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Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life
The ultimate guide to pivot with purpose, reinvent your career, and produce your best life.The career that once inspired you no longer fits your life, and a nagging voice inside tells you there’s something more. When your mind, heart, and dreams no longer align with your current path, it’s time to start your second act.
Shannon Russell, a former TV producer turned entrepreneur and career/business coach, understands the fears and challenges of disrupting your carefully planned career and taking the leap into something more. Drawing on her personal experiences and the success stories of other women, she shares her proven three-step Second Act Strategy (reflect, research, realize) to guide you from where you are now to where you want to be.
Start Your Second Act is a strategic, actionable guide to taking your past experience and using it to build a career or a business that fulfills you. With practical exercises, the powerful YouMap assessment, and self-empowerment insights, this book helps you reimagine your career and build a second act that works for both you and your family.
What you’ll to clarify your why and use it as a foundation for your next chapter.Strategies to rebrand yourself for success, whether changing careers or launching a business.Methods to overcome fear, plan strategically, and align your career change with your values and goals.Tools to prepare for transitions while minimizing financial and personal disruption.Inspirational success stories from real women who’ve built their own second acts.
This isn’t about taking blind risks—it’s about making thoughtful, strategic decisions that align with your life priorities. More than just a career guide, Start Your Second Act challenges you to rethink what’s possible and start on a professional growth journey that’s as fulfilling as it is purposeful.
Whether you dream of starting a business, changing industries, or finding a role that fits your life today, this book gives you the tools to design your next chapter and create a career—and life—you love.
Shannon Russell, a former TV producer turned entrepreneur and career/business coach, understands the fears and challenges of disrupting your carefully planned career and taking the leap into something more. Drawing on her personal experiences and the success stories of other women, she shares her proven three-step Second Act Strategy (reflect, research, realize) to guide you from where you are now to where you want to be.
Start Your Second Act is a strategic, actionable guide to taking your past experience and using it to build a career or a business that fulfills you. With practical exercises, the powerful YouMap assessment, and self-empowerment insights, this book helps you reimagine your career and build a second act that works for both you and your family.
What you’ll to clarify your why and use it as a foundation for your next chapter.Strategies to rebrand yourself for success, whether changing careers or launching a business.Methods to overcome fear, plan strategically, and align your career change with your values and goals.Tools to prepare for transitions while minimizing financial and personal disruption.Inspirational success stories from real women who’ve built their own second acts.
This isn’t about taking blind risks—it’s about making thoughtful, strategic decisions that align with your life priorities. More than just a career guide, Start Your Second Act challenges you to rethink what’s possible and start on a professional growth journey that’s as fulfilling as it is purposeful.
Whether you dream of starting a business, changing industries, or finding a role that fits your life today, this book gives you the tools to design your next chapter and create a career—and life—you love.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2025
9 people are currently reading
807 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Russell
1 book7 followers Shannon Russell is a certified career transition and business coach and the founder of Second Act Success, where she helps women pivot from unfulfilling careers and build second acts that align with their passions and values. Known for her motto, “Produce your best life,” Shannon empowers her clients to move from employee to entrepreneur with strategic exit plans and personalized guidance. She is also the host of Second Act Success Career Podcast and How to Quit Your Job and Start a Business podcast, where she shares actionable advice and inspiring stories to motivate others to embrace their potential.
With certifications in YouMap and LEGO Serious Play, and as a national speaker, Shannon combines professional expertise with a creative approach to career transitions and building businesses. She specializes in helping women gain clarity, confidence, and balance while reimagining their professional paths. Her company, Second Act Success, allows her to share her journey and expertise as a television executive turned entrepreneur and mom. Shannon’s work and insights have been featured in Authority Magazine, HerStory Magazine, Franchise Business Review, and numerous podcasts and media outlets.
