How do I know if I am burned out or just stressed out?

How do I know if I am burned out or just stressed out?

Author: Heath Shearon April 9, 2026 Duration: 59:56

This Week In Insurance Town, we uncover practical insights and inspiring stories with Chelsea Bell Carpenter as she shares her journey through the insurance industry, mental health strategies, and the importance of intentional living to combat burnout. This conversation empowers listeners to redefine success, build confidence, and prioritize well-being amidst today's fast-paced world.

  • Chelsea's diverse insurance career and lessons learned
  • Recognizing and managing burnout in a hyper-connected society
  • Strategies for building confidence and resilience
  • The importance of boundaries, alone time, and intentional activities
  •  Generational shifts in attitudes toward work, health, and life balance
  •  Practical tools to reconnect with yourself and reduce stress

 

In this episode You will also hear... 

 

  • Chelsea's unexpected journey from insurance rookie to industry leader
  • How wildfires and claims transformed her understanding of service and empathy
  • The true definition of burnout and how to identify its symptoms
  • Why organizations play a role in employee burnout and how individuals can take control
  • Simple somatic tools to calm your nervous system during stressful moments
  • The cultural shift away from "busy as a badge of honor" toward conscious living
  • Tips for carving out quality family time and developing passions outside of work
  • Addressing fears of AI and automation: embracing technology as an ally
  • The importance of vulnerability and authentic leadership

 

Timestamps
00:00 - Welcome to the episode and introduction of Chelsea Bell Carpenter
 06:29 - Wildfires, service, and the human side of insurance claims
 16:22 - Developing confidence and overcoming fear of failure
 21:59 - Managing stress responses in our technology-driven world
 24:29 - Building stronger family and personal boundaries
 26:42 - The impact of social media and constant connectivity
 34:52 - How to distinguish between stress and burnout
 37:14 - Strategies for organization, work-life balance, and hobbies
 42:13 - The power of solitude and true rest in a busy society
 46:42 - Addressing generational differences and future outlooks on burnout
 53:33 - Organizational vs individual responsibility for burnout
 55:57 - How to work with Chelsea for consulting, speaking, or events

 

Derek Streep's Comedic Bit — Humorous take on taking breaks

 

Connect with Chelsea

 Instagram

 Twitter

 LinkedIn

 

Final note:Prioritize your health, set boundaries, and reframe what it means to be successful. Remember, taking time for yourself is not a luxury it's a necessity. You are worthy of space, rest, and peace.

Sponsors:
Canopy Connect 
MAV
1Fort


Heath Shearon has spent years navigating every corner of the insurance industry, and in Insurance Town, he acts as your guide through its often complex landscape. Think of each episode as a casual, informative conversation held on the front porch of a town built entirely on insurance knowledge. Heath, who jokingly refers to himself as the Mayor, doesn’t just lecture; he brings in the many friends and colleagues he’s met over his career for genuine discussions that break down real-world scenarios. You’ll hear practical advice, behind-the-scenes insights, and straightforward explanations designed for both industry newcomers and seasoned professionals. This isn't about dry theory-it's about the tangible how-to and the why behind common business and personal coverage questions. The tone is welcoming and grounded in experience, set to a bluesy soundtrack courtesy of Daddy Long Legs. Tune into this podcast for a unique blend of business education and relatable storytelling that makes the intricacies of insurance feel approachable and even engaging.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Insurance Town
Podcast Episodes
Lazy River Files Part 3 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:41
In this weeks episode we release more from the Lazy River, Casey Nelson's idea that has been such an amazing addition to the show. I appreciate all of the feedback I have gotten from these, so I will leak a few more out…
What Are the Secrets to Long-Term Success in Insurance? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:18
In this episode, Jason Peacock shares invaluable insights from his nearly three-decade career in insurance, emphasizing the importance of relationships, niching, and strategic follow-up. Whether you're just starting out…
Choose Africa - Re-Visit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:51
In this weeks episode of Insurance Town, The Mayor Heath Shearon, sits down with Valerie Bowden, founder of Crdle, to discuss the evolving landscape of outsourcing and the unique opportunities Africa presents. Valerie sh…
Are You Truly Connecting with Your Clients or Just Talking at Them? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:07
You know that room in grandmas house that was that room that you didn’t sit in the furniture, you didnt touch anything? It was just pretty and you gotten threatened every time you went into that room?In this weeks episod…
More from the Lazy River Files [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:20
It's another episiode of Insurance town from the Lazy river!! With Ben Morrow, Brenden Corr, Marques Ogden, Jessica, Casey Nelson, Caleb Cramer, etc. Its FunSponsorsCanopy Connect MAVGoli= Go.Goli.com/Mayor
How to stop being overlooked! (warning this one is High Octane) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:17
In this episode of Insurance Town, the Mayor sits down with his good friend, Emily Merola. Emily Merola is an executive presence expert, speaker, and founder of The Blazer Society who helps leaders go from overlooked to…
The “hold my beer” of insurance ! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:52
This week in Insurance town the Mayor sits down with Sarah Koolhof, a dynamic insurance professional whose journey spans theater, rugby, and underwriting. Discover how embracing discomfort and versatility has shaped her…