Freedom Writers Podcast

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Freedom Writers Foundation presents a special edition of Tea with Ms. G, hosted by Erin Gruwell. Joined by Freedom Writer Teachers Norma Lemler, Roma Flores, and Ernesto Rangel, this thoughtful conversation explores the importance of cultural identity, representation, and the power of education to uplift diverse voices.

Through personal stories and classroom experiences, our guests reflect on the richness of Hispanic and Latino heritage, the challenges facing students and educators, and the importance of creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

Join us for an inspiring discussion about honoring our histories, embracing our identities, and empowering the next generation through storytelling, understanding, and education.

In this powerful episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Rarou Kong reflects on family, identity, and the histories we inherit. Through her personal story, Rarou explores the courage it takes to confront the past, preserve the experiences of those who came before us, and determine what we carry into the future. Her journey is a moving reminder that our histories can give us strength and purpose without defining the limits of who we can become.

Stay through the end of the episode for a special archival excerpt featuring Loung Ung, author of First They Killed My Father, as she reflects on surviving the Khmer Rouge, honoring memory, and transforming unimaginable loss into a lifelong commitment to peace and human dignity.

The latest installment of our “Tea with Ms. G” Livestream Series is now available here on the Freedom Writers Podcast. Listen to a thoughtful Back to School Edition conversation featuring four Freedom Writer Teachers working with students in four different parts of the country. Chauncy Williams serves as the Academy Coach for the Innovation Academies of Muskegon Public Schools, Karen Lynn Kazemi teaches newcomers to the United States in Aurora, Colorado, Deb Kubin is Superintendent of the Ukiah Unified School District, and David Hoffman is a counselor supporting student mental health alongside his canine companion in Upstate New York. Hosted by Erin Gruwell, also known as Ms. G, this robust roundtable brings together perspectives from across the education system to explore the challenges students and educators are facing as they head back into the classroom. Drawing from their experiences as teachers, counselors, administrators, and advocates, our panelists reflect on what students need to feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. This episode is a meaningful listen for educators and anyone committed to creating classrooms, schools, and districts where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Listen all the way to the end for a special excerpt from our archive featuring Dr. Carl Cohn. Drawing from his experience as a superintendent during the 1992 Los Angeles riots, Dr. Cohn reflects on leading schools through crisis and the vital role educators can play in helping a community heal and rebuild after tragedy.