Freedom Writers Podcast artwork

Freedom Writers Podcast

208 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago - ★★★★★ - 78 ratings

Podcast by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers

Education
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Episodes

Championing Change with Latilla Cain

February 07, 2024 08:00 - 54 minutes - 95.3 MB

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, join Erin Gruwell as she speaks with original Freedom Writer Latilla Cain, who delves into her life's mission of championing for others. Through heartfelt stories, Latilla illustrates the importance of support, love, and understanding in forging paths to success and building stronger communities.

Rising Above: Carlos Barragan's Journey from Tagging to Triumph

January 17, 2024 08:00 - 55 minutes - 100 MB

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, join Erin Gruwell and original Freedom Writer Carlos Barragan as they delve into Carlos' remarkable journey from the challenging streets of Long Beach to a life of purpose and success. In a candid conversation, Carlos opens up about his past as a graffiti artist known as 'Idol,' his struggle with family abandonment, and how his unique bond with Erin, akin to a mother-son relationship, helped him overcome life's adversities. This episode not onl...

From Caricature to Character with Melvin Logan

December 13, 2023 08:00 - 54 minutes - 99.4 MB

In this episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by original Freedom Writer Melvin Logan to unfold a tale of change and growth. Discover how a single classroom note sparked a revolution in education, and follow Melvin's path from a troubled youth on the gang-riddled streets of 1990s Long Beach to a catalyst for change in classrooms across the globe. Now, as a proud husband, father, and speaker with the Freedom Writers Foundation, Melvin reflects on how a teacher's belief in his potential set the stage...

Discovering Hope with Freedom Writer Tony Becerra

November 15, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 100 MB

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell and original Freedom Writer Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra explore themes of ambition, identity, and hope. Tony shares his powerful story, starting with the significance of his name and the personal choice to adopt "Tony" as a means to avoid ridicule and mispronunciation by teachers. Through his candid conversation with Erin, Tony's story becomes a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance, inspiring listeners to ...

Discovering Hope with Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra

November 15, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 100 MB

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell and original Freedom Writer Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra explore themes of ambition, identity, and hope. Tony shares his powerful story, starting with the significance of his name and the personal choice to adopt "Tony" as a means to avoid ridicule and mispronunciation by teachers. Through his candid conversation with Erin, Tony's story becomes a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance, inspiring listeners to ...

Defining Resilience with Narada Comans

October 19, 2023 07:00 - 54 minutes - 94.4 MB

Journey through a vivid tapestry of resilience and relentless spirit with Narada Comans on this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast. From a tumultuous neighborhood of Pittsburgh to the chaotic streets of Los Angeles during the infamous riots, Narada's childhood was a battlefield, punctuated by domestic violence, homelessness, and racial tension. Despite being marred by agonizing moments, his story unfolds not as a tragedy but as a triumphant tale of overcoming, as he miraculously carves o...

#106: "Reimagining Education" with Dr. Robert Alsop

August 09, 2023 07:00 - 1 hour - 104 MB

In this week's episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by Dr. Robert Alsop, President of Waldorf University. Dr. Alsop and Waldorf’s commitment to fostering an environment where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged is truly inspiring, and we hope this episode leaves you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference.

#105: "Turning Stigmas into Strength" w/ Dr. Freda and Jayden Braddock

July 26, 2023 07:00 - 50 minutes - 95.7 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Jayden Braddock, a student author who shares his journey of navigating an autism diagnosis and finding his voice through writing. Joining them is Jayden's mother, Dr. Freda Braddock, an educator who advocates for inclusive classrooms. Dr. Braddock offers advice to parents seeking accommodations for neurodivergent children. Together, they explore the power of language, harmful labels versus empowering words, and the importance of embracing neuro...

#104: Disability Pride Month w/ Jasmine Matthews & Nare Garibyan

July 12, 2023 07:00 - 53 minutes - 73.9 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Jasmine Matthews, a disability advocate and student author from Dear Freedom Writer. Jasmine discusses her journey as a sight-impaired individual and the importance of redefining the language used to describe disabilities. They are also joined by Nare Garibyan, an esteemed author and educator who has been a mentor to Jasmine. Together, they explore the power of representation, the impact of accommodations in education, and the need for a suppo...

