Two Burnouts And One Health Scare That Sparked Change
Two burnouts. One health scare. And a decision that changed everything.
Join me as I chat with the brilliant Riannon Palmer, founder of B Corp PR agency Lem‑uhn, on her podcast Lemonade Leaders for a big old honest change about how my bonkers career in the music industry and then later how my work as PA to a global CEO pushed me to the edge - twice.
Losing my spleen was a major health scare which halted me in my tracks. I'd been guilty of burning the candle at both ends for too long, not taking care of myself and ignoring all the whispers of burnout that led to my body quite literally screaming at me and I knew I couldn’t keep working the same way.
What started as a sabbatical to Bali became my catalyst for discovering a whole new world to me - the virtual assistant world. I talk about landing my first client there, and how from then to now I’ve built a thriving business that helps busy entrepreneurs, high net worth individuals and hectic families reclaim their time and reduce their mental load.
We talk about the warning signs of burnout, the importance of boundaries, the invisible “mental load” so many women carry, and the grit it takes to go from sofa-surfing to building a business that creates freedom for both clients and team members.
If you’ve ever pushed your body too far in the name of work, this conversation is a reminder that change is possible - and sometimes, it’s the hard moments that spark the brightest new paths.
About the Podcast
Join Riannon Palmer, founder of B Corp PR agency Lem‑uhn, for open, honest conversations with founders, change makers, and leaders who’ve faced tough moments and turned them into something better.
Every episode is a chance to hear real stories about the ups, downs, and turning points of their journeys. You’ll get a mix of practical lessons, personal reflections, and uplifting moments that show how challenges can spark creativity, resilience, and meaningful change - all wrapped up in feel‑good conversations that prove business can genuinely be a force for good.
The podcast has been recommended by The Telegraph as the best audio to listen to right now, and featured in The Mirror and The Know.
Find more about Lemonade Leaders podcast here
Listen to more episodes on Spotify here
Follow Riannon on Instagram here
Come and chat with me over on Instagram
