

Business Tips & Career Change Advice for Women: Second Act Success
Shannon Russell | Business Coach for Women, Consultant, and Author of Start Your Second Act
Welcome to the Second Act Success Podcast, a top 2% globally ranked show designed for ambitious women ready to change careers, start a business, and create a life they love. Hosted by Shannon Russell, business coach, author, and entrepreneur, this podcast helps you transition from employee to entrepreneur with clarity and confidence.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 businessesWhether 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.Is this podcast for you?- Are you dreaming of quitting your corporate job to start your own business?- Do you want advice on marketing a business, designing your personal brand, and build entrepreneurial strategies?- Are you ready to overcome fear and turn your skills and experience from the corporate world into your second act business?- Do you crave a flexible lifestyle that allows you to focus on your passions and your family?- Ready to become your own boss and build a business you love?- Is it time to turn your side hustle into a full-time business?If so, you’re in the right place!🎧 New episodes every week to help you start building your second act business and designing a life you love!🔗 For more inspiration and resources, visit https://secondactsuccess.co.Subscribe now and embark on a transformative journey towards your second act!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 7, 2025 • 14min
3 Steps to Achieve Your Goals and Start a Thriving Business in 2025 | Ep #178
Ready to truly achieve your biggest goals in 2025? In this episode of Second Act Success, Shannon Russell shares the three essential steps to set yourself up for entrepreneurial success by hitting your goals this year. From creating clear, actionable goals to building your knowledge base and growing your network, Shannon breaks down the process to help you take confident steps toward your second act. Whether you're dreaming of starting a boutique, a service-based business, or something entirely unique, this episode #178 will inspire you to take action now and make this your year of transformation.Takeaways from this episode:Set Clear, Actionable Goals: Learn how to define your end goals, reverse-engineer your tasks, and create a timeline to stay on track.Invest in Knowledge and Research: Discover how to gain industry insights, build your confidence, and prepare for success through continuous learning.Build Your Network and Community: Find out how to connect with mentors, peers, and potential clients while building a support system to fast-track your progress.If you're ready to make 2025 your year, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you succeed. Don't forget to check out Shannon's Business Bundle for templates and resources to kickstart your journey: https://secondactsuccess.co/businessbundle.Tune in now and start producing your best life!--------******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Jan 1, 2025 • 10min
Career Reflection to Business Action: 2025 Success Starts Here | Ep #177
In this reflective and inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, host Shannon Russell wraps up 2024 with a heartfelt message of gratitude and encouragement. Whether you’ve already started your second act, are exploring new career options, or are taking the leap into building your own business, this episode is packed with motivation to celebrate your progress and plan for an even brighter 2025.Shannon shares personal highlights from her journey over the past year, including selling her franchise business, completing her upcoming book Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life, and launching new projects. She reflects on the lessons learned in 2024 and how they can inspire you to take actionable steps toward achieving your business and career goals in the year ahead.Grab a notebook as Shannon encourages you to reflect on your own wins from the past year—big or small—and map out your dreams for 2025. This episode is your reminder that you’re capable of creating a life and career that truly lights you up.Tune in to celebrate, reset, and prepare to make 2025 your best year yet!Connect with Shannon:Instagram: @secondactsuccessShow Notes: secondactsuccess.co/177Let’s embrace 2025 together!----------******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Dec 23, 2024 • 42min
Dentist turned Consultant: Dr. Jessica Metcalfe on Finding Purpose Beyond the Profession | Ep #176 (Encore)
In this encore episode of Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Dr. Jessica Metcalfe, a dental oncologist turned author, speaker, and consultant. Jessica shares her journey of breaking free from the box she felt trapped in after years of dedication to dentistry. Discover how she transitioned to part-time practice, launched her consulting firm, and became a voice for emotional intelligence and leadership in the workplace.Jessica discusses her bestselling book, Speak Kindly, You're Listening, and how understanding your inner voice can transform your career and life. Learn about the challenges she faced, including burnout and navigating societal expectations, and how she overcame them to create a fulfilling second act.Tune in to be inspired by Jessica's story of resilience, reinvention, and self-compassion. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career or simply need a reminder that change is possible at any time, this episode is for you!🔗 Connect with Dr. Jessica Metcalfe:Instagram: @drjessicametcalfeWebsite: www.drjessicametcalfe.com🎧 Listen now and start crafting your own second act! ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Dec 16, 2024 • 33min
Graphic Artist turned Cookbook Author: Cindy Bertram’s Journey of Creativity and Reinvention in Media | Ep #175
In this episode of Second Act Success, host Shannon Russell interviews Cindy Bertram, a former graphic artist turned television producer and writer who has crafted content for HGTV, Dr. Phil, and TV Guide Network. Cindy shares her fascinating career pivot story, from graphic artist to TV producer, and her latest endeavor as a cookbook author. Discover how Cindy’s diverse skill set and willingness to embrace new challenges have fueled her second act, including creating a business, publishing a cookbook, and mentoring others.Learn how lessons like "learning every job in the room" can apply to any industry, and hear Cindy’s advice for anyone contemplating a career change or starting a new venture. This inspiring conversation is packed with actionable insights and motivation for embracing your passions, overcoming fear, and building a fulfilling second act.3 Key Takeaways for Listeners:Embrace Unexpected OpportunitiesLeverage Your Skills Across IndustriesTake the Leap Without FearSHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/175Connect with Cindy Bertram:Book - California Fork & SpoonInstagram------ ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Dec 9, 2024 • 34min
From Glass Creations to Body & Life Coaching: Meet Courtney Gray | Ep #174
In this inspiring episode of Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell chats with Courtney Gray, a former CEO of a glass and jewelry business turned certified body and life coach. Courtney shares her incredible journey from running a successful multiple six-figure business to finding her true calling in coaching.Discover how Courtney helps women transform their lives through health, wellness, and mindset, proving that taking care of your body can impact every area of life. Learn her top strategies for entrepreneurs working from home to maintain wellness and confidence. Plus, Courtney provides actionable advice for women transitioning from a traditional 9-to-5 job to a fulfilling second act.Whether you're looking to make a career change, improve your wellness, or take your entrepreneurial goals to the next level, this episode #174 is packed with motivation and practical insights.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/174Connect with Courtney Grayhttps://courtneygraycoaching.com/https://courtneygraycoaching.com/podcastFree Course - https://mailchi.mp/courtneygraycoaching/freecourse-------- ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Dec 2, 2024 • 21min
Hallmark Movie Magic Meets Real Life: A Hallmark Guide to Starting Your Business | Ep #173
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—and the perfect time to overcome your fears and chase your entrepreneurial dreams! In this special holiday-themed Episode #173 of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell explores the parallels between your business journey and a classic Hallmark Christmas movie.Just like our favorite holiday heroines, you may feel stuck, scared, or uncertain about taking the leap. But Shannon is here to show you how to rewrite your story, embrace the unknown, and create a magical "happily ever after" by starting the business you’ve been dreaming about.Through festive anecdotes and practical advice, Shannon will help you:🎁 Push past fear and self-doubt🎁 Find your “Christmas angel” mentor to guide you🎁 Embrace the ups and downs of building your dream🎁 Celebrate your successes—big or small—along the wayWhether you’re sipping hot cocoa or brainstorming your next big idea, this episode will inspire you to take action and craft the second act of your dreams. Grab a cozy blanket and tune in—it’s time to create your own holiday magic!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/173----------******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Nov 25, 2024 • 19min
Employee to Entrepreneur: The Mindset Shift for Building Your Dream Business | Ep 172
Transitioning from a 9-to-5 job to running your own business is more than a career change—it’s a complete mindset shift. In this special episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, Shannon Russell shares insights from her limited series podcast, How to Quit Your Job and Start a Business. Learn how to embrace risk, develop a growth mindset, and think like a visionary entrepreneur. Whether you’re preparing to leave your corporate job or are a new business owner, this episode is packed with strategies to help you overcome uncertainty, pivot with confidence, and build a business that lights you up.Tune in to discover how to:Shift from employee to entrepreneurial thinking.Embrace risk and uncertainty as opportunities for growth.Build resilience and persistence to overcome challenges.Expand your network and foster partnerships for success.Ready to produce your best life? Let’s dive in!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/172------******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Nov 18, 2024 • 28min
She Had No Business: Jessica Varian Carroll’s Inspiring Path to Entrepreneurship | Ep #171
In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Jessica Varian Carroll, founder and CEO of Organista Home. Jessica shares her incredible journey from becoming a mom at 19 and working in the automotive industry to launching her home organizing business and publishing her memoir, She Had No Business. Learn how Jessica turned her natural talent for organizing into a thriving business, helping over 300 families declutter, and re-home over a million items to charity.Jessica’s story is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep passion for making a difference. She also discusses her role as a partner in a publishing company and co-founder of the SOAR Women’s Symposium. If you’re looking for motivation to take the leap into your second act or to transform your passion into a career, this episode is a must-listen.Listen now to Episode #171 to discover:How Jessica built her business and overcame obstacles as a single mom of four.The importance of rehoming items to support communities and reduce waste.Advice for starting your second act with confidence and purpose.Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable advice and inspiration!SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/171Connect with Jessica:https://www.organistahome.com/https://www.instagram.com/organistahome/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicavariancarroll/------- ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Nov 12, 2024 • 26min
Goal-Setting for Female Entrepreneurs: Achieve Your Career Change and Business Launch with Confidence | Ep #170
In this empowering episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell dives into goal-setting strategies tailored for women ready to quit their 9-to-5 job and launch a fulfilling business. Discover how clear, intentional goal setting can accelerate your journey from career transition to successful entrepreneur. Shannon shares insights on defining your "why," setting SMART goals, and creating a flexible roadmap that keeps you on track while navigating the challenges of starting a business. Tune in for practical steps, personal reflections, and motivating advice to help you design a business that fits your life and lights you up. Start your path to Second Act success today with Episode #170 of the podcast!SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/170--------- ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...

Nov 4, 2024 • 46min
Engineer turned Organic Gardening CEO: Embracing Sustainable Living with Hélène Hébert | Ep #169
Ready to turn your passion into a thriving business as you start a second act career? Join Shannon Russell on the Second Act Success Career Podcast as she interviews Hélène Hébert, a former nuclear engineer who left a high-powered career to be with her family, while she discovered a love of sustainable living and organic gardening. Hélène's inspiring journey took her from inspecting nuclear reactors to teaching people how to grow their own food year-round in Canada’s challenging climate. Learn how Hélène built her gardening business from the ground up, discovered her life purpose, and found a new path aligned with her values. If you’re thinking about quitting your 9-to-5 and starting your own business, tune in for invaluable insights on embracing change, balancing family, and building a purpose-driven career on Episode #169 of the podcast.SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/169Contact Hélène:https://helenehebert.co---------------------------------------------- ******** Book a free Strategy Call with Shannon Watch the free How To Start a Business Training Download the free Career to Business Roadmap Join the Second Act Accelerator Read Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life ➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok Home Chef Meal Delivery - (free shipping & $4.99 per serving) Flodesk Email Marketing - (25% off your first year) Stitch Fix Personal Stylist - ($25 off your first order) Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting - ($20 off) Podmatch Guesting (*Some affiliate links in...