#103: Celebrating Pride Month

June 28, 2023 07:00 - 1 hour - 63.3 MB

In this week’s powerful episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, host Erin Gruwell is joined by four dynamic individuals who are making a difference as activists and educators. Tara Bordeaux, Dean Abraham, Jasmine Nelson, and Aaron Bos-Lun share their personal experiences and insights, discussing topics like representation, identity, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society. From the struggles of seeking acceptance to the importance of creating safe spaces for students, this e...

#102: Celebrating Father's Day w/ Freedom Writers Carlos Barragan & Melvin Logan

June 14, 2023 07:00 - 51 minutes - 47.2 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by original Freedom Writers, Melvin Logan and Carlos Barragan. Both Carlos and Melvin are inspiring and loving fathers who share what it was like growing up in Long Beach surrounded by poverty, racism, and gang violence. They discuss their survival, how they turned their pain into purpose, and breaking the cycle of generational trauma to prevail as the loving fathers they are today. This episode is a heartfelt look into what it means to be a dad,...

#101: Lessons from the Stage & Screen w/ Tony-Award Winner John Benjamin Hickey

May 31, 2023 07:00 - 56 minutes - 77.9 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Tony Award-winning actor John Benjamin Hickey – who plays Brian Gilford (one of the rival educators) in the film “Freedom Writers.” John shares his insights on the transformative power of storytelling, how his roles have influenced his outlook on life, and the lessons he’s learned along the way from stage to screen. John’s insights into character creation and the importance of empathy in acting are a must-listen for any aspiring creatives, and...

#100: "And Tango Makes Three" Beyond the Ban w/ Dr. Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell

May 17, 2023 07:00 - 50 minutes - 46 MB

#100: "And Tango Makes Three" Beyond the Ban w/ Dr. Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell by Erin Gruwell and the Freedom Writers

#99: Unbreakable Threads w/ Holocaust Survivor Trudie Strobel & Jody Savin

May 03, 2023 07:00 - 59 minutes - 81.2 MB

On this week's episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by Trudie Strobel, a Holocaust survivor whose astonishing path took her from a childhood of hardship in Ukraine to a life of strength and creativity in the United States. Together with Jody Savin, an acclaimed filmmaker and Trudie's biographer, they explore the impact of art, healing, and perseverance on the human soul. This conversation with Trudie and Jody is a testament to the unbreakable resolve that exists with...

#98: Reflecting on the Cambodian Genocide w/ Loung Ung

April 19, 2023 07:00 - 1 hour - 59.3 MB

In this powerful episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, we are honored to share the story of Loung Ung, a Cambodian-American human rights activist and author. Loung takes us on an emotional journey through her harrowing experiences as a child under the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia, recounting the unimaginable adversity she faced and the resilience that carried her through it all. Loung recounts her harrowing experiences under the Khmer Rouge regime as described in her memoir, ...

#97: Embracing Survival after the Rwandan Genocide w/ Dydine Umunyana-Anderson

April 05, 2023 07:00 - 46 minutes - 63.7 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Rwandan genocide survivor and activist, Dydine Umunyana-Anderson. Dydine shares her harrowing journey of survival during the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, her path to healing, and her unwavering dedication to fostering understanding, empathy, and change. Dydine's story is remarkable, and we hope this episode will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. To learn more about Dydine and her work, visit her websit...

#96: Young Playwrights Ukraine w/ Laura Cahill, Uliana Klimchuk, & Alex Feldman

March 22, 2023 07:00 - 57 minutes - 78.6 MB

On this week's show, Erin Gruwell speaks with three incredible guests: acclaimed actor Alex Feldman, Ukrainian playwright Uliana Klimchuk, and Emmy-nominated writer and producer, Laura Cahill. They discuss the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, and how Young Playwrights Ukraine aims to give refugees fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine a voice through theater. These amazing artists and activists are inspiring a new generation of Ukrainians to stand up, speak up, and speak out, and we hope their st...

