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.
