In this conversation, I sit down with Coach Ellen, a former scientist turned burnout expert, to explore her journey from academia to entrepreneurship and her mission to help others navigate the challenges of modern work. Ellen shares how her personal experience with burnout during her PhD program led her to research and develop practical strategies for recovery, ultimately inspiring her transition into coaching. We dive into the roots of burnout, including the societal pressures of high achievement, the myths of work-life balance, and how emotional misalignment often manifests as burnout. Ellen unpacks her proactive approach to stress management, emphasizing the power of systems, self-awareness, and sustainable self-care practices. She also reflects on the unique challenges faced by portfolio careerists and high achievers, offering actionable insights for thriving in unconventional work models.