Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leslie Long. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Leslie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you’re open to it, can you talk to us about the best (or worst) investment you’ve made. What’s the backstory and the relevant context behind why you made the investment
The best investment I’ve made to date is in myself. Throughout the years, I’ve prioritized investing in my own education and personal growth. I’ve always considered myself a sponge, capable of absorbing vast amounts of information. While it sometimes took time for me to grasp the impact of this knowledge on my life or how to apply it in serving others, I have no regrets about the years and resources I’ve dedicated to self-improvement. However, looking back, I recognize that I would have approached my educational journey differently if given the chance. I now see the value in taking time to develop my critical thinking skills and mature in my lifestyle choices before committing to further education. Nonetheless, the experiences and connections I’ve gained along this path have been invaluable.
My growth extends beyond acquiring knowledge; it lies in how I’ve applied the skills I’ve acquired. Through interactions with diverse individuals and experiences in various work environments, I’ve been unexpectedly led into the realm of entrepreneurship. This journey has been transformative, leading me to embrace the role of a business owner and the autonomy of working for myself. Being an entrepreneur requires constant self-investment—continuously learning, developing, and adapting to new challenges. For me, this cycle of self-improvement has been immensely rewarding and has solidified my belief that investing in myself is the key to long-lasting growth and success.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hey there, I’m Leslie—an educator turned educational entrepreneur with a passion for empowering learners of all ages. My journey began over 15 years ago in the bustling city of Chicago, where I earned my teaching degree and embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of inner-city students. Working in such a diverse and dynamic environment, I quickly learned the importance of authenticity and relatability. Being a Chicago native myself, I brought my own cultural experiences to the classroom, creating connections with students that went beyond the traditional teacher-student dynamic. This ability to relate to my students on a personal level laid the groundwork for my teaching philosophy—always be authentic, and always meet students where they are.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients, from students seeking academic support to organizations in need of innovative educational solutions. My expertise lies in curriculum development, digital design, and personalized learning experiences. Whether I’m crafting custom learning materials or providing one-on-one tutoring, my goal remains the same: to empower learners and ignite their passion for education.
What sets me apart from others in my field is my unique blend of classroom experience, advanced degrees in educational practices, and a deep understanding of the learning process. I believe in the power of building strong relationships with my clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored solutions that drive results. But perhaps what I’m most proud of is my willingness to challenge the status quo. Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new approaches to education has allowed me to push the boundaries of traditional teaching and create innovative learning experiences that resonate with today’s learners.
So, if you’re looking for someone who’s not afraid to think outside the box and push the boundaries of traditional education, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a student seeking academic support, an organization in need of curriculum development, or anyone in between, I’m here to help you unlock your full potential and achieve your learning goals.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
In the journey of becoming who I am today, I’ve found myself in a continuous state of learning and unlearning, particularly from the traditional standpoint ingrained in my family’s values. Raised in an environment where hard work and following a set pattern—schooling, job, marriage, home, kids—were considered the blueprint for success, I initially internalized these beliefs without question.From a young age, I embraced the notion that success was synonymous with adhering to societal norms and expectations. However, as I embarked on my own path, I realized that this predefined trajectory didn’t necessarily align with my own aspirations and dreams.
My journey into entrepreneurship served as a catalyst for unlearning these deeply ingrained beliefs. I discovered that success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept dictated by external standards. Rather, it’s a deeply personal journey defined by individual expectations and aspirations.
Entrepreneurship taught me the invaluable lesson that failure is an integral part of the journey to success. It shattered the illusion of a linear path and challenged me to redefine my own definition of success. I learned that true success stems from the courage to pursue my own dreams, rather than conforming to societal norms.
In the midst of uncertainty and self-doubt, I embarked on the process of unlearning and redefining my path. I set new boundaries, parameters, and goals that reflected my unique expectations and values. Embracing the beauty of authenticity, I discovered the freedom that comes from charting my own course and embracing my true self.
Today, I stand firm in my conviction that true success lies in embracing my own journey, unburdened by the expectations of others. I’ve learned to trust my instincts, follow my passions, and forge my own path—one that is uniquely mine and authentically me.
How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.
Absolutely! I run my own online store on www.longing2learn.com. Inspired by the wisdom of fellow teacherpreneurs, I chose to start small and grow organically. With my extensive background as an educational expert, I felt confident in creating a platform that reflects my unique approach to learning and development.
In addition to my own website, I also sell individual resources on Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT). Initially, I began sharing my resources on TPT many years ago as a way to connect with other educators and share the materials that had been effective in my own classrooms. However, I hesitated to fully embrace the platform, questioning whether my resources would be as beneficial to others who may have different teaching styles or student demographics. Over time, I realized the value of sharing my resources with a wider audience. With a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of curriculum design, I recognized the potential to empower educators and homeschooling families with tools tailored to their specific needs.
My journey into entrepreneurship has been a process of self-discovery and growth. While initially hesitant to fully leverage third-party platforms, I now see the value in diversifying my distribution channels. By having my own website, I can curate a tailored experience for my audience, offering not just resources but also opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and community-building. As I continue to expand my offerings, I’m taking a deliberate approach, focusing on quality over quantity. Each resource undergoes careful refinement and enhancement, including the addition of video instructions and written guides to ensure accessibility for all learners. In the coming months, I’ll be rolling out new features, including additional materials, course offerings, and blog content. Subscribers to my newsletters and monthly membership will have exclusive access to these premieres, further fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Ultimately, my decision to sell on my own website reflects my commitment to providing value and support to educators and learners alike. By maintaining control over my platform, I can ensure that my resources are presented in a way that aligns with my vision and values, while also fostering a vibrant and engaged community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.longing2learn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longing2learn?igsh=YzVkODRmOTdmMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsalongstory02?mibextid=PtKPJ9
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Longing2learn
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC57i752BwWol3W7I100atPw
Image Credits
self portraits