The Power of Critical Thinking: Barbara Mojica on Education, History, and Authorship

One on One with Mista Yu

Determination and curiosity can transform a life. Just ask Barbara Mojica, who grew up in a modest New York City apartment to become the first college graduate in her family, an accomplished educator, historian, and author of children's books that inspire critical thinking through historical exploration.
Throughout our conversation, Barbara transports us to the breathtaking Hudson Valley where she now lives, painting vivid pictures of a region steeped in American history. From the spot where Henry Hudson first met native children (giving Kinderhook its name) to Martin Van Buren's residence and buildings bearing plaques of their original purposes, this living historical landscape provides the perfect backdrop for her writing. For anyone fascinated by American heritage, Barbara's insider perspective on this Dutch settlement founded in 1665 is worth the listen alone.
What truly distinguishes this episode is Barbara's passionate defense of historical literacy and critical thinking in an age of instant information. She articulates how modern education's focus on standardized testing has compromised students' ability to discern fact from opinion—a skill traditionally developed through historical inquiry. Drawing from her transition from general education to special education, Barbara offers thought-provoking insights about how different learning styles require flexible teaching approaches, something increasingly restricted in public education. Her motto, "If you don't know your history, you don't know what you're talking about," encapsulates her mission to equip children with tools to uncover truth beyond the algorithm-driven answers they typically accept without question.
Have you considered whether your child's education develops true critical thinking? Subscribe now to hear Barbara's recommendations for alternative educational approaches that might better serve your family, and discover how her "Little Miss History" book series is teaching children to explore forgotten historical facts while forming their own solutions to complex problems.

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Chapters

1. The Power of Critical Thinking: Barbara Mojica on Education, History, and Authorship (00:00:00)

2. Meet Barbara Mojica (00:00:57)

3. Life in Historic Hudson Valley (00:04:47)

4. Building a Supportive Author Community (00:15:19)

5. Why History Matters (00:24:31)

6. Education System Challenges (00:33:19)

7. Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:39:30)