EPISODE 17: Why This Former Teacher Created Books That Change Kids' Lives

Welcome to Parents Talk, the podcast focused on raising strong, confident kids today so we don’t have to fix what was broken later in life.

I’m your host, Francine Juhlin, founder of The Confidence Club for Kids. Each episode brings thoughtful conversations and practical guidance to help parents support their children’s emotional growth, confidence, and personal development.

In this episode, we are joined by Ashley Wahl, M.Ed., former educator and co founder of MamaBear Books. Ashley shares her journey from the classroom to becoming a children’s book author dedicated to helping kids build confidence, spark imagination, and develop a lifelong love of reading. Drawing from her background in education, she explains how storytelling can support emotional growth while encouraging creativity and curiosity.

The conversation explores how imaginative stories help children embrace their individuality, strengthen critical thinking, and see new possibilities for themselves. Ashley also shares practical ideas parents and caregivers can use to encourage reading at home and make storytelling a meaningful part of everyday family life.

This episode is a reminder that books can do more than entertain. They can help children feel confident in who they are while inspiring creativity, connection, and a love for learning that lasts.

Join us as we explore parenting tools and meaningful conversations that help children grow with confidence, one episode at a time.