251. The Joy of Slow with Leslie Martino

Brave Writer

#Books #Arts #Podcasting Education #Kids And Families #Julie Bogart | Brave Writer

34:35

Marcia Clark, best known as the lead prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson trial, has become a trailblazer for women in law and beyond. Her journey from courtroom to bestselling author reflects her resilience and determination to redefine herself amidst intense public scrutiny. On this episode of Worth Knowing, Clark dives into her latest book, *Trial by Ambush*, which examines the 1953 Barbara Graham case—a story that highlights gender bias, media sensationalism, and the notion that all cases are subject to societal, cultural, and political winds. Clark shares how her experiences during the Simpson trial shaped her perspective on societal pressures and the role of women in high-stakes professions. Her reflections on how media, forensic science, and legal practices have evolved over decades offer valuable insights into the intersection of law and culture. This conversation is a compelling exploration of true crime, personal growth, and how Clark’s groundbreaking career continues to inspire a new generation of women to challenge norms and forge their own paths. Marcia Clark is a bestselling author and a criminal lawyer who began her career in law as a criminal defense attorney and went on to become a prosecutor in the L.A. District Attorney's Office in 1981. She spent ten years in the Special Trials Unit, where she handled a number of high-profile cases, including the prosecution of stalker/murderer Robert Bardo, whose conviction for the murder of actress Rebecca Schaeffer resulted in legislation that offered victims better protection from stalkers as well as increased punishment for the offenders. She was lead prosecutor for the O.J. Simpson murder trial. In May of 1997 her book on the Simpson case, "Without a Doubt," was published and reached #1 on the New York Times, Wall St. Journal, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Publishers Weekly bestsellers lists. In February 2016, Clark re-released the book with a new foreword. Resources Sign up for the Worth Knowing LinkedIn Newsletter to stay up to date: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/worth-knowing-7236433935503618048/ Follow Bonnie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-habyan/ Go to the Worth Knowing website: https://www.worthknowing.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

about a year ago 54:06

MP3•Episode home

Once you view time as a gift to be savored, you can start to naturally exchange agendas for rhythms and arbitrary expectations for deep learning. This is one of the takeaway messages from The Joy of Slow: Restoring Balance and Wonder to Homeschool Learning, a book by experienced homeschooling mom Leslie Martino.

Leslie is our guest on the program today. She earned bachelor and master’s degrees in education from Columbia University, taught as an elementary school teacher, and now homeschools her four kids, ages 10-14. Her book is a meditation on the joy of slow as well as a how-to guide for homeschooling families.

In our conversation today, we dive into creating time and space for critical reflection, the importance of depth over breadth, and savoring joyful connection with our loved ones. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the question, “Are my kids learning fast enough?” this episode will (hopefully) bring a little peace and calm to your soul.

Resources:

Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
Don’t miss Fall Class Registration. Full class descriptions here.
Find “The Joy of Slow” in the Brave Writer Book Shop
Check out Leslie's webinar at Brave Learner Home
Learn more at Leslie's website: LeslieMartino.com/
Follow Leslie on Instagram: @lesliemmartino
Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684

Connect with Julie:

Connect with Melissa:

Produced by NOVA Media

295 episodes

Brave Writer

251. The Joy of Slow with Leslie Martino

Brave Writer

17 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Resources:

Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
Don’t miss Fall Class Registration. Full class descriptions here.
Find “The Joy of Slow” in the Brave Writer Book Shop
Check out Leslie's webinar at Brave Learner Home
Learn more at Leslie's website: LeslieMartino.com/
Follow Leslie on Instagram: @lesliemmartino
Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684

Connect with Julie:

Connect with Melissa:

Produced by NOVA Media

295 episodes

#Books #Arts #Podcasting Education #Kids And Families #Julie Bogart | Brave Writer

All episodes

Brave Writer

1
288. Opening Pandora’s Box: Social Media, Publishing, and Facebook 45:24

4 days ago45:24

45:24

Do you ever wonder why publishing feels harder than ever—even for talented writers? In this episode, we unpack the shifting realities of the publishing world, the gatekeeping role of social media, and how authors are increasingly responsible for their own marketing, platforms, and sales. We also share a personal story about losing tens of thousands of Facebook followers overnight and how that loss spotlighted the fragile ecosystem of modern author visibility. As always, we advocate for connection over clout and remind you that real growth often happens offline—in living rooms, book clubs, and homeschooling co-ops. If this conversation resonated with you, share the episode with a friend or leave us a review. Word-of-mouth is still the best algorithm. Listen now for an honest look at the highs and heartbreaks of writing in the digital age. Resources: Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a longtime homeschooler who could use an infusion of energy and fresh enthusiasm, our free Welcome Home webinar series is for you! Register now to join us on May 20-22! https://bravewriter.com/landing/welcome-home/ Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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287. Interesting Conversation with Julie and Melissa 48:29

