Big Meaningful Life

In this second part of my conversation with Doug Thorpe, we dive even deeper into the emotional and psychological landscape of burnout—not just from overwork, but from under-stimulation and misalignment. Together, we explore the intersection of mental wellness, identity, and the tools that help us reconnect with what truly matters.

We also touch on the nuances of the so-called “midlife crisis,” why engagement at work starts with self-awareness, and how democratizing access to behavioral science and coaching can shift lives—not just careers.

Top Takeaways:
  • Burnout isn’t always about doing too much—sometimes, it’s about not doing what lights you up (bore out is real).
  • True engagement begins when we understand what drives us, not just what we do.
  • Tools like the Wheel of Life can help us see imbalance before burnout sets in.
  • Coaching creates the space to reflect, recalibrate, and reclaim your direction.
  • Midlife crises are often identity crises in disguise—an invitation to realign, not unravel.
If your life was a dashboard, which area would be flashing red—and are you willing to pay attention before it breaks down?


Connect with Doug Thorpe:

https://dougthorpe.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougthorpe/

https://instagram.com/dougthorpe_com

Tune in every week for a new episode of Big Meaningful Life. Subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform and never miss an episode!

Connect with Sally on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallymahamdeh

Send Sally an email with ideas for future episodes: sally@hayatti.co

Music Credit:
This episode features ''Je n'y suis jamais allé'' by Yann Tiersen.

What is Big Meaningful Life?

Welcome to Big Meaningful Life.

Hi, I’m Sally Mahamdeh, an Emotional Intelligence-certified coach and trainer.

Are you someone who holds yourself to high standards, strives for ambitious goals, and feels deeply empathetic toward others?
If so, you might be a Sensitive Striver—just like me.

The driving question behind this podcast is simple yet profound:
How can you care deeply, achieve greatly, and truly enjoy the life you’re building?

Join me as we explore the answers with inspiring guests—coaches, psychologists, and neuroscientists—who share practical tools and transformative insights.

Your journey to a big, meaningful life—free from overwhelm—starts now.