Episodes

When the school nurse has to check your blood pressure three times, you know you're in trouble. In this episode of the 'Exit Interview' podcast, I archive the story of Dr. LaShaune Stitt. Dr. Stitt recounts her journey from childhood dreams of teaching to pioneering spaces for young men of Color, and the community-centered approaches that defined her work. Amidst these achievements, she opens up about the health crises and systemic challenges that led her to leave formal education. Our discussion touches on the critical support from women in her professional community, her experiences with racial battle fatigue, and the vital importance of therapy and self-care for Black educators. We delve into the significance of culturally responsive teaching environments and Dr. Stitt's current consulting work, emphasizing the broad, impactful ways educators can contribute to their communities beyond traditional classroom roles.

In this episode of The Exit Interview, host Dr. Asia Lyons engages in a deep conversation with Octavia Raheem about the transformative power of rest. Octavia Raheem, an accomplished author, rest restorative coach, and former public school teacher, shares her journey from traditional education to becoming a leader in wellness and restorative practices. The discussion explores the importance of rest for Black educators, the systemic challenges they face, and the necessity of self-care. Raheem passionately discusses the interplay between creativity, rest, and holistic well-being, offering practical steps for educators to integrate rest into their lives. Make sure to order her new book, Rest Is Sacred: Reclaiming Our Brilliance Through the Practice of Stillness.

In this episode of The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators, Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Kwame Sarfo-Mensah and discusses his transformative journey from aspiring professional athlete to dedicated educator. Kwame discusses his initial pivot to becoming a math teacher and the various challenges he faced in his early teaching years, including a lack of support and job security in Philadelphia charter schools. Moving to Boston, he navigated the complexities of unionized school districts, ultimately learning the importance of self-care to avoid burnout and racial battle fatigue. This episode highlights systemic issues in education, such as the exploitation of committed Black educators and the importance of acknowledging their experiences. Reflecting on his time in Philadelphia, Kwame emphasizes the need for better support systems and career pathways for Black educators. His journey extends internationally as he moves to Sierra Leone, initiating the 'Identity Talk for Educators Live…

In this episode of 'The Exit Interview, a podcast for Black educators,' Dr. Asia Lyons hosts Shatiera Porte'e, a school counselor, author, coach, and education consultant. Shatiera shares her experiences working tirelessly in education during the COVID pandemic, reflecting on the challenging conditions that led to burnout and her decision to leave traditional education spaces. The discussion highlights the systemic issues Black educators face, such as overwork and lack of compensation, and underscores the need for mental health support within the education system. Shatiera talks about her current role as the founder of 'School Counselors on Wheels,' where she mentors students and educators, emphasizing mental wellness in education. She also introduces her self-help book 'I Forgive Myself for Forgetting Myself,' which aims to promote self-care among service professionals. Throughout the episode, Shatiera pays tribute to influential Black educators who impacted her life, expressing grat…

In this episode of The Exit Interview, Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Sarah Graham, founder of Lessons in Liberation, for a candid and insightful conversation about the realities of being a Black educator. The two discuss their journeys into education, the challenges and joys of teaching in nontraditional and special education settings, and the importance of culturally responsive curriculum. Sarah shares her experiences working in group homes, day treatment centers, and charter schools, highlighting systemic issues, the need for authentic support, and the emotional labor required of Black educators. The episode also explores the impact of burnout, the necessity of rest and sabbaticals, and Sarah’s current work developing liberatory, intersectional curriculum and training for schools and organizations. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities facing Black educators and the ongoing fight for equity and liberation in education.