Shannon spent over 16 years as a television producer in New York City and Los Angeles, working for major networks like MTV, E!, VH1, A&E, TLC, and Yahoo! While she loved her career in entertainment, becoming a mom led her to reevaluate her priorities and refocus her life. In 2016, she pivoted to entrepreneurship, opening a Snapology franchise that taught children STEM education. Under her leadership, the franchise became one of the top-performing in the country. Inspired by this success, Shannon launched Second Act Success to help women in similar situations pivot their careers to build businesses that provide balance and fulfillment.
Shannon was the first person in her family to attend college, earning a BA in communications from Elon University in North Carolina. During her studies, she interned at CBS News and MTV, which launched her career in television production. Today, she lives in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, close to her extended family. When she’s not coaching, podcasting, or speaking on stages, Shannon enjoys traveling, reading, attending theater productions, and unwinding with Hallmark movies.
Through her coaching, podcasts, and speaking engagements, Shannon supports women in creating intentional and fulfilling second acts. Visit her at secondactsuccess.co or follow her on social media to learn more.
With certifications in YouMap and LEGO Serious Play, and as a national speaker, Shannon combines professional expertise with a creative approach to career transitions and building businesses. She specializes in helping women gain clarity, confidence, and balance while reimagining their professional paths. Her company, Second Act Success, allows her to share her journey and expertise as a television executive turned entrepreneur and mom. Shannon’s work and insights have been featured in Authority Magazine, HerStory Magazine, Franchise Business Review, and numerous podcasts and media outlets.
Shannon spent over 16 years as a television producer in New York City and Los Angeles, working for major networks like MTV, E!, VH1, A&E, TLC, and Yahoo! While she loved her career in entertainment, becoming a mom led her to reevaluate her priorities and refocus her life. In 2016, she pivoted to entrepreneurship, opening a Snapology franchise that taught children STEM education. Under her leadership, the franchise became one of the top-performing in the country. Inspired by this success, Shannon launched Second Act Success to help women in similar situations pivot their careers to build businesses that provide balance and fulfillment.
Shannon was the first person in her family to attend college, earning a BA in communications from Elon University in North Carolina. During her studies, she interned at CBS News and MTV, which launched her career in television production. Today, she lives in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, with her husband, two sons, and their dog, close to her extended family. When she’s not coaching, podcasting, or speaking on stages, Shannon enjoys traveling, reading, attending theater productions, and unwinding with Hallmark movies.
Through her coaching, podcasts, and speaking engagements, Shannon supports women in creating intentional and fulfilling second acts. Visit her at secondactsuccess.co or follow her on social media to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 1, 2025
An Empowering Blueprint for Reinventing Your Career with Clarity and Confidence
Start Your Second Act by Shannon Russell is an inspiring and practical resource for anyone standing at the crossroads of professional change, especially those who feel the pull toward something more meaningful but aren’t sure where to start. With a background as a successful TV producer turned entrepreneur and coach, Russell brings both credibility and relatability to this career transformation guide.
The book lays out a clear and thoughtful process to help readers transition into a new phase of professional life—whether that’s launching a business, switching industries, or realigning work with personal values. What stands out is Russell’s structured “Second Act Strategy,” which breaks the overwhelming concept of career change into three manageable stages: reflection, exploration, and action. Unlike other career books that lean heavily on motivation without direction, this one is rooted in strategy. Readers are guided through self-assessments, goal-setting exercises, and personal branding tips, all while being encouraged to confront internal fears and external barriers with purpose. The inclusion of the YouMap tool adds another layer of insight by helping readers better understand their strengths and motivations.
Equally powerful are the real-life stories shared throughout, offering a glimpse into the journeys of women who have successfully navigated their own transitions. These case studies offer not only inspiration but also tangible proof that reinvention is both possible and rewarding. Russell emphasizes planning over impulsiveness, making this an ideal guide for those who want to take bold steps without sacrificing stability or personal commitments. It’s not just about finding another job—it’s about building a career that truly fits who you are today.
Start Your Second Act is a must-read for professionals ready to turn uncertainty into opportunity and design a future that’s both fulfilling and aligned with their evolving goals.
