When Maya Hendricks left teaching during the pandemic, she wasn’t just walking away from the classroom, she was stepping into the unknown. Like so many educators, she had poured her heart into her students, but the combination of remote learning, new motherhood, and constant uncertainty had taken its toll. With an infant at home, Maya realized she couldn’t continue to give her best to both her family and her students. It was time for a change, even if she wasn’t yet sure what that looked like.
Maya’s Pivot
When Maya came across the opportunity for a content design role at a nonprofit focused on whole child wellness, something sparked. She knew she had transferable skills – communication, creativity, empathy, and curriculum design – but like many teachers, she needed to translate them into the language of the broader job market.
That’s when our paths crossed. As the hiring manager for that role, I could immediately see Maya’s potential. What made her stand out was her ability to connect her classroom experience to a sample work product that showcased her design and storytelling skills. Instead of simply listing responsibilities, she demonstrated what she was capable of with a thoughtful, creative portfolio.
From the very beginning, she saw potential in me and helped me translate my teaching experience
“Margot was the hiring manager who took a chance on me and brought me into my first role outside the classroom at an education nonprofit,” Maya says. “From the very beginning, she saw potential in me and helped me translate my teaching experience, marketing background, and design skills into skills that really mattered in other industries.”
That mindset of seeing herself not as just a teacher but as a creative content producer with a deep understanding of engagement made her an easy “yes.”
Staying in Flow
Once she joined the nonprofit, Maya continued to grow, quickly becoming a trusted team member and creative problem solver. Over time, I had the privilege of mentoring her as she explored her next chapter.
“What I love about Margot’s approach is that it’s both practical and deeply supportive,” she shared. “She gives you concrete actions to take while helping you stay grounded and confident through all the uncertainty.”
What I love about Margot’s approach is that it’s both practical and deeply supportive
When she felt ready for another evolution, Maya set her sights on instructional design, a role that merged her teaching experience, content design skills, and growing interest in digital learning.
Today, Maya works as an instructional designer, crafting learning experiences that reach far beyond a single classroom.
“Since then, she’s continued to mentor me through my next transition, helping me think creatively about what’s possible beyond the traditional job search,” Maya said. “Margot has this incredible way of helping educators rediscover their value and build careers that actually feel fulfilling.”
Margot has this incredible way of helping educators rediscover their value and build careers that actually feel fulfilling
The Takeaway
Maya’s story is a powerful reminder that teaching doesn’t end when you leave education – it evolves. Her journey shows what’s possible when you trust your instincts, tell your story authentically, and allow yourself to grow into new spaces, one intentional pivot at a time.
“If you’re an educator who’s ready for a change,” Maya says, “I can’t recommend Margot’s Pivot to Flow framework enough. It’s a game-changer.”
Ready to Start Your Pivot?
Book your free 30-minute Catalyst Conversation with me to discover how you can start your career transition journey and find your flow.
