Brave Writer: Recent Episodes
Julie Bogart | Brave Writer
The Brave Writer podcast is a big juicy conversation about how to bring learning to life for your kids! Julie Bogart and guests talk about how parents and children are partners in the learning adventure, especially when approaching the daunting task of writing. Brave Writer appeals to homeschoolers, educators, and parents who want more out of "school" than merely passing tests. Visit us at http://bravewriter.com and follow along at the blog for show notes: http://blog.bravewriter.com
What changes when we stop rushing children toward the lesson we planned and start noticing the learning already unfolding?
A visit with Julie’s six-year-old granddaughter becomes a fresh look at poetry, reading, art museums, and the remarkable power of one-on-one attention. We explore how treasure hunts turn worksheets into quests, why a child’s “wrong” answer contains useful logic, and how patient observation helps us see familiar subjects differently.
Homeschooling does not always provide daily proof of progress. Often, we collect a few luminous moments surrounded by plenty of ordinary space. Join us as we learn to trust that the pearls are enough.
Resources:
- Registration is open now for Movie Discussion Club: Captivating Stories (Christopher Nolan) and many other Brave Writer classes!
- You can find “Every Face I Look at Seems Beautiful to Me” on Melissa’s blog,Here in the Bonny Glen
- Check out the special offer atTalkbox.MOM/brave and start speaking a new language with your kids from day one!
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- If you’ve ever thought of trying out online music lessons, now is the time! Claim your freeMaestro Music lessons at Free Music Lessons for Brave Writer Families | Maestro Music .
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if some of the richest learning in your homeschool happened after you walked out the front door?
We’re exploring how to plan family outings that turn science, history, art, literature, music, sports, and local culture into hands-on experiences. We share what to pack in a reliable go-bag, how to prepare children for unfamiliar environments, and why a little advance exposure can make an outing more exciting. You’ll also hear dozens of affordable field-trip ideas, from factory tours and art scavenger hunts to author homes, grocery stores, women’s sports, and geocaching.
Grab your calendar, choose an adventure, and make room for learning beyond the lesson plan.
Resources:
- Registration is open now for Building Brave Writers: Description,Becoming a Critical Thinker, and other awesome Brave Writer classes!
- Check out the special offer atTalkbox.MOM/brave and start speaking a new language with your kids from day one!
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Find watercolor pencils (along with our favorite readalouds and nonfiction) in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the best first day of homeschool begins long before the first lesson?
As summer stretches toward a new school year, we’re talking about the kind of preparation that actually supports family life: flexible routines, child-centered planning, cozy spaces, printed materials, backup plans, and first-day rituals that invite kids into learning with curiosity instead of pressure.
We explore how to protect homeschool mornings, plan from behind, use Poetry Teatime as a reset, build in experiences your kids care about, and let the seasons of the year shape your energy.
Pour a cup of tea, grab your calendar, and begin imagining a homeschool year that feels both doable and alive.
Resources:
- Here’s where to find ourIntuitive Planning Tool and ourBingo template
- Our freeBrave Writer Summer Camp is happening now—July 22nd and 23rd!!
- Check out the special offer atTalkbox.MOM/brave and start speaking a new language with your kids from day one!
- Did you know Brave Writer has a partnership withThe Homeschool Printing Company? When you print with them, they give you a high-quality printed copy at a low price, and they put you at the front of the line for printing! (USA only) Here’s thespecial print form for Brave Writer products.
- LIsten toJulie and Melissa’s interview with Emily Glankler about her US History program for high-school students
- Find Julie’s beloved long-arm stapler (and a bunch of great reading suggestions!) in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Registration begins July 20 for Building Brave Writers: Description,Becoming a Critical Thinker, and other awesome Brave Writer classes!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if rigor isn’t about children sitting still, pushing through tedium, and finishing every worksheet without complaint?
In this episode, we reimagine rigor as a meaningful challenge: the kind children willingly embrace when the goal matters to them. From math games and secret codes to bird lists, comics, Pokémon tea time, and writing that reaches an interested audience, we explore how hard work becomes inviting when it is rooted in play, connection, and curiosity.
We share practical ways to build reading, writing, handwriting, spelling, math, and science skills without draining the joy from learning.
Join us as we rethink what rigorous learning can look like at home.
Resources:
- Learn a new language with Talkbox! Try it out attalkbox.MOM/brave
- Join us for our freeBrave Writer Summer Camp on July 22nd and 23rd!
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Registration begins July 20 for Gamers Write! Minecraft Edition, Becoming a Critical Thinker, and other awesome Brave Writer classes!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Have you ever wondered whether your scattered systems, duplicate scissors, or frozen to-do list are actually character flaws, or clues to how your brain works?
In this second conversation about ADHD in the homeschooling parent, we look at the inattentive traits that can hide behind daydreaming, over-planning, lost objects, and task paralysis. We talk about accommodations, body doubling, medication, the ADHD tax, and why evaluations can miss neurodivergent homeschooled kids whose lives are already beautifully adapted to their needs.
Most of all, we name the relief that comes when shame gives way to information. Listen in and let’s make room for every brain in the homeschool.
Resources:
- DIVA questionnaire for ADHD: Advancedassessments.co.uk
- Sign up for our free Brave Writer Summer Camp!
- Registration for our Semester of Classes opens July 13-17
- Check out the special offer at Talkbox.MOM/brave and start speaking a new language with your kids from day one!
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the neurodivergence in your homeschool is not only in your child, but in you?
In this honest and eye-opening conversation, we explore what happens when the home educator begins to recognize ADHD traits in themselves. From task initiation and time blindness to hyperfocus, novelty, shame, doom boxes, and the relief of a diagnosis, we talk about how our wiring shapes the homeschool experience.
We also name the gifts: enthusiasm, curiosity, side quests, deep dives, and the ability to turn education itself into a living adventure.
Tune in for Part One of a conversation many of us didn’t know we needed.
Resources:
- DIVA questionnaire for ADHD: advancedassessments.co.uk
- Sign up for our free Brave Writer Summer Camp!
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if a writing retreat didn’t require a plane ticket to Ireland?
This week, we explore what makes writing feel spacious, playful, and alive. From Julie’s memoir retreat on the Irish Sea to Melissa’s fiction experiments with point of view, we talk about how atmosphere, community, sensory detail, and low-stakes exploration can help writers of every age drop beneath the noise of daily life.
We also share practical ways to create a mini writing retreat at home for your kids, complete with snacks, freedom, feedback, and delight.
Join us as we reimagine writing as nourishment for the intellect and the spirit.
Resources:
- Catch the replays of our free Brave Writer training webinars
- Shop our June sale!
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Threads: @juliebravewriter
- Bluesky: @bravewriter.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social
Produced by NOVA
What happens when faith, prayer, endurance, and every “right” effort still do not make a marriage safe?
In this brave and deeply honest conversation, we talk with Alisha Roth, author of Courageous Divorce, about young marriage, religious expectations, abuse, motherhood, homeschooling, community loss, and the difficult clarity that can come when a woman finally listens to her own body and life.
Together, we explore divorce not as failure, but as a serious boundary, sometimes the one that makes healing, safety, forgiveness, and a more honest future possible.
Listen in for a tender conversation about faith, courage, and choosing to truly live.
Resources:
- Visit Alisha Roth’s website at Alisharoth.com
- Alisha’s Instagram: @littlewomenfarmhouse
- Find Courageous Divorce in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Why teach writing when AI can generate paragraphs in seconds?
In this episode, Melissa Wiley talks with Brave Writer president Dawn Smith about why writing still matters, maybe more than ever. Together, they explore writing as a tool for thinking, voice, discovery, and connection. We look at how kids develop their own style, why pre-writing conversations are part of the writing process, and how partnership writing helps children bridge the gap between ideas and words on the page. Plus, Dawn shares what’s new with Partnership Writing and how families can pair projects with Darts for a rich month of learning.
Tune in and reconnect with the deeply human work of writing.
Resources:
- Catch the replays of our free Brave Writer training webinars
- Shop our June sale!
- Explore the Brave Writer high school program
- Learn more about our mentor-led training program for Brave Writer parents
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if academic standards didn’t have to threaten your homeschool rhythm?
In this episode, we explore how to translate grade-level expectations into the rich, lived learning already happening in your home. From Poetry Teatime to bird watching, baking, narration, read-alouds, and everyday conversations, we look at how whole experiences often contain the very skills listed in scope-and-sequence documents. Rather than turning homeschool into school-at-home, we can use standards as information, not intimidation.
Join us as we make peace with checklists, protect our children’s investment in learning, and celebrate the evidence already unfolding in daily life.
Resources:
- Catch the replays of our free Brave Writer training webinars
- Shop our June sale!
- Visit the Brave Learner website at thebravelearner.com
- Order your copy of The Brave Learner from theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
When is schoolwork really finished? If your child refuses the last five math problems, drags through copywork, or resists the assignment you carefully planned, the issue may not be laziness or defiance. It may have meaning.
In this episode, we rethink what completion really means in homeschool. We explore intrinsic motivation, rote practice, sensory needs, Charlotte Mason’s wisdom, gaming “grind,” and the parent’s role as coach rather than taskmaster. We also talk about how to document learning without turning home into school.
Join us as we trade arbitrary finish lines for meaningful progress.
Resources:
- Register for the Brave Writer Book Reveal on June 1st and 2nd – our biggest event of the year!
- Sign up for our free training webinars in June. It’s professional development for parent educators!
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open for summer classes!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if your best homeschool resources are the small routines, songs, snacks, and tools your kids remember years later?
In this episode, we gather a treasure chest of family-tested ideas: read-alouds, Signing Time, Bob Books, captions, morning songs, poetry memorization, skip counting, quiet time, seasonal books, geography games, Postcrossing, DragonBox Algebra, Snap Circuits, and more. Along the way, we talk about why the imperfect moments often become the brightest memories, from dry Lucky Charms at Shakespeare Club to circus animal cookies at a recital.
Join us as we celebrate practical, playful ways to make learning stick.
Resources:
- DragonBox Math Apps - International Award Winning Series
- Postcrossing: Postcards connecting the world
- Find books and other resources mentioned in this episode in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What does it mean to prepare our children for a future we can’t predict?
In this episode, we reflect on homeschooling, parenting, adult children, and the tender reality of endings. We talk about why “success” may be the wrong measure for family life, how love becomes the truest through-line, and why our kids’ adult reflections deserve to be heard without defensiveness. From changing job markets and AI uncertainty to theater outings, cancer treatment, and raisin bread metaphors, we explore how to keep relationship at the center.
Join us as we make room for love, complexity, feedback, and joy.
Resources:
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if your child’s long, winding stories are not a distraction from learning, but the very foundation of it?
In this episode, we explore the art of narration: the natural ability children have to tell what they notice, remember, imagine, and understand. Inspired by Charlotte Mason and the astronauts of Artemis 2, we look at how vivid description, precise vocabulary, metaphor, and careful listening help kids turn experience into language.
We also talk about oral narration, written narration, jot-it-down practices, observation, public speaking, and why parents can become a child’s own Mission Control.
Listen in, and let’s learn how to say: Copy kid joy!
Resources:
- Learn more aboutBrave Writer’s Worldbuilding class and other enthusiasm-sparking online classes!
- Explore NASA’s “Observe the Moon Like an Astronaut” activity
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What do our kids actually need to know before they leave home?
In this episode, we explore the everyday life skills that often get overlooked, from tying shoes and folding laundry to handling money, filling out forms, speaking with customer service, hosting guests, managing time, and learning how to do what life requires next. We talk about why practical competence is part of education, not separate from it, and why homeschooling gives us a beautiful chance to teach these skills in real life, at the right moment.
Join us for a conversation about raising capable, confident kids who know how to participate fully in the world.
Resources:
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the crankiness in your homeschool isn’t a behavior problem at all, but an adventure deficit?
In this episode, we explore how too much routine can flatten a family’s energy and how a little surprise, novelty, and wonder can bring learning back to life. We share simple ways to add adventure at home, outside, in literature, in language, and even on rainy days, plus ideas for building an “adventure list” before you need one. Along the way, we talk about wonder walls, theater games, jump rope, gardening, punctuation, and the hilarious flow chart that asks the all-important question: “But did you die?” Listen in, then come share your own adventure ideas with us.
Resources:
- Check out the “Did You Have a Good Adventure?” flow chart atSemi-Rad.com
- Find Roots, Shoots, Buckets, and Boots and Whatever the Weather: Science Experiments and Art Activities That Explore the Wonders of Weather in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
- 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
What if math felt less like drudgery and more like discovery?
In this episode, we explore “mathematical imagination” and the many ways math is already alive in everyday family life. We talk about counting, measuring, predicting, sports, video games, art, nature, and how curiosity can turn numbers into something meaningful. We also share practical ways to make formal math time more inviting, from manipulatives and mystery-based activities to math tea times and even bubblegum math. If you’ve ever wanted to help your child experience math as a language for describing the world, this conversation is for you.
Listen in, then come tell us what math looks like in your home.
Resources:
- Explore the Journey North Mystery Class archives
- Encounter solar system planet sizes and distances in this fun activity
- Find our favorite books for kids and parents in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s newest book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if an online writing class didn’t mean Zoom fatigue, rigid schedules, or one more thing to manage?
In this episode, Melissa Wiley talks with Kirsten Merryman about what makes Brave Writer’s online classes so different: asynchronous discussions, text-based coaching, warm instructor feedback, and a structure that makes room for all kinds of learners. We explore how real writing growth happens, why parents learn right alongside their kids, and which classes might be the best fit for your family, from Story Switcheroo to Essay Prep, Gamers Write, and Media Literacy.
Kirsten Merryman is Brave Writer’s Vice President of Operations and former director of online classes. She is also a longtime homeschooler, writing coach, and curriculum creator who has helped shape Brave Writer’s approach to supporting both parents and young writers.
Join us to discover how writing support can feel personal, practical, and surprisingly freeing.
Resources:
- Explore our upcoming Brave Writer class schedule
- Got questions about classes? Reach out to us at help@bravewriter.com
- Find our favorite books for kids and parents in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s newest book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the biggest obstacle in your homeschool isn’t what you’re missing—but the fear that you’re doing it wrong?
This week, we explore “fear of messing up” and how perfectionism quietly shapes our expectations, decisions, and confidence as parent educators. We unpack where that pressure comes from, how it shows up (hello, endless curriculum switching), and why chasing the “perfect” method keeps us stuck.
We also share practical ways to shift your focus toward connection, curiosity, and process—plus tools like interval training and a flexible writing app to support real learning.
Ready to trade perfection for progress? Let’s rethink what success actually looks like.
Resources:
- Pacemaker:pacemaker.press
- Julie’s Substack post on this topic:http://juliebogart.substack.com/p/fomu-fear-of-messing-up?r=bv7b0&utm_medium=ios&triedRedirect=true
- Find books mentioned in this episode in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Why does a child understand something one day and forget it the next?
In this episode, we explore what neuroscience reveals about how learning actually works. Drawing from Uncommon Sense Teaching and Make It Stick, we unpack the difference between working memory and long-term memory—and why retrieval, repetition, and even mistakes play a vital role in lasting learning. We also share practical strategies like jotting notes, sketching ideas, and spaced repetition to help knowledge stick.
When we understand the brain’s learning process, we can guide our kids with more patience and confidence. Listen in and discover how to turn everyday lessons into lasting knowledge.
Resources:
- Listen to our episode “Make It Stick: How to Know If Your Kids Are Retaining What They Learn”
- Find Uncommon Sense Teaching and Make It Stick in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
- 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
Ever have one of those homeschool days when your brain feels completely empty?
We’ve been there too. In this episode, we share a long list of practical, creative hacks that can revive your homeschool when energy is low. From painter’s tape timelines and DIY history games to geocaching adventures, urban walking tours, and quick art projects, we explore simple ways to bring curiosity back into learning. We also talk about focus tools, seasonal nature activities, and building systems that make everyday homeschooling run smoothly.
If you need fresh inspiration or a reminder of the good ideas you already have, this conversation is for you. Tune in and start your own “good ideas” list today.
To help you put these ideas into action, here’s the full checklist of practical homeschool hacks we discussed:
- Adhesive whiteboard that sticks to your wall. Lap-sized whiteboards for math & handwriting practice & general doodling.
- Painter’s tape for timelines + write events on index cards and tape to wall.
- Make-your-own Chronology game (this is an actual card game, but we made our own with index cards)
- Combine geocaching with local geography & history.
- Watch urban planning videos — you learn so much about how neighborhoods are constructed!
- A spin on this — put your own area into the Youtube search bar with “buildings” or “urban planning” or other terms. We’ve been learning about specific Portland buildings & landmarks this way. Also: look up the origin of place names in your area. Great local history!
- Cookie sheet with magnets for car trips with littles (and other uses)
- Make a FOCUS-FIRE-FAST-FUN grid for triaging tasks
- A little thing that makes a big difference: assign pencil sharpening to a weekly time slot. Get a good sharpener! Also — scissors and tape in every room.
- Have the kids do wet-on-wet watercolors and then cut into bookmarks. Leave a stash on every bookcase
- Take an afternoon to create playlists for yourselves: one for afternoon tidy-up chores, one for instrumental music while reading, one for songs you play to transition between daily activities, etc.
- Check out Joshua MacNeill’s book: 101 Brain Breaks & Educational Activities
- Have a day for choosing the best squishy stuff for playing with during readalouds - what does each kid like best? Beeswax, Sculpey, modeling clay, silly putty, playdough, wiki stix. Make the texture exploration an activity by itself.
- With spring coming — plant some peas & sweet peas! An old custom in some regions was to plant your peas on St Patrick’s Day. They like cold soil. Cheap, easy activity for rapid payoff.
- Decorate by cutting out frames from black card stock, stick to clear contact paper, make designs out of pieces of tissue paper. Easy holiday window decor.
- Look up local foraging groups. Might be able to join a walk & learn about edible plants.
- Learn about wildlife corridors. Can your yard become one? Some easy ways to assist. Pick one species you’d like to help. Look up its needs: for example, if a butterfly: what host plant is native to your area? What nectar plants attract it? What else might it need – a dish of water with stones for perching on? Or - mason bees. Various birds. Start with a single species and learn how to spot it. Notice who else shows up. A literary tie-in for older kids: Read The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
- A nice tie in – a poetry anthology like The Wonder of Small Things (edited by James Crews) or Sing a Song of Seasons: A Nature Poem for Each Day of the Year (Fiona Waters & Frann Preston-Gannon). Consider propping on a bookstand turned to each day’s page.
- In that vein – any kind of seasonal nature book is great to prop open. Like a field guide turned to a bird your kids might encounter.
- Make a list of short stories you’d like to discuss with your kids. Keep this on hand for times when you want a short-term literary activity — say, between longer books, or whenever life is filling up with appts/distractions/new baby/etc and you want something self-contained. A good short story immersion can span a single afternoon (but will likely stick with your kids forever).
- Melissa’s daughter keeps a visual reading journal: she chooses a sticker to represent each book. When she finishes a book, she puts the sticker in her notebook with the date, gradually creating a page full of stickers. On the facing page, she writes details about the books.
You don’t always know how much you know! Make a GOOD IDEAS notebook or Apple Note!
Resources:
- Learn more about geocaching at https://www.geocaching.com.
- Find books mentioned in this episode in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the best critical thinking curriculum is already in your closet?
This week, we explore why board games and card games do more than pass the time. From Monopoly and Settlers of Catan to Quiddler, Pandemic, and even Operation, we unpack how games build patience, strategy, communication skills, resource management, and flexible thinking—all through play. We share personal stories, favorite family games, and one powerful rule: when your child asks to play, say yes.
Ready to rethink learning? Pull out a game tonight and let it do the teaching.
Resources:
- Find our favorite board games in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Are you wondering if you’ve done “enough” this year? What if the real question isn’t about subjects completed—but about the atmosphere you’re creating?
Melissa developed a simple framework to help her notice what was filling her children’s days. She called it the “Rule of Six”:
- Living Books – Rich, engaging books written by authors with passion and depth.
- Encounters with Beauty – Art, music, and nature woven into daily life.
- Meaningful Work – Household responsibilities and academic efforts that truly matter (not busywork).
- Imaginative Play – Unstructured time for creativity, games, and exploration.
- Big Ideas to Ponder and Discuss – Narration, conversation, and reflection on what’s being learned.
- Reflection – Ending the day with gratitude, prayer, or thoughtful review.
This week, we revisit this concept as a method of filling our children’s days with living books, beauty, meaningful work, imaginative play, big ideas, and reflection. From accidental learning to on-purpose instruction, we explore how to balance immersion with explicit teaching—so our kids gain both joy and skill. If you’re feeling that mid-year wobble, this conversation will help you notice what’s thriving, what’s missing, and how to move forward with clarity.
Resources:
- Read about Melissa’s Rule of Six
- Discover our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What do you—and your kids—have the right to think, question, and say?
This week, we unpack a “Critical Thinking Bill of Rights” and apply it to homeschooling life. We explore the pull of group identity, the courage to disagree with leadership, the power of private thoughts, and the freedom to change your mind. We talk about fairness in co-ops, resisting performative values, and raising kids who can think for themselves without fear. If you’ve ever felt pressure to conform or questioned whether you’re “doing homeschool right,” this conversation will steady you.
Join us—and then talk through these rights with your kids.
Resources:
- Read Julie’s Substack post on her Critical Thinking Bill of Rights
- Find our favorite readalouds and nonfiction in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What does it really mean to think critically in a world that never stops shouting at us? In this episode, we slow things down and explore how to stay grounded when information, emotion, and opinion collide. We talk about noticing our own reactions, asking better questions, and learning how to separate facts from the stories wrapped around them. Along the way, we share practical tools you can use with your kids—and yourself—to build clarity, curiosity, and courage. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise or unsure how to model thoughtful engagement, this conversation offers a steady place to begin. Join us, and keep thinking well.
Resources:
- Find Raising Critical Thinkers and Becoming a Critical Thinker on Julie’s website atjuliebogartwriter.com
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Homeschooling looks different depending on how many kids you’re teaching—and that’s exactly the point. In this episode, we explore the real-life rhythms of homeschooling in both big families and small ones, offering practical strategies for group learning, one-on-one time, and everything in between. We talk about releasing guilt, using creative resources to keep kids engaged, and recognizing the unique opportunities that come with each family size. Whether you’re juggling many ages or navigating the intensity of homeschooling an only child, this conversation is full of reassurance, ideas, and perspective. Join us—and let’s rethink what “doing enough” really means.
Resources:
- Find great readalouds and read-alones in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if enchanting learning didn’t require themed parties, elaborate prep, or constant performance? In this episode, we unpack the myth of magic-making and show why real enchantment is rooted in connection, not production. We share simple, practical ways to revive lessons that feel stuck, from eye contact and movement to snacks, forts, music, and letting kids take the lead. Along the way, we explore how curiosity, comfort, and collaboration create learning that actually sticks. If you’ve been feeling burned out or pressured to “make school magical,” this conversation offers a deep exhale and a fresh way forward. Join us and rediscover how easy magic can be.
Resources:
- Listen to our episode withEmily Glankler on “Not Boring History”
- Find Julie’s favorite book on improv in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What happens when we slow down long enough to really wonder? In this episode, we explore the difference between rabbit trails and rabbit holes—and why both matter in learning and in life. From telephone poles and faded signs to classic children’s literature and everyday neighborhood mysteries, we reflect on how curiosity deepens when we resist quick answers and allow questions to linger. We talk about active wondering, mental stillness, and the surprising richness of slow learning in a fast world. Join us as we rediscover how noticing, wondering, and waiting can transform ordinary moments into meaningful education.
Resources:
- Listen to our episode onRabbit Holes and Rabbit Trails
- Find John Stilgoe’s Outside Lies Magic in theBrave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- VisitJulie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book,Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at theBrave Learner Home
- Learn more about theBrave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters,Brave Learning with Julie Bogart andJulie Off Topic, and Melissa’sCatalog of Enthusiasms
- Sign up for ourText Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if the most powerful way to strengthen focus, creativity, and connection in your home is…quiet? In this episode, we explore the growing trend of silent reading parties and why shared, sustained reading helps both kids and adults reclaim attention in a scrolling world. We talk about body doubling, device fatigue, reading rituals that actually work, and how simple practices like DEAR time or candlelit reading can change the rhythm of a homeschool day. If your family struggles to settle into books, this conversation offers gentle, practical ways to read together again. Join us—and then grab a book.
Resources:
- Grab a discounted copy of our Brave Writer Guide to the Winter Games!
- Big props to Christopher Frizzelle, whose Silent Reading Parties are one of the inspirations for this episode.
- Find Sue Monk Kidd’s Writing, Creativity, and Soul in the Brave Writer Book Shop. And don’t miss our selection of books that make great companion reads for the Winter Games!
- Brave Writer class registration is open! Our Building Brave Writers classes are a great pick for a winter jumpstart.
- Check out the Boomerang for Jack London’s The Call of the Wild and White Fang
- Share William Wordsworth’s sonnet “The World Is Too Much With Us” with your kids
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community in our membership forum, the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What if your child’s hardest behaviors aren’t a problem to fix, but an invitation to grow? In this episode, we sit down with Mary Van Geffen, author of Parenting a Spicy One, to explore what it really means to raise a strong-willed, sensitive, or explosive child. We talk about nervous systems, repair after blow-ups, and why slowing down is often the most effective parenting move. You’ll hear practical strategies, deeply humane insights, and a reframing of “difficult” kids that just might change everything. Join us, and let’s rethink what supportive parenting can look like.
Resources:
- Preorder Parenting a Spicy One for special bonuses! Details at Mary Van Geffen’s website: https://www.maryvangeffen.com
- Follow Mary on Instagram @maryvangeffen
- Find books mentioned in this episode in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community in our membership forum, the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice:www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
If your homeschool doesn’t produce stacks of worksheets, does that mean learning isn’t happening? We explore why meaningful education often leaves very little paper behind. From embodied grammar lessons to spontaneous moments of insight, we talk about how children actually learn and why traditional record-keeping can miss the point. We also share practical, low-pressure ways to document growth without turning your home into a classroom clone. If you’ve ever worried that your homeschool doesn’t “look like enough,” this conversation offers reassurance, clarity, and permission to trust what you see unfolding every day. Join us and rethink what counts as real evidence of learning.
Resources:
- Find delicious reading selections for kids and adults in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community in our membership forum, the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice:www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What happens when you realize the mission can grow even as your energy changes? This week, we share a heartfelt update about Brave Writer’s next chapter—why protecting the “sacred trust” matters, how strong culture makes change possible, and what it looks like to move from doing it all to mentoring new leadership. Along the way, we revisit a long-held Florence dream (Santa Croce + A Room with a View), talk about training replacements, and offer a “January gift” idea: online writing classes kids experience as a treat. Come listen—and then join us at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
Resources:
- Find A Room With a View in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community in our membership forum, the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial ofCTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice:www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
Have you ever wished you could grow as a writer—not just help your kids write, but find your own voice on the page? In this episode, we explore practical, gentle ways to build an adult writing life from scratch. We talk about tiny daily practices, “write or do nothing” sessions, using poems and memories as prompts, and reading as the best antidote to writer’s block. We also share favorite craft books, quirky revision tricks, and how community can transform your confidence.
Join us as we map out five concrete steps to start (or restart) your writing practice this year.
Resources:
- You can find all the books mentioned in this episode in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community in our membership forum, the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
What happens when we slow down and really listen to the language of a story? In this special episode for kids and parents, we cozy up with Cynthia Rylant’s Lighthouse Family series and unpack a delicious opening passage from The Storm. We notice how sound, mood, adjectives, and even compound words work together to paint Pandora the lighthouse cat’s lonely world—and we share simple ways to turn those discoveries into copywork, scavenger hunts, and rich family discussion.
Join us as we read, notice, and play with language—then keep the magic going in your own read-aloud time.
Resources:
- Order the Lighthouse Family issue of the Dart here (available Jan. 1st)
- Find the Lighthouse Family books in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
- Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com
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
As the leaves turn and the days shorten, there's a distinct shift in the air – it's the cozy season, a time for warmth, reflection, and connection. This season, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations about embracing the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) in our homeschooling journey. Hygge is all about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. It's the warmth of morning light streaming through the window, the comfort of a hot cup of cocoa, the joy of a shared story.
In this replayed episode, we delve into how hygge can transform the homeschooling experience. As the season changes, so does the rhythm of our homes and our approach to education. It's a time to slow down, to savor, and to connect more deeply with our children through learning and play.
Resources:
- Hero Kids: https://www.heroforgegames.com/hero-kids/
- Amazing Tales: https://amazing-tales.net/
- Expedition (free pdf): https://expeditiongame.com/print-and-play
- Your Very Own Village (free pdf): https://www.onwardheroes.com/yourveryownvillage
- MouseGuard RPG: https://www.mouse-guard.net/rpg
- English Tea Store: englishteastore.com
- Find books mentioned in this episode in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at the Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
What do we do when our tweens and teens don’t seem “into” anything? In this episode, we explore how to revive interest, curiosity, and motivation in the middle school years—without forcing artificial enthusiasm. We talk about why middlers may seem disengaged, how risk and adventure replace the “magic” of early childhood learning, and how deep dives, conversation, boredom, and flexibility can open doors to authentic passion. We also share practical scripts, examples from our own families, and tools for nurturing critical thinking and connection.
Text us your questions using the link in the show notes!
Resources:
- Listen to our interview with Chris Balme, and find his book Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Find community at Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
How do we move from “I think I want to homeschool” to “We’ve created an education that fits us”? In this episode, we walk through the eight natural stages homeschool parents experience, from jumping in without a clue, to swapping curriculum in search of the “perfect” program, to finally trusting ourselves and embracing “us schooling.”
We share real stories from our own homeschools, talk about ideological pressure from methods and social media, and offer practical ideas for planning from behind and building a routine you can bend without breaking.
Listen in to discover your stage and what might come next, and then join us to share where you are in your journey!
Resources:
- Read Julie’s post on this topic here: Brave Writer Podcast: Natural Stages of Growth as a Home Educator - A Brave Writer’s Life in Brief
- Visit the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Brave Writer class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Is tech quietly running your homeschool?
In this episode, we explore what happens when we trade the shared adventure of learning at home for one-child-one-screen schooling. We look at why so many of us feel pressured to meet standards, how online platforms promise to “save” us, and what our kids might be losing when learning is reduced to logins, slides, and quizzes. We also imagine a different path: learning as a lifestyle, full of real conversations, messy projects, and magic moments that don’t fit into a metric.
Listen in, then join us in reclaiming the joy of being learners together at home.
Resources:
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her post on this topic
- Visit our “Tools for the Art of Writing” page in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Explore our lineup of engaging writing classes
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
What if the key to helping your kids love learning is simply seeing the world through their eyes?
In this episode, we explore perspective as the secret sauce of education and connection. We begin with Steven’s unforgettable appreciation letter to UPS (and the jaw-dropping chocolate response!), then move on to practical ways to help kids imagine other points of view—through microscopes and magnifying glasses, collaborative storytelling, fan fiction, and rich books that stretch their empathy. We also talk about “wasted” time, sandbox learning, and why pleasure matters more than performance.
Listen in and choose one new perspective shift to try with your kids this week.
Resources:
- Discover the adventure of self-directed learning with Unschool Adventures! And hear more from founder Blake Boles on the Brave Writer podcast
- Visit our “Tools for the Art of Writing” page in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- You’ll also find Julie’s beloved math manipulatives and Dogsbody, Melissa’s favorite Diana Wynne Jones book, there!
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Julie Bogart and Melissa Wiley return with a heartwarming episode all about writing stations---simple, inviting setups that help kids discover the joy of putting pen to paper. Inspired by Melissa's son Steven, who has turned letter-writing into an art form, the hosts explore how authentic writing can become a beloved ritual rather than a chore.
From Steven's letters to UPS and Paula's Choice to the treasure of handwritten notes to grandparents, Julie and Melissa show how writing stations make real-world communication accessible, beautiful, and meaningful. They share easy ways to stock materials---stationery, stamps, pens, and postcards---and ideas for turning everyday writing into connection, gratitude, and delight.
This episode celebrates handwriting as an act of love and self-expression, reminding parents that the goal isn't perfect penmanship---it's the human touch of words sent out into the world.
