146: When to Quit Your 9-5

Thinking of taking your side hustle full time?
Shannon Russell shares how to know when to quit your 9-5, the fears that come with it, financial checkpoints, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate this major life and career transition.
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Wondering when to quit your 9-5 and go all in on your side hustle?
You’re not alone—and it’s normal to wrestle with fear, doubt, and the question, “What will people think?” Shannon Russell gets it. After a successful 16-year run as a TV producer, she made the bold leap to entrepreneurship—not because she had to, but because she wanted to start producing her own life.
In this episode, Shannon gets real honest about the emotional and practical sides of walking away from a long-held career.
You’ll learn:
- How to know when it’s time to quit your 9-5
- Financial milestones to aim for before you leave your day job
- What to expect from the identity shift that often comes with a career change
- How to navigate fear and resistance from friends, family, or even your partner
- Why your second act can be your most fulfilling one yet
If you’re standing on the edge of a big decision, this conversation will give you clarity—and courage.
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Need a little (and sometimes big) push to start and stay focused to grow your side hustle? Dive into my online Masterclass: How To Turn Your Thoughts Into Wanted Things .
What You’ll Hear:
02:06 The Moment of Change
03:40 Signs It’s Time To Take Your Side Hustle Full Time
04:50 Financial Considerations
07:13 Give Yourself A Timeline With Goals
07:42 Building An Effective Exit Strategy
09:23 You Should Be Working The Same Number of Hours
11:01 Mentally And Financially Preparing For The Transition
12:09 You’re Not Depriving Yourself - Your Making A Trade
13:01 Hardest Part of The Transition
14:48 More Fears - What Will They Think?
17:57 First Business Was A Franchise - To Learn About Business
20:54 The Value of Developing Your Support Network
24:20 Success Can Take Longer Than You Think
25:20 The Power of Understanding Your Why
26:20 Common Mistakes When Going Full Time
27:10 Be Selective Where You Get Your Advice
30:19 Advice To More Forward With Confidence
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