Hodgson admits the change was difficult.

“While I was in corporate world, I never did achieve the CEO role I wanted. But, as I near 60 years, I see endless possibilities and no limits to where I can go. I get to help great people to shine, which is very rewarding in every sense.”

He is grateful for the change in his career which affords him a lifestyle on his terms, something he says is in contrast with many older professionals who feel challenged at this age and fear redundancy and what’s next.

The looming threat of AI

Artificial intelligence could displace roughly 15 per cent of workers, or 400 million people, worldwide between 2016 and 2030, according to a McKinsey study, Future of Work and AI Automation released in 2018. Under the fastest scenario modelled, that figure rises to 30 per cent.

The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations reports that between January 1, 2023, and March 22, 2024, 33,925 redundant positions were reported to Services Australia by 554 businesses.

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While Shannon expects AI will start to take some jobs in the travel agent industry, she believes there will always be a market, even if it’s just a small one “that will need the human touch and personalisation that a person provides”.

Personal branding expert Jon Michail said the loss of a job often served as the necessary push for many to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

”It’s important to understand that overnight success is a myth and building a sustainable business, especially one rooted in your passion, takes time,” he said. “Expect a marathon, not a sprint. Go for it and take calculated risks. Life is too short to ponder, what if?”