Trigger warning: infertility and pregnancy loss.

Introduction

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dani Strang, CEO of Maggie, as we delve into the complexities of career sacrifice, pregnancy loss, and the neurological pathways that stifle women's voices and lead to burnout. In this episode, Dani shares her deeply personal journey and insights, shedding light on the systemic suppression of women's voices and the profound impact of the "Better Not" reflex.

Connection and Synergy

Dani and my serendipitous connection through LinkedIn sets the stage for this powerful dialogue. Dani introduces Maggie, a private cohort-based community designed to help women dismantle harmful neurological pathways, born out of her own burnout story, highlighting the shared experiences of women navigating career challenges and voice suppression. They reflect on the subtle yet pervasive societal norms that shape women's communication patterns and self-expression.

The Sacrifice of Self

Examining the toll of career advancement on personal identity, Dani defines her first 15 years in her career as her one-way ticket to the loss of sense of self unveiling the hidden sacrifices women make to attain success. From internalized expectations to societal pressures, they explore the erosion of selfhood amidst professional pursuits. Sharing a personal story from her time in university, she reveals how data from our experiences stays with us to create an inner rhetoric.

Trauma, Stress, and the “Better Not” Reflex

Drawing parallels between everyday stressors, or little ‘t’ traumas vs. big ‘T’ traumas, Dani reveals the impact little ‘t’ stressors can have when compounded over time. She discusses the physiological responses to chronic stress and the insidious nature of self-doubt based on past experience that create the “Better Not” reflex in women.

Navigating Pregnancy Loss and Workplace Dynamics

Dani courageously shares her deeply person experiences of pregnancy loss within the context of career uncertainty and workplace expectations. From concealing personal struggles for fear of their impact to managing professional responsibilities under great duress, she unveils the emotional complexity of balancing vulnerability with societal norms.

Redefining Resilience and Acknowledging Realities

We talk about challenging the conventional definition of resilience, emphasizing the societal pressures for women to “bounce back” quickly from adversity. We discuss the pervasive culture of hustle, and the unspoken burdens women carry, calling for a reevaluation of resilience in a nuanced and more compassionate light.

Closing

This compelling discussion is just the beginning of our journey toward understanding and healing. Join us in for the continuation of our conversation with Dani, where we will continue to explore the complexities of navigating career and identity as women in the workplace. Until then, remember that your voice matters, and you are not alone in your experiences. Together we can dismantle the “Better not” reflex and empower women to reclaim their true voice. Together, we can live life lit. 🔥

A heartfelt thanks to Dani Strang for her openness, wisdom, and dedication to fostering meaningful change. To those who may be navigating similar challenges, we extend empathy and solidarity.