This episode lit us up in the best way. Amanda sat down with Aaron H. Aceves, author of This Is Why They Hate Us, for a heartfelt conversation about identity and the power of honest storytelling. Aaron’s openness about his own journey challenged us to reflect on how we, as educators, can lead with vulnerability and create space for students to do the same. His protagonist, Enrique, is messy, hilarious, and deeply real—and that kind of representation matters more than ever in our classrooms.Aaron reminded us that books like his are more than stories—they're lifelines for students who need to see themselves in the pages they read. This conversation is a love letter to teachers everywhere, doing the work to bring authentic, diverse voices into their classrooms. We hope it leaves you feeling as inspired as it left us.Resources:Join Camp BNT: Summer 2025This is Why They Hate Us, by Aaron H. AcevesConnect with Aaron:WebsiteInstagram: @aaronacevesTikTokFacebookMore Camp BNT 2025 Episodes:Episode 260, Samira Ahmed: A Conversation About Internment Part 1Episode 261, Samira Ahmed: A Conversation About Internment Part 2Episode 262, Aimee Phan: A Conversation About The Lost Queen Part 1Episode 263, Aimee Phan: A Conversation About The Lost Queen Part 2SHOW NOTES: https://www.bravenewteaching.com/home/episode264"Send us a message - please include your contact information so we can chat soon!"Get your FREE Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs gateway lesson: shop.bravenewteaching.com/cloudyCheck out Curriculum Rehab here!Support the show📚 BNT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & RESOURCES 👩‍💻 Join Happy Hour! Curriculum Rehab Down with the Reading Quiz Shop the BNT Resource Library Connect with us on Instagram @bravenewteaching Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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