Around the Ladder: What If the Ladder Isn’t the Answer? With Shabnam Irilian

In this episode of Around the Ladder, host Erika Steinberg sits down with Shabnam Irilian for an honest conversation about what happens when a career that once felt right starts to feel misaligned. Shabnam shares her experience of stepping away from a successful, linear career after realizing that burnout, exhaustion, and a lack of fulfillment had taken over. Together, they explore the emotional weight of leaving behind a path that others may see as successful, even when it no longer feels sustainable from the inside. The conversation goes beyond career change and into the deeper stories we tell ourselves about work, worth, and success. Shabnam opens up about the beliefs that kept her going for so long, the idea that hard work would always be rewarded, that gratitude should keep her from asking for more, and that being dependable meant carrying more than she should have. Erika draws out thoughtful reflections on burnout, identity, and the pressure many high-performing professionals, especially eldest daughters and first-generation women, carry throughout their careers. They also discuss the shift toward building a portfolio of income instead of relying on a single job or title. Shabnam talks about creating a more intentional life through consulting, board work, teaching, and creative projects, while Erika reflects on the importance of choosing work that feels aligned and sustainable. The episode closes with a powerful reminder that career clarity often begins by paying attention to what does not feel right, asking better questions, and giving yourself permission to choose differently. Connect with Shabnam:  LinkedIn:   / shabnamirilian   Website: https://www.shabnamirilian.com/