Curate Your Career

Epizode

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  33. August Job Search Reset: Cover Letters 12.08.2026 45min

  August Job Search Reset: Cover LettersAlli and I are taking a short summer break, so we’re bringing back a few episodes that feel especially useful as we head into late summer and the post-Labor Day job search push.This week, we’re revisiting our episode on cover letters.Love them or hate them, cover letters can be one of the most helpful places to connect the dots between your experience and the role you want next... especially if you’re applying outside museums, changing lanes, or trying to explain work that doesn’t fit neatly into one job title.In this episode, we talk about what cover letters are actually for, how they differ from resumes, and why a strong cover letter should not just repeat everything in your resume in paragraph form.We cover:why cover letters still matterwhat a cover letter can do that a resume cannothow to explain why you want this role and this organizationhow to connect your experience to the job descriptionhow to avoid generic or overly formal languagehow to write about transferable skillswhat to include when you’re changing fields or job familiesand how to make the whole thing feel a little less painfulIf you’re refreshing your application materials before the fall job search season, this is a great episode to revisit.
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  32. August Job Search Reset: Why Your Resume Isn’t Working 05.08.2026 43min

  August Job Search Reset: Why Your Resume Isn’t WorkingAlli and I are taking a short summer break, so we’re bringing back a few episodes that feel especially useful as we head into late summer and the post-Labor Day job search push.This one is all about resumes... because before you start applying to everything, it’s worth asking whether your resume is actually doing its job.In this episode, we talk about why museum resumes often don’t land the way people hope, especially when applying outside the field or trying to communicate complex experience clearly.We cover:why your resume is not your full life storythe difference between a resume and a CVwhy formatting matters more than you thinkhow to write for the person actually reading your resumewhy museum jargon can get in the wayhow to focus on outcomes instead of taskswhy tailoring mattersand how to make your experience easier for a hiring manager to understandIf you’re planning to refresh your materials, get back into the market, or apply more intentionally this fall, this is a great episode to revisit.
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  31. Interview Prep 101: What Happens During the Interview 29.07.2026 53min

  You prepared your stories.You researched the organization.You landed the interview.Now... what actually happens once the interview begins?In Part 2 of this interview series, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell walk through what actually happens during the interview process, from the initial screening call to panel interviews, presentations, final-round conversations, and everything in between.Interviews are more than just having the perfect answers, it's also knowing how to tell your stories with confidence and remembering that you're evaluating the organization just as much as they're evaluating you.Throughout the conversation, Elin and Alli discuss:what to expect during first, second, and final-round interviewswho you'll likely meet throughout the hiring process, and what each person is looking forstrategies for navigating panel interviews with confidencewhy employers care just as much about your thought process as your final answerinterview presentations, projects, and how to think about unpaid interview workthoughtful questions to ask that reveal an organization's cultureinterview red flags and what they might tell you about the workplacehow to follow up professionally after an interviewwhether you should ask for feedback after a rejection and when it may or may not be worth itWhether this is your very first interview or your fiftieth, understanding how the interview process works can help you walk in feeling more prepared, less overwhelmed, and better equipped to show why you're the right person for the role.And perhaps just as importantly, it can help you decide whether the organization is the right fit for you.#MuseumCareers #MuseumJobs #MuseumProfessionals #CareerDevelopment #InterviewTips #JobSearch #MuseumLeadership #CurateYourCareer #MuseumStudies #CareerCoaching
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  30. Interview Prep 101: What to Do Before the Interview 22.07.2026 1h 2min

  You got the interview. Amazing. Exciting. Slightly terrifying.Now what?In this episode, Elin and Alli kick off a new series on interviews, starting with everything that happens before you ever enter the Zoom room or walk into the building: the preparation.Because interview prep is not about memorizing perfect answers. It’s about understanding the role, researching the organization, knowing what stories you want to tell, and walking in with more confidence and less panic.We talk about:what to ask when you get the interview invitationhow to prep differently for first round, final round, Zoom, and in-person interviewswhy interviews are not pop quizzeswhat you can and cannot controlhow to research the organizationwhy the job posting is your answer keyhow to anticipate likely interview questionswhy notes are allowedwhat to do if you ramble, freeze, fidget, or over-explainand how to build a pre-interview confidence ritualWe also get into the reminder that you are interviewing the organization too.Yes, you want the job. But you also deserve to know whether the role, team, culture, and organization are actually a good fit for you.If interviews make you nervous, this episode will help you feel more grounded, prepared, and ready to show them why you.
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  29. Leveling Up Leadership Part 2 of 2: How to Build Leadership Experience Before You Have the Title 15.07.2026 53min

