Illustrating the Wonders of Wildlife and Childhood with Kayla Harren

Send us a textImagine diving into a world where vibrant illustrations bring joy, diversity, and wildlife conservation to life. In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane chats with the talented illustrator Kayla Harren, who has turned her passion for art into a meaningful journey that connects children with stories of inclusion and the wonders of wildlife.Podcast Summary In this episode, Kayla Harren shares her journey from aspiring artist to inspired children's book illustrator, with a special focus on her books This Is How We Play and This Is How We Talk, which center characters with disabilities and special needs. Kayla discusses the importance of authentic representation and joy in illustrating diverse characters. She also shares her unexpected path into wildlife conservation, leading to exciting collaborations with the Wild Nature Institute and our shared adventure in South Africa with CBCC (Children's Book Creators for Conservation) and Wild Tomorrow. Throughout the conversation, Kayla highlights the power of storytelling, creativity, and finding beauty in everyday moments.Chapters and Timestamps01:03: Illustrating Joy and Diversity in Books10:27: Connecting Illustration to African Wildlife Conservation 23:11: Finding Hope in Small Things Order Kayla's Books:This Is How We PlayThis Is How We TalkA Voice Like YoursA Planet Like OursPreorder A Puppy Like YoursJuma the GiraffeHelping Brother RhinocerosOur Elephant NeighborsThe Boy Who Grew a ForestCalvinOskar's VoyageFollow @kaylaharren on instagram.Join us for an episode that celebrates the profound impact of art, storytelling, and conservation. Be inspired to see the world through a lens of joy and creativity!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textImagine a world where walking out the door inspires adventure and a love of nature, from tiny bugs on the sidewalk to giant redwoods standing sentinel. Could it be that these adventures can inspire systemic change? On Episode 152 of the Adventures in Learning podcast, author Meg Fleming chats with Dr. Diane about the power of sparking wonder, curiosity, and connection to the natural world.Known for weaving musicality with storytelling, Meg is the author of such books as I Heart You, Sometimes Rain, Sounds Like School Spirit, Rock That Vote, Wondering Around, and I Live in a Tree Trunk. Her latest book, The Everything Trail is a lyrical nature inspired narrative that captures the ability of kids to transform simple hikes and outings into major adventures of discovery (and the illustrations by Chuck Groenink elevate the reader into the redwood forest).This week, Meg and I are traveling with CBCC (Children's Book Creators for Conservation). Meg shares some of her transformative experiences from her first trip to South Africa with Wild Tomorrow, highlighting the profound connection between humanity, habitats, and wildlife. We invite you to join us on our adventure! If you have any questions about the wildlife, conservation efforts, or community connections, please leave them in the comments. We’ll do our best to answer them or find answers while we’re there. Timestamps01:09 - Writing Lyrical Children's Books, The Adventures in Learning of Author Meg Fleming04:49 - Nature's Wonder: The Inspiration Behind The Everything Trail09:59 - Connecting to nature in big and small ways for engaged learning14:10 - Using school visits to spark curiosity, wonder, and connection to the planet16:21 - Conservation, Connection, and Returning to South Africa with CBCC and Wild Tomorrow0:34:15 - Inspiring Hope Through Nature and ChildrenLinksMeg Fleming's Official WebsiteFollow Meg, Dr. Diane, and CBCC on InstagramPurchase The Everything TrailSupport the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textStep into a world where humor and horror dance together in perfect harmony. Join the award-winning author/illustrator duo of Aaron Reynolds and Peter Brown as we dive into the eerie yet delightful tale behind their new book for older readers -- Troubling Tonsils. Maturing fans of the Creepy Carrots, Creepy Pair of Underwear, and Creepy Crayon picture books will love this new chapter book series that evokes the nostalgic chills of "The Twilight Zone" while offering elementary readers a safe and thrilling haven to face their fears. (This reader dreamt of globs and glands after staying up late to finish the book!)Chapters:1:03: A Delightfully Creepy Collaboration5:10: Safe Darkness: Mixing Creepy Themes and Nostalgic Call Backs for a Fun Reading Experience10:09: Picking the Distinctive Color Palattes for the Creepy Books14:05: Expanding and Growing the Creepy Picture Books Into a Chapter Book Series for Older Readers 20:14: Sneak Peek at Unsettling Salad and Yarn Is Everything, plus the recently published Wild Robot On The Island picture book and why Aaron is currently in full creepy mode27:56: Hope in writing for kids and unlocking the human imaginationLinks:Explore more about Aaron Reynolds and Peter BrownOrder Troubling Tonsils and preorder Unsettling Salad Order Creepy Carrots, Creepy Pair of Underwear, and Creepy CrayonSubscribe for more enchanting discussions and creative insights. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with fellow book lovers. And let us know what you think about this creepy read!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textImagine a world where every voice is heard, where empathy leads to genuine dialogue, and where personal transformation fuels leadership growth. How can we harness the power of our voice to inspire change and empowerment in ourselves and others? Join us in this compelling episode as we sit down with Tricia Brouk, an award-winning director, producer, author, and speaker, who transitioned from a successful dance career to a powerful advocate for amplifying voices. Through her Big Talk Academy, Tricia has become a thought leader in communication, championing the importance of empathy and the courage needed for authentic conversations. Tricia's new book, Being Smart Is Stupid: Why Embracing the Wisdom of Your Buddha Nature is the Secret to Great Leadership, explores the question: What if everything you've been told about leadership is wrong?We delve into Tricia's latest entrepreneural venture, The Wise Leopard, focusing on empowering women in midlife. In our current troubled environment, we talk frankly about how choosing love over fear and speaking out can lead to transformative change. Chapters with Timestamps:00:03: The Power of Your Voice 07:43: Being Smart Is Stupid10:39: Empowering Women in Midlife25:03: Choose Love, Speak Out, Have Courage Links:Preorder Being Smart Is Stupid: Why Embracing the Wisdom of Your Buddha Nature is the Secret to Great LeadershipConnect with Tricia Brouk on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.Listen to The Big Talk With Tricia BroukLearn more about:The Big Talk AcademyThe Wise LeopardTricia Brouk's websiteDon't forget to subscribe to the Adventures in Learning podcast and leave a review! Your voice matters, and we'd love to hear from you. Thanks for celebrating three years of storytelling with us!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textImagine a world where art can reshape education and unlock the potential within each of us. That world is possible if we collaborate -- and this week's guest, Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator Molly Idle, has some inspiring ideas to get us started. In this episode, Molly shares her artistic journey, from her early inspiration sparked by The Little Mermaid to her influential work at DreamWorks Feature Animation. Discover how her beloved children's books, such as Pearl, Flora and the Flamingo, and I Don't Care, serve as more than just stories, becoming catalysts for educational initiatives and creative exploration. We delve into the magic of collaboration and challenge traditional education models, advocating for an approach that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. Join us as we explore the transformative power of friendship, art, and exploring new perspectives. And join us next month as we participate in the CBCC/Wild Tomorrow conservation adventure in South Africa. Ask us about conservation efforts or your favorite animals -- and we'll do our best to share the answers while we're there.Chapter Summaries:01:04:Molly Idle's Adventures in Learning09:29:Power of the ARTS in STEAM11:59:Reimagining Education Through Creativity16:42:Experimenting with Collaboration and New Media: Working with Bestie Juana Martinez-Neal on I Don't Care21:07:How do we use the form of our life sonnet to impact change?26:48:Promo Ad27:48:CBCC/Wild Tomorrow conservation trip to South Africa and the importance of dreaming big and acting now to make a difference37:23: Leveled up collaboration in three upcoming books39:45:HopeLinks and Resources:Website: Molly IdleFollow @mollyidle on InstagramLearn more about CBCC/Wild Tomorrow and their conservation efforts.Join us on this journey of creativity and collaboration. Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on future episodes, and don't forget to leave a review. Share your thoughts on reimagining education and how you embrace creativity in your life. Connect with us on social media and be part of the conversation!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textStories spread wings. How do stories serve as windows into diverse cultures and histories while inspiring us to embrace our own identities? Author, educator, and global adventurer Leah Henderson helps us explore the transformative power of rich storytelling. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and librarians working to create spaces that celebrate our diversity. Leah also discusses her upcoming conservation trip to South Africa with CBCC and Wild Tomorrow, highlighting the importance of learning, sharing, and finding courage through stories. Chapters:0:03: Exploring Diverse Storytelling: Dive into Leah's journey, exploring how childhood travels shaped her storytelling and ignited her curiosity for uncovering untold stories.8:10: Cultural Connections: Explore Leah's collaboration on the upcoming I Am the River: Sarah E. Ray and the Bob-Lo Boat, plus how author visits spark possibilities for children.12:48: Traveling, Learning, and Sharing Stories: Explore the importance of embracing the unknown to gain invaluable lessons. 19:53: Finding Courage Through Inspiring Stories: Learn about Barbara Hillary's inspiring story of defying odds to reach the poles, and the significance of storytelling in building courage and self-belief.25:08: Building Hope Through Genuine Connections: How can we nurture every child's voice while fostering understanding and connection?Links:Leah Henderson WebsiteFollow Leah on Instagram, LinkedIn, or FacebookPreorder  I Am the River: Sarah E. Ray and the Bob-Lo Boat (a collaboration with Patricia Lee Gauch & Kristle Marshall)Order: The Courage of the Little Hummingbird; Together We March; Daddy Speaks Love; Your Voice, Your Vote; The Magic In Changing Your Stars; and A Little Bit Super: With Small Powers Come Big Problems. Learn more about CBCC and Wild Tomorrow. Email [email protected] to receive special videos and content from the South Africa trip.Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textHow can the simple act of play revolutionize early childhood education and reignite a passion for teaching?Join us on a transformative journey as Rebecca List Freedman, co-founder of FirstDay Learning, reveals the incredible potential of play in early childhood education. Discover how integrating play into classrooms not only addresses challenging behaviors but also enhances teacher well-being. Rebecca shares innovative strategies for creating joyful learning environments that build pro-social skills and relational trust. Learn how empathy, negotiation, and conflict resolution can be effortlessly woven into daily activities, and how storytelling and real-life scenarios can develop empathy and perspective-taking. This episode is packed with fresh perspectives and practical solutions to foster creativity, empathy, and enthusiasm in education.Key Takeaways: Play is a powerful tool for tackling challenging behaviors and enhancing teacher well-being.Empathy, negotiation, and conflict resolution can be integrated into classroom activities through purposeful play.Storytelling and real-life scenarios are essential for developing empathy and perspective-taking in children.Building a supportive teaching community is crucial for teacher wellness and rekindling a passion for teaching.Chapters: 01:03: Promoting Playful Learning in Early Childhood 10:29: Play as a Tool for Building Empathy and Conflict Resolution Skills22:33: Storytelling to Foster Creativity and Self-Exploration 26:30: Rekindling Teacher Joy in Early Childhood Links: FirstDay Learning websiteConnect with Rebecca Freedman on LinkedInFollow FirstDay Learning on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook Call to Action: Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring conversations and share this episode with fellow educators who might benefit from these innovative strategies. Let's work together to create joyful and effective learning environments!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textAre you ready to break through your limitations and unlock your full potential?Join us as Adolfo Gómez Sánchez, best-selling author, speaker, and Chief Passion Officer at Gold Results, shares his remarkable journey from competitive athletics to leadership in performance psychology.Adolfo Gómez Sánchez and Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor met while speaking in New York under the direction of Tricia Brouk -- and quickly discovered shared synergy between Adolfo's Optimum Performance Formula and Dr. Diane's work of helping educators learn and lead through play. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to foster a culture of continuous improvement and high performance, especially those in educational leadership roles who aim to inspire both educators and students.Why Listen:Gain actionable strategies to manage stress and pressure, vital for both startups and established businesses, and equally important in educational settings where teachers and students face constant demands.Learn how to apply an athlete's approach to leadership, enhancing success and innovation in schools and educational institutions.Explore the transformative power of reframing failure and embracing courage, essential for educators and leaders aiming to cultivate resilience and perseverance in students.Understand the importance of curiosity and collaboration in driving performance, key components in creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment.Get inspired to create thriving teams that support growth and development, crucial for educators seeking to foster collaborative and supportive school cultures.Chapters:00:38:Adolfo's origin story03:23:Unpacking the Optimum Performance Formula 16:58:Investing in Practice, Not Perfection -- Applying the Optimum Performance Formula principles to education26:18:Embracing Failure and Taking Chances 35:55:Brave Leaders Empowering Performance With Curiosity and Collaboration Links:The Optimal Performance FormulaAdolfo Gómez Sánchez's websiteGold ResultsListen to Adolfo Gómez Sánchez speak about the importance of failure for performance optimizationConnect with Adolfo on LinkedInSupport the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textHow can creating language-rich environments empower multilingual learners and elevate the educational experience for everyone in the classroom? Join us for a transformative discussion with Katherine Hamilton, former Vice President of Programs for Ensemble Learning, as she reveals powerful strategies to achieve just that.Summary:In this episode, Katherine Hamilton shares her inspiring journey from high school math teacher to a leading advocate for multilingual education and STEM. With a focus on creating inclusive and language-rich classrooms, Katherine reveals practical strategies that educators can use today to support multilingual learners with vocabulary, content areas, and engaged learning. She discusses the role of technology, the importance of professional development, and how fostering strong relationships can inspire joy and wonder in learning. Katherine's insights offer a roadmap for educators striving to unlock the potential of multilingual students and transform their classrooms for every learner.Chapters:2:03: Multilingual Learners and Language Development: We explore the strengths multilingual learners bring to the classroom and the importance of language-rich environments.14:24: Supporting Multilingual Learners in Education: Explore techniques like sentence stems and frames to support students with varying English proficiency. 23:14: Empowering Teachers to Connect Multilingual Education with Math, Science, and other Content Areas 28:33: Building Connections Through Play and RelationshipsResources and Links:Visit Ensemble Learning for more resources and insights on multilingual education. Contact Dr. Julia Lara for programming inquiries.Katherine Hamilton is now Executive Director of Friends of GALA (Girls Academic Leadership Academy)Join us as we explore innovative strategies to support multilingual learners and inspire educational success for all students.Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textWhat if stories and play were the bridge between children (and their grown ups) and nature? Join us as we explore this concept with Susie Spikol, a naturalist and educator whose enchanting book, Forest Magic for Kids: How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort, and Cook Up an Elfin Picnic, serves as a portal to the wonders of the natural world. Susie shares her journey from being a Brooklyn secret fort naturalist inspired by childhood tales like Winnie the Pooh and The Hobbit to her life's work as a naturalist and storyteller in New Hampshire. Discover how storytelling can transform outdoor adventures into magical experiences, sparking curiosity and a love for nature among kids and their grownups -- whether at home or in the classroom. We'll even share a few personal tales of fairy houses and secret forts that have left a lasting mark on our hearts.We delve into the whimsical activities outlined in Susie's book, each designed to ignite children's creativity and connection to the environment. From crown making to potion crafting, these projects encourage imaginative play and environmental stewardship. Susie also highlights her work at the Harris Center for Conservation Education, where she nurtures a sense of wonder in both kids and adults. Links:Susie's WebpageOrder: Forest Magic for Kids and The Animal Adventurer's GuidePreorder: The Book of Fairies Connect on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedInNature Resources for Early ChildhoodThe Healing Power of Nature and STEAMChapters:01:37:Forest Magic for Kids03:26:Where stories, imagination, and nature collide07:33:Permission to Play13:14:Loose Parts Play14:43:Deep diving into Forest Magic for Kids17:34:Promo18:34:What is a naturalist? 23:34:Slowing down to connect -- no global crisis needed27:27:The Book of Fairies 28:32:Bringing nature to the classroomSupport the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.