From Orange Is the New Black to Writing Kids' Books: Curiosity Matters | Tanya Wright | Brain Talk

What helps kids stay engaged in learning—and why do some lose focus?In this episode of the MindBodySpace Podcast, Dr. Juna Bobby speaks with Tanya Wright—author and actress known for her role on the hit Netflix series Orange Is the New Black—about how curiosity, imagination, and engagement shape the way children learn.Tanya shares how her journey from acting to education led her to create Hairiette of Harlem, a character designed to captivate attention and help kids stay engaged—especially during a time when many children felt disconnected from learning.🧠 Brain Talk™️:Everyone learns best when their brain is engaged.From a BrainTalk™️ perspective, curiosity helps keep the brain open, attentive, and ready to learn.When kids are curious, their brain stays engaged.When curiosity is missing, learning can feel overwhelming or difficult.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN✔️ How curiosity and engagement help kids stay focused on learning✔️ How imagination supports attention and motivation✔️ Why kids need engagement—not just instruction✔️ How Tanya transitioned from acting to education✔️ Why unconventional paths can be a strengthRELAX TO SOAR™️ method:In RELAX TO SOAR™️, the “A” stands for Adaptability.Curiosity supports adaptability by helping kids stay open, engaged, and willing to learn.BrainTalk™️ tool (for Parents)Try this tonight:👉 “What made your brain curious today?”👉 “What part of this feels interesting to your brain?”The Brain Bun plush doll, books and videos help kids learn BrainTalk™️ in a simple and engaging way, so they can build the skills and habits to manage stress and prevent overwhelm.RELAX TO SOAR™️ method & planner helps teens and adults reduce stress, overcome procrastination, and build the mental and physical resilience needed to reach their highest potential.👉 Find out more: mindbodyspace.com/shopSubscribe for more BrainTalk™️ tools to help your family go from stress to focus.0:00 Intro0:44 Meet Tanya Wright - Creator of Hairiette of Harlem Actress from Netflix "Orange is the New Black"2:08 What is Hairiette of Harlem?2:38 Hairiette - A 7-Year-Old with Galactic Hair2:49 How the Idea for Hairiette Was Born10:42 Why Kids Need to Read by 3rd Grade11:22 What's Next for Hairiette16:05 Going Back to School as an Older Student18:38 How a Literacy Class Changed Everything19:55 Where to Find Tanya20:40 Outro