Videos

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 an…

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,' host Dr. Asia Lyons talks with therapist and researcher Dr.Jason Shankle about the importance of creating sacred spaces and emotional boundaries, particularly for Black educators facing racial battle fatigue. Jason shares his journey in education and psychology, and offers practical strategies for coping with racial battle fatigue. The conversation delves into the significance of rituals, the value of Black therapists, and the need for intentional self-care practices. Jason underscores the importance of not trying to change toxic work environments but rather focusing on personal healing and maintaining emotional equity.

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 …

Episode Overview In this powerful episode, Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Asha von Liebtag, an accomplished educator, consultant, and advocate for Black excellence in education. Asha shares her journey from Newark, New Jersey, through various teaching roles in both urban and affluent school districts, and into her current work as an educational consultant and curriculum developer. The conversation explores the complexities of Black identity in education, the importance of representation, and the challenges and joys of teaching across diverse communities. Key Topics & Highlights 1. Asha’s Educational Journey & Family Legacy Asha’s inspiration to pursue education began with her grandmother, who overcame significant obstacles to earn multiple degrees later in life, instilling the value of education and striving for excellence. The impact of family, especially grandmothers, as pillars of strength and motivation for Black women in education. 2. Early Teaching Experiences Asha’s commitmen…

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 educators po…

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.

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