278: Sustainable Ambition: Shaping Life and Work on Your Terms with Kathy Oneto

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Written By Tammy Gooler Loeb

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278: Sustainable Ambition: Shaping Life and Work on Your Terms with Kathy Oneto

When Kathy Oneto returned to the podcast, I was thrilled—not just because she's an insightful coach and strategist, but because she’s now an author. Her new book, Sustainable Ambition: How to Prioritize What Matters to Thrive in Life and Work, is a reflection of years of thought, practice, and deep questioning. In our conversation, we talked about the inspiration and process behind the book, but more than that, we explored what it means to truly honor your ambitions—without burning out.

What stood out to me is Kathy’s gentle but powerful challenge to the idea that ambition has to be synonymous with hustle. She invites us to define ambition more broadly, to include things like becoming a great parent, being creative, or even being a better sleeper. These are not just side notes to our careers—they’re life ambitions. And they deserve our attention, too.

One of my favorite parts of the discussion was about the creative process behind the book. Kathy shared how pacing, self-compassion, and trusting the process allowed her to write something meaningful without compromising her well-being. She didn’t write the book in a frenzy—she made it a sustainable ambition itself. That kind of alignment is what I hope more of us can claim in our work and lives.

We also touched on how slowing down—even just for half a day—can bring clarity and realignment. Kathy reminded me how important it is to create space for intentional reflection, especially in a world that often celebrates constant busyness. This book and our conversation together are invitations to do just that: pause, reflect, and make thoughtful choices.

I’m so excited for Sustainable Ambition to be out in the world (June 10th!). Whether you're contemplating a career shift, nurturing a creative project, or simply looking for a more integrated way of living, this book offers both inspiration and practical tools. I hope you’ll pick up a copy, and I hope this episode inspires you to pursue your ambitions—in a way that sustains you from the inside out.

In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

  • Why it's okay to make your own idea of success: You don’t have to follow what others say. What matters most is what feels right and good to you.

  • How going slow can help you do better: Taking your time lets you think clearly, feel less stressed, and enjoy the work you're doing.

  • Why life goals are just as important as school or work: Wanting to be a better friend, have fun with hobbies, or sleep more are all great goals to have.

  • How asking yourself “why” can help you make better choices: When you pause to think before acting, you can choose what you want, not just what others expect.

  • How simple tools can help you reach your goals: Kathy shares fun and easy exercises in her book to help you figure out what you want and how to get there.

Learn more about Kathy:

Interested in individual or group coaching with Tammy?  Learn more about her coaching service.

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Affiliate Links: Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links above are “affiliate links”. This means that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products and services I use personally and believe will add value to my listeners. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

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About Tammy, host of
Work from the inside out

Prior to establishing her practice, Tammy held a variety of positions in mental health services, higher education administration, public policy analysis and fundraising. Her practical knowledge and experience in organizational development, program management and business operations builds a relatable relationship with clients striving for higher performance results.

Tammy Gooler Loeb
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277: You're the Boss: Own Your Strengths and Lead with Intention with Sabina Nawaz