Before cloud economics entered his life, Corey’s first true love was a good book. On this episode of Screaming in the Cloud, he’s joined by Laura Brief, the CEO of nonprofit 826 National. The organization is the largest youth writing network in the country, something that’s near and dear to our hearts at The Duckbill Group. Corey and Laura talk about why having a deep appreciation for reading and writing is vital no matter what career path you take. From offering a creative escape for kids to moonlighting as a “pirate supply company,” 826 National helps children realize that there’s an author inside all of us. So check out this great conversation, and be sure to buy one of our shirts while you’re at it!

(0:00) Introduction

(1:02) Gitpod sponsor read

(2:14) The Duckbill Group's history working with 826 National

(3:01) What is 826 National?

(4:43) Corey's love of reading, writing, and how it correlates with 826 National's mission

(10:11) The rise of ChatGPT and its impact on reading and writing

(13:49) Why GenAI fails to capture the feeling of writing

(22:30) Why writing education is important

(24:54) The benefits of reading and writing for kids

(31:39) 826 Valencia: the Pirate Supply Company

(35:24) Buy a shirt benefiting 826 National!

(37:15) Where you can find more from Laura Brief and 826 National

Laura Brief is the CEO of 826 National. Prior to joining the nonprofit, Laura held leadership positions at high achieving youth organizations including Build, First Graduate, Juma Ventures, and The Posse Foundation, where she developed the organization’s first national career, corporate engagement, and alumni programs. She holds a Master’s in Education and a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University, and is the Chair of the Board of Directors at Youth Speaks.

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