In this episode of The Exit Interview: A Podcast for Black Educators, Dr. Asia Lyons sits down with Dr. Adrienne Davenport, a veteran educator, administrator, and author, to talk about career transitions, leadership, and the realities of being a Black educator.
Dr. Davenport shares how she unexpectedly entered the field of education, her journey from teacher to administrator, and why she made the bold decision to leave her role as a principaleven before knowing what was next. She reflects on what schools need to do to attract, support, and retain Black educators, the importance of instructional leadership, and why stepping outside of your comfort zone is the key to growth.
If youre an educator thinking about making a shift, an aspiring leader, or just someone who needs a reminder that faith, preparation, and trusting your instincts matter, this episode is for you.
What Youll Hear in This Episode:
[00:02:00] Dr. Davenports unexpected journey into education and how she pivoted from a legal career to teaching
[00:05:00] Navigating family and community expectations when making a career switch
[00:08:00] Teaching middle school: Why eighth graders were her favorite students
[00:15:45] "If you want something, you have to go out and get it." The importance of career growth and leadership development
[00:16:45] "When you get too comfortable, you dont grow." Why taking risks in your career is necessary
[00:24:45] "I didnt know what was next, but this wasnt it." Walking away from a leadership role without a set plan
[00:33:45] The role of Black educators as ambassadors for the profession
[00:37:00] Barriers to entering education: cost, licensing exams, and lack of support
[00:43:15] "You cannot be afraid of instruction." The key to effective school leadership
[00:50:45] "None of us have arrived. Every morning we get another opportunity." Finding wellness, peace, and purpose in education
Quotes Worth Sharing:
"We have to be good ambassadors of our profession."
"Nothing ventured, nothing gained!"
"You dont need all the answersyou just need to know when something isnt right."
"Leaving my principal role wasnt leaving the missionit was expanding it."
Connect with Dr. Adrienne Davenport:
Website: drdconsulting.org
Email: drdconsulting407@gmail.com
LinkedIn: Dr. Adrienne Davenport
Instagram: @DrDavenportEd
Books:
- My Hope Is Built: Reflections of Faith, Grace, and Resilience from an Educational Leader
- STAND: Five Powerful Strategies for Overcoming Barriers to Becoming an Instructional Leader
Resources & Mentions in This Episode:
National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE)
The Exit Interview Podcast Website
Keep the Conversation Going!
What resonated with you most from this episode? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media using #ExitInterviewPodcast
YouTube: The Exit Interview Podcast for Black Educators
Website: exitinterviewpodcast.com
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