The UX Teacher Prep Podcast

In today’s episode, I share the 5 things I wish I knew before transitioning out of the classroom.  Knowing these 5 things would’ve eased my anxiety and helped me mentally and logistically prepare for my corporate role in tech. If you're considering leaving the classroom, or in the middle of this life-changing leap, remember you've got an ally. I’m recounting my experience and giving you all the tips and advice I wish I ha...

Are you a teacher interested in a creative career in UX (User Experience) Design? Let's unwrap the essentials of a portfolio that stands out, not just as a showcase, but as a narrative of your professional journey.

In this episode, I offer tips for building your first UX portfolio and reflect on my early portfolio as a transitioning teacher to my current portfolio as a Senior UX Researcher. I share my lessons learned...

Don't forget to enter the Teacher Appreciation Giveaway on Instagram!

Every day, teachers across the world face the daunting task of nurturing young minds, often at the expense of their own well-being. This Teacher Appreciation Week, I'm tipping my hat to these unsung heroes and shedding light on the challenges they face within the teaching profession. From ethical dilemmas like grade inflation to the stifling ef...

Ever considered the leap from the classroom to a professional role in the creative industry? In this episode, I delve into this transition with the help of Sarah Janosz, a Creative Recruiter with a wealth of experience in creative placements. Sarah shares her career evolution, providing you with an authentic perspective on the nuances of such a shift.  Our discussion goes beyond the conventional job-seeking advice. Navigating the l...

Transitioning to a new career can be challenging, especially when it involves moving from a long-established role in teaching to the dynamic and fast-growing  field of technology. Having the backing of your loved ones can make a significant difference. In this podcast episode, I delve into a firsthand account of my experience unpacking the emotional and practical elements that come into play when embarking on a career pivot with yo...

Teachers are known for their unwavering dedication to their students, often at the expense of their own health and well-being. In this episode, Jite Lark, a former educator turned administrator and women’s fitness and life transformation coach, shares her transformative journey and how it's shaped her mission to help teachers nurture their health to achieve professional fulfillment. Jite's inspiring story is a reminder of...

Embarking on a new career path can feel overwhelming, but I can help. Crafting a career narrative is not just about explaining the desire to leave teaching but also about conveying the excitement and commitment to contributing to the success of a potential employer. In today's episode, I explain how to share stories from your teaching experience that highlight transferable skills and passion for your next role. I also provide ...

Is it time for educators to reinvent their careers by stepping into the ed tech realm, or should they take their talents to a whole new industry? I'm Zee Arnold, a teacher of 15 years and now a UX researcher, stirring up the conversation around this pivotal career crossroads. With a pulse on the unique skills teachers bring to the table, I dissect the powerful combination of advocacy and empathy that educators possess, and how...

Ever felt like a fraud in your own classroom, or doubted your ability to take on a new career path? Trust me, you're not alone. On our latest journey together, we confront the all-too-common imposter syndrome that plagues many educators as they consider new professional horizons. In today's episode, I draw from the depths of my early teaching days to shed light on these daunting feelings of self-doubt and discuss how they...

Have you ever felt trapped in a career that drains your spirit, wondering if the grass is truly greener on the other side? Today, I bring you a brave story of transformation that might just tip the scales for you. In this episode, I sit down with Sharon Ng, a former high school science teacher who made the leap to a User Researcher after some serious challenges with her mental and physical health brought on by her work environment....

In today's episode, I interview the remarkable Tisha Woods, whose own metamorphosis from Child Development Educator to a Design Program Manager is nothing short of inspirational. Tisha illuminates the path she carved out for herself, transforming her classroom skills into tech talents in the bustling tech scene of the San Francisco Bay area. Her insights on work-life balance and the art of boundary-setting are golden nuggets f...

In today's episode, I reveal the hidden power of networking for educators aiming to pivot their careers into the exciting realm of user experience and product design. Through the UX Teacher Prep Podcast, you'll uncover the truth behind a robust professional network—not just as a collection of contacts, but as a pivotal force for career advancement. You'll learn that a resume might land on a desk, but it's your r...

UX Bootcamps have become a hot topic in the world of tech, offering a blend of structure, speed, and practical skills designed to fast-track careers. In this episode, I discuss the various advantages and drawbacks of these programs, particularly for teachers looking to change careers. I also provide an overview of a course I took called "Fundamentals of UX Writing" offered by UX Content Collective. I share my personal exp...

Have you ever felt the weariness of a path once walked with vigor? In this episode, I unveil the raw and moving saga of a career that once was my identity. Embrace the narrative of my quest to reimagine my future, as we journey through triumphs and trials, from teaching accolades to the brink of burnout. My story is not just one of personal transformation, but a beacon for all who've felt the sting of a profession's unrel...

Ever wondered how a teacher's expertise could unlock the potential of tech products? I'm here to enlighten you! As a former educator now thriving in the realm of UX (User Experience) Research, I share my journey and insights on how teaching skills are not only transferable but also vital in understanding and enhancing user experiences, especially within an EdTech company. From collaborating with product teams to diving in...

Ever find yourself at the crossroads of passion and practicality? I've navigated those tricky paths, transitioning from teaching to user experience, and in this heart-to-heart, I impart my top strategies for keeping your wellness in check and avoid further burnout. Balancing a demanding teaching career with the hunt for new opportunities can seem daunting, but I break down how intentional scheduling and leaning on your support...

Welcome to The UX Teacher Prep Podcast! This is your guide to transition from teaching to UX (User Experience) Design. ~~

📱Text Me: I love to chat with listeners! Send me a text message with your questions or comments.

Resources:

• Grab your free UX transferable skills cheat sheet to get started on your transition journey to UX.
• Ready to find balance and unleash your creativity? Explore uxteacherprep.com to see how we can suppor...