Start Your Second Act by Shannon Russell is an inspiring and practical resource for anyone standing at the crossroads of professional change, especially those who feel the pull toward something more meaningful but aren’t sure where to start. With a background as a successful TV producer turned entrepreneur and coach, Russell brings both credibility and relatability to this career transformation guide.
The book lays out a clear and thoughtful process to help readers transition into a new phase of professional life—whether that’s launching a business, switching industries, or realigning work with personal values. What stands out is Russell’s structured “Second Act Strategy,” which breaks the overwhelming concept of career change into three manageable stages: reflection, exploration, and action. Unlike other career books that lean heavily on motivation without direction, this one is rooted in strategy. Readers are guided through self-assessments, goal-setting exercises, and personal branding tips, all while being encouraged to confront internal fears and external barriers with purpose. The inclusion of the YouMap tool adds another layer of insight by helping readers better understand their strengths and motivations.
Equally powerful are the real-life stories shared throughout, offering a glimpse into the journeys of women who have successfully navigated their own transitions. These case studies offer not only inspiration but also tangible proof that reinvention is both possible and rewarding. Russell emphasizes planning over impulsiveness, making this an ideal guide for those who want to take bold steps without sacrificing stability or personal commitments. It’s not just about finding another job—it’s about building a career that truly fits who you are today.
Start Your Second Act is a must-read for professionals ready to turn uncertainty into opportunity and design a future that’s both fulfilling and aligned with their evolving goals.
April 12, 2025
I was very excited to receive an advanced copy of Start Your Second Act before its official release on May 7—and I can confidently say this book is a game-changer for anyone feeling stuck, uninspired, or ready for a fresh chapter in their professional life.
This isn’t just another career advice book filled with generic tips. Author Shannon Russell shares her own powerful story—transitioning from a fast-paced, successful career as a Hollywood TV producer, to launching a children’s STEM education center, and now stepping fully into her role as a certified career transition and business coach, national speaker, podcaster and published author. Her journey alone is inspiring, but what makes this book truly enjoyable and relatable is how she uses her experience to guide others with clarity, humor, and real heart.
What stood out most while reading Start Your Second Act, was that it never really felt like I was just reading a book. The tone is very comforting, while also sparking my inner curiosity. It felt more like I was having a one-on-one conversation with Shannon as she guided me through exercises designed to highlight my strengths, identify areas for growth, and map out a clear, step-by-step plan to reach my dream job. The author reminds us that it's okay (and even necessary) to take a chance on ourselves in order to create the life and career of our dreams.
Several memorable one-liners have stuck with me long after finishing the book…“Unboss yourself”, “Learn before you leap”, and my favorite, “Produce your best life” – a clever nod to the author's TV roots, and a reminder that we’re all in charge of our own stories.
This book isn’t just for those looking to change careers—it’s for anyone craving fulfillment, purpose, and a little guidance to take that bold next step. If you’ve lost your spark or feel like your current routine no longer aligns with your goals, Start Your Second Act is the nudge you need to trust your gut and go for it.
This isn’t just another career advice book filled with generic tips. Author Shannon Russell shares her own powerful story—transitioning from a fast-paced, successful career as a Hollywood TV producer, to launching a children’s STEM education center, and now stepping fully into her role as a certified career transition and business coach, national speaker, podcaster and published author. Her journey alone is inspiring, but what makes this book truly enjoyable and relatable is how she uses her experience to guide others with clarity, humor, and real heart.
What stood out most while reading Start Your Second Act, was that it never really felt like I was just reading a book. The tone is very comforting, while also sparking my inner curiosity. It felt more like I was having a one-on-one conversation with Shannon as she guided me through exercises designed to highlight my strengths, identify areas for growth, and map out a clear, step-by-step plan to reach my dream job. The author reminds us that it's okay (and even necessary) to take a chance on ourselves in order to create the life and career of our dreams.
Several memorable one-liners have stuck with me long after finishing the book…“Unboss yourself”, “Learn before you leap”, and my favorite, “Produce your best life” – a clever nod to the author's TV roots, and a reminder that we’re all in charge of our own stories.
