Black Women Be Knowing

Jan 10, 2026 · 46m

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with a powerful guest—a Black woman principal whose journey has taken her through multiple roles both inside and outside the classroom. She shares her lived experiences navigating school spaces where Black women are often underrepresented, reflecting honestly on the struggles she’s faced and the resilience required to keep going.Our guest speaks candidly about what sustains her as a leader, how her identity shapes her leadership, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. She offers wisdom and encouragement for Black women in school leadership, as well as practical and affirming advice for classroom teachers who are trying to survive—and thrive—in similar environments.This conversation is a reminder that while the work is challenging, Black women continue to lead with purpose, care, and courage. Whether you’re an aspiring administrator, a current school leader, or a classroom teacher, this episode will leave you feeling seen, validated, and inspired.Scholarship: Dr. Jenn M. Jackson https://jennmjackson.com/"Reimagining Teacher Education: Addressing the Developmental Needs of Black Women Preservice Teachers through a Hauntology Framework" by Mariah Deans Harmon https://doi.org/10.1080/10665684.2025.2565486"The Space Traders" by Derrick Bell in his book Faces at the Bottom of the Well: The Permanence Of Racism https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/466460.Faces_at_the_Bottom_of_the_WellSupport the showThis is difficult work that we're doing, and even though we can't always be with you to bear witness, trust us, we know... Welcome home!

Dec 20, 2025 · 43m

Send us Fan MailWelcome back, BWBK crew! This week's conversation explores the profound impact of loss and grief within the educational system, particularly focusing on the experiences of teachers and students. It delves into the complexities of navigating racism and capitalism in education, the complicity of educators in a flawed system, and the need for community support and advocacy for Black children in predominantly white spaces. The speakers reflect on their personal experiences with loss, the importance of valuing life, and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for both students and teachers.Scholarship:Some of us die: a Black feminist researcher’s survival method for creatively refusing death and decay in the neoliberal academy by Dr. Esther O. Ohitohttps://doi.org/10.1080/09518398.2020.1771463Check out the Miiriya app: https://www.miiriya.com/download-app/Support the showThis is difficult work that we're doing, and even though we can't always be with you to bear witness, trust us, we know... Welcome home!

Nov 1, 2025 · 49m

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we explore the charge of Black education outside of the classroom. We were lucky enough to have Dr. T. Gertrude Jenkins join us to talk about her experience providing extra-curricular education and her scholarship on the creation of Black Liberatory Educational Subversive spaces. We highlight the need for Black-centered spaces in predominantly white institutions and reflects on the significance of community engagement and scholarship in fostering Black joy and identity.Scholarship:Follow Dr. Jenkins on Instagram @your_favorite_damn_teacherJoin Dissertating While Black @DissertatingWhileBlackFind out more about Making Us Matter @MakingUsMatter or at https://makingusmatter.com/Support the showThis is difficult work that we're doing, and even though we can't always be with you to bear witness, trust us, we know... Welcome home!

Oct 18, 2025 · 40m

Send us Fan MailThis conversation explores the profound impact of black women on American culture, the unique challenges they face, and the importance of education in empowering future generations. We discuss the concept of 'black girl magic,' the commodification of black bodies, and the need for reclaiming intellectual property in educational spaces. We also delve into the dynamics of anti-blackness and whiteness, emphasizing the necessity of creating safe and affirming environments for black students.Scholarship: Check out our Essential Booklist! https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/190364270-bwbk?shelf=black-women-be-knowing&utf8=%E2%9C%93Support the showThis is difficult work that we're doing, and even though we can't always be with you to bear witness, trust us, we know... Welcome home!

Oct 5, 2025 · 35m

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we delve into the legacy of Assata Shakur, discussing her impact on Black joy and excellence. We explore the challenges faced in education, particularly regarding ethnic studies and social justice curricula, amidst rising political scrutiny. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community advocacy and collective action in resisting educational oppression and fostering inclusive learning environments.Scholarship: "Remembering an Apocalyptic Education: Revealing Life Beneath the Waves of Black Being" by Dr. Tiffani Marie and Dr. Kenjus Watson https://www.rootworkjournal.org/marie-watsonApocalyptic Education by Dr. Kenjus Watson and Dr. Tiffani Marie https://www.apocalypticeducation.org/cultureSupport the showThis is difficult work that we're doing, and even though we can't always be with you to bear witness, trust us, we know... Welcome home!