Episode 21: What Most Career Coaches Get WRONG About Career Breaks

This episode is a rant with purpose. Katrina McGhee is back on the mic to call out the outdated, fear-driven, and downright misguided advice often handed out by traditional career coaches when it comes to taking a career break.

From staying “relevant” to upskilling nonstop and obsessing over your resume during a break — Katrina and James tear into these myths and explain why it’s time to re-center your break around YOU, not your job.

If you’ve ever felt guilty for wanting time off, or unsure how to “justify” your break, this episode is the permission slip and pep talk you didn’t know you needed.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• You’re not taking a break to become a better cog in the machine — you’re taking it to live a better life.

• Let go of productivity guilt and give yourself permission to truly disconnect.

• Reframing your career break as a life investment shifts the whole narrative.

• Not every moment of your break needs to serve your next job — it should serve you.

🎧 In This Episode

• Why career coaches often give bad advice about career breaks

• The problem with “staying connected to your network” during time off

• Why obsessing over your resume and professional development defeats the purpose of a break

• The myth of “falling behind” in your industry — and what to focus on instead

• How to deal with unsolicited job offers or pressure from your LinkedIn network

• The power of real rest, reflection, and self-guided growth

• Why you don’t need to justify your break to anyone

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Intro: Welcome to the Rant Episode
James and Katrina set the tone for today’s discussion—myth-busting common (and harmful) career break advice.

01:28 – The Truth About “Staying Connected” to Your Network
Why trying to stay visible on LinkedIn during your break is a mistake—and what to do instead.

04:56 – Dealing with Job Offers and Messages While on Break
How to handle messages from recruiters or coworkers while you’re trying to disconnect.

07:05 – The “Stay Up to Date” Trap
Why obsessing over your industry during your break defeats the purpose—and how to reframe what “falling behind” really means.

10:07 – The Pressure to Upskill Immediately
Katrina unpacks why you don’t need to jump into courses or certifications right away—and how to tell if self-improvement is coming from fear or curiosity.

14:37 – Resume Justification is Overrated
Stop designing your break for your future boss—what to do instead of chasing resume-worthy activities.

17:30 – Final Thoughts: Center Yourself, Not Your Job
Katrina’s closing message about why you deserve a break centered on you—not productivity, optics, or career milestones.

19:53 – BreakSpace Community Call-Out
Find your people! Katrina introduces BreakSpace, her career break coaching and community platform.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🎙️ Episode 20 – How to Talk About Your Career Break
📘 Hosted by James Hammond & Katrina McGhee, Career Break and Sabbatical Coach

Show Summary:
In this episode, Katrina McGhee, author of Taking a Career Break for Dummies and co-founder of BreakSpace, joins host James Hammond to dive deep into a challenge many career breakers face—how to talk about your career break confidently and authentically. Whether you're planning a break, currently on one, or returning to the workforce, this episode explores powerful mindset shifts and strategies to overcome judgment, doubt, and social pressure.

From pre-break anxiety and awkward conversations to managing "What’s next?" questions during the break, Katrina shares real-world tips and a proven 4-step framework for navigating difficult conversations. Tune in for empowering advice that helps you own your decision and find the right words to articulate your break with clarity and pride.

💡 Key Takeaways & Topics Covered:

• How to prepare for conversations before, during, and after a career break

• Why career breaks feel unconventional—and why that’s okay

• The psychology behind fear of judgment and self-doubt

• What to do when people give unsolicited advice about job searching

• Using intentional language to own your decision

• The power of a “purpose statement” and identifying your themes

• How to answer “What’s next for you?” when you don’t have all the answers

• Reframing curiosity as opportunity, not judgment

• Building inner confidence before external conversations

🧠 Katrina’s 4-Step Framework to Navigate Career Break Conversations:

• Build your confidence and conviction – Understand why you took the break and its benefits.

• Own your decision – Speak with intention, not apology.

• Craft your go-to statement – Use your break's purpose to explain your choice clearly.

• Avoid waiting for validation – Surround yourself with supportive communities like BreakSpace.

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro to the show and topic
01:30 – Why talking about your career break is so challenging
03:50 – Common fears: judgment, shame, and uncertainty
05:40 – Navigating pushback before you start your break
09:30 – What to say when people ask, “What do you do?”
11:00 – Dealing with unsolicited advice and job suggestions
13:30 – How people’s reactions reflect their own limiting beliefs
15:00 – Katrina’s 4-step framework for confidently talking about your break
18:50 – Why you don’t need external validation
20:40 – Final thoughts and mindset reminders

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Thanks for listening!

🎙 Episode 11: Scared-Cited – The Emotion of Taking Big Risks

Welcome back to the podcast! In this short but powerful episode, host James Hammond and career break expert Katrina McGhee dive into the concept of "Scared-Cited"—a mix of being scared and excited at the same time. If you're facing a big life decision, a career break, or a major shift, this episode will help you understand why this feeling is completely normal.

🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ What is "Scared-Cited"? – Understanding the mix of fear and excitement when taking big leaps.

✔️ Real-Life Examples – Katrina shares how she felt "scared-cited" when quitting her job to travel and when launching a business partnership.

✔️ James' Take – A surprising realization about why he's rarely felt scared and how that might change.

✔️ Why It's a Good Sign – How "Scared-Cited" means you’re growing, pushing boundaries, and betting on yourself.

✔️ The Money vs. Time Debate – Why success can become a trap and how time is the ultimate currency.

🛑 Thinking about taking a big leap? Whether it's quitting your job, traveling the world, or making a major life change, feeling "scared-cited" is completely normal—and even a good thing!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🚀 Next Episode: Episode 12 – How to tell you are on a fake break?

💬 Join the Conversation! Got career break questions or success stories? Please drop a comment or send us a message or email!

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review – If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow us and share with a friend!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙 Episode 10: The 3B Framework – How Burnout, Betrayal, and Blossom Shape Career Breaks

Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode, host James Hammond sits down with career break and life coach Katrina McGhee to discuss the 3B Framework—Burnout, Betrayal, and Blossom. If you've ever felt the urge to take a break but weren’t sure why or how, this episode is for you!

🔹 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ Burnout – Why modern life makes burnout the default and how taking a break can help you reset.

✔️ Betrayal – The hidden cost of staying in misaligned careers and how to reclaim your values.

✔️ Blossom – Why stepping away can help you create a richer, more fulfilling life.

✔️ The "Mega B" Factor – How balance ties everything together and why it’s the key to sustainable success.

✔️ Travel & Career Breaks – Where does travel fit into the 3B Framework?

🛑 Feeling burned out, stuck, or unfulfilled? This conversation will help you understand your motivations and take the first step toward meaningful change.

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🚀 Next Episode: Episode 11 – Is it a privilege to be on a career break?

💬 Join the Conversation! Got career break questions or success stories? Please drop a comment or send us a message or email!

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review – If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow us and share with a friend!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

📖 Featured Topic: Page 284 of Taking a Career Break by Katrina McGhee

After taking time off, what happens next? In this episode, James and Katrina discuss the biggest fears people face when returning from a career break: money, perception, and career. They also discuss practical strategies for financial planning, dealing with self-doubt, and making a successful career comeback. Plus, Katrina shares real-life client stories of people who turned their career breaks into life-changing opportunities—some even doubling their salaries!

✅ Money Matters After a Break – How to plan financially, avoid debt, and set up a reentry fund

✅ Handling Perception & Judgment – What will people think when you return? How to frame your break as an asset, not a setback

✅ Career Break Success Stories – Inspiring examples of people who landed better jobs, career changes, and flexible work setups after a break

✅ Lessons Learned from Taking a Break – Why resistance isn’t always bad, and how to trust your instincts when new opportunities arise

📊 66% of career breakers return to the same field – but with more clarity, confidence, and sometimes a higher salary!

💡 Many career breakers land unexpected dream jobs, start their own businesses or create flexible work-life setups they never imagined

🛠 Tactical Tips – How to prepare for reentry, maintain financial stability, and handle career uncertainty

Thinking about a career break? Write down 25 benefits you’d gain from stepping away—even small ones like getting better sleep or reconnecting with family. This exercise can help you see the value of taking time off.

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🚀 Next Episode: Episode 10 – The Three Big B’s Framework (Teaser: It’s a mindset shift that changes how you approach life and work!)

💬 Join the Conversation! Got career break questions or success stories? Please drop a comment or send us a message or email!

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review – If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow us and share with a friend!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lyndall and Katrina have opened the second-ever sign-up to BreakSpace, and this is your chance to join this new, exciting group for your break.

Head to BreakSpace to reserve your spot today!

At the time of recording, you have until Sunday, 8th December EOD, to sign up, but if you miss the boat, don't worry. There will be more openings next year, but you will need to watch this space!

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, James and Katrina discuss their personal updates, the growing movement around career breaks, and the success of BreakSpace. They explore how the pandemic has shifted perspectives on work-life balance and the increasing acceptance of taking breaks. Katrina shares exciting news about BreakSpace's growth and the positive impact it's having on its members. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the podcast's growth and listener engagement.

Note—this was recorded on a whim while James was in Antigua, Guatemala, so James's sound is not 100%, but Katrina sounds great.

Takeaways

• There's a growing movement around taking career breaks.
• COVID has shifted perspectives on work-life balance.
• People are realizing the benefits of taking breaks.
• BreakSpace has seen significant growth and engagement.
• The community aspect of BreakSpace is impactful.
• Katrina and her partner sold out their first cohort in two days.
• 100% retention rate indicates strong member satisfaction.
• More people are planning for breaks in their lives.
• The podcast is gaining traction and breaking into charts.
• Listeners are resonating with the themes of the podcast.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

02:15 The Growing Movement of Career Breaks

07:18 BreakSpace: Updates and Success Stories

12:32 Podcast Growth and Listener Engagement

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Katrina McGhee and James Hammond discuss the importance of establishing a morning routine during a career break, emphasizing the need for self-care and personal pleasure. They explore how to structure free time effectively, balance productivity with rest, and the significance of celebrating small achievements to foster a sense of success and fulfilment.

Takeaways

A morning routine sets the tone for your day.

It's essential to create a practice that feels nurturing and accessible.

Self-care should be about what feels good, not what you feel you should do.

Pleasure should be integrated into your morning routine.

Rest is a crucial part of productivity and creativity.

Celebrating small achievements helps reinforce a sense of success.

Structuring free time can help balance productivity and relaxation.

Time allotments can help manage responsibilities and personal projects.

It's important to be honest with yourself about your needs and desires.

Finding joy in the process is key to maintaining motivation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks and Morning Routines

10:10 Structuring Free Time and Balancing Productivity

18:09 The Importance of Rest and Celebration in Productivity

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Katrina McGhee discusses the essential aspects of taking a career break, focusing on what not to do. She emphasizes the importance of fully disconnecting from work, setting intentions for the break, allowing oneself to rest without guilt, and reframing the break as a valuable asset rather than a red flag. The conversation provides insights into making the most of a career break for personal growth and fulfilment.

Takeaways

Don't stay connected to work during your break.

Set aside time to reflect on your break and goals.

You don't have to earn your right to rest.

Your break can be an asset, not a liability.

Take time to understand your new non-negotiables.

Disconnecting fully allows for true restoration.

