Shows
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsFinding the Right Ride: Perseverance, Empathy, and LeadershipIIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift. Meet an ostrich who doesn't quite fit the mold and is trying to find his way back—only to discover that finding the right ride isn't easy. The ostrich is well aware of any accommodations he may need to get home safely. In fact, despite the setbacks he faces, the ostrich keeps going and young readers see perseverance in action. Celia also shares the thoughtful layer of the story involving a bo...
2026-02-0418 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsFrom the Field to the Stage: Mason Shows What's PossibleIn our first 2026 episode, Mason shares how his love for acting, football, and basketball keeps him energized and motivated every day. He opens up about why treating others the way you want to be treated is the foundation of real leadership, and how staying active helps him stay confident. When life feels busy or overwhelming, Mason turns to deep breaths and drawing to calm his mind before jumping back into the activities he loves. His message to other kids is simple but powerful: anything you do can inspire someone else — so keep showing the world what's possible. Listen to Ma...
2026-01-0712 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsWhen Art Meets Heart: Allie's StoryMeet Allie, a third grader whose love for dance, modeling, and the arts shines as bright as her smile! Whether she's learning new dance moves with friends or helping others master theirs, Allie's enthusiasm and kindness make her a true Lil' Leader. She embraces every challenge in her dance classes and believes in following big dreams—like one day becoming a doctor. Tune in to hear how Allie's creativity, confidence, and caring heart inspire everyone around her to keep learning and growing. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Most Marshmallows Author & Illu...
2025-12-0313 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsWe Either Win or Learn: Myra on the Spark of FailureIn this inspiring follow-up episode, Myra returns to the Lil' Leaders Podcast to share her powerful essay on failure in honor of National Failure Day. You might remember Myra from her first visit, when she told us how she created her nonprofit, Sparklez.org, to help raise money for a girls' school in India and reminded us that we're never too young to make a difference. This time, Myra opens up about how failure isn't the opposite of success—it's part of it. She shares how losing at nationals for her health app invention and in dance co...
2025-11-1919 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsArt, Activism, and Inspiration with KelcieIn this heartwarming episode, meet Kelcie—a young leader who brings creativity, kindness, and action together in amazing ways. Kelcie has written children's books inspired by her own life, even illustrating one using the digital art program Procreate. Her passion for helping others led her to fundraise for koalas after the devastating fires in Australia, and her role model is none other than Dr. Opal Lee, the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," whom she was honored to meet in person. Tune in as Kelcie shares how she uses her voice, her art, and her heart to make a difference. He...
2025-11-0510 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsNavigating the New School Year with Michelle BlaisThe new school year is exciting—but it also brings big changes, new routines, and sometimes worries for kids (and parents!). In this episode, Michelle Blais from @misschellemindset joins Tina to chat about how to help kids settle into their "new normal." From checking in often and practicing calming techniques like hot chocolate and candle breathing, to celebrating mistakes as part of learning, this conversation is full of practical tips and real-life stories. Michelle and Tina even share some of their biggest teacher mistakes and what they learned along the way! Tune in for this fun and he...
2025-10-0143 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsCai & Waylon: A Gotcha Day To RememberWelcome to Season 3's first episode! Meet Cai, a boy with a big heart and an even bigger dream—a dog of his very own! Join us as he shares the magical day he visited his local shelter with his mom and met Waylon, the pup who stole his heart. Cai talks about how he knew Waylon was "the one," the fun of playing and training together, and why he chose to celebrate Waylon's Gotcha Day in style with a special suit! He also shares why adopting from shelters is an amazing way to find your forever friend.
2025-09-0307 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsMyra's Mission: Big Heart, Bright VisionMeet Myra, a fifth-grade entrepreneur who proves you're never too young to make a difference. After watching videos from her mom's trip to India helping a school for visually impaired girls, Myra felt inspired to take action. She founded her own nonprofit—Sparklez.org—to provide eyewear and vision care for girls in need. But she didn't stop there! Myra rallied other young entrepreneurs and organized a children's business fair, where kids could share their creative work and support her cause as well as theirs. In this inspiring episode, Myra shares her journey, the power of starting now, and why...
2025-06-0411 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsPueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That MatterIn this special episode, 6th graders at Pueblo Middle School team up to share the power habits they've been practicing to become confident, successful students and strong role models. From being proactive and solving problems to finding their voice and taking care of themselves, each group dives into one habit and explains how it helps them handle everyday challenges. This episode is designed to inspire younger kids with simple, real-life examples of how these habits can make middle school less stressful—and more awesome. Whether you're just starting out or already navigating the halls, these Pueblo Power Habits will he...
