Sabbatical Stories

To kick off Season 4 of Sabbatical Stories, Sophia Mikelionis shares her journey from high-performing finance leader to speaker and facilitator helping women lead with clarity, capacity and sustainable power.

After years of being celebrated for performance while privately running on empty, Sophia made the decision to take a career break and sabbatical not because she lacked ambition, but because burnout had become unsustainable.

We explore what happens when success on paper no longer feels aligned, how hustle culture quietly erodes identity, and why stepping away can be the most strategic leadership move you make.

We dive into:

• The moment she realised high performance was masking burnout

• Why a career break became a leadership decision not an escape

• How hustle culture disconnects women from their identity

• Small, strategic habit shifts that rebuild energy and capacity

• Setting boundaries without sacrificing ambition

• The emotional reality of transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship

• Navigating reintegration after a sabbatical

• Leading with presence instead of productivity

• Why self-leadership is the foundation of sustainable success

Timestamps

to follow

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• The Power of Sabbaticals: Ritual & Renewal with Nele Vandersmissen

• Discovering Inner Wisdom Through a Career Break: Danielle Dacunha-Howarth’s Sabbatical Journey

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

Guest bio: Sophia is a former finance leader who after living the cycle of overdelivering and burnout, learned to lead differently and now teaches other women to do the same. Sophia partners with HR teams, ERG leaders, and L&D departments to deliver workshops, keynotes, and reintegration support that teach women to lead with clarity, capacity, and sustainable power. Her work isn't about adding more to your plate. Her programs focus on small, strategic shifts, tiny habits that help women rebuild capacity, lead with conviction, and perform without overextending.

Get in touch with Sophia on LinkedIn or using the links below:

gearingtogether.com

https://www.youtube.com/@GearingTogether

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at The Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Nicky Sweetland, our brilliant creative force behind all things social media and visual, whose eye for detail and design brings the podcast to life beyond the mic.

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this special New Year wrap-up episode, Bex and Aunty B sit down to reflect on the most meaningful moments from Season 3 of Sabbatical Stories, a season that explored what happens when we step away from work and give ourselves permission to question the blueprint.

Across these conversations, we heard deeply human stories about family, identity, money, purpose, and growth. From financial planning and prototyping future lives, to motherhood, fatherhood, ritual, renewal, and building something new on the other side of a break, Season 3 showed that career breaks are rarely just about rest. They’re about recalibration.

Whether you’re considering a sabbatical, navigating a career pause, or figuring out how to integrate what you’ve learned back into work and life, this episode brings together the most powerful insights from the season.

We dive into:

• How financial planning can create peace of mind and expand what’s possible on a sabbatical

• Why prototyping life during a career break can unlock clarity and confidence

• The role of gratitude, reflection, and perspective when stepping away from work

• How identity shifts through parenthood, and major life transitions

• What career breaks can teach us about building businesses, brands, and careers that truly fit

• The power of ritual, renewal, and intentionally breaking away from inherited career blueprints

• Why time away often fuels deeper growth — personally, professionally, and with relationships

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick Mazzocco

• How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition coach and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

Guest bio: Laura is a seasoned marketing leader turned fractional Head of Marketing with over 15 years’ experience building strategy, process, and campaigns for startups and scaling teams.

After a transformative five-month sabbatical across Europe, she traded the corporate grind for a career that offers true freedom helping growing businesses solve big marketing challenges while living life on her own terms.

When she’s not leading strategy sessions or supporting clients with marketing, Laura can be found sipping coffee in new cities, dancing at family weddings, or soaking up the Connecticut sunshine with her loved ones.

👉 Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this conversation, Laura shares her honest and inspiring journey from corporate marketing to building a thriving fractional business that gives her the freedom to live and work from anywhere.

After 15+ years in full-time marketing roles, Laura hit pause and set off on a five-month “Eat, Pray, Love”-style adventure around Europe. What started as a soul-searching sabbatical became the catalyst for a complete career and lifestyle redesign.

Back in Sydney, the idea of returning to a traditional role no longer felt right. Through reflection, courage, and a few key conversations, Laura transitioned into life as a fractional Head of Marketing working part-time with multiple clients, aligning work with joy, and designing a life full of flexibility, purpose, and connection.

