Episodios

  • Myra’s Mission: Big Heart, Bright Vision

    Myra’s Mission: Big Heart, Bright Vision
    Jun 4 2025
    Meet 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 helping others can be more impactful when we work as a team. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Kidpreneurs: Young Entrepreneurs with Big Ideas! Authors: Adam & Matthew Toren Illustrator: Turonny Foo Created by two life-long entrepreneurs, Kidpreneurs outlines the basic tools and strategies kids can use to gain valuable experience in starting, managing, and growing a successful business venture. Using kid-friendly design and illustration, we break down some of the major points of entrepreneurship, so your child can have fun as he or she learns. They'll discover: What is an entrepreneur?How do I start my own business?What are business ethics and sustainability?Why is it so important to give back to others? b. What's the Worst that Could Happen? Authors: Julia Cook & Garrett Gunderson Illustrator: Josh Cleland Encourage financial literacy in kids of all ages with this fun and engaging picture book from bestselling children's author Julia Cook and financial expert Garrett Gunderson! Who better to teach kids about money than MONEY himself? As readers follow along in this delightful, easy-to-understand picture book, they'll learn: how to earn moneyhow to save moneyhow to spend money (wisely)and the most important thing: how to give it away to help others! Kids will also be introduced to the different forms money can take like cash, cards, and even crypto! Additional fun facts and money tips in the back , make this book a great classroom resource, teaching tool for curious kids, or first finance book for aspiring entrepreneurs! Cool Q's For Discussion: 1. What stood out to you most about Myra’s story? 2. Myra says there's no time like the present to start—what’s something you’ve been wanting to try or create? 2. How does working together with others make a difference when you're trying to help a cause? 3. If you could organize a business fair with your friends, what kind of booth or project would you want to do? 4. Myra used her creativity to help others. Can you think of a way to use your talents to support a cause that matters to you? 5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Myra? Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina
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    11 m
  • Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter

    Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter
    May 23 2025

    In 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 help you thrive!

    Tune in for skills kids can work on over the summer to build confidence and connection before heading into middle school. This was such a special collaboration with a classroom full of Lil’ Leaders—a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Eastin, who inspired her students to lead with purpose and positivity.

    Picture Book Recommendations:

    a. The Creature of Habit

    Author: Jennifer E. Smith Illustrator: Leo Espinosa


    A very big creature with big teeth, big eyes, and very big feet lives on the island of Habit. Every day the creature happily does the exact same things in the exact same order.

    That is, until a small boat carrying a very small creature with small teeth, small eyes, and very, very small feet arrives on the island. The big creature is excited to share his routine, but the small creature has ideas of his own. The little creature does something different every day--it's madness to the big creature!

    Can these two creatures learn to understand each other? Is the island big enough for both of them? Colorful and captivating, this is a story about learning with and from your friends.

    b. The Day My Clock Broke

    Author: Vix Browne Illustrator: Moch Fajar Shobaru

    Safe inside his cozy nest, a young bird considers whether or not to give his new wings a try. What if he tries and the wings don’t work, and he flails, plummets, and looks foolish? Then again, what if his wings take him swooping and gliding, sailing and flying through a great big wonderful world? He’ll never know if he never endeavors. With the help of her bold, beautiful collage artwork, Caldecott Honor-winning artist Holly Meade offers a gentle nudge for hesitant fledglings of all ages and species to step out, to dare, to try . . . and to fly.

    Cool Q's For Discussion:

    1. Which habit do you think would help you the most right now, and why?

    (Example: Do you need help with staying organized, solving problems with friends, or feeling more confident?)

    2. What does "being proactive" mean to you, and can you think of a time you made a good choice without being told?

    3. When you have a lot to do, how do you decide what to do first? How could the "prioritize" habit help you?

    4. What does it mean to "seek first to understand, then to be understood"? How could that help you in a disagreement with a friend or sibling?

    5. "Sharpening the tool" means taking care of yourself. What’s one thing you do to recharge your body or brain when you feel tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed?

    6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode?

    Have a great week everyone!

    Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

    Tina
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    18 m
  • Veera's Return: A Voice For New Students

    Veera's Return: A Voice For New Students
    May 21 2025

    Veera 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 celebrates the spirit of curiosity and encourages kids to courageously ask their hard questions

    "Why can't people live on the moon?"

    "Can I be president when I grow up?"

    "What makes a person good?"

    These are just some of the questions that bubble forth from one little girl with twinkling eyes and a curious mind. When the girl finds that her big questions make some people uncomfortable, she stops. But then she learns that her questions can solve problems and that asking questions is how we learn and grow.

    Celebrate the spirit of curiosity and the joy of learning with this lively picture book about a persistent girl and her quest for knowledge.

    b. What's the Worst that Could Happen?

    Author: Yewande Daniel-Ayoade Illustrator: Renāte Logina

    What’s the worst that could happen? Easy for grandma to say. But Kayla could only imagine the worst-case scenarios as she tried to make friends at her new school. Will Kayla overcome her fear of rejection? Or will an overactive imagination get in the way?'What's the Worst that Could Happen?' is a heartwarming book that explores living with social anxiety from a child's perspective.

    Cool Q's For Discussion:

    1. What’s one way you can help a new student feel welcome at your school?

    2. Veera talks about how we all have tough days- socially and academically—how do you usually get through those kinds of days?

    3. If your school had a program like the Envoy Program, would you want to be part of it? Why or why not?

    4. Veera mentions that being kind can help others feel like they belong. What are some simple acts of kindness you could do this week?

    5. What’s one piece of advice you would give to a new student coming to your school in the fall?

    6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode?

    Have a great week everyone!

    Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

    Tina
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    9 m
  • Kidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way

    Kidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way
    May 7 2025


    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 welcoming obstacles is the secret to personal growth.

    Dhurvin's story is a powerful reminder that following your passions keeps you motivated, connected, and always moving forward. What if every time your child said “I can’t,” they followed it with “...yet”?

    Tune in for really wonderful pieces of wisdom and a real reminder that growth happens when we embrace the chaos.

    Want to see your story or illustration in Kidlio Magazine?
    Send your work to Dhurvin at kidliomag@gmail.com or visit www.Kidliomag.com to learn how to submit!

    Picture Book Recommendations:

    a. Louise Loves Art

    Author & Illustrator: Kelly Light

    this stunning debut from Kelly Light is an irresistible story about the importance of creativity in all its forms.

    Meet Louise. Louise loves art more than anything. It's her imagination on the outside. She is determined to create a masterpiece—her pièce de résistance!

    Louise also loves Art, her little brother. This is their story.

    Louise Loves Art is a celebration of the brilliant artist who resides in all of us.

    b. If I Never Forever Endeavor

    Author & Illustrator: Holly Meade

    Safe inside his cozy nest, a young bird considers whether or not to give his new wings a try. What if he tries and the wings don’t work, and he flails, plummets, and looks foolish? Then again, what if his wings take him swooping and gliding, sailing and flying through a great big wonderful world? He’ll never know if he never endeavors. With the help of her bold, beautiful collage artwork, Caldecott Honor-winning artist Holly Meade offers a gentle nudge for hesitant fledglings of all ages and species to step out, to dare, to try . . . and to fly.

    Cool Q's For Discussion:

    1. What inspired you to start Kidlio Magazine when you were only 10 years old?

    2. How do you balance managing the magazine with your schoolwork and other activities?

    3. Why do you think it’s important to have hobbies and follow your passions?

    4. Can you share a time when an obstacle helped you grow or taught you something new?

    5. What are your dreams and goals for Kidlio Magazine in the future?

    6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Dhurvin?

    Have a great week everyone!

    Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

    Tina
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    18 m
  • Growth Mindset Matters with Michelle Blais

    Growth Mindset Matters with Michelle Blais
    Apr 16 2025
    What 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 simple, everyday strategies that parents can use at home to support their child’s resilience and confidence. Michele reminds us: We never know what we’re capable of… unless we try. Tune in for real talk, real tools, and a real reminder that growth is messy—and that’s the magic. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Emily Snook: The World's Smallest Cook Author: Laura Bower Illustrator: Rehka Salin Emily Snook is a whiz in the kitchen. But when she enters an international cooking contest and meets the competition, her hopes of winning deflate like a botched soufflé. Everyone is older, taller and in serious doubt of her cooking capabilities! A classic underdog story, Emily Snook: The World's Smallest Cook reminds readers of the power of determination and a willingness to take risks. With the encouragement and support of her favorite sous chef - her grandpa - Emily tackles each cooking catastrophe that threatens her chance of winning. From utensils that are too big to counters too high, Emily Snook takes on the challenges of being the tiniest contestant, proving to everyone that being small doesn't mean you can't do it all. b. Kai Po Che: Mimi's Perfect Kite Authors: Suhasini Gupta Illustrator: Devika Oza “Kai Po Che! I’ve cut the kite!” Mini discovers that flying her own perfect diamond during Makar Sankranti requires equal parts creativity, compassion, and courage in order to truly soar. It’s Makar Sankranti, the Indian festival of kites, and Mini wants to join in the fun. But her older brother insists that flying kites is not for little girls. Using her craft-making skills, Mini constructs her own not-so-perfect kite and learns to fly it with her brother’s help. But during Sankranti, it’s fair game to cut another kite’s string and keep it as your own! When a red kite comes along and causes a KITE-ASTROPHE, Mini decides it’s time to challenge the red kite to a battle in the sky. In the end, she discovers that her not-so-perfect kite is really her very own perfect diamond. Cool Q's For Discussion: What does “FAIL = First Attempt In Learning” mean to you or your child? How could reframing failure like this change the way you and your family handle mistakes? Michelle shared that we don’t know what we’re capable of unless we try. What’s something new your child has tried recently? How did it go? Which of Michelle’s simple at-home strategies stood out to you the most? Have you tried it—or are you planning to? Share how it went! When was a time your child surprised you with their resilience or growth mindset? How do you talk about mistakes and trying again in your home? Drop your go-to phrases, people or routines that help you feel safe to keep trying over and over. Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina
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    29 m
  • Click With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop Cyberbullying

    Click With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop Cyberbullying
    Apr 2 2025
    Ashley, 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: a. Sasha Goes To Cyberspace Author & Illustrator: Ashley Parker Sasha Goes to Cyberspace is about a young dog named Sasha who receives a phone for her birthday. While Sasha is initially excited to engage in online interactions, she quickly encounters the challenges that come with the cyber world. The cyberbully, Sly the Snake, causes Sasha to experience a range of negative emotions through the hurtful pictures he posts on the internet. With the help of her friend, Sasha learns how to overcome online negativity and ultimately influences Sly to change his cruel behavior. This book aims to tackle cyberbullying and spread awareness among children, providing them with tools and understanding to navigate online interactions positively. b. Polly and the Screen Time Overload Authors: Betsy Childs Howard Illustrator: Samara hardy Technology can be a helpful tool and source of enjoyment for many families―a way to aid children with learning, to connect with loved ones, and to provide entertainment. But as with many good gifts from God, tech devices are best used in moderation. In this new picture book, readers meet Polly while on a trip to her grandparents’ farm. During her visit she spends all her time on her new tablet instead of enjoying the farm animals and playing with her cousins. A chat with her grandfather teaches her that, though screen time can be good, it can also keep kids away from better things. Using simple language and beautiful illustrations, children ages 3–7 are introduced to the idea that technology is best enjoyed within boundaries. Cool Q's For Discussion: 1. Before getting her phone, Ashley didn’t realize the full impact of social media. What do you think are some things kids should know before they start using social media? 2. Ashley experienced the downside of social media through cyberbullying. How do you think kids and adults can work together to prevent and stop cyberbullying? 3. Ashley turned her experiences into something positive by writing a book and starting a nonprofit. If you could create something to make the internet a better place, what would it be? 4. Sometimes, we don’t realize how much time we spend on our phones. How can we balance enjoying technology while also staying connected to the real world around us? 5. Ashley’s nonprofit is called Click With Kindness. What are some ways we can practice kindness when we’re online, whether through texting, gaming, or social media? 6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Ashley? Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina
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    12 m
  • Teaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership Journey

    Teaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership Journey
    Mar 19 2025
    Let'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. Enjoy today's lil' leader! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Dream You'll Be Author: Joseph T. Garcia Illustrator: Kimberly Barnes This dreamy picture book takes children on an inspirational journey through all the wonderful things they can become. Motivational rhyming text by Joseph T. Garcia and whimsical illustrations by Kimberley Barnes show kids that they can be anything they dream of, and nontraditional jobs for boys and girls are encouraged. Dream You'll Be is the perfect conversation starter for parents and their children who are wondering what they might want to be when they grow up! b. Y is for Yet Authors: Shannon Anderson Illustrator: Jake Souva Kids learn how to adopt a growth mindset through the familiar structure of the ABCs. Mistakes aren’t just mistakes. They’re growth spurts. Developing a growth mindset―a belief that learning is a process that requires dedication and hard work, not just talent―helps kids learn from their mistakes, build resilience, and strive to be a little better every day. Readers can open to any page and find useful information. Younger children learn new vocabulary, while older kids can increase their knowledge of the brain’s neuroplasticity and the many ways growth mindset can be put into action. A section at the back of the book provides a kid-friendly glossary of terms and activities adults can use to help kids build resilience and foster a growth mindset. Cool Q's For Discussion: Dhanvi realized that teaching is more effective when others participate step by step. Have you ever had to teach someone something? What did you learn from the experience? 2. Staying positive when things are tough is one of Dhanvi’s strengths. What are some ways you keep a positive attitude during challenging times? 3. Dhanvi reaches out to family and friends when life gets busy. Who do you turn to when you need support, and why do they help you feel more like yourself? 4. If you could teach a group of friends one creative skill (like drawing, singing, or playing a sport), what would it be? How would you make sure they are learning in the best way possible? 5. Dhanvi dreams of becoming a doctor to help others. What is something you love doing that could help people in the future? 6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Dhanvi? Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina
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    11 m
  • The Magic of Storytime with Rella B. Books

    The Magic of Storytime with Rella B. Books
    Mar 5 2025
    Today, 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 heart of it all? Helping kids love reading while reminding them of something so important—to love and take care of themselves! 💛 Let’s explore the world of stories together! Picture Book Recommendations: a. Can You Do This: An Imagination Play Book Author & Illustrator: Megan Roy An imaginative and interactive picture book that uniquely combines reading, counting, movement, and play for kids ages 2–5, providing a source of screen-free indoor entertainment perfect for quality time at home From stomping their feet to standing on one leg, each page invites participation with prompts like “Can you hop like a bunny?” and “Can you stretch your arms all the way up to the sky?” As kids act out the playful challenges, they’ll exercise their bodies and minds, while sharing laughs with family and friends. The perfect way to expend energy and pave the way for a good night’s sleep! b. Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art transformed A Neighborhood Authors: F. Isabel Campoy & Theresa Howell Illustrator: Rafael López In this exuberant picture book about transformation through art, Mira lives in a gray urban community until a muralist arrives and, along with his paints and brushes, brings color, joy, and hope to the neighborhood. What good can a splash of color do in a community of gray? As Mira and her neighbors discover, more than you might ever imagine! Based on the true story of the Urban Art Trail in San Diego, California, Maybe Something Beautiful reveals how art can inspire transformation—and how even the smallest artists can accomplish something big. Pick up a paintbrush and join the celebration! Cool Q's For Discussion: 1. What’s your favorite way to take a brain break during a busy day? 2. How do stories help you learn something new or see the world differently? 3. Who is someone you admire, and what have they taught you? 4. What’s a book or story that made you feel really good and appreciate yourself more after reading it? 5. If you could create your own storytime show, what would it look like? 6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode? Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina
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    10 m
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