Motherhood vs. Teaching: Choosing Family Over Career

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, host Amy sits down with Kerry Komarov to discuss her transition from a decade-long teaching career to entrepreneurship. Kerry opens up about why she left her dream job, the challenges of balancing motherhood and work, and how she created a new, fulfilling path outside the classroom.

About the Guest:

Kerry Komarov is a former middle school reading teacher who, after starting a family, made the leap into entrepreneurship. She now runs her own business as a creative business strategist, helping other business owners maximize their digital presence and strategies.

Main Topics Covered:

• Self-care and the power of decluttering
• Kerry’s lifelong dream of teaching and what drew her to middle schoolers
• Navigating the emotional and practical challenges of leaving a beloved profession
• The pressures and mental load of being a working parent
• Logistical considerations, including health insurance and financial planning for a career change
• Kerry’s journey into entrepreneurship and what her business offers
• Reflections on identity, capability, and embracing change
• Fun rapid-fire questions about reality TV, space travel, and dream purchases

Featured Quote:

“Being a present and good and fun-loving mom is also something I always wanted. And I don't think that I personally could do both.” – Kerry Komarov

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction & Kerry’s background
• 03:32 – Why teaching was always her dream job
• 07:32 – Choosing to work with middle schoolers
• 08:34 – What changed after her second child and maternity leave
• 11:55 – Emotional challenges and letting go of identity as a teacher
• 14:24 – Family conversations and figuring out work-home balance
• 20:02 – Fears and anxieties about starting a business
• 23:18 – Navigating practicalities like health insurance
• 25:07 – What Kerry misses (and doesn’t) about teaching
• 27:54 – Overview of Kerry’s new business and services
• 31:12 – Final fun questions and closing thoughts

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