11 days ago48:29

48:29

Sometimes, the most meaningful conversations aren’t planned—they unfold. In this week’s episode, we drop in on an unscripted, delightful catch-up between two close friends. From Julie’s recent retreat at Miraval (complete with clay turtles and 7 a.m. birdwatching) to Melissa’s college days giving prairie nature tours, this episode traces the kinds of stories and reflections that surface when we give ourselves time to notice. We talk about how naming things builds intimacy, the role of repetition in learning (and music!), and why modeling beeswax might be the best-kept secret in home education. There are nods to Charlotte Mason, Lynda Barry, roadrunners, rereading A Room with a View , and a clay plaque that simply says “mama.” Tune in for a rich, meandering conversation about creativity, nature, grief, and the quiet power of doing something more than once. Resources: Whether you’re new to homeschooling or a longtime homeschooler who could use an infusion of energy and fresh enthusiasm, our free Welcome Home webinar series is for you! Register now to join us on May 20-22! https://bravewriter.com/landing/welcome-home/ Follow Lynda Barry on Instagram: @thenearsightedmonkey Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Find Wishtree in the Brave Writer Bookshop and check out the Wishtree Dart ! Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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286. A Deep Dive With Sharon McMahon 1:11:49

18 days ago1:11:49

1:11:49

How do we prepare our children to think critically in an age of overwhelming information, bias, and quick judgments? In today’s Brave Writer episode, we interview Sharon McMahon, an award-winning educator, philanthropist, and the #1 New York Times -bestselling author of The Small and the Mighty . In our lively discussion with Sharon, aka “America’s Government Teacher,” we explore how true critical thinking requires a tolerance for discomfort and a commitment to understanding perspectives beyond our own. Sharon reflects on lessons from history, including unsung heroes like Harriet Tubman and Anna Thomas Jeanes, and emphasizes the importance of presenting children with varied viewpoints rather than indoctrinating them with a single narrative. We also discuss strategies for fostering resilience, optimism, and humility as we engage thoughtfully with the world around us. Join us for a conversation full of hope, encouragement, and practical ideas for raising critical thinkers in a complicated world. Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive! Resources: Sharon’s website: sharonmcmahon.com Connect with Sharon on Instagram: @sharonsaysso Read The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon Sharon’s podcast: Here's Where It Gets Interesting Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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285. Poetry All Year Long 46:59

25 days ago46:59

46:59

Do you ever wonder why poetry feels like a balm for the soul—especially when life gets hard? In this episode, we read aloud a collection of favorite poems, reflecting on how poetry helps us process emotions, connect with our children, and find beauty in everyday life. We talk about why we keep reading poems even after National Poetry Month ends, how Poetry Teatime can foster emotional resilience, and why letting poetry “just be” can deepen our appreciation of it. We also share personal stories, original poems, and ways to make poetry a natural part of your family rhythm. Tune in to hear the poems that moved us—and maybe find one for your pocket too. Resources: Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Read: How to Love the World: Poems of Gratitude and Hope Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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284. Eating in Color with Jennifer Anderson 1:05:23

5 weeks ago1:05:23

1:05:23

Feeding kids has become a high-stakes game, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we explore responsive feeding, joyful food marketing, and how to ditch fear-based nutrition rules in favor of connection, variety, and common sense. Jennifer Anderson of Kids Eat in Color helps us rethink what it means to nourish our children without the stress. Listen in to discover how food can be an invitation to connection, not control—and why it's okay to let your child skip the broccoli sometimes. Resources: See Jennifer’s work at kidseatincolor.com Instagram: @kids.eat.in.color Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@kids.eat.in.color Facebook: facebook.com/kids.eat.in.color Iron Rich foods for babies and toddlers: kidseatincolor.com/best-iron-rich-foods-for-babies-and-toddlers/ Real Easy Mealtime Bundle: kidseatincolor.com/product/mealtime-bundle/ Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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283. Exploring the Relationship between Kids and Tech 1:03:25

