270. Celebrating Karen O’Connor

Brave Writer

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

13:44

Legendary actor and mental health advocate Glenn Close is on a quest to change how we think about mental health, starting with her decision to speak out about her own family's struggles — a brave choice considering the stigma that pervades the topic. This week, we're revisiting this sweeping conversation with TEDWomen curator Pat Mitchell, where Close shares the inspiration behind the advocacy group she founded to combat the crisis, underscoring the transformative power of community and the critical need for comprehensive mental health care systems. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 46:33

MP3•Episode home

On New Year's Day, Julie's beloved mother, Karen O'Connor, passed away at the age of 86. Karen was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her kindness, warmth, and wisdom. As a prolific author of 70 books and a gifted writing teacher, Karen's legacy is one of inspiration and creativity. She was deeply cherished by her three children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

In this special episode, we honor Karen's life and contributions by sharing an interview recorded in 2018, when Karen was one of Brave Writer's most beloved writing coaches. Through this conversation, we celebrate her incredible journey, her passion for writing, and her lasting impact on the Brave Writer community.

You can read Karen O’Connor’s obituary here. Donations can be made to the Sierra Club in her name. Visit Karen’s website and learn more about her books at www.karenoconnor.com.

Resources:

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 new Substack: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart
Take a look at the Brave Writer Book Shop
Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
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

297 episodes

270. Celebrating Karen O’Connor

Brave Writer

17 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

You can read Karen O’Connor’s obituary here. Donations can be made to the Sierra Club in her name. Visit Karen’s website and learn more about her books at www.karenoconnor.com.

Resources:

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 new Substack: Brave Learning with Julie Bogart
Take a look at the Brave Writer Book Shop
Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
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

297 episodes

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

All episodes

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290. Beyond the Classroom: Embracing the Unique Journey of Homeschooling 1:02:08

4 days ago1:02:08

1:02:08

Do you ever wonder what makes homeschooling truly different from traditional school? In this episode, we explore the real meaning of “home” in home education. We discuss the flexibility, comfort, and connection that only learning at home can offer, and why the heart of homeschooling isn’t about rigid schedules or perfect cooperation. Instead, it’s about nurturing curiosity, making learning relevant to your child’s world, and embracing big, juicy conversations that help both parent and child grow. If you’re curious about how to make learning come alive in your home—or if you’re struggling with doubts about socialization, grade levels, or your own readiness—this episode offers fresh perspective and encouragement. Join us as we reimagine what education can look like beyond the classroom. Tune in to hear more stories, insights, and practical advice for your unique homeschooling journey! Resources: Don’t miss the replays of our confetti-filled book reveals that kick off a year of reading, learning, and connection! Tune in here: bravewriter.com/landing/book-reveal 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…

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289. A Round Table with Katie Doughty about Julie’s New Book 1:04:48

11 days ago1:04:48

1:04:48

Do your kids say they hate writing? You're not alone—and they're probably not telling the whole story. In this episode, we’re excited to share Katie Doughty’s interview with Julie about Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing! from the Raising Kind Humans podcast. That’s right—this week we’re turning the tables! Together, Katie and Julie explore why so many children struggle with writing and what we can do to restore their natural love for self-expression. From rethinking how we approach mechanics to embracing the role of a writing coach (not a referee), we share practical strategies to help your child find their voice. We also explore how playful tools like freewriting, oral storytelling, and pretend play can unlock creativity and confidence. Writing isn't about getting it “right”—it's about being real. And when we start there, the rest follows. Resources: Download Katie’s free KIND Method Writing Guide just for the Brave Writer community, blending Brave Writer’s heart-forward approach to writing with service learning to help kids write with purpose and take action with a kid-friendly service project: https://go.bravewriter.com/kind-writing-guide Save your spot and join us for a confetti-filled book reveal that kicks off a year of reading, learning, and connection! Sign up here: bravewriter.com/landing/book-reveal 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…

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

18 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…

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287. Interesting Conversation with Julie and Melissa 48:29

25 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…

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

5 weeks 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…

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285. Poetry All Year Long 46:59

6 weeks 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…

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

7 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…

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

8 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…

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

9 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…

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281. Deep Meaning = Depth Learning 56:58

10 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…

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

11 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…

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

12 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…

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278. Comics Make You Smart! 56:14

13 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…

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

14 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…

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

15 weeks ago57:31