Teachers Transition Podcast

In this episode of Teachers Transitions Podcast, host Alex Kirton sits down with veteran music educator, clinician, and leader Kristin Vogt for a rich conversation about purpose, passion, and growth in education. Kristin shares her unexpected journey from oboe performance and music theory into elementary music education, revealing how she found her true calling in the classroom.With more than 23 years of teaching experience, Kristin offers powerful insight into the importance of quality elementary music instruction, the impact of the Kodály approach, and why “only the best is good enough for a child.” She also reflects on leadership, professional development, presenting at conferences, and what it means to keep growing even when the next door has not opened yet.This episode is filled with wisdom for teachers who are considering whether to transition in, up, or out of education. Kristin reminds educators that sometimes you may not need a new career—you may simply need a new environment, a new challenge, or a renewed connection to your “why.”This is an inspiring conversation for music educators, classroom teachers, aspiring leaders, and anyone who believes that what teachers do truly matters.

In this powerful and entertaining episode of Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alex Kirton sits down with rising educator and content creator Keldric Holmes—a third-grade teacher whose humor, honesty, and authenticity have captivated audiences across TikTok, Instagram, and beyond.Known for sharing the real, unfiltered moments of classroom life, Keldric opens up about his unexpected journey into education—from pursuing dance to finding purpose in the classroom. He speaks candidly about the challenges of teaching, including burnout, emotional demands, and the many unseen roles educators take on every day.Together, Alex and Keldric dive into meaningful conversations around:The realities of being a young male educator in today’s classroomsThe emotional toll and rewards of teachingWhy representation and mentorship matter for studentsBalancing teaching with a growing social media platformTaking ownership of your career path and embracing changeKeldric also shares hilarious, real-life classroom moments that will have every teacher nodding in agreement—and laughing out loud.This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about making an impact in the lives of children. It’s a reminder that teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling, a journey, and sometimes, a stepping stone to something even greater.Connect with Keldric Holmes:Follow Keldric on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube @KeldricHolmes for daily laughs and real classroom moments.About the Host:Alex Kirton is a veteran educator of 27 years, a husband, father of two, and the host of Teachers Transition Podcast, where he empowers educators to transition in, up, and through every stage of their careers.

🎙 Teachers Transition Podcast – Season 2 From Classroom to Copywriter: Meredith Cooley’s 17-Year Journey to FreedomIn this powerful episode of Teachers Transition Podcast, Alex Kirton sits down with Meredith Cooley, a former classroom teacher of 17 years who made the courageous leap from education into entrepreneurship.Meredith shares her honest, behind-the-scenes story of quietly building a freelance copywriting business while still teaching — and how she eventually transitioned into full-time work serving education companies.If you’ve ever felt exhausted, invisible, or unsure whether your skills translate beyond the classroom, this episode is for you.The emotional and physical toll of teaching — especially during early motherhoodWhy the “exit ramp” feeling can start years before you act on itHow Meredith replaced half her salary before making the leapThe power of leveraging classroom experience instead of abandoning itWhy education companies value former teachersWhat copywriting for EdTech actually looks likeHow to build confidence while starting something newThe mindset shifts teachers must make before transitioningWhy no one will give you permission — and why that mattersThe surprising challenges of working for yourselfOne small step teachers can take this month to explore what’s nextTeachers trust teachers.Your classroom experience is not a liability — it’s a competitive advantage.Permission isn’t coming.If you feel the nudge toward something different, that feeling deserves your attention.You don’t have to burn the bridge.Meredith transitioned strategically — building income slowly, going part-time, and securing retainer clients before leaving fully.Mindset matters.Letting go of guilt, identity attachment, and the “sunk cost” mentality is often harder than learning new skills.There is life beyond the classroom.And sometimes, it begins with simply being curious.Meredith now works as a freelance copywriter serving education and literacy companies. Her projects include:Blog posts and thought leadership contentEbooks and long-form guidesEmail campaignsSocial media contentCustomer success stories and case studiesShe also created a program designed specifically for teachers called:A step-by-step pathway helping educators:Build foundational copywriting skillsDevelop a portfolioLeverage classroom expertiseConfidently pitch education companiesMeredith is hosting a free masterclass for teachers interested in exploring copywriting.Join her email list here:pageandpurpose.kit.com/turnthepage📍 LinkedIn: Meredith Rice Cooley(Meredit’s preferred platform — her DMs are open.)If you’re listening and feeling the nudge…It doesn’t mean you failed.It doesn’t mean you’re abandoning your calling.It may simply mean you’re growing.There is space beyond the classroom.And you are allowed to explore it.If you’d like, I can also create:A short episode description (150 words) for Apple/Spotify3–5 promotional social postsA powerful email blast to your listOr 5 viral clip captions for TikTok/ReelsYou’re building something important here. Let’s keep amplifying it.🔑 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:💡 Key Takeaways🚀 Meredith’s Current Work✍️ From Classroom to Copywriter🎓 Free Training Opportunity🔗 Connect with Meredith🎧 Final Encouragement

