In a year of research on the nature of work and mid-career evolution, one word keeps surfacing: compassion.

Compassion for others, yes. But more importantly, self-compassion.

It's essential for sustained performance at work, and essential for navigating the messy middle of mid-career.

This week’s guest reinforces that idea and expands our understanding with both science and practical tools we can put to use.

Heather Doyle Fraser is a publisher, author, entrepreneur, and coach who leads the Compassionate Mind Collaborative.

In our conversation, Heather explains the physiology of self-compassion and the “threat, drive, soothe” emotional regulation system that shape our daily experience:

Threat – the fears of not being enough, of failing, of being judged.

Drive – the fuel, values, and purpose that makes us want to do/create something

Soothe – the comfort and self-care we can introduce into the equation

Heather shows how recognizing and balancing these forces supports both career growth and creativity.

She also shares tactical tools for creative output, from creating enough time, to shaping our physical environment, to cultivating a cognitive landscape where compassion leads instead of the critic.

We also dig into

• the vagus nerve and Theory Polyvagal theory
• comparisons between elite athletes and high performing leaders
• importance of cultivating curiosity
• how changing your state can help you find your flow
• the whiteboard shower hack
• Heather's family band
• our work together on my book Collaboration is King

Throughout our conversation the reminder is simple but profound: even the most seasoned leaders and creators wrestle with fear and doubt. What carries them forward is practice and support.

Let’s keep making career more of a team sport.

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Connect with Heather on LinkedIn
Visit her website to learn more about how to work with her in a one-on-one or group setting
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Host: Brady Sadler

Let's connect on LinkedIn

Show Art: Kyle Mosher