6 weeks ago1:03:25

1:03:25

Do you feel overwhelmed navigating screens, gaming, and tech in your home? You’re not alone. In this episode, we explore how to shift from blame to curiosity when it comes to your child’s digital life. Ash Brandin, a middle school teacher and the voice behind The Gamer Educator, joins us to talk about the real reasons kids love screens—and how we can use those insights to build stronger connections and more balanced relationships with technology. We discuss the root causes behind tech reliance, how to help kids develop digital literacy, and why empathy and structure matter more than screen limits alone. Tune in for a refreshing, realistic take on managing tech in a way that benefits the whole family. Resources: Follow Ash Brandin on Instagram: @thegamereducator Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing ! Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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282. Help! What if you hate teaching writing? 33:40

7 weeks ago33:40

33:40

Do your kids hate writing? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore why so many children (and adults) feel blocked when it comes to writing—and why it's more important than ever to teach kids to write from scratch, even in an age of AI. We look at the emotional power of writing, the damage done by performance-based instruction, and how we can shift our approach to help kids see themselves as thinkers and communicators. Listen to hear an excerpt from Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing, and learn how to turn struggling students into brave writers. Resources: Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing . Pre-order includes: PDF "Free the Writer in You" Family Freewriting Guide 3 Months of the Paid Substack Subscription for free (starts 4/15/2025) Claim your pre-order bonuses here Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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281. Deep Meaning = Depth Learning 56:58

8 weeks ago56:58

56:58

Do you ever wonder why some lessons stick and others fade away? In this episode, we explore the concept of deep meaning—the essential ingredient behind lasting, joyful learning. When kids connect personally with what they're learning, they move beyond memorization into true expertise. We unpack the difference between mastery and meaning, share real-life examples from homeschooling life (yes, video games and comic books count!), and offer practical questions you can ask to build more meaningful learning moments at home. Listen now to discover how to help your kids not just think, but care about what they're learning. Resources: Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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280. Why We’re FIRED UP About Shannon Watts 58:41

9 weeks ago58:41

58:41

This week, we're re-airing our fantastic conversation with Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, where we discuss her inspiring new book Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age. Tune in for a powerful discussion on activism, passion, and the power of stepping into your purpose! Shannon Watts is the founder of Moms Demand Action, a six-million-member organization she describes as “maybe the world's largest real-life field experiment for what happens when you show women how their abilities and their burning desires and their values align, and how they come alive and can achieve things they never imagined possible.” We are thrilled to have her on the show today to talk about her upcoming book, Fired Up. We talk about how both misogyny and motherhood shape women’s journey to, and through, advocacy. We discuss how to withstand blowback and the discomfort that comes with growth, including celebrating small wins and “finding your people.” We also touch on how social media has allowed women to bypass traditional media gatekeepers. Our conversation with Shannon about the intersection of motherhood, feminism, and activism is one that will keep us fueled for a long time. We hope you enjoy it. Resources: Pre-order a copy of Fired Up and sign up for Shannon’s free Firestarter University course Check out Shannon’s book and other books we’ve recommended on the podcast in the Brave Writer Bookshop . Get involved at MomsDemandAction.org . Sign up for Shannon's Substack Follow Shannon's on Instagram: @ShannonWatts Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Bluesky: @bravewriter.com Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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279. Finally: Not Boring History with Emily Glankler 1:05:58

10 weeks ago1:05:58

1:05:58

Do you remember history class as a list of dates and names to memorize? What if we told you there’s a better way to approach it—one that sparks curiosity and connection? In this episode, we chat with historian and educator Emily Glankler about how to make history come alive for both kids and adults. We explore how history is more than just facts—it’s a story that helps us understand the world. Emily shares tips on critical thinking, thematic learning, and why questioning the past is essential to making sense of the present. Join us for a fascinating discussion on how to approach history in a way that’s engaging, meaningful, and fun. Resources: Emily Glankler is found at: antisocialstudies.org Instagram: @antisocstudies TikTok: @antisocialstudies Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Find our kids’ graphic novel & nonfiction recommendations in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Twitter: @bravewriter Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Twitter: @melissawiley Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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278. Comics Make You Smart! 56:14