In this powerful and personal episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alexander Kirton sits down with a very special guest—his wife, Keyla Kirton, an experienced HR leader turned consultant and CEO.Keyla shares her unconventional journey from journalism and producing for 60 Minutes, to higher education leadership, to overseeing HR operations in large school systems, and ultimately transitioning into the consulting and tech space.This episode offers teachers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how careers evolve—and how to confidently pivot when your path no longer aligns with your purpose.If you're a teacher feeling stuck, burned out, or simply curious about what's next, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your identity, embrace your transferable skills, and design a career on your own terms.

🔥 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

In this conversation, Jeffrey Bradbury discusses the essential role of teachers, likening their responsibilities to that of a conductor. He emphasizes that the primary job of a teacher is to inspire students, regardless of their age or setting, to unite towards a common vision and goal.takeawaysYou have one job as a teacher.A teacher's role is similar to that of a conductor.Inspiration is key in education.Teachers must unite students for a common goal.The setting does not change the teacher's responsibility.Inspiration can come from various age groups.A teacher faces challenges similar to a conductor.The tools of a teacher are not physical instruments.Effective teaching requires a vision.The ultimate goal is to inspire collaboration.

In this episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alex Kirton speaks with Jeff Patterson, CEO of Gaggle, about the evolution of educational technology and its impact on student safety. They discuss the importance of balancing technology with human judgment, the need for mental health support in schools, and the challenges of navigating privacy concerns. Jeff shares success stories from Gaggle, trends in student safety post-COVID, and offers advice for educators looking to transition into the EdTech space. The conversation highlights the critical role of technology in safeguarding students while emphasizing the need for human oversight and support.TakeawaysGaggle started as a solution to provide email accounts for students safely.The mission of Gaggle has evolved to focus on student safety and mental health.Balancing technology with human judgment is crucial in identifying risks.Real-time monitoring can save lives by identifying students in crisis.Privacy concerns must be balanced with the need for student safety.The COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health challenges among students.Educators transitioning to EdTech should consider roles in sales or customer success.The EdTech landscape is currently facing challenges due to budget cuts and layoffs.Success in EdTech requires a growth mindset and adaptability.Gaggle's services are essential for schools to ensure student safety.

