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

Are you ready to turn your career into your own business and ask yourself, “Why not me?” In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast Episode #180, host Shannon Russell sits down with media powerhouse and entrepreneur Cookie Zito. Cookie shares her inspiring journey from MTV and Yahoo to launching the Christy Maz Network, a digital hub for women that combines fashion, media, and community.Discover how Cookie transitioned from behind-the-scenes television producer to building her own brand, network, and clothing line—all while empowering women to follow their passions. From overcoming fears to navigating venture capital and creating a thriving sisterhood, Cookie’s story is a testament to resilience and vision.Tune in to hear her advice on finding funding, balancing creativity with business strategy, and turning your career expertise into something that lights you up. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with actionable insights for women ready to make their big leap into their second act!Takeaways:Fear Is Part of the Journey—Do It Anyway.Leverage Your Career Experience.Bootstrap When You Can, Seek Funding When You Need It.Build a Business That Aligns With Your Values.Ask Yourself "Why Not Me?"SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/180Connect with Cookie Zito:https://christymaznetwork.com/https://www.instagram.com/christymaznetwork/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cookie-zito-2990176/----------------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)

Are you a creative thinking about going into business for yourself?You'll want to tune in for this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, where host Shannon Russell chats with Lindsay Smith, a seasoned copywriter and content strategist, about her inspiring career journey to building her own business. From her beginnings at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) to a thriving career in advertising, Lindsay discovered her passion for storytelling and content creation. Now the founder of Lindsay Smith Creative, she helps small business owners transform their relationship with content by blending strategy, creativity, and intuition. Lindsay shares actionable tips for crafting compelling content, overcoming overwhelm, and trusting your creative instincts to grow your business in 2025 and beyond.If you’re ready to use content to elevate your brand or considering a leap into entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with wisdom you don’t want to miss.Takeaways:Content Strategy Simplified: Learn why content isn’t just social media—it’s your website, email marketing, blog, and overall online presence.Trust Your Creative Instincts: Discover how to unlock your best ideas by stepping away from the screen and embracing creative intuition.Permission to Pivot: Overcome fear and take the leap into entrepreneurship by leveraging transferable skills from your previous career.Consistency Over Perfection: Focus on sharing authentic, valuable content rather than chasing rigid posting schedules or algorithms.The Power of the Long Game: Understand why success in business and content marketing requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace mistakes.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/179Connect with Lindsay:https://www.lindsaysmithcreative.ca/https://www.instagram.com/lindsaysmithcreative/https://www.lindsaysmithcreative.ca/contentmagic-podcast---------------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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)

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 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)