Archive for the ‘Podcasts’ Category

[Podcast #277] Soul School with Amber O’Neal Johnston

Brave Writer Podcast

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.

Amber O'Neal Johnston
Amber O’Neal Johnston

In today’s Brave Writer podcast episode, we explore the profound impact literature has on shaping identity. We also look at 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.

Show Notes

How often do we stop and think about the stories that shape our children’s understanding of the world? As parents and educators, we have a profound influence over the books that make their way into our homes, guiding our children’s perspectives and broadening their imaginations. Yet, so often, we reach for the familiar—the books we loved as children, the classics that have been passed down for generations.

But what if we took a step further? What if we intentionally introduced our children to a richer, more expansive literary feast—one that includes voices and histories they may not naturally encounter?

The Power of Literature in Shaping Identity

One of the most striking points Amber makes is how stories shape identity—not just for children of color, but for all children. When a young Black child primarily encounters their ancestors in history books as enslaved people, that narrative becomes deeply ingrained in their sense of self. Similarly, when white children consistently see themselves as the central figures of history and literature, it shapes their understanding of the world and their place in it.

By introducing a wide range of books that celebrate Black joy, resilience, and creativity, we offer all children the opportunity to expand their worldview. We challenge the notion that Black stories exist only in the context of struggle. Instead, we highlight the richness of Black culture, folklore, music, and imagination.

Reading Beyond the Expected: Afrofuturism and More

One of the most fascinating discussions in Soul School is the distinction between Afrofuturism and African Futurism. While both genres reimagine the past and future through a Black lens, African Futurism is deeply rooted in African culture, mythology, and history, unbound by Western narratives. These stories provide an opportunity for children to see worlds where Black characters are not defined by oppression but by adventure, innovation, and possibility.

Amber also emphasizes poetry as a gateway to a more diverse literary landscape. Poets who offer children a way to engage with language in a powerful, emotional, and rhythmic way:

  • Langston Hughes,
  • Maya Angelou,
  • and Nikki Giovanni

Poetry is universal, and its accessibility makes it a perfect entry point for families looking to introduce new voices into their reading routines.

A Call to Curate More Thoughtfully

As parents, we serve as the curators of our children’s literary experiences. If we’re not actively including diverse voices, then the default curation—historically dominated by white authors—will continue to shape our children’s understanding of whose stories matter. Soul School is not just a book list; it’s an invitation to reassess how we build our home libraries.

When we introduce our children to literature from a variety of cultural perspectives, we aren’t just filling in gaps. We’re giving them a fuller, richer, and more accurate picture of the world. We’re preparing them to engage with different perspectives with curiosity, empathy, and understanding.

Amber’s book provides us with a blueprint to do just that. By weaving cultural education into everyday learning rather than treating it as a separate subject, we model for our children the idea that all stories—especially those that have been historically overlooked—are worth reading, discussing, and cherishing.

Expanding Our Children’s World, One Book at a Time

We have the power to offer our children a literary experience that is both expansive and transformative. Whether through poetry, historical narratives, or imaginative Afrofuturist adventures, the books we bring into our homes shape how our children see themselves and the world around them.

Soul School is an incredible resource for any parent or educator looking to enrich their child’s education with literature that goes beyond the expected. By intentionally diversifying the books we read, we give our children the opportunity to build a broader, more inclusive understanding of history, identity, and humanity. And isn’t that one of the greatest gifts we can offer?

Order Soul School today and start weaving cultural education into your family’s everyday learning.

Resources

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Brave Writer Podcast

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[Podcast #276] Freedom from Shame with Parenting Coach Crystal Haitsma

Brave Writer Podcast

How does shame shape the way we parent?

In this Brave Writer podcast 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.

Crystal Haitsma
Crystal Haitsma

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.

Show Notes

Parenting is often described as one of the most rewarding experiences in life—but it’s also deeply vulnerable. No matter how much we prepare, plan, and pour our hearts into raising our children, moments of frustration, self-doubt, and even shame inevitably creep in. We might wonder: Am I doing this right? Why do my kids resist everything I try to offer them? Why do I feel like I’m failing at something so important?

In our conversation with life coach Crystal Haitsma, we explored how shame plays an often-unseen role in parenting. She describes shame as more than just guilt—it’s the deep-seated belief that we are fundamentally not enough. While guilt says, “I did something wrong,” shame whispers, “I am wrong.” And when we parent from a place of shame, it subtly shapes our interactions with our children in ways we might not even realize.

Recognizing Shame in Parenting

Shame in parenting can take many forms. It might show up as exasperation when our kids don’t listen, as self-criticism when the homeschool plan falls apart, or as frustration when our home never seems tidy. It often disguises itself as anger, disappointment, or the belief that if our children’s behavior isn’t ideal, we must be doing something wrong.