This book isn’t just for those looking to change careers—it’s for anyone craving fulfillment, purpose, and a little guidance to take that bold next step. If you’ve lost your spark or feel like your current routine no longer aligns with your goals, Start Your Second Act is the nudge you need to trust your gut and go for it.
March 17, 2025
I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of this book and it's one I will definitely recommend to friends, family, and anyone who hopes to make their job feel less like "work."
If you've outgrown your current career and you're ready to pursue the path that lights you up, look no further. Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life is the book you need right now. Shannon has walked the walk, making the shift from TV producer to career transition and business coach. Her conversational and positive voice will encourage you to follow your passion in a practical way. Brimming with wisdom and actionable advice, this book isn't just an inspirational guide but an easy-to-follow roadmap for anyone looking to pivot toward personal fulfillment in a new career.
Though it's geared toward those looking to make a career shift, I think it would make an excellent gift for students and recent graduates as Shannon offers great advice about volunteering in a field before entering it, finding a mentor, and an accountability partner and so much more.
If you've outgrown your current career and you're ready to pursue the path that lights you up, look no further. Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life is the book you need right now. Shannon has walked the walk, making the shift from TV producer to career transition and business coach. Her conversational and positive voice will encourage you to follow your passion in a practical way. Brimming with wisdom and actionable advice, this book isn't just an inspirational guide but an easy-to-follow roadmap for anyone looking to pivot toward personal fulfillment in a new career.
Though it's geared toward those looking to make a career shift, I think it would make an excellent gift for students and recent graduates as Shannon offers great advice about volunteering in a field before entering it, finding a mentor, and an accountability partner and so much more.
April 8, 2025
Feeling stuck where you are and know there’s something better but not sure how to get it? Look no further than Shannon’s book! I love that she recognizes a second act as a new chapter in your life, and that could include something like writing a book that may or may not lead to a new career. That's where I am in life and I’m so encouraged by her sharing her journey.
My favorite quote in the book: “Your why can make magic happen when you give it the attention it deserves.”
Shannon also offers reflection questions to help you assess yourself individually where you are and where you’re going, and gives you action steps to follow. Her process is laid out in a very easy way to follow which is super helpful as my personality gets stuck in stages 1 and 2 and never gets around to 3. If that’s you too, you’ll be inspired by the chapter on finding accountability!
Great read that I highly recommend!
Kim @kimstewinspired
My favorite quote in the book: “Your why can make magic happen when you give it the attention it deserves.”
Shannon also offers reflection questions to help you assess yourself individually where you are and where you’re going, and gives you action steps to follow. Her process is laid out in a very easy way to follow which is super helpful as my personality gets stuck in stages 1 and 2 and never gets around to 3. If that’s you too, you’ll be inspired by the chapter on finding accountability!
Great read that I highly recommend!
Kim @kimstewinspired
April 21, 2025
A Must-Read for Women Navigating Career Change or Entrepreneurship
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy, and it is an absolute gamechanger for any woman considering a career transition or starting a small business. Shannon's expertise and supportive approach shine through in every chapter, offering not just inspiration but real, actionable strategies to take the next step with confidence.
What I loved most were the action items at the end of each chapter - practical, concrete steps that make it easy to apply the insights to your own journey. Shannon provides a clear roadmap for navigating change, whether you're shifting careers or launching a business, and she does so in a way that feels empowering and achievable.
If you are looking for guidance, clarity, and a step-by-step approach to making your next career move, this book is a must-read!
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy, and it is an absolute gamechanger for any woman considering a career transition or starting a small business. Shannon's expertise and supportive approach shine through in every chapter, offering not just inspiration but real, actionable strategies to take the next step with confidence.
What I loved most were the action items at the end of each chapter - practical, concrete steps that make it easy to apply the insights to your own journey. Shannon provides a clear roadmap for navigating change, whether you're shifting careers or launching a business, and she does so in a way that feels empowering and achievable.
