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
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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