Episode 19: Special Edition with Keyla Kirton-Assistant Dean to HR Professional to ERP CEO-Part I

🔥 Episode SummaryIn this powerful and personal episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, Alex sits down with a very special guest—his wife and business partner, Keyla Kirton. With a unique journey spanning journalism, higher education, K-12 leadership, and HR consulting, Keyla offers an inside look at what it truly takes to pivot your career with confidence.From producing with 60 Minutes to leading HR functions in large school districts, Keyla breaks down the mindset shifts, transferable skills, and resilience required to transition into new opportunities—especially for educators feeling stuck or uncertain about their next move.This episode is both a masterclass and a motivation boost for teachers ready to reclaim control of their careers.1. Your Skills Are More Transferable Than You ThinkTeachers already possess high-value skills like organization, communication, adaptability, and problem-solving—core competencies for consulting, project management, and leadership roles.2. Transition Starts Internally Before It Happens ExternallyBefore making a career move, you must first release old expectations and redefine your identity. Growth requires closure.3. You May Need to “Rewire Your Brain”Transitioning into new industries—especially tech—requires learning how to think differently, not just learning new tools.4. Failure Is Part of the ProcessEven high achievers struggle when entering new spaces. Growth comes with discomfort, humility, and persistence.5. Consulting = Teaching AdultsAt its core, consulting is about listening, guiding, and translating information—skills teachers already use daily.6. Burnout Isn’t Just External—It’s Also InternalKeyla shares how mindset, ownership, and perceived lack of options contribute heavily to burnout in education.7. You Have More Control Than You ThinkTeachers don’t have to feel stuck. With intentional planning, certifications, and strategic use of time (like summers), new career paths are possible.Keyla’s early start in media, including producing for 60 MinutesThe pivotal conversation that shifted her from journalism to HRLeading HR operations for over 14,000 employees in a major school districtThe humbling experience of starting over in tech and failing forwardBreaking down what consulting actually is (and why teachers are a natural fit)Her mission to help teachers transition into consulting careersTeachers considering a career transitionEducators feeling burned out or stuckProfessionals curious about consulting or HR techAnyone navigating identity shifts in their careerAspiring leaders looking to expand their impact“You were a rockstar in one space—but in a new space, you have to give yourself grace to grow into it.”💡 Key Takeaways🚀 Standout Moments🎯 Who This Episode Is For🧠 Key Quote