ADULT GAP YEAR SERIES: Your Standing-Ovation-Worthy Second Act with Shannon Russell

Michelle spoke with Shannon Russell about reinvention, especially for women navigating career and life transitions. Shannon shared her own path from 16 years in television production to entrepreneurship, coaching, and writing, and explained how to approach change as a purposeful “second act” rather than a loss. About Shannon Former television producer with a 16-year career in TV Transitioned after becoming a mom Founder of multiple businesses Author of Start Your Second Act Coaches women through career reinvention and entrepreneurship Main Themes Women often follow a “rules-based” path until life changes prompt reassessment Career shifts can happen after motherhood, caregiving, burnout, layoffs, or simple restlessness A non-linear path is not a failure — it’s a stepping stone Reframing change as a new chapter or second act helps reduce fear How to Know It’s Time for a Change Ask: Why am I considering this move? Identify what about the next step is exciting Notice whether your current role still aligns with your values, life stage, and needs Consider whether you’ll regret not making the change later Practical Advice Do your research before leaping Learn the actual day-to-day of a new role or business Talk to people in the field Understand the financial realities Keep early plans private until you feel confident Start small if needed — a second act does not have to be a giant leap Key Takeaway Shannon encouraged listeners to stop waiting for the perfect time and instead move forward with clarity, curiosity, and confidence. Small steps, thoughtful research, and staying connected to your “why” can help make a new chapter feel possible. Website 🎬 Second Act Success: https://secondactsuccess.co/   Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association   Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/ Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/ Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