Episode One: Classroom to Content Creator
Hello and welcome to the first official episode of the “Rave Results” podcast! If you caught my intro, you know the drill: we’re keeping things unscripted and real. I’m here to share my journey, insights, and the deets of my business and educational frameworks—all while connecting with fellow course creators, coaches, and anyone involved in group programs.
So, whether you’re sipping a Diet Coke or tackling your chores, let’s dive into my story—from my early career days to the pivot that transformed my professional life.
The Spark That Ignited My Path
Rewinding about 20 years, my career journey was anything but straight. From customer service to managing photo booths at a UK theme park, I’ve worn many hats. But a significant turning point came when I volunteered at a local primary school to lead a drama after-school club. It was there, working with a selectively mute young girl, that I discovered the profound impact of teaching. Helping her speak her first line in drama club lit a fire in me, pushing me towards a career in education.
From Volunteering to a Teaching Degree
Inspired by my volunteer experience, I decided to pursue teaching formally. I juggled jobs while retaking exams to qualify for a teaching degree, which I started in 2009. My focus during my degree was on children with behavioral needs, a passion driven by my placements and a personal connection I would only understand years later when I was diagnosed with ADHD.
The Blogging Beginnings
Fast forward to 2014, amidst my teaching career, I started a fashion and lifestyle blog as a summer project. This blog shifted to a dating focus after a significant breakup, gaining traction and opening doors to radio shows, documentaries, and brand partnerships. As my relationship status changed, so did the blog, eventually morphing back to a broader lifestyle theme.
The Big Leap to Full-Time Content Creation
Balancing a 70-hour teaching week with a burgeoning blog was unsustainable, especially after personal losses and dealing with my mental health. The turning point came when I consistently matched my teaching salary through blog sponsorships. I decided it was now or never, leaving teaching to become a full-time content creator, which led to the launch of digital products and eventually my membership platform, Grow & Glow.
Grow & Glow: From Launch to Pivot
Grow & Glow launched successfully with over 100 members in less than an hour. As the platform evolved, so did its focus, shifting from general content to supporting individuals growing their brands on Instagram, mirroring my own growth on the platform. By 2020, Grow & Glow boasted 1,200 active members and a diverse range of digital offerings.
Reflecting and Projecting: The Next Steps
As we wrapped up 2021, I felt a shift in my focus. Teaching about Instagram no longer fulfilled me, and interactions at a retreat reinforced my identity as a teacher—not just of content but of educators and creators. This realization has set the stage for the next chapter, which I’ll dive into in our next episode.
Wrap-Up and What’s Next
I hope this episode gives you a clearer picture of my journey and the experiences that shape the insights I share. I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions you might have. Join me next time as we continue this journey and explore how these experiences inform my current mission to enhance online education.
Until then, bye and see you in the next episode!