2025-05-2317 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsVeera's Return: A Voice For New StudentsVeera is back! Our first returning guest shares how her school year is wrapping up and what she's learned along the way. She talks about her role in the Envoy Program, where just two students per class help new kids feel welcome. From tips on making friends to handling hard days, Veera shows us how leadership starts with kindness and a listening ear. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Girl with Big, Big Questions Author: Britney Winn Lee Illustrator: Jacob Souva From the bestselling Big, Big series comes a book that celebrate...
2025-05-2109 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsKidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way Meet this week's lil' leader, Durvin! At just 15 years old, he is already a seasoned editor and the founder of Kidlio Magazine, a creative project he started at age 10 to share his love of graphic design and storytelling. In this inspiring conversation, Dhurvin shares how his passion turned into a thriving magazine during the pandemic, how he balances school and publishing with the help of his mother, and his big plans for the magazine's future. He opens up about the importance of learning something new every day, how hobbies can lead you to discover your strengths, and why...
2025-05-0717 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsGrowth Mindset Matters with Michelle BlaisWhat if every time your child said "I can't," they followed it with "...yet"? This week on Lil' Leaders, we're shining the spotlight on Michele Blais—our Big Leader Feature! Michele is not only an inspiring educator, but a powerful advocate for helping kids grow through what they go through. With her deep belief in the power of a growth mindset, Michele has made it her mission to teach kids (and their grownups!) that FAIL isn't the end—it's just your First Attempt In Learning. From managing big emotions to trying again after a setback, she shares simp...
2025-04-1628 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsClick With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop CyberbullyingAshley, a high school junior, was excited to get her first cell phone, but she soon discovered that life online isn't always as great as it seems. Social media opened her eyes to both its benefits and the harsh reality of cyberbullying. Determined to make a difference, she wrote Sasha Goes to Cyberspace, a children's book on digital kindness, and founded Click With Kindness. Tune in as Ashley shares her journey, the lessons she's learned, and how every book purchase on AshleyBParker.com supports the Cybersmile Foundation in the fight against cyberbullying. Picture Book Recommendations:
2025-04-0212 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsTeaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership JourneyLet's welcome Dhanvi today, a creative and compassionate 4th grader. She shines as a role model in her school and community. Whether she's playing soccer, painting, singing, or helping others, she puts her heart into everything she does. Inspired by her love for helping people, she dreams of becoming a doctor one day. In this episode, Dhanvi shares a powerful lesson from art class—teaching is most effective when others can actively participate. She also opens up about staying true to herself by leaning on the people she loves and trusts when life gets busy. En...
2025-03-1911 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Magic of Storytime with Rella B. BooksToday, we're introducing something exciting—Rella B Books! It all started with a mom's love for her daughter and a dream to create fun, educational content that makes learning feel like an adventure. What began as a way to share stories at home has grown into something even bigger—a visual storytime on YouTube and an audio storytime podcast where authors bring their stories to life! At Rella B Books, kids and families get a little brain break—a chance to move around, hear a riddle, enjoy a fun story, and think about what they've learned. And at the...
2025-03-0509 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsYou Are Enough: A Fantastically Me Author & Lil' Readers' ChatThis inspiring episode consisted of 2 continents: the United States and Australia, and 2 groups: the authors and readers! We sit down with authors Sharmilla and Sharminey of Books for Growing Minds (@bfgminds) to talk about their empowering book, Fantastically Me. The story follows a talented main character and a group of friends competing in a talent show—only to start doubting themselves. But what do they learn? That they are enough, just as they are! Alongside Sharmilla and Sharminey, several young readers share what this story taught them about confidence, self-worth, and how to handle self-doubt in...
2025-02-1920 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsEnza's Story: Leading With Voice & KindnessMeet today's lil' leader, Enza, a thoughtful and respectful classmate who inspires others by leading with kindness. In this episode, Enza shares a powerful story about standing up for a friend who made an honest mistake and how she wished she had spoken up even sooner. She reflects on the importance of supporting others and embracing courage. Enza also opens up about her admiration for her cousin, who lives life to the fullest and always gives her best effort. Tune in to discover how Enza's actions make her a remarkable role model for her peers. ...
