Episodes

  • Breaking the Stigma with Sue Ellen Alpizar

    Breaking the Stigma with Sue Ellen Alpizar
    Apr 24 2024
    On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with Freedom Writer Sue Ellen Alpizar to discuss her powerful story of resilience and healing. Sue Ellen shares the challenges of growing up in a dysfunctional household, the impact of losing her brother, and her decision to break the cycle of silence surrounding mental health. Throughout the conversation, Sue Ellen offers valuable insights on the importance of seeking support, the benefits of various mental health treatments, and the power of using one's voice to inspire others. Her story is a reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always hope, and that by embracing vulnerability, we can pave the way for healing and connection. Tune in to hear more!
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    54 mins
  • Commanding Respect and Defying Expectations with Shanate Jones

    Commanding Respect and Defying Expectations with Shanate Jones
    Mar 13 2024
    On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with Freedom Writer Shanate Jones. They discuss the traumatic experience of Shanate's youth, like having her childhood home invaded by police, the challenges she faced with disrespectful authority figures, and overcoming depression. Shanate also discusses her time in the military, the importance of integrity, and her "superhero" ability to connect with marginalized kids. Throughout the conversation, Shanate's wisdom shines through as she shares impactful metaphors and life lessons learned from her mother and reflects on the momentous achievement of graduating college alongside her twin sister and fellow Freedom Writers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with laughter, tears, and profound insights from a true queen.
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    54 mins
  • Championing Change with Latilla Cain

    Championing Change with Latilla Cain
    Feb 7 2024
    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.
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    55 mins
  • Rising Above: Carlos Barragan's Journey from Tagging to Triumph

    Rising Above: Carlos Barragan's Journey from Tagging to Triumph
    Jan 17 2024
    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 only explores Carlos' transformation from being misunderstood and mislabeled in his youth to achieving financial and personal success but also highlights the power of resilience, unconditional support, and the strength of the human spirit. Listen in as Carlos' story unfolds, showcasing a journey of triumph over trials and the unbreakable bonds that can change a life forever.
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    55 mins
  • From Caricature to Character with Melvin Logan

    From Caricature to Character with Melvin Logan
    Dec 13 2023
    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 for a lifetime of advocacy and empowerment. We hope this episode leaves you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference.
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    55 mins
  • Discovering Hope with Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra

    Discovering Hope with Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra
    Nov 15 2023
    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 find strength in their struggles and recognize the potential for growth and transformation in the face of adversity.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Defining Resilience with Narada Comans

    Defining Resilience with Narada Comans
    Oct 19 2023
    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 out a path of hope and empowerment, turning pain into a powerful narrative that has reached, and will continue to reach, hearts globally. Join Erin Gruwell in this profound dialogue, exploring the depth of Narada’s harrowing yet inspiring journey and discover the potent resilience that lies within the human spirit, capable of transforming anguish into a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless souls navigating through their storms. To invite Narada or any Freedom Writer to your school or event, please contact Rick Croom (rick@freedomwritersfoundation.org).
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    54 mins
  • #106: "Reimagining Education" with Dr. Robert Alsop

    #106: "Reimagining Education" with Dr. Robert Alsop
    Aug 9 2023
    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.
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    1 hr