In this episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, Alexander Kirton speaks with social worker Gordon Gooding about the challenges educators face, including burnout, mental health, and the impact of technology on students. They discuss the importance of connection, deliberate intentions in mental health, and the role of leadership in supporting teachers. Gordon shares his personal journey from social work to private practice and offers insights on coping mechanisms, the significance of community, and the need for resources in mental health support.To reach Gordon GoodingGooding Wellness website:  https://www.goodingwellness.comGooding Wellness anxiety Series:   https://www.goodingwellness.com/anxiety-courseGooding Wellness Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/GoodingWellnessPCFinding a therapist blog:  https://www.goodingwellness.com/post/finding-the-right-therapist-for-you-a-guideFinding a therapist for your child blog:  https://www.goodingwellness.com/post/navigating-the-search-for-a-child-therapist-on-long-island

SummaryIn this episode of Teachers Transition, host Alexander Kirton speaks with Kathy Kuddes, a respected figure in music education, about her journey from teacher to administrator, the impact of the Kodály philosophy, and the importance of folk songs in music education. They discuss the challenges and rewards of teacher training, the design of the Robbie Lenore Robinson Fine Arts Center, and the role of music in language learning. Kathy shares insights on revitalizing teaching practices and the significance of community support in education, as well as her reflections on retirement and future plans.TakeawaysKathy Kuddes emphasizes the importance of community in music education.The Kodály philosophy revolutionizes how music is taught.Folk songs serve as a foundational tool for music learning.Teacher training can revitalize educators' approaches to teaching.Transitioning from teaching to administration requires a supportive community.The design of performance spaces impacts student experiences.Music can bridge language barriers for students.Curriculum development should reflect high expectations in arts education.The Plano Kodály Teacher Training Program has a national impact.Retirement can be a new beginning for educators.Kathy's website: www.kuddesmusic.com

In this episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, Dr. Deborah Wortham shares her remarkable journey from a determined student in Chicago to a transformative leader in education. With heartfelt stories and powerful insights, Dr. Wortham discusses the importance of belief, resilience, and intentional leadership. Her experiences as a superintendent and educator highlight the impact of creating systems of belief and fostering a growth mindset. Her STORYDr. Deborah L. Wortham is an educator, best-selling co-author, elder, professor, and nationally recognized lecture circuit presenter. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Wortham is prepared spiritually and educationally. She is the former Superintendent of the School District of the City of York in York, Pennsylvania, and the Steelton-Highspire School District in Steelton, Pennsylvania. She was the first locally elected Superintendent of the Roosevelt Union Free School District in eleven years. During her tenure, the District moved from "State Takeover" to "Good Standing." Dr. Wortham served as the First African-American Female Superintendent of the East Ramapo Central School District in Spring Valley, New York, where all 12 K-8 schools reached "Good Standing." Still fond of the Roosevelt Union Free School District; currently, Dr. Wortham serves as the Superintendent in charge of "Resetting Roosevelt!" Her credentials include a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; a Master's Degree in Reading from Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland; and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin.Dr. Wortham has been married for 50 years to Rev. Chester H. Wortham, Jr. She and her husband work together in ministry locally and abroad. They have led marriage and leadership development seminars at various conferences. Dr. Wortham and her husband have two children, Dr. Shelley and Min. Chester, III; one son-in-law, Sheldon; one daughter-in-law, Marquita; one granddaughter, Jordynn Lynn; and four grandsons, Chester, IV, Sheldon, Jr., Zachary, and Ethan.Dr. Wortham was licensed and certified as a Minister by the Board of Examiners, and in 2011 she was ordained as an Elder at the Higher Dimensions Christian Center in Baltimore, MD. "To God Be the Glory, for the Great things He has Done!" If you would like to contact Dr. Wortham, you can reach her through her website: www.drdeborahlwortham.com

In this powerful finale of her trilogy on Teachers Transition Podcast, Kendall Askins shares her journey as an educator, mom, and entrepreneur. From starting as a math teacher to becoming a principal, CEO of Stemulating Minds, and director at the Da Vinci Science Center, Kendall reveals how she manages her time, balances multiple roles, and prioritizes what truly matters.Key takeaways:Time Management & Focus: Boundaries are everything—work is for work, family time is sacred, and sleep is non-negotiable.Building a Business with Purpose: Kendall scaled tutoring into a full-fledged company, focusing on her why, quality service, and long-term impact over quick profit.Partnerships for Growth: Strategic collaborations amplify resources without diluting mission. Think puzzle pieces: the right fit creates powerful outcomes.Marketing & Referrals: Word-of-mouth and authentic, value-driven content outperform paid ads. Providing free, quality guidance builds trust and long-term reach.Authenticity & Consistency: Kendall emphasizes being impeccable with your word—sharing lessons from experience and research while staying true to your mission.Final wisdom: Know your why, stay true to your mission, and start where you are. Big goals are possible when you prioritize, plan, and take deliberate steps.

