In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell is joined by Georgie Smith, the founder of A Sense of Home and the 2016 top ten CNN Hero of the Year. They discuss the power of helping others and the importance of exercising the soul through giving. Georgie’s story is incredibly moving, and I hope this episode will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference.

Check out A Sense of Home Online: https://www.asenseofhome.org/

#76: Georgie Smith - A Sense of Home

In this week's episode, Erin Gruwell speaks with Original Freedom Writers Ian, Shanita, Tye, Shanate, Maddie, Calvin, Cynthia, Latilla, Kanha and Chirece. We discuss what it feels like to pass the torch to the next generation and help shape the lives of children from around the world. This episode is a heartwarming look into our writing process for our new book, Dear Freedom Writer, and I hope it will leave you feeling enlightened and empowered to make a difference.

Purchase Dear Freedom Writer: https://bit.ly/3wpsB8N
Donate to Our Student Authors: https://tinyurl.com/DearFWFundraiser

#77: Writing Dear Freedom Writer w/ Original Freedom Writers

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.

Discovering Hope with Mauricio Antonio "Tony" Becerra

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.

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

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.

Championing Change with Latilla Cain

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.

Commanding Respect and Defying Expectations with Shanate Jones

Finding Your Voice with Shanita Jones

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell speaks with Trayvon Carter, an original Freedom Writer who has transformed his life from the basketball courts of Long Beach to a successful career in real estate. Trayvon shares his journey of overcoming racial profiling and systemic barriers, highlighting the critical role of mentorship, financial literacy, and community empowerment. He discusses the importance of guiding the next generation, building generational wealth in communities of color, and advocating for social justice. Tune in to hear Trayvon’s inspiring story of resilience, leadership, and unwavering determination to make a difference.

From Adversity to Achievement with Trayvon Carter

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell speaks with Tye Leggins, a Freedom Writer who has transformed his life from a troubled teen to a passionate advocate for change. Tye shares his journey of overcoming trauma and personal struggles, emphasizing the power of empathy and self-acceptance. He also discusses the critical role of breaking cycles of violence, healing generational wounds, and the importance of compassion in creating change. Tune in to hear Tye’s inspiring story of resilience, leadership, and his commitment to empowering others on this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast!

Using Empathy as a Superpower w/ Tye Leggins

In this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Tanya Payne to discuss her experiences growing up in Long Beach, navigating systemic inequality, and discovering the power of community. Tanya reflects on the life lessons she learned through failure, the importance of tough love, and how finding her place within the Freedom Writers helped her embrace her authentic self.

As Tanya now faces a battle with cancer, we invite you to join us in supporting her:

Donate to her GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-tanyas-brave-cancer-journey
Assist through Lotsa Helping Hands: https://my.lotsahelpinghands.com/request/tanya-payne-healing/select-email

And of course a very special thank you to the Port of Long Beach for generously sponsoring this episode.

Finding the Strength to Be You w/ Tanya Payne

In this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Donald McFee to explore his unique journey navigating cultural identity, family dynamics, and generational transformation. As a light-skinned Latino with a Scottish last name growing up in predominantly Hispanic Wilmington, Donald shares profound insights about overcoming childhood trauma, breaking cycles of violence, and finding his true identity within the Freedom Writers family. Through his work as a fourth-generation longshoreman at the Port of Long Beach, Donald honors his trailblazing mother while carrying forward a legacy of union pride and worker solidarity.

We also would like to extend our gratitude to the Port of Long Beach for generously sponsoring this episode.

Anchored in Compassion with Donald McFee

In this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Kanya Sim to explore her extraordinary journey from surviving her family's escape from genocide to becoming an advocate for love and resilience. Kanya shares intimate stories about her refugee experience, her role bridging cultures in Long Beach's Cambodian community, and how Buddhist teachings have guided her life. As she now faces stage 4A cancer with remarkable grace, Kanya reflects on the meaning of "soft love," the power of community, and her unwavering belief that hardships only polish us to shine brighter.

As Kanya undergoes chemotherapy and radiation treatment, we invite you to join us in supporting her journey:
Donate to her GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kanya-fight-cancer-a-journey-of-strength-hope

And a special thank you to the Port of Long Beach for generously sponsoring this episode.

Blooming Through Adversity with Kanya Sim

In this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Chirece Noonan to explore her journey from maintaining a perfect facade to embracing authentic connection. As a cheerleader who traveled 45 minutes by bus to attend Wilson High School, Chirece shares profound insights about navigating her parents' divorce, finding sanctuary in Room 203, and transforming her cheerleader spirit into a powerful force for positive change. Through her roles as a trainer, mentor, and mother, Chirece demonstrates how vulnerability and self-acceptance can create spaces where others feel empowered to be their true selves.

