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 Corps
Unexpected visa complications and how to manage such challenges
A career transition from IT to Financial Planning
The financial and emotional implications of a sabbatical
Travel insurance and how important it is if travel is an element of your break.
How creating space for spontaneity can lead to unexpected adventures.
Chapters
Introduction 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 off
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
Guest 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=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/