If you are looking for guidance, clarity, and a step-by-step approach to making your next career move, this book is a must-read!
April 28, 2025
Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life is the perfect read if you are considering a career change. The author walks you through her own journey of moving from a career as a television producer to being self-employed and owning a franchise business to becoming a coach for others looking to make career changes.
I enjoyed that the book cheers you on and is conversational as it navigates you through the steps to consider where you'd want to go if you were to change careers. Each chapter ends with questions that will help you reflect on your current circumstances and determine where to go from here - the most valuable part of the book, in my opinion!
I enjoyed that the book cheers you on and is conversational as it navigates you through the steps to consider where you'd want to go if you were to change careers. Each chapter ends with questions that will help you reflect on your current circumstances and determine where to go from here - the most valuable part of the book, in my opinion!
May 20, 2025
For anyone considering a career change but you don’t know what that might be, this book is the perfect one for you. So many times in my life I have wondered if I’m doing what I should be doing, and even though I wasn’t considering a career change when I started reading it, I learned a lot about myself by following along and doing the exercises the writer suggests. It helped me realize that I’m just where I need to be but it also gave me some tips on how I could improve my current mind set and direction I’ve set off into currently. I also got some ideas of how I can enhance my life now by doing some volunteer work so I could feel more fulfilled. I really loved this book and I think you will too. A must read for anyone questioning where they are at with their every day routine.
April 14, 2025
Shannon Russell’s Start Your Second Act is an actionable guide tailor-made for those debating or embarking on a career transition. Whilst understanding common fears and apprehensions, Shannon throws a mirror up on your self-worth, life experience, and transferable skills to motivate anyone to take that leap toward a better, more meaningful career path. One of my favorite discussions in her text is “Would you ask your 20-year-old self for advice?” NO! Yet, I am still here basing my success on my college-chosen trajectory. Start Your Second Act is a one-stop shop for inspiration, motivation, resources, and a step-by-step action plan to realize your next success story.
April 26, 2025
I loved reading Start Your Second Act! Shannon’s stories about her TV producer days pulled me right in — you could feel how much it was her dream job… until it wasn’t anymore. I could relate so much to that moment when something you once loved just doesn’t fit your life anymore.
This is the book I wish I had when I was ready to pivot. Shannon doesn’t just inspire you to make a change — she gives you a thoughtful, practical strategy to plan and actually start your next chapter. Her approach makes the whole idea of a second act feel exciting instead of overwhelming.
If you’re feeling a little restless or wondering what’s next, you’ll find so much encouragement and guidance in this book!
This is the book I wish I had when I was ready to pivot. Shannon doesn’t just inspire you to make a change — she gives you a thoughtful, practical strategy to plan and actually start your next chapter. Her approach makes the whole idea of a second act feel exciting instead of overwhelming.
If you’re feeling a little restless or wondering what’s next, you’ll find so much encouragement and guidance in this book!
May 1, 2025
Shannon Russell’s Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers is a must read for women who desire to transition from their first career to the one they were born to live!!
She vulnerably shares the pivotal moment that defined her decision to leave her lucrative & highly successful job as Television Producer in search of her second act in order to be present for her kids.
In this memoir, Russell shares lessons learned, the importance of creating goal lists, why saying YES to opportunities will guide you along your journey and how your WHY will lead you to your second act! If you are ready to say “YES” and pivot to a second career, then this book will provide you with a roadmap!
She vulnerably shares the pivotal moment that defined her decision to leave her lucrative & highly successful job as Television Producer in search of her second act in order to be present for her kids.
In this memoir, Russell shares lessons learned, the importance of creating goal lists, why saying YES to opportunities will guide you along your journey and how your WHY will lead you to your second act! If you are ready to say “YES” and pivot to a second career, then this book will provide you with a roadmap!
