Explore every episode of the podcast Second Act Success: Business Tips & Career Change Advice for Women
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How to Discover Your Second Act: Career Change, Reinvention & Finding What’s Next | #265 | 10 Aug 2026 | 00:52:40 | |
Are you thinking about a career change but have no idea what you want to do next? Maybe your current career no longer fits the person you are today. Maybe you’ve experienced an “aha moment” that made you question your work, your priorities, or what you want your life to look like. Or maybe you simply know you’re ready for something different. In this special episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach and career transition coach Shannon Russell shares Chapter 3, “Discovering Your Second Act,” from her book Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life. Shannon walks you through the process of discovering your next chapter and reminds you that making a midlife career transition does not mean starting over. Your skills, experience, relationships, resilience, and knowledge come with you. You’ll learn how to reflect on what is and isn’t working in your current career, identify your strengths and passions, explore second act career ideas, build your network, prepare financially for a career transition, and create a timeline for making your next move. Shannon also shares lessons from her own transition from television producer to entrepreneur and explains how the skills she developed during 16 years in the entertainment industry helped her build successful businesses. Whether you’re considering leaving corporate, starting a business, becoming a female entrepreneur, or simply searching for a more flexible career, this episode will help you begin thinking differently about what your next chapter could look like. Because your first career gave you experience. Your second act career is your opportunity to decide how you want to use it. If you’re ready for career reinvention, press play and start discovering what your second act could be. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| When to Hire Your First Employee: What to Outsource First to Grow Your Small Business | #264 | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:15:22 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Are you trying to do everything in your business yourself? One of the biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make is waiting too long to hire help. While wearing every hat might seem like the most affordable option, it can actually slow your business growth and lead to burnout. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach Shannon Russell shares how to know when it's time to hire your first employee, what tasks to outsource first, and how bringing in the right support can help you scale your business faster. Whether you're just starting a business, growing your small business, or navigating your second act career, this episode will help you confidently build a team without feeling overwhelmed. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you're ready to stop doing everything yourself and start leading your business like a CEO, this episode is for you. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| How to Choose the Right Business to Start | #263 | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:12:36 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. How do you know which business is the right one to start? If you've been thinking about starting a business but feel overwhelmed by all the online advice, you're not alone. Every day there seems to be a new business trend, side hustle, or entrepreneur claiming they made six figures overnight. But copying someone else's business isn't the path to building one you'll actually love. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach Shannon Russell shares the five questions every aspiring entrepreneur should ask before starting a business. Learn how to choose a business idea that aligns with your skills, lifestyle, values, energy, and long-term goals instead of chasing shiny objects online. If you're considering a career change, career transition, or starting a business after leaving corporate, this episode will help you confidently choose a business that fits your life and creates lasting freedom. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you're ready to stop comparing yourself to everyone online and start building a business that's uniquely yours, this episode is for you. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| From Engineer to Leadership Coach: Career Growth, Confidence, & Entrepreneurship with Sairan Aqrawi | #262 | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:26:51 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What does it take to become a confident leader, build a successful career, and create a business you're passionate about? In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with engineering leadership strategist, executive coach, speaker, and mentor Sairan Aqrawi to discuss how women can build confidence, find their voice, and create meaningful careers without waiting for permission. Although Sairan built an impressive career in engineering and construction leadership, she believes every professional has the opportunity to create a fulfilling second act by combining their expertise with their passions. Together, Shannon and Sairan discuss why women often wait until midlife to pursue their dreams, how to start a business while still working full-time, and why your side business should become your "side haven," not another source of stress. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to develop leadership confidence as a woman Whether you're considering a career change, exploring entrepreneurship, or looking for the confidence to take the next step toward your goals, this conversation will leave you inspired to create the career and life you truly want. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Preschool Owner turned Author. How to Reinvent Your Career at Any Age with Kay Paschal | #261 | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:28:28 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Have you ever wondered if it's too late to change careers, start a business, or even write a book? Think again. In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with entrepreneur and author Kay Paschal, whose career journey proves that your best chapter may still be ahead. After spending 18 years in the corporate world, Kay made an unexpected career transition by opening a preschool with her husband, despite having no experience in education or business ownership. Together they built a thriving family business that served their community for 25 years before successfully selling it just before retirement. But Kay's second act didn't stop there. In retirement, she discovered a new passion for writing and became the author of Insert Giggle Giggle, a parenting book inspired by decades of experience helping families. Today, she's a speaker, podcast host, and author, proving that reinvention doesn't have an expiration date. In this episode, we discuss: • How to successfully transition from a corporate career into entrepreneurship Whether you're considering a career transition, dreaming about entrepreneurship, or wondering what your own second act could look like, Kay's story will inspire you to believe that reinvention is always possible. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| It's Never Too Late to Pivot: Finding Purpose and Creating a Career You Love with Siena Dean | #260 | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:28:33 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What if the key to a successful career transition isn't starting over, but connecting the dots of everything you've already done? In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with purpose-driven leader, career strategist, and Senior Alumni Engagement Manager at Management Leadership for Tomorrow, Siena Dean, to talk about finding purpose, building confidence, and creating a career that truly aligns with who you are. Siena shares how she intentionally designed her career around helping others, why it's never too late to pivot, and how self-reflection can help women create meaningful second act careers. Together, Shannon and Siena discuss career reinvention, confidence, childhood influences, purpose-driven work, and the importance of living life on your own terms. If you're considering a career change, navigating a midlife career transition, or wondering whether you're on the right path, this conversation will encourage you to trust yourself and start building a life that feels aligned. In this episode, you'll learn:
Whether you're leaving corporate, exploring second act career ideas, or searching for more purpose and work-life balance, this episode will remind you that your story is still being written. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| You Deserve Freedom: Why Starting a Business Gives Women More Time, Flexibility, and Purpose | #259 | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:18:25 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What if the real reason you want to start a business isn't about money? What if it's about freedom? In this heartfelt solo episode #259 of the Second Act Success Podcast, host and business coach Shannon Russell shares the deeper reason so many women pursue entrepreneurship. Not just for financial independence, but for the freedom to be present for their children, aging parents, and themselves. After leaving her television career, Shannon discovered that building her own businesses gave her something even more valuable than income: flexibility, purpose, and the ability to show up for the people she loves most. Whether you're experiencing burnout, dreaming about a career change, or wondering if starting a business could create a more fulfilling life, this episode is your reminder that you don't have to choose between ambition and family. You deserve both. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you've been thinking, "There has to be more than this," this episode is for you. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Women’s Health Advocacy, Career Reinvention & Finding Your Purpose with Rebecca Bloom | #258 | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:29:04 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.
