Financial Literacy & Self-Confidence in Kids: A Conversation with Children's Author Rella B on Writing, AI, and Creative Passion
Introduction
Today's episode of Blu Alchemist Podcast revolves around an intriguing conversation with Rella B, a dynamic individual who has dedicated her creative talents to writing children's books with a focus on financial literacy and self-confidence. Through her discussion with host Siquoyia Blue, they uncovered the motivations behind her unique literary approach, the challenges she faced, and the innovative methods she uses to bring her stories to life. This episode will delve into the highlights of their conversation and explore Rella B's journey from a corporate job to an unconventional authoring path. It will also touch on the importance of financial literacy for children and the role of AI in modern creativity.
The Journey to Writing Children's Books
From Corporate Life to Creative Freedom
Rella B's transition from a conventional corporate job to the world of children's literature was not an overnight decision. After seven years of writing children's books, she faced a significant setback when she lost all her early drafts. However, this loss did not deter her. Instead, it sparked a resolve to rewrite her stories with even more passion and determination.
Reflecting on her own experiences with financial education, or rather the lack of it, Rella realized a gap in children's literature. While children are taught geometry and other academic subjects, crucial life skills like understanding taxes, budgeting, and financial management were missing. This realization became the cornerstone of her mission to write books that equip young readers with these essential skills.
The Inspiration Behind "Mama, I Got a Dollar!"
One of Rella B's notable books, Mama, I Got a Dollar!, was inspired by her daughter's fascination with money. The book's premise is simple yet foundational, teaching children the various possibilities of what they can do with their money—save it, spend it, or a combination of both. It also introduces concepts like debt and interest in a way that's easy for young minds to grasp, aiming to instill financial literacy from an early age.
The Importance of Early Financial Literacy
Addressing the Educational Gap
Financial literacy is crucial because it impacts daily decisions and long-term financial health. However, the traditional education system often overlooks this vital skill set. Rella B's books strive to fill this gap by making financial concepts accessible to young children. Her approach underscores the importance of learning how to budget, save, and spend wisely, preparing children for financial responsibilities in their future.
The Role of Parents and Educators
Parents and educators play a pivotal role in imparting financial literacy. Rella B's simple and engaging narratives serve as conversation starters for families. By discussing these topics at home, parents can reinforce the lessons taught in the books, embedding prudent financial habits in their children's everyday lives.
Creativity and Self-Confidence in Children's Literature
"Don't Dim My Light"
Rella B's passion for writing extends beyond financial literacy. One of her favorite yet-to-be-released books, Don't Dim My Light, focuses on a young girl's journey to self-confidence and assertiveness. This narrative resonates deeply with the need for children, especially those of color, to see themselves represented in literature and to learn to stand up for themselves in various situations.
Lessons on Gratitude and Diversity
Another favorite is If Shapes Could Talk, which teaches children about shapes and colors while also delving into themes of gratitude and diversity. By depicting various types of families and their differing circumstances, the book subtly imparts the lesson that material comparison can be detrimental to one's happiness. This narrative is particularly important in a world where social media often fosters a culture of comparison among children.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Technology
The Struggle with Technology
Rella B's journey wasn't without technical challenges. Her initial website development efforts were fraught with dissatisfaction until she found a way to achieve the desired look and functionality. This persistence underscores the often-overlooked behind-the-scenes efforts involved in creative endeavors.
Leveraging AI for Creativity
Incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into her creative process has been a game-changer. Rella B uses AI tools like MidJourney and ChatGPT to conceptualize scenes and distribute content efficiently. By creating references for illustrators and automating social media posts, she can focus more on the creative process itself. This balance of traditional creativity and modern technology exemplifies how AI can support and enhance artistic efforts without overshadowing the human element.
Balancing Creativity and Motherhood
Tips for Single Moms
As a single mom, Rella B has had to find innovative ways to balance her creative pursuits with her responsibilities. Her advice to other single mothers aspiring to follow their passion is practical and grounded: budget wisely, set clear goals, and carve out dedicated time for creative work. Even setting aside 30 minutes a day can lead to significant progress.
The Power of Goal-Setting
Setting financial and personal goals is paramount. For example, Rella B aimed to have her bills paid a year in advance to ensure financial stability. Such disciplined planning not only alleviates stress but also empowers single parents to invest time and resources into their passions.
Navigating the Creative Process
Finding Inspiration and Making Time
Rella B's creative process involves drawing inspiration from interactions and experiences. Initially, as a flight attendant with ample downtime, she would jot down ideas and short stories. Now, as a full-time creator, she schedules specific times for her creative work, illustrating the importance of intentional planning and commitment.
Exploring Different Mediums
A creative mind often dabbles in various forms of art. Rella B has explored pottery and finds such activities enriching. Engaging in different creative practices can stimulate the mind and provide fresh perspectives, which can be beneficial for writing and other primary creative outlets.
Embracing AI and Future Endeavors
AI and SEO
Rella B is enthusiastic about exploring new AI tools to enhance her work further. She mentions Perplexity, an AI tool praised for its SEO capabilities and the ability to cite references, as a potential game-changer. This interest highlights the evolving nature of creativity in the digital age and the importance of staying updated with technological advancements.
Marketing Strategies
In terms of marketing, Rella B recognizes the power of platforms like TikTok. While creating focused content can be challenging, she understands its potential to reach wider audiences. Moreover, she has successfully used AI tools to assist with marketing strategies, such as Google Ads, underscoring the utility of AI in simplifying complex tasks and boosting outreach.
Reflections and Life Lessons
The Value of Independence
Being comfortable with oneself and enjoying solitary activities is a valuable skill. Rella B shares an anecdote about attending events alone and the confidence it fostered. This sense of independence is empowering and underscores the importance of self-reliance.
Embracing Mistakes
Rella B's guiding philosophy is captured in her tattoo: "Mistakes were made and lessons were learned." This embrace of imperfection and the commitment to learning from mistakes resonate with many creatives and entrepreneurs. It's a reminder that setbacks are opportunities for growth and that persistence is key to success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rella B's journey from corporate stability to creative self-fulfillment is inspiring. Her dedication to writing children's books that teach financial literacy and self-confidence is paving the way for essential conversations within families. By leveraging technology and maintaining a disciplined approach to her craft, she exemplifies how modern creatives can thrive. For single parents, aspiring authors, or anyone interested in blending creativity with technology, Rella B's story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and the importance of lifelong learning. Her experiences remind us that with passion and persistence, we can turn our dreams into reality.