May 6, 2025
“Second Act Success” is like having a wise, encouraging friend walk beside you as you navigate the thrilling (and sometimes terrifying) path of reinvention. Shannon Russell blends inspiring, relatable stories with practical, data-driven guidance to help women confidently leap into their second careers. Her warm tone makes you feel seen, while her strategic insights give you the clarity and tools to move forward. If you’ve ever thought, ‘Is this all there is?’ or ‘Could I really start over?’—this book is your resounding yes, you can. A must-read for any woman ready to thrive in her next chapter."
— Heike Yates, Midlife Fitness Expert & Author of Pursue Your Spark.
— Heike Yates, Midlife Fitness Expert & Author of Pursue Your Spark.
April 18, 2025
Stuck in a career that no longer serves you?
Start Your Second Act is a straightforward, step-by-step guide to creating a career and life you truly love!
Shannon blends practical & tactical strategies with the mindset shifts needed to break free from the golden handcuffs that keep so many professionals stuck.
The reflections at the end of each chapter help readers get the momentum going so that you can not only learn how to pivot careers, but put what you're learning to work!
If you're ready for your second act, this book is your shortcut to a career you love!
Start Your Second Act is a straightforward, step-by-step guide to creating a career and life you truly love!
Shannon blends practical & tactical strategies with the mindset shifts needed to break free from the golden handcuffs that keep so many professionals stuck.
The reflections at the end of each chapter help readers get the momentum going so that you can not only learn how to pivot careers, but put what you're learning to work!
If you're ready for your second act, this book is your shortcut to a career you love!
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May 9, 2025The book I wish I’d had years ago!
Reading this felt like having a deep, honest conversation with a lifelong friend. Shannon Russell shares her journey from “dream job” to “dream life” with such clarity and warmth, all while offering genuinely practical advice for anyone looking to pivot their career or start a new chapter.
If I could go back in time, I’d hand this book to my younger self at so many turning points. But at least future me will have it close at hand!
Highly recommend for anyone stuck on the fence, struggling with imposter syndrome, or feeling afraid to take that first step.
Reading this felt like having a deep, honest conversation with a lifelong friend. Shannon Russell shares her journey from “dream job” to “dream life” with such clarity and warmth, all while offering genuinely practical advice for anyone looking to pivot their career or start a new chapter.
If I could go back in time, I’d hand this book to my younger self at so many turning points. But at least future me will have it close at hand!
Highly recommend for anyone stuck on the fence, struggling with imposter syndrome, or feeling afraid to take that first step.
May 21, 2025
A Fresh Take On Redefining Your Career Path and Navigating Your Life’s Journey
This isn’t your traditional career transition book, but an incredibly unique and fun approach to navigating your life’s path. Shannon accounts her time working in the television business with relatable stories for anyone in various stages of their own career. Her approach to breaking your life into acts where one begins and the ones to follow are the best to come, makes a career transition less of a challenge but a rewarding journey!
This isn’t your traditional career transition book, but an incredibly unique and fun approach to navigating your life’s path. Shannon accounts her time working in the television business with relatable stories for anyone in various stages of their own career. Her approach to breaking your life into acts where one begins and the ones to follow are the best to come, makes a career transition less of a challenge but a rewarding journey!
May 7, 2025
The Nudge Every Midlife Mama Needs. As a busy mom trying to figure out what’s next in my career, Start Your Second Act was exactly the encouragement I needed. Shannon Russell breaks things down in such a relatable, no-pressure way. Her step-by-step strategy made me feel like change is actually possible—even in the middle of family life and responsibilities. Inspiring, practical, and full of heart. Highly recommend for any woman ready to make a meaningful shift!
May 8, 2025
Shannon is absolutely brilliant—her advice for starting your second act is practical and straightforward combined with the wisdom she's gained in her own professional life. Highly recommend for those aspiring entrepreneurs who need a trusted guide on their way!
May 14, 2025
This is an incredible book and Shannon shares personal stories, practical tips and expert advice for anyone dreaming of something bigger than their current job or career. Reading this book feels like listening to a trusted friend guiding you along the entire way. Five stars!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews