Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Teboul.
Hi Natalie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When Covid-19 hit in March, and I had to change everything I knew about teaching and switch to a virtual platform. Not only was it frustrating and discouraging, but it honestly felt nearly impossible to do my job correctly over Zoom. So in August of 2019, I made the difficult decision to leave the classroom, and start my own private tutoring company. In addition to starting my own LLC, I also teamed up with my friends at Inspired Movement Dance, and have acted as their Director of Education. Since August, I have grown my own business, and created a learning space and library at the dance studio to support all the dancers academically!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, it has been smoother than classroom teaching, haha. However, there were a number of things I didn’t know I had to do when it came to starting a business… There’s a lot of random fees and registrations. I think I have everything all worked out though, finally! The Small Business Development Center in San Diego was incredibly helpful, any small business or someone starting an LLC should make an appointment with them.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have a hodgepodge of skills and jobs, so a lot of people know me in different roles. (Teachers always have to hustle!) I’m an educator, writer, and charcuterie expert. Educator: My students know me as “Miss T” or “Miss Natalie.” I started my teaching career as a 6th grade math and science teacher with the New York City Teaching Fellows in the South Bronx. After obtaining my Masters in Education and teaching in the NYC public school system for two years, I realized I had to leave New York and move to the sunshine. I worked as a math specialist for two years, and then the 5th grade teacher for two more years at Chabad Hebrew Academy while I obtained my MFA in Creative Writing at SDSU. I am now a private tutor through my LLC, NBTutors. Writer: I was accepted to San Diego State University on a Graduate Research Fellowship to complete my MFA in Creative Writing, where I completed a manuscript for a novel. My unpublished book is my proudest accomplishment! Charcutier: My friends at Venissimo Cheese know me as “The Salami Princess.” When I say I am a charcuterie expert, I don’t mean I can assemble a board of cured meats like the Instagram influencers who make pretty boards. My father is French and actually makes artisan meats for a living, so I literally grew up with meats hanging from our kitchen ceiling… I help my dad find small clients and distribute his charcuterie products here in San Diego. Our family company is called Larchmont Charcuterie.
How do you define success?
The ability to balance work and play.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @imd_learningspace
