This week we’re joined by Janine McManus - former fashion buyer, therapeutic coach and founder of We Beam - for a powerful and honest conversation about burnout, identity and redefining success.
Janine began her career as a print designer before carving her way into buying at Burton, later spending formative years at ASOS during its meteoric rise. She shares what it was like to be part of that high-energy growth phase - the creativity, the camaraderie, the culture that made it feel like anything was possible.
But alongside the highs, Janine speaks candidly about the pressures many buyers will recognise: relentless deadlines, constant decision-making, long hours and the quiet normalisation of stress and burnout.
We explore what happens when the role you once loved no longer serves you - and how Janine made the brave decision to step away from retail to retrain in hypnotherapy and transformational coaching. Today, through We Beam, she supports individuals navigating stress, career crossroads and the search for something more sustainable.
This episode is a thoughtful reflection on identity beyond your job title, the power of community in high-performance cultures, and why investing in people - not just productivity - is what truly drives long-term success.
Three Key Takeaways
1) Your job title is not your identity
In fast-paced industries like retail, it’s easy for your role to become who you are. Janine reminds us of the importance of reconnecting with your values, your energy and your personal definition of success - beyond promotions or prestige.
2) Culture and community fuel performance
ASOS thrived in its early years because of belief, creativity and genuine team connection. When businesses prioritise people and belonging, productivity follows. When they prioritise output alone, burnout isn’t far behind.
3) Burnout isn’t “just part of the job”
Retail buying has long normalised overwork and high stress. But accepting that narrative limits both people and businesses. Seeking support - whether through coaching, therapy or community - is a strength, not a weakness.
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