In this episode of The Exit Interview, hosted by Dr. Asia Lyons, Julia Berry shares her transformative journey from wanting to be a teacher, doctor, and dancer as a child to becoming an educator focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Julia outlines her path from excelling in math and engineering, realizing her passion for teaching, to teaching youth in correctional and treatment facilities. She discusses the challenges she faced with leadership due to her bold approach to DEI work. Julia touches upon the impact of race and supremacy on educational settings and emphasizes the importance of leadership involvement in DEI efforts. After leaving several roles due to systemic resistance to change, she finally finds alignment with her values at a community-based organization rooted in ancient African philosophy. The conversation delves into the personal and professional grief Julia encountered, her methods of self-care, and the joy she finds in her children, gardening, and yoga p…

In this episode of The Exit Interview, host Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Langston Jacobs to explore his journey through education, from substitute teaching to school leadership. Langston shares candid reflections on his early days as a guest teacher, the challenges and rewards of connecting with students—especially those often overlooked or labeled as “troublesome”—and his transition into special education and later, a dean of culture at charter schools. The conversation delves into the systemic barriers Black educators face, including lack of mentorship, the emotional toll of disciplinary roles, and the impact of school culture on both educators and their families. Langston opens up about the personal cost of his work, describing how stress and the demands of leadership affected his health and family life, ultimately leading him to step away from traditional education. Now, as co-founder and director of Men and Youth Programs at Adam’s Purpose, Langston focuses on healing and …

In this episode of The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators, host Dr. Asia sits down with Dr. Jason Shankle, a Denver-based therapist, educator, and author, for a deeply insightful conversation about racial battle fatigue, Black mental health, and the importance of culturally competent care. Dr. Shankle shares his educational journey from HBCU to doctoral studies, his experiences as a Black male therapist, and the challenges faced by Black students and professionals in predominantly white institutions. The discussion explores the concept of “energetic assault” in affinity spaces, the necessity of naming and understanding racialized experiences, and the toll that systemic racism takes on mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Shankle offers practical strategies for healing, including daily rituals, creating sacred spaces, journaling, and setting emotional boundaries. He also provides guidance on finding the right therapist and emphasizes the value of proactive, rather than re…

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons hosts Asha von Liebtug, an inspiring educator from New Jersey, who shares her journey from student to teacher and beyond. Asha delves into the impact of her grandmother's influence, her teaching experiences in various educational settings, and her passion for curriculum development. She emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and holistic education, while also addressing the systemic challenges faced by Black educators. Tune in to gain insights on educational equity, teacher retention, and personal growth.

In this episode of "The Exit Interview," host Dr. Asia welcomes Dr. Adrienne Smith, an educator whose journey spans from humble beginnings in Virginia to teaching in Alaska and beyond. Dr. Smith shares her early dreams of teaching, the challenges she faced as a first-generation college student, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career—including working in fast food, becoming a substitute teacher, and navigating multiple college transfers due to accreditation issues. The conversation delves into Dr. Smith’s bold decision to move to Alaska, a choice made with her partner after a literal coin toss. She recounts her experiences as a special education teacher, the hurdles of certification, and the life skills she gained while living in a remote community. Dr. Smith also discusses the complexities of code-switching, the impact of family support (or lack thereof), and the realities of being a Black educator in predominantly white and Black spaces. After returning to the East Coas…

In this episode of The Exit Interview Podcast, host Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Brittney Carey, an early childhood education (ECE) advocate and founder of Conscious Pathways. Brittney shares her personal journey into education, inspired by a transformative third-grade teacher, and discusses the unique challenges and rewards of working in early childhood settings. The conversation delves into the undervaluation of ECE professionals—particularly Black women—highlighting issues of low pay, burnout, and limited career mobility. Brittney and Dr. Asia explore the critical role ECE educators play in child development, the need for higher standards and respect in the field, and the systemic barriers that disproportionately impact women of color. Brittney also addresses exclusionary discipline practices, the concept of “soft expulsion,” and offers advice for parents advocating for their children. The episode concludes with Brittney reflecting on her transition to education consulting, her passion …