A reentry period is crucial for clarity.

Reflect on what you learned during your break.

Your break can make you a more interesting candidate.

Embrace your break as a positive experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

00:30 The Importance of Disconnecting from Work

05:04 Setting Intentions for Your Break

07:55 The Right to Rest

12:03 Reframing Your Break as an Asset

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.breakspacecrew.com

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of 'Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee', Katrina discusses the transformative power of taking a career break and the importance of sharing your news with others. She emphasizes the need for a purpose statement to articulate the reasons behind the break and how to frame the conversation positively. The episode includes real-life experiences and insights on how to navigate the process of giving notice at work, ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining relationships.

Takeaways

• Sharing your news helps set a positive tone for your break.
• A purpose statement is essential for articulating your reasons for taking a break.
• Focusing on what you want to move towards invites support from others.
• Framing your break positively can help you maintain good relationships.
• Giving ample notice is crucial for leaving on good terms.
• Real-life experiences show that giving notice often goes better than expected.
• Being honest about your needs can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Aligning your actions with your words builds a solid foundation for your exit.
• Encouragement from others can inspire you to take the leap.

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.breakspacecrew.com

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Katrina and James discuss the importance of budgeting for a career break, emphasizing the need for a well-thought-out financial plan that includes emergency funds and ongoing expenses. They explore the concept of viewing a career break as an investment in personal well-being and fulfilment, encouraging listeners to reflect on their financial readiness and the true costs of taking a break. The conversation highlights the significance of intentional spending and the necessity of preparing for the break and reentry into the workforce.

Takeaways

Budgeting is crucial for a successful career break.

Consider all potential expenses, including emergencies.

Separate your finances into different buckets for clarity.

Discipline in spending helps maintain your budget.

View your career break as an investment in yourself.

Prepare for the reentry period after your break.

Intention in spending can lead to better financial decisions.

Reflect on what you truly want from your career break.

Emergency funds are essential for unexpected situations.

It's important to ask if you can afford a break.

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.breakspacecrew.com

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGee, podcast host James Hammond and career break coach Katrina dive into the essentials of planning your time off. They discuss how to decide what to do on your career break, the importance of aligning your goals with your personal priorities, and offer practical travel tips for those looking to take an extended trip. Katrina emphasizes the value of creating a clear purpose and themes for your break to ensure it’s meaningful and successful. They also explore the financial implications of fast vs. slow travel and how careful planning can help make a career break more affordable. This episode is the first part of a two-part series, with the second half focusing on budgeting for your break. Tune in for tips on how to make your career break a fulfilling and cost-effective experience!

Takeaways

• Social media can create unrealistic expectations about career breaks.
• Mid-career individuals may feel financially constrained from taking breaks.
• Having a plan is crucial for a successful career break.
• Understanding personal goals helps in deciding activities for the break.
• Prioritizing experiences can enhance the quality of the break.
• Slow travel can significantly reduce costs.
• Researching destinations helps in budgeting effectively.
• Accommodations can vary greatly in price depending on the season.
• Joining a community can provide support for career breakers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

01:03 Understanding the Financial Implications

04:46 Deciding What to Do on Your Break

07:35 The Importance of Travel Planning

12:00 Budgeting for Your Travel Experience

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.breakspacecrew.com

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Episode 19 – Letting Go of Career Break Expectations: Why 3 Months Is the Magic Number

What happens when your career break doesn’t go as planned?
You take time off expecting to feel restored, get fit, maybe write that book, or finally tick off a bucket list goal… but a few months in, you’re still exhausted, overwhelmed, or nowhere near those expectations. In this episode, James sits down with career break coach Katrina McGhee to unpack the emotional rollercoaster of taking time off — and why letting go of rigid expectations is the key to actually enjoying and growing from the experience.

From navigating burnout recovery to embracing mid-break pivots, Katrina shares real stories and strategies from her coaching clients who’ve hit that classic three-month wall. Whether you’ve taken a sabbatical, a travel break, or a professional pause, this episode dives deep into what it really looks like to redefine productivity, honor your energy, and recalibrate your plans when reality doesn’t match the dream.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the three-month mark is a powerful turning point during a break

• The common traps people fall into (like turning your break into another job!)

• How to recalibrate when things don’t go to plan

• The difference between vacation and a real career break

• Why changing your timeline—or your goals—isn’t failure, it’s growth

• How to handle guilt when your productivity doesn’t match your expectations

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & Welcome

03:50 – The Link Between Exercise, Energy, and Productivity

05:15 – Setting the Stage: What This Episode is About

06:40 – The 3 Key Tension Points of a Career Break

08:00 – The 3-Month Magic Mark

10:00 – How Long Should a Break Be?

11:30 – The Danger of “Productivity Pressure” During a Break

13:40 – Changing the Plan is Not Failing

15:30 – Rewriting Your Expectations Midway Through

17:20 – Changing Your Break Timeline

19:30 – Unrealistic Expectations Going In

20:45 – Final Thoughts & A Golden Rule

21:46 – Outro & BreakSpace Invitation

✨ Whether you’re burned out, plotting a pivot, or simply curious about extended time off, this episode is a must-listen.

📣 “Don’t turn your break into a job!” — Learn what Katrina really means by this and how to avoid that major mistake.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Katrina’s work and BreakSpace: www.gobreakspace.com⁠

• Listen to our past episode on navigating the ups and downs of a break: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/taking-a-career-break-with-katrina-mcghee/id1772602758?i=1000703812606

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  
  

  Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

  Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

  Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

In this episode, Katrina McGhee and James Hammond discuss the transformative power of taking a career break. They explore the reasons why individuals seek new career paths or self-employment, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. The conversation delves into the potential opportunities that arise during a break, including professional development, networking, and self-employment. They also address the risks of combining passion with work and outline various post-break options for achieving a fulfilling career.

Takeaways

• Many people seek change when their current path no longer fulfills them.
• COVID-19 intensified feelings of burnout and dissatisfaction.
• A career break can provide time for reflection and exploration.
• Professional development should be a focus during a break.
• Networking can lead to new opportunities and ideas.
• Self-employment can be explored during a career break.
• Combining passion with work can lead to challenges.
• Post-break options include part-time work and semi-retirement.
• It's important to prioritize rest and restoration at the beginning of a break.
• Life is too short to remain in unfulfilling jobs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

01:23 The Desire for Change

05:24 Exploring New Possibilities

10:09 Navigating Self-Employment

14:38 Post-Break Options and Strategies

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inaugural episode of 'Taking a Career Break With Katrina McGhee', host James Hammond introduces Katrina McGee, a career break and sabbatical coach. They discuss the unsustainable pace of work culture, Katrina's transformative 20-month career break, and the motivation behind her book. The podcast aims to provide insights and real-life examples to help listeners navigate their own career breaks, emphasizing the importance of mental and logistical preparation. James shares his background and the collaborative nature of the podcast, which is designed to be both informative and engaging.

Takeaways

• High achievers often feel burned out and unfulfilled.
• Katrina took a 20-month career break that changed her life.
• The podcast aims to help listeners navigate career breaks.
• Conversations can be more impactful than reading.
• Katrina's book shares client stories and actionable insights.
• The podcast will explore various aspects of taking a break.
• James has travelled extensively and shares his experiences.
• The vibe of the podcast is upbeat and fun.
• Listeners can expect anecdotes and structured advice.
• The goal is to keep episodes fresh and engaging.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

03:13 Katrina's Journey and Motivation

06:02 The Purpose of the Podcast

08:55 James's Background and Perspective

10:47 Conclusion and Future Episodes

Need help with your break? Katrina’s got you covered. Book a coaching session today, join BreakSpace - the new career break community, or check out Katrina's book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Welcome to the Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee podcast trailer. 

Each week, there will be episodes on the different facets of taking a career break from Katrina's book with Dummies entitled - Taking a Career Break for Dummies.

We will dissect one little portion of a specific chapter or subchapter to dive deep into crucial topics for you to plan your career break.

If you need help, no need to worry—Katrina is at hand. Book a coaching session today or simply check out Katrina's website and book below. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Katrina McGhee's website - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/  

Book your coaching sessions - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

BreakSpace - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 18 - How to navigate the ups and downs of a career break

In this episode, career break coach Katrina McGhee and host James Hammond explore the complex journey of taking a career break. From the exhilarating highs of newfound freedom to the unexpected lows of self-doubt and life’s curveballs, they unpack it all. Katrina shares strategies to navigate these phases effectively, ensuring your break becomes a transformative experience rather than a source of frustration.

Tune in to discover actionable tips, including Katrina’s Plan A and Plan B framework, the value of self-acceptance, and how to confront the parts of yourself that may be holding you back. Whether you're contemplating a break, currently on one, or returning from one, this episode is packed with insights to guide you through every stage.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Emotional Landscape of a Career Break

• Understanding the "mountain and valley" metaphor: The transition from a high-achieving lifestyle to the liminal space of self-discovery.

• Why career breaks aren’t all sunshine and rainbows—and why that’s okay.

• Practical Strategies for Navigating Challenges:

• Plan A vs. Plan B Days: Structuring your time to honor both high-energy and low-energy days.

• Meeting Yourself Where You Are: Tips for practicing self-acceptance during periods of rest or uncertainty.

• Dealing with Setbacks:

• Coping with unexpected challenges like grief, financial stress, or health crises during a break.

• Recognising and addressing self-sabotaging behaviours, including over-scheduling or excessive people-pleasing.

• Powerful Mindset Shifts:

• Understanding “parts work” and using it to manage internal conflicts.

• Why slowing down and embracing quiet moments can lead to personal breakthroughs.

• Reconnecting with Purpose:

• Avoiding distractions and busywork that detract from the meaningful aspects of your break.

• Realigning your actions with the life and person you aspire to be.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro and episode overview
00:39 - Career breaks and the “first mountain, second mountain” metaphor
03:27 - Emotional highs and lows of breaks
05:23 - Burnout recovery isn’t linear
09:04 - Challenges like grief, health, and finances
11:00 - Plan A vs. Plan B days framework
14:45 - The journey of self-acceptance
18:40 - Parts work and managing internal conflicts
21:59 - Stop hiding and avoiding discomfort
24:51 - Aligned choices: hard yeses vs. easy nos
26:23 - Closing thoughts and next episode preview
26:52 - Call to action: Join BreakSpace

Key Quotes:

• “Life doesn’t have rules; it’s always going to ‘life.’ Your career break isn’t exempt from that.” – Katrina McGhee

• “A break removes layers of distraction and validation, giving you space to meet yourself as you are today.” – Katrina McGhee

• “Stop hiding behind busywork and meet the challenge of being with yourself.” – James Hammond

Resources Mentioned:

• BreakSpace Community: A supportive hub for career breakers and sabbatical takers. Visit BreakSpaceCrew.com.

• Katrina’s Book: Taking a Career Break for Dummies.

Join the Conversation:
Have you experienced the ups and downs of a career break? Share your thoughts and questions on social media with #CareerBreakJourney.

This is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, rest, or a fresh start! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast wherever you tune in.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🎙 Episode 17: Is It Time for a Second Career Break? Yes, and Here's Why

Description:
You took the leap once—and now you're thinking about doing it again. In this episode, host James Hammond and career break coach Katrina McGhee dive into the powerful (and totally normal) desire to take a second career break. Whether you're feeling burned out again, misaligned in your career path, or simply craving a deeper life reset, this episode gives you full permission to pause—again.

