Stepping Away from the Mindful School Marketing Podcast
The name of the podcast I co-hosted says it all: Mindful School Marketing. So it feels right that my decision to step away from it is rooted in the same mindfulness that the show was built on.
A little background
I started podcasting in 2017 as a co-host of Hallway Chats, a show featuring conversations with people who work in and around independent schools. It was a natural fit for me, and I loved the connections it created.
In 2021, I joined Aubrey Bursch as co-host of Mindful School Marketing, a podcast focused on helping school marketers do their work with intention and purpose. It aligned beautifully with the clients we serve every day at Design TLC, and I’m so grateful for every episode we made and the connections that resulted from this endeavor.
Why now
I’ve been paying attention to what energizes me and what drains me. That kind of honest self-reflection is not always comfortable, but it matters.
My commitment to web design and development for schools and nonprofits is as strong as ever. If anything, it’s growing. Accessibility in particular is an area where I want to go deeper. The web should work for everyone, and helping our clients get there requires ongoing learning and focused attention. I want to give that the space it deserves.
I also serve on the board of Aspire Afterschool, a commitment I take seriously and want to show up for fully. Between running Design TLC, board service, and staying current in a rapidly changing field, I’ve had to make some choices about where my time and energy go.
And personally, I’ve been listening to my body more. I want to move more, rest more, and spend more time away from screens. My dog Henry is getting older, and that has a way of reminding me to be present.
Stepping away from the podcast is not a loss. It’s an alignment.
Aubrey will carry this forward beautifully
I want to say something about my co-host: Aubrey Bursch is exceptional. She is thoughtful, prepared, and genuinely passionate about the school marketing community she serves. Working alongside her has been a real privilege. She brings warmth and expertise to every conversation, and I have no doubt that Mindful School Marketing will continue to be a meaningful resource for school marketers. Please keep listening and supporting her work.
Thank you
To everyone who tuned in, shared an episode, or reached out after hearing something that resonated with you: thank you. It meant more than you know!
Tara Claeys Founder, Design TLC