In this episode, Avery and Courtney McCarthy, founder of Loyobo FIT, delve into redefining success by embracing rest and balancing productivity. Courtney, a high achiever from a young age, shares her journey through burnout and recovery. As a business owner who faced the immense challenges of running a brick-and-mortar studio during COVID-19, planning a wedding, and navigating a separation/divorce, Courtney provides a raw and honest perspective on burnout and resilience.

Courtney’s story highlights the significant impact of linking self-worth to productivity and the importance of uncoupling this mindset. From working 16-hour days to the realization that pushing through is not always the answer, she shares how she learned to slow down and set boundaries. Her experiences underscore the necessity of addressing mental health and understanding the long-term effects of childhood trauma on adult life.

Introduction of Avery and Courtney [00:00-01:00]: Avery and Courtney introduce themselves and the topic of the episode, emphasizing the importance of redefining success to include rest and well-being. Courtney shares her background, including her experience as a high achiever and the challenges she faced as a business owner during the pandemic.

Discussion on High Achiever Identity [02:30-07:00]: Avery and Courtney share their experiences as high achievers, discussing the early years of relentless drive, societal pressures, and the impact on their mental and physical health. Courtney reflects on how her high achiever identity served her by allowing her to accomplish significant goals but also sabotaged her by tying her self-worth to productivity.

Recognizing the Need for Change [07:00-12:00]: Avery describes the pivotal moment that made her reconsider her approach to work and success. Courtney shares her burnout experience, detailing how working long hours, playing the "when I" game, and facing a new mental health diagnosis forced her to reevaluate her life and priorities.

Embracing Rest [12:00-18:00]: The hosts discuss the significance of rest in maintaining long-term success. Avery provides practical tips for integrating rest into a busy schedule, while Courtney emphasizes the role of self-care in mental and emotional health. Courtney talks about learning to appreciate solo time and using somatic and TIPS emotional regulation strategies to manage her mood.

Redefining Success [18:00-23:00]: Avery and Courtney talk about how they redefined success beyond professional achievements. They offer advice on balancing ambition with well-being and finding fulfillment in various life areas. Courtney shares strategies for recovery, such as setting boundaries, getting clear on what matters, and learning to accept "less" as more.

Conclusion [23:00-25:30]: Recap of key points and closing thoughts on embracing rest to redefine success. The hosts encourage listeners to evaluate their definitions of success and the role of rest in their lives. They thank the audience and sign off.