In this episode of the Burnout to Brilliance Podcast (formerly The Art of Balance), Jayne Morris MCC introduces a deeply insightful conversation with Dr Richard Duggins, consultant psychiatrist and author of Burnout-Free Working. Together, they explore what it truly means to work and live, in ways that prevent burnout rather than merely recover from it.

Following the moving parable that opens Richard’s book, inspired by Bishop Desmond Tutu’s story of the burnout river, Richard reflects on his 20-year journey as “the doctor’s doctor,” supporting thousands of professionals through burnout, anxiety, and depression.

This conversation examines what’s really going on upstream: the systemic causes of burnout, the importance of psychologically safe workplace cultures, and how leaders can reach in, rather than expecting individuals to toughen up or “be more resilient.”

Jayne and Richard also unpack the Exhaustion Funnel and Burnout Cliff models, offering clear and compassionate ways to recognise early warning signs, restore balance, and cultivate connection. Together, they invite listeners to rethink resilience, not as an individual trait, but as something built through relationships, care, and community.

A hopeful and practical start to the new series, this episode is for anyone who wants to thrive in demanding environments without losing themselves in the process.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the Burnout to Brilliance Podcast

00:45 Welcoming Dr Richard Duggins

01:20 Rethinking Resilience: Beyond the Individual

04:00 The Exhaustion Funnel: How Balance Narrows Over Time

07:15 The Cost of Isolation and the Power of Connection

09:45 What Organisations Can Do to Prevent Burnout

12:30 The Burnout Cliff: Spotting the Signs Before Collapse

16:10 Finding Your People and Building Safety at Work

20:15 The Role of Leadership and Psychological Safety

25:00 From Burnout to Brilliance: Reigniting Hope

28:00 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

Dr Richard Duggins
Author of Burnout-Free Working
Burnout-Free Working on Amazon

Connect with Jayne Morris MCC
The UK’s leading executive burnout coach & author of Burnout to Brilliance

LinkedIn: @jaynemorrisMCC

Burnout to Brilliance on Amazon

Follow Balanceology
LinkedIn: @Balanceology
Website: www.balanceology.uk

About Balanceology
Balanceology is a leading coaching organisation dedicated to preventing workplace burnout and restoring sustainable success. Through talks, workshops, trainings, coaching and retreats, Balanceology supports individuals and organisations to work well, live fully, and thrive.

The Balanceology Certified Burnout Coach CPD Training is ICF accredited and carries 64 CCEUs