Topics discussed include:
- How one homeschooler's letters sparked joy and community
- Creating low-stress writing stations at home
- Letter writing as real-world language arts
- Why small gestures of gratitude matter
- The enduring beauty of paper, pens, and stamps
Resources:
- Unfortunately, “Murph” (Melissa’s source for old stamps) is no longer selling online. But don’t miss these Goodnight Moon stamps at USPS! (The new Baby Wild Animal forever stamps are adorable too)
- Visit our “Tools for the Art of Writing” page in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Julie Bogart and Melissa Wiley reunite to reflect on one of Charlotte Mason’s most enduring ideas: that education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life. What begins as a heartfelt story about a cozy childhood home becomes a rich conversation about the environments we create for learning—spaces that invite participation, curiosity, and joy.
Together, Julie and Melissa trace how atmosphere extends far beyond decor: it’s about invitation and accessibility—baskets of art supplies, blocks within reach, and time to be alone with one’s imagination. They explore the balance between discipline and freedom, how attention and process nurture joy, and what today’s parents can learn from slowing down in an age of distraction.
From Charlotte Mason’s 19th-century wisdom to 21st-century challenges like social media and “attention deficit trait,” this episode is a practical and deeply reassuring guide to cultivating meaningful education that feels alive, attentive, and full of enchantment.
Resources:
- Julie’s Monday Morning Meeting for kids – the Birds episode
- Project Feederwatch: feederwatch.org
- Visit the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Melissa Wiley takes the mic solo this week for a heartwarming look inside her current homeschool life with her youngest, sixteen-year-old Huck. Drawing from her decades of experience as both author and homeschooling mother of six, Melissa walks listeners through a day in the life of their family’s “tidal homeschooling” rhythm—where structured “high tide” study meets creative “low tide” exploration. She shares how her son’s outdoor program, their history-and-literature studies, and rich family traditions—film club and nightly read-alouds—keep learning alive and joyful.
If you’ve ever wondered how homeschooling evolves through the teen years—or how to nurture curiosity and connection as your family grows—this episode offers both inspiration and practical insight. Melissa also touches on her creative work, finding balance as a writer and parent, and how rhythms of learning shift with each new life chapter.
Resources:
- Teens and Books: A Deep Dive with Dawn Smith
- Finally: Not Boring History with Emily Glankler
- Tidal Homeschooling: The Ebb & Flow of Home Education with Melissa Wiley
- Find the Moomins books in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Welcome back to the Brave Writer Podcast! This week, Julie sits down with Alisha Brignall, a Canadian homeschooling veteran and educational leader with over 15 years of experience guiding families through their unique learning journeys. With a Master’s in Education and her work as a Home Education Manager at an independent school, Alisha brings a wealth of knowledge about both the philosophy and the practical realities of homeschooling. She’s also the founder of INSPIRED, Alberta’s only secular homeschool conference, dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive communities for families.
In this warm and deeply insightful conversation, Alisha and Julie explore how homeschooling has evolved over the past two decades—from early pedagogical pioneers to today’s eclectic mix of families seeking flexibility and connection. They unpack the differences between Canadian and American approaches to home education, discuss how to cultivate confidence as a parent educator, and highlight the growing landscape of hybrid models and secular learning spaces.
Together, they reflect on what it truly means to measure success in education, nurture a love of learning, and prioritize family relationships as the foundation for meaningful growth.
Resources:
- Find Alisha on Instagram at @alisha.brignall
- Visit the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Julie takes us on a sweeping journey through the history of homeschooling, weaving together her own story with the larger movement that reshaped education in America. From the experimental classrooms of 1970s California to the early legal battles of the 1980s and the faith-driven conventions of the 1990s, Julie shows how homeschooling evolved from a fringe experiment into a mainstream educational choice.
Along the way, she shares the moment she first heard the word "homeschool," how early influences shaped her teaching philosophy, and why the movement looks so different today---with growing diversity, secular options, and new opportunities for connection.
This episode dives into:
- Landmark cases like Wisconsin v. Yoder and their impact
- The rise of Christian homeschooling and its cultural influence
- How COVID-19 sparked a new wave of homeschoolers
- Brave Writer's unique role as a non-sectarian home for all families
Julie's personal history is a reminder that homeschooling has never been static---it has always been about reimagining education for the times we're in.
Resources & Mentions
- Visit the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Julie is back from her two-week trip to Italy (with a quick stop in Copenhagen!) and brings stories that weave together travel, literature, and layered learning. From visiting her aunt on the Mediterranean coast to finally stepping inside Florence’s Santa Croce—20 years after promising herself she would—Julie shares how books like A Room with a View transform sightseeing into soul-deep experiences.
She and Melissa explore how these kinds of connections—between story, place, and lived experience—are the essence of meaningful education. You’ll also hear about unexploded WWII bombs in a train station, the Leaning Tower of Pisa’s surprising wonder, naked bungee-jumping in Denmark, and a serendipitous plane conversation that led to the discovery of a century-old “living book.”
This episode is a reminder to travel, talk to strangers, and create opportunities for our kids (and ourselves) to encounter the world twice: once through story, and once in real life.
Resources & Mentions A Room with a View by E.M. Forster * Sister Wendy’s Story of Painting (BBC) * The Prairie Thief by Melissa Wiley * Brave Writer Dart: The Prairie Thief * Stories of the Old Duck Hunters and Other Drivel* by Gordon MacQuarrie * Brave Writer Online Classes
- 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
One of the major perks of homeschooling is that the middle-school years can be about adventure instead of awkwardness. In this episode, Melissa chats with author Chris Balme about his book Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome. Balme’s book invites young readers to discover how trust, agency, and meaningful challenges transform “awkward years” into growth years. Join us for a conversation about kid-driven adventures—stealth art, teaching what you know, citizen science, apprenticeships, and building from scratch—plus practical ways to close the gap between social perception and interpretation, repair friendships, and use side-by-side activities to spark conversation. We also share why modeling a beginner’s mind (learning an instrument, sketching, coding) invites kids to try, fail, and try again.
Listen to the full episode to gather specific challenge ideas you can use this week and to reframe these years as the great adventure they are.
Resources:
- Learn more at Chris Balme’s website: www.chrisbalme.com
- Chris’s Substack: Growing Wiser
- Follow Chris Balme on Instagram: @chrisbalme
- Find CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: 50 ADVENTURES TO MAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL AWESOME in the Brave Writer Bookshop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Join us at the Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Do you ever catch yourself treating screens like contraband—tolerated in tiny doses, never to be openly celebrated? Ash Brandin, author of Power On: Managing Screen Time for the Benefit of the Whole Family, urges us to view screens as morally neutral and to focus on how they can serve the whole family’s needs.
In this episode, Ash shares their “Screen Time ABCs”: Access that adapts to context rather than rigid caps, Behavior as neutral data rather than blame, and Content choices that create better stopping points. They offer practical tactics like sticky-note reminders for Minecraft, reducing scarcity with predictable access and occasional “yes days,” using body doubling for schoolwork, and setting YouTube Kids to Approved Content Only to eliminate ads and algorithms. Ash also addresses AI, encouraging us to teach kids digital literacy and vetting skills rather than fear.
Their perspective replaces guilt with guidance, helping families connect through technology instead of fighting against it. Tune in to hear Ash’s thoughtful strategies and mindset-shifting advice.
Resources:
- Follow Ash Brandin on Instagram: @thegamereducator
- Read Power On: Managing Screen Time for the Benefit of the Whole Family by Ash Brandin
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Join us at the Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Do you ever wonder how to keep teens reading—joyfully, deeply, and on their own terms? In this conversation with Brave Writer Director of Publishing Dawn Smith, we explore practical ways to sustain a teen’s love of books: continuing read-alouds, using buddy-reading systems with sticky-note annotations, deciding when a movie should come before (or after) the book, and leveraging picture books, audiobooks, and graphic adaptations as scaffolds into harder texts. We also share a simple framework for building teen book lists—evaluating a single title, the mix across a year, and the overall “reading diet”—so families preserve joy while expanding range and rigor.
Resources:
- Find Jim Trelease’s The Read-Aloud Handbook in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Check out our Boomerang and Slingshot guides for teens: https://blog.bravewriter.com/2024/05/30/2024-2025-mechanics-literature-programs/
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Join us at the Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Do you ever wish your homeschool week started with momentum instead of Monday drag? We’ve found that small, doable invitations right at the start of the week prime kids for curiosity, competence, and follow-through. Think five minutes of inspiration that launches hours of self-directed learning—no elaborate prep required. In our work with families, three tiny shifts consistently flip the “on” switch for kids: cozy learning spaces, gathering the world into the home, and playful comparison that sharpens thinking.
In this episode, we share kid-friendly prompts you can use right away: build a “hidey hole” (a cozy, distraction-light nook) to make reading and copywork inviting; curate a rotating Nature Table to grow observation, vocabulary, and seasonal awareness; and try “Movie Twins” to compare an original film with its remake, strengthening analytic thinking and family conversation. We show how five-minute Monday cues, paired with simple tools like clipboards, lamps, and labels, generate ownership and momentum all week long.
Resources:
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Have you ever wondered why a classroom teacher who loved her job would leave it all behind to homeschool? That’s the story of Meredith Reyes, known as @TheStringyMama. In this episode, Meredith shares what she learned teaching in California and Texas, why an unannounced active-shooter drill became the tipping point for her family, and how she’s navigated the shift from rigid classroom structures to a more flexible, tidal rhythm at home. We talk about nature as a powerful teacher, the role of interest-driven writing (yes, Minecraft counts!), and the challenges—and opportunities—of raising kids in an age of AI.
Meredith’s story is candid, moving, and deeply relatable for anyone weighing the value of school versus the joy of learning. Listen in to hear her journey and take away fresh confidence for your own path.
Resources:
- Follow Meredith on Instagram: @thestringymama
- Find Skunk and Badger in the Brave Writer Book Shop—and don’t miss our Skunk and Badger Dart!
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
One of the best parts of homeschooling is the freedom to start the year in a way that works for your family. Instead of overwhelming everyone with a full schedule on day one, you can begin with connection and fun—like a “Not Back to School” outing, a day of games, or a creative project. Personal notes to each child, wish lists of activities, and a few well-chosen dates on the calendar can keep momentum going all year. By adding subjects gradually, stocking up on creative supplies, and valuing the experience of learning, you set the tone for a joyful, sustainable year.
In this episode, we share practical tips, creative ideas, and mindset shifts to help you roll out your homeschool year gently while building curiosity, creativity, and connection. Listen in for ways to make your start feel exciting and doable—for both you and your kids.
Resources:
- Find Prang watercolors, Prismacolor pencils, and other irresistible art supplies in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Fall class registration is open!
- Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
- Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
- 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
Homeschooling isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection, curiosity, and adapting to your family’s needs. In this episode, we revisit three core principles that have guided our approach through the years: honoring spontaneous self-expression by jotting down our children’s words, remembering there are no educational emergencies (kids learn at their own pace), and staying flexible by changing the topic or the context when resistance pops up. When we let go of pressure and focus on our children’s interests, we create an environment where learning truly thrives.
Resources:
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Fall class registration is open!
- 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
- Give your child the gift of music! Sign up for a free month of private lessons with Maestro Music and let your child discover their own musical voice: www.maestromusic.online/brave
- 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
Do you ever wonder what’s at stake when we hand over our children’s education to automation and AI? In this episode, we explore how the rise of influencer-driven resources and tech-powered learning tools is reshaping homeschooling—and what we risk losing when we outsource the most human parts of education.
We discuss why real learning thrives on meaningful connection, hands-on experiences, and the expertise of educators and parents who care deeply about kids, not just content. As homeschooling changes, let’s remember to center our children’s education on relationships, shared adventures, and the joy of learning together.
Resources:
- Read Peter Benchley’s article about sharks
- AI-Induced Psychosis article
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Fall class registration is open!
- 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
Have you ever felt exhausted from giving your all, yet still worried you aren’t doing enough? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Diana Hill, clinical psychologist, podcast host, and author of Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most. Diana shares her refreshing, science-based approach to reclaiming our natural strengths and using our “genius energy” wisely, rather than trying to fix ourselves or do more. We explore how our gifts can sometimes get off track, why honoring paradox and values leads to better solutions, and how building wise habits starts with small moments of self-awareness. Diana’s wisdom encourages us to embrace interdependence and resilience, transforming not just ourselves but our communities.
Listen to the full episode for more practical strategies and inspiration from Diana Hill on how to bring wise effort—and more joy—into your family and life.
Resources:
- Learn more on Diana’s website: https://drdianahill.com/
- Check out Diana’s books: https://drdianahill.com/books/
- Find Wise Effort and How to Love the World at the Brave Writer Bookshop
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Fall class registration is open!
- 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
Do you ever find yourself wondering what you’ve truly accomplished in your homeschool? Chronicling—through blogs, scatterbooks, journals, quick notes, or even voice memos—offers families a way to celebrate growth, capture memories, and gain confidence in the learning journey. In this episode, we discuss the many forms of chronicling, how it transforms our outlook from focusing on what’s missing to noticing the richness of what’s already happened, and why the tools you choose should fit your style and life. Whether it’s a scatterbook, a five-year diary, or a few lines in your phone, recording your days can turn fleeting moments into lasting meaning.
Resources:
- Read Melissa’s blog, Here in the Bonny Glen
- Julie’s Amazing Day post
- Google’s NotebookLM
- Check out the Wild Simplicity digital planner: https://www.etsy.com/shop/smallmeadow/
- Brave Learner Home: https://bravewriter.com/brave-learner-home
- Fall class registration is open!
- 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
Do you ever wonder if the writing assignments your child receives are actually supporting their growth—or just making writing feel like a chore? In this episode, we explore why it’s not only okay but essential to judge and adapt writing assignments for your kids. We talk about how rigid or uninspiring tasks can stifle self-expression, why playful and flexible approaches unlock learning, and how you can confidently take charge of your child’s writing journey. We also share practical tips for adapting assignments and supporting your child’s natural development as a writer.
Resources:
- Jane Austen “crosswriting” letters: https://www.themorgan.org/collection/literary-and-historical-manuscripts
- Watch: Zoom - Ubbi Dubbi
- Fall class registration opens on July 21!
- 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
Do you ever wonder how to create a homeschool life that feels rich and connected, rather than just checking off boxes? In this episode, we explore the Brave Writer Lifestyle—moving beyond rigid schedules to routines that foster connection, flexibility, and joy in daily learning. We discuss how to anchor your days with simple routines, value real-life learning, adapt to your family’s needs, and protect space for inspiration and downtime. The conversation highlights the power of memory-making moments and the freedom to design a homeschool experience that is meaningful for both parent and child.
Resources:
- Brave Writer Lifestyle website: https://bravewriter.com/program/brave-writer-lifestyle
- Listen to our previous episodes on Tidal Homeschooling:
- Tidal Homeschooling: The Ebb & Flow of Home Education with Melissa Wiley
- NEW on the Podcast: Introducing Co-Host Melissa Wiley!
- 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
Do you ever wonder why some learning experiences “stick” while others fade away? In this episode, we explore how grammar, punctuation, and spelling can come alive through brief, meaningful conversations and playful discovery—far from the world of endless worksheets. We discuss the power of “quick dips” in learning, the magic of using favorite books as a playground for curiosity, and the importance of connection in helping knowledge grow naturally. By making room for authentic curiosity and everyday conversations, we can nurture a love of language that lasts. Tune in for practical ideas and a refreshing perspective on making language arts meaningful at home.
Resources:
- Sign up for our free Brave Writer Summer Camp!
- 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
Do we still need human storytellers in an age where technology can generate stories and essays with a click? This episode explores why nothing can replace the warmth and connection that come from sharing stories aloud as a family. We talk about the generational bonds formed through storytelling, the irreplaceable value of reading aloud, and how these practices create both readers and resilient human beings. We also reflect on our evolving feelings about artificial intelligence—how it can be both fascinating and unsettling—and why human relationships and creative self-expression must remain at the heart of education.
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
- Read Diabolus Ex Machina by Amanda Guinzburg
- 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
Starting to homeschool can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about creating a learning environment that sparks curiosity and builds strong family relationships. In this episode, we share practical tips for understanding legal requirements, choosing and personalizing curriculum, and setting up a home environment where learning happens naturally—on couches, in backyards, and through everyday routines. We also talk about balancing technology, fostering flexibility, and letting your educational philosophy guide your choices.
Ready to feel empowered in your homeschool? Listen to the full episode for all our tips, stories, and encouragement as you launch (or refresh) your homeschooling adventure.
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
There’s something special about the way a great book can bring families together. At Brave Writer, we spend months curating our Dart, Arrow, and Boomerang book lists—not just for educational value, but for the joy and connection they foster. Our guides are crafted to turn read-alouds into vibrant conversations, gently teach language through real literature, and empower kids to see themselves as writers.
This episode dives into the thought and care behind our book selection process, the flexibility of our literature guides, and the many ways families can make reading a shared adventure. Whether you’re a long-time Brave Writer or just curious about what we offer, you’ll come away inspired to make reading the highlight of your homeschool year.
Want to experience the magic for yourself? Tune in to the full episode for a behind-the-scenes look at how we pick our books and support your family’s reading 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 Quills, Darts, Arrows, Boomerangs, and Slingshots in Brave Writer's June sale
- 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
- 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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!
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
- Try out our Brave Writer Practice Pages
- 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
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 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.
Resources:
- Austin Kleon on why he saves New Year’s resolutions for February
- Anne Helen Petersen, “The Social Media Sea Change”
- Find Wintering by Katherine May in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Julie’s new author website (juliebogartwriter.com) goes live next week!
- 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
- 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
Welcome back for Part 2 of our conversation with Tara Mohr, homeschooling mom and expert on women’s leadership.
We discuss teaching kids to notice and name their inner critic, the terms “pachad” and “yirah,” and what Tara means when she uses the term “calling.”
You can pick up a copy of Tara’s book, “Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead,” in the Brave Writer book shop!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Find “Playing Big” by Tara Mohr in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- 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:
- 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
What is it that holds women back when it comes to taking risks or living authentically? How can we raise our daughters so they don’t have to struggle as much as we have?
Tara Mohr, an expert on women's leadership and a homeschooling mom herself, joins the show today to discuss this topic and share her book, Playing Big: Practical Wisdom for Women Who Want to Speak Up, Create, and Lead.
We discuss developing self-trust and the difference between preparation and improvisation.
Be sure to stay tuned for Part 2!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Find Playing Big by Tara Mohr in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- 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:
- 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
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:
- 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
Welcome back for the second half of our walk down Brave Writer memory lane!
Julie regales us with never-told-before stories about the ups and downs of the Brave Writer business. She tells us about the one and only time she took out a loan for Brave Writer. We also hear about a stressful lawsuit that ended up with a scammer getting arrested!
Most of all, we hear story after story about how the love of writing, and the commitment to developing kids’ self-expression, has rippled out across thousands of lives.
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:
- 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
It started with editing church materials and swapping advice on 1990s internet message boards. Today, Brave Writer has served thousands of families, helping them transform their relationship to writing and each other.
In this episode, we walk you through the history of Brave Writer.
Take a listen as Julie explains why she started the business and how she grew it. Her story is unique, but similar to many homeschool moms’– discovering knowledge and skills that you didn’t even know you had.
The conversation is full of so many good stories, we decided to do a Part 2 next week!
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
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Find Julie's books in 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:
- 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
Learning is a natural function of the brain. As teachers, our job is to facilitate that natural function. In today’s episode, we dive into the research around how brains perform learning and the ideal conditions for optimal learning.
We dig into Renata and Geoffrey Caine’s research on the topic, focusing on three key areas: orchestrated immersion, relaxed alertness, and active processing. We explain how each one works and how to leverage them as homeschooling parents.
This episode is packed with information and ‘lipstick drops’ (you’ll understand after you listen). It will give you tools to create more ‘aha moments’ for you and your learners.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Find the book ‘Making Connections’ in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- 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:
- 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
Julie’s back!
You may have noticed that Melissa’s been hosting the podcast solo recently. Today we learn why Julie has been absent and what she’s learned while she’s been away.
We talk about Julie’s experience with her mother’s illness, leading Julie to reflect on how her mother created a homeschooling culture for her kids even though they were enrolled in traditional school.
We also review how the Brave Writer’s Day Off Conference went and discuss our favorite parts.
Join us as we celebrate Julie’s return!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Explore the Brave Writer Book Shop
- 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
Is there anything better than the warm, magical feeling you get from a good book series? In today’s episode, Dawn Smith, Brave Writer’s Director of Publishing, joins us to discuss the power of children’s book series.
We talk about the unique delight of reading a book series, getting immersed in the characters and the world they live in. We also dig into how series help build kids’ confidence through repeat exposure to an author’s writing patterns.
Tune in to hear some of our favorite book series and the memories they helped us make with our kids.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Visit the Brave Writer Book Shop to learn more about the book series we mention in this episode
- 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
How can you go beyond the daily grind of lessons to truly enliven your kids’ learning? In this episode, we go over two methods that you might have already observed pop up naturally in your kids’ lives: rabbit trials and rabbit holes.
Is your kid super obsessed with something at the moment? That’s great! Feed their “rabbit hole” deep-dive with as much material and curiosity as you can.
Does your kid jump from one related topic to another? That’s great too! They are making connections between how things work via “rabbit trails.”
Your child’s natural curiosity is something to be fed, not fought. Join them in the hole or trail!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Explore the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Listen to Episode 263: Appreciating Art with Bianca Bosker
- 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
If you feel like an outsider when it comes to art, you aren’t alone. In fact, as Bianca Bosker explains, there’s a whole gatekeeping system built up around art: who you know, how you dress, what words you use, etc.
Lucky for us, Bianca Bosker spent five years finding a way past the gatekeeping. In her book and in today’s episode, Bianca brings back her findings to the rest of us, teaching us how to better seek out and appreciate art.
If you want to find more beauty and meaning in the visual world around you, this episode will help. Bianca’s frank insightfulness is life-giving.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Find Bianca’s book, “Get the Picture,” in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Check out the Class Schedule for Fall
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101
- Read Bianca’s other book “Cork Dork”
- Read “Sister Wendy’s Story of Paintings”
- Read “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain”
- 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 Media
Play isn’t a reward for learning, it is the learning. In this episode, we dig into the puritanical reflex to be suspicious of anything fun, and rebuke it with developmental science and lived experience. We give ideas on how to create playful conditions for deep, sustainable learning for your kids and even yourself.
We also break down how to evaluate homeschool learning you’re already doing: How does it look like play? How are you capitalizing on tools, clothing, kinesthetic energy, excitement, and engagement? Does the skill being honed lead to something the kids actually want to do?
If you’re feeling stuck and bored with your homeschooling, or if your kids are feeling that way, this is the episode for you.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Peruse the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all the Brave Writer class descriptions
- Check out the Class Schedule for Fall
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101
- Explore Tools for the Art of Writing
- Read Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness
- Read How Children Learn
- Read Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life
- 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 Media
Chances are someone you know will have a sick child hospitalized at some point. In this episode, Melissa explains how you can best support that parent and caregiver. Melissa herself has had two of her kiddos hospitalized so her suggestions come from lived experiences.
First, Melissa discusses the practical physical items you can bring to a caregiver in the hospital: toiletries, quality food, and a kettle or wand for warm drinks. She also describes some digital gifts that you can send. Then she describes what little acts of service you can do: doing the laundry, lending an ear, and taking care of the siblings of the hospitalized child.
Sometimes caregivers are so overwhelmed or shy that they don’t know what to ask for. If your friend is having trouble expressing what they need, start with the items in this episode and then go from there.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Melissa’s Medical Summary Template
- The embroidery kits mentioned in the episode can be found at cozybluehandmade.com
- Check out libro.fm to buy audiobooks from independent sellers (rather than Amazon/Audible)
- Here are the nice pens Melissa mentioned in the episode: Jetpens.com
- Check out the Brave Writer Practice Pages
- Virtually wonder through the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Check out the Brave Writer Fall Class Schedule
- Join Brave Writer 101
- 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 Media
Leaves changing color, evenings getting chillier–autumn is a wonderful time of the year to turn our attention toward the natural world around us. Today’s episode is all about how to facilitate nature study for your kids.
We cover resources that can help you on your journey. We also give you specific practices you can try out with your family.
Most importantly, we dig into why nature study is so beneficial to educational development and well-being. Remember, if you have nature study projects that you have really enjoyed, please share them with us!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- For all the books mentioned in this episode, check out the Brave Writer Book Shop.
- Learn more about the 1000 Hours Outside platform.
- Learn more about nature studies at JohnMuirLaws.com.
- Check out the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs.
- Read all Brave Writer class descriptions here.
- Check out the Brave Writer class schedule for Fall
- Learn more about Brave Writer 101
- 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 Media
We tend to have a pretty clear idea of what practice looks like for musicians and athletes. But what does practice look like for writers? In today’s episode, Julie and Melissa discuss what writing practice can look like for writers of all ages and developmental stages.
Julie and Melissa describe their own daily writing practices and those of well-known authors. Then they dive into how you can facilitate your child’s practice. They anchor their discussion with the new Brave Writer product “Practice Pages.”
With references to Flannery O’Connor, judgy teenagers, and gleefully vindictive youngsters with the red editing pen in their hands, this conversation is as entertaining as it is informative. Enjoy!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Watch this space for our new Brave Writer Practice Pages—including a sample you can download (available in late October)
- For the books we mention in this episode, check out the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Take a look at all the Brave Writer class descriptions
- Check out the Class Schedule for Fall
- Register for Brave Writer 101
- Listen to Episode 202: “Make It Stick”
- 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 Media
Ever have one of those days where the kids won’t stop bickering, everything seems difficult, and overall there’s just bad energy? In today’s episode, we give you tips and tricks on how to turn the mood around…or at least keep your own internal peace.
We give ideas that are focused on the body: movement and the five senses. We also give tips that are focused on the surroundings: making a small, new setting in your home or even going out to new learning spaces.
For a full list of the ideas we share in this episode, go to our website and download the PDF we have ready for you.
And remember, if all else fails, it’s ok to let the kids watch TV for a little bit while you hide and eat chocolate.
Resources:
- Download our PDF of the ideas we’ve shared in this episode (link to come—we can add it to the doc later)
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Learn more about Brave Writer’s “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook
- Peruse the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Check about all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Click here for the Class Schedule for Fall
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101
- 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 Media
What does it mean to be adultist? Do children have a right to not brush their teeth… or the right not to have cavities? Eloise Rickman joins the show today to discuss her new book, “It's Not Fair, Why It's Time for a Grown-Up Conversation About How Adults Treat Children.”
We have a big juicy conversation about human development, education, societal structures, lived experiences, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
If you’re looking for absolute answers, then this episode isn’t for you. But if you want to hear three homeschool moms discuss how they find the daily balance between guiding children and listening to them, you’re in the right place.
Resources:
- Connect with Eloise on Instagram: @mightymother_
- Check out Eloise’s website: EloiseRickman.com
- Find her book, “It’s Not Fair: Why It’s Time for a Grown-Up Conversation About How Adults Treat Children” in the Brave Writer Bookshop: bravewriter.com/book-shop
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
- Check about all Brave Writer class descriptions
- Click here for the Class Schedule for Fall
- Learn more about Brave Writer’s “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Read the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
- Watch “School Circles”
- 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 Media
The sound of Moroccan Arabic, the smell of dried buffalo chips, the taste of sugary mint tea, the view of an open prairie–in today’s episode Julie and Melissa reflect on immersive learning experiences and how education becomes a part of a person for the rest of their life.
Julie is back from her trip to Europe, having spent a significant amount of her time in Spain. Always the homeschooler, she describes events on her journey that illuminated the true meaning of learning and teaching. She and Melissa discuss the joy that comes from being a lifelong learner alongside adult kids.
As the academic new year begins, this episode is a great way to fall back in love with education.
Resources:
- Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics Programs
- Peruse the virtual bookshelves in the Brave Writer Book Shop
- Read all the https://bravewriter.com/online-classes
- Check out the Fall Class Schedule
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101
- 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 Media
As homeschooling parents, one of our biggest concerns is ensuring our children are ready for college when the time comes (if they choose that path). Today, we’re joined by Elizabeth Christie, homeschooling mom of six, who tells us about how her Brave Writers are now excelling in college.
Tune in to hear how Elizabeth’s kids sailed through college application essays, how her daughter was recruited to be a well-paid student writing tutor, and how her son has excelled as a technical writer.
If you’ve ever wondered about the power of read-aloud time or chunk writing, this is the episode for you.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Check out all the 2024-2025 Brave Writer Mechanics and Literature Program class descriptions.
- Take a look at the Class Schedule for Fall.
- Learn more about Brave Writer 101.
- 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 Media
“Structure” might be one of the most anxiety-provoking words for a homeschooling parent. If you feel like you’re always struggling to achieve structure in your household or if you don’t even know what level of structure is best for your kids, this episode is for you. This episode is a previously recorded webinar about parties. Yes, structure and parties are one and the same in the Brave Writer world.
Julie explains parties are, in fact, highly structured events. They have indicators of beginning, middle, and end stages. They have the clear purposes of reducing stress, increasing interactions between people, and making memories– which happen to be the foundational pieces of deep learning. Don’t worry, Julie also gets into the details of what this practically looks like for homeschooling families.
This episode is full of examples of how to use the party-structure lens in your homeschooling: snacks, candles, games, movement, decorations, music, and more. You’ll be surprised how much easier learning happens with this structure, even if you have to put up with a little more confetti on the floor.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Create a party structure with these Tools for the Art of Writing.
- Find “Becoming a Critical Thinker” in the Brave Writer Book Shop.
- Check out all class descriptions here.
- Take a look at the Braver Writer fall class schedule.
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101.
- 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 Media
Literary analysis shouldn’t be a cold dissection that increases the distance between the reader and the text, but rather a way for the reader to more deeply engage with the text. In today’s episode, Julie lays out Brave Writer’s approach to teaching literary analysis and writer’s craft to your kids. This is a rebroadcast of a training webinar.
Literary analysis and noticing a writer’s craft can start before your child even learns how to read, Julie explains. Daily read-aloud time, with pauses to notice feelings about the text and guess what comes next, builds your child’s critical thinking skills. Literary analysis doesn’t need to be bound to books either–using a remote while watching TV shows or movies can work in much the same way.
Julie then goes through each age bracket, showing how literary analysis can build a deeper love of literature and greater self-awareness.
If you find this episode helpful, be sure to check out our Brave Writer 101 training, where we coach you on giving kinder, more meaningful writing instruction to your child.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Find “Becoming a Critical Thinker” in the Brave Writer Book Shop.
- Check out all class descriptions here.
- Take a look at the Braver Writer fall class schedule.
- Sign up for Brave Writer 101.
- 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 Media
Welcome to Julie’s webinar, “The GPS of Writing: Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling.” Since Julie is taking a short break from the podcast to focus on her newest book, we’re replacing our typical podcast with a broadcast of this webinar.
Throughout the webinar, Julie weaves a metaphor for grammar, punctuation, and spelling: Grammar is the rules of the word-party, punctuation is the decorator and bouncer, and spelling is the personal stylist.
Most importantly, Julie reminds anxious parents that, at the end of the day, what children really need to learn is how grammar, punctuation, and spelling serve their self expression. It’s not about memorizing rules or being perfect. It’s about repeated exposure to meaningful experiences with living literature.
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.
- Check out the 2024-2025 Brave Writer Mechanics and Literature Programs.
- You can find “Charlotte’s Web” and other books in the Brave Writer Book Shop.
- Get free samples of our Brave Writer products.
- Want the digital Brave Writer products professionally printed and quickly shipped to your home? Order physical copies from The Homeschool Printing Company.
- 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 Media
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:
- 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 Media
What’s living literature? What does it have to do with teaching your kids grammar and spelling? Today’s episode is a recording of Julie’s webinar where she explains the heart of Brave Writer’s approach to teaching writing.
Julie explains how immersion in rich, powerful literature is the best way to teach your child writing mechanics. She outlines the Brave Writer process in six steps: Parent reads aloud; student reads to themselves; student keenly observes what they read and asks investigative questions; student tests what they know through copywork and dictation; student corrects their own work; and student free writes.
With specific examples and colorful anecdotes, Julie dives into the details for each step. She also breaks them down by program level: The Quill (5-7 year olds), Dart (8-10), Arrow (11-12), Boomerang (13-14), and Slingshot (15-18).
If you’ve been looking for a distillation of what exactly Brave Writer is, this is the episode for you.
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.
