Shows
Faithfully Explore!Sacred Scrolls: Books That Changed the WorldHave you ever wondered how people learned what mattered before schools, before teachers, before the internet?In this episode of Faithfully Explore!, we journey across time and around the world to meet sacred books and scrolls that have guided millions of people for thousands of years. These ancient texts are filled with stories, teachings, and wisdom that are still shaping how people live, love, and treat one another today.Together, we explore:Torah – the teaching scroll of Judaism, lovingly handwritten and carefully read with a special pointerBible – a collection of books filled with stories, poet...
2026-02-0528 min
Faithfully Explore!Kung Fu Panda’s Hidden Wisdom – Inner Peace, Flow, and HarmonyWhat if a silly panda movie was secretly teaching ancient wisdom? In this playful and thoughtful episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura is joined by a very special guest explorer, Brooklyn, to uncover the hidden beliefs woven throughout Kung Fu Panda. Together, they explore how this beloved movie introduces ideas from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in ways kids can understand and feel.Through conversation, movement, laughter, and big questions, explorers learn that wisdom doesn’t always come from books... it can come from stories we already love.🎙️ What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeA spec...
2026-01-2923 min
Faithfully Explore!A Knock in the Night: The Folktale of Lon Po PoLon Po Po: A Knocking Folktale from China Faithfully Explore! with LauraKnock… knock… Did you hear that? That mysterious sound is the very first clue in today’s adventure.In this episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura guides young listeners on a suspenseful journey to China through the traditional folktale Lon Po Po, which means “Grandma Wolf.” Children follow three sisters—Shang, Tao, and Paotze—as they must decide who to trust, notice clues, and use clever thinking to stay safe.This tale may feel familiar to listeners who know Little Re...
2026-01-2221 min
Faithfully Explore!A Day of Stillness: What Zen Teaches UsA Day of Stillness: What Zen Teaches UsFaithfully Explore! with Laura A calm, mindful journey for kids ages 5–12 and their grown-upsEpisode OverviewWhat if an adventure didn’t involve rushing, noise, or doing more — but instead invited us to slow down and be still?In this gentle and grounding episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura guides listeners into the world of Zen, a tradition within Buddhism that teaches mindfulness, compassion, simplicity, and acceptance. Through storytelling, imagination, movement, breathing, and play, kids learn that stillness itself can be a powerf...
2026-01-1526 min
Faithfully Explore!A Fresh Start: Exploring New Year’s ResolutionsA Fresh Start: Exploring New Year’s ResolutionsFaithfully Explore! Podcast | Episode Length: ~15 minutes🎙 Hosted by LauraWhat if the new year wasn’t about being perfect—but about growing, one small promise at a time?In this warm and thoughtful New Year’s episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura invites kids and families to slow down, breathe, and step into 2026 with curiosity, kindness, and purpose. Together, we explore what New Year’s resolutions really are, where they came from, and how people around the world welcome a fresh start.This episode...
2026-01-0715 min
Faithfully Explore!A Fresh Start: Exploring New Year’s ResolutionsA Fresh Start: Exploring New Year’s ResolutionsFaithfully Explore! Podcast | Episode Length: ~15 minutes 🎙 Hosted by LauraWhat if the new year wasn’t about being perfect but about growing, one small promise at a time?In this warm and thoughtful New Year’s episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura invites kids and families to slow down, breathe, and step into 2026 with curiosity, kindness, and purpose. Together, we explore what New Year’s resolutions really are, where they came from, and how people around the world welcome a fresh start.This episod...
2026-01-0715 min
Faithfully Explore!Eight Nights of Light: Hanukkah Traditions TodayA Gentle Note for FamiliesAfter recording this episode on Sunday, December 14, 2025, a deeply sad and frightening event occurred at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Families were gathered for a Hanukkah celebration when two individuals used a gun to harm others. Many people were injured, and lives were lost. Police and emergency responders acted quickly, and the danger was stopped.Leaders and authorities have described this as a terror attack targeting the Jewish community.My heart is with everyone affected, those who were present, those who lost loved ones, and Jewish communities around...