2025-02-0510 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsLittle Justice Leaders: Sparking Big Conversations For ChangeThis week, we're sitting down with the incredibly dedicated Shelby, the creator of Little Justice Leaders, to talk about how they're creating the next generation of changemakers! From schools to living rooms, Shelby and her team are making social justice education accessible and engaging for kids and adults alike. Whether it's helping parents tackle tough topics or giving teachers the tools to foster meaningful conversations, their work is transforming communities one lesson at a time. Shelby shares the "why" behind Little Justice Leaders, the impact they're making, and how small conversations can spark big change.
2025-01-1512 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsBalance & Joy: Olivia Genesis Leads Her WayWelcome Olivia Genesis to today's episode! She's a Lil' Leader who's always on the move—kicking it in karate, shining as a model, singing her heart out, writing a book for kids, and helping others with kindness. But Olivia's true superpower? Knowing when to say, "This isn't the right fit," so she can keep discovering what she loves most. With so much on her plate, Olivia strives to master the art of balancing her time, making sure there's always room for quiet moments like crocheting to unwind. She reminds us all that balance is the ke...
2025-01-0110 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsVindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being YouIn today's episode, we meet a talented and inspiring young guest named Vindhy! She loves Bollywood dancing, gymnastics, and singing. With a big dream of becoming a singer someday, she shares how being recognized as Student of the Month taught her the value of listening and learning from others. She also loves reading and believes being true to yourself means knowing how to say no to things that don't feel right for you. Get ready to hear her story, her advice, and how she's already shining bright while staying true to herself! Picture Book Recommendations:
2024-12-1811 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsPaige's Journey: The Power of TryingHave you ever tried something new and realized it wasn't for you? Today's guest, Paige, has been exploring her passions since she was just 3 years old! Whether it's dancing, acting, or modeling, Paige keeps trying new things—even when they don't always work out—because each step brings her closer to what she truly loves. Each step also gives to the confidence to try the next interest. We can't wait for you to enjoy our conversation! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Hooray For You Author & Illustrator: Marianne Richmond Hooray for You! i...
2024-12-0410 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsParenting & Podcasting: Andi Smiley's Guide to Kid-Approved ListeningToday, we're so excited to welcome Andi Smiley to our Big Leader Feature! Andi is the creator of the Family Podcast Guide, a wonderful resource that helps parents find fun, educational podcasts for the whole family. She's here to share how her guide makes screen-free fun easier and helps families laugh, learn, and connect. Andi's work doesn't stop there—she's also building a supportive podcasting community where parents can share ideas, network, and even start their own podcasts! Join us as Andi gives us a peek behind the curtain of the Family Podcast Guide and ins...
2024-11-2017 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsIt Matters To Me: Harriet's Heart For Giving & InclusionWelcome to today's episode! Today on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, meet Harriet! She's a young girl with a huge heart, on a mission to make sure everyone feels included and loved. Through her charity work, Harriet proves that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a better place. Be inspired by her understanding of how important it is to life others up. Let's get started! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Don't Be Afraid To Drop Author: Julia Cook Illustrator: Anna Laura...
2024-11-0612 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsUnlocking Reading Success: The Power of EyewordsWelcome to today's episode! I'm excited to introduce our guest, Jen Orr, the creator of Eyewords Learning. Jen developed a unique way to help kids learn to read by using the science of how our brains work best. Her program, Eyewords, combines seeing, hearing, and touching all at once to make learning easier. It connects the sounds, letters, and meanings of words in a way that helps kids remember them faster and feel more confident. Jen's method makes reading fun again, step by step, and we're thrilled to hear her story and how Eyewords can help kids. Let's get...
2024-10-1621 min
New Books in Children's LiteratureTina Shepardson, "The Sorry Seeds" (Gnome Road, 2024)Tina Shepardson and I celebrate her wonderful new picture book The Sorry Seeds, just published (two days ago!!) by Gnome Road with gorgeous illustrations by Bong Hyun Shin. In our candid conversation, Tina reveals the true childhood story that led her to write the manuscript, and discusses her own journey from child to teacher to author, the critical steps she took to become a published children's author, how she felt when she first saw the visualization of her main character, Courtney, by the illustrator, and her advice for writers aspiring to break through. We also discuss the importance of ha...
2024-10-1543 min
Dave Allen PodcastThe Sorry SeedsLocal Children's Author Tina Shepardson on Syracuse's Morning News with Dave Allen
2024-10-0903 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsLifting Each Other Up: With Smiles and Teamwork Lifting Each Other Up : With Smiles And Teamwork What does it take to be a true leader in the face of challenges? Meet Sahasra, today's Lil' Leader! This incredible 7th grader has a heart full of empathy, always finding ways to help those in need. Even when faced with unexpected situations and comments, Sahasra stays optimistic and encourages her classmates to work together for the greater good. In her episode, you'll be inspired by her powerful approach to lifting others up. Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation! Picture Book Recommendations:...