  This episode is Part 2 of our conversation about leadership skills.In the previous episode, we talked about how to identify and define your leadership experience, especially if you don’t have a formal leadership title yet.In this episode, we’re getting practical.Once you know where you are and where you want to go, how do you actually build the leadership skills you need?Because here’s the thing: leadership experience does not always arrive neatly packaged in a promotion, title change, or direct report.Sometimes you have to create the opportunity yourself.Elin and Alli talk through concrete ways museum professionals can start building leadership experience, whether you’re an emerging leader, hoping to move into management, advocating for a raise or title change, or trying to strengthen your resume for the next step.They also talk about why it is okay to be a little selfish about your professional growth.Museum professionals are often deeply mission-driven, generous, and very good at over-functioning for the good of the organization. But your growth matters too. If you need a skill for the next role you want, it is okay to look for ways to build it. If your current job is not giving you the challenge or experience you need, it is okay to create opportunities elsewhere. And if something benefits both you and the organization? Great.But you do not have to pretend your own career goals are irrelevant.Key TakeawaysLeadership experience is not limited to managing direct reports.Projects, committees, task forces, boards, and working groups can all help build leadership skills.You need to know where you are and where you want to go before you can build the right experience.It is okay to create opportunities for yourself instead of waiting for your organization to hand them to you.Strategic volunteering can help you build skills, relationships, and context.Your museum is not the only place where you can gain leadership experience.If your current role is not challenging you, look for ways to create your own “extra credit.”You are allowed to pursue opportunities because they benefit your career.In a field that often rewards self-sacrifice, looking out for yourself is not selfish. It is necessary.Chapters00:00 Picking up from the last leadership episode01:20 What does successful leadership look like?03:30 Leaders who support, explain, and model the work05:20 Advocating for people and helping them grow06:30 How to start building leadership experience07:30 Know where you are and where you want to go08:55 Leading projects from start to finish11:25 Creating opportunities for yourself13:25 Joining or leading committees15:00 Professional associations, networks, and peer groups16:00 Why it’s okay to be strategic about your own growth18:00 Getting involved outside your organization19:20 Boards, nonprofits, and volunteer leadership20:30 Using outside opportunities to support career pivots21:30 Working groups, task forces, and focused leadership experience22:15 Building management skills outside the museum fieldKeywordsmuseum leadershipmuseum careersemerging leadersleadership skillsmuseum professionalscareer developmentmuseum managementprofessional developmentnonprofit leadershipmuseum career growthleadership experiencecareer advancementmuseum jobstransferable skillsCurate Your Career
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  28. Leveling Up Leadership Skills. Part 1 of 2: Are You Already Leading? 08.07.2026 53min

  Leadership isn't just about becoming a manager.In museums, many professionals are already leading long before their job title reflects it. You might be managing projects, mentoring colleagues, solving problems across departments, influencing decisions, or becoming the person everyone turns to when something goes wrong.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell explore what leadership actually looks like in museums and why so many professionals underestimate the leadership experience they already have.Together, they discuss:why leadership and management aren't the same thinghow to recognize when you're already operating at a leadership levelthe different levels of responsibility that exist throughout museum careerswhy job titles often fail to capture the complexity of museum workhow small museum professionals build leadership experience in unique waysthe many forms leadership can take beyond supervising staffThey also break down different types of leadership, including:strategic leadershipbudget and financial leadershipproject leadershippeople leadershipinstitutional leadershipthought leadershipWhether you're hoping to become a manager, preparing for senior leadership, or simply wondering if you're ready for your next career move, this episode will help you start looking at your experience through a different lens.Part 2 will focus on how to intentionally build leadership skills and communicate them effectively on your resume, LinkedIn profile, cover letter, and during interviews.🔑 Key TakeawaysLeadership is about more than supervising people or having a management title.Many museum professionals are already demonstrating leadership without realizing it.Your job title doesn't always reflect your actual responsibilities.Leadership can include strategic thinking, budgeting, project management, mentoring, institutional planning, and thought leadership.Small museums often provide opportunities to develop broad leadership experience earlier in your career.Understanding your leadership experience is the first step toward communicating it effectively.Before you can convince hiring managers you're ready to lead, you first have to recognize the leadership skills you already have.⏱ Chapters00:00 Escape rooms, cooking & museum trivia02:20 Introduction: Are you already leading?05:45 Leadership vs. management10:00 Signs you're already operating as a leader16:00 Levels of responsibility in museum careers28:00 Small museums and leadership experience34:00 Strategic leadership40:00 Budget and financial leadership43:30 Project leadership48:00 People leadership vs. management54:00 Institutional leadership56:00 Thought leadership59:30 Why this became a two-part series1:00:30 Preview of Part 2🔍 Keywordsmuseum leadershipmuseum managementmuseum careersmuseum professionalsmuseum career developmentleadership skillsmuseum managersmuseum career growthmuseum job searchmuseum resumesmuseum leadership developmentprofessional development museumsmuseum career coachingcareer advancementleadership in museums
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  27. Behind Deaccessioned Coaching: Helping Museum Pros Find What's Next with Elin Filbey 01.07.2026 55min

  What happens when the career you've worked so hard for no longer aligns with the life you want to live?In this special episode of Curate Your Career, Alli turns the microphone on co-host Elin Filbey to explore the story behind Deaccessioned Coaching, the ONLY coaching business dedicated specifically to helping museum professionals navigate careers beyond museums!They discuss what led Elin to leave the field herself, how she built a business helping others through the same transition, and why leaving museums doesn't have to mean leaving behind the passion, skills, or identity you've built over the years.Whether you're actively considering a career change, feeling unsure about your next step, or simply curious about what other opportunities might exist, this conversation offers practical advice, reassurance, and a reminder that your career can evolve as your life and values evolve.In this episode, you'll hear about:Why Elin started Deaccessioned Coaching after leaving museum work herselfThe common reasons museum professionals begin considering careers outside the fieldHow values, not just salary or burnout, often drive career transitionsThe transferable skills museum professionals bring to other industriesBuilding confidence during a career changeWhy leaving museums doesn't mean you've failedThe surprising careers former museum professionals have gone on to pursueHow to stay connected to museums even if you leave professionallyThe idea of finding your own "Tuscan villa" and defining success on your own termsIf you've ever wondered what comes next after museums, or simply needed permission to imagine a different path, this episode is for you.Learn more about Elin Filbey and Deaccessioned Coaching:https://deaccessionedcoaching.comConnect with Elin on LinkedIn for career transition tips, transferable skills advice, and museum-friendly job opportunities.
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  26. Our AAM Recap: Connections, Careers, and Curate Your Community 24.06.2026 55min