Katrina shares personal stories and client experiences that reveal why one sabbatical is often just the beginning of a more intentional, balanced, and fulfilling life. Plus, we unpack the difference between short vs. long breaks, how the second break hits differently, and how to navigate the logistics (and self-doubt) that come with doing it all over again.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Perfect For You If You’re…

✅ Feeling unfulfilled after your first return to work
✅ Wondering if it’s “crazy” to hit pause again
✅ Looking to reclaim your time, energy, and purpose
✅ Curious how to build a break-friendly lifestyle
✅ Craving more travel, rest, or clarity in your life or business

📚 Resources Mentioned:

💬 Join the Conversation:
Have you taken a second career break—or are you thinking about it? DM us or tag us @TakingACareerBreak to share your story.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome + Why We’re Talking Second Career Breaks
James and Katrina introduce the episode and share why the topic of a second career break is more common (and necessary) than people think.

01:25 – What Happens After Your First Career Break
Katrina explains how clients often return for another break—and why it's not just burnout, but a deeper desire for alignment.

03:10 – The Fear of Wanting Another Break
Is it “crazy” to want a second sabbatical before your first one even ends? Katrina shares why this is normal and how she addresses it in her book.

04:50 – Different Kinds of Second Breaks
From quick resets to total life pivots—how second breaks can look very different from the first.

06:52 – Katrina’s Two Breaks: A Personal Comparison
She shares how her meticulously planned first break and her spontaneous second one each brought unique lessons and healing.

10:30 – After the Second Break: What Changed
Katrina reflects on her mindset after returning from break #2 and how it reshaped her life and business.

13:27 – How to Know If It’s Time for Another Break
What signs to look for when your life or career feels misaligned—even after a previous pause.

14:28 – Building a Life That Welcomes Breaks
Why breaks aren’t one-time events, and how to integrate rest, healing, and freedom into your long-term lifestyle.

15:02 – Parting Advice: Normalize the Second Break
Final words of encouragement: You’re not broken. You’re evolving—and it’s okay to pause as often as you need to.

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Are you stuck in grind culture, pushing through exhaustion, and ignoring the signs that your pain tolerance might be holding you back from taking a much-needed career break? Many professionals pride themselves on resilience, endurance, and mental toughness, but when does persistence turn into burnout? If you've ever felt guilty about stepping away from work or worried about how a career sabbatical could impact your future, this episode is for you.

We’re diving into the psychology of pain tolerance and career decisions, exploring why high achievers often struggle with taking breaks, even when their physical, emotional, and mental health are at risk.

We’ll break down:

✅ How pain tolerance, resilience, and workaholism are interconnected

✅ The hidden dangers of pushing through exhaustion and ignoring burnout

✅ Why some people feel guilty about taking a sabbatical or career pause

✅ The impact of mental toughness on work-life balance and long-term success

✅ Real-life stories of professionals who took a career break and came back stronger

✅ Practical steps to assess your limits and know when it’s time to step back

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

02:49 Understanding Pain Tolerance

06:14 The Importance of Self-Awareness

09:02 The Consequences of High Pain Tolerance

11:52 Personal Stories of Pain Tolerance

15:09 Strategies for Building Self-Awareness

18:01 The Role of Breaks in Health and Well-being

Whether you’re considering a career transition, gap year, job hiatus, or full career reset, understanding your pain threshold and mindset is key to making healthy career decisions. If you’ve been hesitating to take time off, this conversation will help you reframe career breaks as a power move, not a setback.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Featuring: Katrina McGhee & James Hammond

Is taking a break from work a selfish act, or is it actually one of the best things you can do for yourself—and those around you? In this episode, career break coach Katrina McGhee challenges the guilt and stigma surrounding sabbaticals. We dive into why so many professionals struggle with the idea of stepping away, how career breaks can actually strengthen relationships, and why prioritizing your well-being isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

🔥 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✔️ Why people feel guilty about taking career breaks

✔️ How taking time off can improve your relationships, career, and mental health

✔️ The surprising role partners and families play in career break decisions

✔️ Real stories of people who took sabbaticals—and how it changed their lives

✔️ The mindset shift you need to stop feeling guilty about rest

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

00:41 The Guilt Around Taking a Career Break

02:06 Reframing Selfishness: The Royal Inheritance Analogy

04:51 Real-Life Testimonial: The Client Who Changed His Family's Life

06:47 Gender Dynamics in Career Breaks

11:18 The Ripple Effect of a Career Break

12:36 Final Thoughts: Career Breaks Are a Gift, Not a Luxury

💡 Key Takeaway: Taking care of yourself doesn’t just benefit you—it creates a ripple effect that positively impacts your family, career, and community.

🎧 Listen now and start thinking differently about work, rest, and balance!

🔗 Resources & Links:

👉 Follow Katrina McGhee – Career Break Coach

👉 Join the BreakSpace Community – A support network for people planning sabbaticals

👉 Connect with James Hammond – Podcast Host

📢 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who needs to hear this! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever dreamed of taking a career break but don’t know how to afford it? In this episode, we’re diving into smart money-saving strategies to help you fund your career break, sabbatical, or long-term travel—without financial stress.

Katrina McGhee, a career break coach, shares how she saved $40,000 in just 18 months and the exact steps you can follow to do the same. Whether you’re looking to travel the world, take a mental health break, or pivot careers, these proven budgeting and saving tips will set you up for success.

✅ How to track your spending and uncover hidden money leaks

✅ The power of budgeting with intention to maximize savings

✅ Where to put your money – high-yield savings accounts & lump sum strategies

✅ The importance of an exploration fund to stay motivated while saving

✅ How to shift from saving mode to actually taking your break

💡 Plus, Katrina shares how half of her savings came from lump sums—and how you can do it too!

Timestamps

🔹 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest, Katrina McGhee

🔹 00:47 – Overview: Saving $40,000 in 18 months for a career break

🔹 02:14 – Step 1: Track Your Spending – Why awareness is key

🔹 04:10 – The mindset shift: Being honest about spending habits

🔹 06:06 – Step 2: Budget & Align Your Spending – Setting realistic financial goals

🔹 08:05 – Step 3: Save Lump Sums – How bonuses, refunds & windfalls accelerate savings

🔹 09:08 – The importance of putting money away immediately

🔹 10:44 – Step 4: Create an Exploration Fund – Avoiding burnout while saving

🔹 13:11 – Why an exploration fund makes life more enjoyable

🔹 14:28 – Step 5: Celebrate Your Progress – The importance of tracking milestones

🔹 16:30 – Step 6: Give Yourself Permission to Spend on Joy & Wellbeing

🔹 18:09 – Episode wrap-up and key takeaways

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚀 Episode 13: Is Taking a Break a Privilege? 🚀

In this thought-provoking episode, James Hammond and Katrina McGhee dive deep into the debate around career breaks. Is stepping away from work truly a privilege, or is it something anyone can achieve with the right mindset and planning?

🎙 In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ Why career breaks are often seen as an exclusive luxury

✅ The unintended consequences of calling breaks an “extreme privilege”

✅ How Katrina saved for her sabbatical—even with debt and a modest salary

✅ Strategies to take a break, even with financial or family responsibilities

✅ The mindset shift needed to make a career break possible

⏳ Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: James and Katrina introduce the topic: Is taking a break really a privilege?

01:13 – The Privilege Myth: Breaking down the idea that only the wealthy can take career breaks.

03:47 – The Power of Mindset: How changing your perspective can make a break possible.

04:45 – Why You Should Stop Disclaimering Career Breaks: How calling them an “extreme privilege” discourages others.

06:38 – Taking a Break as a Radical Act: Why stepping away from work challenges societal norms.

08:02 – The "Trust Fund" Assumption: Katrina shares how people assumed she had a trust fund to afford her break.

10:41 – The Numbers Don’t Lie: How little time a career break actually takes in a lifetime of work.

14:42 – The Importance of Resourcefulness: How Katrina saved money despite debt and financial challenges.

16:37 – The Role of Patience: Why planning and delayed gratification are key.

18:33 – Final Thoughts: Encouragement to take a break without disclaimers and give yourself credit.

💡 If you've ever dreamed of taking a sabbatical but thought, "I could never afford that," this episode is for you!

🔗 Join the Conversation:

Tag @KatrinaMcGhee on LinkedIn with your career break announcement—but skip the disclaimers!

👉 Like, subscribe, and share this episode to inspire others to rethink what’s possible!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think you’re on a break? Think again! In this episode, Katrina McGhee breaks down the five biggest signs that your career break might not be a real break at all. If you're still job searching, networking, or overscheduling your days—chances are, you’re on a fake break. Don’t let fear, guilt, or bad habits keep you from the rest and reset you truly need!

✅ 5 signs you’re on a fake break (and how to fix them!)

✅ Why job hunting too soon ruins your break

✅ The hidden dangers of overscheduling your time off

✅ How to set boundaries with work, networking, and obligations

✅ The secret to designing a break that actually works

⏳ 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction

⏳ 02:37 - What is a "fake break"?

⏳ 04:26 - Sign #1: Job searching too soon

⏳ 06:57 - Sign #2: Staying plugged into networking & LinkedIn

⏳ 09:30 - Sign #3: Overscheduling yourself

⏳ 12:22 - Sign #4: Filling your time with errands & chores

⏳ 14:44 - Sign #5: Designing a break for social media instead of yourself

⏳ 22:49 - How to fix a fake break & create a real one

⏳ 29:32 - Final thoughts & takeaways

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - https://www.beyondabreak.com/breakspace

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🚀 Next Episode: Episode 13 – Is it a privilege to take a career break?

💬 Join the Conversation! Got career break questions or success stories? Please drop a comment or send us a message or email!

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review – If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow us and share with a friend!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 22 - How Asking Better Questions Can Transform Your Career Break Experience

In this inspiring and deeply reflective episode, career break coach and author Katrina McGhee explores how the simple act of asking better questions can completely reshape your career break journey—and your life.

Drawing from personal experience, client stories, and her best-selling book Taking a Career Break for Dummies, Katrina reveals how curiosity and intentional inquiry can help you move through uncertainty, make empowered decisions, and create meaningful change.

Whether you're contemplating stepping away from your career, already on a sabbatical, or simply yearning for more clarity and purpose, this conversation will equip you with practical tools and mindset shifts to help you navigate what's next with more confidence, compassion, and courage.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

• Why curiosity is your most underrated tool during a career break

• Three life-changing questions Katrina used to shape her own journey

• How to reframe fear-based “what if” questions into empowering prompts

• Real-life examples from coaching clients navigating uncertainty

• How Katrina’s book Taking a Career Break for Dummies continues to impact readers worldwide

🔥 Episode Highlights:

• “What adventure will I have today?” – A daily mindset shift during saving for her break

• “What if this was divinely orchestrated?” – A perspective to tackle big goals and doubt

• “How is this working for me?” – Turning setbacks into growth opportunities

• Tactical advice for U.S.-based listeners worried about health insurance during a break

• Tips for replacing self-doubt with possibility

🎯 Perfect For:

• High achievers feeling unfulfilled or on the verge of burnout

• Anyone planning or currently on a career break or sabbatical

• Listeners seeking practical mindset tools to navigate change with intention

  
  

  Timestamps

  00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

  05:43 The Power of Asking Better Questions

  12:50 Reframing Challenges and Finding Opportunities

  19:53 Navigating Health Insurance Concerns

  25:53 Creating Lasting Change Post-Break

  
  

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

  
  

  Resources

  Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

  Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

  Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

  Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 24 - Why ‘Variation Creates Appreciation’—Essential Advice for Sabbatical Travel

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we dive into one of the most overlooked secrets of long-term travel: “Variation creates appreciation.” Katrina, career break coach and author of Taking a Career Break for Dummies, joins travel expert and podcast host James Hammond to discuss how embracing change, pacing yourself, and building intention into your travels can make your sabbatical or career break more enjoyable and sustainable.