#95: Women's History Month

March 08, 2023 08:00 - 33 minutes - 46.4 MB

On this week's episode, we hear from four members of our Freedom Writer Family as they speak about their female heroes. First, Freedom Writer Norma Bravo-Lemler celebrates the mother of naturopathic medicine, Dr. Louisa Lust. Then, Freedom Writer Teacher Meghan Abruzzo reflects on mental health advocate and educator Nichole Sachs. Next, Freedom Writer Cynthia Ray-De La Vega honors the groundbreaking work of legal scholar and professor Dr. Kimberlé Crenshaw. Finally, Freedom Writer Teacher Dr....

#94: Celebrating Black History Month

February 22, 2023 08:00 - 33 minutes - 46.3 MB

On this week's episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, join Erin Gruwell and four members of our Freedom Writer Family as they share some inspiring stories of African-American heroism in celebration of Black History Month. Freedom Writer Narada Comans honors the late Congressman John Lewis, Freedom Writer Teacher Lex Morgan shares the story of Ruby Bridges, Freedom Writer Kimberlee Morrison celebrates Nobel Laureate Tony Morrison, and Freedom Writer Teacher Dr. Ronnie Gordon reflects on every...

#99: Powering Education in Ukraine w/ Katya Yarotskaya

December 14, 2022 08:00 - 52 minutes - 71.9 MB

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Katya Yarotskaya, a passionate activist and advocate for Ukraine from Russia. They discuss Katya’s work bridging the digital divide for students affected by the war in Ukraine, how it feels to be a Russian during the current conflict, and the importance of supporting human rights no matter where you’re from. Get inspired and empowered to make a difference as they discuss the meaningful impact everyday people can have on the world!

#93: Powering Education in Ukraine w/ Katya Yarotskaya

December 14, 2022 08:00 - 52 minutes - 71.9 MB

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Katya Yarotskaya, a passionate activist and advocate for Ukraine from Russia. They discuss Katya’s work bridging the digital divide for students affected by the war in Ukraine, how it feels to be a Russian during the current conflict, and the importance of supporting human rights no matter where you’re from. Get inspired and empowered to make a difference as they discuss the meaningful impact everyday people can have on the world!

#85: Live to Tell w/ Edie Mermelstein

November 30, 2022 08:00 - 51 minutes - 70.3 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Edie Mermelstein, an attorney and Holocaust educator. They discuss the recent and troubling rise in antisemitism on social media, Edie's family's incredible work with the Auschwitz Study Foundation, and the importance of keeping stories from the Holocaust alive. This episode is sadly more relevant than ever, but we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Learn More About the Auschwitz Study Foundation: ht...

#98: Live to Tell w/ Edie Mermelstein

November 30, 2022 08:00 - 51 minutes - 70.3 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Edie Mermelstein, an attorney and Holocaust educator. They discuss the recent and troubling rise in antisemitism on social media, Edie's family's incredible work with the Auschwitz Study Foundation, and the importance of keeping stories from the Holocaust alive. This episode is sadly more relevant than ever, but we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Learn More About the Auschwitz Study Foundation: ht...

#92: Live to Tell w/ Edie Mermelstein

November 30, 2022 08:00 - 51 minutes - 70.3 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Edie Mermelstein, an attorney and Holocaust educator. They discuss the recent and troubling rise in antisemitism on social media, Edie's family's incredible work with the Auschwitz Study Foundation, and the importance of keeping stories from the Holocaust alive. This episode is sadly more relevant than ever, but we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Learn More About the Auschwitz Study Foundation: ht...

#91: My Flag Has No Country w/ Nyaz Burhan & Mic Wegmann

November 16, 2022 11:05 - 44 minutes - 41.1 MB

On this week's episode, join Erin Gruwell as she speaks with Nyaz Burhan, a Kurdish student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his amazing Freedom Writer Teacher, Michael Wegmann, who hails from Germany. They discuss Nyaz's harrowing journey as a Kurdish refugee, and how the power of education has helped him to heal, find his voice, and build a new life in Europe. This story is both heartbreaking and heroic, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to ma...