2024-10-0213 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsA Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere Meet Peter Panopolous, this week's Big Leader feature! After 12 years of classroom teaching, Peter pursued his next dream—teaching online to support kids who needed alternative learning options. In this episode, we explore his strategies and compassionate approach as he created ATravelingTeacher.com. His platform helps students, whether they're ill or facing challenges that keep them out of traditional classrooms, find comfort and confidence in an online learning environment. Picture Book Recommendations: a. School Is Wherever I Am Author & Illustrator: Ellie Peterson...
2024-09-1819 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsBig Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a LeaderShow Notes Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader Meet Veera, our first Lil' Leader of the season! She's an elementary school student who loves helping others, even during her lessons. Supporting her peers and family is incredibly important to her! Her episode, 'Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader,' is also her first time on a podcast. Congratulations Veera! Enjoy our conversation with Veera and learn more about her inspiring story. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Scarecrow Author: Beth Fe...
2024-09-0409 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and UnityIn this week's REPOST episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by to share a special family story. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through with joy. Their story is one filled with family, love, determination, persistence, bravery and empathy. Enjoy listening to Baxter and Ethan in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Holdin Pott Author: Chandra Ghosh Ippen Illustrator: Erich Ippen Jr. A worn pressure cooker and a sweet...
2024-08-0716 min
The Children's Book PodcastSummer Episode Swap with The Lil Leaders PodcastIn this Summer Episode Swap, The Lil Leaders Podcast host Tina Shepardson talks about ways to make recess more inclusive. Essie shares her experiences of helping kids during recess who feel lonely and/or look sad. How? By listening to them and at the same time trying to figure out the best way to help. Inspired by the wonderful picture book, The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld, Essie shows compassion, advocacy, empathy, patience, connection, and true friendship through her actions. Visit The Lil Leaders Podcast online at thelilleaderspodcast.com You can pick up your own cop...
2024-07-2714 minThe Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Art of Voicing Children's Book StoriesWe are revisiting with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners on a magical literary adventure. Listen in as she shares her journey and the meaningful experiences she hopes to create for young readers. Enjoy this special feature interview! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Rattlesnake Rules Author: Conrad J. Storad Illustrator: Nathaniel P. Jensen If these babies shake their rattles, you'd better pay attention...
2024-07-1714 minThe Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsExploring Pages With Sister BookstagrammersEpisode 12 Repost: Welcome to this week's repost of an unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! With summer break underway, these girls know all the best books for kids aged 5 and up! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales as Paige and Laly bring their infectious energy and passion for reading straight to your ears. From early readers to tweens, no book is off-limits for these sister bookstagrammers. But it's not just about the books; it's about the journey. Paige and Laly will guide you with...
2024-07-0313 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsSeason 1 Finale With A Podcast Scavenger HuntA special thank you to everyone who made Season 1 a success and so much fun! To celebrate Season 1, we're hosting a special podcast scavenger hunt. Here's the scoop: we've hidden 10 questions across our episodes. In the podcast directory, guest names are shared in the description, so you know which episodes to listen to. Using the Google Form in the Instagram Bio, kids can listen closely to each episode to find the answers. Sound like fun? A child can work with one other child and collaborate. Both names must appear on the entry form. Submit when f...
2024-06-1904 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThrough Every Child's Eyes: Celebrating Diversity Life often seems like it's painted in black and white, but if we look closer, it's truly filled with vibrant colors—colors that come from our unique perceptions. Today, we're thrilled to introduce Celia Botto, the debut author of When Ayden Paints The Sky. Inspired by her young niece Ayden, Celia has woven a beautiful story where the canvas of the sky mirrors our emotions and the way we see the world. Join us as Celia shares her journey in crafting this inspiring tale, celebrating the artist, reader, and dreamer in all of us. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Noti...
2024-06-0518 min
Reading With Your Kids PodcastEmbracing Creativity in Education: Supporting Teachers and Engaging StudentsThis episode of Reading with Your Kids explores important topics in education through insightful conversations with Tina Shepardson & Lynnette Mawhinney. Tina Shepardson shares the true story behind her book "The Sorry Seeds," about apologizing to her first grade teacher. She reflects on shifts in parent-teacher relationships and the need to trust educators working daily with students. The discussion examines challenges facing teachers with strict lesson plans limiting creativity and connections with students. Tina emphasizes building rapport with children through open-ended questions and storytelling to encourage reflection on actions. Lynnette Mawhinney celebrates her graphic novel chronicling the remarkable...