  What We Learned at AAMFresh off the American Alliance of Museums Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, Elin and Alli are reflecting on their biggest takeaways. It's not from the sessions, but from the conversations, connections, and unexpected moments that happened in between.In this informal recap episode, they discuss what it was like attending AAM as independent museum professionals, how networking feels different when you're no longer representing an institution, and why some of the most valuable conference experiences happen outside the convention center.Elin shares her strategy of walking the expo hall and talking directly with vendors to uncover career opportunities for museum professionals. Along the way, she discovered hiring trends, museum-adjacent industries looking for talent, and new possibilities for professionals interested in staying connected to the field in different ways.Alli reflects on the power of peer-to-peer networking, reconnecting with colleagues, and finding inspiration through conversations with other independent museum professionals. Together, they explore how conferences can create meaningful opportunities for collaboration, problem-solving, and professional growth.The conversation also covers:How to approach networking when you don't know anyoneWhy smaller gatherings can sometimes be more valuable than large networking eventsThe importance of planning for rest and recharging during conferencesHow to follow up after a conference so those connections don't disappearThe value of attending conferences outside your immediate fieldEmerging ideas for building community beyond annual conferencesPlus, Elin and Alli introduce an early concept they're exploring: Curate Your Community, a potential initiative focused on creating more opportunities for museum professionals to connect in person throughout the year, not just at conferences.Whether you attended AAM this year, are considering a conference in the future, or simply want to build stronger professional connections, this episode offers practical advice and honest reflections on what makes these gatherings meaningful.In This EpisodeElin's "conference floor hustle" and what she learned from museum vendorsMuseum-adjacent industries hiring right nowThe surprising value of informal networkingWhy knowing your personality matters when planning conference experiencesPost-conference follow-up strategies that actually workThe role of community in sustaining museum careersEarly thoughts on Curate Your CommunityMentioned in This EpisodeAmerican Alliance of Museums (AAM)Museum ArchipelagoAmerican Association for State and Local History (AASLH)Science History InstituteAfrican American Museum in PhiladelphiaMuseum Workers Advocacy DayCurate Your Community (in development)We'd Love to Hear From YouDid you attend AAM? What was your biggest takeaway?And what do you think about the idea of Curate Your Community? We'd love to hear your thoughts, feedback, and ideas as we continue exploring what meaningful connection and community could look like for museum professionals.
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  25. From Teacher to Curator of Education: What Actually Helped Will Break Into Museums 17.06.2026 51min

  For two years, Will did everything he thought he was supposed to do.He applied for museum jobs. He followed up. He networked. He hired a resume writer. He earned a master's degree. He volunteered.And still...nothing.In this episode, we sit down with Will Turner, a former high school history teacher who spent two years trying to break into museums before finally landing his current role as Curator of Education at the Museum of Florida History.But this conversation isn't just about a successful career transition.It's about what happens when you're qualified, motivated, and doing the work... but your applications still aren't landing.Will shares the realities of transitioning from education into museums, including:why his teaching resume wasn't workingthe biggest misconceptions he had about museum hiringhow volunteering and relationship-building opened doorsthe role networking actually played in his transitionwhy generic resume advice often falls shorthow interview preparation became the missing pieceand what finally helped him stand out in a crowded applicant poolWe also discuss the emotional side of career transitions: rejection, confidence, geographic flexibility, and learning how to tell a compelling story about your experience.If you've ever thought:"I know I have the skills. Why isn't this working?"This episode is for you.🔑 Key TakeawaysMuseum hiring often requires translating your experience into museum-specific language.A strong resume alone isn't always enough, interview preparation matters too.Volunteering can be a powerful way to gain experience and build relationships within the field.Networking works best when it happens through genuine involvement in the community.Teachers often underestimate how many leadership and project management skills they already have.Rejection doesn't always mean you're unqualified. Sometimes it's simply about fit, timing, or competition.Confidence is often built through the process, not before it.Breaking into museums can take longer than expected, but strategic adjustments can make a huge difference.
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  24. How to Be a LinkedIn Baddie 10.06.2026 1h

