The Teacher Career Coach Podcast

It’s time to start something new and fresh, to put yourself out on the market, and to try to attract something that’s a better fit for you. It can be both exciting and terrifying. In this episode of the Teacher Career Coach Podcast, I’m going to share five ways that your job search is similar to dating. Free Quiz: ⁠What career outside of the classroom is right for you? ⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: ⁠The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a short-but-sweet episode is all about helping you navigate interviews outside of the classroom and in new positions. I answer some of the biggest questions you may have about preparing for an interview in an industry you are unfamiliar with. Free Quiz: ⁠What career outside of the classroom is right for you? ⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: ⁠The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people have asked me to share my personal story about why I left teaching and what I've done since. In this episode, I'll share why I left, what it's like to be an educational consultant and instructional designer, and the most important lessons I've learned along the way! Free Quiz: ⁠What career outside of the classroom is right for you? ⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: ⁠The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Teacher Career Coach Podcast, Daphne Gomez breaks down what teachers need to understand about transitioning into non-teaching roles—especially EdTech—during an increasingly competitive job market. Drawing from firsthand experience supporting teachers at an EdTech job fair and from years in hiring and recruiting, Daphne explains why competition feels higher than ever and what actually makes candidates stand out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Daphne discusses the pros and cons of remote work, including flexibility, commute, and work-life balance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode I want to talk all about how fear can control our lives and hold us back from being who we were meant to be. How fear stops us from living our best lives or growing or becoming the better, stronger versions of ourselves. I'll share my own story and identify three types of fears that many teachers thinking of leaving the classroom often struggle with and a few strategies you can use to battle these fears. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us today as we chat with Claire, who is now a Program Manager. We learn about her duties in her role and how she got to where she is now. Hope you enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I interview the amazing Sharon McMahon. Sharon is a former high school government and law teacher who earned a reputation as ‘America’s Government Teacher’. During the historic 2020 election proceedings for her efforts to educate the general public on political misinformation. Because Sharon is known for answering rapid-fire questions on her viral Instagram, I'm asking her the top questions teachers have from this community about the government, history, and what to do if you're being accused of teaching critical race theory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angela Watson is one of the most highly regarded productivity and mindset specialists for educators. In addition to being an author and a motivational speaker, she's also the host of the very popular Truth For Teachers Podcast. Whether you’re ultimately looking to leave the profession or stay in the classroom, this episode offers tangible tips to help you adjust your priorities, systematize your processes, and better manage your workload. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LinkedIn is a social networking tool used by professionals all over the world, and acts like a digital resume. Many teachers are headed to the platform for the first time ever. In this episode, I'll share best practices about using LinkedIn! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us today as we chat with Charles Fournier who is now teaching in higher education. We learn about what it is like, how it is different from K-12 and we discuss the ways education is changing in our current world. Hope you enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover practical productivity strategies tailored for exhausted educators— from naming stressors and reframing self-talk to creating a step-by-step plan for leaving the classroom. Learn how to manage time wisely, prioritize tasks like networking and resume building, and make steady progress toward a fulfilling new career, even on empty. Perfect for teachers ready to reclaim their energy and future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Teacher Career Coach Podcast, I’m addressing one of the biggest (and most common) questions I’m receiving from teachers right now, “Should I leave teaching after this year?” Now, this is always a common question, but with the ongoing pandemic leading to new levels of burnout and frustration, so many teachers are struggling. I know this year has been especially tough for so many reasons. That’s why, in this episode, I get candid about the several factors that go into making such a big decision and my best advice for taking action toward your desired outcome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Fulbright is a former teacher who is now a trade desk consultant. Join us today for discussion around her entry into sales to where she is now! Hope you enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, I’m going over five of the biggest myths about career clarity that may be holding you back from your career transition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Daphne shares the key findings from the 2025 Job Market Survey for transitioning teachers, featuring insights from 717 former educators. Learn what the data reveals about application numbers, salary trends, job security, and the most common career paths teachers are taking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, I’m going over five steps to take even if you are not sure you are leaving teaching. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I'm going to discuss the consequences around teachers breaking contract, weighing the pros and cons of leaving your teaching contract mid-year, and how to take the next steps. I'll also share some suggestions about resigning gracefully as well.  