Videos

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 an…

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, ref…

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, emphasiz…

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. Allen …

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 as …

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Khiara “Mills” Mills, a licensed therapist and former school counselor, about her journey through education, mental health, and personal growth. Mills shares how setting boundaries became a cornerstone of her healing, both professionally and personally. She discusses the challenges of working in behavioral schools, the importance of self-care and core values, and how grief and resilience shaped her path. Listeners will gain practical insights on wellness, the power of boundaries, and supporting Black educators in schools. #healing #podcast

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Khiara Mills Mills, a licensed therapist and former school counselor, about her journey through education, mental health, and personal growth. Mills shares how setting boundaries became a cornerstone of her healing, both professionally and personally. She discusses the challenges of working in behavioral schools, the importance of self-care and core values, and how grief and resilience shaped her path. Listeners will gain practical insights on wellness, the power of boundaries, and supporting Black educators in schools.

What does it cost to teach with integrity in a system that demands your silence? In this powerful episode of The Exit Interview, Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Akil Parker, a former finance major turned math educator, tutor, and founder of All This Math, to explore his 20-year journey through classrooms, charter schools, and community spaces. Akil shares honest reflections on being pushed out of schools for challenging harmful norms, the emotional toll of being separated from students he deeply cared about, and the moment he realized he was no longer working for the system but for the kids. From surviving toxic school cultures to creating culturally rooted math content for families, Akil's story is both a warning and a call to action. Whether you're a Black educator facing similar challenges or someone interested in proper retention, this episode serves as a poignant reminder: real education centers on the child, not the institution. This is a video about For The Kids, Not The System …

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

In this episode, Dr. Asia welcomes Jeanine L. Williams, PhD (https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjeaninelwilliams/) , a retired educator turned ancestral medicine woman, for a powerful conversation about liberation, sovereignty, and healing beyond academia. Dr. Williams shares her journey through higher education, the challenges of navigating oppressive systems, and the importance of community care and ancestral wisdom. Together, they discuss the need for Black educators to reclaim their wholeness, set boundaries, and embrace self-care. The episode offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone seeking healing, empowerment, and a deeper connection to their roots.

In this episode, I welcome Jeanine L. Williams, PhD, a retired educator turned ancestral medicine woman, for a powerful conversation about liberation, sovereignty, and healing beyond academia. Dr. Williams shares her journey through higher education, the challenges of navigating oppressive systems, and the importance of community care and ancestral wisdom. Together, we discuss the need for Black educators to reclaim their wholeness, set boundaries, and embrace self-care. The episode offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone seeking healing, empowerment, and a deeper connection to their roots. This is a video about Calling on Ancestral Wisdom with Dr. Jeanine L. Williams - Exit Interview Podcast 00:00 Calling on Ancestral Wisdom with Dr. Jeanine L. Williams - Exit Interview Podcast

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #blackvoices #storytellingpodcast #shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #viralpodcast #MustWatch #educatortalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

In this episode, I sit down with educator and bibliophile Kamye Hugley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamyehugley/) to explore what happens when Black women in education refuse to stay quiet in the face of harm. Kamye traces her journey from her grandmothers urging to be a teacher, to a Teach For America placement that threw her from third grade to Head Start mid-year, to a Head Start classroom tucked in a portable with coyotes underneath and systems that treated early childhood like babysitting instead of brain-building. She shares the heartbreak of referring students for support only to be ignored, the letter she wrote to a district leader that quietly shifted hiring practices, and her time teaching high school intensive reading, where one administrators careless comment about test scores pushed seniors out of school entirely. Together, Kamye and I discuss how these moments accumulate as racial battle fatigue and weathering and why, for Kamye, remaining silent feels like violence aga…

In this episode, I sit down with educator and bibliophile Kamye Hugley to explore what happens when Black women in education refuse to stay quiet in the face of harm. Kamye traces her journey from her grandmother’s urging to “be a teacher,” to a Teach For America placement that threw her from third grade to Head Start mid-year, to a Head Start classroom tucked in a portable with coyotes underneath and systems that treated early childhood like babysitting instead of brain-building. She shares the heartbreak of referring students for support only to be ignored, the letter she wrote to a district leader that quietly shifted hiring practices, and her time teaching high school intensive reading, where one administrator’s careless comment about test scores pushed seniors out of school entirely. Together, Kamye and I discuss how these moments accumulate as racial battle fatigue and weathering and why, for Kamye, remaining silent feels like violence against herself. This episode invites liste…

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #BlackVoices #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #ViralPodcast #MustWatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #RealTalk #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #ListenNow #SubscribeNow

In this powerful episode of The Exit Interview, Dr. Ashlee Saddler shares her journey from mental health professional to educational leader, and the unique challenges she faced as a Black woman in predominantly white school systems. Dr. Saddler opens up about the emotional and physical toll of leadership, including her battle with breast cancera diagnosis she links to the relentless stress and self-sacrifice demanded of Black educators. Through candid storytelling, Dr. Saddler and host Dr. Asia discuss the systemic barriers, microaggressions, and expectations placed on Black women in education, as well as the importance of community, self-advocacy, and wellness. Listeners will hear about the power of mentorship, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the ongoing fight for equity and recognition in schools. This episode is both a testimony and a call to action: to honor the lived experiences of Black educators, to believe their stories, and to create spaces where they can thriven…

Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combatting racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d7KXbRlf6Dpnl4PffXHvuIlLE0CKUEa8/view?usp=sharing #teachers #educators #wellness #retention #education #healing #storytime #Podcast #blackvoices #neurodivergent #StorytellingPodcast #Shorts (for YouTube Shorts) #viralpodcast #mustwatch #EducatorTalk #TalkThatTalk #realtalk #PodcastLife #youtubepodcasts #NewPodcastAlert #listennow #subscribenow

This episode was dropped by Yaa Yaa on the Untenured Podcast! Enjoy! We in Denver ya'll! First time on the West Coast AND first time with a black female podder at our UNtenurED mic telling her truth, and officially, UNmutED! We talk about the revolutionary need for black educator REST, spades or uno?, the power of bell hooks, why fiber matters, her response to "Angry black woman" and teaching social justice to 6th graders and all the ways Dr. Lyons' in her multihyphenate dopeness is buidling community and centering healing. So grab yo water, clean yo glasses and tap in to another conscious convo for the culture - we aint LYIN' when we say Dr. Lyons is bringing it with this episode. Untenured Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCbgvlLwqIiFU1YSD3Cv-rXA Check out the podcast's website: https://www.exitinterviewpodcast.com/ Instagram: @hellodrasia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asia-lyons/ Learn more about combating racial battle fatigue: https://drive.google.c…