2025-12-1716 min
Faithfully Explore!The Miracle of the Little Light: A Hanukkah AdventureEpisode Length: 11 MinutesTarget Audience: Kids Ages 5-12Topics: Hanukkah, Courage, Mindfulness, Multicultural Traditions🎧 About This EpisodeGrab your Belief Backpacks! In this holiday special, Gemini takes us back 2,000 years to the land of Judea to uncover the story of the Maccabees and the oil that lasted for eight miraculous nights. We’ll learn why Hanukkah is called the Festival of Lights, how being brave is like lighting a candle in the dark, and why donuts are a part of the celebration!🎒 What We ExploreThe Story of Hanukkah...
2025-12-1010 min
Faithfully Explore!The Good Samaritan – A Journey of KindnessWhat We LearnedThe Good Samaritan wasn’t the person anyone expected to be the hero.Being kind sometimes means doing something inconvenient.Helping is brave—even when you feel nervous.Small acts of compassion can change someone’s whole day.A neighbor isn’t just someone who lives next door—it’s anyone who needs help.Story Beats RecapWe land on the dangerous Jericho roadA happy traveler is attacked and left injuredA priest passes byA Levite passes byA Samaritan stopsBandages, lifts, walks, and paysKids complete a Kindness Ninja trainingBelief Backpack reflectionSe...
2025-12-0311 min
Faithfully Explore!The Three Sisters: A Haudenosaunee Tale of Teamwork & GratitudeWelcome back to Camp Faithfully Explore! Today’s campfire story takes us deep into the northeastern woodlands and into an ancient Haudenosaunee garden where Corn, Bean, and Squash learn one of the greatest secrets of all time: we grow best when we grow together.Kids will giggle, move, breathe, pretend, and plant themselves right into this legendary story that Indigenous communities have passed down for generations. This episode is perfect for families, classrooms, car rides, and quiet bedtime snuggles.🏕️ What We Explore in This EpisodeWhat the “Three Sisters” are and why Indigenous gardeners still plant...
2025-11-2610 min
Faithfully Explore!One Love, One Heart: Exploring Rastafarian BeliefsIn this vibrant, music-filled episode of Faithfully Explore!, we journey to Jamaica to discover the colors, rhythms, stories, and heart of Rastafari. Kids and families will learn how this movement began, what Rastafarians believe, why dreadlocks are sacred, what “One Love” really means, and how reggae helped spread a message of peace around the world.From Marcus Garvey’s prophecy to the crowning of Emperor Haile Selassie, from Ital living to joyful drumming gatherings called groundations, this episode weaves together history, storytelling, imagination, movement, and music. Kids ages 5–12 will explore the values of unity, justice, natural living, and resp...
2025-11-1934 min
Faithfully Explore!Under the Bodhi Tree SongUnder the Bodhi Tree: The Story of Buddha for Kids | Faithfully Explore! Song Once upon a time in India, a young prince named Siddhartha left behind gold and gardens to discover the truth of life. Sitting beneath the Bodhi tree, he found peace, courage, and wisdom and became the Buddha.This original Faithfully Explore! song retells his journey in a way kids and families can sing, move, and reflect together. It’s a gentle reminder that peace begins within each of us.Perfect for ages 5–12List...
2025-11-0903 minFaithfully Explore!Run, Run, Run like Fauja Singh!Run, Run, Run like Fauja Singh! | A Song from Faithfully Explore! Meet Fauja Singh, the incredible runner who didn’t start racing until he was 89 years old! His story reminds us that it’s never too late to chase your dreams, keep faith in yourself, and run your own race one joyful step at a time.This song was inspired by one of my very first Faithfully Explore! podcast episodes, “The Turbaned Tornado: Meet Fauja Singh.” Fauja is one of my personal heroes — his courage, humor, and unstoppable spirit touched my heart deeply. ...