We explore the real challenges of extended travel, from burnout and boredom to unexpected health issues and travel fatigue. Katrina shares her own experiences from the road, including that moment when even the most beautiful cathedrals started to blur together—and what she did to regain her sense of wonder. We also discuss the importance of varying your environment, whether that involves alternating between hostels and hotels or taking “real life” days off from sightseeing to relax, reset, and reconnect.

James offers his insights from years of constant travel, including a hilarious story of a friend who beat burnout in Bangkok by locking himself in a hostel with a video game console for two weeks. From practical tips on getting good rest and staying healthy while abroad, to the mindset shifts that help you appreciate the journey, this conversation is full of helpful takeaways for anyone planning a break from work to travel.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by too much adventure or wondered how to pace your travels during a sabbatical, this episode will give you tools to create more meaning, more balance, and yes—more appreciation through variation.

Plus, Katrina invites you to BreakSpace, her supportive new online community for career breakers and sabbatical takers. Join the crew at BrakeSpaceCrew.com and start planning a break that works for you, not against you.

In this episode, we cover:

• What “variation creates appreciation” really means for long-term travel

• How to avoid travel fatigue and burnout during your sabbatical

• The importance of mixing up hostels, hotels, and solo downtime

• How to maintain your physical and mental health while abroad

• Strategies for building intention and balance into your travel plans

• Funny real-life stories from James and Katrina’s own travel breaks

• Why taking “real life” days off from sightseeing can actually enhance your journey

• Tools and mindsets that help make your break more joyful and sustainable

  
  

  Timestamps

  00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

  00:32 Travelling During a Career Break

  01:53 Avoiding Travel Fatigue and Burnout

  04:54 Incorporating Regular Life into Travel

  07:15 Setting Intentions for Travel Days

  08:23 Health Considerations While Traveling

  11:58 Avoiding Boredom and Indifference

  
  

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

  
  

  Book a coaching session - ⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠

  Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - ⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠

  Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - ⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠

  Email - ⁠takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 23 - Learn How to Cope with Loneliness on a Career Break: Real Talk & Practical Tips

🌍 Taking a career break can be life-changing—but what happens when loneliness creeps in?

In this heartfelt and honest episode, Katrina and James dive into a topic that doesn’t get talked about enough: loneliness during a career break. Whether you're traveling the world solo or staying local while taking time off from work, the feeling of disconnection is real—and totally normal.

Katrina shares her own experiences and the fears she's heard from her clients, from solo backpacking in Southeast Asia to navigating the quiet moments when everyone else is busy with work and routines. James brings in the realities of solo travel and how it can be both freeing and isolating.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why loneliness hits harder during a break—even when you're surrounded by people

• The surprising difference between being alone vs. feeling lonely

• How solo travel can actually open more doors for connection

• The downsides of being glued to your phone while traveling

• Why couples or friend-group travel might limit spontaneity

• Katrina’s favorite 5 practical strategies to fight loneliness

• James’ bonus tips from the road: smile more, sit at the bar, and embrace guesthouses!

📌 Tips Mentioned in the Episode:

• Reconnect with loved ones during your break

• Sit at the bar instead of a table when dining out

• Take local tours (even in your hometown!)

• Volunteer for a cause that matters to you

• Walk, smile, and stay open to spontaneous interactions

• Choose social accommodation (hostels, guesthouses, homestays)

  
  

  Timestamps

  00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

  00:33 Understanding Loneliness During Breaks

  03:03 Traveling Solo: Embracing Connections

  09:03 Building Community and Combatting Loneliness

  10:51 Practical Tips for Overcoming Loneliness

  
  

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

  
  

  Book a coaching session - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

  Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

  Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

  Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 30 - Why Routines Matter on a Career Break: Find Balance, Create Bedtime Habits & Have Regular Check-Ins

Taking a break from your career can feel expansive and freeing — but sometimes that much freedom can also feel overwhelming. In this episode, Katrina and I dive into the importance of routines and rhythms while on a career break or sabbatical. Whether you're a structure-loving planner or a go-with-the-flow traveller, adding a few intentional practices into your day can help you feel more grounded, present, and fulfilled.

We talk about the power of a solid morning routine, how to create bedtime habits that actually support your rest, and why checking in with yourself regularly can make your break more meaningful. We also share personal stories of what works (and doesn’t work) for us, and how to stay flexible and experiment with routines without losing the spontaneity of your time off.

Whether you're just starting your break or deep in the journey, this episode is packed with practical tools and insights to help you feel more balanced and intentional with your time.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to Episode 30!
01:00 – Celebrating podcast milestones (and dreaming of cake)
03:40 – Introducing today’s topic: routines and rhythms on a career break
04:30 – Why routines matter, even for the free-spirited
05:45 – The 3 key elements Katrina recommends for structure on a break
06:10 – Element 1: Morning routines – building small wins into your day
08:30 – Setting the tone for your day (and avoiding the doom scroll)
09:45 – Masculine vs. feminine energy approaches to mornings
12:20 – Morning routine tips: experiment, don’t overdo it, add pleasure
14:50 – Element 2: Bedtime habits & why your evening sets up your next day
15:45 – Tips for evening routines that support better sleep and rest
17:30 – Device boundaries and winding down without screens
19:30 – James shares his own nighttime routine (and love of TV)
20:00 – Katrina’s rule: the phone doesn’t go in bed!
21:00 – Element 3: Check in with yourself – reflect, observe, improve
22:30 – How to schedule check-ins and track what really matters to you
24:10 – What lessons is your break teaching you?
25:00 – A challenge to listeners: how solid is your routine?
25:30 – Share your routine with us – we’d love to hear it!

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 29 - Why Career Breaks Are the Key to Mental Health, Wellness & Radical Prioritization

In this honest and inspiring episode, Katrina McGhee and James Hammond dive deep into the emotional and physical realities of taking a career break to reclaim your mental health and overall wellness.

Katrina shares her powerful story of investing $6,000 into a health coaching program, losing 21 pounds, and building a life-changing routine centered on radical prioritization. From overcoming perimenopause symptoms to recovering from serious injuries, she reveals how focusing on health became her ultimate act of self-care.

James also opens up about his own wake-up call after a health scare led him to rethink his lifestyle and eating habits. Together, they reflect on how career breaks are not always about travel—they can be an essential tool to reset, heal, and build a better future.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or overwhelmed, this conversation will show you how raising the stakes and aligning your values can help you take that first powerful step. Whether you're dreaming of a break or already on one, you'll walk away with insight, motivation, and a few laughs along the way.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro to the show and episode overview
01:12 – Katrina shares how she’s really feeling lately
02:26 – Why inspiration and escape still matter in heavy times
03:27 – James becomes a Canadian citizen and reflects on the long journey
05:06 – Katrina's major health and wellness update begins
07:01 – The reality of perimenopause, setbacks, and self-doubt
08:43 – Health as a reason to take a break and Katrina’s client examples
09:34 – The importance of resetting your baseline for wellness
11:10 – Injuries, frozen shoulder, and the road to physical recovery
13:54 – Radical prioritization and sacrifice to achieve a big goal
15:45 – Why investing in yourself raises the stakes
18:57 – James shares his cholesterol scare and new fitness journey
21:22 – Different ways to raise the stakes to achieve life-changing results
24:34 – Aligning values, money, and mindset for your break
26:19 – Final thoughts and gratitude to listeners
27:28 – Join the BreakSpace community for your own transformative break

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🎙 Episode 28 – When to Job Hunt on a Career Break: Timing Your Reentry Right

In this insightful episode, Katrina McGhee and James Hammond explore one of the most common pitfalls for career breakers: job searching too soon. Drawing on Katrina’s experience as a career break and sabbatical coach, and James’s practical wisdom from years of international job hopping, this conversation gets honest about what it truly means to be ready to reenter the workforce.

Katrina shares her proven “1 for 6” rule, helping you understand how much time you should dedicate to reentry based on the length of your break. They also discuss how early job searching can create unnecessary stress and derail the purpose of your break entirely.

Whether you're currently on a sabbatical, planning one, or feeling anxious about what comes next, this episode is packed with practical strategies on compartmentalising your job search, building a reentry plan, managing expectations, and setting clear metrics to avoid burnout.

🎯 What You’ll Learn:

• Why starting the job hunt too early can backfire

• How to know when you’re actually ready to reenter

• The 1-for-6 reentry planning strategy

• Why “pray and spray” job applications don’t work

• How to compartmentalise job search energy

• Tools and mindset tips for navigating rejection

• The power of networking during reentry

• Practical advice for job seekers in today’s AI-driven world

  
  

  📌 Resources Mentioned:

• Katrina’s community + course: GoBreakSpace.com

• Book: Taking a Career Break for Dummies

• • Platforms: LinkedIn, Indeed, AI mock interview tools, Google job search

  
  

  Timestamps

• 00:50 – Episode Introduction

• 02:30 – The Trap of Starting Too Early

• 04:50 – The Toxic Spiral of Early Searching

• 06:45 – Recommended Job Search Timeline

• 08:30 – Making Career Pivoting Part of Your Break Theme

• 10:15 – Reentry Tips: Start with Clear Metrics

• 12:00 – Managing Rejection and Silence

• 14:15 – Why “Pray and Spray” Job Applications Don’t Work

• 16:00 – The Power of Networking Over Cold Applications

• 18:00 – Updated Job Search Tools & AI Advice

• 20:00 – Wrap Up

  
  

  Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

  🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

  📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

  If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

  
  

  BreakSpace - www.gobreakspace.com

  Schedule a call with Katrina - https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php

  Order Katrina's book - https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book

  Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 27 – Overcoming the Fear of Taking a Career Break

In this insightful and practical episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we explore one of the most common roadblocks to pursuing a meaningful break: fear.

Whether it's fear of damaging your career, financial insecurity, public perception, or simply not knowing how to structure your time away from work, these concerns are valid—but they don’t have to be roadblocks. Katrina breaks down the psychological roots of these fears and shares a three-step framework to help you shift from paralyzed to empowered.

Key discussion points include:

• The four major fears career breakers face—and how to identify your own

• Why fear is a natural part of the process and how to use it as a guide, not a barrier

• Katrina’s “Backseat Driver” strategy for reframing fear’s role in your decisions

• How to find clarity by “searching for the truth” and understanding your real financial numbers

• Using real-life proof—stories, communities, and data—to normalize your decision and build confidence

• A powerful real-world story of transformation from someone who overcame deep fear to finally take her dream trip to Peru

Whether you’re a high-achiever planning your first sabbatical or someone already on the edge of burnout, this episode will help you rethink fear, reframe your mindset, and take action with purpose.

