324. The Practice of Active Wondering

What happens when we slow down long enough to really wonder? In this episode, we explore the difference between rabbit trails and rabbit holes—and why both matter in learning and in life. From telephone poles and faded signs to classic children’s literature and everyday neighborhood mysteries, we reflect on how curiosity deepens when we resist quick answers and allow questions to linger. We talk about active wondering, mental stillness, and the surprising richness of slow learning in a fast world. Join us as we rediscover how noticing, wondering, and waiting can transform ordinary moments into meaningful education.

Resources:

1. Listen to our episode on Rabbit Holes and Rabbit Trails
2. Find John Stilgoe’s Outside Lies Magic in the Brave Writer Book Shop
3. Brave Writer class registration is open!
4. Visit Julie’s Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!)
5. Purchase Julie’s new book, Help! My Kid Hates Writing
6. Find community at the Brave Learner Home
7. Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programs
8. Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that’s sure to grab and keep your child’s attention
9. Subscribe to Julie’s Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa’s Catalog of Enthusiasms
10. Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!
11. Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684
12. Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.com

Connect with Julie:

1. Instagram: @juliebravewriter
2. Threads: @juliebravewriter
3. Bluesky: @bravewriter.com
4. Facebook: facebook.com/bravewriter

Connect with Melissa:

1. Website: melissawiley.com
2. Substack: melissawiley.substack.com
3. Instagram: @melissawileybooks
4. Bluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.social

Produced by NOVA