Beyond Burnout: Coming Home to Yourself with Nicole Lilly

Episode notes

In the latest episode of Inclusive Cyber, I had the honor of speaking with Nicole Lilly, founder of Deeply Devoted Lilly, somatic coach, and former corporate wellness strategist. We didn’t talk tech. We talked about what tech often ignores—how emotional wellbeing, nervous system regulation, and inner safety are critical to sustainable performance in high-pressure fields like cybersecurity. Nicole opens up about: * Growing up in a culture where worth was tied to appearance—and how she reclaimed her health on *her* terms * Her corporate wellness career and the blind spots she noticed in how we treat mental health at work * Why we don’t ask for help, and how self-leadership shifted her relationship with discipline * What it means to "come home to yourself" and build a life rooted in compassion, curiosity, and clarity This conversation reminded me that no productivity hack can replace the inner work required to truly show up—at work or at home. One of Nicole’s reflections that stuck with me: “There’s a difference between what you want to be and who you want to be.” If you’re in cybersecurity—or any fast-paced field—this episode is for you. It’s not about slowing down.