- Check out the 2024-2025 Brave Writer Mechanics and Literature Programs.
- You can find “Braiding Sweetgrass” and other books in the Brave Writer Book Shop.
- Get free samples of our Brave Writer products.
- Want the digital Brave Writer products professionally printed and quickly shipped to your home? Order physical copies from The Homeschool Printing Company.
- 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 Media
Tia Levings was trapped in a high-control religion, experiencing church-sanctioned domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. Her only relief was the Trapdoor Society online message boards where she could discuss big ideas about education and human development.
Years later, she barely escaped with her and her kids’ lives.
Tia joins us today for an emotional, deeply meaningful episode where we discuss our intertwined stories and her new memoir, “A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy.”
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.
- Check out the Brave Writer Book Shop for Tia’s book and all other books mentioned on our podcast
- Learn more at TiaLevings.com
- Follow Tia on Instagram: @tialevings
- Subscribe to Tia’s Substack, “The AntiFundamentalist”
- Watch “Shiny Happy People” on Amazon Prime
- 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 Media
Homeschooling can be isolating, but it shouldn’t be and it doesn’t have to be. In fact, as a homeschooling family, you have unique opportunities to meaningfully connect with all kinds of folks. In this episode, we discuss how to find community as homeschoolers and why it is so important.
We discuss connecting to your local homeschooler advocacy organization, using the internet to find like-minded homeschoolers (and even non-like minded homeschoolers), and coming up with ways to integrate non-homeschoolers into your fun learning experiences.
We also dive into why community is important. Yes, social media can show you some reels of cool project ideas, but ongoing conversations and relationships drive deeper growth. That’s why we created Brave Learner Home. We discuss the Braver Learner Home features and invite you to join!
Resources:
- Join the community at Brave Learner Home
- Watch the Brave Writer Summer Camp webinar replays
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Download our free Summer Games guide
- Don’t miss Brave Writer’s Fall Class Registration
- Listen to Episode 189. Party Schooling with Lise McGuinness
- 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 Media
If you aren’t already excited about the Summer Olympics, the episode is going to get you there. Julie’s passion for The Games is contagious. She shares some of her favorite Olympic memories as well as how she integrated the events into her kids’ learning.
Geography, physics, pageantry, dedication, loss–the Olympics and Paralympics have it all. Throw in some globes, homemade medals, and poetry, and for almost three weeks your home will be a hub of multi-disciplinary fandom.
Go to the Brave Writer website and download the free Summer Games Guide: bravewriter.com/landing/2024-summer-games-guide.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Download our free Summer Games guide
- Make writing more enjoyable with our Tools for the Art of Writing
- Catch the replays of our Summer Camp webinars
- Don’t miss Fall Class Registration
- Read “The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life”
- 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 Media
Lindsay Smith caught our eye on Instagram with all the cool book projects she does with her homeschool kids. We are thrilled she accepted our invitation to be our guest on today’s show to tell us more about them.
We discuss the importance of fun, visual timelines of accomplishments: books read, skills gained, and milestones achieved. Timelines also act as lessons themselves, building summary skills and even historical inquiry chops.
Plus, Lindsay gives us her perspective as a homeschooling mom currently using the Brave Writer Dart program and explains what it is like to be in our Refer-a-Friend program.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Make writing more enjoyable with our Tools for the Art of Writing
- Here’s our free Summer Games Guide
- Sign up for Brave Writer Summer Camp
- Don’t miss the first day of Fall Class Registration on July 22
- Sign up by the end of July for the Brave Writer Training
- Check out the Dart Year-Long Program
- Become part of the Brave Writer Refer-a-Friend Program
- Check out Lindsay’s accordion-fold Dart project at LittleSchoolofSmiths.com
- Follow Lindsay on Instagram Lindsay's IG: @LittleSchoolofSmiths
- 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 Media
Welcome to our fourth episode in our Natural Stages of Growth in Writing series! Today we cover the High School Writers stage, broken up into two parts: The Great Conversation (freshmen and sophomores) and The Rhetorical Imagination (college prep).
It can feel overwhelming for homeschooling parents to teach writing at the high school level, but it doesn’t have to. We talk about keeping it simple: the basic architecture of an essay, deeply engaging with perspectives, and of course, big juicy conversations.
Be sure to check the show notes’ resources section for links to all the writing programs we discuss in this episode, plus links to our free Olympics guide, Fall Class Registration (beginning July 22), Brave Writer Training (sign-up ends July 31),
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention.
- Make writing more enjoyable with our Tools for the Art of Writing
- Read Understood Betsy
- Here’s our free Summer Games Guide
- Sign up for Brave Writer Summer Camp
- Don’t miss the first day of Fall Class Registration on July 22
- Sign up by the end of July for the Brave Writer Training
- Check out the High School Writers’ Bundle
- Learn more about the Help for High School Program
- Buy the Boomerang Year-Long Program (ages 13-14)
- Take a look at the Slingshot Year-Long Program (ages 15-18)
- Don’t forget about the Building Confidence Program (ages 11-12)
- Register for the Reading the Essay class (registration opens July 22)
- 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 Media
Welcome to our third episode in our Natural Stages of Growth in Writing series! Today we cover the Middle School Writers stage, which typically occurs around ages 9-12.
This stage is all about building confidence, instilling in your student that they can consistently express themselves well in writing.
We dive into freewriting practices—generating ideas and writing in short spurts. We also walk through how to do low-stakes revisions to help kids get comfortable with messing with their writing after it is on the page. We also talk about non-writing activities students can do that contribute to their writing skills.
Be sure to check the show notes’ resources section for links to our free Olympics guide, Fall Class Registration (beginning July 22), Brave Writer Training (sign up ends July 31), our Tools for the Art of Writing, and all our Bundles.
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 the first day of Fall Class Registration on July 22
- Sign up by the end of July for the Brave Writer Training
- Here’s our free Summer Games Guide
- Check out the Middle School Writers Bundle
- Learn more about our Building Confidence projects
- Buy the Building Confidence Bundle
- Check out our list of Tools for the Art of Writing
- Sign up for Brave Writer Summer Camp
- View all the Brave Writer Bundles
- 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 Media
Welcome to our second episode in our Natural Stages of Growth in Writing series! Today we cover the Emerging Writers stage, which typically occurs around ages 8-10.
We explain that the key to the Emerging Writers stage is partnership. Parents need to partner with their kids while writing, just like parents naturally partner with their kids while teaching them how to drive a car, or any other major life skill.
We dive into exactly what this looks like, and all of its benefits. Plus, we talk about the Brave Writer Emerging Writers Bundle and the Dart and Partnership Writing Bundle– don’t forget, they’re on sale through the end of June!
Resources:
- Big juicy questions. Memories that last a lifetime. Meaningful ways to learn grammar, spelling, and punctuation. If this way of homeschooling speaks to you, check out our Brave Writer programs: Quill (ages 5-7), Dart (8-10), Arrow (11-12), Boomerang (13-14), Slingshot (15-18). On sale through the end of June. Sale includes a free lifetime membership to Brave Learner Home. Purchase by June 30 to take advantage of this deal!
- Check out the Brave Writer Emerging Writers Bundle, on sale through the end of June.
- Check out the Dart & Partnership Writing Bundle, on sale through the end of June.
- 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 Media
We’re re-recording our Natural Stages of Growth in Writing series! If you’re a longtime listener, you may remember our first series on the topic. It was made up of conversations between Julie and her son. Now we’re recording in an updated format with more lessons learned and observations gleaned over the years.
In this episode, we cover the Beginning Writers stage, also known as the “Jot It Down” stage. This stage actually starts when your baby says their first word and you reflexively write it down. As they grow older and break out into passionate stories like toddlers do, jot down those stories right there in the moment. In this stage you’re teaching your child that writing is simply capturing thought in words that can be preserved for an interested audience.
Julie and Melissa share adorable anecdotes of when they did this with their own children, not only building a foundational concept of writing, but also preserving invaluable family moments.
Be sure to stick around for the end of the episode to learn about the Beginning Writers Bundle and the Quill and Jot It Down Bundle. All are one sale through the end of June!
Resources:
- Big juicy questions. Memories that last a lifetime. Meaningful ways to learn grammar, spelling, and punctuation. If this way of homeschooling speaks to you, check out our Brave Writer programs: Quill (ages 5-7), Dart (8-10), Arrow (11-12), Boomerang (13-14), Slingshot (15-18). On sale through the end of June. Sale includes a free lifetime membership to Brave Learner Home. Purchase by June 30 to take advantage of this deal!
- Check out the Brave Writer Beginning Writers Bundle, on sale through the end of June
- Check out the Quill and Jot It Down Bundle, on sale through the end of June
- 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 Media
Parenting is not just about managing behaviors but about building meaningful relationships that help both parents and children grow. Dr. Shefali, New York Times bestselling author of The Conscious Parent and The Parenting Map, proposes an approach that prioritizes connection, embraces playfulness, and redefines success.
In this episode, Dr. Shefali discusses the essence of conscious parenting, focusing on the parent's mental biases and belief systems rather than the child's actions. We explore the importance of maintaining a playful approach in parenting and education, redefining success based on individual growth, and navigating challenges with empathy. Dr. Shefali's insights on self-awareness, the inner child, and the imposter ego are enlightening and transformative.
Tune in to hear more about these valuable parenting strategies and how they can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful journey for both parents and children. Join us as we delve into the wisdom of Dr. Shefali and learn how to nurture the next generation with love and understanding.
Resources:
- Dr. Shefali's podcast: Parenting and You
- Dr. Shefali's website: drshefali.com
- Go to the Brave Writer Bookshop to buy Dr. Shefali’s book, The Parenting Map
- 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 Media
There are two major pain points in homeschooling: writing and math. Our guest today helps us with the math part. Pat Murray is the founder of CTC Math, which should sound very familiar to listeners as CTC has been an incredible sponsor for many of our episodes.
Pat tells us about the all-too-common trajectory of students: They’re fine with math when they’re very young, then they don’t quite master one skill, then other skills are built on top of that missing skill, then things start to fall apart and students’ entire confidence in “being good at math” shatters.
That’s why Pat has specifically built his online math program to identify those missing skills, explain them in a very clear and concise way, and have the student implement them so they can experience immediate small victories.
Listening to how Pat has designed his program, why he makes all levels available to subscribers, and the stories he’s accumulated over the years is a real treat. We’re so glad he joined us!
Resources:
- Sign up for a free trial at www.CTCtmath.com
- 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 Media
When parents map out the annual homeschooling budget, there’s a tendency to only focus on curriculum. In this episode, we encourage you to prioritize tools that really bring learning to life. Plus, we give you tips on how to get them on the cheap.
We dive into specific suggestion after specific suggestion, mainly grouped into six buckets: Writing utensils, art and handicraft supplies, baking ingredients and tools, science kits, games and puzzles, magazines and field guides.
We also give examples of experiential, rather than physical, tools that are great for homeschool families. We’re big fans of annual memberships to art museums, zoos, botanical gardens, science museums, etc. Volunteering at local theaters or animal centers can be a great way to access fun learning environments.
The right tools make all the difference in having a happy learning life. We hope our suggestions spark creativity and joy in you and your kids!
Resources:
- Find books we’ve mentioned on the podcast here:Brave Writer Bookshop
- Check out our list of “Tools for the Art of Writing”
- Buy the new “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook
- Sign up to attend the free Brave Writer Book Reveal webinars!
- Shop Jim Weiss audiobooks
- 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 Media
Today, we reunite with fellow podcasters and homeschool moms, Maren Goerss and Angela Sizer. We dive into their new book, Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Children and Parents Thrive.
It can be all too easy for homeschooling families to unintentionally replicate the negative aspects of traditional schooling that they were trying to avoid: Cookie cutter approaches, stress, burnout, etc. Think Differently About Learning gives a roadmap for a more joyful approach.
We talk about building an appetite for learning by honoring learning differences, rest, and small wins. Plus, we discuss relying on relationships instead of rules to guide your child in decision-making. Themes of empowerment, pleasure, and wellness weave their way through our discussion.
What Maren and Angela have to say as former traditional teachers and experienced homeschoolers is refreshing, tangible, and inspiring. Enjoy!
Resources:
- Learn more at HomeschoolUnrefined.com
- Listen to the Homeschool Unrefined podcast
- Go to the Brave Writer Bookshop to buy their book, Think Differently About Learning.
- Sign up to attend the free Brave Writer Book Reveal webinars!
- 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 Media
It’s almost time for our annual book list release! Every year we curate a new list of books to be part of our Dart (ages 8-10 ), Arrow (10-12), and Boomerang (12-14) programs. Dawn Smith spearheads this undertaking and she joins us today to describe how she picks which books to be on the list.
The reason the book release is so highly anticipated is because Dawn chooses books that she knows are going to elicit kids’ buy-in, lead to big, juicy family conversations, and give kids tools to tell their own stories.
Dawn and Melissa explain the journey they go on to put together the Dart, Arrow, and Boomerang programs, how they are intentional about centering what is activating, engaging, and flexible.
Plus, stay tuned until the end to learn how to sign up for the book list announcement webinars and the giveaways you may win!
Resources:
- Sign up to attend the free Brave Writer Book Reveal webinars!
- Check out theBrave Writer Bookshop
- Take a look at the Skunk & Badger Dart
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Check out the new “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook
- 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 Media
Hooray! Today’s the publication day of my (Julie’s) new workbook, “Becoming a Critical Thinker.”
If you’re a longtime listener of this podcast, you know that I’m pretty strict about workbooks. They should lead a child to mastery, to embodiment, to knowing the content for themselves.
That’s the approach I took to creating this workbook. I’ve reduced each of the activities to one key point. I've written just enough text for students to get that idea and then to practice it in the activity.
I designed this workbook to help students grow as critical thinkers by turning the focus to their own thoughts. Why do they believe what they believe? What flaws can they notice in their own thinking? How do they reach conclusions?
I dive into all this in-depth in today’s episode. Thank you for joining me on this special day!
Resources:
- Check out the new “Becoming a Critical Thinker” workbook
- Buy the “Raising Critical Thinkers” book
- 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 Media
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, “Fight Like a Mother.”
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:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Pre-order a copy of Julie’s new workbook, Becoming a Critical Thinker.
- 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
- 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 Media
Today we answer a listener’s letter. An excerpt::
My kids craft. All. The. Time. They wake and craft. Hot glue and paper scraps everywhere. Markers and lost lids everywhere. Cardboard everywhere. Currently they’re making some kind of escape room with string strung everywhere like a spider's web.
I let them be and I read aloud for an hour or so, so that our morning starts fun. But then I can’t stop them. And the energy it takes me to try and get them to clean up and then refocus on some math or whatever drains me before I can even begin. I do short (no busywork) lessons but even that they balk at because they just wanna do their own thing that they are on a roll with. And they are ALWAYS on a roll!!
The mess stresses me out…I wonder if you have any caring ideas for the frazzled mom. I wish I loved artsy chaos. I am not my best self in it. I’m exhausted with the struggle of trying to keep some order and also do the lessons we need to do.
We’ve all been there: Trying to wrangle wild, messy children away from what they’re engrossed in and towards a small lesson or two that needs to be done. It can become a daily grind that frazzles and exhausts you, maybe even making you doubt yourself. Today we open the listener mailbag and respond to “Molly,” a mom who is experiencing this and looking for ideas to unfrazzle her life.
First, we talk big picture: Your needs as a mother matter. While you’re finding the balance between letting the children engage in curiosity-based learning and making sure they’re doing what they need to do in order to keep future doors open, don’t forget your own needs for a functional home and life. You matter.
Then we get into specifics. We go over tactics to manage physical space and materials. We cover how to plan and execute activity transitions. We discuss how to communicate, verbally and nonverbally, in order to help your children adjust to changes.
While it’s natural to feel frazzled sometimes, you shouldn’t have to live in a constant state of frazzlement. We hope our conversation today helps “Molly” and all the other homeschooling families out there.
Resources:
- Be like “Molly” and send us your questions! Text us at +1 (833) 947-3684 or email us at help@bravewriter.com.
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
- Pre-order a copy of Julie’s new workbook, Becoming a Critical Thinker.
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
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 Media
Springtime often pulls homeschoolers in what can feel like two different directions. The first is the concern of what needs to be done before the end of the school year. The second is wanting to play outside. Today we cover how to unite the two.
We give ideas of how to incorporate formal education with being outside: Measuring the circumference of a tree, practicing spelling while tossing a lacrosse ball, figuring out change at the ice cream store, and more.
But we also cover how spring is a rich time to develop wonder and observational skills in your kids, beyond just formal standards. Field trips, “look for a color” strolls, and even baseball games can help your child appreciate the world around them and develop lifelong passions.
Resources:
- Check out the Brave Writer Bookshop
- Visit: 1000 Hours Outside
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
- 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 Media
When a lot of people hear “Artificial Intelligence,” they think RoboCop or the Terminator, but Dr. Kelly Cohen thinks about life-saving medical processes. Dr. Kelly Cohen’s startup, Genexia, uses AI to identify coronary artery disease using mammograms. Today he joins us to talk about his AI optimism and vision for the future. Join us as we talk about AI risks, ethics, and regulations.
Resources:
- Follow Dr. Cohen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MostAeroKelly
- Watch Dr. Cohen’s ABC interview: https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/finding-solutions/cincinnati-based-company-using-ai-to-diagnose-coronary-artery-disease-risk-during-a-mammogram
- Watch Kenny Sloan’s “What is Responsible AI?” video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HFFdaYFkMI
- 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
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
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 Media
Hana’s Instagram account, Pepper and Pine, is one of the most beautiful accounts on the internet: colorful, full of books and art. Her homeschooling approach is much the same. Using the Waldorf philosophy, she blends creativity and curiosity into her lessons, keeping them targeted to specific developmental stages.
Today, we have a rich conversation with Hana about the dynamic of learning and growing as a parent while teaching your child at the same time. We talk about the anxiety about gaps in your kids’ education, how to find time to plan lessons, and the joy of seeing them grow into adulthood.
We also discuss the role art and handwork plays in our own lives as adults, both in terms of meditative relief and spiritual growth. The whole episode has the aesthetic of Pepper and Pine: deep, meaningful, beautiful.
Resources:
- Learn more at PepperandPine.com
- Follow Hana on Instagram @PepperandPine
- 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
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
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 Media
Today’s episode is a Poetry Teatime: You drink tea, people pick poems to read aloud, you listen and enjoy them while you're eating a delicious snack.
Of course, since this is Brave Writer, we take time between the poems to talk about our love for poetry and how we use it to teach children about language: similes, imagery, space, expression, connection, and more.
So join us in Julie’s family tradition, which started way back when her kids brought their stuffed animals to the table and believed store-bought cookies were a special treat. Enjoy!
Resources:
- Find our favorite poetry selections on our Poetry Teatime website: https://poetryteatime.com/
- For a list of books mentioned on Brave Writer Podcast episodes, check out our Bookshop: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/podcast-recommendations
- Find out more about Kortney Garrison’s poetry chapbook, Elemental, at Bottlecap Press.
- 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
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
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 Media
At age 20, Brave Writer alum Millie Florence has already published three books. She joins the show today to talk about her writing process, her publishing experience, and what she learned in her Brave Writer classes. Plus, we geek out about Minecraft Story Mode and our favorite middle grade novels.
Resources:
- Buy Millie’s books or schedule a presentation: MillieFlorence.com
- Listen to our first interview with Millie in 2017: Don’t be a Perfectionist & Other Advice for Young Writers with Millie Florence.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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 Media
We often practice compassion for others but hesitate when it comes to compassion for ourselves. Friend of the podcast Dr. Diana Hill joins us today to talk about her newest book, “The Self-Compassion Daily Journal,” and give us some practical tips for practicing self-compassion. We talk about the science of stress in the body, being a connected part of nature, wearing jeans that fit, and much more. This conversation is packed with nuggets of wisdom and insight.
Resources:
- Learn more on Diana’s website: https://drdianahill.com/
- Check out Diane’s books: https://drdianahill.com/books/
- 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
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
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 Media
There’s a big difference between “the game of school” and “the learning game.” Ana Lorena Fábrega picked this up as a kid when she went to 10 different schools by the time she was 15. She learned it again as an educator herself. Today Ana joins us to discuss her book, “The Learning Game.” We talk about memorization vs. applied learning, “pointsification” vs gamification, testing culture vs. curiosity, and the importance of embracing confusion.
Resources:
- Read Ana’s book: The Learning Game
- Follow Ana on Instagram: @MsFab_LearningLab
- Check out Ana’s website: afabrega.com/
- 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
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Good news: There are enough weeks left to do a writing project with your kids that will leave you feeling confident and accomplished this school year. Sign up for a Brave Writer online writing class. Our classes start every Monday, and each one only lasts three to six weeks. Sign up today!
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 Media
The internet has been a great tool for creating community. It has given us ways to connect, commiserate, and even start entrepreneurial adventures. In the 90s, we were just figuring out blogs and message boards. Now, there is TikTok, Instagram, and going viral. Founder of Scary Mommy and She’s Got Issues, Jill Smokler joins us to talk about how being a parent on the internet has changed, and stayed the same, over the years. We talk about our experiences with figuring out what stories to share about our kids, and which to keep private. We also talk about being an entrepreneur, growing older, and parenting adult kids. Tune in and enjoy the conversation.
Resources:
- Jill's website: She's Got Issues
- Her instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillsmokler
- Her first book: Confessions of a Scary Mommy
- Her second book: Motherhood Comes Naturally (and Other Vicious Lies)
- 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
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
Today’s episode is about how to homeschool while you have a baby or toddler in tow. As Julie puts it, “The crux of the issue is, how do I teach math to a second grader when I have a terrorist baby?” First, Julie and Melissa talk about daily routines, like finding pockets of time to teach your older kids while your toddler is napping or when you are all taking a family walk. Then they give specific activities that can keep toddlers occupied. They wrap up by covering a few strategies to involve friends and family, including co-ops, babysitting swaps, and grandparent-led science experiments.
Resources:
- Check out: Susie Allison of Busy Toddler
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
In the realm of homeschooling, the journey from traditional educational frameworks to embracing a homeschooling lifestyle is both inspiring and transformative. This transition, often sparked by a desire for a more personalized and engaging learning experience, is richly illustrated by the story of Mandy Davis, a former traditional education professional who embarked on a homeschooling journey with her family. Through her experience, we uncover the profound benefits of child-led learning, the integration of real-world experiences, and the importance of community support.
Resources:
- Mandy's website: https://www.homebuilteducation.com/
- Her Instagram: @homebuilteducation
- Her Book: A Matter of Principal: A Former School Principal’s Journey to Redefine Education and Bring Learning Back to the Home: https://www.homebuilteducation.com/books-by-mandy
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
In our latest podcast episode, we took a closer look at the tough topic of leaving cults and the importance of thinking for ourselves. We had a deep chat with Sarah Edmondson and Nippy Ames, who shared their brave story of getting out of the NXIVM cult. This episode isn't just about their story; it's about how we all can learn to think more critically and stand up for our own beliefs.
Resources:
- Sarah's book, Scarred: sarahedmondson.com/book
- A Little Bit Culty Podcast: alittlebitculty.com
- Sarah's website: sarahedmondson.com
- Watch Sarah’s TEDx Talk: youtube.com/watch?v=9K_CZbu-UAU
- The Vow on Max: https://www.max.com/shows/vow/9dc0d8ae-fba1-4fd3-9479-c5824fec1421
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available to us today? In our podcast, we delve into the critical need for fostering critical thinking skills in our children to navigate this complex landscape.
Resources:
- Preorder: Becoming a Critical Thinker Workbook by Julie Bogart
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
As lifelong learners and educators in the homeschooling community, we understand that the journey of teaching and guiding our children is ever-evolving. Our recent podcast guest, Joshua Harris, shared his personal journey of growth and transformation, which resonates deeply with many of us who navigate the complex waters of education and parenting.
Resources:
- Joshua Harris's website:joshharris.com and clearandloud.com
- Follow Joshua on Instagram: @harrisjosh
- Preorder: Becoming a Critical Thinker Workbook by Julie Bogart
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
Every writer's journey begins with the spark of inspiration, often ignited during childhood. Favorite books and characters not only entertain but also open the door to the enchanting world of storytelling. For many, including our co-host Melissa Wiley, this early love of reading sows the seeds for a future in writing.
As a published author, Melissa Wiley exemplifies the journey from an avid reader to a professional writer. Her experiences highlight the transition from fan to creator, showing aspiring writers that their dreams of authorship are attainable.
Resources:
- Melissa’s website is melissawiley.com
- Her books can be found at: melissawiley.com/books
- Read: Prairie Thief (Dart)
- Read: Nerviest Girl in the World (Arrow)
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
Today’s episode is about what I call “The 4th R.” Most of us are familiar with the three R’s: Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. But in order for those subjects to click with your kids, you need a 4th R: Relationship.
Everything in your home and homeschool flows from how well you connect with your kids. This episode is meant to turbocharge for putting the relationship you have with your children at the center of your homeschool.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- Want to give your kid the best chance at learning a musical instrument but don’t know where to start? Join Hoffman Academy to get award-winning piano lessons online at hoffmanacademy.com and use discount code LEARN for 10% off!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
The new year brings a perfect opportunity to refresh and re-energize our homeschooling practices. It's not just about sticking to what has worked in the past; it's about bringing in new ideas and approaches. We encourage parents to experiment with different educational styles and activities. From introducing treasure hunts to varying learning methods with workbooks or games, these changes can rejuvenate your homeschooling experience and spark new interest in your children.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Curious about Brave Writer but not quite sure what it’s all about? Join our free 7-Day Writing Blitz to transform your writing program in just one week!
- Want to give your kid the best chance at learning a musical instrument but don’t know where to start? Join Hoffman Academy to get award-winning piano lessons online at hoffmanacademy.com and use discount code LEARN for 10% off!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
In the journey of nurturing the next generation, the importance of instilling kindness and empathy in children cannot be overstated. The concept of teaching kindness extends far beyond mere politeness; it's about shaping compassionate, empathetic individuals who can positively impact their communities. Katie Doughty, a passionate advocate for childhood empathy and the founder of Team Kind Humans, has been instrumental in highlighting the importance of this mission along with her podcast, Raising Kind Humans.
Resources:
- Listen to Katie's podcast, Raising Kind Humans
- Website: teamkindhumans.com
- Instagram: @katie_doughty
- Threads: @katie_doughty
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Want a break from all the school planning you did this Fall? Sign up for online classes with Brave Writer and know your classes will be there when you’re ready. Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more!
- Want to give your kid the best chance at learning a musical instrument but don’t know where to start? Join Hoffman Academy to get award-winning piano lessons online at hoffmanacademy.com and use discount code LEARN for 10% off!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
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
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
We have always been passionate advocates for flexible and child-centered education. With our combined experience in homeschooling and traditional schooling, we've come to appreciate the unique journey each child embarks upon in their quest for knowledge and growth. While this is obviously a homeschooling podcast, we wanted to dive into some of the reasons you might choose to put your kids into the traditional school system.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Want a break from all the school planning you did this Fall? Sign up for online classes with Brave Writer and know your classes will be there when you’re ready. Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more!
- Want to give your kid the best chance at learning a musical instrument but don’t know where to start? Join Hoffman Academy to get award-winning piano lessons online at hoffmanacademy.com and use discount code LEARN for 10% off!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
In our journey of homeschooling, we've discovered that education is not just about textbooks and structured lessons; it's about nurturing a child's curiosity, creativity, and joy in learning. We believe in blending structured education with elements of surprise and spontaneity, making learning an adventure rather than a chore.
Resources:
- Geocaching: geocaching.com
- Bingo Card: bravewriter.com/blh-calendar-template-bingo-card
- Julie's Books: bravewriter.com/book-shop/list/books-by-julie-bogart
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Want a break from all the school planning you did this Fall? Sign up for online classes with Brave Writer and know your classes will be there when you’re ready. Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
In the realm of educational resources, Essie and Hsin-Fu Wu, the founders of Resilient Panda History, aim to fill a neglected niche in the homeschooling world. With a deep commitment to educating young minds about the rich tapestry of Asian American history, Essie and Hsin-Fu, both homeschooling parents, have pioneered a path for inclusive learning. Their innovative approach to education, embodied in their Streams: Chinese American History for Kids guide, stems from a personal journey rooted in passion and a profound understanding of the importance of cultural representation.
Resources:
- Learn more about resilientpandahistory.com
- Follow Resilient Panda on Instagram: @resilientpandahistory
- Listen: Poetry with Janet Wong & Sylvia Vardell
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Want a break from all the school planning you did this Fall? Sign up for online classes with Brave Writer and know your classes will be there when you’re ready. Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
As seasoned homeschoolers and advocates for this unique educational journey, we have experienced firsthand the challenges and joys that come with choosing this path. Our venture into homeschooling wasn't straightforward; it involved navigating skepticism from our spouses and families, balancing our convictions with compassion and understanding.
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 Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
As the leaves turn and the days shorten, there's a distinct shift in the air – it's the cozy season, a time for warmth, reflection, and connection. This season, we're embracing the Danish concept of 'hygge' (pronounced 'hoo-ga') in our homeschooling journey. Hygge is all about creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. It's the warmth of morning light streaming through the window, the comfort of a hot cup of cocoa, the joy of a shared story.
Today we’re delving into how hygge can transform the homeschooling experience. As the season changes, so does the rhythm of our homes and our approach to education. It's a time to slow down, to savor, and to connect more deeply with our children through learning and play.
Resources:
- English Tea Store: englishteastore.com
- Read: The Art of Noticing by Rob Walker
- Read: Outside Lies Magic by John Stilgoe
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: @juliebravewriter
- Twitter: @bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Connect with Melissa:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
- Instagram: @melissawileybooks
- Twitter: @melissawiley
- Facebook: facebook.com/authorMelissaWiley
Produced by NOVA Media
With the holiday season approaching, I’ve been hearing all kinds of advice about boundary setting. As a grandmother myself, I’ve experienced firsthand how relationships and boundaries evolve with adult children over time. I think what’s missing from most modern conversations about boundaries is how important it is to start from a place of empathy, exploration, and open communication. Boundaries should be like fences, not walls— Walls are immovable and permanent, and you can't see through them. Fences can be moved, they can be adjusted, and they have gates that let people in and out.
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 Text Message Pod Ring before Black Friday and Cyber Monday to get our steepest discounts!
- Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
As an educator deeply embedded in the homeschooling world, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of writing when taught as a natural and enjoyable practice. Yet, the essence of our message transcends the confines of any single medium. It's about fostering a love of writing in our children—seeing it not as a task but as a playground for their imagination.
Resources:
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Today, we dive deeper into a topic that holds immense significance in many of our lives: divorce. It's an extension of our previous discussions, and I genuinely believe it's a conversation we need to have. Many of us know someone, a dear friend or a family member, who has experienced divorce. The question then arises: how can we show up for them? How can we support not just them, but also their kids, in the best possible way? This post aims to explore these questions and shed light on the intricacies of supporting loved ones during such transformative times.
Resources:
- Read: Between Two Worlds by Elizabeth Marquardt
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Today's episode dives into the emotional aspect of divorce, especially its impact on children. From my personal experience as a child of divorce and later, as a divorced woman, I hope to shed light on finding stability post-divorce. A friend once encouraged me during my tough times saying, "Julie, keep going. We have cookies on the other side." This simple phrase became a beacon of hope, suggesting a promising life post-divorce. Today, we’ll discuss the emotional layers of divorce to better understand and support those going through it, whether you're directly affected or know someone who is.
Resources:
- Read: Between Two Worlds by Elizabeth Marquardt
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
What do the laundry cycle and the learning cycle have in common? A lot, actually. Today, we apply KC Davis’s take on laundry to homeschooling.
In her book “How to Keep House While Drowning, KC Davis talks about how the goal of the laundry cycle shouldn’t be to have all your family’s clothes clean at once. The goal is for everyone to have clean clothes to wear that day. The goal is to keep the cycle moving.
We think the same concept applies to homeschooling. The goal of educating your child shouldn’t be linear mastery. The goal is for your child to be able to tap into curiosity, knowledge, and problem-solving at any moment. The goal is to keep the learning cycle going.
Lots of “aha!” moments in this episode– join us as we process it all.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- Read How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Have you ever stopped to marvel at the unique skills and knowledge your children possess? Sometimes, they have these fascinating insights about their favorite TV show or a little trick they’ve learned to make the perfect dessert. It’s got me thinking—our children can be our teachers too!