Resources Mentioned:

• Taking a Career Break for Dummies by Katrina McGhee

• GoBreakSpace.com – A community and course platform for career breakers

• The Break Blueprint course

• Real examples from Katrina’s coaching clients

Takeaways:

• Fear will always be present, but it doesn't have to lead.

• Clarity comes from action, not overthinking.

• Community, data, and small wins build momentum.

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - ⁠⁠⁠⁠takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 26: Key Components of Rest: How to Heal, Recharge, and Not Just Stay Busy

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGee, we dive deep into a topic that’s too often overlooked when planning time away from work: true rest.

Rest isn’t just about sleep or doing “nothing.” It’s about intentional choices that allow your body, mind, and nervous system to recover from burnout and recalibrate toward a more fulfilling life. Drawing on a powerful recent coaching session, Katrina unpacks how one client’s packed sabbatical plan lacked the very thing it needed most: genuine rest.

Katrina shares the five personalized components of rest her client identified — including good sleep hygiene, unstructured time, and nature walks — and expands with 15 research-backed strategies you can incorporate into your own break. Whether you’re deep into your sabbatical, planning for one, or simply needing better boundaries in everyday life, this episode offers real, practical support.

You’ll learn:

• Why fun and fulfilment aren’t always the same as rest

• How to recognise over-scheduling disguised as “productive” time off

• Simple ways to build rest into your break intentionally

• How to create personal “guardrails” to protect time for restoration

• The power of boundaries — especially the ones we set with ourselves

Plus, Katrina shares tools like journaling for emotional release, forest bathing, daily walks of awe, and the importance of silence and solitude in our hyper-connected world.

If you’ve ever said, “I’ll rest once everything’s done,” this episode is for you.

👉 To learn more about Katrina’s proven career break coaching and access her step-by-step blueprint, visit GoBreakSpace.com.

🎧 Listen now and redefine what rest means to you.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Career Breaks

03:09 The Importance of Rest

06:09 Key Components of Rest

09:12 Setting Boundaries for Rest

11:49 15 Ideas for Rest and Restoration

18:00 Practical Takeaways and Conclusion

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - ⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠

Email - ⁠⁠⁠takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 25 - Pre-Trip Planning for Career Breaks: How to Prepare for Life-Changing Travel

Ready to take the leap into the unknown with a career break but not sure how to get started with travel planning? In this special role-reversal episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGee, Katrina takes over as host and interviews podcast co-creator and travel expert James Hammond, host of Winging It Travel Podcast. Together, they dive deep into everything you need to know before your big departure, offering practical guidance, seasoned travel wisdom, and inspiring personal stories.

This is Part 1 of a special three-part travel series that unpacks the before, during, and after phases of travel during your career break. This episode focuses on pre-planning and preparation, helping you figure out what to do in the weeks and months leading up to your trip.

Whether you're a career professional planning a bold sabbatical or a burned-out high achiever ready for a long-overdue reset, this episode is your go-to travel prep playbook.

🎒 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to choose your destinations based on your personal goals and values (not Instagram envy)

• Why pushing outside your comfort zone creates the most powerful travel memories

• The difference between travel budgets vs. total career break budgets—and how to structure both

• Tools like BudgetYourTrip.com to estimate daily spending by country

• Why slow travel and location flexibility are your secret weapon for long-term travel success

• How to prepare logistically with travel insurance, VPNs, eSIMs, and accommodation booking hacks

• Insider tips on managing phone plans abroad (hello, Google Fi and GigSky!)

• The must-have packing list items people often forget but absolutely need

• How to mentally transition into travel mode before you even leave home

• Why it’s crucial not to overplan—and how to leave space for spontaneity, rest, and personal evolution

💥 Plus:

• Learn how James saved money and stayed flexible while traveling through Central America, Asia, and North America.

• Katrina shares a deeply honest take on why your break doesn’t have to be epic to be valid—and how your version of freedom might look very different from others.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, budget breakdowns, mindset shifts, and real-world tips for anyone wondering, “What should I actually be doing before I go?”

🌍 Planning a career break that includes travel? This is your essential first step.

🎧 Tune in now and get ready to turn your dreams of travel into a concrete departure plan—with clarity, confidence, and a bit of cheeky fun.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Travel Planning

01:09 Defining Your Travel Goals

04:04 Budgeting for Your Career Break

07:55 Accommodation and Travel Style

12:03 Essential Travel Preparations

18:02 Planning Flexibility and Itinerary

21:02 Final Tips and Things Not to Do

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

Book a coaching session - ⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠

Join the waitlist for the BreakSpace community - www.gobreakspace.com⁠

Purchase Taking a Career Break for Dummies - ⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠

Email - ⁠⁠takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

🎙️Episode 41 -  It’s Never Too Late to Take a Career Break: An Inspiring Story with Katrina McGhee

In this week’s episode, James Hammond sits down with career break coach and author Katrina McGhee to explore one of the most empowering truths about work and life — it’s never too late to change direction. Fresh off celebrating her 46th birthday, Katrina shares how a chance encounter with an inspiring woman in her late fifties reminded her — and all of us — that age should never be a barrier to reinvention.

From leaving behind a stable career in finance at 49 to becoming a thriving holistic esthetician and business owner, this real-life story is proof that courage, clarity, and self-belief can transform your path at any stage of life. Together, James and Katrina dive deep into what it really means to take a career break, how to navigate fear and uncertainty, and why redefining success can open the door to true fulfillment.

This episode is packed with insight for anyone who’s ever felt “too old” or “too far along” to pivot, take a midlife career break, or chase a long-buried dream. Katrina also shares her wisdom on the emotional side of change — from dealing with external expectations to rediscovering your joy, energy, and purpose outside of work.

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to step away from the grind, find your spark again, and build a life that feels more aligned, this episode will give you the motivation (and permission) to do it.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation that challenges the myth of “too late” — and reminds you that your next chapter could be your brightest yet.

Get Involved

💬 Got your own career break questions? DM us or email (links in show notes) and Katrina may answer them in a future episode.

🎧 Follow Taking A Career Break With Katrina McGhee for more weekly tips, stories, and guidance.

🌍 Share this episode with someone who’s been talking about needing a break — it might give them the courage to finally do it.

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction – Why it’s never too late to take a career break
02:15 Katrina’s birthday reflections and what sparked this episode
05:00 Real stories of reinvention: From finance to facialist
10:40 Courage to pivot: How to walk away from security
14:00 Finding purpose and joy beyond your career
18:30 Why waiting until retirement might cost you more than you think
22:45 Redefining success, happiness, and validation
25:00 Final thoughts – what it really means to live a brighter life

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 40 - Escaping the 9-to-5: Proving Worth vs. Finding Devotion

In this episode of the podcast Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, Katrina reflects on one of the biggest questions people face when considering a break from their careers: Are you working to prove your worth, or are you devoting yourself to what truly matters?

Katrina shares how this powerful question surfaced during her own moments of reflection as a digital nomad and life coach. She unpacks the difference between chasing external validation—through promotions, salaries, and titles—and choosing to live with intentional devotion to freedom, fulfilment, and joy.

This conversation goes beyond the surface of taking time off. It’s about rethinking the cultural scripts that tell us success is only found in constant striving. Katrina explores how devotion can look different for everyone, from parenting to travelling the world to creating sustainable businesses. She emphasises that the key is making a conscious choice about where to devote your time, energy, and focus—rather than unconsciously trying to prove you’re “enough.”

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the 9-to-5 grind, wondering if all your effort is leading to true happiness, this episode will give you permission to pause, reflect, and reconsider your path. Katrina offers both practical wisdom and personal stories to help you see that a career break isn’t about weakness—it’s about courage, self-awareness, and living intentionally.

Get Involved

💬 Got your own career break questions? DM us or email (links in show notes) and Katrina may answer them in a future episode.

🎧 Follow Taking A Career Break With Katrina McGhee for more weekly tips, stories, and guidance.

🌍 Share this episode with someone who’s been talking about needing a break — it might give them the courage to finally do it.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Worth vs. Devotion

02:18 The Reflection on Breaks and Commitment

04:51 Proving Worth vs. Demonstrating Devotion

08:44 Personal Journeys and Life Choices

11:02 The Importance of Time and Intentionality

13:39 Reframing Goals and Devotion

17:49 Seasons of Life and Balance

19:47 Join BreakSpace

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 31 - Mixing It Up: Smart Ways to Keep Travel Fresh on Your Career Break

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we dive into the challenge many travellers face during extended trips: boredom and burnout. Katrina and James share honest stories about moments of travel fatigue—from cathedral overload in Europe to quiet days in Thailand—and offer smart strategies to keep your career break exciting and meaningful.

We explore the importance of switching up experiences, planning for spontaneity, staying connected with locals, and even how hobbies (or the lack of them!) can impact your down days. Plus, hear a hilarious couchsurfing story from Katrina’s road trip and learn why variety really is the spice of travel life.

Katrina reflects on her time in Thailand, a country she loved, but where she experienced several days that felt surprisingly mundane. She describes wandering aimlessly, unsure what to do with her time, occasionally sitting in hostel lobbies just reading or people-watching. These were quiet, uneventful days—far from the highlight reels we often see online—but they were real. And for Katrina, they revealed something important: boredom is not a sign that something’s gone wrong. It’s part of the rhythm of life, even on the road.

James adds his own experience from an interrailing trip through Europe, where city after city began to blur together. By the time he reached the final stops, the once-exciting buzz of cathedrals and squares started to lose its magic. The repetition was wearing him down, and that prompted a pivot—shifting the itinerary to include nature, mountains, and more immersive travel styles. That shift was key in keeping the journey fresh, inspiring, and emotionally engaging.

Throughout the episode, the conversation keeps returning to a core idea: variety in your experiences helps you stay present and appreciative. Katrina shares how seeing dozens of cathedrals in Europe eventually numbed her to their beauty. Though she marvelled at places like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, by the time she had seen countless others, they began to feel indistinguishable. That burnout still lingers—she now avoids visiting churches when she travels. The lesson is clear: switching up your pace, environment, and activities not only prevents burnout but also helps preserve a sense of awe and wonder.

The conversation then shifts into something even more relatable in the digital age: how phone use affects travel. James calls it out directly—the phone is a nightmare.

🕒 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome + What to Expect This Episode
01:29 – Seasonal Joy: Summer Favourites + Travel Vibes
03:37 – Can Travel Get Boring? Personal Stories from Europe & Thailand
06:35 – The Church Burnout: When Everything Starts Looking the Same
07:50 – How to Mix It Up: Rotating Travel Styles for a Better Experience
08:48 – Why Variation Helps Appreciation While Traveling
09:15 – Hobbies on the Road: Struggles & Creative Solutions
10:09 – Beware the Phone Trap: Being Present vs. Scrolling
10:55 – Meeting People to Keep Travel Social & Fun
11:11 – Katrina’s Couchsurfing Story in New Orleans: Biking, Dancing & Awkward Coins
13:39 – Couchsurfing in Iran: A Tale of Connection & Culture
16:08 – Wrap-Up + How to Connect with Us
16:45 – Bonus Plug: What Is BreakSpace?

