278. Comics Make You Smart! Brave Writer podcast

56:14

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

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

hace 8 días59:14

59:14

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

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

hace 15 días57:31

57:31

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

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

hace 22 días1:04:03

1:04:03

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

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

hace 29 días46:38

46:38

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…

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273. Announcing Julie's New Book 42:22

hace 5 weeks42:22

42:22

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…

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272. Playing Big with Tara Mohr (Part 2) 38:50

hace 6 weeks38:50

38:50

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…

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271. Playing Big with Tara Mohr (Part 1) 41:12

hace 7 weeks41:12

41:12

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…

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270. Celebrating Karen O’Connor 46:33

hace 8 weeks46:33

46:33

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…

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269. 25th Anniversary Celebration, Part 2! 1:07:38

hace 9 weeks1:07:38

1:07:38

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…

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268. Brave Writer's 25th Anniversary (Part 1) 57:47

hace 10 weeks57:47

57:47

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…

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267. Natural Learning and the Brain 1:08:51

hace 12 weeks1:08:51

1:08:51

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…

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266. Julie's Back! 41:01

hace 13 weeks41:01

41:01

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…

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265. Celebrating Book Series with Dawn Smith 49:16

hace 14 weeks49:16

49:16

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…

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264. Rabbit Trails and Rabbit Holes 43:59

hace 15 weeks43:59