Freedom Writers Podcast

Latest Episodes:

What We Carry Forward Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

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.

Tea with Ms. G - Back to School Edition featuring Dr. Carl Cohn Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

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.

Tea with Ms. G - Pride Edition featuring Judy Shepard Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

The latest installment of our “Tea with Ms. G” Livestream Series is now available here on the Freedom Writers Podcast. Listen to a thoughtful and inspiring Pride Edition conversation featuring Freedom Writer Teachers Rachel Workentine, Diana Beltrani, and Francisco Lopez with Freedom Writers Foundation Chief of Staff Bryan Solis. Hosted by Erin Gruwell, also known as Ms. G, this robust roundtable explores LGBTQIA+ identity, visibility, and what it means to create classrooms where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Drawing from their personal experiences as proud members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their work as educators, our panelists share honest reflections on the challenges and joys of showing up authentically at school and in the world. This episode is a meaningful listen for educators, allies, and anyone committed to building more inclusive communities. Listen all the way to the end for a special excerpt from our archive featuring Judy Shepard. Following the 1998 murder of her son Matthew Shepard, Judy and her husband Dennis became lifelong advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights. This excerpt includes the moving speech Ellen DeGeneres delivered at Matthew’s vigil, offering a resounding reminder to continue the fight for love, dignity, and equality.

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