Put your kids in the driver’s seat and watch learning flourish!
Today, we're going to dive deep into the idea of letting our children become our educators and the beautiful transformations this role reversal can bring about for both sides.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- Read: The Nerviest Girl in the World by Melissa Wiley
- Read: Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Representation and diversity in media play a crucial role in shaping the self-worth and perception of children. We're continuing our in-depth discussion with Amber O'Neal Johnston about her book, “A Place to Belong.” We’re delving into the importance of representation, the impact of media algorithms, the benefits of innovative education methods, the significance of discussing hard history, the concept of slow travel and world schooling, and the importance of affinity spaces.
Resources:
- Learn more at HeritageMom.com
- Read: "A Place to Belong"
- Follow Amber on Instagram: @heritagemomblog
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Ways to Make Sunshine by Renee Watson
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
We’re continuing our deep dive discussion into Amber O’Neal Johnston’s new book, “A Place to Belong.” Previously we talked about what led Amber to write the book, having a big juicy discussion around family culture, normalizing difficult conversations, and building a framework for inclusion within the family. We also talked about the different ways books can be viewed through a cultural lens: As mirrors, windows, or sliding doors. Today, we’re picking up the conversation around curating the home library.
Resources:
- Learn more at HeritageMom.com
- Read: "A Place to Belong"
- Follow Amber on Instagram: @heritagemomblog
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Ways to Make Sunshine by Renee Watson
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Amber O'Neal Johnston, the heart and soul behind heritagemom.com and a proud contributor to the Wild + Free homeschooling community, has woven her experiences into a beautiful narrative in her book, "A Place to Belong." An exploration of creating inclusive, culturally rich, and socially conscious homes, Amber's book serves as a rich resource for families across the spectrum. Today, we're diving deep into this narrative with Amber, talking author to author and homeschooling mom to homeschooling mom about the essence of “A Place to Belong.”
Resources:
- Learn more at HeritageMom.com
- Read: "A Place to Belong"
- Follow Amber on Instagram: @heritagemomblog
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Today we’re diving deep into the book “Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning” by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Rodiger III, and Mark A. McDaniel. Both of us were quite enthralled by this read, and for many solid reasons. Let’s explore why this book has made such an impact – and why we can’t stop bringing it up in conversations!
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Meet Rachel Rainbolt, the visionary founder of Sage Family and one of my favorite homeschoolers. With a master's degree in marital and family therapy, Rachel has spent years guiding overwhelmed families toward peace and joy. Living on an idyllic island in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and three spirited children, Rachel embodies the essence of a life well-lived, focusing on gentle parenting, natural homeschooling, and simple living.
Resources:
- Find Rachel’s work at sagefamily.com
- Follow Rachel on Instagram: @sage.family
- Read: Sage Homeschooling
- Listen to the Sage Family Podcast
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Growing Brave Writers is the essential training you need as a parent to be the writing coach your children deserve! Learn more at bravewriter.com/gbw.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Have you noticed the shift from reading novels, newspapers, and research papers to watching 2-minute videos or skimming 280-character tweets? If you've got a student in the house, you might've seen them use tools like ChatGPT, the latest AI wonder, to draft their college papers. It’s like a quick jump from A to Z, bypassing the entire traditional writing journey. The world's rapidly leaning towards the quick and efficient—but are we paying attention to what we might be losing in the process? Let’s discuss.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Enrollment is open for our online classes! Brave Writer 101 is our flagship class, but it doesn’t end there! Learn more at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
In today’s homeschooling environment, misconceptions about learning often cloud our judgments. Key among these misconceptions – one I may be guilty of contributing to – is the belief that struggle is counterproductive to learning. However, it's essential to understand that effort can contribute to an effective recall process. Drawing a line between unnecessary suffering and purposeful effort becomes crucial. Effort, in this context, embodies commitment, focused attention, and stamina, all of which are foundational for effective learning—what we call “retention.” As Julie and Melissa navigate this topic, they will introduce methods of learning that might seem challenging initially but promise richer, more immersive learning experiences with better results.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- We’re starting our Story Switcheroo class right at the end of August! Take class fairytales and flip them on their heads with your whole family. Learn more at https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/story-switcheroo.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
- The book Julie referenced is Make It Stick by Peter C Brown: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/make-it-stick
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
There are days when you feel invincible, ready to conquer the world, and there are other days where getting out of bed feels like a herculean task. I confess, on those less-than-stellar days, I resort to watching bad sitcom reruns, while Melissa disappears into an endless loop of Instagram Reels. Sound familiar? Today, let's dive deep into the realm of motivation, unpack its moral significance, and explore how it meshes with our values and dreams, especially when it comes to our kids.
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- We’re starting our Story Switcheroo class right at the end of August! Take class fairytales and flip them on their heads with your whole family. Learn more at https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/story-switcheroo.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Parenting can be one of life's most fulfilling yet challenging journeys. Josh MacNeill, former teacher and now the CEO of InMind Services, has dedicated his life to understanding child behavior. With certifications in child trauma and multicultural education, he brings unique insights into the art of mindful parenting. This guide, inspired by Josh’s insights, aims to provide you with essential tools and understanding to nurture and connect with your child.
Resources:
- Learn more at inmindservices.com
- Email: Josh@inmindservices.com
- Instagram: @inmind_services
- Facebook: facebook.com/inmindservicesllc
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- It’s Fall class enrollment time! Brave Writer 101 is our flagship class, but it doesn’t end there! Learn more at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Ever found yourself feeling emotionally and physically drained? Do you wonder if what you're experiencing is burnout? And importantly, do you know how to combat it?
Today's podcast continues our conversation with Tanya Tarr, an expert on resilience, to talk about burnout and the strategies we can use to counter it. Be sure to tune into Part One if you haven’t listened to it yet!
Resources:
- FREE Science of Burnout Class with Actionable Triage Tactics
- The Busy to Burnout Index + 4 Triage Tips
- Quiz: (Where Are You on the Busy to Burnout Index?)
- Articles mentioned:
- Group singing as a resource for the development of a healthy public: a study of adult group singing
- When Choirs Sing, Many Hearts Beat As One
- Brain Waves Synchronize when People Interact
- Here Are Two Clear Ways Executives Can Help Close The Burnout Gap
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- It’s Fall class enrollment time! Brave Writer 101 is our flagship class, but it doesn’t end there! Learn more at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
Do you ever feel like your energy reserves are just being depleted, and you can't seem to replenish them? It might be more than just fatigue or exhaustion; it could be burnout.
We had a riveting conversation with Tanya Tarr, a behavioral scientist, columnist, corporate educator, and the founder of Cultivated Insights, who had plenty to say on the subject of burnout. In fact, we had so much to discuss, we had to divide the chat into two parts!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- FREE Science of Burnout Class with Actionable Triage Tactics
- The Busy to Burnout Index + 4 Triage Tips
- Quiz: (Where Are You on the Busy to Burnout Index?)
- Articles mentioned:
- Group singing as a resource for the development of a healthy public: a study of adult group singing
- When Choirs Sing, Many Hearts Beat As One
- Brain Waves Synchronize when People Interact
- Here Are Two Clear Ways Executives Can Help Close The Burnout Gap
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- It’s Fall class enrollment time! Brave Writer 101 is our flagship class, but it doesn’t end there! Learn more at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by NOVA Media
As homeschooling parents, we understand the unique challenges that arise when the academic year ends. Summer is here, and so begins a time without the structure and routine of homeschooling. Our children, the very ones we've been teaching, are still with us, ready to start each day, and they need things to do.
This lack of schedule or routine doesn't alleviate pressure. If anything, it can feel even more intense. There is a different kind of responsibility that comes with summer. The pressure to keep our children busy, to fill their days with creative activities, explorations, imagination, and physical activities like swimming or playing in the backyard, can be immense.
Yet, after a whole year of running the schedule and planning, many of us are burned out. The last thing we want is to shoulder the responsibility of planning a summer full of activities. But that doesn't mean we want our kids to miss out on the opportunities summer can bring.
So, how do we navigate this period? How do we ensure our children make the most of their summer, even when it's not officially "homeschooling" time? That's what we want to explore today. Let's delve into how we can help our kids (and ourselves!) enjoy the summer without letting it become a pressure cooker.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Plan your semester with us this Fall! Skip the registration line, save money, and more! This offer is only available until Friday, July 21st. Learn more at bravewriter.com/online-classes.
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Begin your bilingual adventures by visiting TalkBox.Mom/Brave. Choose your language and use the coupon code BRAVE for $20 off your first box and phrase book bundle. Start talking from day one with TalkBox.Mom and add a whole new language dimension to your brave journey!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Dive into a captivating conversation with our special guest Sarah Collins, a skilled occupational therapist turned homeschooling consultant. I met Sarah, known for her lively and engaging conversations, at the Michiana Homeschool Conference and there began an insightful dialogue about the powerful impact of her work.
Sarah shares her transformative journey from being introduced to homeschooling in 2016 while working with a client, to pioneering Homeschool OT in 2019. She uncovers the rich learning environment homeschooling offers and how this unique educational model motivated her to homeschool her own family.
Ever been perplexed about how to homeschool your children effectively? You're not alone. Sarah shares how she identified with parents who grappled with similar questions. It's this shared struggle that spurred her to use her expertise to consult with homeschooling parents around the globe.
We discuss handwriting, sensory processing, and executive function in the context of homeschooling. Prepare to gain comforting insights that will ease the journey of families with non-traditional learners. Discover more about Sarah and her impactful work at homeschoolOT.com.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Learn more at homeschoolot.com
- Instagram: @homeschoolOT
- Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/homeschooltherapyideas.com
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Begin your bilingual adventures by visiting TalkBox.Mom/Brave. Choose your language and use the coupon code BRAVE for $20 off your first box and phrase book bundle. Start talking from day one with TalkBox.Mom and add a whole new language dimension to your brave journey!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Let’s discuss a topic that I believe is fundamental to the homeschooling journey: persistence. Regardless of where you are in your homeschooling adventure—whether you're still contemplating the idea, just embarking on your first year, already ten years deep, or even approaching your final year—it's essential to understand what it takes to persevere. My most frequently shared piece of advice is a simple but powerful one: "Keep going, keep going." But how exactly does one maintain momentum? How do we cultivate persistence? Let's explore this together today.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Are you are new or fledgling homeschooler who needs some support? Join the waitlist for Jumpstart Your Homeschool with Julie here: bravewriter.com/jumpstart
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
At Brave Writer, we believe that writing is at the heart of education. Our approach is to teach kids to write by reading books they’ll love, and organically – but methodically – bringing up discussions that expand upon how the books were written. The focus of today's discussion is the youngest among us: those just embarking on their literary journey, learning to read and write for the first time.
We’re going to delve deep into the fascinating process of developing the Quill, our groundbreaking educational tool specifically tailored for children aged five to seven. The Quill aims to foster early literacy and numeracy skills, providing an engaging foundation upon which children can build as they learn phonics, handwriting, and basic computation. It goes beyond traditional education methods, inviting children into the world of reading, writing, and math through tactile experiences, thought puzzles, and experiments. This all-encompassing approach has seen the Quill become a beloved part of the Brave Writer program, loved not just by young learners, but older kids who gain tremendous value from revisiting the foundations of literacy.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Shop for our popular Quill, Dart, Arrow, Boomerang and Slingshot programs in June for the lowest price of the year!
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Begin your bilingual adventures by visiting TalkBox.Mom/Brave. Choose your language and use the coupon code BRAVE for $20 off your first box and phrase book bundle. Start talking from day one with TalkBox.Mom and add a whole new language dimension to your brave journey!
- Join our Jumpstart Webinars in June with Julie: blog.bravewriter.com/2023/05/22/jumpstart
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
While the field of reading science is buzzing today with various theories, philosophies, and approaches, Brave Writer's method stands out. Let's be clear, Brave Writer is not a reading program. We don't teach phonics or whole language. We aren't focused on reading instruction, but we do recognize that the ability to write effectively relies heavily on proficient reading skills.
This conversation goes beyond conventional methodologies. Figures like Thomas Jefferson learned to read without phonics, and so can your kids. We explore the essence of our Brave Writer programs. Joining us is Melissa, our co-host and Dawn Smith, the director of publications at Brave Writer, each bringing valuable insights from their respective realms of expertise.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention!
- Shop for our popular Quill, Dart, Arrow, Boomerang and Slingshot programs in June for the lowest price of the year!
- Join our Jumpstart Webinars in June with Julie: blog.bravewriter.com/2023/05/22/jumpstart
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Get ready for an entertaining journey into homeschooling on this episode of our podcast! We delve into an inspiring approach to education that proves learning can be fun, dynamic, and full of joy. This episode features an exciting discussion with our special guest, Lise McGuinness, a veteran preschool teacher and homeschooler with an infectious enthusiasm for what she calls 'party school'.
Don't miss this episode filled with enthusiasm, inspiration, and tons of practical insights on homeschooling with a twist. Lise's zest for learning and her party school concept may just revolutionize your approach to education at home.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Visit Lise’s learning community at freetobeachild.square.site
- Follow Lise on Facebook: facebook.com/freetobeachild
- Follow Lise on Instagram: @freetobeachild
- Shop for our popular Quill, Dart, Arrow, Boomerang and Slingshot programs in June for the lowest price of the year!
- Join our Jumpstart Webinars in June with Julie: blog.bravewriter.com/2023/05/22/jumpstart
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Today, we're going back to the root of it all the ask – and answer – one incredibly vital question: Why homeschool in the first place? Everyone has their own personal reasons, but I thought we could explore the origins of why we began homeschooling in the first place, as well as five reasons we think homeschooling could benefit any child. This episode will resonate with those already in the homeschooling trenches or those contemplating the idea.
Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler considering changes or someone contemplating this path for the first time, we hope our stories inspire you. Remember, you don't need to know everything to get started. All you need is the desire to be home with your kids and learn as you go.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Join Julie for four FREE webinars in June to learn how to homeschool using literature!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
One of the most popular questions we get as a company is to define (or identify) our underlying worldview. Parents who sift through the Internet looking for homeschool programs want to find companies that align enough with their values that they can trust them as tools to educate their children.
There are lots of ways curriculum companies operate. Some align explicitly with a particular religious faith. Some align with a political agenda or perspective—either to the left or right. Others adamantly identify as purely secular—no mention of anything that could be construed as religious. Still others claim to align with common core or public school standards.
There are some programs that opt out of ideology all together—particularly math companies, for instance.
So where on this spectrum does Brave Writer fall?
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Register for the Book Reveal June 1 & 2 webinars!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Meg Maloney is the author of an intriguing memoir, "Slow Your Roll," where she chronicles her transformative journey across Spain on the Camino de Santiago, a renowned network of pilgrimages culminating at the shrine of apostle St. James the Great in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostola. With its spiritual aura, this trail has attracted millions over the years, becoming a beloved route for spiritual seekers, hikers, and tourists alike.
Beyond her role as an author, Meg is a seasoned marriage and family therapist, a loving mother of three grown-up children, and a devoted wife of 30 years. However, through our discussions, a recurring theme was the importance of nurturing one's individual identity and aspirations, a concept I've coined as "awesome adulting." You’ll hear what she discovered about herself on her pilgrimage, how she reacclimated to the fast pace of modern life, and how she’s changed through the process.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Read: "Slow Your Roll: Ruminations & Reflections On My Walk Across Spain"
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Register for the Book Reveal June 1 & 2 webinars!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
In the realm of children's literature, certain authors create captivating worlds that inspire young readers to explore, imagine, and grow. One such author is Anna James, the British writer and journalist based in North London, known for her middle-grade novels series, "Pages and Co." We’re discussing her writing process, the inspiration behind her series, and the value of getting lost in the worlds of books.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Anna James website: anna-james.com
- Arrow for Pages & Co: https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/literature-singles/products/pages-co-the-bookwanderers
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Register for the Book Reveal June 1 & 2 webinars!
- Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to help your young writer finish the school year strong!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Are you a homeschooling parent who has heard about unschooling but isn't quite sure what it means, or whether it's right for your family? Don't worry, you're not alone. Unschooling is a flexible and learner-centered approach to education that encourages curiosity, self-direction, and personal growth. In this podcast, we'll dive into the world of unschooling and share some valuable insights, experiences, and advice to help you navigate this alternative approach to learning.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- It’s that time of year: We’re announcing the new book list for the coming school year! Save the dates, June 1st and 2nd, and sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop at bravewriter.com/news.
- Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to help your young writer finish the school year strong!
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Are you struggling with family drama and looking for ways to create a more harmonious home environment? You’re not alone! We recently sat down with Nedra Tawwab, a licensed therapist and New York Times bestselling author of "Set Boundaries, Find Peace" and "Drama Free," who shared valuable insights and advice on setting boundaries, navigating relationships, and maintaining a peaceful family life. As a seasoned expert in managing personal and family relationships, Nedra offers practical guidance on dealing with personal pain, estrangement, and the importance of preserving the integrity of a child's experience in a drama-free environment.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Learn more at nedratawwab.com
- Follow @nedratawwab on Instagram
- Read: Drama Free
- Read: Set Boundaries, Find Peace
- The Set Boundaries Workbook
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
We know that parents and home educators often feel like they aren't living up to their own ideals, which can lead to a crisis of self-esteem. As we face new seasons in life, our previous skillsets might not always be adequate for the task at hand, leaving us feeling frustrated, lonely, and sometimes like we're failing. So, how do we move forward with courage and clarity?
We're delighted to have Meera Lee Patel on the show today to help us chart a course through the winding maze of adulthood. Meera is a best-selling author, known for her book "Start Where You Are," and uses her colorful artwork and perceptive essays to help us navigate each stage of life and the emotions that come with it. Our conversation with Meera is insightful and uplifting, as she shares her wisdom on embracing the journey of self-discovery and growth with grace and resilience.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Meera's personal journey and the inspiration behind her books
- How to embrace change and adapt to new stages in life
- The power of self-compassion and forgiveness in overcoming setbacks
- Practical tips for maintaining mental and emotional balance during challenging times
Meera's new book, "How It Feels to Find Yourself," releasing on May 23rd, 2023
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights on navigating the various stages of life with courage, clarity, and a strong sense of self. Join us in welcoming Meera Lee Patel to the Brave Writer podcast and explore her wisdom on finding your way through the maze of adulthood.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Meera Lee Patel's website: meeralee.com
- Purchase "How It Feels to Find Yourself" by Meera Lee Patel
- Connect with Meera on Instagram: @meeraleepatel
- Subscribe to Meera’s newsletter, “Dear Somebody”: meeraleepatel.substack.com
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
Do you ever wonder if there are benefits to letting your kids reread, rewatch, and revisit their favorite books, movies, and TV shows? Here, we delve into this practice and its numerous advantages for children and their families, highlighting how revisiting beloved stories can foster critical thinking, emotional growth, and shared experiences.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Book Club Classes:
- Arrow Book Club: https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-arrow
- Boomerang Book Club: https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-boomerang
- Literature Handbooks with reading comprehension questions and book club party ideas: https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/literature-singles
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
In our last discussion, we explored what it takes to feel good about home education and parenting, and we were left with a tantalizing idea: the key lies in habit formation. Eager to learn more, we sent Melissa on a research mission to understand the ins and outs of habit building, both from personal experiences and contemporary habit science. In this episode, we will delve into our own experiences with habit building, explore Charlotte Mason's influence on homeschooling, and examine the latest behavioral science research on how our brains form habits. So, let's get started and discover how we can implement effective habits in our homeschooling journey.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
In the first part of our series answering the question “How do I know if I’m doing enough for my kids’ education?” (which you should definitely listen to if you haven't already), we discussed how to ensure you've done enough preparation and research for your homeschooling journey, as well as how to navigate subject mastery in pre-kindergarten and elementary school to meet the educational requirements. Now, we're excited to dive deeper into understanding "enoughness" for middle and high school students. In this second part, we will explore how to determine what's sufficient for these older age groups and shed light on the third aspect of enoughness: how much daily time should be committed to each subject. Join us as we continue this important conversation and provide insights to help you feel confident and supported in your homeschooling experience.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Podcast: The Learning Benefits of Travel & Taking Big Risks with Blake Boles
- Introducing Teens to Unschooling Liberation with Grace Llewellyn
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Produced by Nova Media
A question that often comes up repeatedly in the minds of many homeschooling parents is: "Am I doing enough?" We know how stressful it can be — we've all been there. We're going to explore three key aspects to help you navigate the world of "enoughness" in homeschooling: what constitutes enough preparation and training for parents, determining enough mastery of subject areas for different age groups, and understanding how much daily activity is needed in each subject area. So, let's dive in and address these concerns together, making homeschooling a more enjoyable and fulfilling journey for both you and your children. This is a two part episode so be sure to come back next time!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Do you wish you were more spontaneous? Or do you think you should “stick to a schedule”? I share an experience I had learning the hard way that planning work best when our kids are included in the process, as well as a novel solution for bridging the gap between planning and spontaneity.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for my Tea with Julie newsletters at bravewriter.com/tea.
- Tea with Julie: Scheduling & Spontaneity: Finding the Balance
- 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
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Have you ever felt anxious about homeschooling and worried that you're not doing enough? In this episode, you'll hear our advice on how to create a well-rounded learning experience for your kids and learn how even the least "schooly" moments can be opportunities for growth. Join us as we explore the idea that every day counts and that it's all enough.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Links to guest content, socials, business, website. Etc.
- Other relevant content links
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more, or text 1-(833)-947-3684 to submit questions or topics you’d like us to discuss on the show!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Are you a parent or teacher who feels overwhelmed by the challenge of helping all of your students achieve their reading goals? Then you won't want to miss today's episode of our podcast! We're thrilled to be joined by Dr. Marnie Ginsburg, the founder of Reading Simplified, a program designed to support educators in teaching an evidence-based system of reading instruction.
In this episode, Dr. Ginsburg shares her insights about why traditional reading instruction often falls short, and how her program offers a more effective and efficient approach. She also discusses the challenges that parents and teachers face in balancing their many responsibilities and offers practical tips for implementing her system in a busy home or classroom.
Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights into the science of reading instruction and the tools you need to help all of your students succeed. So tune in and join us for this inspiring conversation with Dr. Marnie Ginsburg!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Contact Dr. Marnie Ginsburg at: Marnie@readingsimpified.com
- Website: ReadingSimplified.com
- Instagram: @readingsimplified
- Twitter: @readingsimplified
- Free: Switch It! Game
- Join us on an adventure for early literacy with Quill (ages 5-7): bravewriter.com/quill
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Send us ideas for future episodes by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Looking into our analytics, we discovered a surprising fact: Most of our listeners are Millennials or Gen X! In today's episode, Melissa and I will be exploring the unique challenges faced by young Gen-Xers and Millennials who choose to homeschool. We've been looking into generation theory to better understand the characteristics and demands that may be affecting this group of homeschoolers. Our goal is to support and advocate for you, as we think you're awesome and brave for taking on homeschooling. We'll also highlight some positive skills you already possess that will be helpful on your journey. It's important to remember that every generation that has chosen to homeschool has had to defy societal norms, and we admire your courage and imagination. So, let's dive in and explore how different generations have related to homeschooling, and how you can forge your own path that's right for you and your family. Remember to be kind to yourself and give yourself grace along the way.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
- Personality Hacker Podcast episodes: Boomers and Gen X Theory, Millennials and GenZ Theory
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Melissa and I just discovered an interesting coincidence about us: We both grew up as theater kids! Although we didn't pursue theater professionally, we bonded over our kinesthetic approach to home education. Our products, such as the Quill, Dart, Arrow, Boomerang, and Slingshot (affectionately abbreviated to Q-DABS), are designed to incorporate movement into learning. For example, when writing the Dart program, Melissa focused on creating activities that allow children to embody the concepts they're learning. As parents ourselves, we always consider how to keep kids active and engaged while teaching. Research shows that when children use their bodies to learn, they retain information better and have more fun. By creating a dynamic and enjoyable learning experience, kids start to trust that lessons can be interesting and relevant. Come along with us as we share some of the techniques we use at Brave Writer to integrate embodied learning and make lessons more engaging and effective.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Book: On Stage by Lisa Bany Winters
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Try our Semester-Long Dart, Arrow, and Boomerang for literature and grammar activities!
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
The way most of us were taught history can be boring — just a list of dates and events with no relevance. But once you start teaching history to your kids, everything changes, and you wish you could show your kids now what you wish you had seen when you were first learning history yourself.
Today's guest, Emily Glankler, is the founder of Anti-Social Studies, wildly popular TikTok and Instagram accounts and a website by the same name. Her passion and sense of humor make history come alive for your family. With degrees in history and international studies, she's a veteran high school teacher in Austin, Texas, and a love of improv, Emily finds the details of world history and turns them into relevant stories for today’s students.. Emily's mission with her podcast and social media channels is to remind people of the significance of historical events and provide fun and contextualized historical information. We discuss how to make history interesting and engaging for kids and adults — and it’s simpler than you might think!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Emily Glankler is found at: antisocialstudies.org/aboutemily
- Instagram: @antisocstudies
- TikTok: @antisocialstudies
- High School Writing:
- Historical Fiction (Start Date: February 20): https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/high-school-writing-rebellious-history
- Rebellious History (Start Date: April 3): https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/high-school-writing-rebellious-history
- Middle School Writing:
- History Writing Projects (Start Date: March 20): https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/middle-school-writing-history-projects
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Today Melissa and Julie nerd out about writing. We're passionate about writing. We're professional writers! Ergo: we LOVE it! The unique aspect of Brave Writer is that our approach to teaching writing is different from what's typically taught in education or seen in other writing resources. It’s a process that is reflective of the stages a writer goes through when writing and publishing a novel. And when we were designing that program, we felt that the missing element in writing education was love. We discuss the history of the written word that led us to this conclusion, as well as new technologies that may have the potential to disrupt what it means to be a writer.
ChatGPT
- But what about this brave new world of ChatGPT and the dawning of this new AI era?
- Will Melissa and Julie be out of a job?
- Do your kids even need to learn how to write?
- What role should ChatGPT play in our culture and education systems?
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- openai.com/blog/chatgpt
- Sister Wendy's Story of Painting
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Today's episode is dedicated to addressing the number one requested topic: screen time and our children. With the rise of technology and the numerous devices available, it's natural for us to feel overwhelmed and concerned about the impact screens are having on our kids. Do you ever feel guilty about letting your children watch television or use their devices, even though you don't feel the same way about listening to a podcast or audiobook? Our guest today, Devorah Heitner, is here to help us answer our most pressing questions and ease the nervousness we feel around screen time. Devorah is a Ph.D. who studied media, technology, and society at Northwestern University and works with communities, schools, and companies to raise tech-savvy children. She is the author of the best-selling book "Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive and Survive in Their Digital World" and is here to offer practical advice, not add more shame or guilt to our already complex relationship with screens. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn about managing screen time for our children.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Reset your family’s tech habits with Devorah’s FREE 7-day email course.
Special Discount for Brave Writer listeners:
Phonewise: a 4-module self-paced course to prepare you for your child’s first phone. Perfect for the year before a phone or during your child’s first year with a phone.
Resources:
- Read: Screenwise
- Devorah's website: https://devorahheitner.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devorahheitnerphd
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/DevorahHeitner
- Looking for a new math program? Get a free trial of CTCMath.com today to get a free trial.
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
I can’t wait for you to listen to today’s episode!
Today's show marks a new beginning in the Brave Writer podcast. I’m introducing a co-host to the show: Meet Melissa Wiley, a long-time homeschooler, children's book writer, and valued friend and colleague. Melissa has written two highly-regarded novels which we share in the Brave Writer world, "The Prairie Thief" and "The Nerviest Girl in the World," and also works for Brave Writer, writing our Quills (writing program for 5-7) and Darts (writing program for 8-10) and teaching many of our online classes. Today’s show highlights Melissa's unique approach to homeschooling, known as "tidal schooling," a metaphor for the ocean tides. We’ll talk about the ebb and flow of learning using Melissa’s model!
- How do you capitalize on a child’s interests while continuing to keep homeschool lessons rolling?
- What’s the difference between unschooling and tidal schooling?
- Why do we tend to associate learning with effort?
You do not have to homeschool to benefit from the podcast, as much of what we will share are just great parenting ideas. So join in on the conversation and enjoy the new journey into the future as we get to know Melissa!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Website: melissawiley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissawileybooks/
- Prairie Thief: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/the-prairie-thief
- Nerviest Girl in the World: https://bravewriter.com/book-shop/book/the-nerviest-girl-in-the-world
- Hamlet's Soliloquy - Blue Ridge Mountain Accent - Shakespeare's Version and My Hillbilly Translation
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Kids are naturally, wonderfully curious — especially when it comes to their own bodies. It isn't easy to answer curious kids' questions about their bodies with accuracy and to their satisfaction. That’s where the book "Human Body Learning Lab" by Dr. Betty Choi comes in. The author, a Harvard-educated pediatrician, shares her passion for helping children understand their bodies and satisfy their curiosity. Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Choi on how to create opportunities for kids to get to know their own bodies.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Dr. Choi's website: https://drbettychoi.com/
- Human Body Learning Lab: https://drbettychoi.com/human-body-learning-lab-book/
- Get 10% off our Growing Brave Writers program using code GBWPOD10 at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
We’ve often had requests to explore the struggles and strategies of raising neurodivergent children. Our guest, Debbie Reber, is the founder of Tilt Parenting and the author of "Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World." She shares her personal experience of homeschooling her son Asher, who is now an adult, and how she created her own website and podcast to help other parents navigate the journey of raising a neurodivergent child. With more than 20% of children being neurologically atypical, Debbie's goal is to provide support and resources for parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals.
In the homeschooling community, many parents choose home education specifically for their differently-wired children. This was the case for Debbie as well. She believes that homeschooling chose her family, as they struggled to find a suitable educational environment for her son Asher, who is twice exceptional and has ADHD and other neurological differences. Despite initial reluctance, Debbie began homeschooling Asher in third grade and found it to be a transformative experience for both her and her son. It allowed her to get to know him as a learner and as a person and helped her reframe her thoughts around neurodiversity. Debbie's experience highlights the importance of finding an educational environment that truly fits the needs of differently-wired children.
We talk about the different forms of neurodivergence, how parents can redefine their relationship with their child and embrace their own family dynamics, and building support networks to feel seen and heard.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Learn more at: https://tiltparenting.com
- Podcast: https://tiltparenting.com/podcast
- 10 Things You Need to Know About Raising a Differently Wired Child video series: https://tiltparenting.com/10things
- 7-Day Challenge: https://tiltparenting.com/7day
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/tiltparenting
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/tiltparenting
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/tiltparenting
- Read: Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
On today’s podcast:
- Meet Charlotte Mason—who she is and why her method of education was so revolutionary.
- What constitutes living literature and where do we find it today?
- Meet Lean Boden—Modern Miss Mason. How has she helped bring Charlotte’s teachings into the 21st century with our iPads, movies, and video games?
- What’s a short lesson? Why are they important?
- What does it mean to bring your own “breath” or “spirit” to the home education you give your children? There’s a word for it that Leah shares!
Leah Boden is a wife, mother, homeschooler, podcaster, writer, and speaker. She has four children — one who is an adult and the remaining three that are still educated at home. Leah is passionate about bringing learning to life and is committed to modernizing the Charlotte Mason method of education. Her new book, Modern Miss Mason, is published by Tyndale (a Christian publisher), and has wonderful resources and supportive information for any parent. Leah is known for her wise, warm voice in the home education space.
Charlotte Mason was an education reformer and pioneer. Her method of education relies heaving on immersion in living literature, history, art appreciation and nature study. She established an open and expansive vision of learning, and Leah Boden has done an excellent job of modernizing that vision and applying its spirit to the world we live in today. If you want to read more of what Leah shares, purchase a copy of Modern Miss Mason.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Instagram: @modernmissmason
- Book: Modern Miss Mason
- Website: www.leahboden.com
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Parents often don’t see themselves as educators or coaches to their own children or communities. And yet, that’s exactly what they are — or at least what they aim to be. Coaching is a set of strategies you can use when you want to help someone learn and grow. Our role as parents is to enable our children to make good decisions once they are on their own.