We dive into:

• What prompted Laura to take her five-month sabbatical across Europe

• The personal and professional shifts that unfolded during her break

• How she navigated the uncertainty of returning home and job hunting post-sabbatical

• The turning point that inspired her to start her own business

• What it really means to work as a fractional Head of Marketing

• Lessons in confidence, courage, and creating a life you truly want to live

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time off

• How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition coach and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

Guest bio: Laura is a seasoned marketing leader turned fractional Head of Marketing with over 15 years’ experience building strategy, process, and campaigns for startups and scaling teams.

After a transformative five-month sabbatical across Europe, she traded the corporate grind for a career that offers true freedom helping growing businesses solve big marketing challenges while living life on her own terms.

When she’s not leading strategy sessions or supporting clients with marketing, Laura can be found sipping coffee in new cities, dancing at family weddings, or soaking up the Connecticut sunshine with her loved ones.

👉 Connect with Laura on LinkedIn

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this conversation, Izy shares her transformative sabbatical experience traveling through Latin America. She discusses her motivations for taking a break from work, the challenges she faced, and the personal growth she achieved during her journey. Izy emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone, setting intentions for travel, and maintaining connections with people met along the way. She reflects on how the experience has shaped her identity and outlook on life, encouraging others to embrace the opportunity for exploration and self-discovery.

We dive into:

• The importance of setting intentions for a sabbatical

• How experiencing different cultures and meeting diverse people can shift perspectives

• How traveling alone can lead to significant personal growth and new connections

• Why staying longer in each location would have made the trip less hectic

• The power of social media being a powerful tool for staying connected with friends made while traveling.

• How to integrate lessons from the sabbatical into daily life

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time off

• How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this episode, Sean Macmannis shares his transformative sabbatical journey, detailing the decision to take a break from his tech career to embrace fatherhood and explore new living environments. He discusses the challenges of traveling with a toddler, the unique experience of renovating an Airstream, and the lessons learned about work-life balance and personal growth. Sean reflects on how the sabbatical shaped his identity and future career choices, emphasising the importance of taking time for oneself and being deliberate about life decisions.

We dive into:

• How taking a sabbatical helped the transition into fatherhood and navigating a new normal

• How traveling with a toddler requires careful planning and flexibility

• Why staying longer in each location would have made the trip less hectic

• How a sabbatical helps you reconnect with nature and family.

• Post-sabbatical life and the challenges that come with it

• The importance of prioritising values and must-haves during life transitions

• How taking a break can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's identity.

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• How life a changing sabbatical helped host Bex transition from corporate to coaching 

• Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve Duke

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this conversation, Nele shares her transformative journey through sabbaticals, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity, freedom, and sacred time. She discusses how these experiences have shaped her identity and the work she does with her company, Wander. Neela provides valuable insights on integrating lessons from sabbaticals into everyday life and the significance of having a clear vision. She also highlights the importance of community and support in the transformational process, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and growth.

We dive into:

• How sabbaticals serve as fertile soil for dreaming and processing life changes

• Why finding sacred time is essential for maintaining energy and passion in life

• How freedom is a core value in her life that is prioritised in her life choices

• Why a clear vision is necessary for effective transformational work

• How to integrate lessons learned during sabbaticals and why it is vital for long-term change

• Why spontaneity and new environments are crucial for inspiration and creativity

• The importance of distinguishing between mundane and sacred time in daily routines

• How spontaneity and new environments are crucial for inspiration and creativity

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick Mazzocco

• How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this episode Nabil and Zenesta from Tiny Detour share their transformative journey of taking a career break to travel with their daughter. They discuss the catalysts that led to their decision, the planning involved, and the cultural responses they faced. Over two years of travel, they reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges of parenting on the road, and their aspirations for the future, including their YouTube channel that promotes alternative lifestyles and travel experiences.

We dive into:

• How life's unforeseen events can serve as a catalyst for change

• Why financial planning is crucial for a successful career break

• How to successfully travel and take a career break with a child 

• Why cultural perspectives can influence how career breaks are perceived

• How living minimally can lead to a richer life experience.