In this episode of "Exit Interview," host Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Vanity Jenkins, an accomplished educator, DEI consultant, and former executive director of a charter school. Vanity shares her journey from aspiring sports manager to passionate educator, inspired by a college course that revealed the deep systemic challenges facing Black and Latino students. She recounts her experiences teaching in the Mississippi Delta, emphasizing the importance of understanding local context and history, and the unique challenges Black educators face—even in predominantly Black communities. Vanity discusses her transition from classroom teaching to leadership roles, including coaching, recruitment, and eventually founding a charter school focused on restorative justice and community engagement. She candidly addresses the difficulties of sustaining such schools amid funding inequities and the broader politics of education. The conversation delves into the historical loss of Black educator…

In this episode, of the Exit Interview, host Dr. Asia Lyons speaks with Sherinda Bryant, a former educator, about her journey and experiences in the field and love for Afrofuturism. They delve into the challenges faced by Black educators, the need for supporting Black students, and the creation of Bryant's Afrofuturism Discovery Academy. The conversation highlights the emotional and systemic hurdles in education, as well as innovative approaches to culturally responsive teaching and identity development.

In this episode of The Exit Interview Podcast, Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Jalisa Evans, an educator and organizer, to discuss her journey and advocacy for Black educators. Jalisa shares her unconventional path into teaching, initially aspiring to be a doctor before joining Teach for America and discovering her passion for education. She recounts her experiences teaching in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Los Angeles, highlighting the systemic challenges Black students and educators face, including literacy gaps, under-resourced schools, and anti-Blackness within educational institutions. Jalisa describes her transition from classroom teaching to organizing, where she played a pivotal role in securing funding for neglected schools and advocating for better conditions. She emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and collective action in driving change. The conversation delves into the retention crisis among Black educators, the need for school districts and unions to address …

In this heartfelt episode of The Exit Interview, host Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Stacey Taylor-Brandon, a seasoned former school district social worker and passionate advocate for Black women’s wellness. They focus on the unique experiences of mature Black women in education, the importance of rest and joy, and building supportive communities. Dr. Lyons begins by acknowledging the challenges Black women face in educational systems and introduces the podcast’s goal: to preserve the stories of Black educators who have left traditional education roles. During Mental Health Month, the discussion centers on wellness, with Stacey sharing her transition from a 28-year career in education to supporting mature Black women. Stacey shares her experience of “racial battle fatigue” and her decision to leave her district. She talks about the emotional aftermath, including time for rest and self-reflection, which inspired her to create spaces—both virtual and in person—for Black women to connect,…

In this episode of "The Exit Interview," hosts Dr. Asia and Kev welcome Benita Gordon, an experienced educator and founder of Global Education Concierge. Benita shares her journey from a family of educators, her initial reluctance to teach, and her eventual calling to the profession. She discusses her early teaching experiences in rural Virginia, the importance of community support, and the unique challenges and joys of teaching both elementary and middle school students. Benita reflects on her leadership roles, the significance of mentorship, and the need for Black students to see themselves represented in their teachers. She addresses systemic issues affecting Black educator retention, such as workplace microaggressions, financial hardships, and lack of respect for the teaching profession. The conversation also explores the broader teacher shortage and the importance of school culture, climate, and genuine support for educators. In the second half, Benita highlights her curren…

In this episode of "The Exit Interview," Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Brittany Dawson, a former educator who transitioned from teaching to leadership coaching and entrepreneurship. Brittany shares her journey from aspiring doctor to passionate English teacher, describing how volunteering with young students inspired her to change her career path. She discusses the challenges she faced as a Black educator, including the emotional labor, financial struggles, and moments of self-doubt—especially when dealing with unsupportive parents and systemic barriers in education. Brittany explains her decision to leave the classroom after four years, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when it's time to move on and how to leverage teaching experience for new opportunities. She highlights the value of mentorship, building leadership skills, and not being limited by traditional career paths in education. Now the founder and CEO of Brittany Dawson Coaching, she supports individuals and organizat…

In this inspiring episode of The Exit Interview, we have the privilege of hearing from Elia Martin, a former educator and social worker turned grant manager, who shares her transformative journey through education, social work, and beyond. Elia's story takes us from her initial dreams of becoming a dentist to finding her true calling in supporting youth and families, mostly in Black communities. She discusses the challenges and motivations behind her career shifts, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, the impact of leadership changes, and the quest for better opportunities. Elia also delves into her current pursuits, including her work in grant management and her passion project, the Mommyana podcast, dedicated to the experiences of Black motherhood. Join us as we explore Elia's journey, her insights on Black educator retention, and her valuable advice for those contemplating a career transition.

