How to Leave Teaching

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Aug 2026

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This is the What's Next Teacher podcast. Listen in as I interview former educators about how they made the jump out of education and what they do now. You’ll learn how they landed their next job and what they want teachers who are interested in leaving the classroom to know. For coaching, resume help, interview prep, and other the services I offer to help teachers transition out of the classroom including my 21 Day Career Transition Challenge course, check out http://whatsnextteacher.com/

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29 recent

August 14, 202616 min

If you're afraid to leave teaching, maybe you need to get angry

If you desperately want to leave teaching—but feel guilty, selfish, or ashamed for even considering it—you may need to get angry. Teachers are given responsibility for problems they didn’t create, denied the resources needed to solve them, and then blamed when personal sacrifice isn’t enough. When they finally reach their breaking point, their desire to leave is treated as proof that they never cared enough. That isn’t a personal failure. It’s a trap. In this episode of the Teacher Recovery Series, I explain how political underfunding, teacher scapegoating, culture-war outrage, and the expectation that teachers should “do it for the kids” keep educators exhausted, compliant, and afraid to walk away. I draw on my experience as a K–12 teacher, college professor, Department of Education researcher, U.S. Senate legislative aide, and staffer at the White House Office of Management and Budget to examine why: • School scarcity is the predictable result of political choices • Exhausted teachers have less power to organize or demand change • Structural failures are repackaged as failures of resilience or classroom management • Teachers are expected to compensate for poverty and institutional neglect through personal sacrifice • A heavily feminized profession is told that love should replace boundaries, authority, and fair compensation • Teachers are condemned as selfish the moment they stop sacrificing Your burnout does not mean you failed your students. Wanting to leave does not mean you never cared. Your anger may be the thing that finally helps you see the situation clearly—and gives you permission to save yourself. Confused about what's next? Take the quiz! https://quiz.goldendelicious.ai/ Explore careers beyond the classroom and learn more at https://goldendelicious.ai Subscribe for honest conversations about leaving teaching, recovering from toxic school culture, and building a career and life that actually work for you. #LeavingTeaching #TeacherBurnout #TeacherGuilt #TeacherRecovery #TeacherMentalHealth

July 10, 202613 min

They Took Control of Your Identity to Use it Against You

Teachers aren't just burned out — they're trained to give until there's nothing left, and called "good" for it. In this episode, I break down identity capture: the mechanism that turns your best traits — self-sacrifice, niceness, compliance, perfectionism — into free labor.I taught for 9 years — 4 in a Title I high school, 5 at a public university — and I left both feeling used, betrayed, and honestly, a little abused. This episode is about why that happens, not just that it happens.We get into:→ Why "good teacher" traits are the same traits patriarchy demands of women generally — and why that's not a coincidence→ The "remember your why" script, and how it functions as a leash, not a pep talk→ What it actually costs to build your whole identity on a job that can end without warning→ The reflection question I want you to sit with this weekIf you've ever asked yourself "am I a punching bag, or a person" — this one's for you.🍎 More at goldendelicious.ai — building the app for teachers navigating what's next.

July 30, 202457 min

From Teaching to Leadership: Why Helping Professionals Make Great Leaders

On this week's episode I talk to Mike Kaufman, MSW, PhD, Author of Doing Good & Doing Well . Mike challenges the traditional idea that top leadership roles are best filled by individuals with business degrees. Instead, he advocates for the unique perspectives and skills that helping professionals—such as educators, social workers, and community organizers—bring to leadership positions, particularly in non-profit and service-oriented sectors. We discuss: The Value of Helping Professionals in Leadership: Mike Kaufman discusses how his background in social work has equipped him with essential skills for leadership roles in service-based organizations. Transferable Skills: Insight into specific skills from helping professions, such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving, that are highly transferable to leadership positions. Showcasing Skills and Experiences: Tips on how educators and other helping professionals can effectively highlight their skills and experiences on resumes and during interviews. Addressing Misconceptions: Exploring common biases that hiring managers may have about candidates from helping professions and strategies to overcome these misconceptions. Transitioning to Leadership Roles: Practical advice for teachers and educators looking to move into leadership roles, focusing on networking and professional development. Translating Classroom Experience: How educators can translate their classroom experience into valuable leadership qualities that service organizations seek. Stakeholder Management: Utilizing expertise in managing diverse stakeholders to demonstrate leadership capabilities. Professional Development: The importance of continuous learning and professional development for educators transitioning out of the classroom. Qualities of Leadership Candidates: Identifying the key traits that service-based organizations look for in leadership candidates and how educators can showcase these qualities. Resources and Links: Mike Kaufman's book: Doing Good & Doing Well Mike's website Connect with Mike on LinkedIn Mike on TikTok If you're an educator or helping professional considering a transition into a leadership role, tune in to this insightful conversation for practical tips and encouragement. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others who might benefit from this discussion! Connect directly with employers who want to hire former teachers with Goldendelicious https://www.goldendelicious.ai Free networking guide for transitioning teachers: https://whatsnextteacher.com/networkingguide/ Done-for-you teacher transition resumes (download and personalize!): https://whatsnextteacher.com/life-after-teaching/ Visit the website: https://www.whatsnextteacher.com Get coaching: https://whatsnextteacher.com/career-coaching-for-teachers/ Should I leave the classroom: free quiz https://www.whatsnextteacher.com/quiz

July 13, 202453 min

Staying Active in Education After Leaving Teaching

Today I talk to Dr. Jordan B. Smith! We talk about: How to stay connected to teaching after leaving the classroom Things to think about before you retire Understanding your benefits How he gets his consulting gigs His process for writing and publishing education books Jordan B. Smith Jr. is a dedicated educator and advocate who has significantly impacted the lives of students through his work as a mathematics teacher, public speaker, and educational consultant. He has served the San Jacinto Unified School District for over 19 years, including roles at San Jacinto High School and Mountain View Alternative Schools, where he specialized in helping students overcome their fear of mathematics and achieve academic success. With advanced degrees in Secondary Education and Educational Leadership, Dr. Smith has also been an active member and chairperson of visiting committees for the Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC). He has presented at numerous educational conferences and conducted field testing for emerging educational technology. In addition to his teaching career, he founded Annapolis Creed LLC and is a best-selling author. Dr. Smith was named Amazon Future Engineer Teacher of the Year in 2023 and AFE Teacher Ambassador for 2024, and he retired in June 2024 after nearly two decades of service. https://books.teachleadandinspire.com/welcome/ Connect directly with employers who want to hire former teachers with Goldendelicious https://www.goldendelicious.ai Free networking guide for transitioning teachers: https://whatsnextteacher.com/networkingguide/ Done-for-you teacher transition resumes (download and personalize!): https://whatsnextteacher.com/life-after-teaching/ Visit the website: https://www.whatsnextteacher.com Get coaching: https://whatsnextteacher.com/career-coaching-for-teachers/ Should I leave the classroom: free quiz https://www.whatsnextteacher.com/quiz #teachersofIG #teachersoftiktok #teacherhacks #teachersofinsta #teacherstruggles #teacherproblems #teacherjobs #teachermisery #teacherlife #teachertired #teacherjobs #teachertransition #teacherhacks #teacherstruggles #formerteacher #teachersofthegram #teachersofinstagram #iteach #iteachtoo

June 10, 202435 min

Combatting teacher burnout with Shannon Hazel

This week I talk to veteran teacher Shannon Hazel , author of the new book New Teacher Confidential: What They Didn’t Tell You About Being a Teacher . We talk all things teacher burnout including steps to sustain you if you’ve given all you’ve got in the tank. Shannon Hazel is a recently-retired public school teacher and the author of the upcoming book New Teacher Confidential: What They Didn’t Tell You About Being a Teacher . Over her 25-year career, she was a K-8 teacher, special education specialist and instructional coach for teachers. During that time, she was actively involved in the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario and mentored many new teachers. In 2023, Shannon was recognized for her leadership and advocacy work for students by the Council for Exceptional Children. She is the founder of teacherEDU.ca, an online community for teachers to learn, connect, collaborate, and grow their capacity as educators. Shannon is the mother of two young adults, a dog parent and a longtime fan of the Kansas City Chiefs. Connect directly with employers who want to hire former teachers with Goldendelicious https://www.goldendelicious.ai Free networking guide for transitioning teachers: https://whatsnextteacher.com/networkingguide/ Done-for-you teacher transition resumes (download and personalize!): https://whatsnextteacher.com/life-after-teaching/ Visit the website: https://www.whatsnextteacher.com Get coaching: https://whatsnextteacher.com/career-coaching-for-teachers/ Should I leave the classroom: free quiz https://www.whatsnextteacher.com/quiz

May 30, 20241 hr 22 min

Do I need certifications and trainings to leave teaching?

Today we're talking all things trainings, certifications, upskilling, and reskilling with Tai Nehisi of Organizely , an A.I.- supported digital marketplace for today's workforce supporting upskilling + reskilling for all adult learners. Connect directly with employers who want to hire former teachers with Goldendelicious https://www.goldendelicious.ai Free networking guide for transitioning teachers: https://whatsnextteacher.com/networkingguide/ Done-for-you teacher transition resumes (download and personalize!): https://whatsnextteacher.com/life-after-teaching/ Visit the website: https://www.whatsnextteacher.com Get coaching: https://whatsnextteacher.com/career-coaching-for-teachers/ Should I leave the classroom: free quiz https://www.whatsnextteacher.com/quiz

May 12, 202419 min

Staying Motivated in Your Job Search

Has silence 🦗🦗 or a slew of rejections got you feeling less-than-motivated? This quickie episode is for you. I talk about: Tracking progress and celebrating wins Treating the job hunt as data collection Separating feelings from action Using rejection as a sign of taking action Reconsidering metrics for evaluating if your succeeding in your job search Gaining perspective through community Managing expectations in the job market Overcoming fear and taking risks This episode is sponsored by Goldendelicious, the job platform directly connecting teachers with employers who want to hire them. https://www.goldendelicious.ai/

April 4, 202437 min

Julie on the Educator Forever Podcast! From Teaching to Data Science

This week I was on the Educator Forever podcast . Please check out the Educator Forever network to discover how to apply your teaching skills in careers outside of the classroom but still in the education space. _____________________ Julie Packett is a former K-12 teacher who navigated the journey from the classroom to a flourishing career in data science. Recognizing the hurdles educators face when transitioning out of teaching, Julie was inspired to pave a smoother path for others by leveraging her expertise in data science. She is the visionary behind Goldendelicious, an innovative platform designed to connect teachers directly with employers eager to harness the unique skill sets of former educators. Through Goldendelicious Julie seeks to empower teachers exploring new career horizons, bridging the gap between traditional education and diverse professional opportunities. We talked about her career journey and the hurdles she had to overcome transitioning out of teaching. We also discuss what she passes on to teachers who want to enter the field of data science. Topics Discussed: Dealing with imposter syndrome Staying connected to teaching after leaving the education world How trying new jobs increases confidence Resources: Golden Delicious : Sign up for the waitlist to be the first to use the platform and secure your next job. Golden Delicious Instagram Grab Julie’s free networking guide for transitioning teachers Join the Educator Forever Network! Take Lily's FREE quiz to nail down your next best career step in education.

March 13, 202424 min

My Top 3 Free Tools to Hack Your Teacher Transition

Spring is in the air, and while many of us used to count down to those coveted school breaks, there’s something refreshing about finding balance and rejuvenation all year round. In today’s episode, we dive into my top three free online resources that can radically simplify and illuminate the path for educators looking for a career change. Resource #1: O*Net Online What it offers : The O*Net Interest Profiler and Work Importance Locator, among others, to help you explore careers that match your interests and values. Why it’s awesome : O*Net is a comprehensive database detailing a myriad of occupations, offering insights into the tasks, skills, and technologies involved in each. Find it at : ONet Online and the Interest Profiler at My Next Move Resource #2: Lightcast Resume Optimizer What it offers : A skills-based solution that optimizes your resume for the job you’re targeting, providing insights on in-demand skills. Why it’s awesome : This tool helps you translate your teaching experience into the language of your desired field, ensuring your resume speaks directly to what employers are looking for. Find it at : Lightcast.io Resume Optimizer and Skill My Resume Resource #3: LinkedIn Learning What it offers : Courses on a vast range of topics, from technical skills like Python to softer skills like digital marketing. Why it’s awesome : With a free month available to LinkedIn users, it’s a great way to upskill in areas relevant to your new career path. Find it at : LinkedIn Learning and the course Transition from Teaching to Your New Career Opportunity How to use these resources strategically : Begin with O*Net to discover roles that align with your skills and values. Tailor your resume with Lightcast’s Resume Optimizer, making sure it resonates with your job applications. Upskill with LinkedIn Learning to fill any skill gaps and make your resume even more attractive to potential employers. Closing Thoughts : Don’t let the vast sea of online resources overwhelm you as a teacher in transition. Today, we’ve spotlighted three tools that are not only free but specifically designed to support you as you leave the teaching profession. Remember, it’s about making informed, strategic decisions that align with your career aspirations. There are alternative career options for teachers and lots of hiring managers love hiring former teachers. Stay Connected : Quitting teaching? Loved today’s episode? Subscribe and leave us a review!

February 27, 202433 min

Why You Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Leaving Teaching

In this episode, I talk about GUILT, a major factor keeping teachers stuck in teaching long after they've wanted to change careers. I also talk about guilt and: Protecting Your Wellbeing: Prioritizing personal health and well-being over staying in a profession out of obligation. Challenges in the Current Education System: A look at the systemic issues within education, including the empowerment of parents, ethical dilemmas, and lack of boundaries that contribute to teacher burnout. Safety Concerns in Schools: Addressing the increased anxiety around school safety, including the impact of school shootings on the decision to leave teaching. The Sunk Cost Fallacy: Exploration of the sunk cost fallacy in the context of education and why it's okay to pivot into something new, despite time and resources invested. The Misconception of a Teacher’s Duty: Debunking the notion that it's a teacher's sole responsibility to 'save' every student and highlighting student resilience. Financial Considerations: Discussing the right to seek financial stability and growth outside of teaching, challenging the perception that desiring better pay is selfish. Blurred Boundaries in Education: Examining the erosion of work-life boundaries in teaching and how it contributes to the decision to leave the profession. Connect directly with employers who want to hire former teachers with Goldendelicious https://www.goldendelicious.ai Free networking guide for transitioning teachers: https://whatsnextteacher.com/networkingguide/ Done-for-you teacher transition resumes (download and personalize!): https://whatsnextteacher.com/life-after-teaching/ Visit the website: https://www.whatsnextteacher.com Get coaching: https://whatsnextteacher.com/career-coaching-for-teachers/ Should I leave the classroom: free quiz https://www.whatsnextteacher.com/quiz