168. MiniCast: Not Burned Out, Just Bored: Why High Performers Leave and How to Keep Them

Burnout gets a lot of attention in the workplace, but what about boredom?

In this episode, I explore the other reason high performers quietly leave organizations they once loved: underutilization. I’ll walk you through real stories from leaders I’ve worked with, share insights from my national research, and break down the Stretch Capacity™ framework to help you create growth opportunities without overwhelming your team.

You’ll learn:

  • Why “not feeling stretched” can lead to disengagement and turnover

  • How leaders can provide challenge, autonomy, and advancement (even during tough times)

  • The link between trust, innovation, and stretch

Whether you lead a team of two or two thousand, this episode will help you rethink how you support and retain your top talent.

🎧 Listen in and ask yourself: are your people truly burned out… or just bored?

#Leadership #StretchCapacity #EmployeeEngagement #WorkplaceWellness #RetentionStrategies #FutureOfWork #HighPerformanceTeams

00:00 Introduction to Stretch Capacity

00:27 Understanding Stretch Capacity Zones

00:46 The Importance of Stretching Even in Burnout

01:14 Real-Life Examples of Stretching at Work

02:12 The Consequences of Not Stretching Employees

03:44 Encouraging Innovation and Growth

04:19 Personal Stories of Seeking Growth

05:08 Final Thoughts on Stretch Capacity

06:16 Conclusion and Call to Action

Ready to help your team grow without burning out—or fading out?

If you're seeing signs of disengagement, turnover, or missed potential, it might not be burnout—it might be boredom. The right kind of stretch could make all the difference.

Let’s talk about how I can help your organization create a culture where people stretch, grow, and stay—through a keynote, workshop, or leadership training.

Prefer to start with a resource?
Download my Leadership & Engagement Blueprint—a practical, research-backed guide for helping teams thrive with trust, innovation, and stretch.


Next
Next

167. Minicast: From Burnout to Bounce Back: How to Build Your Resilience Reserves