  We get asked about resumes.We get asked about cover letters.We get asked about interviews.And we get a lot of questions about LinkedIn.How often should you post?Do recruiters actually find people there?Do you need LinkedIn Premium?Should you be networking with strangers?And what does it actually mean to have a "personal brand"?In this episode, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell break down what LinkedIn is really good for and what people tend to overthink.Whether you're trying to grow your museum career, build your professional reputation, transition out of the field, or simply understand why everyone seems obsessed with LinkedIn, this episode covers the practical strategies that actually matter.They discuss:why LinkedIn is less about being discovered and more about being seenhow museum professionals use LinkedIn differently than many other industriesnetworking tips that don't feel transactional or awkwardhow to make your profile stronger without spending hours updating itusing LinkedIn as a research and job search toolpersonal branding without becoming a "thought leader"and why you probably don't need LinkedIn PremiumThey also cover:profile headlines and About sectionsnetworking messages that actually get responsesusing LinkedIn to explore new industriesfollowing companies and professionals strategicallythe Featured section and portfolio contentand why "Easy Apply" isn't always your friendThroughout the episode, they come back to one core idea:You don't need to become a LinkedIn influencer.You just need a profile that tells a clear story about who you are, what you do, and where you're headed.🔑 Key TakeawaysLinkedIn is often more valuable as a networking and research tool than a recruiting tool for museum professionals.You are the curator of your own LinkedIn algorithm, engage with the content you want to see more of.Following people and companies strategically can improve both networking opportunities and job discovery.Thoughtful connection requests outperform generic networking messages.Personal branding doesn't require posting every day or becoming a content creator.Your headline and About section are opportunities to tell a story, not just list job titles.Museum professionals looking to leave the field should focus on translating (not hiding) their experience.Most people are paying far less attention to your profile changes than you think.LinkedIn Premium is rarely necessary."Easy Apply" should be approached with caution.⏱ Chapters00:00 Welcome to LinkedIn Baddie School02:00 Love it or hate it: our honest LinkedIn opinions10:00 You are the curator of your algorithm13:00 How museum professionals actually use LinkedIn17:00 Networking without being weird24:00 Informational interviews and career exploration29:00 Personal branding without becoming an influencer33:00 What kind of content should you post?40:00 How to translate your profile for a career change43:00 Headlines, banners, and About sections52:00 What belongs in your experience section?56:00 Job searching on LinkedIn1:00:00 Why Easy Apply can be a trap
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  23. Why Your Cover Letter Isn't Working (And What to Do About It) 03.06.2026 44min

  If writing a cover letter feels like staring at a blank screen while questioning every career decision you've ever made... you're not alone.In this episode, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell tackle one of the most frustrating parts of the job application process: the cover letter.Because despite what many job seekers hope, a cover letter isn't just a formality. In museums especially, it can be the difference between getting an interview and getting passed over.The problem?Most people were never actually taught how to write an effective cover letter. Instead, they rely on outdated templates, generic examples, or end up treating the cover letter like a second resume.Throughout the conversation, Elin and Alli break down:why cover letters feel so overwhelming in the first placethe biggest mistakes they see museum professionals makingwhy your cover letter is not a resume in paragraph formhow storytelling can strengthen your applicationand why hiring managers are not going to "connect the dots" for youThey also dive into:how to identify the most important themes in a job descriptionwhy you should focus on a few strong examples instead of trying to include everythinghow to create reusable "core stories" that make future applications easierwhy your opening paragraph matters more than you thinkand how to explain career transitions and transferable skills more effectivelyOne of the biggest themes throughout the episode is the importance of answering a simple question:Why you? Why this job?Because the strongest cover letters don't just summarize experience. They help the hiring manager understand why you're a fit and envision you in the role. The goal is to make it obvious why you belong there.Whether you're applying for museum jobs, fellowships, internships, or trying to transition into a new role, this episode will help you rethink your cover letter strategy and approach applications with more confidence (and hopefully fewer tears).Chapters00:00 Why cover letters feel so hard01:45 What cover letters are actually supposed to do04:00 Why museum employers still care about cover letters07:00 Cover letter formatting and length10:00 The mistake of treating your cover letter like a resume12:00 Using storytelling to strengthen your application15:00 Building reusable "core stories"18:00 Balancing customization with application volume20:00 Why your opening paragraph matters22:00 Don't bury the lead24:00 Answering "Why you? Why this job?"28:00 Speaking directly to the job description31:00 Connecting the dots for hiring managers34:00 Showing impact through stories and examples37:00 The fine line between too vague and too detailed40:00 Cover letter alternatives and hiring trends42:00 Internships, fellowships, and statements of interest45:00 Final takeaways: clarity, storytelling, and alignmentKeywordsmuseum careerscover letter tipsmuseum cover lettersmuseum professionalsjob search strategymuseum job searchmuseum jobscareer transitionstransferable skillsmuseum internshipsmuseum fellowshipsjob applicationscareer coachingmuseum career coachcover letter mistakeshiring managersstorytelling in job applications
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  22. Live from the American Alliance of Museum Annual Conference: Special Mailbag Episode 27.05.2026 1h

