#159 The Serial Fixer Trap: Boundaries, Burnout, and Better Leadership

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your own well-being at work—and at home—by trying to fix everyone else's problems?

So many of us find purpose and validation in helping, supporting, and "solving" for others. But what happens when that good intention tips into burnout, resentment, and codependent relationships? In this episode, I dig into the hidden costs of being a "serial fixer" with my guest Leah Marone, whose new book offers a powerful wakeup call for leaders, parents, and anyone in a people-focused role. Leah shines a light on why constant fixing and over-helping backfire, both for us and for the people we care about, and how learning to "support, don't solve" can transform workplaces and families.

If you work in customer service, HR, management, education—or if you just find yourself constantly taking on the world's problems—you need to hear Leah's insights. She brings two decades of experience as a psychotherapist, mental wellness consultant, keynote speaker, former Division 1 athlete, and proud "recovering perfectionist." Leah's thoughtful and practical wisdom will help you recognize your own patterns and set boundaries that actually serve everyone better—not least, yourself.

Here are three essential questions Leah answers in our conversation:

• What's the real-world business impact when leaders fall into the "serial fixer" trap—and how does it show up on your team and bottom line?

• What does it actually feel like to work for, or with, someone who is always fixing and "helping"—and what damage does that cause to confidence and connection?

• How can you identify when you're stuck in the fixer role, and what actionable steps can you take (from her "support, don't solve" model) to create healthier boundaries in your relationships?

I invite you to listen, subscribe, and share this episode—it just might save you (and your organization) from burnout. Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or any of your favorite podcast platforms.

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Meet Leah Marone

Leah Marone is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, keynote speaker, and leading mental wellness consultant with over 20 years of experience. She collaborates with individuals and organizations across high-empathy, high-pressure professions—including customer service, education, HR, and healthcare. Leah is a regular contributor to Psychology Today and serves as an expert voice for Newsweek and The Atlantic. A former Division 1 athlete and self-described "recovering perfectionist," Leah is passionate about helping individuals set boundaries, overcome burnout, and develop sustainable emotional health—both at work and at home.

In her new book, The Serial Fixer (available November 11), Leah reveals why "helping" can go too far and offers a blueprint for more empowering, resilient relationships. She's available for speaking, consulting, and team-based book studies, and loves connecting with readers and listeners.

Website: leahmarone.com
Book: serial-fixer.com
LinkedIn: Leah Marone on LinkedIn

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Show Notes & References

• The Serial Fixer by Leah Marone: serial-fixer.com (Pre-order available; releases November 11)

• Leah's main site: leahmarone.com

• Leah Marone LinkedIn: Leah Marone

• Book available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Bookshop, and other major retailers

Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast app!