2025-11-0902 minFaithfully Explore!Kindness in Bloom SongKindness in Bloom | A Bahá’í-Inspired Kids Song from Faithfully Explore! 🌸What happens when kindness grows like flowers? 🌼Join Laura and the Faithfully Explore! friends for a joyful sing-along inspired by the Bahá’í festival of Riḍván — the Garden of Joy!In this original children’s song, you’ll discover how Bahá’u’lláh’s message of unity and love still blossoms today. Clap, hum, and grow your own garden of kindness as we celebrate that every act of caring helps our world bloom brighter.Lyrics highlight:“Every smile is sunshine, every hand a t...
2025-11-0902 minFaithfully Explore!Story Keepers SongWe Are the Story Keepers | Aboriginal Beliefs Song for Kids | Faithfully Explore!Sing, listen, and learn! Journey into the heart of Australia with “We Are the Story Keepers,” a gentle and rhythmic song inspired by Aboriginal Dreaming stories. This original Faithfully Explore! song celebrates the deep connection between people, land, and story teaching kids that our world is alive with wisdom, memory, and song.What You’ll Hear:Uplifting lyrics about the red earth, stars, and ancient pathwaysThe heartbeat rhythm of storytelling and communityA message of connection, belonging, and respect for Indigenous cultur...
2025-11-0903 min
Faithfully Explore!Persephone’s Journey: A Greek Myth Yoga Story for Kids Episode Length: ~25 minutesRecommended Ages: 5–12 and their familiesFree Printable: Seasons Flow Yoga Poster — available at faithfullyexplore.comEpisode SummaryStep into sunshine, shadow, and the rhythm of the seasons in this myth-inspired yoga story!In Persephone’s Journey: A Greek Myth Yoga Story for Kids, host Laura guides young explorers through the ancient Greek tale of Persephone and Demeter — a mother and daughter whose love brings springtime back to the world.Through immersive storytelling, soundscapes, and a gentle “Seasons Flow” yoga sequence, children will learn how the myth of...
2025-11-0521 min
Faithfully Explore!Faithfully Explore! Discover the world's beliefs, celebrate differences, and grow together.What if your next family adventure could take you across continents and through time?Did you know there are more than 4,000 belief systems in our world and many sharing the same core ideas of kindness, courage, and connection?In this short introduction, host Laura Menousek (former teacher and creator of Faithfully Explore!) invites kids ages 5–12 and their grown-ups to pack their “Belief Backpack” and join a sound-rich journey through stories, cultures, and spiritual wisdom from around the globe.🎧 What You’ll HearThe heart behind Faithfully Explore! and why it was createdHow each episod...
2025-11-0302 min
Faithfully Explore!Campfire of Legends: Spooky and Sacred Creatures from World MythologyGather ‘round the glowing fire with Laura and the Faithfully Explore! crew for a magical Halloween night full of spooky-but-safe stories from around the world. This special episode, Campfire of Legends, introduces children to mythic creatures who guard, teach, and surprise from the Chinese Dragon that dances across the sky to the mysterious Kitsune of Japan.Each legend invites young listeners to be brave and kind, discovering that even spooky tales can hold warmth, wisdom, and protection. Through storytelling, movement, and imagination, kids will explore how cultures across the globe turn mystery into meaning.What’s In...
2025-10-2932 min
Faithfully Explore!Yggdrasil’s Bedtime OdysseyIn this gentle bedtime adventure, Laura guides young explorers into the world of Yggdrasil: the great World Tree from Norse mythology. Through the dream of a curious girl named Runa, listeners journey across realms, meet mythical beings, and discover lessons about calm, courage, and connection.Perfect for winding down, this story blends mythology, guided meditation, and mindful breathing to help kids ages 5–12 feel grounded and peaceful before sleep.What’s Inside This EpisodeMeet Runa and her grandmother: A bedtime story sparks Runa’s dream of climbing the World Tree, where she discovers the beauty...
