Tuesday, February 16, 2021

Chatting with Amy Morin, author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do

It’s been way too long since I’ve written in this space, but I have kept up with my daily writing practice, and even published an article on mental well-being with a couple of incredible colleagues. I’ve also been using social media to post life updates for a smaller audience of friends. I’ve been reading, journaling, teaching, running, parenting, and living life joyfully. Meanwhile, blogging has remained an interest and desire in the back of my mind, so I thought I’d take some time on this snowy evening to provide readers here with an update. 


Back when I was reading a book a week, I read 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do by Amy Morin.  I had previously read her list of 13 Things when it went viral as an article, so I excitedly added the full book to my 2015 reading list. Little did I know 2016 would be one of the most challenging years of my life. Fortunately, Morin’s book in 2015 prepped me for what was to come in 2016 and thereafter. 

Fast forward a few years to 2019 when I DM’d Amy Morin on Twitter to ask if she might write book for teachers about how we can build mental strength as educators. She graciously replied and thanked me for keeping the idea on her radar but was in the middle of a different project for kids.  The book for kids is slated to be released this April, and I encourage you to read it and share it with any children in your lives. I read an advanced preview copy.  More on that in a coming post. 

In 2020-2021 I joined colleagues with Brave Teaching Kentucky, and we started a podcast called Teacher Check-In.  I DM’d Amy Morin again and asked if she would consider being a guest on our podcast. She said yes, and I had the distinct honor to chat with her earlier this week. 

Our conversation is targeted at educators, but anyone could benefit from listening if you’re interested in mental strength. Check it out here.