Elena Aguilar is a writer, leader, teacher, coach, and podcaster. She’s the author of seven highly-acclaimed books, including “The Art of Coaching,” “Onward: Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators,” and “The PD Book: 7 Habits That Transform Professional Development.” She’s also a frequent contributor to Edutopia, ASCD’s educational leadership, and EdWeek Teachers, as well as the founder and president of Bright Morning Consulting, which helps individuals and organizations create the conditions for transformation. She’s sharing with us the ways we can use coaching strategies to help raise independent, critical thinking children.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Elena's website: brightmorningteam.com
- Listen to Bright Morning Podcast
- Read: “The Art of Coaching”
- Read: “Onward: Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators”
- Read: “The PD Book: 7 Habits That Transform Professional Development”
- Growing Brave Writers: store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers
- Online Classes: bravewriter.com/online-classes
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
The speaker is a Christian and this show features her book that teaches families how to celebrate the liturgical calendar.
In our attempts to find a philosophy of education that works for our families, we can feel batted around by the strong gusts of the latest curricula, the current trends in home education, the program that solved whatever schooling bugaboo over which we agonized. And whenever we seek out advice, it always comes with a mixture of inspiration and guilt. I’m going to share some strategies on how to integrate all of your aspirations without feeling overwhelmed.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Content Warning: The speaker is a Christian and this show features her book that teaches families how to celebrate the liturgical calendar.
Bonnie Smith Whitehouse is a Nashville-based professor at Belmont University and writer. She calls herself a pilgrim not only because she loves to walk, wander, and contemplate, but because when she read Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at Tinker Creek her life was forever changed. She’s a mother of spirited boys, a lover of bird song, a baker of bread, and an amateur painter and hand-letterer.
We discuss her latest book, Seasons of Wonder: Making the Ordinary Sacred Through Projects, Prayers, Reflections, and Rituals: A 52-Week Devotional.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Learn more at bonniesmithwhitehouse.com
- Read: Seasons of Wonder
- December is a great time to register for Brave Write online classes! See out class descriptions here: https://bravewriter.com/online-classes
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
As we’re facing the end of the year — whatever that means to you — I feel like it’s a chance to think about the dynamics of our relationships and the ways that things have changed and yet are also uncomfortably the same. We’re getting through it together, one day at a time. Hug your people, stay present to the moment, and take good care of yourself — because you are the essential ingredient that makes the whole thing work.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Whitney Goodman is the author of Toxic Positivity, a book sharing its release date with my own, Raising Critical Thinkers. She’s a psychotherapist with a wonderful Instagram account, @sitwithwhit, where she offers insightful support to young adults seeking to recover from childhood pains and traumas. She was previously on the podcast in May 2022 where she discussed her book and the downsides of positive thinking.
Lately, Whitney has zeroed in on the challenge of creating healthy relationships between adult kids and their parents. Meanwhile, I’ve been in conversations with my adult friends about how to relate to their Millennial and Gen Z kids as they set boundaries and communicate their pain. We all want connection — but most of us are unsure of how to get it. Together, Whitney and I hope to represent these two generations and discuss how to heal pain and foster connection.
We even do some role-playing!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Whitney's website: sitwithwhit.com
- Read her book: Toxic Positivity
- Instagram: @sitwithwhit
- Podcast: Toxic Positivity & the Downside of Always Looking Up « A Brave Writer’s Life in Brief
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Mary Van Geffen is an international coaching expert for parents of “spicy ones.” She helps people who are highly competent in life but overwhelmed by the challenges of parenting to lean into the discipline of staying calm. She helps them cultivate warmth and tenderness, all while trying to wrangle the fiery future of their tiny future CEOs. We discuss what it means to have or be a spicy child, and how parents can best react to these spirited young ones.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Mary's website: maryvangeffen.com
- Mary's Instagram: @maryvangeffen
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Did you know that Brave Writer was the first online writing class instruction in the homeschool space? We have been pioneers and innovators in the writing world for over two decades, teaching over ten thousand students since then.
Kirsten Merryman is the Director of Online Classes at Brave Writer. She’s responsible for hiring and training each of our 35 writing coaches to ensure that any student that registers with our program gets the same quality instruction no matter who is teaching. She’s going to share with us what makes the Brave Writer program so unique.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Class Descriptions: https://bravewriter.com/online-classes
- How our classes work: https://bravewriter.com/program/online-classes/about-online-classes
- Winter/Spring Class Schedule: https://bravewriter.com/program/online-classes/class-schedule
- Sign up for our Text Messages for special offers and homeschool tips: https://store.bravewriter.com/pages/BRAVE-subscribe-page
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
The holidays are coming, and many homeschooling parents know that there are going to be disruptions to the routine of daily life — so they try to figure out how to maintain that routine instead of allowing that routine to change and adapt to the constraints of this time of year.
Some homeschoolers don’t even bother with finding a balance and they take the month off from education, instead dedicating that time to cookies, music, and family. Others try their best to keep up their homeschool routine, even if that means refusing to participate in holiday activities.
I’d like to offer a third way, a potentially better solution that will allow you to have your peppermint cookies and eat them, too.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get our Cyber Monday Discount Code!
- Our online class program for 2023 opens Monday, December 5th at 12:00 PM Eastern. For 12 hours only, we are putting some of our most popular classes on sale! Visit bravewriter.com/online-classes to learn more.
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
Most parents love the idea of allowing their children to be independent, follow their own passions and interests, and be enriched by them. But not all of those interests are equal — at least in our eyes. What happens when our kids’ interests take them in directions that, to us, don’t seem valuable? How do we direct them toward learning without shutting down their hobbies and interests? Let’s discuss!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
If your year is starting—and it's not going well yet, keep reading. Do you have a nagging sense that you and your child are not on the same page or that your child seems to be struggling and you don't know what to do about it? If so, stay tuned! I’m going to share some practical tips for reestablishing connection with your child, earning their trust, and turning this year around.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
When the staff of Brave Writer gets together, there is always one ingredient present that isn’t planned for but is nevertheless enjoyed: Laughter. In fact, our meetings often run long, to the annoyance of nobody. This is one of those secret ingredients that make the work of Brave Writer shine, though you never get to see it—until now. In my last meeting with Dawn Smith, our head of publishing, I asked out loud “Why aren’t we recording this?” And now, here we are! I want to give you an inside look at the dedication, energy, philosophy, and craft that goes on behind the scenes.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- If you have any questions, reach out to help@bravewriter.com and our team will get back to you!
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
When the staff of Brave Writer gets together, there is always one ingredient present that isn’t planned for but is nevertheless enjoyed: Laughter. In fact, our meetings often run long, to the annoyance of nobody. This is one of those secret ingredients that make the work of Brave Writer shine, though you never get to see it—until now. In my last meeting with Dawn Smith, our head of publishing, I asked out loud “Why aren’t we recording this?” And now, here we are! I want to give you an inside look at the dedication, energy, philosophy, and craft that goes on behind the scenes.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/
Resources:
- Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD
- Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to bravewriter.com/getting-started
- If you have any questions, reach out to help@bravewriter.com and our team will get back to you!
- Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz
Connect with Julie:
- Instagram: instagram.com/juliebravewriter
- Twitter: twitter.com/bravewriter
- Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter
While educating children is a job of its own, many homeschooling parents also have a full-time job or side gig on top of that. You deserve support in all of those roles. Yael Schonbrun is a clinical psychologist, an assistant professor at Brown University, and co-host of Psychologists Off the Clock, a podcast about the science and practice of living well. She’s also the mother of three. Her academic research explores the interaction between relationship problems and mental health conditions and has a brand new book coming out called “Work, Parent, Thrive: 12 Science-Based Strategies to Ditch Guilt, Manage Overwhelm, and Grow Connection (When Everything Feels Like Too Much.” We get into why she wrote the book, how parents can balance the different roles they play in life, the value stress can play in our lives, using your values to guide your decisions, and more. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://www.shambhala.com/work-parent-thrive.html (Work, Parent, Thrive) Yael's website: https://yaelschonbrun.com (yaelschonbrun.com) Podcast: https://offtheclockpsych.com/ (Psychologists Off the Clock) Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
Our guest today is a Brave Writer mom, Emily Norris. She homeschooled her kids, using our Brave Writer program extensively. She and her children have taken online classes and used our writing manuals to boost their skills. She’s also read my books and applied what she learned there to her teaching and parenting while personalizing it to the needs of her and her family. But that’s not the most amazing thing about her. Both Emily and her son are contestants in the third season of LEGO Masters! Season 3 of LEGO Masters features 24 contestants competing in pairs against the show’s most ambitious challenges to date, with the hopes of winning a $100,000 dollar cash prize. We go into the story of how she built a family culture that allowed her son to dive deeply into his passion for LEGO building—and how investing deeply in any subject allows you to grow a rich vocabulary, and develop cross-disciplinary skills as well as a rich, meaningful life. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Interview with Emily and Liam: https://ktar.com/story/5257717/arizona-mom-and-son-duo-competing-on-nationally-televised-lego-masters-show/ (Arizona mom and son duo competing on nationally televised 'Lego Masters' show) LEGO Masters: https://twitter.com/LEGOMastersFOX/status/1573024476459339776 (https://twitter.com/LEGOMastersFOX/status/1573024476459339776) Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
As parents and caretakers, we are often torn between the trust we feel for our children and the worry that something will go wrong. These two are intrinsically opposed: Trust is the act of letting go of worry. That’s difficult to do when so much of parenting is wrapped up in worry—it gives us value. Let’s discuss the risks of trusting your child, the dangers of worrying too much, and some tips on how you can let go of a little more worry. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Sign up for Tea with Julie emails: https://bravewriter.com/tea (https://bravewriter.com/tea) Brave Learner Home Membership: https://bravewriter.com/special-offer (https://bravewriter.com/special-offer) Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
Content warning: We deal with topics of evangelical Christianity and parenting in the United States. While this conversation may be welcoming for some, it could be triggering for others. Despite any personal views expressed by myself or our guest Bekah McNeel, know that Brave Writer is a non-sectarian company that happily celebrates and includes members who hold a wide variety of worldviews, religious beliefs, non-religious beliefs, backgrounds, and political perspectives. Bekah McNeel is the author of https://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Kids-When-Church-Lets/dp/0802882099/ (Bringing Up Kids When the Church Lets You Down: A Guide for Parents Questioning Their Faith). She’s a native of San Antonio, Texas where she’s been a reporter for nine years. Her work has appeared in Christianity Today, The Public Justice Review, Chrisitan Science Monitors, Texas Tribune, and numerous other outlets. She’s a graduate of the London School of Economics where she earned an MSC in Media Studies. She’s also a wife and mother of two very busy boys. Here’s what you can expect in this podcast: Why has Christianity fallen for Millennials and what role do their parents play in that? Should children be baptized as a baby or only when they are old enough to consent? Why does Christianity push us to rely on authority figures—and why do many who leave the church never learn to shed that reliance?
I know this is a difficult topic for many people. Whether you grew up religious and found yourself drifting away from the church, or you are still devoted and find it painful to hear these stories, know that the end goal here is for all of us to be able to move forward together. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Twitter: https://twitter.com/BekahMcneel (@BekahMcneel) Website: https://bekahmcneel.com/ (bekahmcneel.com) Book: https://www.amazon.com/Bringing-Kids-When-Church-Lets/dp/0802882099/ (Bringing Up Kids When the Church Lets You Down) Join our 7-Day Writing Blitz and take your kids’ writing to the next level! Visit https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) to download it Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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Dr. Becky Kennedy is a clinical psychologist and the founder and CEO of Good Inside, as well as a mom of three, and she’s rethinking the way we raise our kids. Her goal: To empower parents to feel sturdier and more equipped to manage all the challenges every parent faces. As home educators, we know that you’ve compounded the challenge of parenting by spending every waking moment (and those rare times you’re actually getting some sleep) with your precious ones. We tackle all the topics from video games to tolerating frustration to thinking through how to deal with a child that expresses a lot of resistance and anger. Dr. Becky Kennedy brings an internal family systems perspective to the job of parenting but offers us so many practical tools. She’s never one to offer advice without breaking down exactly how to implement it in your home. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Learn more at https://www.goodinside.com (goodinside.com) Read: https://www.goodinside.com/book/ ("Good Inside") Follow Dr. Becky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbeckyatgoodinside/ (@drbeckyatgoodinside) Far from the Tree by Andrew Solomon: https://www.scribd.com/doc/112614069/FAR-FROM-THE-TREE-Parents-Children-and-the-Search-for-Identity-by-Andrew-Solomon (Prologue) Brave Writer's Growing Brave Writers was designed with you in mind, and how to connect with a child to produce writing without pain or trauma. Learn more here: https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers (bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers) Purchase one of our bundles or sign up for a class to be added to our Brave Learner community for free: https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/special-offers (bravewriter.com/special-offer) Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: 1 (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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It feels like a natural part of teaching to look at our child’s work and note where it could be improved. Yet oftentimes, giving suggestions can often leave young writers feeling judged, inadequate, or underappreciated. It’s possible to offer your young writer editorial feedback without triggering a meltdown. I’ll share some tips you can use to give your kids helpful feedback that will help retain their confidence and independence. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Growing Brave Writers: https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers (store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers) Find the right Brave Writer program for your kids: https://bravewriter.com/stages (bravewriter.com/stages) Sign up for Tea with Julie emails: https://go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie (go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie) Sign up for Text Message Pod Ring: (833) 947-3684 and text the word POD Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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What’s clear to me is that parents are confusing two important issues. They care about their students getting the appropriate education and so they are prioritizing what they consider the right subjects taught in the right ways through the right programs. Meanwhile the child is resisting. That resistance is expressed as a global unhappiness with the subject or any effort required to address the subject. To create a desire to learn, the child must find the work personally meaningful and useful in some way. Let’s talk about how you can connect learning to something in the child’s current life You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: If your interested in learning more about our award-winning classes, visit http://bravewriter.com/classes (bravewriter.com/classes) Have suggestions for topics you’d like to hear discussed on the show? Reach out to our SMS platform at 1-833-947-3684 and text the word POD to be added to the group and text us any of your ideas, questions, or feedback. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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Note: To kick off the start of the school year, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes. Even, and especially, when a task is easy for us, teaching children a life skill is harder than it seems. As a parent, this can be extremely frustrating. The positives, though, are worth the trouble. Consider this: the sooner our kids know how to help around the house, the sooner they can help us around the house! More importantly, and beyond our own benefit, ensuring they’ve got the most recent software update on self-sustaining skills like tying their shoes and reading a clock provide the daily boosts of confidence and personal growth that a child needs. This comes down to one question we receive again and again when it comes to teaching children. It falls into something I call The Bermuda Triangle of Education. It’s a place where so many of us go wrong, and yet the principles to get out are actually quite simple. There are three parts of this triangle. Our own desire to teach leads us to believe that we should already know how to teach. When a child fails to learn, we pull in the other two aspects of this triangle of doom. Children are smart: they feel the pressure and obligation that parents add to their teaching. These three features: a desire to teach, thwarted by pressure and obligation, lead to the cranky learning experience so many of us are trying to overcome in our homes! Listen to hear exactly where we’re going wrong and how we can approach teaching tasks and tools in a way that helps kids want to use them. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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For homeschooling parents, happiness feels like the lowest level of ambition. When other parents would say “I only want my kids to be happy,” we’d scoff. We wanted our kids to be virtuous, to make a difference, to be leaders in their generation. But we parents have very little control—over our own lives, let alone the lives of our kids. The struggle to become an adult means entering a world of complexity and ambiguity, no matter how much we mothers want to protect our kids from it. I’m going to share a story of when I came to realize that, hey, this happiness thing may not be so bad. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Text POD to 1-833-947-3684 in order to join our texting community and message us any suggestions you may have for future episodes. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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Jennifer Pepito and I have had many wonderful conversations on the https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wild-free/id1209794530 (WILD + FREE) podcast, a community of moms seeking to give their children a beautiful childhood—whether that’s through homeschooling or not. She has a new book out now: https://www.thepeacefulpreschool.com/motheringbythebook (Mothering by the Book: The Power of Reading Aloud to Overcome Fear and Recapture Joy). As parents, it’s common for us to feel afraid of things both big and small. You can read all of the self-help books out there, but one of the surest ways to overcome our fears is to hear the real stories of other moms navigating their own hardships and conquering them. We talk about the lessons you can learn from stories, combating perfectionism in parenting, and moving on from your mistakes. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://www.thepeacefulpreschool.com/ (thepeacefulpreschool.com) Read: https://motheringbythebook.com (Mothering by the Book) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferpepito (@jenniferpepito) | https://www.instagram.com/thepeacefulpress/?hl=en (@thepeacefulpress) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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Some writing programs don’t address the key condition needed to take risks in writing: emotional safety. Young writers need to learn to discover their own thoughts, externalize their feelings, and process what happens to them. Allow writing to emerge that is not read, not evaluated, but that creates space for it to become the writer’s own possession. This will build a sense of emotional safety that makes your young writers more confident and willing to take risks. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/original-thought/products/growing-brave-writers?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9zCl5DO19sF1rnqnhtVVPPOZ3pCFAmvaaHvWsrDBoQio7NGBHS8VPkIGjdVNTg-ZSVsVUyKOYtosMNJNefEzclSroIHw (Growing Brave Writers) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
We’re continuing our conversation with Mosheh Oinounou, a journalist who breaks down daily headlines of the biggest, most relevant news stories on his Instagram. He also publishes a newsletter that aims to share real, verified news sources and hosts a daily news podcast as part of his Mo News Network. We discuss how to come together despite our division, how to handle differences of opinion within our communities, and what to do about our political polarization. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mosheh/ (@mosheh) Subscribe to Mo’s newsletter: https://monews.bulletin.com/ (monews.bulletin.com) Read: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com (Raising Critical Thinkers) Are your kids nervous to jump back into education after the summer? Consider one of our online courses to ease them back into the school year while tapping into their interests. Visit https://bravewriter.com/online-classes (bravewriter.com/online-classes) to learn more. https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-arrow (Book Club: Arrow) is our book club recommended for kids ages 9-12. https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-boomerang (Book Club: Boomerang) is our book club recommended for kids 11-18. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
We’ve been discussing the importance of critical thinking lately, and today’s guest is a perfect example of why it’s so important—and also incredibly difficult. I’m speaking with Mosheh Oinounou, a journalist who has risen to fame on Instagram for his neutral approach to the news, digging into headlines, and discussing social issues. On top of that, he is a fabulous conversationalist, which shines through in this interview. He focuses on verified headlines and is interested in facts above all else. Mosheh’s news-neutral platform welcomes a variety of opinions and is a place for people to learn from each other and recognize where we each come from. We talk about the current wave of news coverage and journalism, why nobody is truly unbiased, why so much news gets turned into “infotainment,” and the difficulties of being unbiased in a social media world. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mosheh/ (@mosheh) Subscribe to Mo’s newsletter: https://monews.bulletin.com/ (monews.bulletin.com) Read: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com (Raising Critical Thinkers) Are your kids nervous to jump back into education after the summer? Consider one of our online courses to ease them back into the school year while tapping into their interests. Visit https://bravewriter.com/online-classes (bravewriter.com/online-classes) to learn more. https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-arrow (Book Club: Arrow) is our book club recommended for kids ages 9-12. https://bravewriter.com/online-classes/book-club-boomerang (Book Club: Boomerang) is our book club recommended for kids 11-18. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
It’s okay to make messes. Continuing our series on the four forces of enchantment, we’re going to take a look at one that might put you on edge: Risk. By allowing ourselves—and our kids—to break rules, make mistakes, and push boundaries, we open up new levels of creativity and expression. And when kids are more comfortable with taking risks, they’re more likely to try new things. It also encourages critical thinking! So get out there and make some messes. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: https://bravewriter.com/tea (bravewriter.com/tea) https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com (raisingcriticalthinkers.com) https://thebravelearner.com (thebravelearner.com) https://bravewriter.com (bravewriter.com) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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How did it go thinking about surprise as a force for good? In our series on the four forces of enchantment, it's time to look at the second force, which is “mystery.” Let’s explore what mystery is, why it’s a critical tool for developing a sense of enchantment, and the ways you can facilitate a sense of mystery in your kids’ lives. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://bravewriter.com/tea (bravewriter.com/tea) https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com (raisingcriticalthinkers.com) https://thebravelearner.com (thebravelearner.com) https://bravewriter.com (bravewriter.com) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
Let me know if this sounds familiar: You’re trying to think about all of the things you need to accomplish, not just in a day, but over the course of your child’s life—from birth to adulthood? Eating, walking, reading, writing, riding a bike, instilling good morals… the list goes on! And homeschooling only adds more of that responsibility onto your plate. It can be so overwhelming. So how do we plan a life that accounts for each child’s personal needs and gets them to the finish line of adulthood well-educated, behaved, kind, and ready to live life on their own? We do it one thing at a time. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Read my blog post on https://blog.bravewriter.com/2010/03/16/the-one-thing-principle-2/ (The One Thing Principle) Join our text messaging service by texting the word POD to 833-947-3684 Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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It’s summertime! Are you planning for the upcoming school year? Whether you’re homeschooling or sending kids to a traditional school, writing is that one skill that so many of us find unnerving. One of the big problems is that your child’s age or grade level doesn’t tell you much about your writer. Writing develops the same way as any other skill: over time, at the writers’ own pace. Over 22 years of working with tens of thousands of students, I’ve developed what I call the natural stages of growth in writing and my confidence in its accuracy has only solidified over time. Today, we’re going to walk through each of those stages: [04:58] Beginning Writers: Jot it Down (5-7) [07:51] Emerging Writers: Partnership Writing (8-10) [10:31] Middle School Writers: Building Confidence (11-12) [15:39] High School Writers: Experimenting with Forms (13-14) [17:29] College Prep Writers: Joining the Conversation (15-18) [19:43] Adult Writers: Fluent and Competent (18 and beyond)
Visit https://bravewriter.com/stages (bravewriter.com/stages) to learn more about how our products and classes are organized according to these stages and find the ones that are going to help you. We are eager to support you! You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Visit https://bravewriter.com/stages (bravewriter.com/stages) to find the right products for your child’s current learning stage If you need help placing any of your children in the correct stage of development for them, reach out at help@bravewriter.com or sign up for our text messaging system by messaging the word POD to 833-947-3684. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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If we want our kids to be open to surprise then so should we be. One of the most difficult parts of any relationship is the fantasy we create in our heads of how it should go as compared with how it really is. We have scripts, we have characters, we have motivations. But sometimes, if we stay open, if we can hold back from projecting our expectations onto the ones we love, we might find ourselves surprised. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: If you’d like to get these Tea for Julie newsletters in your inbox every week, sign up at http://bravewriter.com/tea (bravewriter.com/tea). Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
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Maya Payne Smart is a writer, parent educator, and literacy advocate who has served on the boards of numerous library and literacy organizations. She and her family live in Milwaukie, Wisconsin where she serves as affiliated faculty in Educational Policy and Leadership in the College of Education at Marquette University. At her website, https://mayasmart.com (MayaSmart.com), she provides tips and tools for parents to nurture, teach, and advocate for kids on the road to reading. Maya’s new book, https://bookshop.org/books/reading-for-our-lives-a-literacy-action-plan-from-birth-to-six/9780593332177 (Reading for Our Lives), provides a powerful action plan to encourage and foster literacy skills in children from birth through six years of age. One of the beautiful things about this book is how well her philosophy dovetails with those of Brave Writer. You can download show notes for the podcast here: https://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: Website: https://mayasmart.com (MayaSmart.com) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayasmarty/?hl=en (@mayasmarty) Read: https://bookshop.org/books/reading-for-our-lives-a-literacy-action-plan-from-birth-to-six/9780593332177 (Reading for Our Lives), publishing August 2nd https://store.bravewriter.com/products/growing-brave-writers (Growing Brave Writers) https://bravewriter.com/special-offer (Brave Learner Home Special Offer) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: https://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: https://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: https://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
Does it sometimes feel like your personality and your temperament are at odds with one another? Whether you keep a ship-shape house or you’re relaxed and casual, let me promise you this: There is no one personality type better suited to homeschooling than another. And no one personality type better for parenting, loving, or nurturing. Each has it’s own strengths and liabilities, and the goal is to work to become more self-aware, recognize when we are in our element, and find out what it means to best serve the moment. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: If you’d like to get these Tea for Julie newsletters in your inbox every week, sign up at http://bravewriter.com/tea (bravewriter.com/tea). Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
No one person can balance the needs of a family alone. There’s nothing wrong with prioritizing and taking care of your own needs. I’m going to offer some tips to help you make sure your needs are accounted for. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
It takes courage to change. The moment we make changes in our lives, we feel uncomfortable—maybe even afraid—about how those changes will impact our relationships. Certainty and predictability are comforting, even when that certainty can be a dreaded rush hour commute to work. Yet on the other side of change, we often feel relief. Here’s what’s amazing about change: Not only do we have a right to change our minds, but we can change our attitudes and desires, too. When we make changes in our lives, however, the people in our lives have to adapt to our changes too. That can cause disruption in the relationship. That’s what we’re going to talk about today. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (Raising Critical Thinkers) is Julie’s new book that covers this topic! Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/stages (bravewriter.com/stages) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
We’re continuing our conversation with the brilliant Rita Cevasco! In case you missed out last episode with the owner and creator of https://www.rootedinlanguage.com/ (Rooted in Language), go https://blog.bravewriter.com/2022/06/01/podcast-reading-writing-comprehension-rita-cevasco/ (listen to it now). In this second part, we’re going to dive into practical steps to help your kids learn to read. In this podcast episode, we talk about: the difference in offerings between Brave Writer and Rooted in Learning, who the Pinwheels program is for and what they’ll learn, and how reading comprehension affects kids’ recognition in all areas.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://www.rootedinlanguage.com/ (rootedinlanguage.com) To learn more about Pinwheels, visit http://rootedinlanguage.com/program (rootedinlanguage.com/program). Want a program that’s going to compliment Pinwheels? Check out our new program, the Quill! Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
Learning to read and write is absolutely life-changing, but it doesn’t come easily to all kids. Rita Cevasco is a friend and colleague of mine and the founder of Rooted in Language, a company dedicated to helping parents to feel effective in teaching their kids to read and to handwrite, especially if they struggle with language delays. We talk about what is going on in our kids’ brains when trying to process their thoughts as sounds, identifying reading disorders such as dyslexia, and how parents can set their expectations appropriately about their child’s progress. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: https://www.rootedinlanguage.com/ (rootedinlanguage.com) https://www.rootedinlanguage.com/pinwheels-program (Pinwheels Program) Learn more about the Quill program https://store.bravewriter.com/products/quill (here) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced and published by http://crate.media (Crate Media).
Whitney Goodman is the radically honest psychotherapist behind the Instagram account @sitwithwit, and the owner of The Collaborative Counseling Center, a private therapy practice in Miami, Florida. Her new book, Toxic Positivity, talks about the downside of our cultural obsession with being happy – and how to better embrace and balance all of life’s emotions. Happiness has been commodified. We get sold the idea that, if we do all the right things, we can be rewarded with happiness. But we don’t feel any emotion – good or bad – all the time. Happiness can be part of your experience, but it won’t be all of it. In fact, holding onto happiness so tightly can keep us from pursuing other experiences that might challenge us or force us to grow because those experiences can often be difficult. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sitwithwhit/ (@sitwithwhit) https://sitwithwhit.com (sitwithwhit.com) Purchase: https://sitwithwhit.com/toxic-positivity (Toxic Positivity) Our big book reveal is happening on June 1st and 2nd! Sign up at http://bravewriter.com/reveal (bravewriter.com/reveal) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced and published by http://crate.media (Crate Media).
Today we’re going to talk about motherhood like you’ve never heard it before. I have five grown children and two grandchildren (with another on the way), and have been deeply invested in the wellbeing of mothers and motherhood for decades. It feels as if there’s little left to learn in that space for me. Imagine my surprise when I discovered Erin Lane’s book, Someone Other Than a Mother: Flipping the Scripts on a Woman’s Purpose and Making Meaning Beyond Motherhood, and felt the full richness of myself as a woman, a mother, and a human. This conversation is going to deepen and enrich your sense of womanhood in ways you could not have imagined. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Erin's website is: https://www.erinslane.com/books (erinslane.com) Her Instagram is http://@heyerinlane (@heyerinlane) Order her book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/659757/someone-other-than-a-mother-by-erin-s-lane/ (Someone Other Than a Mother by Erin S. Lane) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced and published by http://crate.media (Crate Media).
Amber Johnston is a brand new author, debuting with her book, A Place to Belong: Celebrating Diversity and Kinship in the Home and Beyond. Her mission is to see all of us celebrate our cultural heritages while also honoring the unique expressions of identity in others. Her book is practical, beautifully conceived, and filled with transparent storytelling that makes you fall in love with Amber and her family. We talk about why she wanted to write it, finding what she wanted to say, how you can find and define your personal and family culture, how to have weighty conversations, and listening to stories with humility. We all come from unique cultures, and it’s our responsibility as parents to pass them on to our children. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://heritagemom.com/ (heritagemom.com) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heritagemomblog/ (@heritagemomblog) Read: https://aplacetobelongbook.com/ (A Place to Belong) The Writer’s Jungle is being retired! Head over to https://store.bravewriter.com/products/the-writers-jungle (store.bravewriter.com/products/the-writers-jungle) to get it at a discounted price until the end of May! Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced and published by http://crate.media (Crate Media).
