We’re super excited to have Armida Espinoza on the show! She’s a retired bilingual teacher, a proud first-generation Mexican American, and the author of the touching children’s book, *Brave Learns English*. Armida's story resonates deeply with countless English language learners, capturing the emotional rollercoaster of stepping into a new language and culture. Through her protagonist, Lois, she paints a vivid picture of the fears and triumphs that come with learning to express oneself in a new tongue. We’ll delve into her journey, explore her inspirations, and discuss how she empowers others to tap into their inner strength while navigating the challenges of language learning. So, grab your favorite snack and settle in, because this conversation is going to be both enlightening and a lot of fun!

Armida Espinoza joins us to share her heartwarming journey as a first-generation Mexican American and retired bilingual teacher. Through her book, 'Brave Learns English,' she paints a vivid picture of the struggles and triumphs faced by young English language learners, embodying the fears and insecurities that come from learning a new language. In our chat, Armida opens up about her experiences in school, where she often felt the sting of self-doubt—much like her protagonist Lois. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, not just in language learning, but in life overall. Her story isn't just hers; it resonates with countless individuals, especially those who have had to navigate the complexities of new languages and cultures. She strongly believes that by embracing our inner strength and being brave, we can overcome the negative voices that often hold us back. We're not just here to learn a language; we're here to learn about ourselves and to grow. So, grab a cozy seat and join us as we dive into the heartfelt and inspiring world of Armida Espinoza, where every challenge is a stepping stone on your journey to becoming your authentic self.

Takeaways:

• Armida Espinoza's inspiring journey as a bilingual teacher highlights the challenges faced by English language learners.
• Her book, 'Brave Learns English', explores the fears and triumphs of learning a new language.
• Armida emphasizes the importance of being authentic and true to oneself despite societal pressures.
• The episode discusses the negative self-talk that often hinders learning and how to combat it.
• Armida's experiences reveal how vital it is to support second language learners in educational settings.
• She encourages teachers to provide a safe space for students to process their learning at their own pace.