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  • The Power of Sabbaticals: Ritual & Renewal with Nele Vandersmissen

    The Power of Sabbaticals: Ritual & Renewal with Nele Vandersmissen
    2025/10/30

    In this conversation, Nele shares her transformative journey through sabbaticals, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity, freedom, and sacred time. She discusses how these experiences have shaped her identity and the work she does with her company, Wander. Neela provides valuable insights on integrating lessons from sabbaticals into everyday life and the significance of having a clear vision. She also highlights the importance of community and support in the transformational process, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and growth.

    We dive into:

    • How sabbaticals serve as fertile soil for dreaming and processing life changes

    • Why finding sacred time is essential for maintaining energy and passion in life

    • How freedom is a core value in her life that is prioritised in her life choices

    • Why a clear vision is necessary for effective transformational work

    • How to integrate lessons learned during sabbaticals and why it is vital for long-term change

    • Why spontaneity and new environments are crucial for inspiration and creativity

    • The importance of distinguishing between mundane and sacred time in daily routines

    • How spontaneity and new environments are crucial for inspiration and creativity

    Other episodes you may enjoy:

    • The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick Mazzocco

    • How a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical story

    Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

    Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

    As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.

    Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

    Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

    💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.

    Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

    👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

    With special thanks to:

    Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

    Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

    Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    41 分
  • Tiny Detour on Career Breaks, Breaking the Blueprint & Currency Hacking

    Tiny Detour on Career Breaks, Breaking the Blueprint & Currency Hacking
    2025/10/23
    In this episode Nabil and Zenesta from Tiny Detour share their transformative journey of taking a career break to travel with their daughter. They discuss the catalysts that led to their decision, the planning involved, and the cultural responses they faced. Over two years of travel, they reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges of parenting on the road, and their aspirations for the future, including their YouTube channel that promotes alternative lifestyles and travel experiences.We dive into:How life's unforeseen events can serve as a catalyst for changeWhy financial planning is crucial for a successful career breakHow to successfully travel and take a career break with a child Why cultural perspectives can influence how career breaks are perceivedHow living minimally can lead to a richer life experience.The fact that there are alternatives to traditional career paths that can lead to happiness.Other episodes you may enjoy: How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer AndersonTaking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve DukeGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    43 分
  • From Career Break to Business Growth: Mandy Millan’s Brand-Building Lessons

    From Career Break to Business Growth: Mandy Millan’s Brand-Building Lessons
    2025/10/16

    In this conversation, Mandy shares her transformative sabbatical journey that began 15 years ago when she felt lost in her corporate career. She discusses the importance of taking a break to rediscover oneself, the intentions behind her travels, and how these experiences led her to a fulfilling career in wellbeing and Pilates. Mandy emphasizes the significance of authenticity, courage, and creating space for creativity in both personal and professional life. She offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the necessity of scheduling breaks to maintain balance and health.

    We dive into:

    • ​How a sabbatical can be the turning point for personal growth
    • ​Why courage over comfort is essential for making life changes
    • ​How intentionality in career choices can prevent burnout
    • ​The importance of good human connections throughout your break and on your return
    • ​Why scheduling breaks is crucial for maintaining balance



    Chapters

    00:00 - From corporate career to solopreneur journey

    02:52 - The leap: traveling Asia with no back up

    08:40 - The creative space to launch first wellness business

    11:31 - Building a business while working part time

    16:05 - Removing the mask: lessons in courage and intuition

    20:26 - Scheduling silence: avoiding the noise addiction

    23:42 - Listen, learn, leverage: building your own brand

    29:48 - Mandy’s camper van dream and scheduling breaks

    33:46 - Top tips for a career break: courage, intuition, space


    Other episodes you may enjoy:

    • ​How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer Anderson
    • ​How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time off

    Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

    Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

    As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.

    Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

    Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

    💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.

    Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

    👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

    With special thanks to:

    Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

    Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

    Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    36 分
  • Motherhood and Identity: Career Break Lessons with Lauren Yates

    Motherhood and Identity: Career Break Lessons with Lauren Yates
    2025/10/09
    In this episode, Lauren shares her unique journey of taking a career break that began as maternity leave. She discusses the emotional challenges of leaving family behind, the identity shift that comes with motherhood, and the importance of mentorship in navigating her career decisions. Lauren emphasizes the need for self-kindness and the value of being present during fleeting moments with her child. She also offers practical advice for parents on managing their career breaks and the guilt that often accompanies parenting decisions.We dive into:The emotional impact of leaving family behind as an expatHow becoming a parent often leads to a significant identity shiftThe ways in which maternity leave can be challenging, especially in finding purpose and structureWhy finding joy in a new routine is essential for mental well-beingThe reasons why returning to work after a break is difficultHow mentorship plays a crucial role in career development and decision-makingOther episodes you may enjoy: The truth about career breaks: Research insights from PhD scholar Patrick MazzoccoHow a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical storyGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    39 分
  • Career Break Growth: Finding Gratitude & Clarity with Jay Epps

    Career Break Growth: Finding Gratitude & Clarity with Jay Epps
    2025/10/02
    In this conversation, Jay Epps shares his experiences of taking two significant career breaks, reflecting on the motivations behind them, the activities he engaged in, and the personal growth he experienced. He discusses the importance of disconnecting from work, exploring identity beyond employment, and the lessons learned about gratitude and purpose. Jay emphasises the need to redefine retirement and the value of time, encouraging others to embrace their own sabbaticals without guilt and to celebrate the journey.We dive into:Intentional vs surprise breaks.The importance of gratitude and recognising privileges during a break.How identity is not tied to employment, but why this was such a significant realisation.The need to unlearn societal expectations about productivity during a break.How to take a break without guilt, and instead to celebrate experiences. Other episodes you may enjoy: How life a changing sabbatical helped host Bex transition from corporate to coaching Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve DukeGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    34 分
  • How to use a sabbatical to prototype your future life with Nicky Palmer

    How to use a sabbatical to prototype your future life with Nicky Palmer
    2025/09/25
    In today's episode, Nicky Palmer shares her transformative sabbatical journey, detailing her experiences of moving from the UK to the US, the challenges she faced in finding a new direction in her career, and the personal growth she achieved through travel and self-discovery. Nikki reflects on the importance of embracing change, the impact of the pandemic on her life choices, and the lessons learned about self-worth and motivation. She emphasises the value of shared experiences in relationships and offers practical tips for anyone considering a sabbatical.We dive into:How to use a sabbatical to explore new opportunities and prototype your next chapterWhy the pandemic served as a wake-up call for manyThe benefits of embracing uncertainty and being somewhat unplanned!How travel can help discover what you truly want in life.Why taking a break with your other half can lead to prioritising shared experiences.How to remain motivated when returning from a break and faced with the challenge of the job marketChapters(00:00) Intro (01:30) Overview of Nicky's Sabbatical spending 6 months in the US(08:30) Ego and how it is attached to job and employment (12:30) Finding a passion for travel (18:40) The biggest challenges, staying motivated and finding a job on return (23:05) Realisation that the life wasn't suited to Nicky (25:45) How identify has shifted since the break and continuing with travel and exploration (31:00) Top tips for anyone embarking on a sabbatical Other episodes you may enjoy: How to support others through career breaks and sabbaticals: Tips from Jennifer AndersonTaking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve DukeGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    37 分
  • Financial Planning for a Sabbatical: Taylor’s Peace Corps & Family Career Break Story

