Rediscovering The Wisdom Palace with Meredy Benson Rice — Stories, Schooling & the Heart of Learning

In this special re-release, we’re thrilled to bring back our 2021 conversation with Meredy Benson Rice, a life-long educator, school leader, and celebrated author whose work invites us to rethink what it means to grow, learn, and find wisdom along the way. Meredy is the author of The Wisdom Palace: A Young Girl’s Journey, a tender, funny, and deeply reflective coming-of-age novel about Isabelle — a shy girl sent to spend the summer with her grandfather, only to discover that friendship, community, and unexpected adventure can open doors to self-discovery she never knew existed. It’s a story about breaking out of shells, bridging generations, and finding wisdom in the most surprising places. Beyond The Wisdom Palace, Meredy’s work as an educator and administrator has shaped countless young minds. As former Head of Oak Grove School in Ojai, California — a school grounded in inquiry, curiosity, and the principles of holistic education — she has spent decades asking big questions about how we teach, how we learn, and how education can foster not just intellect, but insight. In our conversation, Meredy shares:how her life in Canada, England, and Southern California influenced her writing and teaching; the inspiration behind The Wisdom Palace and its lessons for readers of all ages; what it really means to educate the whole child — not just the mind, but the heart and spirit; and why stories — both inside and outside the classroom — can shape our understanding of ourselves and each other. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, a lover of literature, or simply someone who believes in the transformative power of curiosity, this conversation will leave you with fresh insights and renewed wonder.Tune in as we revisit this uplifting talk with Meredy Benson Rice — a conversation about wisdom, storytelling, and the unexpected paths that help us grow. 🎧