The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators

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 cancer—a 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 thrive—not just survive. Whether you’re an educator, leader, or ally, Dr. Saddler’s insights will inspire you to reflect on your own wellness and the systems we must change together.