In this episode of "Exit Interview," host Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Jailyn Jenkins, an educator and advocate dedicated to equity, belonging, and joy in STEM education. Jailyn shares her journey from teaching math and science in Phoenix and Denver to becoming an instructional coach, district facilitator, and manager at the Public Education and Business Coalition (PEBC). She discusses the challenges of being a Black woman in education, the emotional toll of burnout, and the difficult decision to step away from the classroom for her own well-being. Jailyn opens up about the grief and anxiety she experienced while leaving teaching, the importance of prioritizing mental health, and the healing power of taking a sabbatical. She describes her solo travels, including a transformative visit to a lavender farm and time spent in Hawaii, which helped her rediscover joy and clarity before starting her next role. The conversation also addresses systemic issues in retaining Black educators, emph…

In this episode of the Exit Interview podcast, host Dr. Asia Lyons welcomes Dr. Cletis Allen, an educational thought leader with over 13 years of experience in teaching, curriculum development, and educational consulting. Dr. Allen shares her unique journey into education, starting with an initial interest in nursing before discovering her passion for teaching and advocacy. Dr. Allen discusses her teaching career in Georgia, working with early elementary students and high ESOL populations, and her transition into curriculum writing and professional development. She highlights the importance of culturally responsive literacy instruction and her doctoral research on the interconnectedness of content, teachers, learners, and learning spaces. The conversation explores Dr. Allen’s decision to leave the classroom and pursue consulting, the challenges and support she encountered from family and colleagues, and the broader context of Black educators navigating career transitions. Dr. Al…

In this episode, of the Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators Yasha Chapman, an accomplished Black educator and CEO of Elementary Education Evolved, shares her experiences and insights about the challenges faced by Black educators and the importance of retaining them in the field of teaching. Yasha discusses her journey in education, from initially wanting to be a pharmacist to becoming a classroom teacher and eventually an instructional coach. She emphasizes the need to amplify the voices of Black educators, involve them in decision-making processes, and compensate them for their expertise. Yasha's consultancy, Elementary Education Evolved, focuses on providing professional development and coaching for new teachers and aims to close the academic achievement gap for Black and Brown students in the K-5 setting. This episode offers valuable insights and strategies for school districts, human resources departments, and school unions to better retain Black educators and create a m…

In this weeks compelling episode, we speak with Dr. Asia Lyons, CEO of Lyons Educational Consulting, co-facilitator of the Black Educator Wellness Cohort, and co-host of The Exit Interview Podcast. With experiences spanning Detroit to Denver, Dr. Lyons shares her journey, from attending a gifted high school and navigating failure in college, to shedding light on the critical role of community colleges and nontraditional pathways into education (#shoutout to those bus routes!).

After teaching in Atlanta's public schools, Brittni Joy had to make a choice, quit teaching or try her hand at teaching in the Middle East. Take a listen as she shares her experience as an educator both here and abroad, what she feels would improve schools in the United States and what she is up to now that she is back state side. In this enlightening episode of 'The Exit Interview', Dr. Asia Lyons and Kevin Adams talk with Brittni Joy about her vast teaching experience both domestically and internationally. Brittni Joy embraces the paradoxes of her journey and as a black educator, she covers the unique challenges that have shaped her career. Brittni shares captivating stories about her different teaching stints in the US and abroad, impressing with her vast insights about the teaching field. She sheds light on the structural issues deep-rooted in the American educational system, contrasting it with how she felt as a black woman teaching overseas, who was seen first and foremost a…