Inspiring Conversations with Katherine Sauer of Burnout Proof Leaders

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katherine Sauer.

Katherine, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The first 15 years of my career were spent in the economics and personal finance space. I was an economics professor, the inaugural director of financial wellness, education, and research for the University of Colorado System, a vice president at a boutique investment consulting firm, and vice president of research, programs, and strategic impact at National Endowment for Financial Education (which happens to be located in Denver). I truly loved my work in this area and got to be a part of some amazing projects.

Like many people, during the pandemic I reevaluated my priorities and decided it was time to share my expertise in a new way, and at the end of 2020 I stepped back from my executive role at the endowment. I endeavored to share with others all of the work-life wellness tools and knowledge that I had accumulated as I advanced in my career. I founded Burnout Proof Leaders as a holistic leadership development firm, where cultivating personal vitality is treated as just as important as refining leadership skills.

I’ve been fortunate to take a couple of personal sabbaticals during my career, where I stepped out of the workforce to focus on some passion projects. Highlights include launching a guided meditation app with quick recordings on workplace relevant topics, fulfilling the intensive training and vetting required to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Children, and exhibiting my artwork in a solo show.

Alongside running Burnout Proof Leaders, I am currently in the initial phase of working on an initiative to catalyze, foster, and amplify endeavors that promote systemic change that unleashes human capital. Additionally, I’m writing a book called Frictionless, which is about using authentic motivation for a career of effortless momentum. My workday guided meditation tracks have been rehomed from my original app, onto the free Insight Timer platform.

Outside of work, I enjoy creative pursuits like dancing and creating mixed media art. I do a lot of yoga. As an herbivore, I enjoy cooking gourmet plant-based meals. Puns and memes are my preferred style of humor. My last name is pronounced “sour” like a lemon.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As someone who identified for decades as a high-achiever and type-A personality, prone to working through burnout, the ongoing challenge I face is to practice letting go so I can enjoy the ride. To truly embrace all parts of me. To let go of what I’ve been conditioned to believe about achieving and success and to define it for myself. To realize that I don’t have to give 100% at all times and in all areas. To prioritize having fun.

As you know, we’re big fans of Burnout Proof Leaders. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Burnout Proof Leaders provides leadership and well-being programming for conscious visionaries – especially entrepreneurs, philanthropists, social impact leaders, movement makers, and other influencers (e.g., artists, writers, athletes, executive coaches). Our programming takes a truly holistic approach, viewing as equals modern leadership competencies and all four aspects of well-being (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual). One thing that sets us apart from other leadership and resilience firms is our focus on cutting-edge proficiencies like intuitive intelligence and embodied leadership.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love meeting new people so feel free to connect on LinkedIn and send me a message there. On my personal website, you can sign up to receive updates about my book. If you’d consider yourself to be a conscious, visionary leader, please check out the Burnout Proof Leaders website to see if you like our vibe.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://katherinesauer.com
• Instagram: @yogiconomist
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/katherinesauer
• Other: https://burnoutproofleaders.com

Image Credits
Gabriela Gjurekovec