#6- Unlearning Urgency: Reclaiming Your Time After Corporate Burnout

SUMMARY In this special edition of the Within Podcast series “I Wish I Would've Known,” We sit down for a candid conversation about unlearning the toxic time constraints of corporate life and embracing a more human, flexible approach to work. Nicky reflects on her early days in recruiting under the notorious "1-24 Rule"—a rigid system where emails had to be acknowledged within one hour and resolved in 24. Though she thrived in that structure, it left a deep imprint that took years to unravel.

Now on the other side, Nicky shares how she gradually untethered from the constant pressure to respond immediately and found peace in delayed communication, autonomy over her schedule, and honoring her personal rhythms. Through stories of early morning panic calls, boundary-setting with leadership, and syncing schedules with her team (who might be walking on treadmills mid-meeting), Nikki reveals how redefining expectations can transform not just your productivity, but your well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the transition from corporate rigidity to entrepreneurial freedom.

ABOUT WITHIN Within is a podcast hosted by Nicky Wallace and Ali Payne, founders of The People Co. It explores what happens when organizations stop chasing surface-level solutions and start doing the real work from within. Each episode unpacks stories of leadership, burnout, growth, culture, and the messiness of being human at work. Whether you’re in HR, leading a team, or just rethinking how work fits into your life, Within offers a candid and refreshing look at how people-first business gets built.

Connect with them on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/nwallace515/ or www.linkedin.com/in/alipayne/ and www.linkedin.com/in/heidibuttolph/