Sustainable Ambition: Redefining Success Without Burning Out with Kathy Oneto

Update: 2025-07-24

Description

Is ambition driving you—or draining you? In this powerful episode, Lindsey welcomes Kathy Oneto, author of Sustainable Ambition, to unpack how we can pursue our goals without sacrificing our well-being. They explore how ambition operates on a curve, how to balance drive with rest, and why our motivation doesn’t always have to come from within.

With practical tools and a refreshing take on success, this conversation invites you to slow down, reflect, and align your ambitions with what actually matters.

Listen in to learn more:

Ambition operates like pressure: too much or too little can backfire
‣ 00:00:01 – 00:00:31

Kathy introduces the "ambition curve" and how finding your sweet spot leads to optimal performance. Our culture pushes a ‘more is more’ mindset—but at a cost
‣ 00:01:00 – 00:02:30

Kathy breaks down how external influences and idealized standards can lead to overload and dissatisfaction. Motivation doesn’t have to be pure to be effective
‣ 00:04:30 – 00:06:00

Lindsay and Kathy agree: extrinsic motivators can be valid stepping stones toward deeper purpose. The 4 sustainable motivators: vision, purpose, values, and joy
‣ 00:07:00 – 00:08:30

Kathy walks us through the core motivators behind her framework for sustainable ambition. Ambition changes throughout your life—and that’s okay
‣ 00:09:00 – 00:10:30

From resume goals to legacy building, Kathy shares how our definition of success evolves over time. Ambition isn’t an identity—it’s a state that can ebb and flow
‣ 00:13:00 – 00:15:00

Learn how detaching from ambition as a fixed trait creates space for rest and recovery. The Sustainable Ambition Framework: Right ambition, right time, right effort
‣ 00:16:00 – 00:18:00
Kathy outlines her 3-pillar model and how it can help prevent burnout while still pursuing what matters.

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