  In this special live episode of Curate Your Career, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell take the podcast on the road to the American Alliance of Museums Annual Meeting for their very first live audience recording.What started as a shared idea between two internet friends became a candid, funny, and deeply honest conversation about the realities of museum careers and the questions museum professionals are actually asking behind the scenes.Using audience-submitted questions, Elin and Alli tackle topics including:toxic workplaces and difficult bossesleaving museum jobs without another role lined upnavigating specialization vs. being a museum “generalist”museum grad school and higher education realitiesresume strategy and transferable skillsjob searching outside the museum fieldnetworking (or “fellowshipping”)and how to build sustainable careers in and beyond museumsThey also discuss:the emotional realities of burnout and underemploymentwhy museum professionals often undersell their skillsthe importance of hands-on experience in today’s hiring marketand how career conversations in museums are often happening quietly behind the scenes instead of openly on conference stagesThroughout the episode, one thing becomes clear:👉 Museum professionals are incredibly skilled, adaptable, and resourceful👉 But many are navigating systems that make career growth and sustainability difficultThis live conversation creates space for honesty, nuance, and practical advice. Whether you want to stay in museums, leave museums, or simply feel less alone while figuring things out.And yes… there are also several references to fantasy romance novels, networking awkwardness, and museum people being “emotional scapegoats for the board.”⏱ Chapters00:00 Live from AAM: introducing the podcast03:00 Why we started Curate Your Career05:00 Grad school discourse and the 3-part series08:00 “Aching in the Archives” — feeling isolated in museum work15:00 Transitioning from archival work into public-facing roles16:00 Toxic bosses and leaving difficult workplaces20:00 References, reputation, and museum world politics24:00 Being a museum generalist vs specialist31:00 Career advice for museum studies students35:00 Grad school myths and “the hustle”38:00 Leaving museums for full-time work and stability44:00 Networking, LinkedIn, and building community46:00 Labor organizing and transferable skills49:00 Museum job boards and accessibility issues54:00 Elin’s career transition story57:00 Why these conversations matter🔍 Keywordsmuseum careersmuseum jobsmuseum professionalsmuseum burnoutmuseum grad schoolcareer transitionsmuseum networkingmuseum resumesmuseum job searchmuseum career adviceAAM conferencemuseum studies careerstransferable skillsleaving museums
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  21. Why Your Resume Isn’t Working (And What to Do About It) 13.05.2026 43min

  If you’ve been applying to jobs, getting auto-rejected, or hearing absolutely nothing back… this episode is for you.Elin Filbey and Alli Schell break down the biggest resume mistakes they see museum professionals making and why so many resumes fail before a hiring manager even seriously looks at them.Because most of the time, it’s not that you’re unqualified.It’s a strategy issue. It’s a communication issue. Or your resume simply isn’t making it easy for someone to understand why you’re a fit.Throughout the conversation, they unpack:why a resume is a marketing document, not a full record of your careerthe difference between resumes and CVshow museum professionals often write for the wrong audienceand why hiring managers are not going to “connect the dots” for youThey also dive into:tailoring resumes to specific job “lanes” instead of sending the same one everywherewhy focusing only on tasks (instead of impact) hurts your applicationshow to better communicate scope, leadership, and responsibilityand why so many museum professionals undersell the complexity of what they actually doThe episode also tackles one of the most common areas of confusion in today’s job market:ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)Elin and Alli explain:why overly designed templates often backfirewhy Canva/Etsy-style resumes can create technical issueswhat actually makes a resume easy for both humans and software to readand why “standing out” visually is outdated advice in a digital hiring landscapeThroughout the episode, they come back to one core idea:The goal of your resume is not to sound impressive.It’s to make it obvious why you’re a fit for the role.If your resume hasn’t been getting traction lately, this episode will help you step back, rethink your strategy, and understand what might actually be getting in the way.**If you want to meet up with Elin and Alli at AAM in Philly, fill out this short form to be included in updates on where we'll be.Chapters00:00 Why resumes get auto-rejected02:00 Resume myths and “standing out” advice03:30 A resume is a marketing document05:00 Resume vs CV: what’s the difference?08:00 One page? Two pages? Resume length debates13:00 Who are you actually writing for?15:00 Tailoring for museum vs non-museum audiences18:00 Why you need to “connect the dots”20:00 Don’t bury the lead: highlighting relevant experience23:00 Tasks vs impact in bullet points28:00 Showing scope, outcomes, and responsibility31:00 ATS systems and resume formatting mistakes35:00 Why Canva/Etsy templates can hurt your applications38:00 Keyword stuffing vs strategic alignment39:00 Why generic resumes don’t work43:00 Leadership resumes and organizing complex experience45:00 Final takeaways: clarity, strategy, and alignmentKeywordsmuseum careersmuseum resumesresume tipsmuseum professionalsATS resume tipsjob search strategymuseum job searchcareer transitionsresume formattingtransferable skillsmuseum jobsresume mistakescareer coachingmuseum career coach
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  20. When Leaving Isn’t a Choice: Chronic Illness, Motherhood, and Letting Go of a Museum Career 06.05.2026 58min

  Leaving the museum field is often framed as a choice.Better pay. Better work-life balance. A new career path.But sometimes… it’s not a choice at all.In this episode, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell talk with Sam McLaren-Fahey about what it looks like to leave museum work because life requires it, not because you want to.Sam spent years working in museum education and nonprofit programming before transitioning into real estate. But her decision to leave the field wasn’t about career growth or dissatisfaction with the work.It was shaped by:chronic illnessphysical limitationsbecoming a parentand needing to build a life that was actually sustainableThis conversation gets into what that looked like in real time, including navigating years of undiagnosed illness, pushing through work while her health declined, and ultimately having to make a decision she didn’t feel ready for.They also talk about:the emotional impact of losing your professional identitywhat it means to grieve a career you lovedand how museum work can stay with you—even after you leaveSam shares what it was like to:move from a physically demanding museum role into more sustainable worknavigate job loss during maternity leaveand eventually build a new career in real estate—one that still reflects her values around education, empathy, and helping peopleThroughout the conversation, one thing becomes very clear:👉 Leaving doesn’t mean you stopped caring👉 And it doesn’t mean that part of you is goneIt just means something in your life needed to change.This episode is for anyone who has ever felt like they were pushed out of a career they loved or had to make a decision they weren’t ready to make.⏱ Chapters00:00 When leaving isn’t a choice02:00 Sam’s background in museums and education05:00 Early health challenges and undiagnosed illness08:00 Working through severe physical decline12:00 Medical gaslighting and finally getting answers17:00 Adjusting roles and leaving museum work20:00 Losing professional identity25:00 Becoming a parent during a pandemic28:00 Forced career break and mental health challenges32:00 Finding real estate (and why it made sense)36:00 Building a new career from scratch41:00 Transferable museum skills in a new field46:00 Collaboration vs competition in different industries50:00 Money, value, and mindset shifts55:00 What Sam still misses about museum work58:00 Flexibility, health, and redefining success1:00:00 Advice for people navigating similar situations🔍 Keywordsmuseum careersleaving museumscareer transitionsmuseum professionalschronic illness and worknonprofit careerscareer identityworking with chronic illnessmuseum education careerscareer change stories
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  19. Museum Grad School Series (Part 3 of 3): Alternatives & What the Field Gets Wrong 29.04.2026 55min

