87. A Conversation with Julia Cook: The Heart of School Counseling, Books, and Teaching Great People Skills

Welcome back to another episode of Counselor Chat! Today, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with the one and only Julia Cook. Julia is a former counselor and celebrated author whose books like My Mouth Is a Volcano and Tattle Tongue are staples on school counseling shelves across the nation. In this episode, Julia shares her journey from writing her first book to creating a collection that’s been translated into nine languages and used in schools worldwide.We explore:Julia’s creative process and her shift from SEL to teaching "Great People Skills (GPS)."How her books evolve with student needs, ensuring inclusivity and relevance.Practical, hands-on strategies for engaging students and teaching essential life skills.The launch of Julia’s new platform, Cookie Bites, offering videos, activities, and resources for counselors and educators.Julia’s new book, I Am Vape, addressing vaping prevention for younger students.This episode is packed with actionable tips, inspiration, and a giveaway you won’t want to miss!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Evolution of Julia’s Books: How feedback from counselors helps her refine her stories to fit the needs of today’s students.Concrete Teaching Strategies: Learn how visuals and metaphors, like root beer floats and racetracks, help kids grasp challenging concepts like test anxiety and self-regulation.The Power of Adaptation: Why it’s essential for educators and resources to grow alongside the ever-changing needs of students.Practical Tools with Cookie Bites: Discover a treasure trove of resources, from grab-and-go activities to videos, designed to make your counseling life easier.Giveaway Details:Want to win a signed copy of Julia’s new book I Am Vape? Here’s how:Forward this episode to five colleagues and CC Carol ([email protected]).The first five listeners to send their emails will win!Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Cookie Bites by Julia Cook: Cookie Bites WebsiteCounseling Essentials Resources: Counseling EssentialsJulia’s New Book, I Am Vape: Learn more about vaping prevention for young students.School Visits and Workshops with Julia Cook: Email Julia at [email protected] Connected:Follow Carol on Instagram and Facebook: @CounselingEssentialsVisit the Counselor Chat podcast page: Counseling Essentials PodcastFinal Thoughts:Julia reminds us of the importance of laughter, adaptability, and connection in school counseling. Whether it’s a poopy day or a cookie day, stay focused on the impact you make in students’ lives. You’re doing amazing work, counselor rock stars!Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Until next time, keep spreading joy and making a difference!Grab the Show Notes: Counselingessentials.org/podcastJoin Perks Counseling Club Membership and get the lessons, small group and individual counseling materials you need. Join now and get your first month free when you sign up for 3 months!Connect with Carol:TpT StoreCounseling Essentials WebsiteInstagramFacebookElementary School Counselor Exchange Facebook GroupCaught In The Middle School Counselors Facebook GroupHigh School Counselor Connection Facebook GroupMentioned in this episode:Perks Membership