What if the career skills you've spent decades building could become the foundation for a completely different and more meaningful second act? In this inspiring episode #258 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Rebecca Bloom, former workplace and benefits attorney, women's health advocate, author, and storytelling coach, to discuss how personal challenges can lead to a powerful career transition and a life filled with purpose. After Rebecca's mother and sister were both diagnosed with breast cancer, she found herself navigating the complex healthcare system as an advocate for her family. What began as a deeply personal experience eventually evolved into a new career helping women across the country advocate for themselves during health challenges. Today, Rebecca is the author of When Women Get Sick: An Empowering Approach for Getting the Support You Need and has spent more than 27 years supporting women facing breast and ovarian cancer through her work with Bay Area Cancer Connections. In this conversation, Rebecca shares how she transitioned from corporate law to women's health advocacy, why storytelling became such an important part of her work, and how women can uncover the skills, passions, and experiences that lead to a meaningful second act career. In This Episode, We Discuss:
Whether you're considering a career change, exploring second act career ideas, or searching for more meaningful work, this episode will inspire you to rethink what's possible and embrace the next chapter of your life. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Mini Retirement in Midlife: How Taking a Career Pause Led to a Powerful New Beginning with Patricia Sasser | #257 | 25 May 2026 | 00:29:38 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What happens when life forces you to slow down? In this powerful episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Patricia Sasser, independent school leader and incoming Head of School, to talk about taking a mid-career sabbatical, also known as a “mini retirement,” after experiencing profound personal loss. After years of serving students, families, and school communities while navigating grief and burnout, Patricia made the courageous decision to pause her career and prioritize healing, self-care, and reflection. What followed was a transformative journey of grief, personal growth, career clarity, and ultimately, a bold new leadership opportunity. In this episode, Patricia shares:
If you’ve been feeling burned out, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or questioning your next chapter, this conversation will remind you that sometimes stepping away is exactly what allows you to move forward. Patricia’s story is proof that pressing pause does not mean giving up. Sometimes it’s the beginning of your next great chapter. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| What Your Kids Learn From Watching You Chase Your Dreams | #256 | 18 May 2026 | 00:14:11 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What are your children learning from the way you approach work, stress, ambition, and dreams? In this heartfelt episode #256 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell shares a deeply personal story about attending her son’s school presentation and realizing just how much our children are watching us as we navigate our careers, businesses, and second acts. From career transitions and entrepreneurship to motherhood and personal fulfillment, this episode explores how the choices we make as adults shape what our children believe is possible for their own lives. If you are a woman considering a career change, thinking about starting a business, or navigating a midlife career transition, this conversation will remind you that your journey is about more than just you. Your children are learning from the way you show up every day. In this episode, Shannon discusses:
This episode is an honest conversation about motherhood, ambition, work-life balance, and creating a life aligned with your values. If you’ve ever wondered whether your kids notice your sacrifices, your stress, or your dreams, this episode is for you. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Midlife Career Transition: Building a Business and Community from Scratch with Betty Galvan | #255 | 11 May 2026 | 00:26:15 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What does a successful career transition really look like? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Betty Galvan, a former teacher turned female entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and coworking space owner, to talk about her inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship. Betty shares how she went from teaching middle school to launching a blog during the early days of digital marketing, which eventually evolved into a successful small business helping companies grow through social media. Today, she runs a digital marketing agency and owns two coworking spaces in New Jersey. If you're a midlife woman considering a career change, dreaming about starting a business, or looking for real-life second act career ideas, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice. In this episode, we cover:
Betty’s story is proof that your second act career doesn’t have to be perfectly planned. It evolves as you do. If you’ve been wondering how to start a business, pivot careers, or step into entrepreneurship, this episode will show you what’s possible. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Feeling Stuck in Your Business? How to Turn Roadblocks Into Breakthroughs | #254 | 06 May 2026 | 00:11:10 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Building a business is exciting, but it’s not always easy. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into one of the most important topics for entrepreneurs and women starting a business. How to handle roadblocks, setbacks, and challenges without losing momentum. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business, frustrated by a failed launch, or unsure how to move forward after something didn’t go as planned, this episode is for you. Because here’s the truth. Every entrepreneur faces obstacles. The difference is how you respond to them. Shannon shares practical mindset shifts and actionable strategies to help you reframe challenges, build resilience, and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. As discussed in this episode, roadblocks can include financial struggles, marketing failures, team issues, or simply feeling overwhelmed and stuck You’ll learn how to move from reaction to action so you can keep building your business with confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Whether you’re in the early stages of starting a business or navigating a career transition into entrepreneurship, this episode will help you stay grounded, focused, and moving forward. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| How to Become a Published Author While Working Full-Time | #253 | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:23:08 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Have you ever dreamed of becoming a published author but told yourself you don’t have the time? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Liz Mugavero, traditionally published author of 20 books and counting, to talk about how she built a successful writing career while working a demanding corporate job. Liz shares how she went from a career in journalism and marketing to becoming a full-time communications consultant and bestselling mystery author, all while writing books on the side for years before landing her first publishing deal If you’re navigating a career transition, starting a side business, or dreaming about your own second act career, this episode will show you what’s possible when you stay committed to your passion. In this episode, we cover:
Liz also shares how she now helps aspiring writers through her coaching programs, courses, and membership community, giving them the tools and support to finally write their books. If you’ve been thinking about writing a book, starting a business, or stepping into your second act, this episode will inspire you to take action. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Afraid of What People Will Think? How to Overcome Self-Doubt in Business | #252 | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:14:59 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Have you ever stopped yourself from starting a business or changing careers because you were worried about what people would think? You are not alone. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into one of the biggest blockers for women navigating a career transition, self-doubt and the fear of judgment. Listen in if you’ve ever thought:
Shannon breaks down:
If you’re in a midlife career transition, thinking about starting a business, or ready to move from employee to entrepreneur, this episode will help you take your next step with confidence. 🔗 Get the full show notes at https://secondactsuccess.co/252. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Stay-at-Home Mom to Financial Advisor: How to Start a Business and Reinvent Your Career | #251 | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:30:12 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Are you a stay-at-home mom thinking about going back to work, starting a business, or navigating a career transition? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Lorie Jones, a financial advisor, entrepreneur, and mom of five, who shares her inspiring journey from stay-at-home parent to successful business owner. Lorie started with no background in finance. She simply needed a paycheck. But what began as a secretarial job quickly turned into a passion, leading her to earn multiple certifications, build her expertise, and eventually launch her own financial advisory business. In this episode, we cover:
Lorie’s story is proof that you don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. You just need to take the first step. If you’re thinking about a career transition, exploring second act career ideas, or ready to go from employee to entrepreneur, this episode will give you both inspiration and practical insight. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Mini Retirement: Why Women Are Taking Career Breaks to Reset | #250 | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:14:23 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What if retirement didn’t have to wait until you were 65? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into the growing trend of mini retirements and why more women are choosing to take intentional career breaks to reset, recharge, and rethink their next chapter. A recent study shows that more professionals are planning career breaks of 3 to 12 months, especially during midlife, to combat burnout, explore new business ideas, and realign their lives with what truly matters. If you’ve ever felt exhausted, stuck in your 9–5, or unsure what your next move should be, this episode will open your eyes to a powerful alternative. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business, navigating a midlife career transition, or simply craving space to breathe, this episode will help you explore what’s possible. Your second act doesn’t have to wait. Sometimes, it starts with a pause. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| She Got Laid Off… Then Built Her Dream Business Instead | #249 | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:31:24 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What would you do if you were laid off tomorrow? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Kelly Schuknecht to talk about turning an unexpected layoff into a powerful second act career. After years climbing the corporate ladder in publishing and marketing, Kelly found herself at a crossroads when her company was acquired and her role was eliminated. Instead of panicking, she leaned into the idea she had been quietly building on the side and launched her own business almost overnight. Today, Kelly runs a thriving marketing and thought leadership company, helping entrepreneurs grow their visibility through speaking, content, podcast interviews, and book publishing. In this conversation, we cover:
Kelly’s story is proof that your next chapter can begin when you least expect it, and that your experience is never wasted, it’s the foundation for your second act. If you’ve been thinking about starting a business, navigating a career transition, or building a personal brand, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to take action. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Mentorship Matters: How Big Brothers Big Sisters Gives Youth a Second Act Start | #248 | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:10:55 | |
In this special episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell participates in Podcastathon 2026, a global initiative where podcasters dedicate an episode to highlight a charity that matters deeply to them. The organization Shannon chose to spotlight is Big Brothers Big Sisters, specifically Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal and Northern New Jersey. Before becoming a business coach for women, Shannon spent years running a Snapology STEM and robotics franchise, where she partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters to bring hands-on LEGO and robotics programs to their mentorship events. Through those experiences, she saw firsthand how powerful mentorship can be. Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs children, known as “Littles,” with caring mentors called “Bigs.” These relationships help young people build confidence, develop strong life skills, and see new possibilities for their future. In this episode, Shannon shares:
This conversation ties directly into the mission of Second Act Success, because whether you are a child learning to believe in yourself or an adult building a new chapter in life, having someone who believes in you can change everything. If you’ve ever had a mentor who shaped your life, or if you believe in supporting the next generation, this episode will inspire you to take action. You can make a difference by supporting the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Donate nationally: Support Shannon’s local chapter: You can also volunteer to become a mentor, share this episode, or simply spread awareness about the impact of mentorship. One caring adult can truly change the life of a child. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Starting a Business? How to Research Your Business Idea First | #247 | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:12:39 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. If you have a business idea you're excited about, it can be tempting to jump straight into building it. But before you invest your time, energy, and money, there's one critical step you shouldn't skip. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell walks you through how to research and validate your business idea so you can confidently move from employee to entrepreneur. Doing market research helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures there is real demand for the product or service you want to offer. Instead of guessing, you'll learn how to gather valuable insights about your target audience, competitors, and market demand. If you're considering starting a business during a career transition or exploring ideas for your second act career, this episode will give you practical steps to test your idea before launching. You'll also learn how to gather feedback from potential customers, test your offer, and make adjustments early so you can build a sustainable and profitable business. What You'll Learn in This Episode:
🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Why Your Past Experience Is Never Wasted with Transformational Coach Kayla Sweet | #246 | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:36:13 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Have you ever worried that changing careers means everything you’ve done up to this point was a waste? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Kayla Sweet, a transformational life coach and founder of Internally Guided Leadership Consulting, to talk about transformation, alignment, burnout, and career transitions. Kayla shares how she started in community mental health, hit burnout, and used that turning point to rebuild her path in a way that honors both purpose and wellness. Together, Shannon and Kayla unpack why your past experience is never purposeless. The skills you’ve built, the lessons you’ve learned, and the work you’ve done all tie together in ways you can use to create your second act career. If you’re navigating a midlife career transition, feeling stuck in burnout, or wondering what’s next, this episode will help you rethink the story you’re telling yourself and start moving toward work that feels more like you. In this episode, we talk about:
🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Mom Guilt and Career Change: The Day I Knew Something Had to Shift | #245 | 05 Mar 2026 | 00:14:28 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. I missed my son’s first birthday. And that moment changed everything in my career. In this deeply personal episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell shares the story of the day she was producing a major MTV shoot at South by Southwest while her baby celebrated his first birthday without her. On paper, it looked like success. Behind the scenes, it felt like heartbreak. If you are a working mom feeling stretched thin... Then this episode #245 will resonate with you. This episode dives into:
Shannon shares how that moment became the catalyst for leaving television, starting a business, and eventually becoming a business coach for women navigating career transitions. Your turning point might not look dramatic. It might be quiet. It might be emotional. But it matters. And it might be the beginning of your second act career. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Fear of Success: Why You’re Scared of Achieving Your Dream Business | #244 | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:13:57 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Have you ever been more afraid of your dream coming true than of it failing? Fear of failure is real, but what about the fear of success? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell, business coach for women and author of Start Your Second Act, dives into one of the most overlooked blocks in entrepreneurship and career transitions: the fear of actually succeeding. If you’ve been procrastinating launching your business, stalling on finishing your website, or quietly holding back from fully going all in, this episode is for you. Inside, we unpack:
For women navigating a midlife career transition, leaving a 9 to 5 job, or starting a business after years in corporate, this conversation will help you understand why you may be subconsciously holding yourself back. Success is not an ending. It is the beginning of your next chapter. If you’re ready to move past fear and build a business aligned with your life, this episode will help you step into the next version of you. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Recruiter turned Career Strategist: Insider Secrets to Getting Hired in Today’s AI Job Market | #243 | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:21:08 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Are you struggling to get your resume noticed in today’s competitive job market? Wondering how to get past AI resume screeners and actually land an interview? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with former recruiter turned career strategist Sindy Thomas, host of The Insider Career Club Podcast. With over 25 years of experience in talent acquisition across biotech, pharmaceuticals, IT, and corporate industries, Sindy shares insider hiring secrets that every job seeker needs to know. From applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI resume bots to LinkedIn networking strategies and researching companies before you apply, Sindy breaks down how the hiring process really works, and what you can do to stand out. Whether you're navigating a career change, re-entering the workforce, or facing layoffs in today’s shifting economy, this episode gives you practical strategies to help you get seen, get connected, and get hired. If you’re ready to stop blindly applying online and start networking strategically, this conversation is a must-listen. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| You Don’t Want Your Boss’s Job… So Why Are You Still Climbing the Corporate Ladder? | #242 | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:11:48 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. If you don’t want your boss’s job… why are you still climbing the ladder? This episode of the Second Act Success Podcast with business coach Shannon Russell is your wake-up call. So many high-achieving women are working long hours, chasing promotions, and saying yes to more responsibility. Yet when they look at the next level, they realize something uncomfortable. They don’t actually want it. This episode challenges the traditional corporate ladder mindset and invites you to rethink what success really means in this season of your life. Especially if you are a woman in a corporate leadership role, an ambitious professional feeling burned out, or someone considering a career pivot into entrepreneurship. If you’re navigating a midlife career transition, questioning your next promotion, or wondering whether entrepreneurship could be your second act, this conversation will hit home. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The truth is, success isn’t about climbing higher. It’s about aligning your work with the life you actually want. If the thought of having your boss’s job drains you instead of excites you, that’s information. And you’re allowed to use it. Ready to explore what your second act could look like? Book a free strategy call and let’s map it out together. 🔗 Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Why I Don't Believe in Picking a Quit Date to Start a Business, Sorry Amy Porterfield | #241 | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:12:11 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. If you have ever read Two Weeks Notice by Amy Porterfield, you know she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to pick a quit date and put it on the calendar. For many women, that bold move is exactly what helps them finally take action. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell shares a different approach. One rooted in preparation, confidence, and financial stability. Shannon explains why she does not believe in circling a random date on the calendar and quitting your job before you are truly ready. Instead, she teaches her proven philosophy of learning before you leap. This episode is perfect for women who want to start a business but do not want to rush, panic, or put unnecessary pressure on themselves or their finances. In this episode, you will learn:
If you are craving freedom and fulfillment but want a thoughtful and strategic path forward, this episode will help you feel grounded, prepared, and confident about your next move. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Your Husband Hates His Job - How to Change Careers Without the Guilt | #240 | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:14:49 | |
👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. Do you feel guilty about wanting to change your career when your partner is unhappy in their job, but refuses to make a move? You’re not alone, and this episode is your permission slip to move forward anyway. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach and author Shannon Russell tackles one of the most common emotional roadblocks women face when considering a career pivot or starting a business: guilt tied to a partner’s unhappiness. If you’ve been asking yourself, “How can I pursue my dream when my partner won’t change?”, this conversation is for you. Shannon breaks down why this guilt shows up, why it’s not yours to carry, and how choosing yourself is not selfish, it’s self-leadership. You’ll learn how to separate your career journey from your partner’s, communicate with compassion, reframe guilt, and confidently take steps toward a more fulfilling life and career. In this episode, you’ll learn:
If you’re craving change but feel weighed down by guilt, this episode will help you release it, refocus on what you can control, and take aligned action toward your second act. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Why Your “Side Gig” Is Legit. How a Side Business Can Lead to Your Second Act Career | #239 | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:32:29 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. Don’t let anyone tell you that your side gig isn’t legitimate. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, career transition coach and business coach for women Shannon Russell sits down with Cheryl Fischer, a former corporate professional turned math and economics teacher who reinvented herself again as a mindset coach and podcast host. Cheryl shares her powerful second act career story. From working in corporate consulting and airline pricing to teaching high school for over a decade, she opens up about burnout, empathy overload, and the moment she realized she didn’t want to spend the rest of her career exhausted and resentful. What started as a “small” direct sales business on the side became the confidence bridge she needed to explore entrepreneurship, mindset work, and ultimately create a business that fits her life. Today, Cheryl is a mindset coach and the host of the Mind Your Midlife podcast, helping women navigate midlife transitions with clarity and confidence. In this episode, we talk about:
If you’re navigating a midlife or mid-career transition, questioning whether your side business is “real,” or exploring second act career ideas, this episode will remind you that small steps can lead to life-changing transformations. Your side gig isn’t silly. It might just be the beginning of your next chapter. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| 3 Simple Ways to Create Movement in Your Business to Get Clients & Cash Flow Moving | #238 | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:12:03 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. If your business feels quiet, slow, or stuck right now, this episode is for you. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach for women Shannon Russell shares 3 simple, practical ways to create momentum in your business. Especially during seasons when motivation is low, sales feel inconsistent, or you’re craving proof that what you’re building is working. Whether you’re starting a business, growing a second act career, or navigating a career transition into entrepreneurship, momentum matters. It fuels confidence, income, and the belief that you’re on the right path. In this episode, you’ll learn:
This episode is especially helpful if you’re a woman entrepreneur, building a business alongside a job, or feeling discouraged by slow seasons. Momentum isn’t created by big launches or perfection. It’s built through steady action, connection, and follow-through. If you’ve been thinking, I just need one thing to start working, press play. This episode will help you get unstuck and moving again. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| A Job Offer After You Quit? How to Navigate Career Transition Without Losing Momentum | #237 | 05 Feb 2026 | 00:15:23 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. What do you do when you’re ready to launch your business and suddenly a job offer lands in your lap? You’ve done the work. You’ve given notice. You’re building a business. And then… an opportunity shows up that makes you question everything. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, career transition coach and business coach for women Shannon Russell breaks down a situation many women face during a career transition, but rarely talk about. What happens when a full-time job, contract role, or request to stay longer at your current job appears just as you’re stepping into entrepreneurship? Drawing from real conversations with her business coaching clients navigating mid-career and midlife career transitions, Shannon walks you through how to think strategically instead of emotionally when these opportunities arise. You’ll learn:
If you’re navigating a career transition, starting a business, or questioning your next move, this episode will help you pause, evaluate, and choose intentionally. Your second act doesn’t have to follow anyone else’s timeline. It just needs forward momentum. This episode is for women exploring second act career ideas, building a business during a career change, and learning how to balance stability with growth. *Get the full show notes here! Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. 🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Stop Feeling Guilty About Pivoting. How to Close a Business and Start Your Second Act with Sharon Calle | #236 | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:38:22 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. What happens when you build a successful business, then realize it’s time to close that chapter? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Sharon Calle, founder of Luminosa Creative, to talk about the emotional side of business pivots, career change, and giving yourself permission to move on without guilt. Sharon shares her “squiggly” creative journey. From studying illustration and graphic design, to becoming an art teacher, to launching a thriving art studio and brick-and-mortar space, to pivoting during the pandemic, and finally stepping into her next chapter as a website designer and SEO strategist for women business owners. She also opens up about burnout, sustainability, and why closing a profitable business can be an act of self trust, not failure. If you’re navigating a career transition, considering entrepreneurship, or you’ve outgrown a business that no longer fits your life, this conversation will help you stop grieving the ending and start celebrating what you built. What you'll learn:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| How to Leave a 9–5 and Follow Your Passion: Insurance to Actress to Business Owner | #235 | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:36:40 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. What happens when you’re sitting at a “safe” job with benefits, but your soul is screaming, this isn’t it? In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Sabine Kvenberg, who went from working in the insurance industry in Germany to becoming a professional actress, and then making a bold move to the United States to co-found a performing arts school with her husband. Sabine’s story is a powerful reminder that starting over, making a career change, and building a second act often comes with resistance from people who want to “protect” you. But as Sabine says, she didn’t want to look back 40 years later and wonder, why didn’t you at least try? You’ll hear how she balanced her 9–5 while training for acting, how her career pivot led to bigger opportunities (and bigger income), and how she later reinvented again through business ownership, podcasting, writing books, and becoming a keynote speaker teaching others how to own their voice on any stage. If you’re thinking about leaving your corporate job, reinventing yourself in midlife, starting a business, or building a life that feels aligned, this episode will light you up. Listen now for a second act success story that proves it’s never too late to pivot. Inside the episode:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Design a Business That Fits Your Life. (Not the Other Way Around) | #234 | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:24:45 | |