In this heartfelt episode of Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alexander Kirton welcomes his longtime friend, colleague, and mentor Rick Magnani. With over 26 years of experience teaching music in Baldwin, NY—and an even longer career full of diverse jobs—Rick shares lessons learned about resilience, parent communication, and thriving in education despite challenges.From his early days at Berklee College of Music and Stony Brook University to his transition into teaching at age 36, Rick’s journey underscores the power of versatility, grit, and lifelong learning. Now retired from the classroom but still performing music weekly, Rick reflects on building strong programs, mentoring younger teachers, and cultivating parent partnerships that support students’ success.Alexander and Rick also discuss:The importance of collaboration between teachers and colleagues.Strategies for navigating unsupportive administrators.Building a “parent base” that champions your program.How music education fosters discipline, resilience, and academic success in students.Lessons on saving, investing, and planning for the future as an educator.This episode is packed with practical wisdom and warm memories—from concerts at Meadow Elementary School to seeing former students succeed on Broadway or in medicine. Rick’s insights remind teachers that while the work can be demanding, it’s also deeply rewarding—and that strong relationships, adaptability, and perseverance are key to long-term success.

In this inspiring episode, host Alexander Kirton sits down with longtime friend and seasoned educator LaTisha Elliott to explore her remarkable journey from teaching assistant to classroom teacher, school administrator, and ultimately successful entrepreneur.LaTisha shares how a psychology degree and an initial role as a teaching assistant opened unexpected doors in education. Encouraged by mentors and colleagues, she earned her master’s in education and later an administrative certification, moving from the classroom to leadership roles where she impacted entire schools and communities. She reflects on the challenges of administration—building trust with teachers, earning respect, and maintaining relationships—while offering practical advice for teacher assistants and aspiring leaders.When the pandemic prompted a career reevaluation, LaTisha embraced a bold new chapter, leveraging her transferable skills in relationship-building, data analysis, and communication to thrive as a loan officer and real estate entrepreneur. Now licensed in multiple states, she educates clients on financial empowerment and homeownership while balancing the demands of self-employment.This episode is a must-listen for teachers considering a transition, showcasing how classroom skills translate to business success and how mentorship, resilience, and faith can guide life-changing career moves.

In this episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alex Kirton sits down with Andy Rettke to explore his unique journey from being a high school teacher and wrestling coach in Plano, Texas, to running his own successful construction company, Sonova Construction.Andy shares how his experiences as a teacher, coach, and athlete shaped his resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to manage people—skills that proved highly transferable to his career in construction. He reflects on the challenges of teaching during COVID, the personal sacrifices he made for his students, and the difficult decision to leave education to honor his commitments to his family and well-being.Listeners will hear practical advice on transitioning careers, including how to leverage transferable skills, start small with side hustles, and gradually move toward a new professional path. Andy also provides insights for teachers on identifying trustworthy contractors, managing construction projects, and ensuring value in home improvement endeavors.Throughout the conversation, Andy emphasizes the importance of self-care, support networks, and finding joy in both personal and professional life. He also encourages teachers to recognize that leaving the classroom doesn’t mean leaving education behind—there are many ways to positively impact kids and communities outside the traditional school system.This episode is full of candid stories, actionable insights, and encouragement for teachers navigating transitions, whether moving up within education or pursuing entirely new career paths.Resources & Contact:Sonova Construction:www.sonovaconstruction.comConnect with Andy for advice on teaching, coaching, or construction projects.