What do we do with regret? On one hand, dwelling on our past – giving in to feelings of remorse, guilt, or shame – is not exactly productive. But on the other hand, regret is trying to tell you something, perhaps that you’ve been doing things wrong and could stand to make a change. So what do we do with that feeling and how do we channel it productively? Let’s explore. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (raisingcriticalthinkers.com) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
This is a special episode for me: my new book, Raising Critical Thinkers, is now available! I have been thinking about thinking for decades. My bookshelves are full of texts dealing with the big ideas we all excavate, explore, and uncover as we become adults and strive to figure out our place in the world. But when kids are presented with abject facts, they can still look us in the eye and completely deny reality. What it takes to think critically is a skill that’s instantly recognizable in it’s usage, but is much harder to strip down to teachable components. Raising Critical Thinkers is going to help you dial into those experiences without panic, without feeling that you’ve failed as a parent, or without worrying about the influences of social media, peer groups, or other forms of media. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (raisingcriticalthinkers.com) http://bravewriter.com/special-offer (bravewriter.com/special-offer) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Last week we discussed how the path to giving our kids the best possible outcomes in life comes down to some counterintuitive advice: You have to think – and care – less about that outcome. Easy, right? Maybe not. Now that you’ve hopefully bought into the theoretical concept, we’re going to dive into more practical advice about how to apply it. I’m going to offer tips and tricks for caring less and calming down – both for yourself and for your child. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (Raising Critical Thinkers) comes out February 1st, 2022. Be sure to pre-order by January 30th to get an exclusive pre-order bonus! https://lakesidelink.com/training/neurologic/ (Neurologic® Initiative) Read: https://shoplakeside.org/collections/frontpage/products/101-brain-breaks-brain-based-educational-activities (101 Brain Breaks & Brain Based Educational Activities) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free, seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
As parents and caregivers, we all care so much about giving our kids the best outcomes, education, and experiences possible. We’ve probably even spent an inordinate amount of time diving into books, podcasts, consulting with others, and other ways of learning what we think we need to know in order to be good parents. But what if all of that ends up backfiring? What if we end up killing our children by caring? I’m going to share how caring less might end up being the best thing you can do for your child – and yourself. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (Raisingcriticalthinkers.com) Preorder by February 1, 2022 and receive pre-sales bonuses! Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2022 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) Adam Grant’s Top 12 Books for the winter—RAISING CRITICAL THINKERS is one of them! https://adamgrant.bulletin.com/the-12-new-idea-books-to-brighten-your-winter (https://adamgrant.bulletin.com/the-12-new-idea-books-to-brighten-your-winter) A Gracious Space: Winter can be found here. https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/brave-writer-lifestyle-tools/products/a-gracious-space-winter-edition (https://store.bravewriter.com/collections/brave-writer-lifestyle-tools/products/a-gracious-space-winter-edition)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
In our last episode, I explored the difference between setting boundaries and setting rules. I want to continue that conversation because there is so much to tease apart between the two. Part of what makes setting boundaries so difficult is the sense of responsibility parents or caregivers have over their children: responsibility to create a healthy environment, to ensure a solid education – whether at home or at school, and to provide food and a safe place to live. But, in the midst of all of those responsibilities, we can sometimes substitute a personal agenda or dream in its place. There is a difference between having a joyful vision of family life that includes opportunity for growth, and learning, and love versus a specific vision you feel you must protect in order to think you are successful. The only way to have a beautiful outcome in your family is to keep all options on the table at all times. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Welcome to the first episode of a new segment I’m calling “Julie Pep Talks,” where I narrow in on one particular topic and give you my thoughts about it and suggestions you can quickly put into practice. Today’s topic is all about setting boundaries, not setting rules. At the start of a new year, we’re often coming from the combined high of family gatherings, as well as the residual resentment that can come when your closest relatives push your buttons in all the wrong ways. Couple that with the cultural expectation to reform our lives in the form of new year’s resolutions of the year and it makes sense that we’d look at our mental welfare and engage in some relationship hygiene. That means setting the boundaries necessary to have a good relationship with the people in your life. Let’s explore what it actually means to set boundaries, and why, sometimes, what you think is a boundary is actually a rule. The distinction matters. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
This week, we connect with Grace Llewellyn, a staple of the unschooling community who shaped my own homeschooling approach. She taught for three years before leaving the profession to write a classic in the unschooling world: The Teenage Liberation Handbook. The book was published in 1991, when she was only 26 years old, and has been thoroughly updated and re-released for it’s 30th anniversary in 2021. In 1996, Grace founded Not Back to School Camp to bring together unschooled teenagers and it’s still bringing joy around the world, today. After her time in the traditional school system – at a wonderful private school in Colorado – she came to the point where she felt she had seen and experienced too much to ethically continue teaching. She discovered the world of unschooling and quickly realized that it was unfair to rely on parents to introduce their kids to the methodology. She knew what she had to do. We talk about the expectations that come with unschooling, addressing fears parents may have, and the joys of dabbling. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Visit http://nbtsc.org (nbtsc.org) to find out more about Not Back to School Camp Raising Critical Thinkers: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (raisingcriticalthinkers.com) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
-- Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
This interview did not go the way I expected – in the most delightful way imaginable. We wound up discussing the power of travel in a teen’s life! Super fun. Blake Boles is the Founder and Director of Unschool Adventures, and he’s written several helpful books including his most recent title, https://www.blakeboles.com/y/ (“Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School?”) He also hosts the Off-Trail Learning podcast and has delivered dozens of presentations for education conferences, alternative schools, and parent groups. Studying astrophysics at UC Berkeley in 2013, he stumbled upon the works of John Taylor Gatto, Grace Llewellyn, and other alternative education pioneers. Deeply inspired by the philosophy of unschooling, Blake custom-designed his final two years of college to focus exclusively on education theory. After graduating, he joined the Not Back to School Camp community and began writing and speaking widely on the subject of self-directed learning. His biggest passion is sharing his enthusiasm and experience with young adults who are blazing their own trails through life. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://www.blakeboles.com/ (blakeboles.com) https://www.unschooladventures.com/ (unschooladventures.com) Read: https://www.blakeboles.com/y/ (“Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School?”) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
The hardest part of being a homeschooling parent in this era is the pressure of being caught smack dab in the middle of idealism and the Mamasphere. Anne Helen Petersen writes the substack newsletter Culture Study, which I’ve followed for quite some time. She’s a cultural commentator and journalist, and is the author of four books, most recently Out of Office: The Big Problem and Bigger Promise of Working from Home, which comes out in December 2021. We discuss the influence of the Mamasphere and why mothers trust the advice of other moms over experts or professionals. We also delve into the topic of divorce and the concept of Red and Blue Marriage, sharing examples from my life as well as Anne’s. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/). Resources: Subscribe to Anne’s Substack, Culture Study: https://annehelen.substack.com/ (annehelen.substack.com) https://annehelen.substack.com/p/the-ideological-battlefield-of-the (The Ideological Battlefield of the Mamasphere - by Anne Helen Petersen - Culture Study) https://annehelen.substack.com/p/blue-marriage-and-the-terror-of-divorce (Blue Marriage and The Terror of Divorce - by Anne Helen Petersen - Culture Study) Visit http://store.bravewriter.com (store.bravewriter.com) on Monday, November 29th, to find the best deals of the year! Our online class registration opens at noon on Monday, December 6th. Visit http://bravewriter.com/online-classes (bravewriter.com/online-classes) to learn more. Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Even, and especially, when a task is easy for us, teaching children a life skill is harder than it seems. As a parent, this can be extremely frustrating. The positives, though, are worth the trouble. Consider this, the sooner our kids know how to help around the house, the sooner they can help us around the house! More importantly, and beyond our own benefit, ensuring they’ve got the most recent software update on self-sustaining skills like tying their shoes and reading a clock provide the daily boosts of confidence and personal growth that a child needs. This comes down to one question we receive again and again when it comes to teaching children. It falls into something I call The Bermuda Triangle of Education. It’s a place where so many of us go wrong, and yet the principles to get out are actually quite simple. There are three parts of this triangle. Our own desire to teach leads us to believe that we should already know how to teach. When a child fails to learn, we pull in the other two aspects of this triangle of doom. Children are smart: they feel the pressure and obligation that parents add to their teaching. These three features: a desire to teach, thwarted by pressure and obligation, lead to the cranky learning experience so many of us are trying to overcome in our homes! Listen to hear exactly where we’re going wrong and how we can approach teaching tasks and tools in a way that helps kids want to use them. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Picture this, your child asked for, and happily ate an easy and nutritious dish the other day. Today, you prepare the same thing but they’re not interested. They refuse to even entertain the idea. No, you’re not going crazy. And, no, you haven’t found yourself in a rebooted episode of The Twilight Zone. There is a method to their madness, even if they’re not acutely aware of it. Today’s episode of Brave Writer is packed with well-researched methods for bringing your family’s habits and home life back to reality. My guest today is Dr. Natasha Beck, a parenting expert and Founder of https://www.drorganicmommy.com/ (Dr. Organic Mommy), an online resource for non-toxic parenting. She leans on her background in clinical psychology and public health to deliver important information and insights to her tens of thousands of social media followers. She’s a great example of someone doing good with a truly influential social platform. We talk about the variables in a child’s education that go unseen or underestimated, like sleep and eating habits. Specifically, we go over how to get past food ruts and expand their palettes with variety and agency in the grocery shopping process. Not to be left out, every parent’s rival, frustration, goes under the microscope to be dissected into rational bits of wisdom and ah-ha moments. By the end of this interview, you might be convinced that Dr. Beck is the first to have all the answers. Common throughout the episode, though, is communication. One area of the parent-child dynamic that’s always in our favor, subtle communication techniques can make all the difference in any range of issues: educational, nutritional, social, behavioral, and so on. Pick your spots right, and how something is said can be more important than what is said at all. Dr. Beck and I connect on many topics, not the least of which being my mom’s propensity to scan nutrition labels. And JOY – the missing ingredient in childhood nutrition – and a great word to describe this interview. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: Website: https://www.drorganicmommy.com/ (Dr. Organic Mommy) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.organicmommy/ (@dr.organicmommy) Pre-order: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (Raising Critical Thinkers: A Parent's Guide to Growing Wise Kids in the Digital Age) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) Join the Launch Party for the book here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rctlaunchparty (https://www.facebook.com/groups/rctlaunchparty)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
It took decades of researching, writing, and editing to be standing on the precipice of my book launch. Raising Critical Thinkers is now officially available to pre-order! I am thrilled to unleash this project into the world and stimulate a conversation on how we read and discern information – a theme on top of everyone’s minds – and social media feeds. Tune in as I share why Raising Critical Thinkers will nourish future generations of worldly, passionate, and thoughtful learners. Plus: the key dates to put in your calendar to take this community and conversation further. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Pre-order: https://raisingcriticalthinkers.com/ (Raising Critical Thinkers: A Parent's Guide to Growing Wise Kids in the Digital Age) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) Join the Launch Party for the book here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rctlaunchparty (https://www.facebook.com/groups/rctlaunchparty)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
When it comes to politics, keeping your facts straight can feel nearly impossible. It seems as if every outlet has some political bias, and misinformation can run rampant on social media and take hold of millions without question. That’s why critical thinking — especially in this realm — is incredibly important. Sharon McMahon of SharonSaysSo has so much to teach me — and all of us — about government, history, and whales. She’s a former high school government and law teacher who earned a reputation as “America’s Government teacher” amidst the historic 2020 election proceedings for her viral efforts to educate the general public on political misinformation. Through a simple mission to share non-partisan information about democracy, Sharon launched her Instagram account to explain the facts without the political bias and clickbait that often go along with them. Her community of governerds have raised over 1.3 million dollars for people with needs and to relieve medical debt. She’s here to discuss the art of critical thinking. We talk about the importance of unpacking biases, how to identify facts, when to defer to the experts, and how to think like a scientist. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
As we talk about critical thinking, the conversation tends to skew towards teenagers and high schoolers, but you’d be amazed at the powerful wheels turning in the minds of our little ones. We can prime the environment for them to be quality thinkers at as young as preschool or even toddlerhood. Susie Allison has a lot of insight into this age group. She runs the popular Instagram account, Busy Toddler, and she’s created a wealth of experiences for her own children and other families. Busy Toddler has grown up to become a worldwide brand, with Susie authoring “The Busy Toddler’s Guide to Actual Parenting.” She has a degree in Elementary Education and is currently earning her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Follow Susie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/busytoddler/ (@busytoddler) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 and you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Today’s guest is someone of which I’m a huge fan, who lives as a role model for my future, who has hundreds of thousands of followers, and who has even been featured in commercials for GoDaddy. She’s Lyn Slater, the Accidental Icon. She has multiple degrees and lives in New York where she taught social work at Fordham University for 20 years. She’s a fashion icon, but what really sets her apart is her critical thinking. Throughout her academic work and teaching career, she balances creativity with thoughtfulness for learning and education. She’s also a person of integrity and depth. Lyn started Accidental Icon when she had trouble finding a fashion blog that offered an urban, modern, and intellectual aesthetic for women who live what she calls “interesting but ordinary” lives in cities. Women who – like her – aren’t celebrities, but are smart, creative, fashion-forward, thoughtful, engaged, and comfortable with who they are. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Learn more: https://www.accidentalicon.com/ (accidentalicon.com) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconaccidental/ (@iconaccidental) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2021 + you’ll get a free seven-day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Is university a rite of passage or merely a means to success? Or is there even more to it? Could college grow our young adult’s minds and hearts in addition to their thinking and practical skills? Dr. Adam Clark is a professor and theologian at Xavier University. He’s committed to the idea that 21st century theological education must equip and inspire students to live according to the St. Ignatius dictum, “Go forth, and set the world on fire.” During his tenure, Dr. Clark has received many distinctions and awards for his work. His courses contribute to the Jesuit practice of educating students in the service of faith and the promotion of justice. He currently serves as the co-chair of Black Theology Group at The American Academy of Religion, and he is frequently in demand by news programs for his comments on issues related to social justice. Adam speaks from the fullness of his personal, Christian faith as he discusses critical thinking. His concepts, however, are life-giving – no matter which belief system you hold. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with “Brave Writer?” Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the “Brave Writer” newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we have in 2021 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
The Enneagram can be a useful tool for understanding the different ways in which people perceive the world, but how can it apply to critical thinking? Leslie Hershberger has a unique blend of wisdom, practical training, and insight. She has worked with the three-centered Enneagram approach for over 20 years as a consultant, master teacher, coach, spiritual guide, facilitator, and mentor. She’s certified in The Narrative Tradition and in Enneagram in Business and has served on the board of the International Enneagram Association. Leslie talks about how critical thinking shows up in each of the nine Enneagram types. Some of this conversation gets into the weeds of the Enneagram system, but if you stick with it you will come away with a greater understanding of the ways people sort the world. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: https://lesliehershberger.com/ (lesliehershberger.com) Sign up for https://lesliehershberger.com/courses/foundations-of-the-enneagram/ (The Centers Approach Course) and get 25% off using code “bravewriter” Read: “https://bookshop.org/books/the-complete-enneagram-27-paths-to-greater-self-knowledge/9781938314544 (The Complete Enneagram)” by Beatrice Chestnut Peter O’Hanrahan: https://theenneagramatwork.com/ (theenneagramatwork.com) Purchase our Intuitive Homeschool Planning Tool at https://store.bravewriter.com/products/intuitive-homeschool-planning-tool (store.bravewriter.com) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Homeschooling should be an option for everyone. That doesn’t sound like a controversial statement, and yet many of us struggle to make our homeschool right for us and our family. Maren Goerss and Angela Sizer are the dynamic duo behind Homeschool Unrefined, an inclusive and non-sectarian podcast and community all about keeping homeschool simple, real, and fun. These friends of more than 20 years carry a breezy chemistry that bleeds into every topic they touch. They are both former public school teachers with master’s degrees in education and they want parents to know that homeschooling can be less about lesson-plans and more about nurturing the inherent, natural love of learning already within our kids. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Raising five kids during the internet era, everyone is dying to know what my thoughts on video games are! How many hours, how many minutes, how many days? Are they too violent? Is it okay if they love Minecraft? Will they lose all motivation to work? Let’s discuss all this and more! Ash Brandin (they/them) is a middle school teacher from Golden, Colorado. After researching the use of video games in classrooms, Ash found that there was very little research about how games compel people to play, and how this can be brought into the classroom — or any educational environment. Since 2016, Ash has spoken across the country about how academic spaces can mimic game structures to make learning compelling, motivating, and engaging. They believe games, specifically entertainment based games, can help us create better teaching, more engaged learning, and motivated lifelong learners. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
The podcast has been dark for a few months… and for a good reason! Julie just wrapped up writing her newest book (out February 2022). Now that it’s in the hands of publishers, she’s ready to get back to the business of podcasting. The theme for this season comes from the topic of the book: Critical thinking. Let’s peel back the layers and get a closer look at what it means to be a critical thinker. Dr. Diana Hill is a psychologist and podcaster with Off The Clock Psychologists. At the beginning of the pandemic, when so many people unexpectedly had their children at home with them, Dr. Hill discovered Julie’s book “The Brave Learner.” She used the ideas in The Brave Leaner to become a home educator herself. In today’s podcast, Diana talks about how to create a better relationship with ourselves. She has co-authored a therapeutic personal journal that features a practice called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT is cutting-edge, evidence-based psychology that helps people develop psychological flexibility. Psychological flexibility is one of the best indicators of effective parenting, and recent research shows that psychological flexibility reduces the impact of pandemic stress on families and kids. Psychological flexibility involves directing yourself towards your values — even in the face of difficulty and challenges. It takes skills in acceptance, perspective taking, values, being present, stepping back from thoughts, and commitment to become psychologically flexible. The ACT Daily Journal breaks psychological flexibility into an eight-week program that helps people in each of these skills to get present, identify their values, and take committed action in the direction that matters most to them. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts) Resources: https://drdianahill.com/ (drdianahill.com) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdianahill/ (@drdianahill) Purchase: https://drdianahill.com/book/ ("ACT Daily Journal") Listen: https://drdianahill.com/podcast/ (Psychologists Off the Clock) Learn about our Brave Learner Home membership and our special offer at http://bravewriter.com/specialoffer (bravewriter.com/specialoffer) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (bravewriter.com/blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Join Julie today as she talks with best-selling author and award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig. Together, they explore their shared enthusiasm for Shakespeare and how to bring the Bard to life for our children. Learn about memorizing soliloquies, examining Shakespeare’s language, and the details of how Shakespeare’s plays have been preserved for us to enjoy (it’s a great story!). You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
It’s a little thing: that one comment, the nudge in the acceptable direction, the calm and carefully-worded reminder. You had the right tone of voice, the best intentions, the least egregious expectation. And then your child flies off the handle anyway. The resistance, the tongue-lashing, the pushing past whatever small boundary you set—putting on shoes to go to Target, taking the bowl to the sink, not licking the jug of milk with his tongue, not making that scooching sound with his chair... When we face resistance or challenge, it’s so easy to abandon ourselves and declare: I’m overwhelmed! Today’s episode is all about overturning that overwhelm and reclaiming our power—especially for women (though men are welcome to listen along). You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) Cyber Monday: https://store.bravewriter.com/ (https://store.bravewriter.com/)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
When you signed up for the task of homeschooling, you surely imagined what the ideal homeschooling life would look like. This is the life you are fighting for. In homeschool, the vision for natural learning is a powerful draw. It’s also worthy of fighting for that vision. But because it is not natural to many of us and we have this controlling memory of traditional school interfering with our new, fragile vision of what homeschool can be, we often wind up fighting about it more than for it. We’re going to unpack the differences between the two, and how you can focus on fighting for the things you want instead of fighting about them. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
The number one question I get is not how to prepare kids for college, or what you need to start homeschooling, or even about homeschooling at all — it’s about chores. Should kids be assigned chores, should they be rewarded, and how do we enforce them? While we’ve got our little ones home all day, we’ve got to keep our house running and sanitary. We’re not necessarily looking for a perfectly presentable home, but we are looking for order and a sense that yesterday’s mess will not impede today’s progress. Let’s go over three myths regarding chores as well as practical solutions. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/)
Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
How do parents ensure that homeschooling is challenging and rigorous enough for their kids to become smart, successful adults? Many parents are under the impression that rigor is the best version of learning. Education that is rigorous means students are learning more, so many see rigor as a measuring tool for how serious the institution is for learning. But is that really the case? Let’s deconstruct the notion of rigor and see if there is something easier to implement and more effective for learning. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Purchase A Gracious Space: Fall Edition at http://bravewriter.com/gsfall (bravewriter.com/gsfall) Learn more about the Brave Writer Lifestyle: http://store.bravewriter.com/collections/brave-writer-lifestyle-tools (store.bravewriter.com/collections/brave-writer-lifestyle-tools) The Stanford Article: https://tomprof.stanford.edu/posting/1508 ("Why Relaxed Alertness Provides the Optimum Emotional Climate for Learning") Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
I heard from a mom who wanted to know how to shed the fear that her children won’t be ready to enter the school system one day. She wanted to be able to put her kids in school at any given moment—next semester, next year, maybe high school, definitely college. So, let’s talk about the difference between being educated and schooled, being a learner and being a student. Are you worried that you may “ruin” your kids? They may love learning but they will have serious academic gaffes if you keep your kids home. Or perhaps you worry they won’t be socialized or will miss out on school traditions like sports, marching band, prom, and Spanish club. Do you wonder how a child “catches up” if behind in a particular subject area? What happens to the child who wants to enter school but never kept up with math or skipped over science? What if your child is entering high school without ever having studied a foreign language? And finally, how can you tell if you are doing a good enough job at preparing your child for tests, lockers, or self-management in a classroom? The underlying belief that I hear behind this fear is: To be successful in school, you have to go to school for years without interruption. Is that really the case? Homeschoolers have proven for decades that they can enter the school system at any point in time and be successful. We know that in theory, but there’s always the feeling that your child may be the exception. So let’s take this topic one piece at a time and put that fear to rest. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Did you ever think of learning as training your brain chemistry? The goal of skill-building in learning is automaticity, fluency, ease of use. It’s as useful to the child learning to ride a bike as it is the teen learning to think critically. Becoming automatic looks just like ease, skill, or fluency. Think of what it’s like driving: You can sing along to the radio and think about the upcoming election simultaneously, all while changing lanes on a highway at 75 miles per hour. Driving is so automatic that you have the bandwidth to focus on other things—but it wasn’t like that when you were first learning, where just the radio could be a distraction. How can we facilitate this growth of a mind, skill, fluency? How can we train our children’s brain chemistry for learning? The three primary tools that we want to teach children and then build upon as teenagers are the “3 R’s” of reading, writing, arithmetic. These are the tools that help children get at everything they will ever want to know, but we often unload them in the most uninteresting way possible—through a workbook. For novice homeschoolers, teaching from the book seems like the easiest and most approachable way to educate. But what if you looked at the workbooks as a reinforcing tool, not the main teaching tool, and you found ways to convey the power of that subject outside of the book first? Let them have the same excitement for the subject they had when discovering the world. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Are you one of those people that thinks you just aren’t inventive enough to imagine creative learning experiences? We tend to think of creativity as something in the arts or something that is crafted—maybe even cooking, woodworking, and gardening. There’s a belief that creativity is attached to the imagination, and when we hear that word we are immediately thrust into the world of storytelling. It’s hard to summon a different definition for creativity and imagination—but that’s just what we’re going to do. Along with the true definition of creativity and imagination, I will walk you through the five stages of creativity in teaching so that anyone who believes “I am not a creative person” will be able to conjure creative ideas. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
This episode addresses a specific question: What do I do about children who refuse to learn—children who balk, who throw fits, and who are consistently in a bad mood about their educations? How do we address this? What we need to do is step back from insistence and coercion and rediscover the joy of learning—whether that comes through interest or directed school subjects. I will offer you a strategy for how to recapture some of that connection and joy in learning, even in relation to academic subjects. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Ideally, homeschooling as a common interest should be enough to unite us and drive us forward to forge friendships with a variety of people and learn from a variety of cultures. It should, but for many, that’s not how it is. How do you create a healthy, diverse homeschool culture for your local group? What kinds of guidelines, policies, and practices help bridge difference within a homeschool group? Let’s talk about the answers to those questions, as well as why homeschooling became so siloed in the first place and the benefits of a deeply diverse community. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
I have been asked the same question repeatedly over the past 10 years: How do I know if I should get a divorce? And this question has a friend: I am getting a divorce, so what do I do about my children? These two questions presuppose a third question, a bigger question: What’s a healthy home life for children? That’s what we’re going to address, including your marriage, reasons to divorce, reasons not to, and how to salvage or support homeschooling in the midst of all of those dynamics. Even if you’re in a happy relationship and you see no likelihood of divorce, this topic can give some insight into times where you are in conflict and how to be better friends to others in the community going through this. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Read https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JMKTPA (“Between Two Worlds”) https://www.verbalabuse.com/ (verbalabuse.com) Financial planning: https://www.wife.org/ (wife.org) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz) Join the Brave Learner Home: http://bravewriter.com/special-offer (bravewriter.com/special-offer)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Is it possible to work from home while doing homeschooling? This school year is different from any other. We are not going into it with the same sense of confidence or the same tools, resources, and experiences that we rely on to be good homeschoolers. Instead, we’re coming in with a lot of uncertainty amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This has caused parents to think about the fall in a new way, and in addition to the garden variety homeschooler who chose this lifestyle long ago, there’s a new crop of homeschooling parents joining the community. Welcome. In this episode, we will cover what learning is NOT, how homeschooling differs from traditional school, and the essential steps to facilitate learning at home. Learning is not an activity that is confined to just school, and I want to teach you how to make learning a natural part of your life. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: When you spend $198 on any Brave Writer products after July 1st, get a free lifetime membership to Brave Learner Home: http://bravewriter.com/special-offer (bravewriter.com/special-offer) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Millions of families have been forced to educate at home due to the pandemic of COVID-19. Millions of families also educate their kids this way by choice. Whether you are the former or the latter, all are welcome here. In the midst of this pandemic, Harvard Magazine published an article titled “The Risks of Homeschooling,” and I certainly have some thoughts about this. These are my own personal views, and I may push some buttons or challenge some ideas that you have, but I mean to do that. When we are confronted with someone who wants a presumptive ban on homeschooling, I want us to dig a little deeper and discover what this article is attempting to do. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Let’s address this global, unique moment where homeschooling is suddenly center-stage and millions of families are experiencing a lifestyle change that is in some ways similar and in some ways different than the choice many of us made to do this homeschooling project. The move from having kids in school to having their education thrust upon you is creating a serious amount of anxiety, confusion, and disruption to what was considered ordinary life. If that weren’t enough, parents who used to send their kids to school and then drive to an office are now also at home, trying to conduct a 40-hour workweek while they educate their children using a school system that they didn’t create. What I want to do today is look at homeschooling as a philosophy, and looking at the dynamic of what happens when you combine working from home with education from home. It is no easy thing to be confined in your house, to not have access to much of the entertainment and distractions we’re accustomed to, and to be so uncertain about what the future holds. For all of us in this conundrum, I want to talk about ways we can foster learning and play and cooperation while parents are trying to get their jobs done. I’m going to break this up into tips for those of us who are suddenly-at-home schoolers and then some tips for working from home while schooling. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Today’s question comes from an encounter I had at a homeschool conference several years ago. It echoed a feeling I’ve experienced myself in the homeschool space as both homeschooler and homeschool speaker/business owner. And then, as we ramped up to this new podcast season, and I asked for your current questions, the same wish resurfaced. See if you relate to this fundamental heart cry of so many of us. How do I find my people in the homeschool space? Why can’t being a “homeschooler” be common ground enough? We are built to have close ties with other people. When you embark on this lifestyle that challenges the status quo, the need for friends escalates because, let’s face it, it’s lonely in a world of institutional schooling filled with traditions and school mascots. Let’s talk about the ways you can find community, the different ways they break down, and the merits of wide or narrow tents. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
What do you do when your child has no clear passion? When we exhaust the value of the planned learning model, and we pivot to our children’s passions — at least for a season — what do we do when our kids pick passions that look pointless? We say that our kids have no passions, but the truth is they will find things to do. It’s just you may not approve of what that is. It may not look like the education you feel you owe your kids. The truth is: no subject on the planet is isolated from school subjects. Chemists are as likely to work in a medical lab as at Proctor and Gamble improving the power of Tide Detergent. A child who is obsessed with making memes (those ironic images that speak to a current social trend or political reality) requires clever use of language and audience awareness and staying up to date with what’s happening in the news. If you could see the meme-creation differently, you might discover a world of learning happening that you do value. It’s so easy to dismiss what looks like it’s a mere passing craze. But you never know where it might lead! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Download the Brave Learner Companion Guide here: http://go.bravewriter.com/download-the-companion-guide (http://go.bravewriter.com/download-the-companion-guide) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
In this season of the podcast, my goal is to give you a chance to pause and consider ways to improve the experience of learning in your home and in your family by answering questions you’ve sent to me via Instagram, email, and through our customer help desk. One theme is clear as I glance through the list of growing topics: parenting! You want to know how to get your kids to cooperate with the plan or the lack of a plan, how to prepare them for their futures when they don’t seem to imagine life past age 15. You want to know how to help them fall in love with learning, and you want to do it without provoking resistance or anger or boredom or lethargy. So often we believe that the issue we are facing in our homeschools is about learning itself or the subject area (like math, writing, or science). What we are facing, though, is more universal in nature. Even parents of kids who attend traditional schools struggle to get their children to finish homework or to care about their grades or to feed the dog or to brush their teeth and make their beds. We ARE parents. But the question I want us to consider is: do we do an action called “parenting?” Do I do an action that can be described as “parenting?” You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Today’s question will likely feel very familiar to pretty much any parent: “What if you just don’t have the energy to do all the stuff? The magic-making, the planning, the execution of all the tasks? I know what needs to get done, but I just can’t get myself to do it all. Help.” I get it. There are seasons of life that make the ordinary tasks feel like bench pressing a truck. When you’re in a season like that, you can’t imagine ever getting out of it. So, to address this topic, let’s identify a few of the reasons we lose heart or energy for the tasks of homeschooling, as well as some solutions for finding your normal self again. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter to learn about all of the special offers we’re doing in 2020 + you’ll get a free 7-Day Writing Blitz guide just for signing up: http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz (http://go.bravewriter.com/writing-blitz)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Our goal with this season is to focus on your questions, both the questions you’ve been asking Julie throughout this podcasting journey and the questions you haven’t asked yet. https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (Instagram), https://twitter.com/bravewriter (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/pg/bravewriter/community/?ref=page_internal (Facebook groups) — wherever you have the opportunity to reach out, please send a message to Julie about what you’d like to learn during season six of Brave Writer. Today’s question: How do you balance your roles as a parent and a teacher? You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Get Started with Brave Writer by watching Julie’s brand new video series that helps you understand how to use the program at https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started). Each video is only a couple minutes long and will give you the necessary information to determine which level and which products are just right for your kids. If you have further questions, reach out to our trained staff for personal advice and help: help@bravewriter.com Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter at http://go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie (go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie) https://www.bewildandfree.org/book (The Call of the Wild and Free: Reclaiming Wonder in Your Child's Education Book) by Ainsley Arment
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Welcome back, Brave friends! We want to start this season with a big thank you to all of you for helping us achieve an incredible milestone: over one million downloads of the show! We couldn’t be more proud or more grateful. Our goal with this season is to focus on your questions, both the questions you’ve been asking Julie throughout this podcasting journey and the questions you haven’t asked yet. https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (Instagram), https://twitter.com/bravewriter (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/pg/bravewriter/community/?ref=page_internal (Facebook groups) — wherever you have the opportunity to reach out, please send a message to Julie about what you’d like to learn during season six of Brave Writer. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Get Started with Brave Writer by watching Julie’s brand new video series that helps you understand how to use the program at https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started). Each video is only a couple minutes long and will give you the necessary information to determine which level and which products are just right for your kids. If you have further questions, reach out to our trained staff for personal advice and help: help@bravewriter.com Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter at http://go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie (go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie) Join https://bravewriter.com/homeschool-alliance (The Homeschool Alliance)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
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Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
