In this episode, we sit down with Kyle as he shares his transformative journey of taking a career break to travel the world.
Kyle opens up about the motivations behind his decision, the challenges he faced during the transition, and the profound insights he gained through travel. From navigating mental health struggles to embracing uncertainty, his story is a testament to the power of stepping away to gain clarity.
Together, we explore:
Why Kyle took a leap and left his career to travel
The role of mental health in his decision and journey
How travel broadened his perspective on life and work
The balance between planning and embracing flexibility
How stepping outside of routine fosters resilience and adaptability
The challenges of returning from a career break and what comes next
Why prioritising mental well-being is key to sustainable success
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Adult Gap Years
02:07 Kyle's Journey to a Career Break
06:02 Planning for the Break
09:58 The Importance of Travel
14:02 Lessons Learned During Travel
17:57 Self-Reflection and Support
19:50 Reevaluating Work and Personal Growth
22:52 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Judgment
25:48 Navigating the Transition to a New Lifestyle
29:00 Realisations from Global Travel
32:14 Pushing Through Challenges
36:12 Top Tips for Taking a Career Break
Guest bio: Kyle is an experienced leader in customer contact centres, operational strategy, and business transformation. With a strong background in financial services, he has led large teams to drive customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and business growth in companies such as ING Australia and NAB. Kyle has worked at the intersection of customer experience and business operations, influencing change at all levels. After taking a well-earned career break, he now focuses on equipping leaders with the skills to thrive in customer-centric environments.
As the Founder of The Frontline Leader, Kyle is dedicated to empowering frontline managers with the tools, strategies, and mindset to lead high-performing teams. His expertise spans:
Contact centre leadership, overseeing large teams in lending, wealth, and hardship support
Business-wide transformation, aligning customer, business, and employee priorities
Strategic decision-making, leveraging data and trends to optimise performance
Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn
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:
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/