#84: My Flag Has No Country w/ Nyaz Burhan & Mic Wegmann

November 16, 2022 11:05 - 44 minutes - 41.1 MB

On this week's episode, join Erin Gruwell as she speaks with Nyaz Burhan, a Kurdish student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his amazing Freedom Writer Teacher, Michael Wegmann, who hails from Germany. They discuss Nyaz's harrowing journey as a Kurdish refugee, and how the power of education has helped him to heal, find his voice, and build a new life in Europe. This story is both heartbreaking and heroic, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to ma...

#97: My Flag Has No Country w/ Nyaz Burhan & Mic Wegmann

November 16, 2022 11:05 - 44 minutes - 41.1 MB

On this week's episode, join Erin Gruwell as she speaks with Nyaz Burhan, a Kurdish student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his amazing Freedom Writer Teacher, Michael Wegmann, who hails from Germany. They discuss Nyaz's harrowing journey as a Kurdish refugee, and how the power of education has helped him to heal, find his voice, and build a new life in Europe. This story is both heartbreaking and heroic, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to ma...

#83: They Are My Pronouns w/ Samuel DePace

November 02, 2022 07:00 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

On today's episode, Erin interviews Samuel DePace, a celebrated student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer. Samuel, or “Sam” as Erin affectionately refers to him is a trans man. Sam candidly discusses what it was like to grow up feeling out of place in his own body, and how he ultimately found the strength to live his truth. Sam's courage and authenticity are truly inspiring, and we hope this episode will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase D...

#90: They Are My Pronouns w/ Samuel DePace

November 02, 2022 07:00 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

On today's episode, Erin interviews Samuel DePace, a celebrated student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer. Samuel, or “Sam” as Erin affectionately refers to him is a trans man. Sam candidly discusses what it was like to grow up feeling out of place in his own body, and how he ultimately found the strength to live his truth. Sam's courage and authenticity are truly inspiring, and we hope this episode will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase D...

#96: They Are My Pronouns w/ Samuel DePace

November 02, 2022 07:00 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

On today's episode, Erin interviews Samuel DePace, a celebrated student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer. Samuel, or “Sam” as Erin affectionately refers to him is a trans man. Sam candidly discusses what it was like to grow up feeling out of place in his own body, and how he ultimately found the strength to live his truth. Sam's courage and authenticity are truly inspiring, and we hope this episode will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase D...

#95: Ukraine Needs You w/ Lenny Shteynberg

October 19, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 23 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by two Ukrainians currently living in the United States. Our first guest, Lenny Shtyenberg, is one of the co-founders of UkraineNeedsYou.org - an impressive mental health care non-profit that provides services to those affected by the conflict. Lenny makes a passionate plea about what you can do to help support their efforts. Later, we are joined by a Ukrainian member of our Freedom Writer family, Laurence Bezinover, whose parents escaped the for...

#89: Ukraine Needs You w/ Lenny Shteynberg

October 19, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 23 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by two Ukrainians currently living in the United States. Our first guest, Lenny Shtyenberg, is one of the co-founders of UkraineNeedsYou.org - an impressive mental health care non-profit that provides services to those affected by the conflict. Lenny makes a passionate plea about what you can do to help support their efforts. Later, we are joined by a Ukrainian member of our Freedom Writer family, Laurence Bezinover, whose parents escaped the for...

#82: Ukraine Needs You w/ Lenny Shteynberg

October 19, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 23 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by two Ukrainians currently living in the United States. Our first guest, Lenny Shtyenberg, is one of the co-founders of UkraineNeedsYou.org - an impressive mental health care non-profit that provides services to those affected by the conflict. Lenny makes a passionate plea about what you can do to help support their efforts. Later, we are joined by a Ukrainian member of our Freedom Writer family, Laurence Bezinover, whose parents escaped the for...

