Battling Burnout: Katy Howell’s Powerful Story of Recovery and Renewal

The Beautiful Business Podcast

In this episode, Katy Howell, founder of Immediate Future, shares her personal and professional challenges, offering listeners a candid insight into her experience with mental health, burnout, and leadership as a female founder of colour.

Katy opens up about the pressures of being a people pleaser, which contributed to a toxic work environment, and explores how self-reflection and recognising personal stress triggers were crucial to her recovery. Through therapy, medication, and deep introspection, she learned the importance of relinquishing control and prioritising well-being.

Listeners will gain valuable lessons on balancing business responsibilities with personal recovery, and the realisation that stepping back from the business is essential for long-term sustainability. The episode dives into the importance of self-compassion, fostering open conversations about mental health in the agency world, and building a supportive community.

The conversation also touches on Katy’s daily practices—yoga, meditation, and creative outlets—that help maintain mental well-being. Empathy, active listening, and nurturing the next generation of agency leaders are central themes, with a focus on enjoying the journey rather than fixating on the destination.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners, founders, and agency leaders who want to build resilience and prioritise their mental health while navigating the demands of entrepreneurship.

Trigger Warning

This episode includes discussions around mental health challenges, including burnout, anxiety, and the use of medication and therapy for recovery. These topics may be triggering for some listeners. If you are feeling overwhelmed or in need of support, we encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional or one of the resources listed in the show notes.

Mind – A leading UK mental health charity offering advice and support to empower anyone experiencing mental health issues.

Website: https://www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans – A confidential support service available 24/7 for people who are feeling distressed or struggling to cope.

Website: https://www.samaritans.org

Phone: 116 123 (free to call)

The Hub of Hope – A national mental health database, bringing together local and national mental health services, making it easier to find help.

Website: https://hubofhope.co.uk

Mental Health Foundation – Offering resources, research, and support for improving mental health across the UK.

Website: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk

NABS – A wellbeing and support service specifically for those in the advertising and media industries, offering free advice and counselling.

Website: https://nabs.org.uk

Business in the Community: Mental Health Resources – Aimed at business leaders, this initiative provides guides, toolkits, and research for improving mental health at work.

Website: https://www.bitc.org.uk/toolkit/mental-health-for-employers

The Sanctuary – A mental health crisis service offering support for those experiencing severe mental distress in the UK.

Website: https://www.sanctuarymentalhealth.org