  If you’ve made it this far in the series, you’re probably sitting with a big question:If I don’t go to grad school… what are my options?In Part 3 of this series, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell break down what it actually looks like to build a museum career without relying on a graduate degree and why that path is more viable (and necessary) than the field often acknowledges.Because while museum grad school is often presented as the “next step,” the reality is: it’s not the only pathit’s not always the most effective pathand it’s definitely not a guarantee of a jobThis episode explores:how the museum field has shifted (but expectations haven’t kept up)which roles actually require degrees and which don’thow to use job descriptions to reverse-engineer your career path and necessary education and how to identify the difference between “required” vs. “preferred” qualificationsThey also get candid about where the field itself needs to do better... from over-reliance on degrees to lack of training, inaccessible internships, and unrealistic hiring expectations.Because this isn’t just an individual problem. It’s a structural one.🔑 Key TakeawaysThere is no single path into or within museum careers even if it’s often presented that wayA graduate degree is not a “silver bullet” and does not guarantee a jobMany roles value hands-on experience more than degreesJob descriptions are your best data source. Look for patterns, not one-offs“Required” vs. “preferred” qualifications matter when evaluating rolesYou can build skills through targeted, lower-cost alternatives instead of full degree programsTransferable skills (project management, communication, collaboration) are highly valuable across rolesIf you’re investing time in learning, you need to reflect that on your resumeThe museum field still has major gaps in training, accessibility, and hiring practicesChoosing not to go to grad school is not opting out, it’s choosing a different strategy⏱ Chapters00:00 Where you might be after Parts 1 & 202:30 The disconnect between degrees and ROI05:00 The “grad school or nothing” mindset08:00 How the field has shifted (but expectations haven’t)12:00 Roles that do require degrees15:30 Starting with job descriptions (your data set)20:00 Identifying patterns: requirements vs preferences24:00 Using AI, spreadsheets, or manual tracking28:00 Certifications and targeted training programs34:00 Webinars and free/low-cost learning39:00 Libraries, online learning platforms, and YouTube45:00 Transferable skills and broad skill-building52:00 Strategic volunteering as professional development55:00 Internships and fellowships (and their limitations)59:00 Mentorship, networking, and informational interviews1:03:00 Conferences, vendors, and hidden opportunities1:06:00 Where the field needs to do better1:12:00 Rethinking grad programs (trade school model)1:18:00 Final reframes and decision-making🔍 Keywords museum careersmuseum grad school alternativesmuseum jobsmuseum professionalscareer development museumsmuseum education careerstransferable skillsmuseum job search strategyGLAM careersprofessional developmentmuseum internshipscareer transitions
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  18. Museum Grad School Series. Part 2 of 3: How to Evaluate a Program 22.04.2026 48min

  If you’re considering museum grad school, this is the episode where things get real.In Part 1, we talked about whether grad school makes sense in the first place.In this episode, we’re assuming you are considering it and walking through how to actually evaluate programs so you can make a smart, informed decision.Because here’s the truth:Grad school is not just an academic decision. It’s a financial, professional, and strategic one.And not all programs are created equal.In this episode, we break down:how to approach grad school like a mutual selection process (you’re interviewing them, too)the questions you should be asking before committinghow to think about ROI (beyond just “getting a job”)what actually matters when comparing programsand where a lot of museum grad programs fall shortWe’re also very honest about something that doesn’t get talked about enough: Many museum grad programs are revenue generators for universities.Which means you need to approach this as an informed consumer... asking for data, not just vibes.This episode is here to help you slow down, ask better questions, and make a decision that actually aligns with your goals.🔑 Key TakeawaysGrad school should be evaluated based on what you want to get out of it... not what the field says you “should” doYou should approach programs like a two-way interview, asking clear and specific questionsROI matters and that includes cost, time, lost income, and realistic salary expectationsLocation can significantly impact your access to internships, networks, and job opportunitiesOnline programs can work but often require you to create your own hands-on experienceInternships are critical, but not always built into programs in a meaningful wayNot all programs provide career support tailored to the museum fieldAlumni networks and faculty connections can be one of the most valuable parts of a programYou are often paying for access and networks, not just courseworkTransferable skills matter both inside and outside the museum field⏱ Chapters00:00 Why you need Part 1 before this02:30 Treating grad school like an interview04:00 What do you actually want out of a program?07:00 Using job descriptions to guide your decision10:00 Location, cost of living, and opportunity access13:00 Online vs in-person programs16:00 “Be a smart consumer”: programs as revenue generators18:30 Time to completion + working while in school21:00 Financial realities (tuition, scholarships, hidden costs)24:00 Faculty connections and real-world experience28:00 Hands-on skills vs theory32:00 Internships: required, paid, and competitive37:00 Job placement transparency (what to ask programs)39:00 Career support: resumes, interviews, and beyond40:30 Alumni networks and long-term value42:00 Transferable skills (and why they matter more than you think)52:00 Final thoughts + how to make your decision🔍 Keywords museum grad schoolmuseum studies degreemuseum careersmuseum jobsgraduate school evaluationmuseum professionalscareer development museumsmuseum internshipsarts careersGLAM careersmuseum educationcareer strategy
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  17. Museum Grad School Series. Part 1 of 3: Should You Go? 15.04.2026 55min