2025-10-1517 min
Faithfully Explore!What Happens After? A Journey Through Beliefs About the AfterlifeAfter losing her husband, Laura embarks on a heartfelt exploration of what different cultures and religions teach about life after death. She invites children to imagine heavenly gardens, fields of reeds and endless cycles of rebirth, while reflecting on universal themes of love, kindness and hope. Through stories, movement and a calming meditation, listeners learn that diverse beliefs about the afterlife all emphasise living kindly and staying connected to the ones we love.What’s Inside This EpisodeIn this thoughtful episode, Laura asks: What happens when someone we love dies? She di...
2025-10-0127 min
Faithfully Explore!Amaterasu and the Sun SalutationIn this week’s adventure, Laura invites Explorers on a journey to Japan to meet Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess. According to ancient chronicles, Amaterasu is revered as the goddess of the sun and the universe. Legends tell how she once hid herself inside the Heavenly Rock Cave after a quarrel, plunging the world into darkness. The gods devised a joyful plan to coax her out by hanging jewels and a mirror on a sacred sakaki tree and dancing with laughter until curiosity drew her from the cave, restoring light to the world.As we learn this st...
2025-09-2415 min
Faithfully Explore!Ubuntu: I Am Because We AreWhat makes a community feel like one big family? In this episode of Faithfully Explore! we travel to a lively African village marketplace to discover the meaning of Ubuntu. A beautiful philosophy from the Zulu and Xhosa languages that means “I am because we are.”Laura guides children and families through stories, games, and imagination exercises that bring Ubuntu to life. Kids will hear how a group of children chose to share fruit instead of racing against each other, learn how communities in Southern Africa make decisions together under the shade of a tree, and discover how lead...
2025-09-1726 min
Faithfully Explore!Embracing Courage: Warrior Pose and The Legend of Little ScarfaceBravery comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s standing tall, sometimes it’s believing in yourself when no one else does. In this special shorter episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura shares a traditional Mi’kmaq story from Prince Edward Island, The Legend of Little Scarface.Kids and families will not only hear this powerful tale of kindness and courage but will also get moving with three different Warrior Poses from yoga. Together, these poses help us feel strong, steady, and unstoppable... just like Little Scarface.What you’ll discover in this episode:The Mi...
2025-09-1017 minFaithfully Explore!UpdateHi friends. It’s Laura, your guide here at Faithfully Explore!I wanted to share something personal with you. My husband, Dave, recently passed away after a long illness. He was my best friend, my biggest supporter, and a quiet part of every episode we’ve made together.Because of this, Faithfully Explore! will be taking a short two-week pause. I’ll be using this time to rest, be with family, and hold space for all the feelings that come with love and loss.Thank you for your patience and for being part of thi...
2025-08-2700 min
Faithfully Explore!Ten Virtues Treasure Hunt: Jainism’s Das LakshanaPack your imagination and curiosity, today’s adventure takes us to the colorful markets and serene temples of India, where we set out on a treasure hunt for ten sparkling jewels of the heart. These treasures aren’t gold or gems, but the ten supreme virtues celebrated during the Jain festival of Das Lakshana.Jainism is one of the world’s oldest religions, rooted in the powerful idea of ahimsa: non-violence toward every living being. In this episode, Laura guides kids and families through stories, games, and guided imagination to discover how Jains honor life, big and small...
2025-08-2034 min
Faithfully Explore!Fatima the Builder: The Woman Who Built a UniversityWhat would you build if you wanted to leave something that lasted for more than a thousand years? A spaceship? A castle? How about… a university?In this inspiring episode of Faithfully Explore!, we travel back to 9th-century Fez, Morocco, to meet Fatima al-Fihri a Muslim woman whose vision and generosity helped create Al-Qarawiyyin, the world’s oldest continually operating university.Through storytelling, soundscapes, and interactive moments, kids and grown-ups alike will discover:Fatima’s remarkable journey from Tunisia to MoroccoHow her love of learning and deep faith inspired her to build...