Cheering for Change with Chirece Noonan

In this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Dr. Jessica Martinez to explore the power of persistence and the transformative nature of second chances. Dr. Martinez reflects on her early years navigating a childhood shaped by her parents’ teen marriage, her family’s struggles with instability, and the extended periods she spent separated from her mother. Despite these challenges, Jessica discovered a haven in Room 203, embracing vulnerability as a superpower and finding the support of the Freedom Writer family.

Through honest, heartfelt storytelling, Jessica shares how she became the first in her family to graduate from college, ultimately earning her doctorate. She also discusses her current role as a caregiver — standing by her father’s side after a tragic accident claimed her stepmother’s life — and the delicate balance of showing compassion while preserving her own mental health. Listeners will hear how Jessica’s determination, coupled with the encouragement of mentors and her Freedom Writer brothers and sisters, has helped her defy generational limitations. Join Erin and Dr. Martinez for an inspiring conversation about resilience, the importance of mentorship, and the enduring strength found in learning to love — and forgive — those who need it most.

Unlocking Determination with Dr. Jessica Martinez

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by Dr. Edwin Gomez, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, and Sonia Rezkalah, an original Freedom Writer who now serves as the Administrator of Family Engagement at the Riverside County Office of Education. Both guests share their powerful immigrant journeys, Dr. Gomez from Peru and Sonia from Nicaragua, and how education transformed their lives. They discuss their shared mission of creating safe, supportive educational environments for all students, especially the most vulnerable. Their stories of resilience, purpose, and giving back highlight how education truly serves as the great equalizer in an unfair playing field. Together, they offer insights into family engagement, navigating political uncertainty, and empowering young voices in a diverse community of nearly half a million students.

Empowering Families and Transforming Futures with Sonia Rezkalah

On this episode, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Norma Bravo-Lemler for a powerful conversation about family, identity, and the long road to realizing your dreams. As an undocumented student, Norma’s college plans were put on hold — not because of grades, but because of a missing nine-digit number. But what began as heartbreak became fuel for her journey to motherhood, citizenship, and medical school.

Norma opens up about the legacy of her grandfather, the quiet strength of her truck driver father, and the challenges of studying for finals while raising three kids. Through it all, she never let the flame of her dream go out. Now, just two years away from becoming a doctor, Norma is preparing to serve the very communities that shaped her — speaking to patients in their native language and redefining what it means to heal.

This episode is a love letter to resilience, a celebration of second chances, and a reminder that some dreams are marathons, not sprints.

Healing from the Heart: Norma’s Journey to Medicine and Motherhood

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by original Freedom Writer Erica Alcaraz for an intimate conversation about courage, empathy, and storytelling. As a teenager in Room 203, Erica penned Diary #62, a raw yet eloquent account of childhood sexual abuse, featured in "The Freedom Writers Diary." Decades later, her words continue to resonate, empowering survivors around the world to reclaim their voices and share their truths.

Erica reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her life, from breaking her silence in Erin’s classroom to unexpectedly choosing motherhood and raising her remarkable adopted son, Joshua, now a Freedom Writer scholarship recipient heading to college. She shares the emotional complexity of parenting after trauma, the realities of relapse and recovery, and her profound commitment to mentoring others through their darkest hours.

This episode is a powerful reminder that writing can be activism, empathy is essential for healing, and even our most painful experiences can become catalysts for change. It’s a tribute to all who dare to speak their truth — and a call to action for listeners to foster compassion, community, and courage.

Breaking Silence & Finding Strength with Erica Alcaraz

In this moving episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, host Erin Gruwell is joined by Freedom Writer Cynthia Ray-De La Vega. Cynthia courageously shares her extraordinary journey from a childhood marked by instability, food insecurity, and her mother’s untreated mental illness, to finding healing and purpose in Room 203. Her resilience led her to sobriety, academic success, and a master's degree in Social Work. Today, Cynthia passionately serves vulnerable communities as a licensed mental-health professional on Los Angeles’s Skid Row. Her story is an uplifting testament to the transformative power of compassion, second chances, and unwavering hope.

From Survival to Service with Cynthia Ray-De La Vega

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Erin Gruwell sits down with Original Freedom Writer Brenda Zambrano to explore a story of survival, generational healing, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her children. Brenda bravely recounts her journey as an undocumented child crossing the border from Mexico, navigating life in a new country with fear, silence, and a sign around her neck because she couldn’t speak English. From nights spent sleeping on park benches to finding her voice in the classroom, Brenda shares how education, motherhood, and forgiveness helped her break free from the trauma of her past. Now a proud parent of two thriving students—one of whom is a Freedom Writers Scholar—Brenda reflects on her path to healing, honoring her late mother, and creating the kind of home she never had. This episode is a tribute to resilience, compassion, and the quiet strength of a woman who turned pain into purpose.