  This is one of the most common questions in the museum field: Should I go to grad school?And the honest answer is… it’s complicated.In this first episode of a three-part series, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell break down what actually goes into that decision... beyond the default advice to “just get the degree.”Drawing from their own experiences (both GW grads), insights from the Museum Pros subreddit, LinkedIn conversations, and years of working with clients, they unpack:why this question is so emotionally loadedwhat museum grad school can offer (and what it can’t)the reality of salaries, competition, and job marketshow much of grad school is really about access and networkswhere programs often fall short (hint: career prep and real-world skills)and the biggest question you should be asking yourself before applyingThey also talk candidly about:the pressure to “do the right thing”the financial reality (and tradeoffs) of grad schooland why a master’s degree does not guarantee a jobThis episode isn’t here to tell you yes or no.It’s here to help you make a smarter, more informed decision.👉 Part 2 will cover how to evaluate grad programs👉 Part 3 will explore alternatives to grad school🔑 Key TakeawaysMuseum grad school is often presented as the default path but the reality is far more complexA degree does not guarantee a job, especially in a competitive, low-salary fieldWhat you’re really paying for is often access, networks, and opportunities, not just knowledgeMany programs are too theoretical and don’t adequately prepare students for the job marketHands-on experience (internships, projects, portfolios) is critical early in your career, when pivoting, or when trying to move up in the fieldThe financial ROI of grad school is often unclear or limitedYour location and target job market can influence whether a degree is necessaryThe most important question isn’t “Should I go?”→ It’s: “What am I trying to get out of this?”⏱ Chapters00:00 DC food nostalgia + intro06:40 Why this became a 3-part series08:00 Why “Should I go to grad school?” is everywhere10:30 Why this question is so complicated14:00 The reality of museum jobs (salary, competition, structure)17:00 What grad school doesn’t prepare you for18:30 Alli’s experience: expectations vs reality22:30 Elin’s path to grad school29:00 Alli’s path + pressure to pursue a master’s33:30 What you actually get from grad school36:00 The power of networks + “GW mafia”40:00 Hands-on skills vs theory44:00 When grad school is necessary (specific roles)48:00 Where programs fall short52:00 Real-world skills you actually need54:30 Financial reality + ROI59:00 Location, access, and strategy1:01:00 The question you should actually be asking1:02:30 Preview of Part 2🔍 Keywordsmuseum grad schoolmuseum studies degreemuseum careersmuseum jobsshould I go to grad schoolmuseum professionalscareer transitions museumsmuseum education careersgraduate school decisionarts careersGLAM careersmuseum job market
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  16. Museums Run on Emotional Labor, But Why isn't it Valued? 08.04.2026 1h

  There’s a kind of work happening in museums that doesn’t show up in job descriptions, annual reports, or performance reviews, but it shapes everything.The way you calm a frustrated visitor, hold space for a volunteer going through a hard time, how you navigate conflict, or carry the emotional weight of your community.It’s the work beneath the work.In this episode of Curate Your Career, Alli Schell and Elin Filbey sit down with Ashley Witherspoon, licensed clinical social worker and founder of Handmade Dreams, LLC to talk about invisible, emotional labor and why museum work is far more complex than what we measure.Ashley shares how her background in healthcare led her into museums, what she sees as the biggest gaps in support for museum workers, and how we can begin to name, track, and advocate for the full scope of what this work actually requires.Together, they unpack:what emotional and invisible labor actually look like in museum roleswhy so much of this work goes unrecognized (and unsupported)how burnout in museums mirrors what we see in healthcarethe gaps in training, onboarding, and workplace preparationhow museum workers can start documenting and advocating for this laborand what it means to rethink “worth” beyond metrics and productivityIf you’ve ever felt like the hardest parts of your job are the ones no one sees, this episode will put language to that experience and give you a place to start.Learn more about Ashley's new initiative, MuseMind! Key TakeawaysEmotional and invisible labor are core parts of museum work, not “extra” tasksThe most impactful work museum professionals do often isn’t reflected in metricsBurnout isn’t just about workload. it’s about unrecognized and unsupported laborMuseums tend to operate reactively instead of proactively when it comes to staff wellbeingTraining is a major gap across the fieldYou can begin advocating for yourself by documenting the labor that happens “below the waterline”Worth is not something you earn through productivity, it’s something you already haveSmall shifts (like naming this work in meetings or reviews) can lead to larger systemic changeRest, boundaries, and recovery time are not luxuries, they’re necessary for sustainabilityMuseum workers are deeply embedded in their communities and carry that impact both inside and outside of workChapters00:00 The Talk That Sparked This Episode03:00 Ashley’s Path from Healthcare to Museums08:00 Museums as Spaces for Connection + Care13:00 Defining Emotional and Invisible Labor18:00 The Iceberg: What’s Above vs. Below the Surface24:00 Burnout, Turnover, and Lack of Support30:00 Why Museums Are Always “Chasing Fires”36:00 Training Gaps and Frontline Staff Realities42:00 Making Invisible Labor Visible (and Measurable)48:00 Rethinking Worth Beyond Metrics55:00 Stop, Start, Continue: Practical Strategies1:02:00 Rest, Boundaries, and Recovery Time1:07:00 What Museums Can Learn from Healthcare1:12:00 Ashley’s Work + Museum Wellness Guide Keywordsmuseum careersmuseum professionalsemotional laborinvisible labormuseum burnoutmuseum workplace culturemuseum jobscareer sustainabilitymuseum leadershipworkplace wellbeingmuseum training gapsmuseum advocacymuseum workforce
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  15. What If You Didn’t Leave the Objects, Just the Museum? Ryan's Story. 01.04.2026 59min

