? Think Again
Professor Deborah Ancona discusses how family dynamics influence workplace behaviors, calling these behaviors 'ghosts.' She explores the impact of these 'ghosts' on leadership, personal growth, and professional behavior. Ancona emphasizes the importance of understanding past influences and transforming them for improved work relationships and self-growth.