• The fact that there are alternatives to traditional career paths that can lead to happiness.

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer Anderson

• Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve Duke

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this conversation, Mandy shares her transformative sabbatical journey that began 15 years ago when she felt lost in her corporate career. She discusses the importance of taking a break to rediscover oneself, the intentions behind her travels, and how these experiences led her to a fulfilling career in wellbeing and Pilates. Mandy emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and creating space for creativity in both personal and professional life. She offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the necessity of scheduling breaks to maintain balance and health.

We dive into:

• ​How a sabbatical can be the turning point for personal growth
• ​Why courage over comfort is essential for making life changes
• ​How intentionality in career choices can prevent burnout
• ​The importance of good human connections throughout your break and on your return
• ​Why scheduling breaks is crucial for maintaining balance

Chapters

00:00 - From corporate career to solopreneur journey

02:52 - The leap: traveling Asia with no back up

08:40 - The creative space to launch first wellness business

11:31 - Building a business while working part time

16:05 - Removing the mask: lessons in courage and intuition

20:26 - Scheduling silence: avoiding the noise addiction

23:42 - Listen, learn, leverage: building your own brand

29:48 - Mandy’s camper van dream and scheduling breaks

33:46 - Top tips for a career break: courage, intuition, space

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• ​How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer Anderson
• ​How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time off

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this episode, Lauren shares her unique journey of taking a career break that began as maternity leave. She discusses the emotional challenges of leaving family behind, the identity shift that comes with motherhood, and the importance of mentorship in navigating her career decisions. Lauren emphasizes the need for self-kindness and the value of being present during fleeting moments with her child. She also offers practical advice for parents on managing their career breaks and the guilt that often accompanies parenting decisions.

We dive into:

• ​The emotional impact of leaving family behind as an expat
• ​How becoming a parent often leads to a significant identity shift
• ​The ways in which maternity leave can be challenging, especially in finding purpose and structure
• ​Why finding joy in a new routine is essential for mental well-being
• ​The reasons why returning to work after a break is difficult
• ​How mentorship plays a crucial role in career development and decision-making

Chapters

00:00 - How maternity leave became an extended career break

02:47 - The emotional impact of moving countries with a baby

07:44 - The deep emotional impact of missing family abroad

12:29 - Navigating the shock and identity shift of motherhood

16:40 - Embracing the process and being kinder to yourself

22:57 - Challenges of re- entering the workforce

31:20 - The power of mentorship and intentional decision-making

34:27 - Essential practical tips for parents on career breaks

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• ​The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick Mazzocco
• ​How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/

In this conversation, Jay Epps shares his experiences of taking two significant career breaks, reflecting on the motivations behind them, the activities he engaged in, and the personal growth he experienced. He discusses the importance of disconnecting from work, exploring identity beyond employment, and the lessons learned about gratitude and purpose. Jay emphasises the need to redefine retirement and the value of time, encouraging others to embrace their own sabbaticals without guilt and to celebrate the journey.

We dive into:

• ​Intentional vs surprise breaks.
• ​The importance of gratitude and recognising privileges during a break.
• ​How identity is not tied to employment, but why this was such a significant realisation.
• ​The need to unlearn societal expectations about productivity during a break.
• ​How to take a break without guilt, and instead to celebrate experiences. 

Chapters

00:00 - Reconnecting with Jay on his sabbatical journey

02:24 - Jay’s intentional break after redundancy

06:18 - Finding gratitude and new hobbies during a career break

09:03 - Discovering self-worth beyond professional roles

11:59 - Exploring needs, wants, and future lifestyle design

18:18 - Navigating jealousy from friends and travel highlights in Indonesia

24:34 - Recognising sabbatical privilege and time as a precious resource

29:50 - Purpose, no guilt, and celebrating your career break

Other episodes you may enjoy: 

• ​How life a changing sabbatical helped host Bex transition from corporate to coaching 
• ​Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve Duke

Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you.  Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: 

As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. 

Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. 

Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

With special thanks to: 

Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. 

Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/