From Burnout to Badass: Dana Cox's Journey of Self-Discovery (MDE614)
June 07, 2025 · 62 min
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dana Cox, a business strategist, coach, and author from St. Louis. We delved into her journey from burnout to becoming a 'badass', as detailed in her book "From Burnout to Badass". Dana shared her personal experience of overcoming burnout, which stemmed from years of overcompensation and juggling multiple responsibilities. We discussed the challenges of recognizing burnout and the importance of self-knowledge in overcoming it. Dana emphasized the need to rewrite one's life story and the power of admitting when the life you've built no longer serves you. We explored the concept of work-life harmony rather than balance, and how cultural expectations can create unique challenges for women. Dana also shared insights on authentic leadership and creating joyful work environments. The conversation touched on the 'success tax' and 'joy tax', highlighting the importance of celebrating small wins and fostering a positive work culture. Overall, it was an enlightening discussion on personal growth, leadership, and finding joy in one's professional life.