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In this episode of Old Soul, Matthew Millstein sits down with Rowana Miller, founder and executive director of Cosmic Writers, to explore how creative writing can transform literacy, learning, and young lives.
Born during the early days of the pandemic and propelled by a wildly successful virtual camp, Cosmic Writers has grown into a nationwide movement giving kids the agency to tell their own stories—and build critical skills along the way.
Rowana shares how storytelling became her personal anchor, how Dungeons & Dragons campaigns can unlock a student’s voice, and why AI makes human creativity more valuable than ever. With humor, depth, and conviction, she makes the case for writing that’s not just about standards—but about self-expression, community, and joy.
What We Cover in This Episode:
- What is Cosmic Writers?
A nonprofit that brings creative writing workshops and mentorship to students (grades 3–8) both online and in person, while also training educators to make writing joyful and purposeful. - AI in the Classroom—Friend or Foe?
Why ChatGPT makes creative writing more important, not less—and how it sharpens the skills machines can’t replicate: originality, empathy, and voice. - Writing as Empowerment:
How creative writing offers one of the only spaces where kids have full agency—and why that matters. - Rowana’s Origin Story:
From drafting novels in middle school to publishing her debut in 2024, Rowana opens up about the generational storytelling influences that led her to found Cosmic Writers. - The Dungeons & Dragons Effect:
What happens when kids realize their role-playing campaigns count as writing—and how that unlocks creativity and confidence. - From Pandemic Project to Movement:
How a $3,000 grant and one viral virtual camp signaled a huge, unmet need—and launched a national platform for young writers. - Why Writing Should Be as Fun as Robotics:
Rowana’s bold vision to rebrand writing education as something joyful, not just functional.
Key Moments
11:08 "WordCamp: Transformative Creative Writing Education"
Connect with Rowana Miiller
Website: https://www.cosmicwriters.org/
If you’re an educator, parent, librarian, or just someone who believes in the power of young voices, this episode is for you. It’s not just about writing—it’s about reimagining what it means to communicate, connect, and create.
Creators and Guests
What is Old Soul?
Old Soul is a restorative and relatable podcast that dives into the heart of entrepreneurship through the eyes of its youngest champions. Hosted by three passionate business owners in their early to mid-twenties, this podcast peels back the layers of what it means to be a young entrepreneur in today's world. Each episode is a journey into the personal narratives of guests who have ventured into business at an early age, often labeled as Old Souls for their precocious achievements. The show explores a variety of compelling topics, from the unique challenges and innovative strategies employed by young business owners to the delicate balance of personal and professional growth.
Listeners are treated to honest discussions about the impact of age and experience in traditionally older-dominated sectors, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights. The podcast also delves into the transformative role of mentorship and networking, highlighting how guidance from seasoned professionals can shape a young entrepreneur's journey. Moreover, Old Soul is forward-looking, engaging in thought-provoking conversations about the future of entrepreneurship, the importance of social responsibility, and ethical business practices.
This isn't just a podcast; it's a platform where the vibrancy of youth meets the wisdom of experience, creating a rich tapestry of stories that inspire, educate, and resonate with anyone interested in the art of business and personal development.
Old Soul is co-hosted by Matthew Millstein (Old Soul), Aaryan Patel (Air Fried Media), and Walker LeVan (Air Fried Media).
About Old Soul: https://aoldsoul.com/
About Air Fried Media: https://airfriedmedia.com/