In this special episode of Sabbatical Stories, host Bex Thomas takes the guest seat while "Aunty B" steps in as interviewer!
Bex dives deep into her personal journey through three transformative sabbaticals, reflecting on the invaluable lessons learned, the power of intentionality, and how these experiences inspired her shift from a corporate career to coaching.
Join Aunty B and Bex as they explore themes like defining your purpose, crafting a life of freedom and fulfilment, and navigating pivotal transitions. This episode is filled with insights for anyone curious about using sabbaticals as a tool for personal growth and career reinvention.
● How sabbaticals can be life-changing experiences that help redefine personal and professional goals.
● Why intentionality in planning a sabbatical is crucial for its success.
● How prototyping life changes can help clarify future aspirations.
● Why integration techniques post-sabbatical are essential to retain the lessons learned
● How visualisation and planning can streamline the transition back to work.
● How coaching can simplify the process of transitioning into a new career.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sabbatical Stories
01:49 The Journey of Three Sabbaticals
05:48 Lessons from the First Sabbatical
09:50 Intentionality in the Second Sabbatical 13:58 Prototyping Life Changes
17:49 The Importance of Travel and Reflection 22:10 Integration Techniques Post-Sabbatical 25:52 The Role of Visualization and Planning 29:59 Transitioning to a Career Coach
34:08 Top Tips for Taking a Career Break
Guest bio: Bex is the host of Sabbatical Stories podcast and a career transition coach who guides individuals through pivotal life and career changes.
Specialising in crossroads moments, she helps clients find clarity and direction, empowering them to invest in a future self they can be proud of.
Through personalised coaching sessions and signature programs focused on career transitions and sabbaticals, Bex creates a supportive, nurturing space where clients explore their core values, strengths, and goals.
She goes beyond coaching, helping you redefine success on your own terms and equipping you to implement that vision in your next chapter with confidence and purpose.
Learn more here
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.
💫 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:
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/