The “most stressed” wellness CEO, with Calm’s David Ko

The podcast explores the complexities of mental health in the workplace, particularly focusing on the role of leadership and the impact of technology. David Ko, former CEO of Calm, discusses his decision to step down to address mental health challenges on a larger scale, emphasizing the interconnectedness of employers, payers, and policy. He highlights the prevalence of stress among CEOs, citing a study where nearly half considered stepping down due to stress. The conversation touches on the paradox of using phones for mental health relief, the impact of AI, and the importance of preventative mental health measures. Ko advocates for vulnerability in leadership and micro-breaks during the day, distinguishing between good stress that drives purpose and bad stress that leads to burnout.