#81 Finding Your Vision & Your Voice w/ Dr. Tiffany Lopez

September 28, 2022 07:00 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MB

On today's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with dramaturge, author, and the new dean of the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine, Dr. Tiffany Lopez. They discuss Dr. Lopez's journey from being a first generation college student to becoming a leading voice in the fight for diversity and inclusion in higher education and the arts. This episode is packed with inspiring insights, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase Dr. Lopez's book...

#88: Finding Your Vision & Your Voice w/ Dr. Tiffany Lopez

September 28, 2022 07:00 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MB

On today's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with dramaturge, author, and the new dean of the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine, Dr. Tiffany Lopez. They discuss Dr. Lopez's journey from being a first generation college student to becoming a leading voice in the fight for diversity and inclusion in higher education and the arts. This episode is packed with inspiring insights, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase Dr. Lopez's book...

#94: Finding Your Vision & Your Voice w/ Dr. Tiffany Lopez

September 28, 2022 07:00 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MB

On today's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with dramaturge, author, and the new dean of the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine, Dr. Tiffany Lopez. They discuss Dr. Lopez's journey from being a first generation college student to becoming a leading voice in the fight for diversity and inclusion in higher education and the arts. This episode is packed with inspiring insights, and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference. Purchase Dr. Lopez's book...

#80 How to Deal with Bullying feat. Krish Sharma & Sam Norwood

September 13, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 58.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Krish Sharma, a British student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his fabulous Freedom Writer Teacher, Sam Norwood. They discuss Krish's struggles with bullying, how important trust is for victims of bullying, and how parents, teachers, and students alike can protect students from bullying. This episode is a powerful look at how to find strength in the face of adversity and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empo...

#87 How to Deal with Bullying feat. Krish Sharma & Sam Norwood

September 13, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 58.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Krish Sharma, a British student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his fabulous Freedom Writer Teacher, Sam Norwood. They discuss Krish's struggles with bullying, how important trust is for victims of bullying, and how parents, teachers, and students alike can protect students from bullying. This episode is a powerful look at how to find strength in the face of adversity and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empo...

#93 How to Deal with Bullying feat. Krish Sharma & Sam Norwood

September 13, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 58.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Krish Sharma, a British student author from our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his fabulous Freedom Writer Teacher, Sam Norwood. They discuss Krish's struggles with bullying, how important trust is for victims of bullying, and how parents, teachers, and students alike can protect students from bullying. This episode is a powerful look at how to find strength in the face of adversity and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empo...

#79 Speaking My Mother Tongue w/ Lucas Hammeken & Torbjørn Ydegaard

August 24, 2022 07:00 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Lucas Hammeken, a Greenlandic student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his former headmaster, Torbjørn Ydegaard, a dedicated Freedom Writer Teacher who hails from Denmark. They discuss the linguistic challenges faced by students in Greenland, how Torbjørn and Lucas braved the COVID-19 pandemic in their rural village and the pride that Lucas feels as an author in Dear Freedom Writer. This episode is a fascinating look into how ...

#92 Speaking My Mother Tongue w/ Lucas Hammeken & Torbjørn Ydegaard

August 24, 2022 07:00 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Lucas Hammeken, a Greenlandic student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his former headmaster, Torbjørn Ydegaard, a dedicated Freedom Writer Teacher who hails from Denmark. They discuss the linguistic challenges faced by students in Greenland, how Torbjørn and Lucas braved the COVID-19 pandemic in their rural village and the pride that Lucas feels as an author in Dear Freedom Writer. This episode is a fascinating look into how ...

#86 Speaking My Mother Tongue w/ Lucas Hammeken & Torbjørn Ydegaard

August 24, 2022 07:00 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Lucas Hammeken, a Greenlandic student author from the new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his former headmaster, Torbjørn Ydegaard, a dedicated Freedom Writer Teacher who hails from Denmark. They discuss the linguistic challenges faced by students in Greenland, how Torbjørn and Lucas braved the COVID-19 pandemic in their rural village and the pride that Lucas feels as an author in Dear Freedom Writer. This episode is a fascinating look into how ...

