Indigenous Wisdom Conversations: Writing as Liberation with JR Rice

In this episode, Juliana — apprentice to Julia and guest host — sits down with JR Rice, a Black man, writer, teacher, event host & curator, and spoken word artist, born and raised in Oakland, California.  JR works with students navigating homelessness, immigration pressure, incarceration, and trauma — and he meets them there through the radical act of storytelling.This conversation moves through what it means to teach identity through writing, why vulnerability has to come from the teacher first, and how story has always been the way humans pass down what matters. JR also speaks honestly about his own path — being fired for trying to unionize, living with bipolar disorder, a serious heart procedure that changed how he moves through life — and what he's learned about legacy, self-care, and not giving up.Links & ResourcesJR's debut novel Broken Pencils — available on Amazon and at local bookstoresUpcoming poetry collection I Was, Am, and Will Be — out June 2025JR's website: jrrice.comJR on Instagram & TikTokLearn more about The School Without Walls:Get your free guide: 10 Questions to Ask Your Soul SelfEnroll in The Magical Papers Schedule a free Cafecito y Chisme Call with JuliaLearn more about Master Alma Class (MAC) sessionsConnect with us on Instagram and FacebookProduction assistance from Podlad.com and Daypack Digital. Artwork by Olivia Dancel. Dragonfly art by Soul Creative Design.