From ABCs to Confidence

Today’s Guest: Armida Espinoza

The Power of Early Experiences

Ami shares a vivid childhood memory of being unable to recite the alphabet in front of her first-grade class—an event that shaped years of self-doubt, avoidance, and silence.

She explains how these emotions followed her through 12 years of school, leading to a pattern of not asking for help and falling academically behind.

⭐ Episode Summary

In this episode of Kim Talks Books, host Kim Hayden sits down with Ami, a retired elementary teacher and now author and speaker. Ami’s book Brave Loyalist Learns English explores the emotional journey behind learning language, overcoming shame, and confronting the inner voice that tells us “you can’t.”

Through a deeply personal story of a childhood experience in first grade, Ami uncovers the damaging impact of embarrassment, fear, and silence—and how these early moments shape confidence for years to come. This conversation highlights universal struggles shared by children, new Canadians, second-language learners, and even adults facing new challenges.

Ami’s message: we all have an inner voice that tries to protect us, but reframing our thoughts and pushing through discomfort leads to growth, confidence, and learning.

📖 Featured Books by Armida Espinoza

• Earth’s Ecocide Series

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Website https://www.armidaespinoza.com/