Too many women leave corporate jobs or start businesses for freedom, only to recreate the same burnout in a different form. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach and former TV producer Shannon Russell shares how to design a business that truly fits your life. Not one you have to squeeze your life into. If you’re starting a business, scaling an existing one, or feeling overwhelmed by hustle culture, this episode will help you flip the script and build a life-first business that supports your priorities, energy, and values. You’ll learn how to stop building a business based on what should work and instead create a business model aligned with your schedule, family life, and long-term goals. From choosing the right business model to setting boundaries, systems, and workflows, this episode walks you through how to create freedom without burnout. This episode is especially helpful for women in midlife who are:
Your business should support your life. Not consume it. *Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. Subscribe now for actionable insights on how to shift your mindset, take control of your career, and build a thriving business. Read the Second Act Blog for more advice and inspiration on creating your business. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Feeling Lost in Midlife? How to Find Happiness Before Your Next Step (Encore) | #233 | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:26:37 | |
What if the reason you feel unfulfilled isn’t your job, your relationship, or your circumstances? In this powerful re-released episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with happiness mentor Karyn Seitz, founder of the Happy Wife School, for a deep conversation about why so many women feel empty and dissatisfied even after “doing everything right.” Karyn works with women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who have successful lives on paper but still feel like something is missing. In this episode, she breaks down the truth about the pursuit of happiness, why external success never lasts, and how true fulfillment comes from within. If you’re considering a second act, a career change, or questioning what’s next in midlife, this episode will help you slow down, look inward, and make decisions from clarity rather than desperation. This is a must-listen conversation about self-worth, happiness, identity, and creating a life that actually feels good to live. Key Takeaways:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Whose Advice Are You Listening To? Protect Your Second Act Business Dream | #232 | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:16:50 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. Whose advice have you been listening to lately? If you’re planning a career change, starting a second act, or trying to quit your 9 to 5 to start a business, the wrong advice can quietly derail you before you even get momentum. In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach and bestselling author Shannon Russell shares a simple rule to help you filter advice with confidence: only take advice from people who have your goals, or who have already done what you’re trying to do. Because when you ask people who haven’t made bold moves, their guidance often comes from fear, not experience. You’ll learn how to spot fear-based advice, protect your dream in the early stages, and find the right support through mentors, coaches, communities, and other women who have truly reinvented themselves. *Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. __________________________ -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Rebuilding After Betrayal: Vanessa Cardenas on Healing & Creating a Second Act | #231 | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:43:04 | |
*Book a free strategy call to discuss your business or second act idea with Shannon here. What do you do when your life shatters on a park bench in Central Park? In this powerful episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Vanessa Cardenas, a C-suite healthcare executive, relationship reset expert, and founder of Understanding Ear, to talk about how one devastating betrayal became the catalyst for her second act. After her husband of over two decades said the words, “I’ve met someone,” Vanessa’s world collapsed. In this raw and inspiring conversation, she shares how she navigated betrayal trauma, confronted the “nasty chick” inner critic in her head, rebuilt her marriage, and turned her pain into purpose by launching a business helping others heal. If you’ve ever felt lost in your relationship, stuck in fear, or unsure how to reclaim your power after a life-altering event, this episode will remind you that your story isn’t over — you get to write the next chapter. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Whether you’re healing from betrayal, navigating a relationship reset, or standing at the crossroads of your own second act, Vanessa’s story is a masterclass in resilience, self-trust, and choosing your destiny instead of letting fear choose it for you. *Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Start Your Business by March 31: A 90-Day Q1 Blueprint to Launch in 2026 | #230 | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:20:32 | |
*Book a free strategy call with Shannon here. https://secondactsuccess.co/230 Ready to finally start a business in 2026 instead of just talking about it? In this first episode of the year, business coach and host Shannon Russell walks you through a simple, realistic 90-day Q1 plan to launch your business by March 31, 2026. If you’ve been sitting on a business idea, dreaming about quitting your 9–5, or wanting to add a new offer to your existing business, this pep-talk-meets-strategy session is your green light. You’ll learn how to turn your idea into a clear business concept, validate it with real people, and set up the core foundations of your business in the first quarter of the year, without burning out or trying to do everything at once. Shannon breaks Q1 into three focused months so you can move from “someday” to “it’s happening” with a step-by-step roadmap. This episode of the Second Act Success Podcast is a must-listen! In this episode, you’ll learn:
If you’re a woman in a 9–5 job, a busy mom, or an early-stage entrepreneur who wants to start an online business in 2026, this episode will give you the clarity, confidence, and practical steps to get moving in Q1—so by the end of the year, you’re running the business you’ve been dreaming about. Download my free 90-Day Sprint Planner *Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Fuel Your CEO Brain: Nutrition Tips for Women Entrepreneurs with Dietitian Lindsay Martens | #229 | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:40:45 | |
*Book a free strategy call with Shannon here. Ready to start (or scale) your business, but want to do it without running on caffeine and chaos? In this episode 229 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with registered dietitian Lindsay Martens to talk about how to fuel your CEO brain, create sustainable healthy habits, and protect your energy while you build your second act. Lindsay shares why your brain needs consistent fuel (hello, focus and creativity), how to stop the mid-afternoon crash that turns into “why am I like this?” spirals, and how to ditch all-or-nothing wellness rules. If you’re a busy woman juggling work, kids, and a business dream, this conversation will help you build a health routine that’s actually realistic and “good enough” to stick. Key Takeaways:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Hallmark Christmas Movie Obsessed? Meet Film Critic Rachel Wagner | #228 | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:31:56 | |
It’s holiday season and we are talking Hallmark Christmas movies on the Second Act Success Podcast. We are officially fan-girling because film critic and host of the Hallmarkies Podcast Rachel Wagner joins us to talk about hosting this popular podcast with Hallmark and movies at its core. Rachel shares how a love of movie criticism led her to start creating online reviews, launch a podcast, and eventually build a thriving platform that’s now deep into its 9th holiday season (with thousands of episodes!). Along the way, she’s interviewed Hallmark writers, actors, and directors, yet she’s also honest about what actually grows a show: consistency, relationships, and being ready when opportunity knocks. If you love Hallmark Christmas movies, rom-coms, podcasting, content creation, or you’re dreaming about starting a creative second act in the new year, this one is pure holiday gold. Key takeaways from this episode:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Paralegal to Podcasting Pro: How Fran Stone Built “9 to 5 Mom with a Pod” While Raising a Toddler | #227 | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:31:57 | |
*Book a free strategy call with Shannon here. What if you could start a profitable podcast and personal brand before you ever quit your 9–5? In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success podcast, Shannon Russell talks with Francesca (Fran) Stone, founder of 9 to 5 Mom with a Pod—a podcast and consulting platform that helps mom content creators launch personal brands and grow with purpose. Fran shares how her winding career path—from talent agent to paralegal—gave her the business, sales, and people skills she now uses as a full-time entrepreneur. After becoming a mom, she realized her demanding legal career no longer fit the life she wanted, so she started her podcast as a side hustle, monetized it through consulting and affiliates (not sponsorships!), and eventually quit her job to work for herself… all while caring for her toddler at home. If you’re a mom who dreams of starting a podcast, growing a brand, or leaving your 9–5 to work online, this conversation will show you what’s possible—without a massive audience or going viral. Key Takeaways:
*Get the full show notes here! Leave a review for the Second Act Success Podcast here. -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Second Act Authors: 9 Books That Prove It’s Never Too Late To Rewrite Your Story | #226 | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:17:34 | |
In this special episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, business coach, author, and host Shannon Russell celebrates an incredible wave of second act authors who published books in 2025—right alongside her own book, Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life. Shannon spotlights powerful new releases from friends and former guests including Lisa Morton (Aligned at Home), Heike Yates (Pursue Your Spark), Gregory Andrus (A Walk Along the Jersey Shore), Sara Conklin (Fundamentally Frugal), Gina Riley (Qualified Isn’t Enough), Liz Alterman (You Shouldn't Have Done That, Clare Casey's Had Enough, A Different Type of Poison), Cindy Bertram (California Fork & Spoon), Maude McDonald (Retro Quilts), and Liz Mugavero (Claws Out). You’ll hear how each author used their second act, career change, or creative pivot to turn lived experience into pages that inspire, heal, and empower others. Whether you’ve secretly dreamed of writing a book, starting a business, or launching your own creative project, this episode is your loving nudge that it’s absolutely possible—especially in midlife. In this episode, you’ll learn:
If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe I could write a book someday…” let this episode be your sign. Press play, grab the book list in the show notes, and get inspired to start your own second act story. SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/226 -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Stay-at-Home Mom Turned Community Leader: Michelle DeKeyser on Motherhood and Belonging | #225 | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:28:20 | |
If you’re a mom who feels like you’ve lost yourself in motherhood, this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast is for you. Host Shannon Russell, business coach for women and author of Start Your Second Act, sits down with former teacher turned stay-at-home mom and community builder Michelle DeKeyser, founder of Mama Genius and the Mama Genius Hub. Michelle shares her honest journey from teaching to being a stay-at-home mom to searching for community with other women, and creating her own Mama Genius community. If you’ve ever thought, “I checked all the boxes—marriage, kids, house—so why do I still feel empty?”, Michelle’s story will help you feel seen, less alone, and inspired to create your own second act. We talk about motherhood, identity, mom burnout, community, and starting a business as a mom, and how to find the courage to listen to that quiet now-what voice inside. Key Takeaways:
This episode is perfect for:
SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/225 Connect with Michelle DeKeyser: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/mama-genius-hub/episodes/ ------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| Gratitude, Growth & New Beginnings: Reflecting on 2025 and Preparing Your Second Act | #224 | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:17:10 | |
In this special Thanksgiving episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell, business coach, author, and mom of two, reflects on the incredible milestones, personal growth, and business breakthroughs that made 2025 a transformational year. From publishing her book Start Your Second Act, to speaking on stages across the country, to running global LEGO® Serious Play® workshops, to celebrating precious family moments…Shannon shares the moments she’s most grateful for and the lessons that shaped her second act as an entrepreneur. This episode will inspire you to slow down, reflect with gratitude, acknowledge your growth, and step confidently into 2026 with clarity and intention. Whether you're planning your own second act, building a business, or craving a fresh start, this warm and honest year-end reflection will help you recognize just how far you've already come. Grab your journal, settle in, and let’s celebrate gratitude—one meaningful moment at a time. SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/224 ------ -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| She Quit Her CMO Job to Build a Happier Life: Dani Cee’s Bold Second Act Career Pivot | #223 | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:30:28 | |
Ready to trade burnout for a life that actually fits? In this empowering episode, Shannon Russell talks with Dani Cee, a former Chief Marketing Officer who walked away from a 20-year corporate career to launch the Happy Life Agenda and work as an empowerment consultant. Dani shares the moment she knew the 9–5 was costing her everything, how journaling, faith, and clarity guided her exit, and the simple pillars she now uses to help women design a happier second-act career. If you’re a working mom craving work–life balance, purpose, and flexibility, this conversation is your roadmap to a smart, values-aligned career change. Key Takeaways:
SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/223 Connect with Dani Cee: https://happylifeagenda.com/podcasts/ https://www.instagram.com/happylifeagenda/ ----------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
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| The Power of Intuition: How Dina Berrin Left Fitness To Teach Tarot | #222 | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:32:30 | |
Feeling out of alignment in your life or career? In this episode, host and business coach for women Shannon Russell sits down with Dina Berrin, former fitness pro and staffing leader turned intuitive life coach, to share how she transformed a long corporate chapter into a purpose-driven second act. Dina reveals how tarot, numerology, astrology, and her original charm reading method help clients dissolve limiting beliefs, reconnect with their authentic selves, and step into their full potential. If you’re a woman in midlife craving a career change, a more soul-aligned business, or a clear path to your next chapter, this conversation is your roadmap. Key Takeaways
SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/222 Connect with Dina Berrin: https://www.instagram.com/dinaberrin/ ------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Laid Off to Lifted Up: Aransas Savas on Building “The Uplifters” and creating Courage Capital | #221 | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:42:41 | |
What if a layoff is the nudge you needed to quit corporate, start a business, and design a second-act career you actually love? In this inspiring conversation on episode #221 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Aransas Savas—innovation leader turned coach, community builder, and host of The Uplifters—shares how losing her role at Weight Watchers became the catalyst to redefine success, create flexible income, and prioritize a life that fits. We dive into career change after layoffs, how to leverage your network, and Aransas’s framework for building “courage capital” so you can take bold, confident action—whether that means launching a business, starting a podcast, creating a community, or pivoting roles. If you’re craving purpose, freedom, and fulfillment, this episode is your roadmap to a second act. Key Takeaways
Show Notes: https://secondactsuccess.co/221 Connect with Aransas Savas: https://www.aransassavas.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/aransas_savas/ ----------------------------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| LEGO Serious Play for Teams: Hands-On Strategy, Team Building, and Leadership Development | #220 | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:19:42 | |
Turning Creativity into Cash Flow: How LEGO Serious Play Became a Powerful Tool for Team Building—And an Extra Revenue Stream in My Business. Looking for a fresh way to boost team communication, collaboration, and problem-solving? In this short, power-packed episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell, business coach and certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, shares how this additional business arm to her business turns meetings into momentum. She talks about how you can think outside of the box when it comes to taking your passions and turning them into aspects of your business. Learn how hands-on, brains-on building with LEGO bricks drives 100% participation, sparks innovation, and accelerates strategic planning across industries (hospitals, pharmacueticals, nonprofits, tech, education, and more). You’ll hear Shannon’s pivot from working in the entertainment industry to entrepreneurship, how she integrated LEGO SERIOUS PLAY workshops into her business, and exactly why this approach outperforms traditional meetings for leadership development, culture building, change management, and project planning. Key takeaways:
What are additional revenue streams you can consider to add onto your business offerings? This episode of the Second Act Success Podcast will get you thinking! If you want to learn more and book your own custom workshop for your team, learn more at https://secondactsuccess.co/corporate. SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/220 -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Write the Book That Builds Your Brand: Amy Vogel on Publishing in Your 40s | #219 | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:31:54 | |
Want to write a book but don’t know where to start, or whether to self-publish vs. traditional? In this episode of Second Act Success, host Shannon Russell talks with Amy Vogel, who went from tech sales and then spent years as a pastor before publishing 5 books and now working as a women’s book coach. If you are thinking about turning your story into a brand-building book that clarifies your message, motivation, and mindset, this episode is a must listen. Amy shares her journey to publishing her first book at age 42, why more women are choosing self-publishing, and how a book can become your business centerpiece, instead of a stressful side project. If you’re a midlife creator, coach, consultant, or entrepreneur ready to finally write your book, this conversation is your roadmap. Key Takeaways:
SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/219 Connect with Amy Vogel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amywvogel/ ---------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Validate Your Business Idea: Research, Test, and Launch With Confidence | #218 | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:13:57 | |
Have you ever wondered if your business idea is really worth pursuing? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell, business coach and author of Start Your Second Act, breaks down exactly why validating your business idea is one of the most important steps you can take before launching. Key takeaways:
Whether you’re dreaming of leaving your 9–5, starting a side hustle, or building your full-time business, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to validate your idea and launch with clarity. 👉 Tune in to learn how to stop guessing, start validating, and build the business that truly fits your life and lights you up. SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/218 Join Shannon's How To Start The Right Business live coaching experience October 21, October 28, and November 4. https://secondactsuccess.co/experience. -------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| Kombucha to Confidence Coaching: How Jess West Rebuilt Her Life and Business | #217 | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:27:38 | |
Imagine waking up in a hospital bed, being told you have three days to live and that you’ll never work, live independently, or finish school again. For Jess West, that devastating moment became the turning point that changed everything. In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Jess to discuss her incredible journey from surviving a life-threatening car accident to creating a thriving business focused on mindset, mindfulness, and helping others share their stories. Jess shares how she went from launching a kombucha company to founding Tresor House, an online business that empowers entrepreneurs to find their voice, start their podcast, and rewire their mindset for lasting success. Her story is about resilience, reinvention, and creating a second act that lights you up. If you’ve ever wondered how to start over after life throws you off course, or if you’ve been holding yourself back from chasing a dream, this episode will inspire you to take that first step. Key Takeaways:
SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/217 Connect with Jess West: https://www.instagram.com/jessicalmwest https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/feminineinitiate/ -------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||
| What Business Should You Start? How to Choose the Right Business Idea | #216 | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:11:45 | |
One of the biggest questions every aspiring entrepreneur faces is: “What kind of business should I start?” In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell, business coach for women and author of Start Your Second Act, helps you answer that question with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways:
Whether you’re ready to leave your 9–5, launch a side hustle, or create a business that lights you up, this episode will help you narrow down your options and pick the right path for your entrepreneurial journey. 👉 Tune in now to discover how to choose the best business idea for YOU and your second act! SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/216 Join Shannon's How To Start The Right Business live coaching experience October 21, October 28, and November 4. https://secondactsuccess.co/experience. ------- -------- Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn
Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) (*Some affiliate links) | |||