    Financial Planning for a Sabbatical: Taylor’s Peace Corps & Family Career Break Story
    2025/09/18
    In this conversation, Taylor shares her transformative journey of taking a sabbatical to join the Peace Corps, detailing the inspiration behind her decision, the planning process, and the cultural experiences she encountered in Kyrgyzstan. She reflects on the challenges faced, the personal growth achieved, and how her sabbatical led to a career shift into financial planning. Taylor emphasises the importance of planning for a sabbatical, including financial considerations and the value of leaving space for unexpected adventures. We dive into:What sparked her interest in joining the Peace Corps How she planned for her break including the preparation and training for joining the Peace CorpsUnexpected visa complications and how to manage such challengesA career transition from IT to Financial PlanningThe financial and emotional implications of a sabbaticalTravel insurance and how important it is if travel is an element of your break. How creating space for spontaneity can lead to unexpected adventures.ChaptersIntroduction and Background (0:00)The Spark of Inspiration (3:00)Planning the Sabbatical (6:00)Peace Corps Experience in Kyrgyzstan (9:00)Challenges and Surprises (12:00)Post-Peace Corps Adventures in Asia (15:00)Career Transition to Financial Planning (18:00)Advice for Planning a Sabbatical (21:00)Financial Planning Tips (38:00)Three Top Tips (45:00)Other episodes you may enjoy: How to take a career break like a pro: Katerina McGee, The Queen of time offHow a career break can prepare you for emigration: Liz Ferguson’s sabbatical storyGet in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching: As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self. Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠Guest bio: Taylor is a certified financial planner at Middleton & Company, and helps other professionals design sabbaticals and purposeful breaks with confidence. She blends the traditional financial wisdom she learned working alongside her father with innovative next-generation planning strategies.When she’s not advising clients, Taylor is hiking, exploring in a Sprinter van with her husband and two young sons, and dreaming up her family’s next big adventure abroad.👉 Plan your dream sabbatical at https://www.towyn.co/With special thanks to: Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine. Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWAWebsite - https://joannacooke.co.ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacookeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    50 分
  • Top tips for sabbaticals & career breaks: Highlights from Season 2

    Top tips for sabbaticals & career breaks: Highlights from Season 2
    2025/08/14

    In this special wrap-up episode, Bex and Aunty B reflect on the most powerful moments from Season 2. Together, they explore expert insights, inspiring personal stories, and the unexpected lessons learned from people who took time out of traditional work to reset, travel, grow, and reconnect.

    Whether you're planning a sabbatical, dreaming of a mid-career break, or wondering how to return to work after time away, this episode brings together the best of what Season 2 offered.

    We dive into:

    • Debunking common myths about career breaks and sabbaticals and what the latest research really says

    • Why identity is a central theme in understanding career breaks.

    • How it's essential to solve for the 'why' behind a sabbatical.

    • Planning and financial preparation for a successful break.

    • How timing plays a significant role in when to take a sabbatical.

    • The fact that many people find life post-break to be better than pre-break.

    • Why expectations of a sabbatical may not always align with reality.

    • How prototyping life allows individuals to experiment with new directions.

    • The fact that courage is needed to embrace change and new paths.

    Timestamps

    Will follow soon!

    Other episodes you may enjoy:

    • How volunteering in Africa can change your perspective with Jackson Lindsay-Egan

    • Taking a career break to change professional direction and find fun again with Steve Duke

    Get in touch: If you are interested in sharing your sabbatical story, we would love to hear from you. Buzz us a DM on Instagram - ⁠@Sabbatical_Stories⁠ or reach out on LinkedIn - ⁠Bex Thomas.⁠

    Career transition, sabbatical and career break coaching:

    As a career transition, sabbatical, and career break coach, I inspire, challenge, and support people like you to create a life that feels deeply aligned with your values, dreams, and authentic self.

    Whether you’re craving a new direction, a chance to pause, or the courage to pursue what really matters, I’m here to guide you toward your own version of success on your terms.

    Together, we’ll break free from societal blueprints, rewrite the rules, and design a future you’re excited to wake up to. Learn more ⁠here⁠

    💫 Ready to make the most of your time away from work? Download my free guide, "5 Ways to Maximise Your Career Break", packed with practical tips and soulful insights to help you pause with purpose and return with clarity.

    Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already on sabbatical, this is your essential companion.

    👉 Grab your free copy ⁠here⁠

    With special thanks to:

    Aunty B at the Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.

    Joanna Cooke, whose soulful blend of smooth vocals we are lucky enough to use throughout the show. Listen and connect with Joanna via your favourite medium:

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EyKy53TsVFLJFZFyYzBZQ?si=HaCSIRCETS2uYB3LBLcrWA

    Website - https://joannacooke.co.uk

    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/joannacooke

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joanna.cooke/

    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/joannacookemusic/
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    26 分