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Second Act Success: Business Tips & Career Change Advice for Women

Second Act Success: Business Tips & Career Change Advice for Women

Hosted by Shannon Russell | Business Coach for Women and Author of Start Your Second Act

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Episodes

258

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Second Act Success Podcast , a top 2% globally ranked show designed to help ambitious women like you who are ready to change careers, start a business, and create a fulfilled life you deserve. Hosted by Shannon Russell , business coach for women, author, and entrepreneur, this podcast helps you transition from employee to entrepreneur with clarity, confidence, and a strategic action plan. Listen and Learn: - How to quit your job and start a business that lights you up - Strategies for career change after 40 and designing your second act - Business planning, marketing, and personal branding tips for women - How to validate your business idea and find your ideal clients - How to use your career experience in your role as a female entrepreneur - Success stories from women who’ve turned their side hustles into thriving businesses Whether you’re planning an exit strategy, exploring midlife career pivots, or ready to become your own boss, you’ll find actionable steps, real-life inspiration, and expert guidance here on the show, so you can start your second act. Is this podcast for you? - Are you dreaming of quitting your corporate job to start your own business? - Do you want advice on launching a business, marketing your offers, designing your personal brand, and putting your business strategies in place? - Are you ready to overcome fear and turn your skills and experience from the corporate world into your second act business where you are the boss? - Do you crave a flexible lifestyle that allows you to focus on your family and your creative passions while still bringing income into your household? - Are you ready to become your own boss and build a business that is all yours? - Is it time to turn your side hustle into a full-time business? If you answered YES, then you’re in the right place and this podcast will teach you everything you need to know. 🎧 Listen to new episodes every week to help you build your second act. 🔗 Book a free Second Act Strategy Call with host Shannon Russell and download free resources at https://secondactsuccess.co . Subscribe now and embark on a journey towards your second act!

Listen to episodes

60 recent
June 16, 2026Episode 25917 min

You Deserve Freedom: Why Starting a Business Gives Women More Time, Flexibility, and Purpose | #259

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.What if the real reason you want to start a business isn't about money?What if it's about freedom?In this heartfelt solo episode #259 of the Second Act Success Podcast, host and business coach Shannon Russell shares the deeper reason so many women pursue entrepreneurship. Not just for financial independence, but for the freedom to be present for their children, aging parents, and themselves.After leaving her television career, Shannon discovered that building her own businesses gave her something even more valuable than income: flexibility, purpose, and the ability to show up for the people she loves most.Whether you're experiencing burnout, dreaming about a career change, or wondering if starting a business could create a more fulfilling life, this episode is your reminder that you don't have to choose between ambition and family.You deserve both.In this episode, you'll learn: Why freedom is one of the biggest reasons women start businesses  How entrepreneurship can support your family and personal priorities  Why you don't need to quit your job to start a business  Small steps you can take toward your second act  How to overcome the fear of starting over  Why building a business doesn't have to be all-or-nothing  How to create a career that aligns with your values and lifestyle  Why giving yourself permission to dream may be the hardest step of all If you've been thinking, "There has to be more than this," this episode is for you.--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

June 1, 2026Episode 25828 min

Women’s Health Advocacy, Career Reinvention & Finding Your Purpose with Rebecca Bloom | #258

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here. What if the career skills you've spent decades building could become the foundation for a completely different and more meaningful second act?In this inspiring episode #258 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Rebecca Bloom, former workplace and benefits attorney, women's health advocate, author, and storytelling coach, to discuss how personal challenges can lead to a powerful career transition and a life filled with purpose.After Rebecca's mother and sister were both diagnosed with breast cancer, she found herself navigating the complex healthcare system as an advocate for her family. What began as a deeply personal experience eventually evolved into a new career helping women across the country advocate for themselves during health challenges.Today, Rebecca is the author of When Women Get Sick: An Empowering Approach for Getting the Support You Need and has spent more than 27 years supporting women facing breast and ovarian cancer through her work with Bay Area Cancer Connections.In this conversation, Rebecca shares how she transitioned from corporate law to women's health advocacy, why storytelling became such an important part of her work, and how women can uncover the skills, passions, and experiences that lead to a meaningful second act career.In This Episode, We Discuss: How Rebecca transitioned from attorney to women's health advocate  Supporting a loved one through breast cancer and becoming an advocate  The importance of women's health during midlife and beyond  Why storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing and connection  Finding purpose after a successful corporate career  How to identify transferable skills for a second act career  Creating a meaningful legacy through service and impact  Building community and support during life's biggest challenges  Advice for women considering a career transition or reinvention  How to design a second act that aligns with your values and purpose Whether you're considering a career change, exploring second act career ideas, or searching for more meaningful work, this episode will inspire you to rethink what's possible and embrace the next chapter of your life.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