2025-08-1336 min
Faithfully Explore!Fire and Light: Teachings of ZoroasterLong ago, in ancient Persia, a boy named Zoroaster saw a world full of fighting and unfairnessand dared to imagine something better. He dreamed of a life guided by truth, kindness, and courage. In this episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura introduces young listeners to Zoroaster and the religion that grew from his ideas: Zoroastrianism.Through storytelling, guided imagination, games, and a true tale about a royal horse and a hard choice, kids will discover what it means to live by the powerful motto "Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds." We explore the role of sacred fire, the...
2025-08-0635 min
Faithfully Explore!How the World Began: Creation Stories Around the GlobeWelcome explorers! Join Laura on Faithfully Explore! as we set off on an extraordinary adventure to uncover how different cultures around the world answer one of life's biggest questions: How did the world begin?What's Inside This Episode:Genesis Creation Story: Discover the story from the Bible, where creation unfolds orderly over six days, concluding with a day of rest. Learn how this story encourages appreciation for nature, rest, and reflection.Hindu Creation Story: Meet Vishnu and Brahma in a magical tale where the universe blooms from a cosmic ocean, a sacred lotus, and the powerful...
2025-07-3033 min
Faithfully Explore!Trail of Belief: The Journey of the Latter-day SaintsPack your curiosity caps and grab your imaginary wagons because this week on Faithfully Explore!, we're journeying west across plains, rivers, and rugged mountains on the Trail of Belief. In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Laura, your trail guide and storyteller, walks us through the incredible history of the Latter-day Saint pioneers, who braved hardship and hope to build a new life of faith in the Salt Lake Valley.With music, storytelling, soundscapes, and imagination, kids and families will explore:The founding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsThe story of Joseph Smith and...
2025-07-2336 min
Faithfully Explore!What Goes Around: Exploring KarmaWhat is karma, really? Is it just about good deeds and bad luck or is there something deeper going on? In this adventure-filled episode of Faithfully Explore!, Laura guides kids and families on a joyful, thoughtful journey into the idea of karma across multiple faiths and cultures.From Hinduism’s cosmic point system to Jainism’s sticky soul stains, Buddhism’s kind intentions to Sikhism’s balance between action and grace, we explore how different worldviews understand the ripple effects of our actions. Along the way, kids stretch their bodies in mindful movement, join in a Karma Chain gu...
2025-07-1639 min
Faithfully Explore!Living Waters: Baptism Across the Christian WorldJoin Laura for a splashy, globe-trotting adventure in “Living Waters: Baptism Across the Christian World.” From Greek origins to Jesus’s own river baptism, we explore how Christians everywhere use water as a symbol of washing away mistakes and starting fresh.In This EpisodeWhat Is Baptism?Discover how the word “baptizo” means “to immerse,” why water symbolizes new life, and how Jesus’s own baptism set the example for nearly 2,000 years of Christian practice.Guided ImaginationTake a “River Walk” in your mind—feel the warm sun, hear the water lap, and imagine stepping into living waters surrounded by f...
2025-06-2533 min
Faithfully Explore!Star Maps: What the Skies Teach Us Around the WorldKia ora, Faithful Explorers! In this sparkling episode, your adventure guide Laura takes you on a magical journey across the night sky, discovering how stars guide, inspire, and connect cultures worldwide. Gather around our imaginary campfire under a blanket of stars, and let's explore together!Episode Highlights:Meet Matariki: Discover how Māori communities in Aotearoa New Zealand celebrate the rising of the Matariki constellation (also known as the Pleiades), marking their New Year with deep reflection, gratitude, and hope.Stars Across Cultures: Learn fascinating star-stories from Japan (Subaru) and ancient Greece (the Seven S...
2025-06-1843 min
Faithfully Explore!Kind Without a Creed: Exploring Humanist ValuesEpisode OverviewIn this week’s adventure, Laura opens the door to a big question: “If someone doesn’t believe in heaven, God, or religious rules, what helps them decide to be a good person?” Join us as we wander through our imaginary library of beliefs, pull down the Humanism shelf, and discover how kindness, curiosity, courage, and fairness can come straight from withinmno creed required. We’ll play Compass Quest, meet inspiring thinkers from Carl Sagan, Jane Goodall, and Hypatia; cozy up for the Stone Soup story; and fill our Belief Backpacks with new treasures of empathy, r...
