

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

Aug 26, 2024 • 46min
Navigating the Military to Civilian Career Shift with Cheryl Cross | Ep #160
In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Cheryl Cross, an expert in military to civilian career transitions and author of Civilian Mission: The Three-Year Guide for Military Professionals Planning Civilian Careers. Cheryl shares her journey from a professional broadcaster to a workforce development councilwoman in Hawaii, and how she’s helping military veterans navigate the complexities of transitioning to civilian life. Discover actionable strategies for career change, the importance of starting your transition early, and how to leverage your military skills in the civilian job market. Whether you're a veteran or someone supporting a veteran through their career shift, this episode is packed with insights to help you achieve a successful second act. Tune in to learn how to master your military to civilian career transition and start your new chapter with confidence.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/160Connect with Cheryl CrossWebsite/Podcast - https://www.xchangepodcast.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylcross/Book - https://www.xchangepodcast.com/book/---------------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)

Aug 19, 2024 • 37min
From MTV to Entrepreneurship: Raquel Bruno's Journey to Success and Joy | Ep #159
Ready to turn your passion into a thriving business? On this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell interviews Raquel Bruno, a former MTV Networks executive who took the leap to start her own entertainment company, Drive Entertainment Group. Raquel shares her inspiring journey from the fast-paced world of Viacom to becoming a successful entrepreneur, executive producer, and DJ on Twitch. Learn how she balanced motherhood, built a thriving career in talent production, and found true joy in her second act. Tune in to Episode #159 for actionable insights on quitting your 9-to-5 and starting a business that lights you up!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/159Connect with Raquel BrunoWebsiteInstagramTwitch----------------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)

Aug 12, 2024 • 42min
Mastering Money: How to Save, Get Out of Debt, & Monetize Your Passion with Sara Conklin of Frozen Pennies | Ep #158
In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell dives deep into financial empowerment with Sara Conklin, the founder of Frozen Pennies. Sara shares her inspiring journey from being an English major and preschool teacher to becoming a financial coach and YouTube content creator. Discover actionable tips on how to save money, get out of debt, and build a profitable online business. Sara’s expertise in frugal living, combined with her practical approach to money management, will help you take control of your finances and prepare for a successful career change. Tune in to learn how to make smarter financial decisions, monetize your passion, and create a sustainable income stream, all while enjoying the freedom of entrepreneurship. Don’t miss this episode packed with valuable insights for women in midlife looking to achieve financial independence and career success.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/158Connect with Sara Conklin:frozenpennies.comyoutube.com/@saraconklinfrozenpennies---------------------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)

Aug 5, 2024 • 27min
Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential: Your business questions answered with Shannon Russell | Ep #157
Welcome to the Second Act Success Career Podcast with your host, Shannon Russell. In this special episode, we're sharing a live Q&A session from our recent Business Brainstorm Bootcamp. You'll hear real-time interactions and questions from women just like you, who are thinking about leaving their corporate jobs to start their own businesses. Shannon offers valuable insights and practical advice on various topics, including setting up an LLC, defining your ideal customers, managing startup costs, and prioritizing multiple business ideas. If you're ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with the answers and encouragement you need to get started.Tune in to hear about:How to get started with creating an LLC and the importance of an EIN.The difference between an LLC name and a company name, and the importance of a DBA.Creative resources for designing your logo and branding.Tips on choosing a business name and whether to use your personal name.Costs associated with starting different types of businesses.Prioritizing multiple business ideas and focusing on what's feasible.Defining and targeting your ideal customers.Researching and troubleshooting business ideas.Resources and grants for women-owned businesses.Deciding on parent companies and sub-entities.Finding and securing rental properties for storefronts.Whether you're just starting to dream about your future business or ready to take action, this episode is filled with practical steps to help you along your journey. Don't miss out on this informative and inspiring Q&A session!SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/157______________--------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)

Jul 30, 2024 • 38min
From Corporate Grind to Social Marketing Success: Jessica Stephens’ Inspiring Journey | Ep #156
Ready to escape the corporate grind and start a business that offers you flexibility and fulfillment? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell dives deep into an incredible second act success story with guest Jessica Stephens. Jessica, a former high-powered corporate marketer, shares her transformative journey from the demanding world of advertising to becoming a thriving social marketer and online entrepreneur.Jessica reveals the pivotal moments that made her reconsider her career path, including her desire for more time with her pilot husband and the realization that her high-stress job was taking a toll on her health and happiness. Discover how Jessica turned a side hustle into a full-time business in just two years, leveraging her skills and passion to build a flexible, mobile career that aligns with her personal goals.Tune in to hear about Jessica’s unique insights on transitioning from a corporate job to running a successful online business, the importance of having a strong "why," and practical tips for anyone looking to make a similar leap. If you're ready to be inspired and learn how to create your best life through entrepreneurship, this episode is a must-listen!SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/156Connect with Jessica Stephens:InstagramLinkedInWebsite and 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)