We want to share some exciting news: Brave Writer just turned 20! To celebrate, we will have a slew of wonderful offers throughout the year. You will find all of these deals in our newsletter, which http://go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie (you can sign up for at this link). Our goal with this season is to focus on your questions, both the questions you’ve been asking Julie throughout this podcasting journey and the questions you haven’t asked yet. https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (Instagram), https://twitter.com/bravewriter (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/pg/bravewriter/community/?ref=page_internal (Facebook groups) — wherever you have the opportunity to reach out, please send a message to Julie about what you’d like to learn during season six of Brave Writer. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Get Started with Brave Writer by watching Julie’s brand new video series that helps you understand how to use the program at https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started). Each video is only a couple minutes long and will give you the necessary information to determine which level and which products are just right for your kids. If you have further questions, reach out to our trained staff for personal advice and help: help@bravewriter.com Sign up for the Brave Writer Newsletter at http://go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie (go.bravewriter.com/tea-with-julie) Join https://bravewriter.com/homeschool-alliance (The Homeschool Alliance)
Connect with Julie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/ (instagram.com/juliebravewriter) Twitter: http://twitter.com/bravewriter (twitter.com/bravewriter) Facebook: http://facebook.com/bravewriter (facebook.com/bravewriter)
-- Brave Writer is produced by http://crate.media (Crate Media)
Julie is getting ready to go down to Texas to present at the https://www.bewildandfree.org/frisco (Wild + Free) conference, so today we talk with someone who’s been getting Wild + Free since the inception of this beautiful gem of a community. Greta Eskridge is a go-getter creative entrepreneur with enough projects to keep a team busy! Greta runs a website, a blog, a podcast, is an avid Instagrammer, and has written for and spoken at nearly every Wild + Free Conference. On top of that, she is a second-generation homeschooler to four adorable kids, wife to her artist husband Aaron, and “fur mama” to the family’s rescue dog, Shadow. Nature is Greta’s self-proclaimed “Happy Place,” and she is best known in the home school community for her passion for taking her children into the great outdoors and helping them make nature a source of joy in their lives – and she’s even writing a book about this topic! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ (http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/) Resources: Register for the Wild + Free Conference: https://www.bewildandfree.org/frisco (https://www.bewildandfree.org/frisco) (Feb. 15-16 in Frisco, TX) Learn more at: http://www.gretaeskridge.com/ (http://www.gretaeskridge.com/) Listen to At Home: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home/id1098331677?mt=2 ( https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home/id1098331677?mt=2) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maandpamodern/ (https://www.facebook.com/maandpamodern/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maandpamodern (https://www.instagram.com/maandpamodern) Order Julie’s new book & get your FREE companion guide at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference (https://thebravelearner.com/conference) Join https://bravewriter.com/homeschool-alliance (The Homeschool Alliance) Ask Julie a question: help@bravewriter.com (include “The Brave Learner” in the subject line)
Brave Writer is produced by http://www.podcastmasters.net/ (Podcast Masters)
We are so excited because it is the Book Birthday of Julie’s brand new book, The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life! We’ve heard from a lot of brave homeschooling parents throughout this season of the show, and looking forward, we want to hear from more of you Brave Learners out there: How are you rethinking curiosity, online gaming, or the role of collaboration in your home school – and what does that look like in your unique family? We can change the conversation around education by being homeschoolers who take pride in what we do; we have a contribution to make back into the story of schooling, learning, and education, and this community is here to make it! Resources: Order Julie’s book & get your FREE companion guide at thebravelearner.com Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference Join The Homeschool Alliance Ask Julie a question: help@bravewriter.com
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today we’re joined by five wonderful moms from the CO Springs Homeschool Mamas Group. So instead of focusing on just one question, we’ll tackle one from each of them, representing the wide variety of problems that every homeschooling parent has to tackle throughout their home education journey. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) Learn more about SCALE: https://readwriteact.org/ Join The Homeschool Alliance
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Courtney Moyer, a homeschooling mother of four (plus a young niece), wrote to Julie saying, “The consistent homeschool challenge that has confronted me is homeschooling multiple children at multiple levels, lacking expertise to multitask... It seems that chaos overrides my agenda on most days... I know if I could understand a way to multitask, anxiety would be minimal, creating a hospitable atmosphere that's desirable for my children.” Courtney’s concern is one that almost every homeschooler deals with at some point (really, almost every parent), and our natural inclination is that doing everything requires multitasking expertise. However, that’s not the case at all – especially not in homeschooling! So today, Julie discusses how our traditional notions of education interfere with our homeschooling opportunities – and how you can break free from multitasking to offer all of your children a more complete and joyful education! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Our guest Myah St. John homeschools three children (plus a newborn), and her oldest child, 14, is on the verge of high school. Myah’s always embraced a one-room schoolhouse model for her family, but she finds herself floundering trying to balance high school with elementary school... and as her teenage daughter starts to become a young woman. Why do our children become these people we don’t understand? How do they transform so quickly from a young kid happy to be part of the team to a young adult with their own opinions, wants, and needs – which they are more than happy to share with us, loudly? We don’t always think about this transition in our children’s lives, but eventually, your pleasant young children will become teens, and they’ll start trying to figure out how they can be individuals in a homeschool household. This can be a big challenge, for both your and your child, but Julie is here to offer a helping hand. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Follow the St. John Family on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stjohnfamilyfarm/ (https://www.instagram.com/stjohnfamilyfarm/) Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Jessica Hammond is a homeschooling mother of two who feels conflicted as she tries to spin half a dozen plates. She has a laundry list of passion projects and hobbies, and she wants to be able to devote time and energy on those passions without feeling guilty. “I want to be present and engaged with my kids during our days. But I also want to accomplish interesting projects of my own. And right now, it feels a constant tug of war between the two, Jessica says. “How can I adjust my mindset and trust that I really am going to get enough time for all of it?” Sound familiar? With your various roles as a parent, spouse, and home educator, have you ever stopped and wondered where your own personal fulfillment fits in? How to nurture your Awesome Adult self? If so, then our talk with Jessica will help you, too. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Sign up for The Brave Learner Conference (July 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, OH): https://thebravelearner.com/conference Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Jardel Manalo is a homeschooling mother of five, ranging from the ages of two to 12, who also opened her school doors to a wonderful 12-year-old young woman named Samantha. That’s a lot of children at a lot of different stages in life – a situation we know many of you can relate to – and that can create a lot of pressure for us to perform, both as parents and teachers. Jardel says, “I don't feel like I am able to connect with each of my children daily, both personally and academically ... Is this ok? Often, it leaves me feeling like such a failure because I'm failing at connecting with some of the kids ALL the time.” You’re not a failure, Jardel, and neither are any of you reading – but for your own sanity, you might need to adjust your expectations. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Karen Goldstein and her son Elijah are struggling with the difficult transition into high school. It can be a challenge to fit in the oftentimes-rigorous high school work while still allowing breathing room for a laid-back, enjoyable lifestyle – and holding on to the love of learning throughout it all! “More subjects leaves less time for in-depth exploration, field trips, time in nature, rabbit trails, and down time. I miss that. There is only so much time in a given day. We are both working harder than ever,” Karen says. “Working hard isn't a bad thing but I am wondering how to make high school feel smoother?” You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today’s guest, Jennifer Hunter, is a mother struggling with a problem that afflicts many homeschooling parents. Jennifer says, “My homeschool challenge is that I am lonely! My kids are all young, and while I am honoured to be spending my days helping them learn, it isn’t always stimulating for me.” We expect this is something that every homeschooling parent experiences at one point or another. We all love our kids, of course, but it can be difficult to connect with other families, or even just our personal friends, when they operate on a completely different schedule. But it’s also really important that we do because community is a critical part of our mental health! Luckily, though, Julie has been there and done that, and she has some great tips for finding communities online and in your area. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Looking to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
There’s a dilemma that plagues every homeschooling parent’s mind at some point in their journey, filling threads online and conversations in person: How can we make learning fun? And then the natural follow up question comes up: Do we have to make learning fun? Because the truth is that education won’t be fun 100 percent of the time. This is the dilemma brought to us by our guest Anne Trott, who asked how she can push through these challenging moments and teach perseverance, without hurting her relationship or connection with her kids. It’s a fine line some days, but Julie has some advice to guide you through the difficult days! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Want to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Jenniver Vetter is a brave mother of six who has been homeschooling for nine years. She has embraced the emphasis on relationship and freedom in learning that homeschooling offers, but she worries that her children also need to learn skills that don’t lend themselves as easily to fort building and play. Jennifer asked, “How do I balance the love and creative side of learning with the nuts, bolts and rules side of learning?” We know this is a big question in the Brave Writer community, but Julie has a few ideas for how homeschoolers can meet both of those goals. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Want to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
In this day and age, we are so connected to technology. We carry these magic little screens with us everywhere – and if you’re anything like us, it can start to feel like a third arm! We use them for work and for entertainment, and when our kids see us using these tools, they want to use them too. But what is too much screen time for our children, and what is an appropriate use of that time? Today we’re going to explore those questions with our guest Lindsay McCarthy, a homeschooling mother of a boy and a girl ages nine and five. Lindsay also runs a Facebook community called The Miracle Morning for Parents and Families. When Lindsay reached out for help, she said, “One of my biggest struggles is how to help my kids love to read when they are bombarded with easier ways of entertainment and fact-finding due to technology. “We have a limit for them of 2 hours of screen time a day, but often get complaints from them when we enforce that rule. I'd love some tips on how to balance technology in our homeschool.” So how do we foster a family culture that values what technology offers, without allowing it to take over? Listen to find out. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Please consider donating to Tammy Kim and family, survivors of the Camp Fire in CA. They’ve lost their home and everything in it. gofundme.com/tammykimfund Join The Miracle Morning for PARENTS & FAMILIES Community on Facebook Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Want to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today we’re going to talk to a brave mother who wants to support her children’s dreams, is inspired by everything she’s learned about on Brave Writer... but feels stumped. She wants her family to be immersed in a culture of learning, without always being in “school mode,” but she’s struggling to figure out how. That brave mother is Christa Gregg, a homeschool mother of three children with a Master’s degree in social work and a background in counseling. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Preorder Julie’s upcoming book at http://thebravelearner.com/ (thebravelearner.com) (releasing Feb. 5th, 2019) Want to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Over the past four seasons, our help inbox has been flooded with What Abouts: What about the kid who won’t work hard? What about college? What about chores? There are vexing dilemmas that come up in a lot of our home education journeys, and they can lead to a lot of questions and self-doubt. Homeschooling is hard! We get it, and we’re here to help. So we’re calling this season Ask Julie because Julie Bogart is here to help you figure these questions out, while discussing all the ways you can improve your experience of being home with your kids! We’d like to thank the wonderful parents who have given us permission to see the insides of their family lives. It’s incredibly brave to expose their insecurities and feelings of inadequacy so that we can grow together, and we’re honored that they shared their time. So each episode of this season will feature a parent’s or a group of parents’ dilemma, their conversation with Julie, and a follow-up communication sharing how it all turned out. If you’re thinking that all sounds wonderful, but how can I get all of these ideas in one convenient place – well, you’re in luck! Julie has a new book coming out, The Brave Learner: Finding Everyday Magic in Homeschool, Learning, and Life, which will be published on February 5th, 2019. So let’s meet our first parent, Tammy Kim, who brings forward one of the most common and vexing of homeschool dilemmas: she is experiencing a sense of overwhelm and worry over her effectiveness as a homeschool educator! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Want help getting started with Brave Writer? Head over to https://bravewriter.com/getting-started (bravewriter.com/getting-started) Learn more about Julie’s new book at thebravelearner.com Want to kickstart your writing program this school year? Download the FREE 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Our guest MacKenzie Koppa (aka Bold Turquoise) is the creator of a slew of resources for families: the Cultivating the Lovely podcast, the Lovely Homeschool online course, and the brand new The Same Page podcast. http://boldturquoise.com/thesamepage/ (The Same Page) is practically designed with Brave Writer families in mind. The core of each episode is memory work encompassing poetry, Shakespeare, historical facts, and scripture. So in five minutes or less, you can get a spoonful of great literature and, over the course of multiple episodes, you and your family can memorize them while enjoying a shared experience. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Learn more at http://boldturquoise.com/ (boldturquoise.com) Connect with Mackenzie: Instagram | Twitter Listen to The Same Page Listen to Cultivating the Lovely Read: The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Homeschooling changes when you transition into the scary world of teenagers, so today I want to discuss teens in general and what you can expect from a homeschool with teenagers. After home births, breastfeeding, babywearing, cosleeping, and having a wonderfully close relationship with her young children, Julie thought that she would seamlessly move into the teen years and escape all of the weirdness that other families talk about. Their family was so tuned in, so it was going to be different. Then Julie had a rude awakening! But even if there are difficult and distant moments, hold onto the memories of when you were close and know that you will be close again – you just have to weather the storm. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Check out this free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Before Julie started Brave Writer, she worked as a freelance writer, freelance magazine editor, and a ghostwriter – which is to say, yes, you can simultaneously pursue a dream or passion and homeschool! Whether you want to earn money, go to grad school, start a business, or write a blog, you can do that and still be a phenomenal homeschooling parent. In today’s episode, Julie shares some of her experiences in developing a working lifestyle, as well as what it feels like to earn money while being a woman and a home educator. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Check out this free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
After working with parents for years, we have learned that there is often a reluctance to giving your own efforts to your child’s writing. But kids with parents who are involved in their education get better grades, and as a result, they feel more successful – and children who receive no support end up performing worse. Because parental involvement in education is what produces the greatest results in children! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Check out this free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
There’s a difference between correct writing and good writing. You can check off all the boxes and put together a series of grammatically correct sentences, but does that engage the reader and make them want to keep reading? Probably not! Even academic writing, at its best, should compel the reader – that’s it’s #1 job! But many popular writing curricula keep perpetuating myths about good writing, and today we’re going to bust them! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Check out this free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
One of Julie’s most popular talks is called “Updating Charlotte Mason to the 21st Century,” so when she stumbled upon Leah Boden – AKA Modern Miss Mason – Julie knew that she had found a kindred spirit. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Learn more about Modern Miss Mason Connect with Leah on Instagram: @leahvboden | @modernmissmason Facebook: facebook.com/modernmissmason Read: For the Children's Sake: Foundations of Education for Home and School by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Check out this free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Imagine this scene: your child is reading a book, and they’ve been reading for a few months now. Suddenly, you think, “What if I had taught them to read this other way? What if I had used this other philosophy from the beginning? What if my child were in school?” When the "what ifs" show up, they can trigger worry, envy, and despair – and they can show up everywhere – but that isn’t serving you or your children! So how can we keep these “what ifs” from derailing our homeschools? Today I want to address some of the big ones that tend to pop up in our lives. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join Julie on Instagram: @juliebravewriter Read Brave Writer’s “One Thing Principle” Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Barbara Oakley, Ph.D., educator, writer, engineer, and perhaps most importantly, a female Indiana Jones! Barbara’s work focuses on the complex relationships between neuroscience and social behavior, and we think that any Brave Writer fan is also going to be a fan of Barbara’s newest book – Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying; A Guide for Kids and Teens – which teaches kids and teens simple tricks for learning difficult subjects, even if they don’t feel like they’re “good students.” You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying; A Guide for Kids and Teens by Alistair McConville, Barbara Oakley, and Terrence Sejnowski Watch: “Learning how to learn | Barbara Oakley | TEDxOaklandUniversity” Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Join the Homeschool Alliance: bravewriter.com/homeschool-alliance
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Do you ever feel stressed out talking about home education philosophies? When Unschooling, Classical Education, or Charlotte-Mason come up, do you ever feel like you’re going to have to defend yourself? Have you ever felt this way in an academic homeschooling community? It’s weird, isn’t it? In this episode, Julie discusses the importance of safe communities, the dangers of ideological purity, the red flags she saw around Unschooling, and three principles for a healthy education. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Before getting into the topic of this episode – the top 10 things to have done by the end of highschool – we want to make something clear: you can’t teach your children everything by the time they’re 18. As a matter of fact, your education wasn’t finished when you turned 18, either! It’s okay to save or discover some things in adulthood. And truly, life would be so much less satisfying if learning and growth just stopped when we turned 18. Homeschooling is, as Charlotte Mason says, providing a feast of ideas and giving your children the opportunity to sample many things, while developing confidence in their own self-educating powers. That said, there are still some things that all parents probably want to equip their children with before the end of high school – and today we’re going to talk about them! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
A disclaimer for this episode: we are not trained experts and our specialty is not special needs, so anything we share today is based on our own efforts to do research and learn from other trained efforts. So nothing in this episode should be considered clinical diagnosis or expert referral – this is all parent-to-parent sharing. And Julie’s children are all adults now, so the stories she has to share come from the perspective of someone who has already made it to the other side and can see how it all worked out. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Partnership Writing Bundle Learn from Rita Cevasco: rootedinlanguage.com If you have a child on the spectrum, check out surfershealing.org Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Are you a happy family… or are you not? Today, we hope to solve that dilemma! There’s a temptation to only consider the family identity when we think about our families, and that can be a wonderful identity to share! But a family is a collection of individuals and we can’t forget that. The friction of human beings living in a family space together is always going to feel a little bit like controlled chaos – and it’s totally okay if that’s the way that it is! However, making space for everyone in your family to have some of your focused attention and some alone time or downtime is the challenge, particularly for big families. So how can we leverage the unique benefits of homeschooling to do that – and what should we avoid? You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Pick up your copy of Family Math
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
We often see families join Brave Writer or The Homeschool Alliance who get excited about this style of living, but then we struggle to find other like-minded individuals out there in the world. Even in the homeschooling community, there can be a big disconnect between your theory of education and a friend’s. This may be someone you like personally, but they have a different vision of homeschool and it causes a little bit of conflict. There are a few types of friends that you’ll want to cultivate in your homeschooling life, and today we want to share principles and stories that will help you do that. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Join The Homeschool Alliance Join the Brave Writer Lifestyle Facebook Group Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Need support in sustaining your homeschool commitment? We invite you to read Julie’s three-part A Gracious Space series. You can find print copies on Amazon or digital copies in the Brave Writer store
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today we want to talk about the roles in our families – and the incredible power of choice. We delve into the labels and roles we use to characterize our kids, how those may limit our children, and how to let young people explore who they want to be through choice. Homeschooling is an empowering choice, and we can leverage that power to provide the best learning environment for our kids! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Connect with Julie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliebravewriter/?hl=en ( @JulieBraveWriter) Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Julie spends a lot of time looking at the homeschooling zeitgeist, and she notices a common theme coming up every so often: the search for the one thing that’s going to magically create a flawless homeschool. But really we shouldn’t be aiming for perfection – we should be aiming for progress! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
In the last episode, Julie started breaking down some research on brain-based learning, or the science behind what it looks like to be a good learner. Today, we’re going to dig into the rest of that research so that we have a holistic understanding of how our children learn! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Funderstanding.com
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
When Julie started learning about home education, she read a lot of work by home educators. Of course this makes sense because she wanted to understand the philosophy behind home education. However, learning the philosophy didn’t teach her to understand how learning functions inside a person’s brain. So much of educational training is focused on organizational skills, but it’s also important to understand what’s happening inside our children's’ noggins! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Funderstanding.com
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Julie coined the term Party School when she was developing her own homeschool experience. Today, we’re going to look at the properties of Party School and how you can turn it into a practice that brings a little enchantment to your homeschool. With these tips and some imagination, you can transform the study of any subject into something more engaging and fun! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Read: “The Ultimate Collection of Party School Book Club Ideas”
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
As we get older, we go through many different stages of our lives, and it can be challenging to discuss the topic of “Awesome Adulthood” because of this fact. Not everybody feels like they’re in a position to add anything to their lives, let alone an awesome new passion, hobby, or career choice. If you have children under the age of five years old, for example, your primary job to to take care of them and your enriching self-education is going to be look like becoming skilled at parenting. Our hope is that, when you’re in that early stage of parenthood, you will give yourself permission to become effective, understand what you’re doing, and care about that child. It’s a huge responsibility that you have, and they’ll be around for at least 18 years! But as kids start getting to school age, your primary self-educating focus will shift to becoming a career home educator. And like the many career educators in public and private schools, home education is indeed a career – but unlike other career educators, home educators don’t necessarily get any breaks from their students. Without any breaks, the burnout is very real. Too many of us get depressed, feel inadequate, blame ourselves, or isolate ourselves. The joy can dissipate, and the more you devote to the home education task, the worst it gets; “You start to feel like your whole life is consumed with an unattainable task.” Because not only is the act of teaching exhausting, not only do you not get a break, but your identity is directly tied to how your children perform. And unfortunately, when you feel depressed or discouraged or joyless, your kids see that too, and they will reflect it back to you like a mirror. The Remedy is Awesome Adulthood “If you’ve made your well-being dependent on how somebody else is doing, you are no longer the master of your own soul, of your own wellbeing; you have taken this personhood that is yours and relocated it, in your children.” What’s the remedy? Staying connected to the you that was you before the “you” became a “We,” whether that’s through marriage, children, or both. This doesn’t mean you have to find a new career or a time-consuming hobby – you just need to try retaining that piece of you and allow it to express itself. Does the word “awesome” in adulting scare you? Don’t worry, that’s really not the important part! It’s just alliterative! Maybe you think of it as being a Happy Adult, or a Fulfilled Adult, or a Meaningful Adult – but you do deserve some time for yourself. You deserve a prep period, a summer vacation, or a sabbatical… but, unfortunately, that’s not an option. But as a home educator, there’s something you CAN do that other educators can’t: mini vacations! You can’t necessarily take an extravagant trip for yourself when you have children living at home, but you can still do something for yourself! Here are a couple things to think about… If a subject area in school piques your interest, but your kids lose interest, keep going! “Home education is a re-education for mothers.”
Every day, build in time for choices that make you happy. Even if it’s just for a moment, do something that reminds you that you have choices, value, and wants. The more that you allow yourself to desire, and be okay with that, the more your children have permission to do the same. It’s hard to teach someone to follow their passion if you don’t have experience cultivating your own.
Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!)
You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
As home educators, what does it mean to have a satisfying adult life? How can we nourish and enrich our lives when we are so depleted from giving away so much to our kids? What happens if we spend so much of our time preparing our children that we end up watching our own lives go by? Today we’re going to address these questions, and many more, with a conversation about Awesome Adulting. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
In 1989, homeschool curriculum programs were few and far between; parents had to assemble products piecemeal, and this problem was far worse overseas. However, Sarita Holzmann decided to help by creating book lists for parents living abroad and then shipping those books to them, all before Amazon and the modern Internet. Fast-forward to present day: Sarita is the co-founder of successful homeschool curriculum brands https://www.sonlight.com/ (Sonlight) and Bookshark. The book selections are superb, and we especially enjoy the global focus. In this episode, Sarita shares how books help expand a child’s perspective of the world and how she chooses the 300+ books she reviews each year. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Check out Sarita’s Curricula at Sonlight or Bookshark Download Sarita’s FREE, No-Stress Guide to Teaching Language Arts with Purpose: https://www.sonlight.com/language-arts-blueprint.html Learn How Literature-Rich Homeschooling Awakens Your Child's Natural Passion for Learning: https://www.sonlight.com/home2lit Read: "How Reading Fiction Helps Kids Develop Empathy" Read: "Help Children Succeed in Their Careers by Using a Global Focus"
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
When Julie started homeschooling, all of the curricula she saw focused on what tasks the kids should do – there was nothing explaining to parents what it actually looks like to facilitate that process. In other words, most writing programs and teaching methodologies said what to do, but not how to do it. So when Julie started Brave Writer, her goal was to help parents and children become partners in writing and learning because she saw that as the key element of a successful home education. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons A Gracious Space: Fall Edition | Spring Edition | Winter Edition
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
What’s the difference between Brave Writer and some of the other writing programs available online? Julie originally saw the writing process as a relationship between trusted allies; the child and the parent. You don’t grow a writer simply by focusing on the skill and act of writing – you also have to establish bonds of affection and joy around language. And it’s so easy and natural to find that joy through Poetry Tea Time (so easy, in fact, that we call it the gateway drug to Brave Writer)! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Download the free Poetry Teatime Quick Start Guide Get your own Poetry Teatime Companion Read-Aloud Poems for Young People: Readings from the World's Best Loved Verses by Glorya Hale Poems to Learn by Heart by Caroline Kennedy
Americans' Favorite Poems: The Favorite Poem Project Anthology
Otherwise: New & Selected Poems by Jane Kenyon You Read to Me, I'll Read to You by John Ciardi Love That Dog by Sharon Creech Poemcrazy by Susan Wooldridge
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Anne Guarnera has always been passionate about learning, languages in particular. Anne shares her passion for language learning with her husband, Daniel, and they are now introducing that love of language to their two young sons – and the rest of the homeschooling community through Language Learning at Home. In this episode, Anne shares how cultural learning can be integrated into any homeschool curriculum, even if you don’t speak a second language yourself. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Access Anne’s Learning Language Resource Library: languagelearningathome.com/access-resource-library Connect with Anne: Website | Facebook | Twitter “Why I Want My Children to Learn Foreign Languages” “When Your Child is Resisting Learning a Foreign Language” “How to Do Foreign Language Read-Alouds (Even When You Don’t Speak Another Language)”
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today I want to talk about hominess in homeschool, and how you can you help your kids stay on task, while still experience the peace and comfort that home provides all of us. At Brave Writer, we steadfastly resist images of yellow #2 pencils, school buses, and apples because we are not bringing school into our families. We want to reinforce the properties of home, as opposed to reinforcing the qualities of a faux school. Home is about relaxing; letting go of obligation and pressure. It’s the place you get to show up as yourself – and when we mix in the properties of school, we’re actually violating that sense of hominess. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Dachelle McVey owns and operates Hide the Chocolate, a blog about homeschooling adventures, parenting, and – occasionally – hiding the chocolate! She currently homeschools her daughters, ages 10 and 12, and homeschooled her son, who is in his first year of college. We talk about the value of collaborative learning, how you can bring both local and online communities into your homeschool, and bringing your children on literary adventures. You can read full show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Want more adventure in your homeschool? Save 25% on a book club with the code “BRAVEWRITER” at www.hidethechocolate.com/book-club-landing-page Connect with Dachelle: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Today we’re going to look at the habit of perfectionism. We all know, deep down, that we have to let go of this compulsion to do things right on the first try, if we want to get better at living a satisfying life. So if we all know that, why do so many of us have this bad habit? To figure that out, we’re going to explore the different dynamics of perfectionism, look at the topic through a new lens, and come up with some more tools for letting go of the things that just don’t work for us. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Julie has written a lot on the natural stages of growth for young writers, which help parents place their children and figure reasonable expectations. Today we’re looking at the natural stages of development for home school instructors. If you are a home educating parent, this is made for you – and if you are married to someone who is not a home educating parent, this may serve as a helpful guide for them. Even if your spouse is not on the exact same journey, it is valuable for them to understand the unique journey you’re undertaking. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
Charnaie Gordon is a computer programmer by day, blogger and influencer by night, and a wife and mother of two 24/7. She is also a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, podcast junkie, and diversity and inclusion expert. In Charnaie’s blog, http://hereweeread.com/ (Here Wee Read), she expresses her creativity and passion for reading, diverse literature, and literacy. More than anything else, Charnaie cares about connecting people with great books that they love because she believes – and we at Brave Writer agree – that books are an absolute necessity. You can download show notes for the podcast here: blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: Check out this brand new, free product designed to kickstart your writing program this school year: 7-Day Writing Blitz (and tag your creative young writers using #BWBlitz on Twitter & Instagram!) You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Check out http://hereweeread.com/ (HereWeeRead.com) Connect with Charnaie: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison Grandad Mandela by Ambassador Zindzi Mandela (Author), Zazi and Ziwelene Mandela (Author), Sean Qualls (Illustrator)
-- Brave Writer is produced by Podcast Masters
To be a home educator is to value learning – if you are part of the Brave Writer community, it is because you value learning. Although your children may not be able to articulate it, they know that your home is about learning, and that that is important to their parents. It is this gift that creates the platform for all else that you do. Truly, if you approach your homeschool from a space of valuing education, as opposed to a fear of public schools, your children have already earned a sacred space in their hearts for learning. Just by living and breathing the value of education around your children, you are already ahead of the game. With that in mind, this episode contains 61 things that Julie did in her homeschool – and that she is proud of! You can download show notes for the podcast here: blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Julie homeschooled five children, and today each of them is grown and thriving, in very different environments. We know that homeschooling parents often have some anxiety around the aspirations for perfection that are so prevalent in home school education – but we don’t have to be perfect! In this episode, we want to dispel some of that anxiety by sharing 55 thing that Julie did NOT do in her homeschool, but at some point thought she should do (or did do, and at some point thought she shouldn’t do) You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Today Julie is talking about one of her favorite topics in the world: morning routines! She discusses how you can approach structuring your mornings, five things you can do before noon, and the educational philosophy behind what we’re trying to achieve with our morning routines. This is NOT a list of things you need to do every morning if you want to have a good day of homeschooling – it is an exploration of how morning routines really helped our home school, and how they may be used to help you too. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Making Connections: Teaching and the Human Brain by Geoffrey Caine
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
We know the early years are crucial when it comes to a child’s development – but do you know, specifically, how it affects the brain? For example, in the first year of life, more than one million new neural connections are formed every second. Adversity impairs these new connections, and the greater the adversity a child faces, the greater the odds of a delay in their cognitive, language, or emotional development. Today we’re going to learn more about the developing brain so that we, as parents and home educators, can incorporate brain-based practices into our family’s lives. Our guest for this episode is Joshua MacNeill, Director of Lakeside’s NeuroLogic Initiative and an expert in trauma-informed education. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Learn more at lakesidelink.com/training/neurologic 101 Brain Breaks & Educational Activities by Joshua MacNeill
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Season three of the Brave Writer podcast has been all about Brave Shifts; how to make the necessary shifts so you can have the homeschool you long to have. The shifts that Julie has made, and the growth she has experienced in her life, has been guided and shaped by one individual more than any other: her Mom, Karen O’Connor! Karen has always been a role model for how to grow, adapt, change, and become the best version of yourself no matter what life throws at you – and today we want to share that with you! Karen is the author of over 80 books, which have sold hundreds of thousands of copies. Although she was a teacher as a young adult, she has bore witness to the power of home education. She currently teaches three writing classes for Brave Writer, inspiring children to find their writing voices. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Learn more about Karen at www.karenoconnor.com Writing With Power by Peter Elbow
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Joules Evans is a mother of three, writer, cancer activist, fierce cheerleader of her friends in all of their creative endeavors, a girl with a severe case of wanderlust, YouTube vlogger, and on a mission to leave a beauty mark that she was there. Nine years ago, Joules received a breast cancer diagnosis – and, today, she celebrates every single day, even the day she heard the scary C word. She shares her journey, writing her memoir, and what she’s doing now to support others. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Shaken Not Stirred... A Chemo Cocktail: A comedy about my tragedy Read Joules’ blog: JoulesEvans.com Connect with Joules: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Read A Gracious Space: Winter on Kindle or Paperback
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Terry Heick is the Founder and Director of TeachThought, one of the world’s leading progressive learning brands, and their philosophy of education pairs beautifully with the Brave Writer lifestyle. In this episode, we discuss the education trends in our digital world and how we can best apply those insights to the home environment. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Learn more at https://www.teachthought.com/ (TeachThought.com) Listen: The TeachThought Podcast Connect: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Susanne Barrett is a beloved teacher, staff writer, and friend who has been with Brave Writer since the very beginning, when our classes were taught via prehistoric Yahoo Groups! She is currently in her 21st – and final – year of homeschooling, and she joins us on the show to share the lessons she’s learned along the way. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Connect with Susanne at susannebarrett.com
Stephanie Elms is Brave Writer’s fabulous Homeschool Alliance coach, and we hired her to help all of you homeschool with peace and progress. She is a passionate and experienced home educator who encourages parents to trust themselves, trust their kids, and trust the process. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Join The Homeschool Alliance: coachjuliebogart.com Follow Kyle’s photography: khelms.smugmug.com Read Stephanie’s blog: throwingmarshmallows.com
Millie Florence is an enthusiastic homeschooler and a published author – and she’s only 13-years-old! Her debut novel, Honey Butter, was published in August 2017, and she’s currently working on two more books: a collection of poems and a fantasy novel. She shares how NaNoWriMo changed her life, and offers her own tips for young writers. We are hosting a Brave Writer classroom for all of the young people who want to write as part of NaNoWriMo, and you can sign up your kids for FREE! Visit the https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/ (Young Writers Program) and sign up for an account. You will be prompted to join a classroom by entering a code. Our classroom code is: CKXQFLWR Our classroom name is NaNoWriMo for Brave Writers!
