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, reflect, and heal. These gatherings, known as “Sisterly Bonds,” focus on joy, community, and honoring personal and ancestral legacies.
Throughout the episode, Stacey and Dr. Lyons discuss the challenges faced by mature Black women, such as societal expectations, the need to always appear strong, and the difficulty of prioritizing self-care after many years of serving others. Stacey emphasizes the importance of “getting rid of the shouldas” and invites women to embrace the second half of their lives with freedom and authenticity.