Crossing Borders and Building Bridges with Freedom Writer Brenda

On this episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell is joined by Original Freedom Writer Yadira Aluiso and her son, Raudell, affectionately known as “the Doctor.” Together, they share a heartfelt conversation about the sacrifices of immigrant families, the transformative power of education, and the multigenerational legacy of the Freedom Writers.

Generations of Grit w/ Yadira & Raudell Aluiso

In this powerful episode, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Michael Bongiorno to explore his journey from trauma and addiction to healing and hope. After losing his home in a wildfire and battling alcoholism as a teen, Michael found strength in writing, recovery, and service. Now 21 years sober, he shares his passion for health, mentorship, and helping others rewrite their stories.

Radical Reinvention with Michael Bongiorno

In this episode of The Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Adriana “AD” Flores, a 20-year veteran educator who has dedicated her career to teaching History, Latino Studies, and Ethnic Studies in Long Beach, California.

The daughter of immigrant parents from Zacatecas, Mexico, AD reflects on her childhood experiences navigating integrated schools, the lessons she learned from her parents’ resilience, and the power of seeing yourself reflected in history. Through her work, she’s helping a new generation of students understand that history is not distant — it’s alive, human, and deeply personal.

Together, Erin and AD explore how inclusive education can bridge cultural divides, empower young people, and rewrite the narrative for communities too often left out of the textbook. This inspiring conversation is a celebration of heritage, history, and the transformative power of education.

History, Heritage, and the Heart of a Teacher with Adriana "AD" Flores

Different by Design with Ian Terrell

In this episode of The Freedom Writers Podcast, Erin Gruwell sits down with original Freedom Writer Sharaud Moore—the student whose experience of bullying in Room 203 ultimately sparked the movement that would become Freedom Writers. Growing up in Long Beach surrounded by gang violence and hampered by the low expectations placed on young African American men, Sharaud learned early how to protect himself and those he loved. In this deeply personal conversation, he reflects on the moments that shaped him, the mentors who stayed, and how those experiences led him to become a devoted father, award-winning educator, and decorated coach. Sharaud’s story is a powerful reminder that mentorship isn’t about saving kids, but about showing up with the consistency they need to exceed the limits the world set for them.

Exceeding Expectations with Sharaud Moore

On the inaugural episode of the Freedom Writers Podcast, one of Ms. G's first students tells a story about a moment in class that changed his life forever. It all started with a drawing, an embarrassed classmate, and a question that surprised everyone: "What is the Holocaust?" 

Next, Erin shares a harrowing discussion she had with Holocaust survivor Renee Firestone and her daughter Klaire about what it was like in the concentration camps, how Klaire learned about the Holocaust from her parents, and a shocking revelation about what happened to Renee's sister at the hands of a Nazi doctor. Renee and Klaire also share their advice about how to learn from history and challenge us to act now to make a difference in the world.

Links and Resources:

Holocaust Education
www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/the-holocaust
www.museumoftolerance.com
www.holocaust.org.uk

The Last Days documentary
www.imdb.com/title/tt0174852/
www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-last-days-1999

Buy Signed Copies of The Freedom Writers Diary
www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/shop

#1 The Holocaust: How to Learn from the Past to Improve the Future with Renee and Klaire Firestone

John Lewis, original 1960's Freedom Rider and now Congressman, tells his story about growing up as an African-American boy in the south and how he became a civil rights activist under the tutelage of Dr. Martin Luther King. He encourages us to stand up for justice and get into "the good kind of trouble" when necessary. Then Erin shares her humbling conversation with the courageous Jim Zwerg, a white male Freedom Rider who protested segregation in the south alongside his friend John Lewis and several other key players of the civil rights movement such as Bernard Lafayette, Jim Bevel, and Diane Nash. Jim paints a vivid picture of the youth movement in Nashville in the early 1960s and then takes us to that fateful moment in Montgomery when he and John stepped off a bus and their lives were changed forever.