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 39 - Katrina Reflects on BreakSpace: What 100+ Members Taught Us About Career Break Success

In this episode of Taking A Career Break With Katrina McGhee, Katrina reflects on the first year of running BreakSpace, the community she co-founded with her partner Lyndall to support people in taking intentional and transformative career breaks. Over the past twelve months, more than 100 members have joined BreakSpace, creating a space for coaching, connection, and growth. Katrina shares what she has learned from leading this community and offers honest reflections on what truly makes a break successful.

Throughout the conversation, Katrina explains that career breaks are not just about saving money, planning logistics, or booking flights. The deeper work often comes from learning to rest, setting boundaries, and giving yourself permission to slow down. She highlights the surprising impact of members witnessing each other’s experiences—showing that listening, reflecting, and sharing journeys within a supportive group can be just as transformative as one-to-one coaching.

Katrina also dives into the importance of structure, revealing how her Break Blueprint has helped members approach their time off with clarity and purpose. She reflects on the courage it took to release this framework into the world and how it has since become a cornerstone of the BreakSpace experience. Her story illustrates why being brave enough to share your work and ideas can change lives, not just your own but those of the people you serve.

Another key insight is that the greatest struggles members face are not external but internal. Feelings of guilt about resting, difficulty setting boundaries, and the fear of not doing enough often emerge. Katrina normalizes these emotions and shares how working through them can make the difference between a career break that feels wasted and one that becomes a profound turning point.

Most striking of all, Katrina has observed that nearly everyone who takes a break ends up wanting to redesign their life. Even those who enjoy their jobs often see their time away as an opportunity to reimagine how they want to live and work going forward. This realization inspired the creation of BreakSpace’s Design Your Life course, helping members build lives that prioritize well-being, joy, and balance.

Finally, Katrina emphasizes the undeniable power of community. For many, simply joining a call with others who “get it” provides immense relief and validation. Taking an unconventional step like a career break can feel isolating, but BreakSpace has proven that being surrounded by a supportive group makes the journey easier, more joyful, and far more impactful.

To learn more about joining the BreakSpace community, visit www.gobreakspace.com.

Get Involved

💬 Got your own career break questions? DM us or email (links in show notes) and Katrina may answer them in a future episode.

Timestamps

00:00 Celebrating One Year of BreakSpace

05:46 The Power of Community in Coaching

09:41 Overcoming Internal Struggles During Breaks

14:21 Redesigning Life: A Common Desire

16:03 The Importance of Community in Break Journeys

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 38 - Katrina Answers Your Questions on Career Breaks: Money, Mindset & Stigma

Welcome back to Taking A Career Break With Katrina McGhee! In this episode, Katrina answers your questions about career breaks, from how much money you really need to budget to how to ask your employer for a sabbatical, and even how to overcome the stigma that still surrounds taking time off work.

Katrina is a certified life coach, author, and career break expert who has guided countless professionals through planning and enjoying successful breaks. Together, we explore the financial, emotional, and personal side of pausing your career, while also discussing why the career break movement is rapidly growing around the world.

Throughout this conversation, Katrina explains how to approach your employer with confidence, how to create a realistic budget for three, six or twelve months away, and how to work through the fear and self-doubt that often stop people from following through with their plans. She also shares her perspective on the worst advice about career breaks, what you should actually do during your time off, and why taking a break now might be one of the best decisions you ever make.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer picture of what it really takes to plan a successful break, why it matters for your wellbeing and career, and how to use this time to reconnect with yourself, heal from burnout, and return with clarity and renewed energy.

Why Listen?

By tuning in, you’ll:
✅ Learn how to budget and plan for your break with confidence.
✅ Discover ways to communicate with your employer.
✅ Gain tools to overcome stigma and fear.
✅ Feel inspired by real-life examples of career break transformations.

Get Involved

💬 Got your own career break questions? DM us or email (links in show notes) and Katrina may answer them in a future episode.
🎧 Follow Taking A Career Break With Katrina McGhee for more weekly tips, stories, and guidance.
🌍 Share this episode with someone who’s been talking about needing a break — it might give them the courage to finally do it.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Rapid Fire Questions

02:27 How to Ask for a Sabbatical

06:27 Financial Planning for a Career Break

10:03 The Growing Career Break Movement

13:09 Overcoming Stigma Around Career Breaks

14:59 Identifying Blockers to Taking a Career Break

16:47 Misconceptions About Career Breaks

19:52 What to Do on Your Career Break

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 37 - Career Break Mindset: Overcoming Guilt, Finding Joy & Redefining Success

Taking a career break isn’t just about money, logistics, or checking off boxes—it’s about mindset. In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, James Hammond sits down with career break coach Katrina McGhee to dive into the mental and emotional side of stepping away from work.

Together, we unpack the hidden challenges many professionals face when they finally hit pause: identity struggles, guilt over rest, and the discomfort of simply “being” instead of constantly “doing.” Katrina shares her expertise on how to shift your perspective so that your break becomes a time of joy, growth, and true self-care, rather than stress or second-guessing.

From tackling the fear of stillness to exploring how health, travel, and business can coexist during a sabbatical, this episode is full of practical wisdom and inspiring insights. Whether you’re planning your first career break or rethinking what rest means in your life, this conversation will help you create space for wellness, joy, and purpose.

If you’ve ever felt guilty about slowing down—or worried that you won’t “use your time off productively”—this episode is for you. Katrina explains how to build your joy muscle, let go of outdated work-driven validation, and design a break that actually restores you.

Timestamps

00:00 Embracing the Break: The Importance of Enjoyment

03:22 Mindset Shift: From Numbers to Enjoyment

06:39 Internal Challenges: Identity and Self-Worth

09:56 Overcoming Internal Barriers: Permission to Be

13:11 Reconditioning for Joy: Building a Joy Muscle

15:58 Navigating Stillness: The Challenge of Being

18:46 Real-Time Journey: Preparing for a Career Break

19:10 Taking A Career Break Outro

👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why mindset is just as important as money when planning a break

• How to separate your self-worth from your job title

• Why rest doesn’t need to be “earned” through struggle

• The hidden challenges most career-breakers face (and how to overcome them)

• How to give yourself permission to enjoy rest, travel, or simply stillness

✨ If you’re curious about how to truly make the most of your career break—and not just survive it—this episode will give you the tools and confidence to redefine what success looks like.

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 36 - The Cost of Waiting: A Powerful Story on Dreams Deferred and Why You Shouldn't Wait For Retirement

In this powerful and profoundly moving episode, James Hammond sits down with career break coach and author Katrina McGhee to explore the true cost of waiting to chase your dreams. Katrina shares a personal and emotional story about one of her earliest clients — a man who had big plans for travel and adventure, but kept postponing his career break for what he considered the “perfect time.” Sadly, he never got the chance to realise those dreams.

This story is a wake-up call for anyone deferring their passions, whether it’s travel, a career shift, or simply taking time for themselves. James and Katrina reflect on why waiting for perfect conditions can be dangerous, the hidden risks of tying joy to retirement timelines, and the importance of creating space for sabbaticals or mini-escapes. They also discuss how to balance financial security with living life fully and offer practical ways to stop delaying your dreams.

More than just a conversation about career breaks, this episode is about living intentionally, embracing opportunities now, and ensuring you don’t look back with regret. If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need a little nudge to stop waiting and start living.

Got questions or stories to share? Reach out to us via email, Instagram, or LinkedIn (links are available in the show notes).

Just a final note to say that this episode may cause you to be upset, and it certainly was a difficult one to record. However, we passionately believe that the key message here is to take action on your career break or pursue your dreams. Don't take getting to retirement for granted, as you may not reach it. Take action and work towards that goal.

Katrina and James

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome + introduction to Katrina McGhee
01:00 – Why this story matters and setting the scene
02:30 – Katrina shares her crisis of confidence while writing her book
04:00 – The story of an early client who dreamed of a career break
06:00 – Discovering what happened to him and the impact on Katrina
08:00 – A life deferred: waiting for retirement and missed opportunities
10:00 – Reflections on work, money, and the “escape plan” mindset
12:30 – The heartbreaking lesson on health, life, and timing
14:00 – Why “perfect conditions” rarely arrive
15:30 – Living with urgency: how to stop waiting and start now
17:00 – Final reflections and how listeners can apply this story to their own lives

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 35 - Sabbatical vs. Career Break: What Kind of Break Do You Need and For How Long?

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, James Hammond sits down with career break coach Katrina McGhee to explore one of the biggest questions professionals face: what type of break should I take—and how long should it last?From stacking paid time off for a mini reset to negotiating a leave of absence or planning a full career break, Katrina shares the pros, cons, and practicalities of each option.

We unpack the real difference between a sabbatical and a career break, why “mini retirements” might not be the best term, and how some people use breaks as a stepping stone into semi-retirement or early retirement. Katrina explains why clarity on your purpose is key, how to decide on the right length of time off (from a few weeks to over a year), and why the average break her clients take is around 11 months.

James and Katrina also dive into financial planning, workplace policies, and even health care considerations when taking extended time away from work. They share real-life stories of employees negotiating paid leaves, examples of short versus long breaks, and the steps you can take to design a break that actually works for your life and career goals.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a sabbatical, career break, or just an extended vacation—and how to figure out the timing—this episode is packed with insights to help you create space for rest, reflection, and freedom.

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro: What kind of break should you take and how long should it last?
01:00 – Katrina joins the conversation and shares her thoughts on “hump day” culture
02:20 – Types of breaks overview: PTO blocks, leaves of absence, sabbaticals, and career breaks
03:30 – Stacking PTO for a mini reset vs. a true break
05:30 – Leaves of absence explained: burnout, caregiving, relocation, or higher education
07:45 – What a sabbatical really is (outside academia)
08:20 – Defining career breaks, gap years, and why “mini retirement” doesn’t sit right
09:40 – Career breaks as a transition into semi-retirement or early retirement
12:20 – Rethinking retirement: freedom, semi-retirement, and doing work you love
14:30 – Redefining “work” and finding purpose beyond a paycheck
17:20 – Why waiting until your 70s for fun isn’t realistic—spreading joy across decades
19:00 – Step 1: Clarifying your goal and why you need a break
20:30 – Step 2: Deciding how much time you actually need
22:40 – Step 3: Examining options—handbooks, finances, and healthcare
24:40 – Real stories of employers offering unexpected leave and flexibility
25:40 – Data points: average 11-month breaks, shortest 5 weeks, longest 2 years
26:45 – James shares his own sabbatical experience and company offer
27:30 – Risks and realities of negotiating breaks with your employer
28:50 – Wrapping up: practical advice, final reflections, and the “awkward endings” joke

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 34 - Burn the Bridge: The Mindset Shift You Need to Finally Take Your Career Break

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we dive into one of the most powerful mindset shifts you can make when you’re dreaming about – but not actually taking – your career break. It’s called “burning the bridge,” and it’s about removing the escape hatch that lets you walk away when things feel hard, uncertain, or uncomfortable. Katrina shares the personal story of how this philosophy helped her push through imposter syndrome and write her book Taking a Career Break for Dummies, one of the most challenging projects of her professional life.

