Career Change & Business Advice for Women | Second Act Success Podcast

Welcome to the Second Act Success Career Podcast! I'm your host, Shannon Russell, and this is the first in a four-part Business Brainstorm Mini-Series. Are you ready to quit your nine-to-five job and start your own business? If you’re feeling stuck in your current role and dreaming of becoming your own boss, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we’ll dive into how to plan your exit strategy from your current job to ensure a smooth and confident transition. You’ll learn how to assess your skills, understand your financial needs, and come up with a viable business idea. We’ll also discuss the importance of timing your exit and how to manage the emotional aspects of leaving a long-term job.

Join me as I share practical tips and strategies to help you build the foundation for your new business while still working your nine-to-five. Plus, I’ll provide insights on creating your brand identity and planning your marketing strategy.

Don’t forget to sign up for our free Business Brainstorm Mini-Bootcamp happening from July 30th to August 1st at secondactsuccess.co/brainstorm. You’ll get two one-hour online workshops and a live Q&A session, plus a free business startup checklist to help you plan your next move.

Tune in, get inspired, and start your journey toward Second Act Success! If you enjoy this episode, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode.

SHOW NOTES:
https://secondactsuccess.co/152

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

Ready to learn more about the powers of LinkedIn and how content marketing can change your journey to second act success? Join Shannon and her talented guest Annette Richmond for Episode #151 of the Second Act Success Career Podcast. Annette is a seasoned content marketing strategist who shares her unique journey from writing for magazines to becoming a LinkedIn expert. 

Discover invaluable insights as Annette discusses the unexpected tasks that come with dream jobs and how she transitioned her skills into the digital marketing realm. Learn practical tips on how to leverage LinkedIn for your business, create compelling content, and build a robust online presence.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a service provider, or someone looking to enhance your online visibility, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/151

Connect with Annette
linkedin.com/in/annetterichmond
blackdogmarketingstrategies.com/consultations-coaching/
tiktok.com/@annetteadvises

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

Join us on the Second Act Success Career Podcast as we dive into the inspiring journey of Jessica Bowser, who transitioned from being an elementary school teacher to a nonprofit executive, and eventually found her calling as a successful podcaster. In this episode, Jessica shares her story of navigating through career changes, overcoming bureaucratic challenges in the workplace, and discovering her passion for outdoor recreation. Learn how she turned her pandemic project into the thriving podcast- Virginia Outdoor Adventures, built a supportive community, and created a business that aligns with her values and lifestyle. Tune into Episode #150 for valuable insights on embracing career change, following your passion, and making a meaningful impact in your community.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/150

Connect with Jessica Bowser:

Website/Podcast

Instagram

Facebook

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, we welcome sisters Kelly Fox and Jessica Colarco, the dynamic duo behind the Chasing Brighter Podcast. Join us as we dive into their incredible journey from successful corporate careers to becoming business owners, and now advocating for women's empowerment and personal growth through their podcast. Learn how Kelly and Jessica navigated major career pivots, overcame personal challenges, and ultimately found fulfillment in entrepreneurship. Discover their insights on balancing professional ambitions with personal life, the power of storytelling, and their mission to uplift and inspire women everywhere through their podcast. Whether you're considering a career change or seeking motivation to follow your dreams, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and heartfelt stories.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/149

Connect with Kelly and Jessica:
BLOG: https://www.chasingbrighter.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/chasingbrighter/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/chasingbrighter/ 

 TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@chasingbrighter
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1zQPBxtgx4PwDCcRkUCghA

*Win swag from The Chasing Brighter Podcast by following @chasingbrighter and @secondactsuccess on Instagram and let Chasing Brighter know your favorite part of this conversation. Good luck!

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell dives into the dynamic world of virtual assistance with virtual assistant coach and trainer, Tracey D'Aviero. Tracey has over 20 years of experience, and she shares her inspiring journey from a corporate office working as a system analyst in the hospitality industry to becoming a leading VA coach and trainer. Discover how she transitioned to remote work before it was mainstream, built a successful business, and now helps others do the same. Whether you're considering a career as a virtual assistant or seeking to optimize your business with remote support, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in to Episode #148 to learn the essentials of thriving in the VA industry and how foundational business principles can guide your success.

Key Takeaway:

• The virtual assistant industry offers flexible and valuable opportunities for both service providers and business owners, rooted in solid business practices and adaptability to remote work environments.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/148

Connect with Tracey D'Aviero:
https://www.traceydaviero.com/

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell delves into the transformative power of personal branding during career transitions. Shannon discusses how to create a personal brand that highlights your unique skills, experiences, and personality, making you stand out in a competitive job market. From establishing credibility in a new industry to showcasing transferable skills and building a robust professional network, Shannon provides actionable steps and expert insights to help you craft a compelling personal brand story.

