How to Recover from Burnout: Keith Cole’s Journey Through Trauma and Faith

Burnout doesn't happen overnight - and neither does healing.

In this powerful episode of Coached Soul, Dr. Steve Hudgins welcomes Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, author, and speaker Keith Cole for an honest conversation about recovering from burnout, overcoming trauma, and finding hope through faith.

After experiencing the realities of combat in Vietnam, Keith carried the emotional weight of grief, loss, and unresolved trauma for years. Like many high achievers, he pushed forward until the hidden wounds eventually led to burnout. In this candid discussion, Keith shares how his journey through emotional exhaustion, anger, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and personal loss ultimately became a journey toward healing and purpose.

Together, Dr. Steve Hudgins and Keith explore the deep connection between trauma and burnout, why true recovery requires more than simply managing stress, and how faith, surrender, and community can play a vital role in restoring emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why unresolved trauma often leads to burnout
• The difference between coping and true healing
• How grief and emotional pain can silently affect everyday life
• Practical lessons for overcoming burnout and finding resilience
• The role of faith, hope, and purpose in long-term recovery

Whether you're feeling emotionally exhausted, navigating personal loss, supporting a loved one, or simply searching for a healthier path forward, this conversation offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope that healing is always possible.

Tune in and discover why recovering from burnout isn't about becoming stronger - it's about becoming whole.

Key Moments:

03:55 Wartime injury experience

08:50 Questioning survival and faith

12:59 Hospital stay and I and I duty

16:45 Leaving the Marine Corps

18:54 Late-night office drinking session

20:57 Reflecting on personal experiences

About the guest :

Keith Cole is a United States Marine Corps Vietnam combat veteran, retired CPA, author, and speaker dedicated to helping others overcome burnout, trauma, and life's toughest challenges. After serving in Vietnam and building a successful professional career, Keith experienced severe burnout that led him on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual renewal.

Drawing from his lived experiences, Keith shares practical insights on resilience, faith, and the importance of moving beyond self-reliance to find lasting recovery. His book, Burnout: God's Recovery Plan, combines personal stories with actionable principles to help individuals navigate stress, emotional exhaustion, and life's unexpected hardships.

Today, Keith speaks to business leaders, caregivers, veterans, and organizations, inspiring others to embrace hope, healing, and purpose through authentic storytelling and faith-driven wisdom.

How to connect Keith : https://www.RecoveryByFaith.com

About Coached Soul™:

Coached Soul™ is an empowering podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Dr. Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/