The Pit Pony Podcast - Life After Teaching

Today, we’re joined by Rowena Hicks, who dedicated over 30 years to her role as a Deputy Head Teacher and SENCO in the London-Kent area. Teaching was Rowena's life - it was her passion, her calling, and she gave it her all, right up until the moment her own health signalled it was time to step back.

Rowena opens up about the physical and emotional toll of being a people-pleaser in the world of education. From pushing through chronic stress to the realisation that her relentless work ethic was costing her health, Rowena shares her journey of self-discovery and recovery. 

She talks about the pivotal moment she took her doctor’s warning seriously, the challenges of redefining herself outside the classroom, and the newfound passion she’s poured into her second career as an author.

Tune in to hear Rowena’s inspiring path from burnout to balance, her take on the importance of self-worth, and the small, daily steps she’s taken to rebuild her life with intention and joy.

Notable links :

Rowena's website : https://www.rowenahicks.com/

Facebook group : https://www.facebook.com/groups/preventingteacherburnout

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https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this episode, we sit down with Helen Taylor, a former history teacher whose dedication to education was undeniable. Helen spent 18 years in teaching, finding joy in her students and a deep sense of purpose in the classroom. For years, she believed teaching was her lifelong path, pouring her energy and resources into her role.

But after a gruelling stint with new pressures, overwhelming workloads, and the unrelenting demands of a system that left her burned out, Helen made the life-changing decision to leave the profession she loved. 

Helen takes us through her turbulent decision to exit the profession, charting a new course and eventually finding herself soaring to unexpected heights as cabin crew for British Airways. 

Join us as Helen shares her story of resilience, personal reinvention, and the thrill of embracing a life she’d never imagined, 30,000 feet above the classroom.

https://www.tiktok.com/@helentaylor46

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You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this episode of the Pit Pony Podcast, we speak to the inspirational James Terry.

James describes himself as “born to teach.” From his first work experience as a teacher in school, he knew it was his calling. For six years, he found joy and purpose in the classroom, creating an environment that felt like home. But after moving to a new school, James lasted only four terms before he handed his resignation to the head’s PA, never looking back.

Join us as we follow James’s journey through the next eight years, facing life outside the familiar grounds of teaching. He speaks openly about the challenges, the loss of direction, and ultimately, the resilience that guided him through until he found a surprising new role that has brought him a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment.

Find James here:
Visit James's website  www.jamesterrycelebrant.co.uk
Follow James on Facebook
Follow James on Instagram

Contact James by email:
[email protected]

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this compelling episode, we meet Vicky Thurkettle, a teacher who found more than a career in the classroom - she found purpose, family, and what she believed was her path for life. Known for her unwavering dedication, Vicky poured her heart into her work, shaping young lives and embracing each day as part of her own.

But after returning from maternity leave, everything changed. Within just seven weeks, she made the unimaginable decision to leave the career she thought she’d never step away from. In this episode, Vicky opens up about her journey, the challenges she faced, and the resilience it took to leave a job she once loved so deeply.

Listen to Vicky’s story of self-discovery, courage, and transformation as she shares the reality of finding new strength and purpose beyond the classroom.

The Rawsome Chocolate website HERE
Instagram page HERE
Etsy page HERE

Tune in for an inspiring story about how life after teaching can be just as fulfilling—especially when chocolate's involved!

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Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this unexpected, laugh-out-loud bonus episode, we bring you a real-life message exchange from a loyal Pit Pony podcast listener who found herself in the most ridiculous situation - sitting at school pickup, having a peaceful moment with her egg roll, and then—bam!—hit by a car. 

You seriously can't make this up. 

Listen to the hilarious back-and-forth of Whatsapp messages, full of classic Pit Pony encouragement, a few teary moments, and the ultimate "you had to be there" twist. 

This one is short but sweet - but absolutely worth a listen! 😅

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

Hey everyone! Welcome to our pre, pre, pre-episode of the Pit Pony Podcast! We're sat here, Sunday 20th of October, 2024.

So, why are we here today? Well, we’ve been planning The Pit Pony Podcast! We're talking to members of our Life After Teaching group about their incredible journeys out of the classroom, and we were all geared up to post about it... until Facebook threw us in jail. Yep, we’ve been “restricted” and can’t even post in our own group!

But here’s the thing – we’re launching our podcast this week anyway. Jail or no jail, we’ve got five amazing episodes lined up, EARLY for those who subscribe. So, consider this your sneak peek and get ready to hear all about life beyond the classroom, straight from those who’ve lived it.

Sign up for early access HERE

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this episode, we flip the script as Sharon interviews Sarah about her own pit pony journey! Sarah takes us back to her 24-year teaching career, all the ‘heads’ she’s held (literally all of them, except her own sometimes), and what it felt like when that life came to a sudden, brutal stop. We dive into the messy aftermath, from grappling with the financial fallout to Sarah’s "Netflix, crisps, and sofa phase." And yes, her son had to adult her for a bit. Spoiler: it involves writing lists and a lot of tea.