Links and Resources:

Books by Congressman John Lewis: https://amzn.to/2XyMOnu

More about the Freedom Riders: 
https://to.pbs.org/2rPYWDV

Jim Zwerg's Speech from the Hospital Bed: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQbqzaRAql8

Buy Signed Copies of The Freedom Writers Diary
www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/shop

#3 Freedom Rides: How to Get Into "Good Trouble" (w/ Jim Zwerg and Congressman John Lewis)

Freedom Writer Teacher Henry Wright tells his story of walking to the bus stop on the morning he integrated his high school in South Carolina. Then Erin shares her stirring conversation with civil rights icon Dr. Terrence Roberts of the Little Rock Nine, who was among the first group of African-American teenagers to integrate a U.S. high school in 1957. Dr. Roberts recounts facing a vicious mob outside the school, being escorted by soldiers through the hallways to each class, and the manner in which teachers and students regarded him and his African-American classmates. Candid and elegantly articulated, Dr. Roberts' message is one of hope and honesty about our past so together we can build a better, more equitable future. 

Links and Resources:

Dr. Terrence Roberts' Website
http://terrenceroberts.com/
 
Buy Dr. Roberts' Book
Lessons from Little Rock: https://amzn.to/2XC75Zo

More on Brown Vs. Board of Education:
https://bit.ly/2GGyNjo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1siiQelPHbQ

More on the Little Rock Nine:
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Little-Rock-Nine
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ym8rdtq-KBE

Iconic Photo of Hazel Brown and Elizabeth Eckford:
https://slate.me/UzTXDf

Learn More About Freedom Writer Teacher Institutes:
http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/programs/teachers 

Buy Your Copy of Teaching Hope:
www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/shop

#6 Little Rock Nine: Integrating the First High School in America with Dr. Terrence Roberts

This episode explores how violence affects children, and the plight of refugees around the globe. First, Original Freedom Writer Bunni Sek explains what it was like being raised by survivors of the Cambodian genocide. Then Erin shares her conversation with Ger Duany, an actor and activist, and known to many as one of the "Lost Boys" of Sudan. When Ger was only 7 years old, his family fled his village in South Sudan and walked for three months to a refugee camp in Ethiopia. Ger recounts in compelling detail the steps of his journey and the challenges he and his family faced. He also paints a vivid picture of what life as a refugee is like -- as a child, an adolescent, and now, as an adult.

Links and Resources:

Questions, stories, reviews? Contact us:
podcast@freedomwritersfoundation.org

Connect with Ger Duany
Website: https://www.gerduany.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ger_duany 

Info about Lost Boys of Sudan
https://www.rescue.org/article/lost-boys-sudan
	
Info about Cambodian Genocide
https://www.history.com/topics/pol-pot 

Buy Signed Copies of Freedom Writers Books
www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/shop

#15 Sudanese Genocide: Trying to Make Sense of Senseless Violence

Our guest today is Dr. Carl Cohn, a nationally celebrated educator and Erin Gruwell's former Superintendent in the Long Beach Unified School District. They discuss Dr. Cohn’s inspiring life of service, the power of listening in leadership, and how to create systemic change. With wisdom and tenderness, Dr. Cohn provides practical and inspirational advice for you, no matter where you are currently serving. You don’t have to be a teacher to learn from his invaluable leadership lessons. 

Support the production of the Freedom Writers Podcast by donating here:
http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/donate

Carl Cohn on Twitter: @carlcohn

Dr. Cohn, Erin Gruwell and Freedom Writer Sue Ellen Alpizar speak on stage with Chapman University President Daniele Struppa: https://blogs.chapman.edu/education/2019/03/07/stories-from-the-heart/

#39 Dr. Carl Cohn: The Power of Listening in Effective Leadership

On this episode, get an inside look into the collaborative writing process for twenty new stories in the 20th Anniversary Edition of The Freedom Writers Diary. How did Ms. G and the Freedom Writers organize their ideas, decide on topics and authors, and move the puzzle pieces around to find the bigger picture? Can they recreate the magic of Room 203 after twenty years? Find out on the newest installment of Freedom Writer 20/20.

LINKS:

Buy your copy of the 20th Anniversary Edition of The Freedom Writers Diary:
https://tinyurl.com/y5p8w4ut

Learn more about Waldorf University’s Master of Education program:
www.waldorf.edu/FreedomWriters 

Support the production of the Freedom Writers Podcast by donating here:
http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/index.php/donate

Freedom Writer 20/20 Part II: Recreating the Magic of Room 203

In this episode, join Erin Gruwell as she a courageous conversation with two original Freedom Writers, Tye Leggins and Shanate Jones. They share their experiences as African-American parents, activists and veterans living during the age of #BlackLivesMatter. The episode concludes with Dr. Robert Hill, the Vice President of Student Services at Everett Community College. Dr. Hill shares with us his perspective as an African-American educator, and his hopes for a bright future ahead for all students regardless of their race.

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