Plus, don't miss out on details about the upcoming BrandHer Workshop for an in-depth exploration and personalized guidance on mastering your personal brand.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/147

Register for the BrandHer Workshop - Week of June 24th!

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Lisa Morton, a veteran in the interior design industry with a fascinating career journey. Lisa began her career designing opulent interiors for multimillion-dollar private jets, a dream job that ultimately led to severe anxiety and burnout. Lisa candidly shares how this challenging period inspired her to pivot towards a more holistic approach in interior design, focusing on wellness and Feng Shui.

Discover how Lisa's personal struggles with mental health and wellness guided her to create spaces that support and nurture. Learn practical tips for transforming your workspace and home to enhance your well-being and productivity. Whether you're looking for a career change or simply wanting to make your living environment more harmonious, Lisa’s insights into holistic interior design will inspire and empower you.

Lisa is the founder of Pure Living With Lisa Morton and host of the Feng Shui Living Podcast

Tune in to hear Lisa's incredible second act success story on Episode #146, from high-stress luxury jet design to creating serene, supportive spaces that promote health and happiness.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/146

Connect with Lisa Morton:
https://www.purelivingwithlisamorton.com/
https://fengshuiliving.buzzsprout.com/
https://www.instagram.com/purelivingwithlisamorton
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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

From Foreign Service to Fitness: Heike Yates’ Inspiring Midlife Transformation | Ep #145

In this captivating episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Heike Yates, a dynamic midlife fitness coach with over 35 years of experience. Heike shares her extraordinary journey from her early dreams in Germany to moving to the United States and building a successful career in the fitness industry. Discover how Heike transitioned from working for the Foreign Service in Washington, D.C., to becoming a personal trainer, bodybuilder, and the founder of her own fitness empire, Pursue Your Spark. Heike discusses the importance of health and fitness in midlife, her passion for helping others, and the challenges she overcame, including adapting to hearing loss in her fitness career. Tune in to Episode #145 of the Second Act Success Career Podcast for an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and pursuing your passion at any age. Whether you’re considering a career change or seeking motivation to improve your health, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/145

Connect with Heike Yates:
https://instagram.com/heikeyates/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/heike-yates/
https://www.tiktok.com/@heikeyates
https://www.facebook.com/pursueyourspark
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQIeOesGLGAOD5RhI2KYjcA
Podcasts - https://heikeyates.com/featured-podcasts/

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

Trusting Your Gut: The Secret to Navigating Career Changes with Confidence | Ep #144

Are you feeling stuck in your career and unsure of your next move? Join career transition coach Shannon Russell to learn how trusting your gut can help you make the career change you want! In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, Shannon delves into the 7 ways trusting your gut can lead to clarity and confidence in your career transition journey. From authentic alignment to accelerating decision-making, discover seven key strategies for harnessing the wisdom of your intuition as you navigate the path to your second act. Don't miss out on valuable insights and practical tips to help you make meaningful career decisions with conviction. Tune in now to Episode #144 of the Second Act Success Career Podcast now!

SHOW NOTES:
https://secondactsuccess.co/144

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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn

Mental Health Advocate, Author, and Mom - Meet Stacy Ross | Ep #143

Join host Shannon Russell in this poignant episode of the Second Act Success Podcast as she sits down with author Stacy Ross to delve into her deeply personal memoir, "Searching For Slippers."

Stacy, a former marketing professional turned writer, opens up about her journey from corporate life to the challenging yet rewarding path of motherhood. She candidly shares her experiences raising a child with borderline personality disorder, shedding light on the emotional rollercoaster, the struggles, and the moments of resilience that define her story.

Stacy discusses the unexpected pivot in her career during the pandemic, which led her to finally pursue her long-held dream of writing her memoir. She shares insights into her collaboration with her publisher and the transformative process of turning her raw experiences into a compelling narrative.

Stacy reflects on the themes of acceptance, resilience, and finding lightness in the midst of darkness. The title of her memoir, "Searching For Slippers," serves as a poignant metaphor for the elusive quest for peace and normalcy in the face of life's challenges.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of parenthood, mental illness, or embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Join us as we celebrate Stacy's courage, vulnerability, and the power of storytelling to inspire hope and healing.

SHOW NOTES
https://secondactsuccess.co/143

Connect with Stacy:
https://stacyrossspeaks.com/
Facebook
Instagram
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Ready to Start Your Second Act?
Thinking about changing careers or starting a business? Let's map out your next steps.

→ Book Your Free Second Act Strategy Call

More From Shannon:

📖 Grab Shannon's Book, Start Your Second Act
🎤 Watch Shannon's TEDx Talk
📥 Download Free Resources
➡️ Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn