Always A Teacher Podcast
What happens when you decide to leave teaching and pursue the next chapter in your career? The Always A Teacher podcast provides teachers with insights and advice for breaking into the EdTech space. Hosted by Matt Gambino, the nation's top trainer of EdTech industry professionals, Always a Teacher features wide-ranging interviews with former teachers and administrators who share their stories about transitioning from the classroom to EdTech, and how they apply their unique skills and passion for students to a business setting.
Always A Teacher Podcast
#029 Susan Casey: Account Executive
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Is your curiosity the key to your next career chapter?
For Susan Casey, the path to the classroom—and eventually out of it—was anything but traditional. Starting as a dedicated PTA volunteer before becoming a credentialed teacher later in life, Susan has always followed her curiosity. Today, she is an Account Executive for Pear Deck Learning, where she continues to impact education on a massive scale. In this episode, Susan shares how staying curious and saying "yes" to professional development opened doors she never knew existed.
- The "Accidental" Educator: Susan shares her unique journey from PTA President and classroom volunteer to a credentialed teacher, proving that it is never too late to step into your calling.
- Curiosity as a Career Strategy: How Susan leveraged her natural curiosity—attending tech conferences and seeking out new certifications—to build a resume that made her undeniable to edtech companies.
- From the Classroom to Employee #24: Susan discusses the leap from a structured school schedule to the chaotic, exciting world of an early-stage startup, and how she helped grow Pear Deck from the ground up.
- Reframing Sales: If the word "sales" makes you cringe, Susan offers a new perspective: it isn't about pushing products; it’s about consulting, problem-solving, and helping districts align their budgets with their goals.
- Look Local Before You Leap: Susan offers vital advice for teachers looking to leave the classroom but stay in education, suggesting that the perfect intermediate step might be waiting at your local County Office or Education Service Center.