Jul 25, 2024 • 17min
Top Business Ideas for Women Looking to Break Free From their 9-5 | Ep #155
Welcome to the Business Brainstorm Mini Series on the Second Act Success Career Podcast! In this episode, host Shannon Russell dives into the surge of women-owned businesses in 2024. Discover the top 5 business ideas women are pursuing today, from consulting services to e-commerce, freelance writing, health coaching, and event planning. Shannon also addresses the common challenges women face when starting their entrepreneurial journey, such as balancing work and family, overcoming fear of failure, and securing funding. Get inspired by the success stories of iconic women entrepreneurs like Oprah Winfrey and Sara Blakely, and learn practical tips to launch your own business with confidence. Join us and take the first step towards your second act success!Tune in to this insightful episode and don't forget to catch up on the previous parts of this mini-series. Sign up for Shannon's free Business Brainstorm Bootcamp happening from July 30th to August 1st at secondactsuccess.co/brainstorm.Listen, subscribe, and share with a friend who's ready to embrace their entrepreneurial journey!SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/155--------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)

Jul 22, 2024 • 25min
Side Hustle to Full-Time Business: How to Know When You're Ready | Ep #154
Welcome to the Business Brainstorm Mini-Series on the Second Act Success Career Podcast! In this episode, host Shannon Russell dives into the crucial topic of transitioning your side hustle into a full-time business. Discover why nearly 40% of U.S. adults have side hustles and how you can leverage this trend to achieve financial freedom and entrepreneurial success.Shannon shares essential insights on the following:The benefits and challenges of starting a side hustle while maintaining a 9-to-5 job.The financial, mindset, and market criteria to assess your readiness for full-time entrepreneurship.Real-life examples and practical steps to ensure a smooth transition.The importance of market research, financial planning, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration to make your business dreams a reality. Plus, don't miss out on Shannon's free Business Brainstorm Bootcamp from July 30th to August 1st! Sign up now at https://secondactsuccess.co/brainstorm.Join Shannon for two one-hour online workshops and a live Q&A session to answer all your business startup questions. You'll also receive a free business startup checklist to guide you every step of the way. Don't miss this opportunity to turn your side hustle into a thriving full-time business!SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/154--------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)

Jul 18, 2024 • 20min
From Passion to Profit: Choosing the Perfect Business for Your Second Act | Ep#153
Welcome to the Business Brainstorm Mini-Series on the Second Act Success Career Podcast! This is the second episode in this four-part series. In today's episode, host Shannon Russell dives into one of the most exciting yet challenging questions aspiring entrepreneurs face: "How do I decide what type of business to start?"If you're ready to leave your nine-to-five and embark on a journey to create a business that's perfectly aligned with your skills, passions, and lifestyle needs, this episode is for you. Shannon shares actionable steps to identify your ideal business idea, from self-assessment to market research, and highlights the importance of considering financial feasibility and lifestyle adjustments. Plus, she provides insights on how to validate your ideas and ensure they meet your non-negotiables.Join us as we explore strategies to help you transition from your corporate job to a fulfilling entrepreneurial venture. Don't forget to sign up for Shannon's free Business Brainstorm Mini-Bootcamp happening July 30th through August 1st at secondactsuccess.co/brainstorm for more in-depth guidance and support.Go back to Episode #152 to listen to the first episode in this mini-series all about planning your exit strategy. https://secondactsuccess.co/152SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/153---------------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)

Jul 15, 2024 • 21min
Plan Your Exit Strategy & Go From 9 to 5 to Your Dream Business | Ep #152
Welcome to the Second Act Success Career Podcast! I'm your host, Shannon Russell, and this is the first in a four-part Business Brainstorm Mini-Series. Are you ready to quit your nine-to-five job and start your own business? If you’re feeling stuck in your current role and dreaming of becoming your own boss, this episode is for you.In this episode, we’ll dive into how to plan your exit strategy from your current job to ensure a smooth and confident transition. You’ll learn how to assess your skills, understand your financial needs, and come up with a viable business idea. We’ll also discuss the importance of timing your exit and how to manage the emotional aspects of leaving a long-term job.Join me as I share practical tips and strategies to help you build the foundation for your new business while still working your nine-to-five. Plus, I’ll provide insights on creating your brand identity and planning your marketing strategy.Don’t forget to sign up for our free Business Brainstorm Mini-Bootcamp happening from July 30th to August 1st at secondactsuccess.co/brainstorm. You’ll get two one-hour online workshops and a live Q&A session, plus a free business startup checklist to help you plan your next move.Tune in, get inspired, and start your journey toward Second Act Success! If you enjoy this episode, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode.SHOW NOTES:https://secondactsuccess.co/152----------------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)

Jul 10, 2024 • 35min
Mastering Content Marketing and LinkedIn with Annette Richmond | Ep #151
Ready to learn more about the powers of LinkedIn and how content marketing can change your journey to second act success? Join Shannon and her talented guest Annette Richmond for Episode #151 of the Second Act Success Career Podcast. Annette is a seasoned content marketing strategist who shares her unique journey from writing for magazines to becoming a LinkedIn expert. Discover invaluable insights as Annette discusses the unexpected tasks that come with dream jobs and how she transitioned her skills into the digital marketing realm. Learn practical tips on how to leverage LinkedIn for your business, create compelling content, and build a robust online presence.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a service provider, or someone looking to enhance your online visibility, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive. SHOW NOTEShttps://secondactsuccess.co/151Connect with Annettelinkedin.com/in/annetterichmondblackdogmarketingstrategies.com/consultations-coaching/tiktok.com/@annetteadvises -----------------------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)