In this continuation of Cherise Irons’ inspiring journey, she dives into how her personal health challenges became a catalyst for advocacy and entrepreneurship. Cherise candidly shares how frequent medical appointments and breakdowns in communication with doctors led her to discover a deeper calling: bridging the gap between patients and medical professionals. A key turning point came when a physician recognized her natural ability to advocate and communicate effectively, encouraging her to share her experiences more broadly.Cherise explains how her initial frustration with the medical system evolved into meaningful advocacy work. She became an official advocate with the American Migraine Foundation in 2021, building on earlier recognition for her role in a 2019 documentary. Through this work, she realized her personal struggles were not unique, and that many patients faced similar communication barriers. This experience became the foundation for her consulting business, Irons Consulting Group, LLC, which helps doctors and patients connect in a collaborative, empathetic way.A central theme of this episode is the transferable skills from education to healthcare. Cherise reflects on how her background as a teacher and administrator—listening, advocating, and creating safe spaces for students—translated seamlessly into helping patients be heard and understood in medical settings. Her story underscores the value of recognizing and leveraging skills gained in one field to make an impact in another.Cherise also shares profound lessons about perseverance, heartwork, and healing. Drawing on personal experiences with trauma, burnout, and spiritual guidance, she emphasizes the importance of introspection, therapy, and surrounding oneself with people who provide both support and honest feedback. She encourages listeners to persevere through challenges, stay aligned with their purpose, and approach transitions with faith, passion, and resilience.For those navigating career changes or contemplating entrepreneurship, Cherise provides practical advice: transitioning from the classroom to building a business requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to nurture the “baby” of your venture. Her story is a testament to courage, spiritual grounding, and the transformative power of purpose-driven work.Listeners can connect with Cherise via LinkedIn at Cherise C. Irons, Instagram @Ms.IronsSharpens, Facebook Irons Consulting Group, LLC, or her website ironsconsultinggroupllc.com for consultations and collaboration opportunities.

In this inspiring episode of Teachers Transition Podcast, Alex Kirton sits down with Cherise Irons to explore her unconventional journey through education, leadership, and life transitions. Cherise candidly shares how she entered teaching unexpectedly after a career in broadcast journalism was interrupted by motherhood. What began as a practical decision quickly evolved into a deep passion for education, eventually leading her into administrative leadership roles.Cherise details her path from classroom teacher to department chair and assistant principal, highlighting how her leadership was recognized organically by peers and mentors rather than through planned ambition. She emphasizes the importance of being present, taking initiative, and demonstrating consistent leadership in everyday teaching, noting that opportunities often seek you out when you show readiness and competence.Her move to Maryland introduced new challenges and opportunities, including participation in the prestigious Governor’s Promising Principals Academy, which significantly shaped her leadership style and confidence. However, Cherise also shares the difficult realities of navigating bias, conflict, and workplace adversity. A particularly poignant story recounts her experience confronting inappropriate comments from a colleague and the stress that ultimately contributed to a severe health crisis.Through it all, Cherise reflects on the critical role of integrity, standing by one’s values, and the resilience required to navigate unexpected career and life transitions. Her story is a testament to courage, self-advocacy, and the power of mentorship and community in guiding teachers through professional and personal growth.This episode is a must-listen for educators facing career transitions, aspiring leaders, or anyone navigating the challenging intersection of personal health, professional integrity, and systemic obstacles in education.

Kendal Askins—former middle school principal, Director of the DaVinci Science program for the Allentown School District, and CEO of Stemulating Minds—shares her experiences and leadership lessons. These lessons have guided her success both in the public school system and as the leader of a thriving tutoring company. Her insights offer valuable guidance for current and aspiring leaders.

