In this powerful episode of Sabbatical Stories, Bex sits down with DJ DiDonna, to get an exclusive preview on his upcoming book "The Big Time Off".
DJ is a Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business School and founder of The Sabbatical Project. After founding and successfully exiting a fintech company, DJ experienced burnout. He chose to take an intentional sabbatical, a decision that fundamentally reshaped how he viewed work, ambition and identity.
That experience sparked a deeper inquiry into the role of extended breaks in modern careers. Through The Sabbatical Project, DJ now leads the first research of its kind exploring the impact of sabbaticals on non-academics.
In this conversation, DJ shares his personal journey, the myths and misconceptions surrounding sabbaticals, and why he believes time off is not a luxury but an ancient and essential human ritual.
We dive into:
The concept of intentional time off in sustainable, meaningful careers
Why sabbaticals can trigger powerful identity transformation
The difference between passive rest and active rest
How to identify your unique sabbatical style, take the quiz here
The role of journaling and reflection during a career break
Common myths about sabbaticals and what the research actually shows
Other episodes you may enjoy:
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: DJ DiDonna is a Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business School and the founder of The Sabbatical Project, a pioneering research initiative exploring the impact of extended time away from work on modern professionals. Known as the “King of Sabbaticals,” DJ is passionate about bringing about positive change by commercialising social science research and translating academic insight into practical action.
Get in touch with DJ via LinkedIn
With special thanks to:
Aunty B at The Flaxen, our amazing, talented and patient producer whose expertise helps make this podcast shine.
Nicky Sweetland, our brilliant creative force behind all things social media and visual, whose eye for detail and design brings the podcast to life beyond the mic.
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/
