Explore all things gap year through stories and anecdotes by gappers, families and experts. Fun to listen to but also jam-packed with tips and tricks for making the most of your gap year. No matter who you are or where you are on your gap year journey, you should be listening to the Gap Year Podcast! Although it is produced for Canadians, the content is universal.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
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
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