2024-05-2455 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsTiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good BehaviorIn this week's REPOST episode, Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teacher is in class for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. This time of year the season is changing, kids see the end in sight, and they are easily distracted. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, sensitivity, and empathy. She shares great tips for helping the day run smoothly. Enjoy Abby in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Dear Substitute ...
2024-05-1508 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsFrom Woofs to Wows: Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools We're super excited to introduce you to someone really special in today's big leader feature. Say hello to Dr. Barbara Vokatis, who's not only an amazing literacy professor but also a dog-loving therapist! She and her furry friend Carmel love visiting schools to lend a paw in helping kids with their feelings, friendships, and learning. They're on a mission to spread the word about how wonderful dog therapy is and all the benefits to teachers and students. So, join us as we chat with Barbara and get ready to feel inspired! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Bentley's Day Out: A D...
2024-05-0128 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Puppeteer's Toolbox: Enhancing Education Through Theatre Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Danny Gibbins, an incredibly talented teacher and puppeteer, renowned for her professional workshops that entertain and educate kids and teachers through her business, @dramazing_kids. Danny joins us to share how blending education and entertainment using puppets opens the doors for children to understand they can solve their problems, understand their emotions, and have some fun along the way.. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Gigantosaurus: Roar, Giganto, Roar: A Puppet Book Authors: Cyber Group Studios Will Giganto win the roaring contest? Make a fearsome Gigantosaurus puppet come to life with this novelty board book.
2024-04-1720 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Magic of Mistakes and More with Shanda McCloskey Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Shanda McCloskey, an incredibly talented author/illustrator, renowned for her captivating children's books such as Doll-E 1.0, Nubby, and Little Red and the Big Bad Editor. Shanda joins us to share how embracing mistakes can pave the way for unexpected growth and creativity. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes Authors: Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein Illustrator: Mark Pett Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake. She never forgets her math homework, she never wears mismatched socks, and she ALWAYS wins the yearly talent show at school. In fact, th...
2024-04-0316 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsBalancing Screentime: Expert Tips for Tech-Intentional Families Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Emily Cherkin, also known as the ScreenTime Consultant and author of the acclaimed book, ScreenTime Solution: A Judgment-Free Guide to Becoming a tech-Intentional Family. Emily is on a mission to help families find balance in their digital lives by promoting a mindful approach to technology use. Drawing from her expertise and practical wisdom, she empowers parents and caregivers to navigate the intricacies of screen time in today's world. If you're looking for expert guidance and strategies to cultivate a healthier relationship with screens...
2024-03-2028 minThe Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsSisters Guiding Good Decision-MakingRepost: In this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet girls are funny, authentic, truthful, and hold strong values in compassion, empathy and friendship. Enjoy Kaya and Vivi in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. A Respectful Spot: A Story About Respecting People, Places, And Things Author and Illustrator: Diane Alber What does it mean to b...
2024-03-0612 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsBeyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. AveryBeyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery Today, we're thrilled to introduce our first big feature leader! Welcome to author, illustrator, and art teacher, Sean E. Avery! If you've ever needed tips and tools to boost your creativity, explore unique ways of making things, manage multiple passions well, or ignite a love for art in children, then you're in the right place. Join us as we dive into a fun and insightful conversation uncovering valuable insights to help your journey of discovery and growth. Kid Recommended Picture Books: a...
2024-02-2124 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsExploring Pages With Sister BookstagrammersShow Notes Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers Welcome to this week's unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales as Paige and Laly bring their infectious energy and passion for reading straight to your ears. From early readers to tweens, no book is off-limits for these sister bookstagrammers. But it's not just about the books; it's about the journey. Paige and Laly will guide you with humor and heart, showing you how to swap screens for the magic of reading. These sisters...
2024-02-0713 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsCreating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories Welcome to this week's episode! We sat down with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners on a magical literary adventure. Listen in as she shares her journey and the meaningful experiences she hopes to create for young readers. Enjoy this special feature interview! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Rattlesnake Rules Author: Conrad J...
