Kimberly Brown

Audrey: Welcome to the show! To start, I ask all my guests on Women Just Like You this question: as a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Kim Brown: From a very young age, I was drawn to the idea of being a teacher. I think it was the combination of my admiration for my own teachers and how they shaped my understanding of the world. They were not just educators but also protectors and guides during my formative years. Their influence was profound, instilling in me a love for learning and a desire to provide a similar nurturing environment for others.

Audrey: That’s wonderful. What inspired you at such a young age?

Kim Brown: My inspiration really solidified in third grade. My teacher that year was exceptional—she made learning not just fun but memorable with creative methods that engaged us deeply. She had this prize box that made achieving personal milestones exciting. Learning about fractions was made fun through interactive games and personal attention, which helped me develop a strong sense of self and confidence in my abilities. It’s these elements that inspired me to pursue a career in creating such enriching experiences for others.

Audrey: Amazing how specific memories can influence our career paths. Speaking of which, tell us about your journey from aspiring teacher to where you are now.

Kim Brown: My journey has been quite the evolution, influenced heavily by my background. Growing up in a household focused on scientific inquiry and data-driven decision-making, I found a unique intersection in educational methodologies that emphasize measurable outcomes and evidence-based practices. Early on, I was determined to integrate this scientific approach into my teaching, focusing on results and adaptability. This led to opportunities in school leadership, where I could scale these practices and influence broader educational strategies.

Audrey: What challenges did you face during your career in education?

Kim Brown: Leadership in education is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also fraught with challenges. The transition to administrative roles brought a new level of responsibility and stress, especially during the pandemic. We were adapting to an entirely new mode of teaching while ensuring the emotional and educational well-being of our students. The rapid expansion of our school compounded these challenges, ultimately leading to a personal reckoning with burnout. It was a difficult period where I had to confront the sustainability of my career against my health and personal life.

Audrey: That’s a profound shift. How did you transition from education to your current role?

Kim Brown: The decision to leave education was not easy, but it opened a new path in legal operations—a field that, surprisingly, aligns closely with the strategic and organizational skills I honed as a principal. In my roles at Meta and now Netflix, I apply the same principles of structured program management, goal setting, and cross-functional collaboration to streamline operations and enhance organizational efficacy. It’s a different arena, but the core skills translate seamlessly.

Audrey: Reflecting on your time in education, what insights can you share, particularly for women looking to advance into educational leadership?

Kim Brown: Advancing into educational leadership requires a blend of vision and pragmatism. It’s crucial to cultivate a nurturing yet challenging environment for both students and staff. For women in education, my advice is to seek out leadership roles, even small ones, as each experience is a building block to more significant opportunities. It’s about growing within your role and expanding your influence to make a tangible impact on your educational community.

Audrey: What would you say to educators feeling burnt out or considering a career change?

Kim Brown: Prioritizing your well-being is essential. The teaching profession is incredibly demanding, and it’s vital to recognize when it’s time to step back or change paths. For those considering a shift, I recommend proactive networking and exploring how your inherent skills as educators can transition into new fields. Planning your career transition thoughtfully and strategically can ensure a smooth and fulfilling move into a new professional chapter.

Audrey: Any final thoughts or a favorite quote you'd like to share with our listeners?

Kim Brown: Absolutely, a quote that resonates with me deeply is, "This too shall pass." It serves as a reminder that our current circumstances are always evolving. Whether you're experiencing highs or facing challenges, each stage is temporary and teaches us valuable lessons about resilience and adaptability. Embrace change and maintain a mindset that is open to new experiences and learning opportunities.