You Didn’t Become a Teacher to Be a Babysitter: Reclaiming Purpose in the Classroom — and Beyond

Teachers in Transition: Career Change and Real Talk for Burned-Out Teachers

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In this powerful kickoff to a 3-part Captain America series, Vanessa Jackson unpacks what makes Steve Rogers more than just a superhero — and how his journey mirrors that of so many teachers today. From being paraded as a symbol to reclaiming his purpose, Cap’s story is one of values, conviction, and courageous action.

Vanessa explores how educators, like Cap, often feel reduced to performance — test scores, politics, or being treated like glorified babysitters — instead of being honored as the impact-makers they truly are. If you're feeling lost in the system or questioning your next move, this episode will help you find your compass again.

🛡️ Discover the power of choosing purpose over permission
🧭 Learn why your values are your real “super soldier serum”
🎯 And explore the moment when it’s time to jump — even without a parachute

✅ Episode Tags

Career Transition, Teacher Burnout, Captain America, Teacher Identity, Purpose, Leadership, Steve Rogers, Peggy Carter, Values, Courage, Burnout Recovery, Women in Education, Teacher to Coach, Education Podcast, Veteran’s Day, Marvel Metaphors, Personal Growth

🔗 Recommended Links for This Episode’s Show Notes:

The DECIDE Course (Self-paced)
Explore the self-paced DECIDE course to see if you are ready to leave the classroom or if you just need a small change.
👉 Learn more here.

Discovery Call Calendar
Book a free Discovery Session with Vanessa:
👉 https://teachersintransition.com/calendar

Email: [email protected]

Leave a Voicemail/Text: 512-640-9099

🌐 Social Links

• Instagram + Threads @teachers.in.transition
• Facebook Page
• LinkedIn
• Bluesky @beyondteaching.bsky.social
• X (Twitter) @EduExitStrategy

🎬 Pop Culture Context

• Captain America: The First Avenger – available to stream on Disney+

The transcript to this podcast is found on the episode’s homepage at Buzzsprout