You’ll hear how her initial doubts nearly led her to quit, the turning point conversation that changed everything, and the mental and practical steps she took to commit fully. Along the way, we explore why so many aspiring sabbatical-takers delay their plans for months or even years, how fear of failure and the discomfort of “being seen trying” holds people back, and why a bold, no-turning-back decision can be the key to finally making your break happen.

James and Katrina also talk about the difference between easy answers that keep you safe and the harder choices that move you toward your goals. They share examples from their own lives where burning the bridge – whether by giving notice at work, booking a non-refundable ticket, or investing in personal growth – created the accountability needed to follow through. This episode will inspire you to reflect on the resources you already have, the future you want to create, and the one decisive step you can take right now to commit fully to your dream. If you’ve been stuck on the fence, this conversation is your call to set the match, light the fire, and cross into the life you’ve been imagining.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to the episode and introduction to “burn the bridge”
01:00 – Katrina sets the stage: a personal meets life-advice episode
01:12 – The book deal that sparked the lesson
02:23 – Imposter syndrome and overwhelm in writing the first chapter
04:50 – Considering quitting before the book even began
06:20 – The pivotal advice: you have to burn the bridge
08:05 – The sample chapter feedback that changed everything
09:30 – Committing 100% and removing the option to quit
10:46 – James on failure, trying hard things, and public perception
11:23 – The discomfort of being seen trying
12:16 – Why passion, willpower, and consistency matter
13:15 – How delaying your break is often fear in disguise
14:50 – Practical ways to burn the bridge for your career break
16:48 – James on “the easy answer is no” vs. the hard choice to commit
18:16 – Katrina on mental shifts, accountability, and personal transformation
20:10 – The closing quote: burn the bridge and learn to fly
20:25 – Final reflections and wrap-up
20:54 – Invitation to join BreakSpace

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 33 - From $0 to $120K: What People Actually Spend on a Career Break

How much does a career break really cost? In this eye-opening episode, Katrina McGhee and James Hammond unpack the actual numbers behind taking time off work—ranging from breaks that cost absolutely nothing to those that hit the $120,000 mark. Whether you're just beginning to think about a sabbatical or already mapping out your finances, this conversation offers clear, practical insights into what you might realistically spend.

Drawing from Katrina’s experience coaching over 100 clients, you’ll hear how break budgets vary dramatically depending on lifestyle choices, travel preferences, and financial responsibilities. She explains how some people manage to take meaningful breaks without adding to their expenses at all, while others choose high-end travel and continue supporting large monthly commitments. The average monthly spend lands around $3,700, but that number is influenced by many factors—from passive income and living arrangements to debt and family needs.

You’ll also hear Katrina’s take on the often-taboo subject of taking a break while still carrying debt, and how smart planning can make it entirely possible. James shares personal experiences too, and together they offer a wealth of tips for budgeting better, cutting down on unnecessary expenses, and aligning your spending with your purpose for the break.

This episode is full of real talk—no fluff or generic advice. It’s designed to help you feel empowered to make informed financial decisions that support your break, rather than delay or cancel it. Katrina outlines how lifestyle audits, mindset shifts, and even simple day-to-day spending changes can drastically increase your savings and make a break feel within reach.

Whether you’re planning to travel, stay local, or reinvent your lifestyle during your break, you’ll come away from this episode with a clearer sense of what’s financially possible. If you're curious about how people actually fund their breaks—and how to budget for your own—this is a must-listen.

Katrina also shares resources from her book Taking a Career Break for Dummies and invites listeners into her supportive coaching space at GoBreakSpace.com.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome and episode overview
01:00 – Why money is one of the biggest concerns around taking a break
02:15 – The real cost of Katrina’s 20-month break
03:00 – Career breaks that cost $0 — how it’s possible
04:00 – The most expensive breaks Katrina’s clients have taken
06:15 – How travel style dramatically affects your budget
07:30 – Lifestyle audits that save thousands
08:40 – The hidden impact of lifestyle creep on your finances
10:15 – How one client cut expenses by 40% in under two months
12:30 – Making trade-offs: saving for a break vs. spending now
14:00 – Spending intentionally when planning your break
16:00 – Should you take a break if you have debt?
18:30 – Katrina’s story: taking a break with $42K in student loan debt
20:30 – The average monthly cost of a career break revealed
21:00 – Factors that shape your break budget: income, responsibilities, and travel
24:00 – Most common spending range Katrina sees with clients
25:20 – Final thoughts and how to dive deeper into budgeting with Katrina’s book

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 32 - Career Break Travel Hacks: Bucket Lists, Upskilling Abroad & Phone Boundaries

Thinking of taking a career break or sabbatical? This episode is packed with practical tips and mindset shifts to help you make the most of your time away from the 9–5 grind. Katrina McGhee, sabbatical coach and author of Taking a Career Break for Dummies, joins James Hammond to talk about how to turn your break into a purposeful journey—without burning out or getting lost in endless scrolling. Whether you're planning three months in Europe or slow traveling across continents, this conversation will help you design an experience that aligns with your goals, values, and curiosity.

Katrina and James get real about what it takes to balance adventure and rest while traveling long-term. They share personal stories about how fast and slow travel each play a role, how to plan around bucket list goals while leaving space for spontaneity, and why being intentional about your phone usage can radically improve your overall experience. Katrina explains how the themes of your break—whether you're seeking growth, healing, joy, or exploration—should guide how you plan your trip. James shares examples from his own career break and global adventures, emphasizing the value of mixing big, exciting activities with restorative downtime.

They also explore the idea of upskilling while abroad, like taking a short course or learning a new language, and how that can add a layer of meaning or future benefit to your break. Plus, they discuss the real-life challenges of being present when you're tempted to document everything for social media or keep up with work emails. Toward the end, they each share their evolving bucket list goals—from seeing polar bears in Canada and dancing in Ibiza, to chasing paradise in French Polynesia and exploring new parts of Greece. It’s an honest, practical, and inspiring look at how to design a travel experience that truly serves you, rather than just filling your calendar.

Whether you’re on the road or just starting to plan, this episode will give you permission to slow down, dream big, and take control of your time. And if you want community and support while you do it, Katrina shares how you can join BreakSpace, her one-of-a-kind global network for career breakers and sabbatical takers.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview
01:00 – Building Variety into Your Career Break
03:30 – Aligning Travel Plans with Break Themes
05:20 – The Power of Rest Stops While Traveling
07:00 – Spontaneity and Flexible Planning
09:00 – One-Way Tickets and Serendipitous Moments
11:00 – Upskilling and Learning While Abroad
13:30 – Digital Discipline and Phone Boundaries
15:30 – Staying Present as a Traveler and Creator
16:10 – Bucket List Reflections: What’s Left to Do?
19:00 – James’ Travel Bucket List Goals
20:10 – Final Thoughts & BreakSpace Community Invitation

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch today to start your journey!

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Episode 46 - There Were Signs: How We Learned to Break the Status Quo and Lessons in Courage, Authenticity, and Going Your Own Way

In this reflective and deeply personal episode, Katrina and James explore the moments in their lives when the signs were there all along—the nudges, red flags, and inner whispers that pointed them away from the status quo and toward a more aligned, authentic life. These are the stories that shaped who they became, long before a career break was even on the horizon.

Katrina opens up about her early career choices and the unmistakable moments when she knew she didn’t quite fit into the mold around her. From turning down a “safe” corporate job despite external pressure, to boldly choosing time over money at just twenty-four, she shares the decisions that signaled she was a square peg refusing to squeeze into a round hole. She also recounts a pivotal, vulnerable moment in business school—standing in front of a room of high-achieving MBA students and choosing authenticity over conformity—that ultimately reinforced her belief in staying true to herself.

James mirrors these stories with his own path, including the unconventional decisions that pulled him away from expectation and toward possibility. He reflects on turning away from the typical academic route, choosing music over traditional subjects, discovering the world of long-term travel, and how those early experiences shaped the life he eventually built. His story of working relentlessly to fund a two-year adventure—and the shift years later toward building a sustainable, purpose-driven career—reveals just how powerful it can be to raise the bar for your own life.

Together, they explore how these moments add up: the subtle knowing, the brave choices, the course corrections, and the willingness to disappoint others in order not to disappoint yourself. This conversation is for anyone standing at a crossroads, sensing that something in their life no longer fits, and wondering whether they dare to choose something different.

If you’re feeling the pull toward a career break, a lifestyle shift, or a version of life that aligns more deeply with who you are, this episode will remind you that honouring those signs can open the door to possibilities you haven't even imagined yet. You’re not meant to fit into every space—sometimes the life you want starts with simply admitting the shape of who you are.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Status Quo Breakers

01:53 Courage to Follow Your Own Path

03:48 Personal Stories of Career Decisions

09:50 Defining Success on Your Own Terms

16:33 The Importance of Vulnerability

22:34 Navigating Life's Seasons

25:22 Final Thoughts on Time and Alignment

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 45 - How to Build Your Break Blueprint: 5 Elements of a Successful Career Break

In this episode of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, we’re laying the foundation for your most successful break yet. Katrina walks through her signature framework — the Break Blueprint — revealing the five essential elements that help you plan, live, and return from your career break with purpose and clarity.

From defining your “why” and setting themes that guide your time off, to creating a wish list that actually fuels your growth, Katrina and James unpack what it really takes to design a fulfilling and financially sound break. You’ll also learn how to plan for reentry, avoid burnout at the finish line, and carry the lessons of your time off into your next chapter.

Whether you’re just considering a break, actively planning one, or getting ready to return to work, this episode will give you a roadmap to do it with confidence and intention. Katrina also shares how you can access extra support — from her Break Blueprint Course inside Break Space, to her book Taking a Career Break for Dummies and private coaching for one-on-one guidance.

Tune in, take notes, and start building your blueprint today. Subscribe, leave us a five-star review, and share this episode with someone who’s dreaming of taking a career break — it might be the nudge they need to make it happen.

Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome and episode intro
01:00 – Reflecting on 45 episodes and planning for 2026
02:20 – Listener feedback, upcoming mini-series, and why your input matters
03:25 – Introducing the Break Blueprint: the foundation of a successful career break
04:45 – Element 1: Defining your purpose — your big “why”
05:30 – Element 2: Creating themes to anchor your break
06:20 – Element 3: Building your wish list (and why it’s not a to-do list)
07:45 – Element 4: Planning for reentry — time, money, and mindset
09:50 – Element 5: Key details — start date, budget, and break length
11:50 – How to use the blueprint at different stages of your journey
13:45 – Applying the blueprint if you’re already on a break or nearing reentry
15:30 – Framing your break story for future opportunities
16:30 – Katrina’s resources: the book, Break Space, and coaching options
17:40 – Final thoughts: following the plan with confidence
18:10 – James and Katrina wrap up and share where to learn more

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - https://www.wingingitproductions.com

Episode 44 - I Might Get Bored… or Love It Too Much: Two Unexpected Career Break Fears

Are you secretly worried you’ll be bored on a career break — or even worse, that you’ll love it too much to ever go back?