Free Quiz: ⁠What career outside of the classroom is right for you? ⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: ⁠The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gwen Karaba is an Instructional Designer contractor for Microsoft through Oxygen Learning, a consulting firm specializing in sales enablement and workplace learning programs. Based in Dallas TX, Gwen collaborates with clients to design impactful learning experiences that drive organizational growth and employee development. With a background in education and instructional design, she brings a passion for creating engaging and effective learning solutions. Join us today for discussion on contract work and instructional design! Find Gwen on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Teacher Career Coach Podcast, Daphne answers questions sent in directly from this audience including how to stand out in a competitive market and where to begin if you're just starting to evaluate a career change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A deeply personal episode, Daphne explains why she walked away 16 months ago, and what her vision is for the future of Teacher Career Coach now that she's back. Trigger warning: this episode talks about birth injuries and children with complex medical histories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a dynamic background in startups and digital marketing education, Jaclyn Mullen brings deep expertise in B2B and B2C marketing. She is currently serving as Head of Marketing at TheLoops AI. Jaclyn also spent four years teaching Digital Marketing. Join us today to discuss all things marketing, education and more! Find Jaclyn on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we speak with Dr. Graeme Mitchell to learn about a program he runs at his school called the Institute for Global Solutions (IGS). It’s a public school initiative designed to empower students to tackle global challenges through innovative & actionable solutions. He also had the privilege of giving a TEDx Talk about their approach. We discuss the “hope gap” in education and how educators can inspire optimism and real-world problem-solving in students. Hope you enjoy! Find Graeme on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monica White is the founder of Elevate Academy and co-creator of Spark Brilliance for Educators with Jackie Insinger. Monica was formerly a principal and teacher. Jackie Insinger is a leadership strategist, author and has a background in psychology. Today we learn about their new book, the charter network they’ve developed to support the trades and more! Hope you enjoy! Find Monica on Linkedin. Find Jackie on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natalie Williams taught for 13 years before pivoting careers. She’s now an Account Management Team Lead. In her role, she is an advocate for people, thrives on empowering individuals and loves building teams. Join us today as we discuss her journey from education to account management, her career growth from sales to where she is now, and how to make an impact after leaving the traditional classroom. Hope you enjoy! Find Natalie on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we chat with Lindsay DeHartchuck . She is the Senior Director at KIPP Foundation. Prior to moving here, she taught special education and had experience in higher ed at a graduate school.  Join us today as we discuss supporting diverse learners and staying in education through a different lens. Hope you enjoy! Find Lindsay on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we chat with Meghan Waldron. Dr. Meghan Waldron is currently serving as an academic advisor and instructor at a University. Prior to moving to Higher Ed, Waldron taught English and Journalism in the public and private sectors for over two decades. Join us today as we discuss starting a tutoring company and working in higher education! Find Meghan on Linkedin and her tutoring business here. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we chat with Jay Lockwood. He was a high school science teacher before he got into sales. He’s now an Account Executive for an Ed Tech company and enjoys working with schools in this way. We discuss his path from a BDR to an AE and all of the skills involved with sales, promotions and more! Find Jay on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katie Eppley taught for seven years, and after experiencing severe anxiety, she decided to leave the classroom midyear. She successfully transitioned to a nanny after leaving teaching and also had her first child during that time. She loved being a mom, but struggled with postpartum. That lead her to become passionate about pediatric sleep. She got certified as a pediatric sleep consultant and newborn sleep specialist. She started her own business called Cuddlebug Sleep Consulting. Today we discuss the breaking points  of teaching, the challenges of opening up a business and the importance of a support network.  Find Katie on Linkedin.  Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carly Clusserath was a middle and high school science teacher before leaving. She landed an edtech SDR role. However, a few months into the role she started to realize that sales, and really the for-profit, corporate environment, wasn't for her. She missed education and left that role to pursue education related non-profit roles.  Now she owns and runs Carly Clusserath Learning. Join us as we discuss the first job out of the classroom and how she found her passion with running a business that has roots in education. Find Carly on Linkedin. Free Quiz:⁠⁠ What career outside of the classroom is right for you?⁠⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers:⁠⁠ The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa Rowan taught elementary school before she decided it was time to make a change. She started upskilling with Aspireship and listening to the TCC podcasts to help her navigate her exit from education. She landed a role as a BDR and has now become a marketer for the same company! Join us as we discuss the first role out of the classroom and how it can really be a standing ground for growth forward. Find Alyssa on ⁠Linkedin⁠. Free Quiz:⁠ What career outside of the classroom is right for you?⁠ Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers:⁠ The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jill Kelly was classroom teacher for 12 years. In August of 2022, she took a sales role as an Account Development Manager for an Ed Tech company. In January 2023, she left to become a Project Coordinator for a Gov Tech company. She's been there since and loves this role! It taps into all of her favorite parts about teaching - being organized, training others, breaking things down and explaining it to others, and leading a project through from beginning to end. Join us to learn more! Find Jill on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you? Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Farrow was former educator who has now dedicated her career to helping educators, parents, and students navigate a safe and successful path into a future of AI integrated education. Her mission is to inspire educators to see AI not as a replacement but as an opportunity to create a future where teachers and technology work hand-in-hand, and harmonize technology with pedagogy. Through Teacher To Techie, she provides PD workshops designed to bridge the gap between traditional teaching practices and modern tech advancements, empowering teachers to adapt confidently to this evolving landscape. She was recently chosen to speak at the FETC (Future of Education Technology Conference)! Find Lauren here: LinkedInhttps://TeacherToTechie.org & https://teachertotechie.org/homeschool-consultant/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Denae Biscoe spent 12 years as a 2nd-3rd grade school teacher, where she honed her skills in communication, problem-solving, and leadership. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, she decided to step outside of education and pursue a career in sales. She began as an entry-level Sales Development Representative and quickly found her footing. After just one year, she was promoted to Business Consultant, where she leveraged her teaching experience to excel in her new role. Her efforts paid off with a record-breaking year, leading to another promotion to Senior Business Consultant. Today we discuss her growth and how her company reacted to seeing what teachers could bring to an organization. Find Denae on Linkedin.Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacki Lancaster is a former 8th grade math teacher and Higher Education professional turned Talent & People Experience Partner. She holds a Masters of Education with a focus on Administration and Supervision and is passionate about recruiting. Today we discuss the candidate and hiring manager experience, onboarding, the employee experience, company culture, and all things People Ops.  Find Jacki on Linkedin.Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tamara McLemore, PMP, PMI-ACP, is an experienced project manager, having spent over 20 years in varying industries with her certification, including tech, aviation, and the US government, just to name a few. Now, as a speaker and coach, she teaches women—including several teachers—how to successfully study for and pass the PMP Certification exam. Join us to learn all about becoming a Project Manager!Find Tamara on Linkedin.Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jalonna Kearney-Rodgers is a Learning Experience Designer at a major educational publisher. She taught math in grades 6-12 throughout her 10 years of service and when she decided to leave, the TCC resources and activities were her go-to for creating her new resume and learning about all the possibilities on the other side. Join us to learn all about being an LXD!Find Jalonna on Linkedin.Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Karen Foley is the CEO of JPA Chicago, a non-profit, which provides mental and emotional health resources in classrooms, homes, and communities. We discuss COVID-19's effects, social media's impact, and the mental health staff shortage, along with tips for educators and teachers. Find Karen on Linkedin and https://jpachicago.org/Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lesley De Paz has 20 years of experience in the public school system and community development, providing her with a deep understanding of the strengths that both youth and adults possess. Throughout her teaching career, she has used her skills to build connections with others, helping them reach their full potential. Now she is a consultant, where she assists nonprofit leaders in creating sustainable organizations. Join us as we discuss her journey!Find Lesley on Linkedin, www.nonprofitorchard.com and www.storyorchardbooks.org!Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we speak with CEO and Founder of Aspireship and Orchard, Corey Kossack. We discuss how Orchard is helping students pick the right career path, what careers are in demand and how schools can utilize Orchard for career exploration. If you are interested in getting Orchard into your school, email Corey at [email protected] Corey on Linkedin. Explore Orchard.Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren Pasquini was an elementary school teacher and felt like there was and is a lot of shame and judgement cast down on educators for leaving the profession. She shares with us that it has been the best decision she has ever made for herself and her mental health. Join us as we sit down to discuss burnout, mental health and how doing what is best for you is not something to feel guilty about. Lauren is now an account executive with a major education publishing company.Find Lauren on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yanira Sesniak was a high school English teacher for 5 years before she made her transition into tech. She knew it was time to reflect on her work life balance and her career goals. Join us as we learn about what steps she took to get into the tech world and how knowing how to communicate your strengths is key when interviewing in today's world.Find Yanira on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Shamblin was a former middle and high school teacher, and now works as a financial advisor. In this episode, we discuss how he made the switch from the classroom to finance without going back to school. Join us to learn about his experience in education, his passion for finance and to hear how you can make the switch too!Find Chris on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Josh Prieur was a former Vice Principal, and now works for Prodigy Education as the Director of Education Enablement. In this episode, we discuss how he made the switch from the classroom to the EdTech industry, how to make game-based learning impactful in classrooms—as well as fun, and more! Join us to learn more about Josh, Prodigy, and his EdTech journey!Find Josh on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lana Penley was a former Principal, and now stands at the forefront of Social and Emotional Learning. She is an author and CEO of Unlocking SEL. We discuss her time in administration and her new book Unlocking SEL: The 5 Keys to Transform Your School Through Social and Emotional Learning. Find Lana on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sally Evans was a veteran teacher with 19 years in the classroom. It wasn't until COVID 19 when she finally had some space and time to reflect on her work life balance and her career goals. Join us as we learn about what steps she took to get into customer success. Find Sally on Linkedin. Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blake left the classroom to work in the tax field as an administrative assistant. She had no knowledge of taxes but her work ethic and professionalism contributed to very quick growth. We recorded this episode before she got a promotion! Blake is now a Learning and Development Coordinator at her tax office! Join us to learn how you can get your foot in the door and how it can open up a world of opportunities.Find Blake on LinkedIn.Free Quiz: What career outside of the classroom is right for you?Explore the course that has helped thousands of teachers successfully transition out of the classroom and into new careers: The Teacher Career Coach Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices