What’s the difference between a teacher who changes your life… and one who almost shuts you down for good? On this week’s episode of The Spark File Podcast, Susan brings a spark from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn — a story about a young writer learning the difference between truth and storytelling, and the teachers who shape (or try to silence) her voice. From a compassionate mentor who helps Francie harness her imagination, to a misguided teacher who literally tells her to burn her work, this episode explores the lasting impact of creative guidance — both good and bad. Along the way, Susan and Laura swap their own stories of teachers who saw their potential… and those who didn’t. The result? A powerful reminder that you get to choose whose voice lives in your head — and who gets a firm “die, vampire, die.” If you’ve ever been encouraged, underestimated, or creatively crushed (and who hasn’t?), this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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