May 25, 2026Episode 25729 min

Mini Retirement in Midlife: How Taking a Career Pause Led to a Powerful New Beginning with Patricia Sasser | #257

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.What happens when life forces you to slow down?In this powerful episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Patricia Sasser, independent school leader and incoming Head of School, to talk about taking a mid-career sabbatical, also known as a “mini retirement,” after experiencing profound personal loss. After years of serving students, families, and school communities while navigating grief and burnout, Patricia made the courageous decision to pause her career and prioritize healing, self-care, and reflection. What followed was a transformative journey of grief, personal growth, career clarity, and ultimately, a bold new leadership opportunity.In this episode, Patricia shares: Why she decided to step away from her demanding career in education  How grief and burnout impacted her physically and emotionally  What a purposeful career pause really looks like  How mini retirements and mid-career sabbaticals can create space for healing and reinvention  The importance of boundaries, joy, therapy, and self-care during life transitions  Why women need permission to pause without guilt  How taking time off led her to a brand-new leadership role and exciting second act If you’ve been feeling burned out, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or questioning your next chapter, this conversation will remind you that sometimes stepping away is exactly what allows you to move forward.Patricia’s story is proof that pressing pause does not mean giving up. Sometimes it’s the beginning of your next great chapter.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

May 18, 2026Episode 25613 min

What Your Kids Learn From Watching You Chase Your Dreams | #256

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.What are your children learning from the way you approach work, stress, ambition, and dreams?In this heartfelt episode #256 of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell shares a deeply personal story about attending her son’s school presentation and realizing just how much our children are watching us as we navigate our careers, businesses, and second acts. From career transitions and entrepreneurship to motherhood and personal fulfillment, this episode explores how the choices we make as adults shape what our children believe is possible for their own lives.If you are a woman considering a career change, thinking about starting a business, or navigating a midlife career transition, this conversation will remind you that your journey is about more than just you. Your children are learning from the way you show up every day.In this episode, Shannon discusses: Why children learn more from what we do than what we say  The impact of burnout, stress, and fulfillment on family life  Leaving a dream career to create a more present life as a mom  How entrepreneurship and second acts model courage for our kids  Why it’s okay to reinvent yourself later in life  The importance of showing children that change is possible  How career transitions can inspire the next generation This episode is an honest conversation about motherhood, ambition, work-life balance, and creating a life aligned with your values.If you’ve ever wondered whether your kids notice your sacrifices, your stress, or your dreams, this episode is for you.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

May 11, 2026Episode 25525 min

Midlife Career Transition: Building a Business and Community from Scratch with Betty Galvan | #255

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.What does a successful career transition really look like?In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Betty Galvan, a former teacher turned female entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and coworking space owner, to talk about her inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship.Betty shares how she went from teaching middle school to launching a blog during the early days of digital marketing, which eventually evolved into a successful small business helping companies grow through social media. Today, she runs a digital marketing agency and owns two coworking spaces in New Jersey.If you're a midlife woman considering a career change, dreaming about starting a business, or looking for real-life second act career ideas, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.In this episode, we cover: How Betty navigated her career transition from teaching to entrepreneurship  Turning a passion project into a profitable small business The early days of blogging and digital marketing  How to evolve your business as industries change  Building a digital marketing agency from the ground up  Taking risks and acquiring a coworking business  The power of community for women in business  How to make time for your next chapter, even when life feels busy Betty’s story is proof that your second act career doesn’t have to be perfectly planned. It evolves as you do.If you’ve been wondering how to start a business, pivot careers, or step into entrepreneurship, this episode will show you what’s possible.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

May 6, 2026Episode 25410 min

Feeling Stuck in Your Business? How to Turn Roadblocks Into Breakthroughs | #254

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.Building a business is exciting, but it’s not always easy.In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into one of the most important topics for entrepreneurs and women starting a business. How to handle roadblocks, setbacks, and challenges without losing momentum.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business, frustrated by a failed launch, or unsure how to move forward after something didn’t go as planned, this episode is for you.Because here’s the truth. Every entrepreneur faces obstacles. The difference is how you respond to them.Shannon shares practical mindset shifts and actionable strategies to help you reframe challenges, build resilience, and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.As discussed in this episode, roadblocks can include financial struggles, marketing failures, team issues, or simply feeling overwhelmed and stuck You’ll learn how to move from reaction to action so you can keep building your business with confidence.In this episode, you’ll learn: How to overcome business roadblocks and stay motivated  Why setbacks are a normal part of entrepreneurship  How to reframe failure as feedback and growth  Simple mindset shifts to help you move forward faster  How to identify lessons in challenges and pivot effectively  Actionable steps to get unstuck and regain momentum Whether you’re in the early stages of starting a business or navigating a career transition into entrepreneurship, this episode will help you stay grounded, focused, and moving forward.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

