How This CEO Survived Burnout

Why It Matters

Saxby’s story shows that proactive boundary‑setting and tech adoption can safeguard executive health while delivering operational gains, providing a replicable roadmap for leaders confronting burnout.

Key Takeaways

• Jess set strict work‑life boundaries to prevent burnout.
• Implemented brand overhaul, refurbishing 80% of stores in 18 months.
• Uses ChatGPT to save roughly a day of work weekly.
• Emphasizes adaptive communication: treat people as they prefer.
• Relies on business coach for accountability and mental health support.

Summary

The interview centers on Jess Saxby, CEO of Banjo's Bakery Cafes, who shares how she recognized and overcame burnout while steering a family‑owned chain of over 50 stores. She details her personal routine, the pivotal decision to accept the CEO role, and the extensive brand transformation that saw 80% of locations refurbished and standardized within 18 months.

Key insights include the implementation of strict work‑life boundaries—no emails after kids’ bedtime and reduced travel—to protect her health, the adoption of ChatGPT which she estimates saves a full day of work each week, and a focus on adaptive communication, treating employees according to their preferred styles. She also credits a business coach for providing a sounding board and guidance during her burnout recovery.

Memorable quotes illustrate her journey: “I cried to him” when confronting her father about store conditions, “I can’t stop, there’s a buzz in my head” describing the burnout mindset, and “Treat people the way they want to be treated” as her core leadership mantra. These anecdotes underscore the emotional and operational challenges she faced.

The broader implication is clear: CEOs can combine technology, disciplined boundaries, and external coaching to revive personal wellbeing while driving strategic change. Jess’s experience offers a practical template for leaders aiming to prevent burnout and accelerate brand consistency in competitive retail environments.

Original Description

When Jess Saxby became the chief executive of Banjo’s Bakery Cafes, she went "hell for leather".

Taking over the family business, the new CEO was always chasing the next big thing for the chain. Until she realised she couldn't switch off.

On this week's episode, BOSS (https://www.afr.com/boss) editor Sally Patten sits down with the bakery boss to find out how Saxby overcame burnout and the boundaries she's put in place since.

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