The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators

Dr. Asia Lyons
  • 5.0 (6)
  • SUPERACIÓN PERSONAL
The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators

Amidst all of the conversations about the recruitment of 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, main or central office. The podcast asks guests to share their education journey, the "last straw" that made them decide to leave education, and, most importantly, what they are doing now that they have left the traditional education sphere.

  1. Taking Care and Moving Forward with Dr. LaShaune Stitt

    19 NOV

    Taking Care and Moving Forward with Dr. LaShaune Stitt

    When the school nurse has to check your blood pressure three times, you know you're in trouble. In this episode of the 'Exit Interview' podcast, I archive the story of Dr. LaShaune Stitt. Dr. Stitt recounts her journey from childhood dreams of teaching to pioneering spaces for young men of Color, and the community-centered approaches that defined her work. Amidst these achievements, she opens up about the health crises and systemic challenges that led her to leave formal education. Our discussion touches on the critical support from women in her professional community, her experiences with racial battle fatigue, and the vital importance of therapy and self-care for Black educators. We delve into the significance of culturally responsive teaching environments and Dr. Stitt's current consulting work, emphasizing the broad, impactful ways educators can contribute to their communities beyond traditional classroom roles. 00:00 Welcome and Milestones 00:57 Introducing Dr. LaShaune Stitt 02:25 Dr. Stitt's Journey into Education 06:23 Founding an All-Male School 08:46 Challenges and Leadership in Education 18:24 Health and Well-being in Education 26:56 The Struggles of Educators 29:12 The Principal's Secret 32:06 The Breaking Point 36:04 A New Beginning 39:12 Shoutouts and Gratitude 41:44 Current Endeavors 48:04 Defining Wellbeing 52:07 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    47 min
  2. Worthy of Rest with Octavia Raheem

    7 NOV

    Worthy of Rest with Octavia Raheem

    In this episode of The Exit Interview, host Dr. Asia Lyons engages in a deep conversation with Octavia Raheem about the transformative power of rest. Octavia Raheem, an accomplished author, rest restorative coach, and former public school teacher, shares her journey from traditional education to becoming a leader in wellness and restorative practices. The discussion explores the importance of rest for Black educators, the systemic challenges they face, and the necessity of self-care. Raheem passionately discusses the interplay between creativity, rest, and holistic well-being, offering practical steps for educators to integrate rest into their lives. Make sure to order her new book, Rest Is Sacred: Reclaiming Our Brilliance Through the Practice of Stillness.

    39 min
  3. Learning to Relearn with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah

    25 OCT

    Learning to Relearn with Kwame Sarfo-Mensah

    In this episode of The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators, Dr. Asia Lyons interviews Kwame Sarfo-Mensah and discusses his transformative journey from aspiring professional athlete to dedicated educator. Kwame discusses his initial pivot to becoming a math teacher and the various challenges he faced in his early teaching years, including a lack of support and job security in Philadelphia charter schools. Moving to Boston, he navigated the complexities of unionized school districts, ultimately learning the importance of self-care to avoid burnout and racial battle fatigue. This episode highlights systemic issues in education, such as the exploitation of committed Black educators and the importance of acknowledging their experiences. Reflecting on his time in Philadelphia, Kwame emphasizes the need for better support systems and career pathways for Black educators. His journey extends internationally as he moves to Sierra Leone, initiating the 'Identity Talk for Educators Live' podcast and authoring 'Learn to Relearn.'

    1 h y 8 min
  4. Advocating for Better Mental Health with Shatiera Porte'e

    8 OCT

    Advocating for Better Mental Health with Shatiera Porte'e

    In this episode of 'The Exit Interview, a podcast for Black educators,' Dr. Asia Lyons hosts Shatiera Porte'e, a school counselor, author, coach and education consultant. Shatiera shares her experiences working tirelessly in education during the COVID pandemic, reflecting on the challenging conditions that led to burnout and her decision to leave traditional education spaces. The discussion highlights the systemic issues Black educators face, such as overwork and lack of compensation, and underscores the need for mental health support within the education system. Shatiera talks about her current role as the founder of 'School Counselors on Wheels,' where she mentors students and educators, emphasizing mental wellness in education. She also introduces her self-help book 'I Forgive Myself for Forgetting Myself,' which aims to promote self-care among service professionals. Throughout the episode, Shatiera pays tribute to influential Black educators who impacted her life, expressing gratitude and reflecting on her journey toward balancing personal wellness and professional aspirations.

    56 min
  5. Lessons In Liberation with Sarah Graham

    24 SEPT

    Lessons In Liberation with Sarah Graham

    In this deeply engaging episode, Dr. Asia Lyons and Sarah Graham discuss the highs and lows of teaching, the systemic issues within public and charter schools, and the importance of culturally responsive and liberatory education. Sarah shares her personal journey, insights into creating inclusive curriculum, and the urgent need for rest and self-care. This episode is a must-listen for educators and anyone interested in the fight for educational equity.

    48 min
  6. Centered in Love with Julia Berry

    9 SEPT

    Centered in Love with Julia Berry

    In this episode of The Exit Interview, hosted by Dr. Asia Lyons, Julia Berry shares her transformative journey from wanting to be a teacher, doctor, and dancer as a child to becoming an educator focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Julia outlines her path from excelling in math and engineering, realizing her passion for teaching, to teaching youth in correctional and treatment facilities. She discusses the challenges she faced with leadership due to her bold approach to DEI work. Julia touches upon the impact of race and supremacy on educational settings and emphasizes the importance of leadership involvement in DEI efforts. After leaving several roles due to systemic resistance to change, she finally finds alignment with her values at a community-based organization rooted in ancient African philosophy. The conversation delves into the personal and professional grief Julia encountered, her methods of self-care, and the joy she finds in her children, gardening, and yoga practice.

    1 h y 6 min
  7. (Re)defining Me with Langston Jacobs

    27 AGO

    (Re)defining Me with Langston Jacobs

    In this episode of The Exit Interview, Dr. Asia hosts Langston Jacobs, a Black male educator who shares his journey and the challenges he faced as a dean of culture in a charter school. Langston discusses his strategies for creating a supportive school environment, the impact of his role on his own mental and physical health, and the significant effects on his family. He reveals how he redefined his approach to leadership and discipline, emphasizing the importance of empathy and community. Langston also highlights the broader systemic issues in education, including the need for mentorship and culturally relevant teaching. Now co-founder and director of men and youth programs at Adams Purpose, Langston continues to support and heal communities through various therapeutic services.  Sign-up for the Black Educators, Be Well Newsletter for updates on our podcast, tips to support wellness as a Black educator and much more!

    59 min
  8. Healing From Racial Fatigue with Jason Shankle

    13 AGO

    Healing From Racial Fatigue with Jason Shankle

    In this episode of 'The Exit Interview,' host Dr. Asia Lyons talks with therapist and researcher 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.

    45 min
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Amidst all of the conversations about the recruitment of 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, main or central office. The podcast asks guests to share their education journey, the "last straw" that made them decide to leave education, and, most importantly, what they are doing now that they have left the traditional education sphere.

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