April 27, 2026Episode 25322 min

How to Become a Published Author While Working Full-Time | #253

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.Have you ever dreamed of becoming a published author but told yourself you don’t have the time?In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Liz Mugavero, traditionally published author of 20 books and counting, to talk about how she built a successful writing career while working a demanding corporate job.Liz shares how she went from a career in journalism and marketing to becoming a full-time communications consultant and bestselling mystery author, all while writing books on the side for years before landing her first publishing deal If you’re navigating a career transition, starting a side business, or dreaming about your own second act career, this episode will show you what’s possible when you stay committed to your passion.In this episode, we cover: How to become a published author while working full-time  Building a writing career as a side hustle  The difference between traditional publishing and self-publishing  How to stay consistent and meet deadlines with a busy schedule  Transitioning from corporate to consulting and entrepreneurship  Why accountability is key when writing a book or starting a business  How to create time for your passion, even with a full life Liz also shares how she now helps aspiring writers through her coaching programs, courses, and membership community, giving them the tools and support to finally write their books.If you’ve been thinking about writing a book, starting a business, or stepping into your second act, this episode will inspire you to take action.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

April 20, 2026Episode 25214 min

Afraid of What People Will Think? How to Overcome Self-Doubt in Business | #252

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.Have you ever stopped yourself from starting a business or changing careers because you were worried about what people would think? You are not alone.In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into one of the biggest blockers for women navigating a career transition, self-doubt and the fear of judgment.Listen in if you’ve ever thought: “What will people say if I leave my job?”  “What if I fail?”  “What will my coworkers, friends, or family think?” Shannon breaks down: Where self-doubt really comes from and why it’s normal  How fear of outside opinions can keep you stuck in a career that no longer fits  Why your brain is wired to keep you “safe” and how to move past it  How to use Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” theory to stop caring what others think  Practical steps to overcome fear and start your second act career  How to build confidence through action when starting a business If you’re in a midlife career transition, thinking about starting a business, or ready to move from employee to entrepreneur, this episode will help you take your next step with confidence.🔗 Get the full show notes at https://secondactsuccess.co/252.--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

April 6, 2026Episode 25129 min

Stay-at-Home Mom to Financial Advisor: How to Start a Business and Reinvent Your Career | #251

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.Are you a stay-at-home mom thinking about going back to work, starting a business, or navigating a career transition?In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Lorie Jones, a financial advisor, entrepreneur, and mom of five, who shares her inspiring journey from stay-at-home parent to successful business owner.Lorie started with no background in finance. She simply needed a paycheck. But what began as a secretarial job quickly turned into a passion, leading her to earn multiple certifications, build her expertise, and eventually launch her own financial advisory business.In this episode, we cover: How to transition from stay-at-home mom to working professional  Turning a job into a long-term career or business  Why it is never too late to start a second act career  How women can take control of their finances and build confidence  The importance of mentorship, learning, and taking action  How to start a business even when you feel unprepared Lorie’s story is proof that you don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. You just need to take the first step.If you’re thinking about a career transition, exploring second act career ideas, or ready to go from employee to entrepreneur, this episode will give you both inspiration and practical insight.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

March 30, 2026Episode 25013 min

Mini Retirement: Why Women Are Taking Career Breaks to Reset | #250

👉 Start Your Second Act Strategy Call with Shannon here.What if retirement didn’t have to wait until you were 65?In this episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell dives into the growing trend of mini retirements and why more women are choosing to take intentional career breaks to reset, recharge, and rethink their next chapter.A recent study shows that more professionals are planning career breaks of 3 to 12 months, especially during midlife, to combat burnout, explore new business ideas, and realign their lives with what truly matters. If you’ve ever felt exhausted, stuck in your 9–5, or unsure what your next move should be, this episode will open your eyes to a powerful alternative.In this episode, you’ll learn: What a mini retirement really is and why it’s becoming more popular  How to take a career break without falling behind financially The connection between burnout, career transition, and second act careers  How a mini retirement can help you start a business or pivot your career Practical steps to plan your own sabbatical or reset period Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business, navigating a midlife career transition, or simply craving space to breathe, this episode will help you explore what’s possible.Your second act doesn’t have to wait. Sometimes, it starts with a pause.🔗 Get the full show notes here!--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn More resources & discounts:Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99/serving)Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off 1st year)Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off 1st order)Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off)Podmatch Guesting(*Some affiliate links)

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