#91: Maori Misunderstood with Meredith & Casey Akuhata-Brown

August 02, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 51.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with New Zealand’s Gisborne District Councillor, Meredith Akuhata-Brown, and her daughter, Casey - two proud, Maori members of our Freedom Writer Family. They discuss the history of the Maori people, the effects of New Zealand's colonization by the British, and the importance of knowing and accepting your cultural roots. This episode is an eye-opening look into the lingering effects of colonization, and how community activism and involvement can ove...

#78: Maori Misunderstood with Meredith & Casey Akuhata-Brown

August 02, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 51.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with New Zealand’s Gisborne District Councillor, Meredith Akuhata-Brown, and her daughter, Casey - two proud, Maori members of our Freedom Writer Family. They discuss the history of the Maori people, the effects of New Zealand's colonization by the British, and the importance of knowing and accepting your cultural roots. This episode is an eye-opening look into the lingering effects of colonization, and how community activism and involvement can ove...

#85: Maori Misunderstood with Meredith & Casey Akuhata-Brown

August 02, 2022 07:00 - 48 minutes - 51.1 MB

On this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with New Zealand’s Gisborne District Councillor, Meredith Akuhata-Brown, and her daughter, Casey - two proud, Maori members of our Freedom Writer Family. They discuss the history of the Maori people, the effects of New Zealand's colonization by the British, and the importance of knowing and accepting your cultural roots. This episode is an eye-opening look into the lingering effects of colonization, and how community activism and involvement can ove...

Special Episode: Remembering Alexi Rodriguez

July 19, 2022 07:00 - 45 minutes - 53.1 MB

Today's episode is serious and somber as we share that our Freedom Writer Family has lost a beloved member. Alexi Rodriguez, whom we affectionately refer to as “Lexi,"  tragically took her life. As a student author in our new book, DEAR FREEDOM WRITER, Lexi penned her pain in the letter "Perpetual Patient.” The loss of Lexi compelled us to create a safe space to discuss suicide, to encourage those experiencing thoughts of suicide to seek help, and to increase factors that promote suicide prev...

#83: "My Two Dads" w/ Dear Freedom Writer Student Author Kyan

June 22, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 48.4 MB

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with 11 year old Kyan, a student author from our newest book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his parents, Dale and Manuel. To help celebrate Pride month, they discuss the inspiration for Kyan’s Dear Freedom Writer story, the righteous indignation Kyan uses to fuel his activism and how they are both allies and advocates for LGBTQIA+ families across the world. This episode is incredibly insightful and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowe...

#89: "My Two Dads" w/ Dear Freedom Writer Student Author Kyan

June 22, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 48.4 MB

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with 11 year old Kyan, a student author from our newest book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his parents, Dale and Manuel. To help celebrate Pride month, they discuss the inspiration for Kyan’s Dear Freedom Writer story, the righteous indignation Kyan uses to fuel his activism and how they are both allies and advocates for LGBTQIA+ families across the world. This episode is incredibly insightful and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowe...

#77: "My Two Dads" w/ Dear Freedom Writer Student Author Kyan

June 22, 2022 07:00 - 42 minutes - 48.4 MB

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with 11 year old Kyan, a student author from our newest book, Dear Freedom Writer, and his parents, Dale and Manuel. To help celebrate Pride month, they discuss the inspiration for Kyan’s Dear Freedom Writer story, the righteous indignation Kyan uses to fuel his activism and how they are both allies and advocates for LGBTQIA+ families across the world. This episode is incredibly insightful and we hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowe...

Special Announcement: Gun Violence in Schools

June 07, 2022 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MB

In light of the recent carnage in Uvalde, Texas and other communities across the United States, we have decided to share previous podcasts we have done with students, teachers and parents from the Columbine, Sandy Hook and Parkland school shootings. In these trying times, we encourage you to go back and listen to some or all of these previous episodes to help ignite your passion for change. Darrell Scott's Episode: https://bit.ly/39bQ2cv Scarlett Lewis Episode: https://bit.ly/3Q4FIDB Parkla...

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@writebackuk 3 Episodes
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