Crystal encourages parents to ask, What meaning am I attaching to this? If our children resist our homeschool lessons, does it mean we’ve failed as educators? If they struggle with friendships, does it mean we didn’t prepare them well enough? When we attach our self-worth to our children’s actions, we set ourselves up for an emotional rollercoaster—one that neither we nor our kids signed up for.

Letting Go of the Need for External Validation

One of the most transformative concepts Crystal shares is letting go of the need for external validation, whether from our kids, other parents, or societal expectations. This creates space for a more peaceful, intuitive way of parenting. Instead of fighting against resistance, we can lean in with curiosity. Instead of controlling every aspect of our children’s education, we can trust their natural ability to learn in their own way and time.

What does this look like in practice? It might mean pausing in the midst of morning chaos and saying, Wow, everyone’s bickering today. This isn’t working. What do we need to shift? Instead of forcing a rigid plan, we can collaborate with our children, giving them a voice in their own education and daily rhythms.

Building Shame Resilience

Shame thrives in secrecy and self-judgment. The antidote? Self-compassion. Crystal recommends daily practices like:

  • journaling,
  • meditation,
  • or simply taking five minutes in the morning to check in with yourself before stepping into the role of “parent.”

By making space for our own growth, we increase our emotional capacity and create a home environment rooted in connection rather than control.

Our kids don’t need perfect parents. They need parents who are willing to grow, who model self-awareness, and who show them what it means to navigate life with resilience and self-compassion. When we step away from shame-based parenting, we free ourselves—and our children—to experience the joy of learning, growing, and being human together.

Resources

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[Podcast #275] The Delights of Deep Reading

Brave Writer Podcast

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 Brave Writer podcast 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!

Show Notes

Do you remember getting lost in a book for hours, completely immersed in another world? For many of us, reading used to be an escape, a way to connect with new ideas and stories. But in today’s digital age, where our attention is constantly pulled in different directions, long-form reading has become more of a challenge—not just for kids, but for adults too.

With the rise of smartphones, social media, and quick-hit content, we find ourselves consuming words all day long—texts, emails, captions, and headlines. But this type of fragmented reading is very different from the sustained, immersive experience of reading a book. Instead of engaging deeply with a story or argument, we skim, react, and move on. This shift has real consequences, affecting our ability to focus, think critically, and fully absorb information.

Why Long-Form Reading Still Matters

Books demand our attention in a way that digital reading does not. When we commit to a novel or a lengthy piece of nonfiction, we allow the author time to build their case, develop their characters, and invite us into a richer, more complex world. This slow, deliberate process strengthens cognitive skills, deepens our ability to engage with ideas, and even fosters empathy.

Reading long-form texts also challenges our brains to retain information over time. Unlike scrolling through headlines or tweets, books require us to remember details from chapter to chapter, strengthening our memory and comprehension. This type of engagement builds patience, allowing us to form more thoughtful opinions rather than reacting instantly to soundbites.

Helping Our Kids Develop the Habit

As parents, we want to cultivate in our children a love for books that withstands the lure of digital distractions. But that doesn’t happen automatically—it takes intentional effort. Here are some strategies to bring back deep reading in your home:

  • Make Reading a Shared Activity: Group reading, whether through read-alouds, buddy reading, or silent reading sessions together, creates an environment where books are part of everyday life. Even teenagers benefit from reading alongside a parent, simply sharing the same space.
  • Create a Reading Ritual: Lighting a candle, making a cup of tea, or setting a cozy reading nook can transform reading into a pleasurable experience rather than just another task.
  • Use the Library as a Resource: Letting kids browse shelves, pick out books that interest them, and bring home a stack is an exciting way to encourage engagement with physical books.
  • Start Small and Build Up: If attention spans are short, begin with short stories, graphic novels, or poetry, and gradually work up to longer texts.
  • Encourage Rereading: Revisiting favorite books isn’t just comforting; it strengthens comprehension and helps children see new layers in stories they already love.

The goal isn’t just to get our kids to read books—it’s to help them experience the depth, joy, and transformation that long-form reading can bring. If we, as parents, model this practice, we’ll not only strengthen our own focus but also invite our children into a lifelong relationship with books.

So, let’s slow down, pick up a book, and rediscover the magic of sustained reading.

Resources

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[Podcast #274] The Value of One-on-One Time

Brave Writer Podcast

Homeschooling can feel overwhelming, especially when managing multiple children. One of the most powerful ways to revitalize learning and relationships is through one-on-one time.

In this Brave Writer podcast episode, we explore how small, intentional moments with each child can:

  • strengthen connection,
  • build trust,
  • and even make academics more enjoyable.

From playing games to taking a walk, we discuss simple ways to incorporate this practice—without feeling like it’s just another thing to schedule. If your homeschool routine is feeling stagnant, this episode might be the refresh you need.

Tune in now to hear how one-on-one time can transform your homeschool and family life!

Show Notes

In the whirlwind of homeschooling, parenting, and managing daily life, it’s easy to fall into the rhythm of group activities and structured learning. But one of the most powerful tools we have as parents and educators is often overlooked: one-on-one time with our children.

Carving out individual moments with each child isn’t just a bonus—it’s essential. This intentional connection fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and enhances the learning experience in ways that structured lessons never could.

Why One-on-One Time Matters

A household is dynamic, especially when juggling multiple children, responsibilities, and a packed schedule. The thought of carving out individual time with each child might feel overwhelming, but the benefits make it worth prioritizing.

When a child gets our undivided attention, they feel valued—not as a student, a sibling, or part of the family unit, but as an individual. They experience being seen, heard and understood. This personal connection builds goodwill, making them more receptive to learning and family collaboration.

One-on-one time also allows us to shift from the role of a parent-instructor to that of a companion. Instead of directing, correcting, or instructing, we get to simply be with our child—at eye level, sharing an experience and allowing curiosity and conversation to flow naturally.

What Counts as One-on-One Time?

It doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. While big outings are wonderful, one-on-one time can be as simple as:

  • Playing a board game
  • Cooking a meal together
  • Taking a short walk
  • Sharing a bedtime conversation
  • Listening to music or a podcast together
  • Working on a creative project side-by-side

The key is engagement—being fully present, not checking off a task or sneaking in a lesson. This time isn’t about directing but about participating alongside your child.

The Ripple Effect in Homeschooling

One of the surprising benefits of one-on-one time is how it impacts the overall homeschool dynamic. When children feel connected and prioritized outside of structured learning, they become more cooperative during academic time. That one walk, that game of cards, that inside joke—these things build the trust that makes it easier to approach challenges together.

In a household where individual attention is spread thin, keeping a simple rotation can help. Whether it’s a weekly outing, a standing ritual (like weekend art nights or post-dinner walks), or even quick check-ins throughout the day, it all adds up.

A Small Shift, A Big Impact

One-on-one time is not an extravagant luxury—it’s a necessity that fuels the whole homeschool experience. It transforms our children’s relationship with learning and deepens the bond that makes our homeschool and our family life thrive.

So, if homeschooling feels like a grind, if connections feel distant, or if engagement is low, the solution might not be another curriculum tweak—it might just be more connection. Start small. Look for natural openings. Say yes to their invitations. And watch how these moments transform not just your homeschool but your relationship.

Resources

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Produced by NOVA

Brave Writer Podcast

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[Podcast #273] Announcing Julie’s New Book!

Brave Writer Podcast

Writing is often framed as an external obligation in schools, but we believe it’s much more than that.

Writing is an act of self-expression—a way to explore:

  • ideas,
  • emotions,
  • and creativity.

In this Brave Writer podcast episode, we discuss how parents can help children reclaim the joy of writing, emphasizing its value as a personal journey rather than just a task to complete. We also touch on the role of AI, the importance of fostering self-expression, and how writing connects us to the world and each other.

Listen to the full episode for insights on how to nurture confident, passionate writers in your family.

Also, learn about preorder bonuses for Julie’s upcoming NEW book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Show Notes

Reclaiming the joy of writing

One of the key ideas we aim to champion is that writing begins with the writer. When children (or adults) discover that their words matter—that writing is a means of exploring their ideas, emotions, and creativity—something shifts. The resistance we see in reluctant writers often stems from this disconnection. They’ve been taught that writing is about rules, not about them. Our goal is to help families reframe writing as a joyful act of discovery.

The role of parents in fostering self-expression

Parents have a unique opportunity to cultivate an environment where writing is seen as a tool for personal expression. This can start small. Invite your child to freewrite for ten minutes, with no agenda beyond getting their thoughts onto the page. Encourage them to share their writing if they wish but avoid critiquing it. Instead, celebrate the ideas they bring to life.

In our Brave Writer programs, we’ve seen the transformative power of this approach. Children often go from avoiding writing altogether to eagerly crafting stories, reflections, and essays. When they realize their thoughts and words have value, their confidence and enthusiasm soar.

Why writing matters now more than ever

In an age dominated by technology and shortcuts like AI-generated text, it’s tempting to let tools do the writing for us. But why would we? Writing is more than just producing words; it’s a way of understanding ourselves and the world. By writing, we develop our critical thinking, articulate our values, and preserve the unique stories that make us who we are.

We encourage parents to emphasize this point with their children. Writing is not a race to a polished essay. It’s a journey into the mind and heart, one that rewards curiosity and effort. It’s this sense of discovery and ownership that makes writing worth doing.

Carrying the torch forward

Ultimately, our mission is to ignite a passion for writing that will stay with families for generations. Writing connects us to each other and to our shared humanity. Whether it’s through a Substack essay, a poem in a eulogy, or a handwritten letter, our words carry meaning and power.

As we celebrate 25 years of Brave Writer, we remain deeply committed to this vision. Writing isn’t just about meeting standards or completing assignments. It’s about finding your voice and learning to trust it. That’s what we hope to inspire in every family we serve.

Resources

Connect with Julie

Connect with Melissa

Produced by NOVA

Brave Writer Podcast

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