2024-01-1714 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsInclusive Recess: Making a Difference One Friendship at a TimeIn this week's episode, Essie shares her experiences of helping kids during recess who feel lonely and/or look sad. How? By listening to them and at the same time trying to figure out the best way to help. Inspired by the wonderful picture book, The Rabbit Listened, Essie shows compassion, advocacy, empathy, patience, connection, and true friendship through her actions. Enjoy her in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Love Will Turn You Around Author: Mary Munson Illustrator: Kate Talbot Some days everything seems wrong, and life can make you feel . . . ben...
2024-01-0311 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsHow Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldrick's FundraisingToday is a repost of our very first episode. In the spirit of giving this holiday season, listening to Bodie Centore share his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's over the last ten years is heartwarming , and may also help us think about an organization near and dear to our hearts we would like to help. Additionally, anytime a child is ill, it is very tough for parents. We have a book specifically for first time parents to offer insight, support, and strategies for working through these difficult times as newborns sometimes have to fight too. ...
2023-12-2013 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsSisters Guiding Good Decision-MakingIn this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet girls are funny, authentic, truthful, and hold strong values in compassion, empathy and friendship. Enjoy Kaya and Vivi in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. A Respectful Spot: A Story About Respecting People, Places, And Things Author and Illustrator: Diane Alber What does it me...
2023-12-0612 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsTiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good BehaviorIn this week's episode,Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teachers for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, sensitivity, and empathy. Enjoy Abby in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Dear Substitute Author: Liz Garton Scanlon & Audrey Vernick Illustrator: Chris Raschka When a substitute teacher named Miss Pelly comes to class, one student bristles at the change in routine―Miss Pelly doesn't follow the ru...
2023-11-1508 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and UnityIn this week's episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by for a visit. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through with joy. Their story is one filled with family, love, determination, persistence, bravery and empathy. Enjoy listening to Baxter and Ethan in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Holdin Pott Author: Chandra Ghosh Ippen Illustrator: Erich Ippen Jr. A worn pressure cooker and a sweet little pot learn new...
2023-11-0116 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsYoung Heart, Big Impact: Inspiring Acts of Empathy and InclusionIn this week's episode, Kennedy stopped by for a visit. Currently in 6th grade, Kennedy shares her story about how she enjoys helping someone feel comfortable in new situations or sad ones. She is the person to help you find your way and she is happy to help. Her examples demonstrate a great deal of empathy, patience, loyalty, and generosity. Enjoy listening to Kennedy's generous nature in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Invisible Boy Author: Trudy Ludwig Illustrator: Patrice Barton Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody in class ever seems to no...
2023-10-1810 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsHoliday Harmony: Spreading Joy Through Song for the ElderlyWelcome back! In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Alyssa with us. Currently in 5th grade, Alyssa shares her gift of time with her junior girl scout troup during the holiday season. The joy the elderly felt made this is a worthwhile experience she hopes to participate in again this year. This young leader demonstrates empathy and enthusiasm. Enjoy listening to Alyssa's experience in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Title: JUST HELP!: How To Build A Better World Author: Sonia Sotomayor Illustrator: Angela Dominguez Every night when Soni...
2023-10-0406 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsHow Courage And Creativity Lead The Way To Embracing E.O.E.In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Logan visit us. Currently in 4th grade, he shares his journey with E.O.E., Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a rare gastrointestinal disease. From symptoms to diagnosis and beyond, Logan discovers through careful trial and error, new foods that are not only healthy for him but for others as well. This process opened a door to sharing his discoveries in the most creative and sweet ways. In addition, his passion in art has led him to raising money to donate to other organizations. Enjoy listening to Logan's inspiring process and approach in...
2023-09-2011 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsHow Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldricks FundraisingIn our inaugural episode, recent and accomplished, high school graduate, Bodie Centore shares his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's the last ten years. While he doesn't match the age range (K-6), he demonstrated such strong compassion, empathy, and leadership the year he was my student. Bodie has always been an active community member both in and out of school playing sports, participating in school clubs and musicals, or hanging out with family and friends. He's a terrific opening guest. (Second from right in photo) In his interview, Bodie shares the importance of being open-minded, encouraging, and inclusive...
2023-09-0613 min
The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with KidsThe Lil' Leader Podcast Trailer Lil' Leaders is a podcast for kids in grades K-6, that celebrates the traits, experiences, and actions that make leaders effective. We'll hear from real school-age students nationwide that are making an impact in our world today and close our time with a few picture book recommendations supporting, inspiring, and inviting children to lead in our ever-changing world. Join us as we explore and celebrate kids like you, who are growing into their best version of themselves while impacting others one step at a time. Hosted by a teacher, author, parent, and life-long learner just like you. Begin...
2023-07-0801 min