The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators

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' podcast, hosted by Dr. Asia Lyons, Dr. Adrienne Smith shares her compelling journey as a Black educator. From humble beginnings working in fast food to overcoming hurdles in her pursuit of higher education, Dr. Smith details her experiences teaching in diverse environments, including Alaska. She highlights the importance of cultural competency, listening to Black and brown voices, and her transition to founding Adrienne's Educational Consulting Firm. The episode also delves into navigating toxic work cultures, the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, and the significance of family and community support.

In this episode of 'The Exit Interview,' hosts Dr. Asia Lyons delves into the often-overlooked aspects of early childhood education with guest Brittney Carey. We discuss the crucial role of early education, the challenges Black educators face in ECE, and the systemic issues that affect the retention of dedicated teachers in this field. Brittney shares her journey into education, insightful experiences in the classroom, and the harsh realities that led her to transition out of a traditional teaching environment. The conversation covers advocacy for early childhood education, systemic barriers, and the importance of creating inclusive educational spaces. Join us for an insightful discussion on the importance of early childhood education as a respected profession and the need for systemic change.

In this episode of 'The Exit Interview,' I sit down with Vanity Jenkins, a dedicated educator and advocate for culturally relevant pedagogy. We dive into Vanity's journey from sports management to education, her experiences teaching in the Mississippi Delta, the challenges Black educators face, and the importance of historical context and systemic changes in education. Vanity shares invaluable insights into improving teacher retention, the impact of integration policies, and the critical role of parent and student voices in schools.

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.

This episode of The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators takes a deep dive into the rarely discussed aspect of educator retention, specifically focusing on the Black educators who leave traditional education spaces. Featuring Jalisa Evans, a former teacher turned advocate, this powerful discussion uncovers the challenges, systemic issues, and personal stories behind Black educators' decisions to leave. Through Jalisa's journey from a teacher to a founder of the Black Educator Advocates Network, listeners are presented with both sobering realities and inspiring actions for change. The conversation pivots around anti-blackness in education, the significance of community, and the crucial role of Black educators in students' lives.

In celebration of Mental Health Month, Stacey Taylor-Brandon is back on The Exit Interview to talk about how her work supporting mature Black women was birthed out of her own desire to heal from the racism-related stress and racial battle fatigue she experienced as administrator and social worker in a Denver Area School District. Listen as she discusses ways that you can work toward your own healing and move forward to new spaces in your life without the guilt Black women are often burdened with.

Join us in this insightful episode of 'The Exit Interview' as we welcome Benita Gordon, a passionate educational advocate. In a candid discussion with Dr. Asia, Benita shares her journey from considering a career outside of education to embracing her calling as a teacher influenced by her family's legacy in teaching and the transformational impact of Black educators. Explored through her experiences and initiatives, this episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of Black educators, the importance of mentorship, and the creation of supportive and inclusive educational environments. Benita also discusses her involvement in innovative educational projects and the power of community support in shaping the future of education. Tune in to be inspired by Benita's dedication to making a difference in the lives of students and educators alike.

In this episode, Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Brittany Dawson, discussing the pivotal moments that led Brittany from the classroom to becoming a leadership coach. They explore the challenges faced by Black educators, the emotional and financial hurdles in the teaching profession, and the transformative decision to leave traditional teaching roles. Brittany shares her personal journey, offering insights into her initial attraction to education, the realities of working within public and charter school systems, and finally transitioning to a coaching role that aligns with her passion for making an impact beyond the classroom walls.

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.