You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Learn more at MillieFlorence.com Read Honey Butter TeenAuthorsJournal.com
Today’s guests have experienced one of life’s most harrowing events: losing a child. Brian and Tywana Smith are fellow homeschoolers and, more importantly, dear friends of Julie’s. They came on the show to share their story and offer support in the hopes of encouraging others who live, as Tywana describes, with “one foot in the spiritual world with Shayna and one foot in the physical world.” You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Read Brian’s Blog: Beautiful Light Find support: Helping Parents Heal Learn more about Treasured Locks
Rita Cevasco is a speech language pathologist, mother of three incredible children, the author of Trees in a Forest, and the Founder of Rooted in Language, a private speech and therapy practice that she conducts with her daughter. Julie and Rita share many of the same ideals, and their families have been on a Homeschooling journey together since Brave Writer was in its infancy. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Learn more at RootedInLanguage.com Connect with Rita: Facebook | Instagram Listen to our last conversation with Rita Listen to us talk to Rita about the role of the brain in writing: http://blog.bravewriter.com/2012/09/05/08-conversation-with-rita-cevasco/ Trees in a Forest by Rita Cevasco
Ashley White enjoyed her career as a first grade teacher, but when her children were born, her entire world changed—including her perspective on public education. With the full support of her husband Jeremy, Ashley decided to focus her attention on homeschooling. The White family has since put a twist on traditional homeschooling by embarking on what they call Roadschooling. It’s just like it sounds—they hop in their minivan and take their education on the road, visiting the places that intrigue them and incorporating enchanted education along the way. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Read Ashley’s blog: Mommy’s Little Learners Follow Mommy’s Little Learners on Facebook
Christy Thomas is the definition of an Awesome Adult! Her husband Adam is on active duty and they have moved eight times in 13 years on the whim of the Navy. Christy balances the unpredictability by homeschooling their three kids, and she fuels her Awesome Adult life by running, drawing, knitting, reading, and blogging. Self-care isn’t just a luxury for Christy – it’s a priority. In this episode, Christy shares her tips for developing an Awesome Adult mindset and integrating these pockets of happy into your busy life. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Read Christy’s blog: JoyBroughtMe.com Connect with Play4Life Moms: Play4LifeMoms.com | Facebook | Instagram
Kim and Gabrielle Linnell are an amazing mother-daughter duo we invited on the show to share how Brave Writer — and homeschooling in general — has shaped their understanding of education. Gabrielle is 25 and was homeschooled for about nine years, also spending time in private and public schools. She currently works at Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., as the digital projects associate, where she gets to work on awesome digital initiatives relating to Shakespeare and his world. Gabrielle’s mom, Kim, has taught English as a second language for more than 20 years to international students in schools and universities, both in America and abroad… but she describes the 10 years she homeschooled her four daughters as the high water mark of her career. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Read some of Gabrielle’s writing at GabrielleLinnell.com Sign up for Gabrielle’s TinyLetter about the ways maps change our minds: tinyletter.com/gclinnell Follow Kim’s writing at ESLOnlineMagazine.com
We were first introduced to Christina Celebi in the height of live streaming broadcasts like Periscope, and we were immediately attracted to her contagious passion and sparkle. We sat down to talk with her because her family have made a brave decision: they have taken their homeschool on the road abroad! Christina immediately fell in love with the freedom that homeschooling created for her family. That independence, mixed with her and her husband’s wanderlust, took root and blossomed into what she calls “World Schooling.” Christina shares how World Schooling changes her homeschooling experience, how she travels on a budget, and how you can start World Schooling if you’ve never travelled before. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Read Christina’s blog post: “World Schooling on a Budget”
Dotty Christensen is a one of Julie’s long-time friends, mentors, and partners in shared homeschooling. They sit down to discuss how families can create a warm, rich environment in their homeschool life, and why parents shouldn’t be afraid that homeschooling is a dead end – it can even be the catalyst for something exciting and new in your adult life! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Susan Wise Bauer is best known for writing her homeschooling classic, The Well-Trained Mind, and she is a trusted authority in the homeschooling community. Her new book, Rethinking School: How to Take Charge of Your Child's Education, will be available later this year. Susan also has a uniquely comprehensive understanding of the history of the home education movement because she’s been a student, a teacher, and a homeschool business owner. We are starting this series about Brave Shifts with Susan because we want to learn, from her unique perspective, how the culture of homeschooling and education can shift to become even more powerful and effective in families around the world. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Pre-order Rethinking School: How to Take Charge of Your Child's Education by Susan Wise Bauer Learn more about Susan: SusanWiseBauer.com | Twitter | Facebook
Today’s guest, Mason Lawler, is 14-years-old and recently self-published his first book, How the Chameleon Got Its Colors. 2016 was a rough year – Mason went through surgeries and long recoveries – so his mother focused on a big project that would lead to a satisfying outcome. They decided to write a book. We discuss... self-teaching the self-publishing process commissioning illustrations and why there is a grain of truth behind all good fiction.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
How The Chameleon Got Its Colors by M. G. Lawler: Amazon | Barnes & Noble The Writer’s Jungle home-study course
We’ve reached the finale of this Brave Writer Lifestyle Series. The past interviews have shared literally decades of homeschool experience, including all of the challenges, discoveries, family relationships, and friendships that have resulted from this Brave Writer lifestyle of love and learning. (Don’t worry! We’ll be back with a new episode next week!) We’re going to wrap up the series with the wisdom and wit of the wonderful friend, author and homeschooling pro Melissa Wiley. Melissa is mom to “a small army of children” and she has been writing children’s books since 1995, including her Brave Writer featured book The Prairie Thief (affiliate link). In 2005, Melissa started her blog Here in the Bonny Glen to document her family adventures – it’s my favorite homeschooling blog and it’s hilarious, so make sure you head over there and read it. Melissa will also be teaching two Brave Writer classes in the Spring! One class is about comic strips and the other is titled “Penning the Past.” Melissa was drawn to many of the great ideas in Unschooling, Charlotte-Mason and the classical method – but she didn’t like how strict the teaching methodologies were. She found that her family was constantly learning in different ways. Shifting between more and less structure was working, though. The tide would come in and the tide would go out, but they were learning at every level. She observed her home education style and coined the term http://melissawiley.com/tidal-homeschooling/ (Tidal Homeschooling). It’s not a method, it’s a description. High Tide – The family charters the ship and maps out the journey. The parents are the captain and the children are the crew. They’re open to side trips and adventure, but the captain is in charge and there’s a planned course of action. Low Tide – The family is at the beach. The children are all wandering along the shore, exploring their own interests. Although the children are all doing their own thing, the parents are still involved and can act as a facilitator.
Everyone is present at every stage of the journey, but their roles may change along the way. One of the benefits of looking at home education through the lens of Tidal Homeschooling is recognizing that we go through these seasonal changes. Tying ourselves to only one point of view about learning sometimes limits our creativity and causes us to miss a natural ebb and flow in how learning gets expressed by our children. When I talk about the Enchanted Education I talk about surprise, mystery, risk and adventure. It can be an adventure to go solo, but it can also be an adventure to participate in a well-prepared lesson or plan. It’s a beautiful metaphor that expresses how the seasonal shift can make us feel and why we should move with the flow of things rather than fighting it. Melissa’s oldest child is in college right now, and overall she feels that Tidal Homeschooling was an effective primary education. During her first year, Melissa’s daughter realized, laughing through tears, that she didn’t have a bad teacher until she was 18. She said she could have used more practice doing timed tests. While many of her peers relayed a high school experience full of pressure and AP classes, Melissa’s daughter loved her high school years.
Melissa’s husband, Scott Peterson, is a comic book author. Her kids grew up on comics and comics played a role in their home education. The images support the text and the text supports the images, and so kids have multiple shots at decoding comics. They can actually invite children into decoding risks and provide them with the courage to read. Melissa’s 3rd daughter learned to read using The Adventures of Tintin. Her youngest child did the same thing with Calvin & Hobbes. The vocabulary is often more advanced than what you might find in an early reader’s book, too. “She had so much motivation to decode those words in the bubbles, in the balloons,...
Angela Awald wears a lot of hats. She is a mother of six kids, a certified teacher, a writer, and a doula. She also runs the blog NurturedRoots.net. “I came across the Brave Writer lifestyle and it clicked. Everything that I had read and felt in my heart just clicked when I read about it.” Angela is a classroom teacher turned homeschooler, and transitioning to homeschooling was more difficult than she expected. She spent a long time trying to force school at home. Moving away from school at home took a lot of trial and error. Instead of looking at a list of what they need to cover, she learned to look at what was best for her children. When she stopped trying to meet other people’s standards, the home education process started coming together. In 2014, she came across the Brave Writer lifestyle and it clicked. The days started to flow more smoothly because everyone was more engaged and connected. “That’s what I love about the Brave Writer lifestyle … I think of it as a framework that allows a lot of grace and flexibility.” Angela created a delightful twist on Poetry Teatime – Poetry & Pajamas day! Every Thursday, the family comes to the table for breakfast treats, poetry and a project relating to the theme of the day. The treats bring everyone to the table and the flexibility of the activity allows everyone to participate when they want to. By being flexible, she doesn’t pressure anyone to engage more than they want to while leaving an open opportunity for them to participate when they feel inspired. Angela lives an inspired homeschooling lifestyle, meaning she develops an education guide that allows for inspiration. Angela steers clear of the word “plan” and, instead, focuses on intention. Based on the Brave Writer lifestyle, she created a visual planning guide that covers everything she intends to get to in the next month. At the beginning of the month, she assesses what requires more focus so that she can better respond to the needs of her family. “I try to think of it as intentions. As soon as I say the word “plan,” I automatically become rigid in my own thinking.” Angela’s experience with homeschooling six children has taught her a lot. She says the keys to homeschooling are an open mind, a spirit of adventure, flexibility and love. “An open mind is just being open to the other ideas that might pop up. The input of our children. Some of the best learning that has happened in our home was not my idea. It was the idea of a child.” “A spirit of adventure means just being willing to step outside of our own comfort zone … being open to the things our kids can teach us, the the things the world has to offer, and not being afraid to go out there and experience them.” “Before we had children, I was a very by the book. You start at point A and you go to point B. There’s no detour. Well, I have learned that that just doesn’t work anymore so flexibility is the name of the game around here.” “If all else fails, or even if it’s all going well, just love ‘em … If we just keep focusing on the love we have for the child who’s right in front of us, it puts everything in perspective.”
At NurturedRoots.net and on her Pinterest page, Angela offers a lot of awesome resources for homeschoolers, parents and doula care. You’ll find... A Brave Writer-inspired planning guide, which is like a one-page menu listing all of the elements of Brave Writer. If you are running out of reading material, the Big Book Pile-Up has 30 days of reading ideas for your family. The 20 literary devices that she wants her kids to know before they leave the house, tips for using board games for education and other fun things you can tailor to your own home education experience.
“If we nurture ourselves and our families, those are our roots, and that’s what’s going to change the world.” You can download show notes for the podcast here:...
Chantelle Grubbs, her husband Tony and her five beautiful kids have been using the Brave Writer lifestyle since 2014. In Spring 2016, Chantelle and her friend Christy Thomas launched a venture they call Play 4 Life Moms based on their experiences with the Brave Writer lifestyle. Chantelle fell into homeschooling because she didn’t think public schools were offering enough to her first two boys. She felt the school expected every child to perform and act the same way, and that’s just not the case. Chantelle was first introduced to the Charlotte Mason method of homeschooling, but she had difficulty implementing it. When she started, she didn’t know how to translate the ideas into actual lesson plans. It ended up looking a lot like school at home, and that didn’t work. “It took a lot of tears and trying over and over again to come to a place where we were enjoying ourselves and also learning at the same time.” Chantelle noticed that her kids were more engaged with learning when they were having fun with activities. This is because, when children are problem solving and using their bodies, they’re imprinting the lesson in a different way than just reading about it. When Chantelle started a weekly Poetry Tea Time in her household, her two oldest children were reluctant to enjoy poetry. Of course, they still came for the snacks. Over time, they came to enjoy the poetry too. Now everyone in the Grubbs household is excited for Poetry Tea Time, although not everyone likes tea and some of the older children aren’t able to be there for a whole hour – but that’s fine! Lemonade, snacks and poetry for 10 minutes is still a great family learning experience. Chantelle’s biggest challenge has been figuring out what is best for each child, and accepting that they all need something different. No two people learn in exactly the way. One of her children is actually finding the support and education she needs in a public school environment, and Chantelle couldn’t be happier. “I think you have to do what’s best for each child. That’s the biggest obstacle. It’s not always the easiest thing – the easiest thing is to pick one thing and have everyone do it – but that doesn’t make it the best thing for each child.” Play 4 Life Moms allows you to sign up for encouraging texts or emails that inspire you to build connections in your home through play. The service started after Chantelle and Christy interacted during one of my Facebook Live videos. They both wanted a solution to remind themselves, as homeschooling mothers, to slow down and embrace play. The text messages range from challenges to positive comments to inspiring quotes that help homeschooling parents live up to their best intentions. “Those little reminders help bring you back to where you want to be. That’s what we’re trying to achieve for other moms.” Some example texts: Drink a warm cup of tea today and savor the warm decorations in your house. “Play builds the kind of free-and-easy, try-it-out, do-it-yourself character that our future needs.” –James Hines, Jr. Try to sit down to eat during lunch this week. Enjoy your food. You’re important
Having these quotes and reminders on a daily basis help create a sustained imagination and allow mothers to tap into their own experiences and best intentions. http://play4lifemoms.com/ (You can sign up for Play 4 Life Moms text messages here). Having your own story is what counts – not being somebody’s poster child for their story. Every home education experience is different. Chantelle’s incredible story and willingness to adapt will be an inspiration for any #BraveSchooler. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Sign up for Play 4 Life Moms messages & join the private community ($5/month) Follow...
Amy Milcic is a former mental health therapist and a homeschooling parent of five active, busy boys. She has a great blog, Rock Your Homeschool, that will add sparkle to your family’s learning fun. I first ran into Amy on Periscope, where she starts her day by pumping up other homeschool moms (I think coffee is one of her secrets!). Today, she is going to help pump you up in your homeschool efforts, too. Amy’s kids are drawn to the freedom of the Brave Writer lifestyle. It allows them to embrace who they are as an individual and keep out of any cookie cutters. “The Friday Freewrites have been… oh my goodness! I could cry when I think about the effect it has had on our family.” Friday Freewrites have been hugely beneficial for Amy’s family. They have helped her kids be comfortable in who they are, their thought processes and how they can express their thoughts on paper. One of her children even said, “Mom, I never knew writing could feel this good.” Before Friday Freewriting, it was a struggle. The same child would crumple into a fetal position at the first mention of writing. Poetry Teatime has also been very meaningful for Amy’s family. It’s so popular that they want to do it more than once a week! “As a mental health therapist, I feel that self-expression is so important and poetry is just a beautiful way of carefully selecting words to express your thoughts and feelings.” Poetry has helped Amy’s boys realize that there are different writing formats and different ways to express yourself. Poetry Teatime opens up a world of new conversation and discussion that, otherwise, they never would have had. For the athletes in Amy’s family, poetry also helps them find a part of themselves that they never knew existed. If you want to see some wonderful examples of Poetry Teatime with five boys, check out Amy on Instagram @rockyourhomeschool. As a former mental health professional, Amy is acutely aware of the importance of self-care in homeschooling. As parents, we want to give everything to our children – yet, we need that time to reconnect with ourselves. “Self-care as to be a priority. Otherwise, if my cup is empty, I can not be there for my family. I feel that is a vital part of a homeschooler’s life.“ Whether it’s self-care or lesson plans, there is no one way to do it. Many homeschooling parents and children feel boxed in, feel overwhelmed or feel like they should do something differently. That is simply not true. One of the wonderful things about the Brave Writer lifestyle is that there are so many different ways to do any one thing, and we can focus on using our own individual gifts to help our children. There’s many different ways to teach any one thing. We all can use our own individual gifts to help our children with that “and, in the process, learn more about our children and help them discover their unique potential.” You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Amy Milcic: Rock Your Homeschool | Instagram | Periscope | Facebook | Google+ | Pinterest | Twitter Poetry Teatime Companion
Mary Wilson is a popular Brave Writer blogger and the only person I know who may love tea more than I do. In her blog, Not Before 7, she writes about homeschooling, parenting and adventure. In 2016, I put out a challenge for parents to show how they are leading an Enchanted Education lifestyle via Periscope. Mary used the hashtag #EnchantedEducation and walked us through her amazing child-friendly home to showcase the power of an Enchanted lifestyle. For Mary, there’s a Brave Writer lifestyle and then there’s a Brave Writer philosophy, which helps guide all of the other choices we are making. Mary first incorporated elements of the Brave Writer lifestyle into her home, and the philosophy naturally followed. She started by implementing pieces of the Brave Writer lifestyle that connected right away, like Poetry Tea Time, The Arrow and free writing. Mary was drawn to resources that allowed her to teach all four of her children together and effectively. “It was so great to move to this place where I could teach all my children together and accomplish so much.” Mary also started hosting book club meetings for her family and other families, but she takes the meetings to another level. She brings in appropriately-themed activities, puzzles, experiments, foods and even invitations to turn book clubs into an adventure. For “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart, Mary sent out invitations that looked like a newspaper ad, set out a series of clues, used a red bucket to collect items and communicated using morse code using flashlights in the dark. For “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding, Mary turned her home into a jungle, procured a conch shell, started a fire and made food in the shape of pigs.
Children aren’t just learning at these parties – they’re also excited to keep coming back. Mary has seen kids start public high school and continue to remain in the homeschool book club because it’s such a highlight of their learning education and their social life. The Brave Writer philosophy has encouraged Mary to look at her relationship with the child first, to look at the total person in front of her. Adopting this philosophy helped her take a year to focus on improving one of her children’s mental health. The extra focus was extremely beneficial and it greatly improved academic progress for her whole family. “Now we’re making so much more progress academically because we’re not fighting against the way my child is programmed. Now we’re working with the way that she is programmed.” Embracing this philosophy has also helped Mary shift from a Teacher-Student role to a Partnership role. This shift helped her overcome the preconceived notion that the teacher’s goal is to, eventually, not be needed in the education process. Collaboration through partnership is not only a useful tool for the education – it’s also a critical skill in the workplace. The most effective employees, workers and entrepreneurs of the future are those who know how to collaborate on a peer-level with their fellow co-workers. The Brave Writer wants to free parents from any obligation they may feel to make their student self-directed in learning without any conversation, direction or lesson preparation. Freeing yourself will allow you to invest in your children’s education, as opposed to controlling it. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Mary Wilson: http://www.notbefore7.com (Not Before 7) | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube
Nadine Dyer and her two kids are living a big, juicy homeschool life above a rowan tree in Ontario, Canada. On her blog, Up Above the Rowan Tree, she talks all about her journey as a homeschooler, especially her experience using the Secular Charlotte Mason method. “There are moments of joy that definitely outweigh the difficulty, but I was completely unprepared for how hard it was. I don’t feel that enough people mention that part.” When Nadine first started homeschooling, she wishes she knew how difficult it would be – and how rewarding those hard days would be when her children overcome an obstacle. When we see our homeschooling communities on social media, we are often looking at the bright red berry moments in a dark winter. We sometimes forget that, behind those bright moments, there are days, weeks or even months of challenges. “One of the scariest things that I’ve done as a homeschooler is saying I need to back off. That didn’t feel intuitive to me. That didn’t feel natural to me. It made me feel like somehow I was neglectful if I didn’t just keep pushing and prodding.” We also forget that children can offer us a lot of insight into their experience, if we’re willing to act on what they say and not just talk them out of it. Nadine has tackled her biggest home education challenges by giving herself permission to slow down, offering her kids the control and trusting in that process. One of the things I love to advocate when we talk about the Brave Writer lifestyle is imagining what would nourish a sense of commitment to education. Is it freedom, is it one-on-one time, is it eye contact, is it a treat, is it feeling like this space is intended for a specific purpose? Too often we’re juggling 12 balls at once and we want our kids to exclude all the distractions or just get it done so we can move on with our day, and we don’t consider what it is that we’re asking them to do. We don’t set the context. To add context to a difficult subject, Nadine really embraced Teatime. It became something that she wasn’t forcing because there were no worksheets or quizzes. It was just sitting, enjoying, reading and talking together. It became such a positive connection for her kids that she started putting down tea and snacks right before their math lessons. “[Teatime] became this thing that they connected with calmness and safety and there was not a lot of pressure. Anytime I need them to do something difficult or challenging I make a pot of tea or a pot of hot chocolate and we will do whatever it is that’s hard, while we sip tea, because everything's better when you’re sipping on tea.” Nadine was first introduced to Charlotte Mason while reading The Writer’s Jungle. She saw pushback to the Charlotte Mason ideology, but those ideas were also what worked for her kids and brought peace to her home. It works for her family and, ultimately, the goal of homeschooling is for a tailor-made education directed by a real human being. Nadine has a wonderful blog and Instagram account. Follow her to learn more about how she is using the Charlotte Mason methodology to craft a unique homeschool experience for her family and how the Brave Writer lifestyle has helped her overcome family challenges. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Nadine Dyer: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube The Writer’s Jungle
http://www.aliciahutchinson.com (Alicia Hutchinson) is the founder of Learning Well and a homeschooling mother of four. The funny thing about Alicia is that she never really saw herself as a mom – much less a homeschooling mom. Now Alicia can’t imagine life without homeschool. Alicia begins every day with a morning meeting. It started as a time to sit down, talk about the day and, on Mondays, go over the coming week. The meeting has grown to incorporate more activities and a daily focus. “What I’m doing as the home educator is I’m teaching them to love to learn.” The Morning Meeting: Sit down with an assignment notebook to write down what each kid has to do for that day. Talk about what is happening later in the day. Each day has a daily focus: Nature Study, Math and Logic, Writing, History and Geography or Fine Arts. Alicia runs down a list of fun activities or discussions: daily idioms, current events, games, journaling and more.
“It’s really, really important for me to have a house where my kids can create and play and learn together.” What is Learning Well? Learning Well is the idea of not being so hung up on the logistics of everything and focusing more on our kids. What you do may look different than what the homeschooler next door does. Education works differently for everybody, but if you’re all learning together then you’re doing it right. Learning Well is a community of homeschoolers teaching each other – and having fun! “Learning Well is the idea of not being so hung up on the logistics of everything and focusing more on our kids. If you’re all learning together then you’re doing it right.” The Learning Well Community website is full of valuable lessons, planning tools, reviews of homeschooling products and a community of like-minded homeschoolers. Make sure you also follow the https://www.instagram.com/learningwell/ (@learningwell Instagram account). There’s so much value in seeing the life in action and her posts are fabulous. You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Alicia Hutchinson: Blog | Facebook | https://twitter.com/aliciahutch4104 (Twitter) | Instagram | Pinterest Learning Well Community: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest
Today we have a bonus treat for the Brave Writer community, especially those of you in the Boomerang Book Club. We are introducing you to Kwame Alexander. He is a poet, educator, New York Times Bestselling author, honorary Brave Writer, and recipient of both the 2015 Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award. We explore... self-publishing poetry as a form of form of activism and why Kwame blends poetry and sports.
You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Resources: You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Watch The Official Music Video for The Playbook (with music by Randy Preston) Pick up one of Kwame’s books:
The Playbook
The Crossover or any of his 20 other books!
-- Production & Development for The Brave Writer Podcast by Podcast Masters
Today two Julies sit down to discuss how the Brave Writer lifestyle draws on diverse experiences to provide excellent home education. Julie Kirkwood, our guest, is a mom to three kids who believes in the value of curiosity, exploration and a daily dose of nature in her homeschool world. She created the fantastic home education website Creekside Learning. Creekside Learning is a space to share STEM and Naturalist learning resources for adventurous kids, as well as inspiration for homeschooling parents. The focus on STEM developed because it was her kids’ biggest interest. Julie also shares a number of tools that she and her children develop, including Positive Thought Cards. They are positive affirmations for learning that can act as a reset button when you get to a point where learning stops. It’s a unique, effective tool – and it’s completely free! “The STEM stuff really grew out of my kids’ interests. It was not my big interest, but when I saw how interested they were and how excited they were when we would learn about science and technology, it just grew and grew.” A huge aspect of the Brave Writer lifestyle is that we are trying to give our children a rich landscape of experiences – it’s not just focusing on language arts properties. If we immerse them in experiences that call out access to language then we find ourselves more capable of writing and more able to draw on a richer and wider vocabulary. Julie’s family often experiences homeschooling outside of the home. The outings are intentional, but they have no agenda. It’s entirely child-led. She’s found that the learning then continues at home because her children see something and then they want to learn more about it. “The natural environment becomes important to them, and so it does come out in their writing, it comes out in what they talk about and it comes out in what they desire to do.” Like nature, a weekly Poetry Tea Time experience can be re-centering for the family. There is something about changing the routine, coming together and simply enjoying poetry (or the outdoors), as opposed to requiring learning to happen, that actually creates a safe space for learning to occur. “We’re in year seven right now and never, ever have my kids balked or fussed when I said it was time for Poetry Tea Time.” Julie’s children love to build, which led to a fascination with LEGO and, of course, Minecraft. Julie views Minecraft as a valuable learning tool. Her children think very analytically when they are building something and she’s noticed that they now look at the rest of the world in a more analytical way. Julie does have some anxiety about the frequency with which her children, and most children, are in front of screens. She talks to them about and encourages a balance between games, activity and nature. “It’s really interesting to see them face a new challenge with whatever video game they’re playing and figure stuff out, and I think there’s great value in that.” You can find all of Julie’s excellent resources at Creekside Learning for incorporating STEM, Naturalism and diversity into your home education. I know I’m going to print out a set of Positive Thought Cards for my family! You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ You can download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons Resources: Creekside Learning: Website | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Positive Thought Cards for Kids Barton System - A great tutoring system for individuals who struggle with spelling, reading and writing due to dyslexia or a learning disability.
Today we are talking about the Brave Writer lifestyle and how it shows up in homeschooling families all around the globe. Our guests and partners in crime, Kara Anderson and Caitlin Fitzpatrick, co-host the wonderful http://thehomeschoolsisters.com (The Homeschool Sisters) podcast. “I think Brave Writer brings joy because it gives the parent permission to let school be a lifestyle, and take the school away from the education.” –Caitlin Anderson Caitlin is a school psychologist, a mother of three and calls herself an “unexpected homeschooler.” Kara never imagined herself homeschooling either, when she was working at the newspaper. She brought her passion home with her and works part-time while learning with her two favorite people on the planet. “As a writer and somebody who love books, I want my kids to love it, but I know it’s not going to work if I try to force them to love it. Brave Writer has been a perfect solution to that, and the whole lifestyle has taken that worry and anxiety and turned it into joy.” –Kara Anderson So… what is an unexpected homeschooler? Caitlin works as a school psychologist and she is a product of public education. Her vision was that, when her kids were old enough to go to school, she would go back to work. Things don’t always go the way you envision. Caitlin and Kara both had to reassess what they knew about school and education when their kids experienced difficulties during the first few years of public education. The public classroom didn’t address their kids’ needs, so both of them decided to go on a new journey with their children. “It was a very unexpected, impulsive decision and one that I haven’t regretted for a second.” –Caitlin Fitzpatrick Support can be a vital part of homeschooling, for both the child and the parent. The Internet makes finding that support easier than it has ever been. Kara and Caitlin have never met, but they support each other through every step of the homeschooling process. You can connect with like-minded, brave individuals online – and it can be vital for your own well-being as a homeschooling parent. Online communication can bring you together from hundreds of miles away to help each other, at any time. Kara and Caitlin are a gentle, supportive and nourishing presence in the homeschooling world. If you haven’t already, head over to TheHomeschoolSisters.net and listen to the podcast. Resources: The Homeschool Sisters: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest Kara Anderson: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter Caitlin Fitzpatrick: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter “The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Poetry Tea Time” by Kara Anderson Simple Homeschool Voxer - Fast, Simple, Voice & Messaging App You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Welcome to the beginning of this Brave Writer Podcast series. Today we’re talking to Rebecca Spooner, a hip homeschooler and a shining example of the http://www.bravewriter.com (Brave Writer) Lifestyle. Rebecca writes about homeschooling on her blog Hip Homeschooling, and she helps others with planning their lives and launching their own blogs at RebeccaSpooner.com. Rebecca has five kids between the ages of three and nine, all of whom are homeschooled. It turns out, being homeschooled gave Rebecca unrealistic expectations for being a homeschool teacher. She came in with a plan and schedules, and then she had a massive wake-up call. Her five kids need five entirely different styles of teaching. “I had it all figured out, but it was just this massive wake-up call because all my kids have are different learning styles. Every one of them.” Rebecca’s first child is an auditory learner. She relates to that, so the teaching style is easier. Her second child is a kinesthetic learner, a more tactile learning style that involves learning by physically doing, which is almost the exact opposite. Rebecca had to learn and adapt to the differences, and becoming a Brave Writer helped her accomplish that goal. “All kids are going to learn better when it’s experiential and they can own the experience. It’s totally shaped the way that we do everything.” One of the key features of the Brave Writer Lifestyle and Enchanted Education is the family participation, and Rebecca is a champion of the lifestyle. By embracing the Brave Writer Lifestyle, Rebecca made homeschooling what she wanted it to be: an environment where her kids got to learn together, and where she got to learn because she was learning with them. “Brave Writer really did change the entire way that I approach homeschooling … it totally changed my perspective and it gave me permission to make homeschooling what I wanted it to be.” Rebecca’s main goal with her website is to show other moms real life and provide a sense of community, because she feels like everything we see out there makes us feel like a failure and makes us feel like we’re not doing enough. She shows her successes, but she also shows her failures. It’s an excellent resource for anyone interested in homeschooling or education, and she also hosts a podcast. I appreciate Rebecca taking time out of her busy day to join us today. She shows that a Brave Writer can nurture any learning style, and Hip Homeschooling provides a strong community and a great example for any current or potential homeschool teacher. Resources: Learn more about Rebecca: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter Hip Homeschooling Interested in starting a blog? Rebecca can http://rebeccaspooner.com/shop/ (help) Watch Julie talk about The Enchanted Education Are you a homeschooler parent? Check out The Writer’s Jungle You can download show notes for the podcast here: http://blog.bravewriter.com/category/podcasts/ Download Free Writing Lessons here: http://go.bravewriter.com/free-writing-lessons
Today we welcome one of the most prolific writers of children’s fantasy and poetry, Jane Yolen! [This post contains Amazon affiliate links. When you click on those links to make purchases, Brave Writer receives compensation at no extra cost to you. Thank you!] When I began my freelance writing career, I chose the picture book […]
Today we’d like to welcome two amazing women who are on the cutting edge of children’s poetry. Janet Wong is a prolific writer of poetry and short stories for young people. Her work has received wide recognition from shows like Oprah Winfrey to awards such as the Asian Pacific American Award for Literature. She is […]
I’m excited to introduce you to my good friend (and sorority sister, ha!) Leslie Gustafson! Leslie’s worked as a marriage and family therapist for over 25 years and is a homeschooling mother of a teenage son. She regularly appears on the Fox Morning show in Denver Colorado sharing relationship advice for couples. Because so many […]
by Nancy Graham, Brave Writer Minister of Magic Hi everybody! Our summer online writing classes are filling up but there are spots left in a choice few (classes start July 5th!)— Kidswrite Basic with Deb Bell, April Hensley, or Sarah Holden my summer movie club, Magnificent Horses, and the SAT/ACT Essay class led by longtime […]
Image of Amy Ludwig VanDerwater is by Melissa Deakin It was my delight and privilege to talk with Amy Ludwig VanDerwater. Her poetry is delicious—like a strawberry smoothie or a fresh mint lemonade. She brings vowels and consonants together in ways that leave the mouth happy and satisfied. Not only that, her family lives in […]
Welcome to our first Poetry Teatime Podcast! I was honored to interview Marilyn Singer, award-winning poet and author. Marilyn and I met for the interview long distance—she, in her home in Brooklyn, and me, Julie, in a library in Cincinnati. Unfortunately the library failed us, a bit. The Internet connection was variable throughout and you […]
Johannah (26) was in town, and Noah (28) was downtown. I brought them together in my backyard for a conversation in front of our Periscope audience. They share about their experiences growing up, what they are doing today, and answer questions from parents. I am hyper and too loud and talk too fast. I was […]
After a long, dark slumber, we return! In fact, we recorded this podcast a couple months after recording the previous, Englishes, but because of complications in life, it sat forgotten and ignored on the Internet. No links, no listeners, no happiness. No more! Please join us as we tackle a topic close to my heart, […]
Today’s podcast discusses the relationship between speech and writing. For those of you who are long-term Brave Writer fans, you’ll know that I refer to Dr. Peter Elbow as “my guru.” His vision for writing has long guided how I teach. When this new book Vernacular Eloquence hit the stores, it was thrilling to realize […]
I’ve written about the One Thing Principle many times on the blog. Today, though, I wanted to share with you in more detail about how to get that fantasy homeschool you imagine into the real world of your routine family practice. Noah shares about our family and what we did that he remembers and I […]
Finally!! We are at the end of our series “The Natural Stages of Growth in Writing.” This podcast features discussion about the high school writing life, on into college. Don’t miss it! It will help to shape your philosophy of writing, not just your program for writing. Enjoy! Julie
Today’s podcast (podcast player at the bottom of this entry) features children’s author and home educator, Melissa Wiley. Melissa and I met in 2005 online and instantly formed a wonderful connection around writing and homeschool. Her most recent children’s novel, The Prairie Thief, is the featured title for the October Arrow. You may purchase […]
This podcast discusses the role of the brain in writing as well as how to teach the mechanics in a way that actually leads to their incorporation in the original writing task. Be sure, too, to sign up for Rita’s Class: Foundations in Writing. It starts October 1 and always fills up so don’t miss […]
Hi everyone! This is our 7th podcast, 5th in the series related to the Natural Stages of Growth in writing. We started discussing the Transition to Ownership in podcast 06 and this is the second half of that conversation. You’ll want to listen to that half first. We continue our discussion of your role in the […]
This is our first of a two part discussion of the Transition to Ownership stage of writing growth. This is the time when your 13-14 year olds (8th-9th graders) are making the somewhat treacherous journey from adorable, fact-centered child to rhetorical imagination (the awareness that the world is inhabited by unlimited numbers of perspectives). Noah […]
Today’s podcast features the characteristics of writers between the ages of 11-12. Join us as we look at how you can create the conditions for growth and joy in writing with your kids. Julie UPDATED: Faltering Ownership product now available A Year-Long Language Arts Plan! 11-12 year olds (age range is approximate) Developmentally appropriate projects. […]
We press on! This week’s podcast is the second in the series where we look at each of the natural developmental stages of growth in writing. This particular episode focuses on the most overlooked stage of development in the writing journey and accounts for the development of writer’s block and writing resistance in kids. If […]
In this week’s podcast is the first in a series where we look at each of the natural developmental stages of growth in writing. In my years of working with families, I’ve found that it is much more effective to look at how writers grow naturally than to focus on scope and sequence, grade level, […]
Our second podcast features a discussion between Noah and me. We look at how a parent can help a child understand the value of writing in his or her life rather than resenting or resisting it. Noah shares memories from when we worked on writing together when he was young. And we added intro music. […]