2025-06-1136 min
Faithfully Explore!Hajj: A Sacred JourneyPack your imagination and join Laura on Faithfully Explore! as we journey to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for Hajj—the sacred pilgrimage that millions of Muslims embark on each year.🌍 In This Episode You’ll Discover:What is Hajj? Learn why Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the significance behind it, and why millions gather from around the globe for this special journey.Exploring Meaningful Rituals: Experience the awe of pilgrims circling the Kaaba, praying at Mount Arafat, camping under desert stars at Muzdalifah, and symbolically stoning evil.Storytime: The Tal...
2025-06-0438 min
Faithfully Explore!Confucius Says: Words Build BridgesWelcome to Ancient China!Join host Laura as we embark on an exciting exploration to meet Confucius, an influential teacher and thinker whose ideas of kindness, respect, and learning have guided generations for over 2,500 years.In this Episode:🗺️ Travel Back in Time: Discover who Confucius was, where he lived, and why his teachings still matter today.🗣️ Learn Mandarin: Say hello (nǐ hǎo), teacher (lǎoshī), thank you (xiè xie), and more!🎓 Big Ideas: Explore filial piety (respect for family), the Golden Rule, and the joy of lifelong learning.🎲 Play Games...
2025-05-2834 min
Faithfully Explore!The Shabbat Table: A Time for Rest and ConnectionIn this warm and joyful episode of Faithfully Explore!, we pull up a chair to the Shabbat table and discover one of Judaism’s most beloved traditions. Laura guides young listeners through the sights, sounds, and flavors of Shabbat—from glowing candles and braided challah to blessings, rest, and togetherness. Families will learn what Shabbat means, why Jewish people celebrate it weekly, and how rest and connection are gifts we can all enjoy.🕍 In This Episode, Kids Will:🕯️ Learn about Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest🍞 Imagine a cozy Shabbat dinner through an interactive sto...
2025-05-2138 min
Faithfully Explore!Listening Hearts: Discovering the Power of PrayerListening Hearts: Discovering the Power of PrayerLength: ~33 minutesAudience: Kids ages 5–12 and their grown-ups🧡 Episode Summary:How do people pray around the world—and what even is prayer? In this sound-rich, heart-centered episode, Laura helps kids explore the many ways people talk, listen, move, and reflect through prayer. From singing and stillness to movement and memory games, children will discover global traditions, reflect on their own experiences, and have a whole lot of fun along the way!Perfect for family listening, classrooms, faith groups, and curious hearts of all kin...
2025-05-1433 min
Faithfully Explore!Under the Bodhi Tree: A Journey into Vesak DayEpisode SummaryIn this peaceful and playful episode of Faithfully Explore!, we celebrate Vesak, the most important Buddhist holiday. Laura guides young listeners through the story of the Buddha, from his life as a curious prince to his moment of enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Kids and families will learn what Buddhists believe, explore Vesak celebrations across the globe, and reflect on kindness, balance, and mindfulness.🧘♀️ In This Episode, Kids Will:🕯️ Hear the story of Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha🌍 Take a sound-filled journey to Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Indonesia to see how Vesak is celebrat...
2025-05-0729 min
Faithfully Explore!The Turbaned Tornado: Meet Fauja SinghIn this inspiring episode of Faithfully Explore, host Laura takes listeners on a journey through the life of Fauja Singh, an incredible hero who proves that no dream has an age limit. Born in 1911 in Punjab, India, Fauja overcame a frail childhood to become a world-renowned marathon runner, even starting his running career at the age of 89. The episode delves into his life achievements, struggles, and the significance of his Sikh faith, explaining why he wears his distinct turban and how his beliefs have guided him. Alongside learning about the Sikh faith, listeners get to understand the values of...
2025-04-3037 min