In this week’s episode of Taking A Career Break with Katrina McGhee, Katrina and James unpack two surprising fears that stop people from taking the break they’ve been dreaming about. These aren’t your typical money or career worries — they’re emotional, subtle, and surprisingly common.

Katrina shares real stories from her coaching clients, her own experience taking a 20-month break, and what happens when you finally give yourself permission to slow down. Together, she and James explore why boredom can actually fuel creativity, how overstimulation makes rest feel uncomfortable, and what it really means if you’re scared to “like your break too much.”

Then, the conversation turns to that second, almost funny but very real fear — what if you love your break so much you never want to go back? Katrina shares her own experience of not wanting her 20-month break to end, while James reflects on his cycles of working, travelling, and finding meaning beyond the 9–5 grind. Together, they explore what this fear really reveals about our relationship to freedom, fulfilment, and work.

You’ll hear honest reflections on what happens when the fear of freedom meets the reality of modern work, plus practical advice for navigating your return — or redefining what work looks like next.

Expect laughter, honesty, and plenty of aha moments — including why “tasting the good life” can raise your standards and inspire lasting change.

⏱ Timestamps
00:00 – Intro
01:20 – Common vs. surprising fears
02:00 – Fear #1: Being bored on a break
04:00 – Client insights on stillness
06:00 – Boredom, creativity, and overstimulation
09:50 – James on boredom and creativity
10:50 – Wrapping up fear #1
11:00 – Fear #2: Loving the break too much
13:30 – What this fear really means
15:00 – James on work, travel, and purpose
16:30 – Katrina on returning to work and debt freedom
17:40 – The “pool” analogy
20:00 – Raising your standards after a break
21:10 – Dating analogy for raising the bar
22:18 – Taking action and final reflections

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 43 - Finding Freedom: The Art of Balancing Structure and Spontaneity on a Career Break

In this episode, James and Katrina dive deep into one of the most common and misunderstood challenges people face when they finally decide to step away from work: how much structure do you actually need when you take time off?

We’ve been conditioned to think freedom means doing whatever we want, whenever we want — but what happens when the complete lack of structure starts to feel overwhelming? Katrina, creator of The Break Blueprint, believes that structure and freedom aren’t enemies at all. In fact, the right kind of structure can become a powerful ally, helping you create space for self-discovery, rest, and exploration without falling into the trap of overplanning.

Throughout the conversation, James and Katrina unpack the tension between control and curiosity — how to balance a desire for routine with the need to let go. Katrina explains how “guardrails” can guide your journey without turning it into an itinerary, and why the version of you three months into a break is wiser, calmer, and more open than the one who started it. They explore the mindset shifts needed to embrace flexibility, listen to your intuition, and build a break that evolves as you do.

The episode also delves into the reality of high achievers — those who are used to constant productivity and goal-setting — and why they often struggle to rest. Katrina shares her advice on how to work with that inner voice that demands results, and how to use a blueprint not to restrict yourself, but to give yourself permission to explore what truly lights you up. From following “glimmers” — those small, joyful sparks that point toward fulfillment — to rediscovering your capacity for play, the conversation reveals how clarity, purpose, and freedom can coexist beautifully.

They also discuss the Sunday Scaries, unused vacation days, and the American work culture that makes people feel guilty for slowing down. Katrina breaks down how our nervous systems adapt to constant doing, and why it takes intentional time and compassion to recalibrate. It’s a conversation that reminds us rest isn’t a reward for productivity.

By the end, the message is clear: freedom doesn’t come from abandoning structure entirely — it comes from creating enough of it to support your spontaneity, while trusting yourself to follow what feels right. Whether you’re taking your first career break, planning time away to recharge, or simply rethinking how you use your weekends, this episode will leave you with practical insight, emotional clarity, and a renewed sense of what’s possible when you finally step off the treadmill.

Timestamps

00:50 – Welcome Back
02:10 – Structure vs. Freedom: The Music Analogy
03:11 – What Structure Really Means on a Break
06:05 – How Much Structure Do You Need?
07:55 – The Power of “Glimmers”
10:10 – Giving Yourself Permission
12:39 – The Fear of Boredom
19:29 – Why Americans Don’t Take Time Off
21:35 – Vacation Anxiety and the Sunday Scaries
24:38 – Freedom Over Structure
25:16 – Wrap-Up

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

🎧 Episode 42 – When Nobody Supports Your Career Break (Do It Anyway!)

What happens when everyone around you — your friends, your colleagues, even your partner — tells you not to take a career break? In this powerful and honest conversation, I sit down with Katrina to explore what it really takes to follow your intuition when no one else understands your decision.

Katrina shares a moving story about a client whose entire support system was against her dream of stepping away from work. Even her spouse begged her not to do it. Faced with burnout and exhaustion, she felt torn between what she knew she needed and what everyone else thought was “safe.” Together, we unpack the emotional side of this crossroads — fear, resistance, guilt, and the deeply personal reasons why people react so strongly when someone they love decides to step away.

We dive into why this pushback often isn’t about you at all, but rather a reflection of other people’s limiting beliefs and anxieties. Katrina explains how clarity — not just confidence — becomes your most powerful tool when the world is telling you no. By crafting a clear purpose statement and defining the themes behind your break, you can start to transform fear into understanding.

This episode also explores Katrina’s three paths to clarity and confidence — whether you’re doing it solo with her book Taking a Career Break for Dummies, joining her BreakSpace community for group support, or diving into one-on-one coaching. Whatever level you’re at, Katrina’s guidance helps you build a plan, a purpose, and the courage to take that first step.

If you’ve ever felt burned out, stuck, or unsupported in your dreams, this episode will remind you that your break isn’t reckless — it’s restorative. You’ll learn how to reclaim your story, protect your energy, and lead with conviction, even when no one else gets it yet.

Whether you’re still in the daydreaming phase, quietly researching, or standing at the edge of giving notice, this conversation will help you find strength, clarity, and permission to move forward.

Timestamps

00:50 – Welcome to Episode 42: When Nobody Wants You To Take a Career Break
01:00 – Katrina explains the inspiration behind this episode and a powerful LinkedIn message that sparked it
02:00 – What happens when everyone in your life says “don’t do it” — including your spouse
03:30 – The truth about resistance: why it’s rarely about you and often about others’ fears
06:00 – How clarity and purpose can transform fear into understanding
07:00 – Building your “purpose statement” and “themes” to define your break with confidence
08:30 – How to communicate your vision so your loved ones can finally see what you see
09:30 – Katrina’s client story: from skeptical spouse to biggest supporter
11:00 – The emotional turning point: how clarity creates permission and peace
12:10 – Katrina’s “Good, Better, Best” framework for taking your break
17:20 – The hardest milestone: actually giving notice to your employer
18:40 – Why emotional support and belief in your vision are essential
20:45 – Levels of accessibility

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 48 - The Future of Career Breaks in 2026: Trends, Data & Why More People Are Taking Sabbaticals

In this episode, James and Katrina explore an important question as 2026 approaches: Are career breaks becoming more accepted and normalised, or is the movement slowing down? The conversation reveals a clear answer — the momentum behind sabbaticals is stronger than ever.

James invites Katrina to break down the real trends she’s seeing through her coaching, BreakSpace community, and the growing volume of research on the topic. Katrina explains why the demand for sabbaticals keeps increasing, how major platforms like LinkedIn and Harvard Business Review have validated the trend, and why people are feeling more empowered to take intentional time off.

They also discuss the most powerful driver behind the rise of career breaks — seeing other real people do it. Whether through personal networks or storytelling, this visibility creates a ripple effect that encourages others to take the leap.

The episode touches on burnout, shifting work culture, and why more professionals are questioning the traditional path. James and Katrina also share details about a new 2026 mini-series featuring powerful, real career break stories from individuals Katrina has supported first-hand.

For anyone considering a sabbatical, dealing with burnout, or simply curious about the future of the movement, this episode offers clarity, inspiration, and practical insight. Katrina also shares resources and ways listeners can begin exploring their own break.

A reflective, energizing, and forward-looking episode as the show heads toward an exciting 2026.

As always, if you’re enjoying this podcast, please leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and subscribe so you never miss a new conversation.

Timestamps

00:00 — Welcome
00:49 — How accepted are career breaks heading into 2026?
02:20 — What LinkedIn’s Career Break feature tells us
04:00 — The role of seeing someone else take a break
06:00 — Why the great resignation accelerated the trend
08:10 — Burnout, bore-out, and why work is becoming unsustainable
09:21 — BreakSpace: the community supporting hundreds of breaks
10:00 — The power of real personal stories (and our 2026 mini-series)
12:40 — Why everything feels impossible until someone else does it
15:00 — How Katrina supports people through coaching and BreakSpace
17:30 — Looking ahead to 2026 and what’s coming on the podcast
19:00 — A preview of James’s trip to Bhutan

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠

Episode 47 - The 5 Essential Ground Rules for a Successful Career Break

In Episode 47 of Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee, Katrina and James sit down in person to explore the five essential ground rules for creating a successful, fulfilling, and regret-free career break.

Together, they walk through what it truly means to define a personal version of success, why planning the re-entry phase before the break even begins can transform the experience, and how understanding the financial side of a break brings clarity and confidence. They also dig into the emotional reality of disconnecting from work in a hyper-connected world and discuss why bringing focus back onto oneself remains the cornerstone of a meaningful break.

Katrina shares insights from coaching more than 200 clients, including real examples of navigating uncertainty, emotional lows, financial fears, and the pressure to stay productive. The conversation highlights how a well-structured break can help listeners step out of burnout and step into a healthier, more intentional life.

This episode is designed for anyone considering a break, planning one, or struggling to make sense of time away from work. With a mix of practical advice and heartfelt honesty, James and Katrina offer a roadmap to make any career break purposeful, aligned, and transformative.

As always, if you’re enjoying this podcast, please leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and subscribe so you never miss a new conversation.

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to Episode 47
00:50 – Why ground rules matter for a career break
02:10 – Rule #1: Create your own definition of success
06:40 – Can your definition of success change mid-break?
07:55 – Why your purpose should remain consistent
10:30 – Rule #2: Plan for your re-entry period
13:00 – What happens when you don’t feel ready to return to work
16:40 – How Katrina landed 5 job offers in 5 weeks
20:00 – Rule #3: Know your numbers
25:00 – Budgeting vs saving — and how it impacts your break
27:30 – Extending your break with smart financial planning
31:10 – Rule #4: Disconnect from the working world
34:20 – Why LinkedIn is the enemy of a peaceful break
37:00 – Managing FOMO, comparison, and work-related anxiety
41:00 – Rule #5: Put the focus back on yourself
45:15 – Setting boundaries with others and with yourself
48:00 – Bringing your break back to your purpose
50:30 – Why the final five ground rules are in the book
51:20 – Wrap-up and takeaway message

Listen now and reclaim control of your career break journey.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into career growth, work-life balance, and mental resilience.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and every podcast app!

📩 Got a story about your own career break journey? DM us or leave a review—we’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us today to begin your journey.

BreakSpace - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.gobreakspace.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Schedule a call with Katrina - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kmcgheecoaching.as.me/schedule.php⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Order Katrina's book - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email - takingacareerbreakwithkatrina@gmail.com

Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/takingacareerbreak/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Produced by Winging It Productions - ⁠⁠https://www.wingingitproductions.com⁠