11 weeks ago56:14

56:14

Many parents think comics and graphic novels are just a fun diversion, but they are actually a powerful tool for learning. In this episode, we explore how comics build literacy skills, introduce advanced vocabulary, and foster a love of reading. We also discuss how graphic novels bring history and literature to life while encouraging kids to create their own stories. If you’ve ever doubted that comics are “real reading,” this episode will change your mind. Tune in now to discover why graphic novels belong in your child’s learning journey! Resources: Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Find our kids’ graphic novel & nonfiction recommendations in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Boomerangs mentioned in this episode: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/american-born-chinese https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/dragon-hoops https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/march https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/the-odyssey-a-graphic-novel https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/romeo-and-juliet-graphic-novel https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/they-called-us-enemy Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Twitter: @bravewriter Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Twitter: @melissawiley Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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277. Soul School with Amber O'Neal Johnston 59:14

12 weeks ago59:14

59:14

How much do you love a great book list? The kind that introduces you to stories you never knew you needed? That’s exactly what Amber O’Neal Johnston has created in her latest book, Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture . In today’s episode, we explore the profound impact literature has on shaping identity and why it’s essential for all children—not just Black children—to engage with stories from diverse perspectives. Amber shares how Soul School isn’t just a book list, but a guide to curating a home library that reflects the richness of Black American history, culture, and imagination. We discuss the power of Afrofuturism, the accessibility of poetry, and how parents can thoughtfully introduce new voices into their children’s literary world. If you’re looking for ways to expand your family’s reading life in a meaningful way, this conversation is a must-listen. Order Soul School today and start weaving cultural education into your family’s everyday learning. Resources: Learn more about Amber’s book at soulschoolbook.com Our previous interviews with Amber Johnston: Building a Family Heritage through Homeschool with Amber O'Neal Johnston - Part One - A Brave Writer's Life in Brief Building a Family Heritage through Homeschool with Amber O'Neal Johnston - Part Two - A Brave Writer's Life in Brief Building a Family Heritage through Homeschool with Amber O’Neal Johnston - Part Three - A Brave Writer's Life in Brief Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Preorder Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing: How to Turn Struggling Students into Brave Writers Find Amber O’Neal Johnston’s Soul School in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Visit Amber’s website at heritagemom.com Amber is @heritagemomblog on Instagram Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Find our podcast book recommendations in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Twitter: @bravewriter Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Twitter: @melissawiley Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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276. Freedom from Shame with Parenting Coach Crystal Haitsma 57:31

13 weeks ago57:31

57:31

How does shame shape the way we parent? In this episode, we sit down with life coach and homeschooling parent Crystal Haitsma to explore how shame influences our parenting—often without our realizing it. Crystal shares her insights on the difference between guilt and shame, and how we can shift from frustration to curiosity in our relationships with our kids. We also discuss how prioritizing self-compassion can transform both homeschooling and daily life, helping us build stronger connections with our children. If you’ve ever felt discouraged, overwhelmed, or like you’re “not enough” as a parent, this conversation will bring comfort and clarity. Tune in now to learn how to shift your mindset and create a more peaceful home. Resources: Follow Crystal Haitsma on Instagram: @the.parenting.coach Listen to The Parenting Coach Podcast Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Preorder Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing: How to Turn Struggling Students into Brave Writers Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Find our podcast book recommendations in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Twitter: @bravewriter Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Twitter: @melissawiley Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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275. The Delights of Deep Reading 1:04:03

14 weeks ago1:04:03

1:04:03

Once upon a time, getting lost in a book was second nature. But in today's fast-paced, screen-filled world, deep reading has become a struggle—not just for kids, but for adults too. In this episode, we explore why long-form reading matters, how digital consumption affects our focus, and practical ways to rebuild the habit of immersive reading. From creating family reading rituals to understanding how books shape our worldview, we unpack strategies to help kids and parents alike reconnect with the joy of sustained reading. Tune in and let’s turn the page together! Resources: Check out Julie’s new author website: juliebogartwriter.com ! Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic Preorder Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing: How to Turn Struggling Students into Brave Writers Find Maryanne Wolf’s Reader, Come Home in the Brave Writer Book Shop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations Check out Readwise for saving and revisiting your favorite passages Find Melissa’s beloved Brighttech floor lamp on our “ Tools for the Art of Writing ” page Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs Read all Brave Writer class descriptions Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more! Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684 Connect with Julie: Instagram: @juliebravewriter Threads: @juliebravewriter Twitter: @bravewriter Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter Connect with Melissa: Website: melissawiley.com Substack: melissawiley.substack.com Instagram: @melissawileybooks Twitter: @melissawiley Produced by NOVA…

Brave Writer

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274. The Value of One-on-One Time 46:38

15 weeks ago46:38