From Burnout to Purpose

Special guest Shannon Russell

 

Giveaways https://startyoursecondact.com

 

In this empowering episode of Podcast Profits Unleashed, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with career transition and business coach Shannon Russell—also the brilliant author of Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life.

Shannon’s story is one of courage, clarity, and conscious change. After 16 successful years in the television industry, she made the bold decision to pivot into entrepreneurship, launching a franchise that gave her more time with her family—and more personal fulfillment.

We dove deep into the realities women face when trying to leave careers that no longer serve them, especially during midlife or motherhood. Shannon shares the most common fears her clients experience and how she helps them overcome analysis paralysis and self-doubt by aligning their passion, skills, and values using the UMAP career assessment.

What stood out to me is Shannon’s emphasis on research and realism. She reminds us that not every business idea is a good fit—especially if it conflicts with your lifestyle goals. I loved hearing her examples of how diving into the “day-to-day” of a business idea helps people avoid burnout before it begins.

We also discussed the dangers of diving into entrepreneurship without a clear plan—a mistake she sees far too often, especially among expats and creatives looking for a quick escape from their current path.

Shannon’s structured, tailored approach to coaching is a breath of fresh air. She helps her clients build businesses around their lives—not the other way around. Her message is clear: you can start a second act filled with purpose, but success begins with strategy, self-awareness, and support.

🎧 Key Takeaways:

• Leaving a successful career doesn’t mean starting from scratch—it means starting with intention.
• Passion + planning = sustainable entrepreneurship.
• Know your non-negotiables before building a business.
• "Learn before you leap" is not just advice—it’s a mantra for long-term success.

Whether you're craving more purpose or simply curious about your next move, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, informed, and ready to take aligned action.

SOLO SECTION

 

"Podcasting Powerups: 3 Pro Tips for Consistent, Confident Episodes"

Host: Karen Roberts

This week on Podcast Profits Unleashed, I’m flying solo and bringing you something I know will save your sanity: three podcasting lessons I learned the hard way—so you don’t have to.

Let’s face it: podcasting has a lot of moving parts. From tech glitches to last-minute guest cancellations, things will go wrong. But with the right systems in place, those hiccups don’t have to throw you off your game.

Here’s what I dive into:

✅ Pre-Flight Check Ritual Oh yes—I once forgot to press record on a stellar interview. It hurt. But now I never start without a two-minute pre-flight checklist. I run through mic setup, software, backups, and internet stability—just like a pilot. This one simple habit saves me from tech nightmares and awkward redo requests.

✅ Batch Record Solo Episodes Life happens. Guests cancel. Kids get sick. Your voice disappears. That’s why I batch solo episodes monthly, so I’ve always got content in the bank. Treat these as your secret weapon—quick, valuable, and 100% in your control. It’s how I stay consistent even when things go sideways behind the scenes.

✅ Follow Up Like a Pro Don’t assume your guest will promote your episode. They won’t—unless you make it easy. I always book a follow-up, send promo packs with ready-made content from their perspective, and make sure they feel like the star they are. That’s how we turn great interviews into lasting collaborations.

🔥 Key Takeaways:

• I always do a tech checklist before recording. No exceptions.
• I batch solo content so I’m never scrambling when life throws a curveball.
• I never assume guests will promote—so I give them everything they need to shine.

These little powerups have made my podcast sustainable, professional, and profitable.

Feeling overwhelmed with all the moving parts? Watch my free on-demand workshop, Your Six-Figure Podcast Blueprint, at podcastprofitsunleashed.com/free, and book your complimentary strategy call. Let’s take the pressure off and build your show the smart way.

Until next week, keep podcasting like a pro.