Elizabeth Svoboda

What if working harder isn't the answer? Award-winning science writer Elizabeth Svoboda joins The Premise to discuss her new book, The Art of Pacing: A Guide to Balancing Short-Term Demands with Long-Term Thriving. Together, Jeniffer and Chad Thompson explore America's hustle culture, why traditional time management often fails, and how learning to manage your energy—not just your schedule—can help you avoid burnout and build a more sustainable, fulfilling life. Drawing from science, elite athletics, psychology, and personal experience, Elizabeth shares practical strategies for recognizing burnout, aligning your work with your natural energy rhythms, and giving yourself permission to rest without guilt. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, healthcare worker, executive, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you thrive for the long haul. In This Episode  Why America's "always-on" work culture is pushing so many people toward burnout   The difference between time management and energy management  What elite athletes can teach us about sustainable performance   Why rigid productivity systems often backfire   Recognizing the warning signs of burnout before it's too late   How heart rate variability (HRV) can help you monitor stress and recovery   The science behind resonant breathing and calming your nervous system   Why taking longer breaks actually improves productivity   Breaking the cycle of deadline-driven work and chronic procrastination   The importance of building rest into your life—not earning it   Lessons the U.S. can learn from France's approach to work-life balance   How pacing creates more creativity, resilience, and long-term success  Key Takeaways  Productivity isn't about doing more—it's about managing your energy wisely.   Burnout doesn't happen overnight, and recovery often takes longer than we realize.   Your most important work should happen when your energy is naturally highest.   Rest is not laziness—it's an essential part of high performance.   Sustainable success comes from pacing yourself, not constantly pushing harder.