In this inspiring episode of the Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alex Kirton sits down with Erin Mote, CEO of Innovate EDU, to explore her incredible journey through education, technology, and leadership. Erin shares her story, from starting her career in higher education at Arizona State University, to working over a decade in national security and technology, to ultimately co-founding Brooklyn Lab Charter Schools and Innovate EDU.Erin reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her career, emphasizing that life and careers are rarely linear. She talks about the importance of understanding your “currency”—what drives and motivates you personally—and why impact, not just financial gain or status, guided her decisions. She shares candid insights about embracing failure, taking risks, and the power of vulnerability in leadership.Listeners will learn Erin’s strategies for navigating major career transitions, including the importance of mentorship, building strong professional networks, and advocating for oneself. She highlights how educators possess transferable skills highly valued outside the classroom and provides practical advice for teachers looking to transition into other sectors, emphasizing networking, resume framing, and preparing references effectively.Erin also discusses her approach to scaling educational impact: instead of expanding Brooklyn Lab to dozens of schools, she focused on scaling innovative practices through Innovate EDU, fostering alliances, mentorships, and programs that influence schools nationwide. She underscores the importance of representation and supporting women in tech and education, sharing initiatives like fellowships, emerging leaders programs, and communities of practice.This episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiration, and encouragement for educators, leaders, and anyone navigating career transitions. Erin’s story is a testament to following your passion, leveraging your skills, and creating meaningful impact—while remembering to take risks, embrace failure, and reach out to others for guidance along the way.Key Takeaways:Life and careers are rarely linear; embrace pivots and failures as opportunities to learn.Understand your “currency”—what truly motivates you—and align your career decisions with it.Build strong networks and seek mentors for guidance, support, and advocacy.Educators possess highly transferable skills; learn to translate them for other sectors.Scaling impact doesn’t always mean expanding physically—focus on spreading effective practices.Leadership requires vulnerability, authenticity, and creating pathways for the next generation.

Join us a candid conversation with Oslyn Grant. Her journey includes being a middle school teacher, administrator, homeschool mom, microschool founder and founder of international non-profit.

Kendal Askins is a talented teacher who started her career teaching math and S.T.E.A.M. at the middle school/junior high level. She transitioned to becoming a Principal. She currently works for the DaVinci Science Center as the Director of the Allentown School District Partner while running her tutoring company and traveling the country as a featured speaker. Join us as she share her journey.

Join me as I have a candid conversation with my music colleague, clinican and podcast creator as she shares her journey to becoming an Administrator.

In this episode I continue our conversation with Samantha Stanley. She navigates back to the classroom while keeping her ed-tech sales role. She shares her best practices and insights. She is enjoying the best of both worlds!

In this episode of Teachers Transition Podcast, host Alex Kirton sits down with Samantha, a seasoned educator with 25 years of experience in elementary education, to discuss her journey transitioning from the classroom into the EdTech industry.Samantha shares candidly about her experiences teaching across multiple grade levels, from pre-K to upper elementary, and the challenges she faced balancing her career with raising three children. She details the pivotal moment that led her to leave the classroom: the need for more flexibility as a parent while still staying connected to education.Listeners will gain insight into the transition process, including:How to navigate leaving a teaching position professionally, including timing and communication with HR and administration.Tips for translating classroom experience into transferable skills for non-teaching roles, such as public speaking, coaching, and training.Strategies for preparing a resume, interviewing, and overcoming self-doubt when stepping into a completely new career path.The importance of networking and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to explore EdTech and remote opportunities.Lessons learned about handling rejection, building confidence, and finding fulfillment in roles outside of traditional teaching.Samantha also reflects on the flexibility, collaboration, and growth opportunities she’s found in her EdTech career—benefits that were not possible in her classroom role—and encourages teachers considering a transition to embrace the uncertainty and trust themselves.This episode is a must-listen for educators at any stage of their career who are contemplating a transition, whether it’s moving into leadership, administration, EdTech, or an entirely new industry. Samantha’s story is a testament to the value of transferable skills, perseverance, and taking courageous steps toward a career that aligns with both professional and personal life goals.