Second Act Success: Business Tips & Career Change Advice for Women
Shannon Russell | Business Coach for Women and Author of Start Your Second Act
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 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 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!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 30, 2025 • 28min
200th Episode Special: Your Biggest Career Change & Business Questions Answered! | #200
🎉 It’s the 200th episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, and we’re celebrating with a special Q&A edition! Host and business coach, Shannon Russell, is answering your most pressing questions about how to quit your job, start a business, and reinvent yourself at any age.In this milestone episode, Shannon covers: ✔️ How to know when it’s the right time to quit your 9-5 ✔️ What to do if you have a business idea but aren’t sure it’s good enough ✔️ How to figure out your next step if you feel lost or stuck ✔️ Planning your exit strategy while keeping your paycheck ✔️ Overcoming fear of judgment when leaving a traditional career ✔️ Starting over at any age—even in your 50s or beyondWhether you're planning your second act or unsure what’s next, this episode offers empowering insights, practical advice, and real-world strategies to help you take that leap—with confidence.📚 Plus, Shannon shares how to get started with the YouMap® assessment and where to grab her new book, Start Your Second Act.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/200--------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
Jun 23, 2025 • 29min
Thriving After 50: Lynnis Woods-Mullins on Health, Purpose, and Starting Over | #199
In this empowering episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell speaks with holistic living expert, life coach, and wellness advocate Lynnis Woods-Mullins. After a successful career in corporate HR, Lynnis took a life-changing leap at age 51—leaving her job due to anxiety and burnout to reclaim her health and purpose. What started as a sabbatical turned into a thriving second act in holistic health and midlife coaching.Lynnis shares how she built her online business from scratch, long before virtual coaching was mainstream. She now leads a global wellness network, hosts a top-ranked podcast, and mentors thousands of women over 40 to thrive in mind, body, and spirit.This episode is full of actionable inspiration for anyone wondering if it's too late to change careers, start a business, or put themselves first.Key Takeaways:How to transition careers at midlife with purposeSigns of menopausal anxiety and how to advocate for your healthBuilding an online wellness business from scratchWhy women over 40 must prioritize themselves—and how to startThe power of resilience, reinvention, and community supportSHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/199Connect with Lynnis Woods-Mullins:https://www.vibewellnesswoman.com/https://www.vibelivingpodcast.com/https://www.instagram.com/vibewellnesswoman/---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
Jun 16, 2025 • 38min
From China to CEO: How Sunny Sun Built a Business and a Life She Loves in America | #198
In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Sunny Sun, a first-generation immigrant from China turned entrepreneur and nonprofit founder. Sunny shares her remarkable journey from moving to the United States for college to leaving a fast-paced corporate finance career as an accountant in Manhattan to start her own STEM-based education business with Snapology in New Jersey.Sunny opens up about cultural transitions, embracing motherhood, building a business from the ground up, and the mindset shift from employee to entrepreneur. She also dives into how she found purpose in her second act as a ski instructor and founder of the nonprofit Winter Passion, dedicated to making winter sports more accessible.Whether you're exploring a career pivot, considering starting a business, or just need a boost of motivation, Sunny’s story is a must-listen.Key Takeaways:How to transition careers as a first-generation immigrantBalancing motherhood and entrepreneurshipWhy franchising can be a great first step in business ownershipOvercoming fear and cultural barriers to become a confident entrepreneurTips for women starting a business after corporate lifeSHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/198Connect with Sunny Sun:http://summit.snapology.com/winterpassion.org------------------------------------------------------------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
Jun 9, 2025 • 17min
Pivoting as a Creative: How to Turn Your Talent Into a Thriving Business | #197
Feeling stuck in your creative career? Whether you're a producer, designer, editor, writer, artist, or performer—this episode is your roadmap to turning your creative skills into a successful business. Host Shannon Russell, a former TV producer turned business coach, shares how she transitioned out of the entertainment industry and built a thriving second act as an entrepreneur.In this episode, Shannon breaks down the realities of burnout, layoffs, and instability that many creatives are facing in today's economy—and offers 5 powerful strategies to help you take back control, identify your transferable skills, and start a business that reflects your passion and purpose.If you’ve been wondering, “How can I use my creative experience to start something of my own?” — this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:Why now is the ideal time for creatives to pivotHow to identify and repurpose your creative skill setReal business ideas for people with creative careersTips for building a business before quitting your day jobHow to redefine success on your own termsAccess Shannon’s free masterclass: 3 Secrets to Escape Your Desk Job and Set Up a Business in 3 Months https://secondactsuccess.co/secretsSHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/197------------------------------------------------------------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
Jun 2, 2025 • 32min
Gym Owner to Franchise Founder: How Devan Gonzalez Used Mindset To Build a Profitable Business | #196
What does it take to turn a passion for fitness into a thriving business—and then franchise it successfully across the country? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Devan Gonzalez, fitness entrepreneur and co-founder of Strive 11 Fitness, to explore how he turned his love of coaching into a six-figure in-person training business and later launched a successful gym franchise.Devan shares how mindset shaped every step of his journey—from being a 13-year-old martial arts instructor to opening his own gym during the pandemic and expanding into multiple locations through franchising. This conversation covers the real truth behind franchising a business, why mindset is everything, and how betting on yourself is often the safest risk you can take.Whether you're dreaming of quitting your 9-5, opening a brick-and-mortar business, or scaling your current idea, this episode is packed with advice to help you take the leap with clarity and confidence.Key Takeaways:Why time is your most valuable asset when launching a businessThe difference between franchising and licensing—and which one fits your goalsHow to adapt your business model as you growTips for negotiating lease terms and working with landlordsThe role of mindset in overcoming fear, failure, and building long-term successHow to support franchisees with real estate, branding, and operations from the startSHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/196Connect with Devan Gonzalez:https://www.strive11fitness.com/https://www.facebook.com/devangonzalez.officialhttps://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-cafe/id1650827999----------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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 27, 2025 • 35min
Art of Online Teaching: How Shannon Boyer Transformed Her Education Career | #195
Have you ever wondered if your professional experience could be turned into a thriving business? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with curriculum and course creation expert Shannon Boyer to explore how she transitioned from a career in college education to launching a business that empowers entrepreneurs to teach what they know—successfully and effectively.Shannon Boyer shares how her second act began during a maternity leave, why impactful work has always driven her career decisions, and how she cold-pitched her way into building a business that now supports online educators around the world. If you've ever considered creating an online course or are looking for a flexible business idea that aligns with your expertise, this episode will inspire and inform.🔑 Key Takeaways:How to identify your area of expertise and turn it into an online courseThe most common mistakes new course creators make—and how to avoid themWhy feedback, structure, and interaction are essential for student successHow Shannon built her business organically with zero website or social proofThe truth about “passive income” and the real work behind successful coursesWhether you’re starting your second act or looking to grow your current business, Shannon Boyer’s story proves that your experience is valuable—and teachable.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/195Connect with Shannon:https://www.shannonlboyer.com/https://www.shannonlboyer.com/podcasthttps://www.shannonlboyer.com/freebieshttps://www.instagram.com/shannonlboyer/https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonlboyer/---------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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 19, 2025 • 14min
Reignite Your Childhood Dreams: Why It’s Never Too Late to Start Your Second Act | #194
Are you feeling stuck in your career or craving more creativity and fulfillment in your life? In this inspiring solo episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell encourages you to rediscover the dreams you once held and explore how to bring them into your present life. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, dreaming of launching a business, or simply want to feel more alive in your day-to-day, this episode is your reminder that it’s never too late to start fresh.Shannon shares personal stories, reflective questions, and actionable steps to help you reconnect with your younger self, reignite your passions, and take that first small step toward your next chapter—your Second Act.Key Takeaways:Why your childhood dreams still matterHow to recognize signs and nudges pointing you toward changeWhy small pivots can lead to big transformationsHow to give yourself permission to dream again (without guilt)Practical ideas to begin exploring your passions now🎧 Tune in and learn how to embrace the permission to start again—on your terms.🔗 Visit secondactsuccess.co for more career transition resources. 📩 DM Shannon on Instagram @secondactsuccess and share how you're pursuing your second act!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/194----------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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 13, 2025 • 27min
How One ADHD Diagnosis Sparked a New Career Helping Creative Entrepreneurs Thrive | #193
After 19 years in education and an ADHD diagnosis, Cindy Baker made a bold pivot—leaving the classroom to launch her own business as a productivity coach for entrepreneurs. In this inspiring episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Cindy to discuss her career evolution, her late-in-life ADHD diagnosis, and how she turned her challenges into a business that helps others.Cindy retired early from teaching career to venture into coaching to help other entrepreneurs with her proven productivity strategies and focus techniques. She is now teaching creative professionals and neurodivergent entrepreneurs how to approach their work in a more productive way.Whether you're exploring a second act, starting a business, or learning to manage ADHD as an adult, Cindy’s story will leave you empowered to move forward with purpose. SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/193Connect with Cindy Baker:https://www.instagram.com/cbc_cindybakercoaching/https://www.facebook.com/groups/productivityforprofitshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/productivitycoachcindybaker/https://cindybakercoaching.com/bit.ly/procrastinationcourse---------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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 7, 2025 • 19min
Publication Day! My Book Start Your Second Act Is Out Now! | #192
It’s publication day for my new book! In this special episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell celebrates the release of her new book, Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life. Shannon reads pages from Chapter 2 of her book, diving into what a “second act” truly means and how women can embrace the powerful pivot from feeling stuck in a job to starting something that lights them up. This heartfelt reading is a sneak peak into what this book explores- how life stages influence career shifts, why nine out of ten women dream of changing careers, and how to turn fear into fuel for transformation.🎯 Key Takeaways:Discover the true meaning of a "second act" and how it relates to your life and career.Learn why career change is often necessary for fulfillment and health.Understand the myth of career stability and how to take control of your work and life.Get inspired by real-world statistics and stories of reinvention.Find clarity around whether it’s time for you to make a career shift or start your own business.🔗 Grab your copy of the book at startyoursecondact.com or wherever you buy books!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/192-----------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
Apr 29, 2025 • 15min
I Said No to Taylor Swift: A Career Shift That Changed My Life | #191
Have you ever faced a life-changing crossroads where you had to choose between your career and your heart? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell shares a deeply personal story about the day she said no to interviewing Taylor Swift — and why that pivotal decision changed the course of her career and life.From working as a television producer for major networks to choosing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Shannon reflects on the moment she realized her dream had evolved — and why it's okay for yours to evolve too. Tune in to hear how trusting your instincts, even during difficult moments, can lead to a more fulfilling second act.Key Takeaways:It's okay to outgrow the dreams you once chased.Priorities shift as we move through different seasons of life.Defining success on your own terms leads to a life of greater purpose.How one brave decision can spark an entirely new career and identity.Why permission to pivot is the greatest gift you can give yourself.Whether you’re contemplating a career change, starting a business, or simply wondering if it’s time for a second act, this episode will inspire you to trust yourself — and take the leap.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/191Shannon's book- Start Your Second Act - https://startyoursecondact.com-----------------Book a free Strategy Call with ShannonDownload Free Resources➡️ Let's Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTokMore 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)
