Welcome to this summer flashback episode of BaseCamp Live! In today’s conversation, host Davies Owens revisits a powerful interview with Andrew Pudewa, founder and director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing.

In an age of shrinking vocabularies, short attention spans, and over-reliance on screens, Andrew shares why writing and speaking well are more critical than ever. He explains that students cannot think complex thoughts without the words to express them, and highlights how classical education – with its focus on grammar, logic, and rhetoric – equips students to become articulate, thoughtful communicators who can engage the world with truth and clarity.

Andrew unpacks the decline he’s witnessed over three decades in students’ vocabulary and attention spans, and why reading aloud, memorizing beautiful language, and teaching students to write and speak persuasively are not just academic exercises but essential skills for life and faithfulness. He challenges parents and educators to see education not merely as preparation for wealth and comfort, but as formation for mission in the world.

With practical encouragement, humorous reflections, and deep conviction, Andrew calls us back to raising students who can read, think, write, and speak well for God’s glory and the good of others.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• Why reading aloud and memorizing are vital for language development
• How writing well prepares students for any vocation
• The role of rhetoric in equipping students to stand firm in today’s culture
• Encouragement for parents and teachers to stay the course in cultivating eloquence

Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:

ZipCast
Wilson Hill Academy
Life Architects Coaching

Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at [email protected]

Don't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.