What happens when the work you love starts to drain the life out of you, or disappears altogether? In this episode, the two Schalks sit down with Kate van Niekerk (She Can Do), design strategist, researcher, and wordsmith, for an honest and compassionate conversation about burnout, identity, and navigating the messy middle of tech careers.

Kate shares her story of being laid off, the emotional weight of suddenly losing direction, and the very real challenges that come with being stuck in between jobs, not just financially, but personally. From the struggle to find meaningful work to the pressure to stay “productive,” this episode explores what it means to pause, recalibrate, and rediscover your value outside of a job title.

Along the way, Kate reflects on the power of mentorship, the quiet strength of setting boundaries, and the importance of building a career that supports your well-being.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or uncertain about your next step, this conversation is for you.

Take care of yourself while listening. We touch on sensitive topics as part of this podcast. Those topics can include mental illness, depression, suicide ideation, death, and related mental health and mental illness topics. We understand that these subjects can be sensitive and may be triggering for some individuals. We encourage you to prioritize your well-being and mental health while listening. If you feel overwhelmed or need support, please get in touch with a mental health professional or a helpline in your country. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available. Follow the link to find the help you need.

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