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What happens when life forces you to slow down?

In this powerful episode of the Second Act Success Podcast, Shannon Russell sits down with Patricia Sasser, independent school leader and incoming Head of School, to talk about taking a mid-career sabbatical, also known as a “mini retirement,” after experiencing profound personal loss.

After years of serving students, families, and school communities while navigating grief and burnout, Patricia made the courageous decision to pause her career and prioritize healing, self-care, and reflection. What followed was a transformative journey of grief, personal growth, career clarity, and ultimately, a bold new leadership opportunity.

In this episode, Patricia shares:

• Why she decided to step away from her demanding career in education
• How grief and burnout impacted her physically and emotionally
• What a purposeful career pause really looks like
• How mini retirements and mid-career sabbaticals can create space for healing and reinvention
• The importance of boundaries, joy, therapy, and self-care during life transitions
• Why women need permission to pause without guilt
• How taking time off led her to a brand-new leadership role and exciting second act

If you’ve been feeling burned out, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or questioning your next chapter, this conversation will remind you that sometimes stepping away is exactly what allows you to move forward.

Patricia’s story is proof that pressing pause does not mean giving up. Sometimes it’s the beginning of your next great chapter.

🔗 Get the full show notes here!

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