How Good Can It Get

How Good Can It Get is a podcast for ambitious leaders, founders, and creatives who are ready to move beyond burnout, hustle culture, and surface-level success.

Hosted by Bree Johnson — former law firm executive turned leadership thinker and creator — this show explores what it really takes to heal work wounds, reclaim personal power, and build a life where success and fulfillment coexist.

Through thoughtful conversations and solo reflections, each episode examines the intersection of work, wealth, worth, and well-being, offering grounded insights on leadership, identity, nervous system regulation, career transitions, and the hidden emotional costs of modern ambition.

This is not productivity advice or performative self-help.
It’s a deeper inquiry into how we work, why we strive, and what it means to lead with clarity, integrity, and self-trust.

If you’re navigating burnout, redefining success, or questioning the systems you’ve been asked to perform within, this podcast offers a quieter, wiser path forward.

Tune in weekly and subscribe to explore how good life — and leadership — can truly get.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM

Episodes

Wednesday Oct 29, 2025

Guest Michelle Ghassemi helps Bree explore the themes of identity death, personal growth, and self-sabotage in the context of entrepreneurship. Michelle shares her journey of transitioning from the beauty industry to becoming a business mentor for women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery, resilience, and the tools needed to navigate significant life changes.
 
They discuss the challenges of self-sabotage, the necessity of quiet reflection, and the importance of building a supportive community. Michelle also offers insights into her business assessment tool designed to help entrepreneurs evaluate their current situation and find clarity in their business journey.
 
Takeaways
Identity death can feel like grief or panic.
Personal growth often requires stepping into uncertainty.
Self-sabotage is a common challenge during transitions.
Building a personal brand is about ownership and authenticity.
Quiet reflection is essential for self-discovery.
Patience is crucial when navigating life changes.
Understanding triggers for self-sabotage helps in overcoming it.
Creating daily rituals can support mental well-being.
It's important to control what you can in your life and business.
Community support can ease the journey of entrepreneurship.
Connect with Guest Michelle Ghassemi
Free masterclass monthly "5 Metrics That Build a 7 Figure Brand": https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/KHCK7Ra1S-GvXuVDpP9Rfw
Insta: @opsandgrowthmentor
Biz Assessment: https://calendly.com/michelle-ghassemi/bizassessmentcall
 

Monday Oct 27, 2025

Bree talks about Gold Medal Syndrome as a way to describe how we all often focus on outcomes and miss out on the good stuff  - particularly the 'messy middle' - where growth and effort occur. Outcomes aren't often as they seem. We're rarely as happy as we think we'll be once we achieve that hoped for outcome and contentment right where you are is an option rather than solely aiming for accolades and achievements.
 
Takeaways
Life is about how you lived the dash.
The messy middle is where growth happens.
Achievements are byproducts of effort and process.
Focus on the journey, not just the destination.
Gold medals are not the only measure of success.
Embrace the challenges in the middle of life.
Personal growth comes from navigating difficulties.
Attention should be on the process, not just outcomes.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Wednesday Oct 15, 2025

Bree Johnson hosts Rhonda Parmer to explore innovative leadership coaching approaches, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, discovering personal strengths, and the impact of burnout on leaders. Rhonda shares her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate challenges in leadership, particularly regarding gender dynamics and the necessity of intentionality in preventing burnout. The discussion also highlights practical tips for managing time and health, ultimately reinforcing the idea that effective leadership is rooted in understanding oneself and others.
Takeaways
Rhonda's journey into coaching began with a desire to help others discover their strengths.
Self-awareness is crucial for leaders to understand their unique contributions.
Curiosity in leadership can uncover underlying issues rather than jumping to conclusions.
Building a leadership bench is essential for organizational growth and sustainability.
Burnout often stems from a lack of self-care and awareness of personal limits.
Gender dynamics in leadership require open communication and understanding.
Intentionality in managing time and health is key to preventing burnout.
Personal experiences can shape a leader's approach to coaching and support.
Practical strategies like blocking time and setting boundaries can enhance productivity.
Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth.
Connect with Guest Rhonda Parmer
Website: www.rhondaparmer.com 
 
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook
 

Monday Oct 13, 2025

Bree Johnson shares her excitement about being selected for a TED Talk and dives into the paradox of choice in personal and professional life, particularly the decision to stay in a comfortable situation or take a leap into the unknown. Bree emphasizes the importance of embracing change and the benefits of stepping out of one's comfort zone, while also highlighting the value of depth work and commitment to personal growth. She encourages listeners to explore their desires for novelty versus depth in their lives and to make daily choices that align with their goals.
 
Takeaways
She shares her excitement about being selected for a TED Talk.
The concept of paradox is introduced, highlighting the coexistence of good and bad experiences.
Bree discusses the choice between staying in a comfortable job or taking a leap into the unknown.
She emphasizes the benefits of being on the edge of change and trying new things.
The importance of recognizing the lack of control over outcomes is highlighted.
Bree addresses the fear of judgment from others when making life changes.
She encourages listeners to consider the benefits of depth work in their current roles.
Bree suggests a daily choice between seeking novelty or committing to depth.
Listeners are invited to experiment with small changes in their daily lives.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Wednesday Oct 01, 2025

"Most women don't lack drive - they lack direction."
Bree Johnson and Beverly Smith discuss effective strategies for navigating career transitions, particularly in the context of mid, senior, and executive-level job searches. They explore the importance of understanding one's strengths, crafting compelling resumes that resonate with both AI and human recruiters, and the nuances of working with recruiters.
Beverly emphasizes the need for tailored resumes and the significance of showcasing accomplishments rather than just responsibilities. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of job searching in the age of AI and the importance of personal branding.
Takeaways
Your career path doesn't have to be linear.
Understanding your strengths is crucial for career transitions.
Resumes should highlight accomplishments, not just responsibilities.
AI is changing how resumes are evaluated; format matters.
Tailor your resume for each specific job application.
Working with a recruiter requires finding the right fit.
Personal experiences can enhance your job search.
Be open to evolving your career path based on interests.
Networking and referrals are key in the job search process.
Connect with Guest Beverly Smith
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverlydsmith/
3 Steps to Reinvent Your Career at Any Age Guide: https://e442-beverly.systeme.io/bree-johnson
Website: https://cssar.com/
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Ep. 104 Why I Went Quiet...

Monday Sep 29, 2025

Monday Sep 29, 2025

Bree reflects on her summer of silence and disconnection from productivity, sharing personal experiences and insights gained during this time. She discusses the importance of being present in life, the lessons learned from stepping back from social media and productivity, and the significance of prioritizing joy and pleasure. Bree encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, identify areas where they may be running on autopilot, and embrace joy as a vital part of existence.
Takeaways
I was fried out, not burned out.
Chase your joy as hard as you can.
What if I stop all that motion?
My life is much more interesting when I pay attention.
Autopilot ran the show more than I care to admit.
Savor what you love to do.
Joy and pleasure are the point.
I'm worthy of joy and pleasure.
Where have you let joy ride in the backseat?
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Tuesday Jul 01, 2025

Bree discusses the resistance that often hinders individuals from identifying their true desires. She reflects on astrological events that prompted her to evaluate her own aspirations and the challenges that arise when seeking financial freedom.
 
She shares how shifting timelines created the importance of allowing oneself to sit in discomfort while exploring new values and life designs. She encourages listeners to engage in activities that bring joy and to reflect on what truly matters in their lives, especially during moments of unplugged time with family and friends.
 
Takeaways
Resistance can hinder our ability to identify true desires.
Shifting timelines can create opportunities for new beginnings.
It's important to allow time for self-discovery and alignment.
Finding joy in small activities can reveal deeper desires.
Unplugged time can help clarify what brings happiness.
Awareness of joyful activities can guide life design.
Sitting in discomfort is part of the growth process.
Engaging with loved ones can spark insights into personal aspirations.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Tuesday Jun 17, 2025

Bree Johnson discusses recalibrating her nervous system and mindset after a period of intense activity and achievement. She reflects on the discomfort of not having a to-do list and the importance of being present and content in the moment.
 
Bree introduces five metrics she is tracking this summer to cultivate a more intentional and fulfilling life, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and accountability in achieving personal growth and connection with loved ones.
 
Takeaways
Recalibrating the nervous system is essential after intense periods of activity.
Contentment can feel uncomfortable for those driven by achievement.
Tracking metrics can help foster intentional living and mindfulness.
Spending time in daylight positively impacts mood and energy.
Being present in moments enhances the quality of life and relationships.
Hugs are beneficial for emotional regulation and connection.
Meditation and breath work deepen self-awareness and personal growth.
Reading books can serve as an antidote to negative news and social media.
Intentional living requires self-reflection and setting personal goals.
Creating metrics can help hold oneself accountable for desired changes.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

Thursday Jun 12, 2025

Host Bree Johnson is joined by guest Emily Bronaugh to discuss the importance of creating people-centric workplaces, emphasizing the need for trust, collaboration, and effective leadership. Emily shares her journey and insights on how to redesign work cultures that prioritize autonomy and respect.
 
They explore the balance between vulnerability and authority in leadership, the significance of systems and processes for delegation, and the future of work in light of technological advancements. The discussion highlights the impact of leadership on team dynamics and the necessity of understanding one's 'why' in guiding effective leadership practices.
 
Takeaways
Emily Bronaugh helps small business owners build people-first teams.
Leadership should be collaborative, not authoritative.
Trust is essential for effective team dynamics.
Vulnerability in leadership fosters better relationships.
Systems and processes can enhance delegation and creativity.
Meetings should focus on collaboration and problem-solving.
Quality of work is more important than quantity of hours.
The impact of leadership extends beyond the workplace.
Understanding your 'why' is crucial for effective leadership.
Creating a positive work culture benefits everyone involved.
Connect with Guest Emily Bronaugh
Emily's Permission to Lead podcast: https://redcircle.com/shows/5800851c-c71d-44f9-a4df-10797174ecc9Bi-weekly Mompreneur Burnout Breakthrough free hot seat coaching call: https://www.worthofwork.com/live-webinar/mbb/registerList of Interview Questions: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/interviewquestionsLeadership Journey Quiz: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/quizFree Whom to Hire Identifier: https://www.worthofwork.com/f/whom-to-hire-identifierSchedule a 1:1 Call with me: https://calendly.com/worthofwork/consultation?share_attribution=expiring_link

Monday Jun 09, 2025

In this celebratory 100th episode of 'How Good Can It Get?', Bree Johnson reflects on her journey of podcasting, the growth she has experienced, and the importance of following one's spark. She shares insights on personal transitions, the global community that has formed around the podcast, and expresses gratitude to her listeners. Bree emphasizes the value of authenticity, presence, and the joy that comes from pursuing one's passions, encouraging others to embrace their own journeys.
 
Takeaways
This podcast represents following a spark of curiosity.
Listeners are tuning in from 48 countries.
The podcast covers topics from leadership to self-care.
Bree shares her personal transitions over the past 15 months.
It's important to follow your own spark, even if unclear.
The journey may be messy, but persistence is key.
The podcast is about presence and authenticity.
Bree encourages listeners to keep asking how good it can get.
Connect with Host Bree Johnson
Insta: @breejohnsonofficial
Website: www.executiveunschool.com
Download Your Wellbeing Playbook: bit.ly/wellbeingplaybook

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