In this powerful and joy-sparking episode, I’m joined by Kari Esmail—also known as Kari the Fun Coach and bestselling author of Fun Because: How to Succeed Without the Hustle. Together, we dive into what it really means to dismantle hustle culture, recalibrate what’s possible, and reclaim joy as a core tool for success. Kari shares her signature framework—the Pyramid of Fun—and breaks down how connection, play, and creativity can literally rewire your nervous system, collapse timelines, and unlock wildly aligned growth in your life and business.

Whether you're a high-achieving woman navigating burnout, an entrepreneur craving more flow, or someone who’s tired of saving joy for “someday,” this episode is your permission slip. We explore how small shifts in how we dress, interact, and approach our daily routines can radically change the energy we carry—and the opportunities we attract. Kari’s science-backed insights and vibrant storytelling make it clear: your joy isn’t frivolous—it’s foundational.

Tune in to learn how to fun-ify your life, shift your default patterns, and start creating from overflow instead of obligation. It’s time to stop waiting to enjoy your life and start living like your wildest dreams are already unfolding—because when you lead with joy, they are.

In this episode, we explore:

• Kari’s journey from burnout and hustle to joy-driven entrepreneurship
• The hidden cost of hustle culture—and how to break free from it
• The science behind joy as a powerful productivity tool
• Kari’s Pyramid of Fun framework for lasting success and fulfillment
• The 3 Elements of Fun: connection, play, and creativity—and how to integrate them daily
• The 8 Play Personality Types (based on research by Dr. Stuart Brown) and how to identify your personal play style
• How high-achieving women can recalibrate their nervous systems for more energy and ease
• The mindset shift from “earning joy” to living in joy
• Tangible practices to infuse more play, presence, and color into your everyday life

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Connect with Kari:

• Website: karithefuncoach.com
• Instagram: @karithefuncoach
• Buy Kari's book, Fun Because
• Download the free “Fun as a Strategy” Breeze Guide
• Join the International Fun Side Community

Connect with Emily:

• Instagram: @emilyreuschel
• Facebook: Emily Reuschel
• LinkedIn: Emily Reuschel
• Email List: join here
• Website: www.EmilyReuschel.com

Resources and Links:

• Sign up here to get the inside scoop to my book writing journey!
• Book me as a speaker for your next event - email inquiries to emilyreuschel@gmail.com or schedule a call here
• Wild & Waking – Produced by Jill Carr Podcasting | Learn More