How Do You Find Calm in the Middle of Chaos?
That’s the question I asked myself right before I sat down with Dr. Jodi Blinco for this week’s episode of The Vibe With Ky Podcast. Because if you’re like me—trying to juggle life, ADHD, anxiety, and the world just constantly doing the most—calm can feel like a luxury you can’t afford. But what if you could learn to create it on your own terms?
Watch or listen to the full episode:
YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts
Who is Dr. Jodi Blinco?
Dr. Jodi Blinco is a powerhouse. She’s the founder of The U School, ZenLeader, and Yoga Cowgirl. She’s a breakthrough coach, speaker, and educator with over two decades of experience helping people navigate change, burnout, and leadership with clarity and calm. Her new book, Inner Alchemy: Transforming Everyday Bullsht Into Sunshine*, is a straight-talking, soulful look at how to turn life’s hardest moments into something that fuels you instead of flattens you.
You can follow her on Instagram, LinkedIn, or check out her book and coaching services on her website.
Key Takeaway #1: Burnout Isn’t Just a Work Problem—It’s a Life Problem
One of the first things Jodi and I talked about was burnout. But not the kind you read about in Forbes or hear about in HR trainings. I’m talking about the kind of burnout where your brain feels fried and your body is running on fumes, even when you’re doing things you “should” love.
Jodi shared how burnout doesn’t just come from your job. It comes from constantly over-functioning, trying to meet other people’s expectations, and never giving yourself permission to just be.
“You can’t show up fully in your work or your relationships if you’re emotionally bankrupt.” – Dr. Jodi Blinco
And if you live with ADHD or anxiety like I do, that emotional bankruptcy can hit faster than you’d expect. We’re already working overtime just to regulate, organize, and function.
Key Takeaway #2: Your Energy Has ROI
Jodi introduced a concept called Energy ROI—and I’ll be honest, my ADHD brain perked up at the word “ROI.” She explained how we track our money and time, but rarely track how we spend our energy. And yet, our energy is our most valuable resource.
She broke it down into simple terms: If something constantly drains your energy with little return, it might be time to reevaluate whether it’s worth it.
Key Takeaway #3: You Don’t Need to Earn Rest
This one hit home. So many of us—especially those of us who are neurodivergent—have internalized the idea that rest is a reward for getting everything done. But Jodi reminded me that rest is a necessity, not a prize.
“You don’t have to finish the list before you take care of yourself.”
It’s simple advice, but it’s the kind that sticks. I immediately thought of all the times I’ve worked myself to the edge of a shutdown because I thought I hadn’t “earned” a break.
Key Takeaway #4: Inner Alchemy Is About Curiosity, Not Control
The title of Jodi’s book might sound mystical, but the message is super practical. Inner alchemy is about taking the mess of life and turning it into something meaningful. But instead of trying to control everything (which, by the way, doesn’t work), Jodi encourages curiosity.
Ask yourself: What am I feeling? Why am I reacting this way? What might this moment be trying to teach me?
That curiosity creates space—and space helps us respond instead of just react. For ADHDers, that space is the key to regulating before we spiral.
Quick Stats for Context:
- 77% of professionals have experienced burnout at their current job (Deloitte, 2021)
- People with ADHD are more likely to experience emotional dysregulation and burnout due to executive dysfunction (CHADD.org)
One Actionable Step:
Try an “energy audit” this week. Write down what gives you energy and what drains it. No judgment, just observation. Then ask: Can I set a boundary around something that’s draining me?
Helpful Reminders:
- You don’t have to be productive to be worthy.
- Your feelings are valid, even if they’re inconvenient.
- Calm is not a personality trait; it’s a practice.
FAQ
Q. What is Energy ROI and how do I track it?
A. Energy ROI stands for “Return on Investment” of your energy. To track it, notice how you feel before, during, and after tasks. If something consistently leaves you exhausted without any real payoff, that’s low ROI.
Q. What if I feel guilty taking breaks?
A. You’re not alone. Many of us were taught that rest equals laziness. But rest is actually a strategy for resilience. Start small. Take five minutes without guilt.
Q. Can I really transform my mindset if I have ADHD or anxiety?
A. Absolutely. It might take more intentional practice, but change is possible. Jodi’s tools help create structure and curiosity—two things that support mindset shifts for neurodivergent brains.
5 Key Takeaways:
- Burnout is a full-body, full-life experience—not just about work.
- Your energy is worth tracking, protecting, and respecting.
- Rest doesn’t need to be earned. It’s essential.
- Curiosity helps you navigate chaos without needing control.
- You are allowed to change how you respond, even if it takes time.
Final Thoughts
This episode wasn’t just inspiring—it was a full-on permission slip. To rest. To feel. To rework the rules we’ve been living by. Whether you’re drowning in to-dos or just trying to get through the day with your mental health intact, Jodi’s message is clear: You don’t have to fix everything to feel okay.
Much love. Good vibes. – Ky
