Episode 25- The Cost of Hustle: Why the 996 Culture Is Failing Us

Compound Growth

The “996” work culture — 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week — has found new life in Silicon Valley. But is working yourself to exhaustion really the key to success? In this episode, Wheeler and Colin sit down with returning guest Jessica Crowley to unpack the glorification of overwork, the myth of hustle culture, and the personal toll of tying your entire identity to your job.

They explore how the 996 mindset, originally born in China’s tech boom, has resurfaced in the U.S. startup scene — and why its effects can be devastating. From burnout and isolation to the pressure of ego and competition, the hosts reflect on the fine line between ambition and obsession. Jessica brings her expertise in burnout prevention and “life design” to explain how to build a career that serves your life, not the other way around.

This episode isn’t about rejecting hard work — it’s about redefining it. The hosts share lessons on balance, legacy, and how to create impact without sacrificing joy. Because real growth isn’t found in the grind; it’s in designing a life you actually want to live.

Find Jessica:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamoorecrowley/
SubStack: https://jessicacrowley.substack.com/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compoundgrowthpod
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CompoundGrowthPodcast
• TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@compoundgrowthpod
• Wheeler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wheeler-crowley-0a63933b/
• Colin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-walker-mba-6099a038/

Credits:
Created By: Wheeler Crowley and Colin Walker
Production Assistance: Tori Rothwell
Editing and Post-Production: Steven Sims