Scott Allis, experienced ESL teacher and travel creator, joins Laura to share hard-won lessons from a global teaching career that spans China, Iraq, Thailand and beyond. In this candid conversation, Scott unpacks five key things to check before signing a contract—and what to do when the job doesn’t match what was promised. Whether you're teaching abroad, considering your next move, or advising others on job offers, this episode is packed with practical advice and relatable stories to help you make informed career decisions.

Watch with closed captions.

TALKING POINTS

1. What Looks Good on Paper Isn’t Always the Right Fit: Scott reflects on contracts that promised the world, but delivered far less—and how to read between the lines.
2. What Scott Checks Before Signing: From checking the exit clause to aligning work expectations with your lifestyle.
3. Knowing Your Priorities: Why your dealbreakers matter more than rankings or salaries.
4. Tips for Confident Negotiation: How to ask for what you need—without feeling like you’re being difficult.

ABOUT

Scottie is an experienced ESL teacher with over ten years of teaching in places like Wuhan and Baghdad, currently based in Bangkok, Thailand. Today, he shares five essential lessons on finding the right contract as an ESL teacher—focusing on what works for your lifestyle, not just what looks best on paper. Alongside his teaching, Scottie creates mindful adventure travel content on Instagram and will soon launch YouTube content. Follow Scott on Instagram: @scottallis

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CREDITS

Producer: Laura Wilkes

Editor: Haven Tsang

Special thanks to our guest, Scott Allis

Production by Communicating for Impact

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.