Reclaiming Rest & Thriving Beyond Burnout with Amanda Miller Littlejohn

This episode challenges us to reflect: What traits define us? Who are we outside of productivity?

In this deeply affirming conversation, Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Amanda Miller Littlejohnexecutive coach, journalist, and author of The Rest Revolutionto unpack burnout, identity, and the systems that pressure Black educators to overperform at the expense of their wellness. Together, they explore how the culture of overachievement, often masked as Black excellence, can be a trauma response, and why rest is personal and political.

Amanda shares her story of hitting a wall during the pandemic, discovering that when her creativity disappeared, it was her bodys cry for help. With heartfelt wisdom, Amanda urges educators to reconnect with what brings them joy, pursue radical self-knowledge, and lean into community care as a form of wealth and resilience.

Whether you're an educator on the brink or an ally seeking to support Black professionals, this episode is a powerful reminder: we dont have to earn our restwe were always worthy of it.

First of all.... have you signed up for our newsletter, Black Educators, Be Well?  Why wait?  

Amidst all the conversations about recruiting Black educators, where are the discussions about retention? The Exit Interview podcast was created to elevate the stories of Black educators who have been pushed out of the classroom and central office while experiencing racism-related stress and racial battle fatigue.

The Exit Interview Podcast is for current and former Black educators. It is also for school districts, teachers' unions, families, and others interested in better understanding the challenges of retaining Black people in education.

Please enjoy the episode.

Peace out,

Dr. Asia Lyons