Episode Summary:
In this bite-sized episode of The Inner Entrepreneur, we dive into one of the most honest, powerful conversations we’ve had—unpacking the hidden cost of high achievement, scaling addiction, ego-driven business growth, and the wake-up call that changed everything.
Our guest shares her deeply personal story of entrepreneurial burnout, medical crisis, and transformation. From growing a business 50% year over year to hearing the words, “You’re going to die if you don’t slow down,” this is a raw and revealing look at what happens when the drive for success overshadows life itself.
We also break down:
- Why many entrepreneurs are addicted to achievement without realizing it
- How revenue growth can mask deeper business (and life) imbalances
- The myth of "scaling at all costs" and the rise of what she calls ego debt
- The real cost of chasing validation over values
- How to build a business that actually supports the life you want
If you've ever felt the pressure to keep growing, pushing, achieving—this episode is a must-listen.
What You’ll Learn:
- The warning signs of burnout even during “success”
- When growth becomes unsustainable — and what to do instead
- The danger of comparing your journey to revenue-driven LinkedIn posts
- Why profitability often matters more than top-line revenue
- A better way to scale: sustainable, intentional, and life-aligned
Powerful Quotes:
“I had the heart of a 60-year-old woman in my 30s — and I thought I was just tired.”
“Scaling a business without strategy is just ego wearing a business suit.”
“The achievement drug is real — and it’s just as dangerous as any other addiction.”
“At 5 to 7 million, they were making more profit than at 10 or 20 million. But ego told them to push.”
“Let your business serve your life — not the other way around.”
🎧 Full Episode:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0QYciABE5yHcCCdB0DJuWz?si=a3a97720f6514b7a
https://youtu.be/_E16JiV6B7c?si=vi0Vl9kZfcRfP8ux
If this episode hits home, please take a moment to share it. Tag a friend, leave a review, or post your biggest insight. Let’s build businesses that build lives — not break them.
About the host:
Paul Ryan is an entrepreneur, 8 figure business owner, mentor, podcaster and creator of the 1-Hour CEO Mastermind. As a CEO, Paul has a depth of 'real life' experience of what it takes to be successful in business and life.
Connect with the host:
https://www.theonehourceo.com/
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