We also get into the highs and lows of finding herself on the other side of the classroom and landing the role of Chief Operations Officer at Conexus Tuition (spoiler: Sharon might’ve had something to do with that). Tune in to hear about Sarah’s surprising path from the world of teaching to business, and how she discovered a huge part of herself along the way, including her realization of being neurodivergent.

Full of laughter, deep dives into identity, and a few emotional moments, this episode is a celebration of Sarah’s resilience, the power of saying ‘no,’ and how sometimes life’s biggest curveballs can lead to the best opportunities. Grab a cuppa and join us for a heartwarming chat!

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

In this episode, we’re thrilled to share Sharon's incredible journey from teacher to seven-figure business owner! 🎉 Sharon opens up about her transition from the classroom, where she once felt trapped as a “pit pony,” to building Conexus Tuition, a thriving business helping students and franchisees all across the UK.

We dive into the highs, lows, and everything in between – from those early days of driving around in her Ford Mondeo for tutoring sessions to scaling her business into a national success. Along the way, Sharon drops absolute golden nuggets on mindset, resilience, and how to move from survival mode to thriving. 

If you’re a teacher thinking about stepping out of the classroom or just someone looking for inspiration to grow your business, this episode is packed with practical advice (and a few laughs) to get you thinking bigger!

Grab a cuppa ☕ and enjoy this one – we had so much fun recording it, and we know you’re going to love it too!

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

Hello and welcome back to the Pit Pony Podcast! In this episode, we’re bringing you the original audio from the Pit Pony YouTube video recorded back in April 2021. It’s the video that started it all – showing teachers how to break free from the financial and mental traps of teaching. While some things may have aged a bit, the principles still stand strong.

What We Talk About:

• Su’s Exit Story: Our guest, Su Bowie, talks about her journey out of teaching. She was the sole breadwinner, stuck in a job that was taking a toll on her mental health. Su shares how she felt completely trapped by her salary and responsibilities, but finally found a way out.
• Fear vs. Finances: We dive into the real reason teachers stay in toxic jobs – it’s not just about the money. It’s fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of leaving behind what you know, and fear of change. But we break down how to face that fear head-on and reframe your financial situation so you can make your escape.
• The Financial Blueprint: Sharon shares her famous “bottom line” method – a simple, no-nonsense approach to figuring out exactly what you need to live on. Forget about replacing one job with another. We talk about multiple income streams, living within your means, and setting realistic financial goals to start your new life.
• Real Talk: This episode is full of practical advice, from cutting out unnecessary expenses (yes, that daily coffee adds up!) to using your teaching skills in creative ways. Whether it’s tutoring, freelance work, or a complete career pivot, there’s always a way to make it work.

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

Hello again! It’s Sharon and Sarah, back with another episode of the Pit Pony Podcast. Today, we’re sharing the behind-the-scenes story of the Pit Pony YouTube video, which somehow got over 100,000 views – despite a few technical hiccups (thanks, tech gods). Spoiler alert: it was almost a total disaster, but we made it through!

What We Chat About:

• Tech Woes and Triumphs: So, picture this – we’re all set to record the famous Pit Pony video with our amazing friend Su Bowie, and right in the middle of Su’s heartfelt story, Sarah’s computer throws a wobbly. It wouldn’t be us if things went perfectly, right? But don’t worry – we got there in the end, even if Sarah’s mic sounded like she was calling from inside a cupboard.
• Su’s “Tree Moment”: Sue shared her raw and powerful story about the time she seriously considered driving into a tree, just to give herself a break from teaching. It sparked a massive response in the group, with hundreds of teachers saying, “I thought it was just me.” It was a turning point that made us realise just how many teachers were feeling the same way.
• The Pit Pony Plan: We also dive into the financial side of leaving teaching – yes, that slightly scary but totally do-able blueprint. Sharon’s got a way with breaking it all down (bank statements, daily targets, and no more takeout coffees), so you can start working toward freedom without panic.
• Why We’re Pit Ponies: We explain why “pit pony” is more than just a catchy name. Teachers, like pit ponies, spend their whole lives in a system that often feels inescapable. But, as we’ve learned, there is a way out, and it doesn’t involve sacrificing your sanity.

Send us a message.

Voice Message Us:
You can send us a voice message EASILY, whether it be a question, comment, review or anything you like! And if we like it, we'll feature your message on an upcoming episode.
https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help (click to access their webpages):

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

Join Us:

• Hit subscribe to the Pit Pony Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes – we’ve got some brilliant stories coming up from teachers who’ve left the classroom and are thriving in their new lives.
• Sign up to our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/i1L5ck
• Find us on social media and give us a follow for updates, and if you’re not already in the Facebook group… what are you waiting for?

Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real