Episodes

  • Designing a Life Full of Flexibility and Connection after a Career Break with Laura Blagys

    Designing a Life Full of Flexibility and Connection after a Career Break with Laura Blagys
    Nov 20 2025
    In this conversation, Laura shares her honest and inspiring journey from corporate marketing to building a thriving fractional business that gives her the freedom to live and work from anywhere.After 15+ years in full-time marketing roles, Laura hit pause and set off on a five-month “Eat, Pray, Love”-style adventure around Europe. What started as a soul-searching sabbatical became the catalyst for a complete career and lifestyle redesign.Back in Sydney, the idea of returning to a traditional role no longer felt right. Through reflection, courage, and a few key conversations, Laura transitioned into life as a fractional Head of Marketing working part-time with multiple clients, aligning work with joy, and designing a life full of flexibility, purpose, and connection.We dive into:What prompted Laura to take her five-month sabbatical across EuropeThe personal and professional shifts that unfolded during her breakHow she navigated the uncertainty of returning home and job hunting post-sabbaticalThe turning point that inspired her to start her own businessWhat it really means to work as a fractional Head of MarketingLessons in confidence, courage, and creating a life you truly want to liveOther 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 coach 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: Laura is a seasoned marketing leader turned fractional Head of Marketing with over 15 years’ experience building strategy, process, and campaigns for startups and scaling teams.After a transformative five-month sabbatical across Europe, she traded the corporate grind for a career that offers true freedom helping growing businesses solve big marketing challenges while living life on her own terms.When she’s not leading strategy sessions or supporting clients with marketing, Laura can be found sipping coffee in new cities, dancing at family weddings, or soaking up the Connecticut sunshine with her loved ones.👉 Connect with Laura on LinkedInWith 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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    38 mins
  • From Career Break to Global Career Transition with Izy Remedios

    From Career Break to Global Career Transition with Izy Remedios
    Nov 13 2025
    In this conversation, Izy shares her transformative sabbatical experience traveling through Latin America. She discusses her motivations for taking a break from work, the challenges she faced, and the personal growth she achieved during her journey. Izy emphasizes the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone, setting intentions for travel, and maintaining connections with people met along the way. She reflects on how the experience has shaped her identity and outlook on life, encouraging others to embrace the opportunity for exploration and self-discovery.We dive into:The importance of setting intentions for a sabbaticalHow experiencing different cultures and meeting diverse people can shift perspectivesHow traveling alone can lead to significant personal growth and new connectionsWhy staying longer in each location would have made the trip less hecticThe power of social media being a powerful tool for staying connected with friends made while traveling.How to integrate lessons from the sabbatical into daily lifeOther 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 ⁠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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    36 mins
  • Career Breaks & Fatherhood: How Stepping Back Fuels Growth with Sean Macmannis

    Career Breaks & Fatherhood: How Stepping Back Fuels Growth with Sean Macmannis
    Nov 6 2025

    In this episode, Sean Macmannis shares his transformative sabbatical journey, detailing the decision to take a break from his tech career to embrace fatherhood and explore new living environments. He discusses the challenges of traveling with a toddler, the unique experience of renovating an Airstream, and the lessons learned about work-life balance and personal growth. Sean reflects on how the sabbatical shaped his identity and future career choices, emphasising the importance of taking time for oneself and being deliberate about life decisions.

    We dive into:

    • How taking a sabbatical helped the transition into fatherhood and navigating a new normal

    • How traveling with a toddler requires careful planning and flexibility

    • Why staying longer in each location would have made the trip less hectic

    • How a sabbatical helps you reconnect with nature and family.

    • Post-sabbatical life and the challenges that come with it

    • The importance of prioritising values and must-haves during life transitions

    • How taking a break can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's identity.

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

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

    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 mins
  • Tiny Detour on Career Breaks, Breaking the Blueprint & Currency Hacking

    Tiny Detour on Career Breaks, Breaking the Blueprint & Currency Hacking
    Oct 23 2025
    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 mins
  • From Career Break to Business Growth: Mandy Millan’s Brand-Building Lessons

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

    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 mins
  • Motherhood and Identity: Career Break Lessons with Lauren Yates

    Motherhood and Identity: Career Break Lessons with Lauren Yates
    Oct 9 2025
    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 mins
  • Career Break Growth: Finding Gratitude & Clarity with Jay Epps

    Career Break Growth: Finding Gratitude & Clarity with Jay Epps
    Oct 2 2025
    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 mins