Have you ever felt like you’re running on empty, but still trying to write, create, and keep all the plates spinning?
In this episode of
Creating Happy Writers, I chat with the brilliant Hazel Anderson Turner — psychologist, coach, and author of
Coaching Through Burnout. Hazel brings a grounded, compassionate voice to a topic that so many of us quietly carry: burnout.
Especially the kind that creeps in when we care deeply about our work, our people, and our purpose.
Hazel has worked extensively within the NHS and public sector, leading coaching programmes focused on resilience, wellbeing, and — eventually — burnout prevention. Her book was born out of lived experience and a deep desire to help others recognise the signs, intervene early, and stay well while doing meaningful work.
Hazel now supports individuals and organisations through coaching, workshops and consultancy — and in this conversation, she brings her full self to the mic: the psychologist, the business owner, the writer… and the human.
In this episode, we explore:
- Why burnout often shows up in high-achieving, values-led people (yes, even the ones who “should know better”
- The difference between regular stress and real burnout — and how to spot the warning signs early
- How coaching can support burnout recovery — and protect your energy as a writer or business owner
- The hidden emotional load of running your own business, and how boundary-setting can be a radical act of self-care
- How Hazel approached writing her book without burning out — including the writing habits that made it sustainable (and even joyful)
- What to do when imposter syndrome shows up with “Who am I to write this?” — and why the way you feel while writing matters just as much as what you write
Hazel’s take on writing is refreshing, honest, and beautifully encouraging. If you’ve ever stared at a blank screen feeling completely detached from your creative spark, this episode will meet you right there — and gently remind you what’s possible when you create from a place of ease.
You’ll find links to Hazel’s book
Coaching Through Burnout, her coaching work, and more in the show notes below.
I hope you enjoy listening.
Connect with Hazel and her book:
Further resources from me
- My book, ‘Dare to Write: How to Write a Nonfiction Book to Grow Your Business,’ is available now on Amazon or directly via my website.