  A few weeks ago, Elin shared a LinkedIn post about an alternative career path for museum professionals... and it struck a nerve.What if you could keep working with objects… just not in a museum?In this episode of Curate Your Career, Elin Filbey and Alli Schell sit down with Ryan Jelso, a former curator at The Henry Ford, who pivoted into estate services, appraisal, and personal collections work.Ryan shares what it actually looked like to leave a respected curatorial role, navigate the identity shift, and build a new career that still centers material culture, just in a completely different context.Together, they unpack:what museum professionals often misunderstand about their own skillshow working with “the stuff” translates outside institutional settingswhat it takes to break into estate services and appraisal workand why this field is poised for major growth in the coming decadesThey also talk honestly about what it means to leave a “dream job,” the grief that can come with that decision, and how to recognize when something isn’t the right fit anymore.If you’ve ever thought, “I love working with objects, but I’m not sure museums are sustainable for me long-term,” this episode will open your eyes to a path you may not have considered.🔑 Key TakeawaysMuseum skills like research, object interpretation, and inventory management are highly transferable outside the fieldYou don’t have to leave the work you love. Sometimes you just change the contextIdentity is one of the hardest parts of leaving museum workWaiting too long to explore other options can lead to burnout and loss of confidenceEstate services, appraisal, and secondhand markets are growing industries due to generational wealth transferNetworking doesn’t have to be complicated. In-person connection and follow-up matterMuseum professionals often undervalue their ability to see the bigger picture and connect multiple stakeholdersYou can still be a steward of history and material culture outside a museum setting⏱ Chapters00:00 The LinkedIn Post That Sparked This Episode03:00 Ryan’s Museum Career at The Henry Ford10:00 What He Loved About Curatorial Work13:00 When Discontent Started Creeping In18:00 Identity, Grief, and Leaving a “Dream Job”24:00 Realizing a Mismatch in Work Style29:00 Discovering Estate Services & Reselling32:00 How He Actually Made the Pivot36:00 Transferable Skills That Mattered Most42:00 Finding Meaning in a New Role46:00 Money, Growth, and Career Ceiling in Museums50:00 Advice for Leaving (Before You Hit Burnout)57:00 Do You Miss Museums? Would You Go Back?1:00:00 How to Explore This Career Path🔍 Keywordsmuseum careersmuseum professionalscareer transitionsmuseum jobsestate servicesappraisal careerstransferable skillsleaving museumsalternative careers museumsworking with objectscareer pivotmaterial culture
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  14. Mail Bag #3 25.03.2026 40min

  In this third Mail Bag episode, Alli Schell and Elin Filbey answer listener questions about navigating early vs. mid-career roles, breaking into (or moving up within) the museum field, and what it really takes to stand out in today’s job market.They unpack the nuance behind “Am I qualified enough?”, especially for those with transferable skills and dive into the realities of freelancing and consulting in museums. The conversation also tackles one of the most common frustrations in the field: work-life balance. Finally, they break down what’s really happening in final-round interviews when you're not landing the offer.Whether you’re trying to level up, pivot into museums, explore independent work, or finally land the role you keep getting close to, this episode is for you.Ask a Mailbag Question:https://forms.gle/m41nnxPS4TKXQ1i89TakeawaysUnderstanding the difference between early and mid-career roles can shape your job search strategyTransferable skills need to be clearly translated to connect the dots for hiring managersFreelancing and consulting requires market awarenessWork-life balance is often a top need of workers in the fieldFraming workplace challenges in terms of organizational impact can drive changeFinal-round interviews often come down to storytelling, clarity, and fitKnowing your “why” helps differentiate you from equally qualified candidatesAligning with an organization’s values and culture is critical in hiring decisionsSoft skills (communication, storytelling, presence) are key to interview successFeedback, reflection, and practice are essential for growth in the job searchChapters00:00 Introduction and Mailbag Overview03:30 Early vs. Mid-Career: Where Do I Fit?10:45 Transferable Skills & “Translation Work”20:15 Freelancing & Consulting in Museums32:10 Work-Life Balance & Weekend Burnout42:30 Final Round Interviews: What’s Missing?52:00 Building Skills & Standing OutKeywords:museum careers, museum professionals, career transitions, transferable skills, museum jobs, freelancing, consulting, work-life balance, interview tips, job search strategy, museum education, professional development, networking, career coaching