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Every Child Deserves to Belong

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Release Date: 03/13/2025

Celebrating Parenting, Pictures Books & Super Powers show art Celebrating Parenting, Pictures Books & Super Powers

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes three exceptional children's book creators—Brigette Barrager, celebrated author and illustrator of "Whoooo Is Still Awake?", Dr. Mark Perloe, author of the heartwarming "Milo's Superpower" and Lauren Drago, author of The Greenfield Dragon. Listeners are treated to a fascinating conversation about the magic and power of children's books, the importance of family support, and nurturing creativity in young readers. Brigette Barrager shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her latest bedtime story, "Whoooo Is Still...

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Adventures Of The World's Greatest Guide Dog show art Adventures Of The World's Greatest Guide Dog

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where host Jed Doherty welcomes three inspiring guests from the world of children’s books. First, we celebrate Aria Mia Loberti’s debut picture book, I Am Ingrid, a touching guide dog story about Ingrid, the world’s greatest guide dog, and Aria’s personal journey from living with low vision to regaining her sight. Aria shares deeply moving insights about her partnership with Ingrid, her life-changing vision correction, and the unique challenges of adapting to sight. In addition to her experience as a children’s...

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You Matter! show art You Matter!

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this powerful episode of the "Reading With Your Kids" podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two remarkable guests—Dean Sikes, author of "You Matter: Finding Hope and Meaning in Everyday Life," and Nathalie Iseli-Chan, educator and author of "Asking Questions About My Adoption Helps Me Grow." This episode dives deep into the essential issues of hope, suicide prevention, and the lifelong journey of discovering purpose and identity. Dean Sikes shares his moving personal journey as a speaker and advocate for mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for suicide prevention among youth. He...

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Ms. Penny Pickles Puzzle Quest show art Ms. Penny Pickles Puzzle Quest

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for an engaging episode where we welcome acclaimed children’s authors Chris Grabenstein and Joy Stephenson Laws to discuss their latest inspiring books—Ms. Penny Pickles Puzzle Quest and Secrets That Sparkle, Secrets That Sting. Host Jed Doherty leads a lively conversation packed with insights on igniting children’s love of reading, boosting literacy, and creating strong family connections through storytelling. Chris Grabenstein, bestselling author known for the Mr. Lemoncello series, shares the inside scoop behind his new middle grade adventure, Ms. Penny Pickles Puzzle Quest....

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Rapunzel, Sea Witches, and  Self-Acceptance show art Rapunzel, Sea Witches, and Self-Acceptance

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join host Jed Doherty on this lively episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast as he welcomes two inspiring authors bringing fresh perspectives to children’s literature. First, listen in as Kim Bussing discusses her imaginative new book, "Rapunzel and the Sea Witch," the third volume in the popular Princess Swap series. Kim shares how she reimagines classic fairy tales, swapping beloved princesses into new adventures, and talks about her creative journey from grad school to working with Random House. Learn why fairy tales connect across cultures and how these stories encourage creativity...

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Found Family & Fantastic Tales show art Found Family & Fantastic Tales

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for a special episode of Reading With Your Kids, where imagination and inspiration take center stage! This episode features captivating author interviews with Tiffany Wang, creator of the YA fantasy novel “Tempest's Queen,” and Valerie Ellis, author of the faith-based children’s book “Wild Faith Devotional.” Host Jed Doherty guides listeners through lively discussions about the power of family reading, the magic of well-built fictional worlds, and the importance of character development for young readers. Tiffany Wang shares the creative journey behind “Tempest's Queen”...

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A World of Tea & Tales: Exploring Culture in Children’s Books show art A World of Tea & Tales: Exploring Culture in Children’s Books

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

In this delightful episode of "Reading With Your Kids," host Jed Doherty welcomes author Adib Khorram and illustrator Hanna Cha to celebrate their wonderful picture book, "Tea Is Love." The conversation brims with warmth as Adib and Hanna share the story behind their collaboration, revealing that, surprisingly, many authors and illustrators rarely meet during the creative process—making their teamwork even more special. They chat about the inspiration for "Tea Is Love," exploring how tea connects people across cultures and generations, and how the book’s gentle words and stunning...

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Cuddly Pandas & Chaotic Chickens show art Cuddly Pandas & Chaotic Chickens

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Welcome to a heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids! Join host Jed Doherty as he sits down with talented authors CS Jennings and Nancy Tavares to explore the creative magic behind their latest children’s books, Whoa Panda and Chicken Coop Chaos. Discover how CS Jennings found inspiration in his sister’s larger-than-life dog and meaningful moments with children to create a lovable panda character, learning how the illustration process and story evolved together. Next, meet Nancy Tavares as she shares her experiences from 30 years teaching reading and how those lessons led to the...

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From Christmas Trees to Ospreys: Celebrating Imagination in Children’s Books show art From Christmas Trees to Ospreys: Celebrating Imagination in Children’s Books

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, where we dive into the magic and legacy of beloved children’s books! First, host Jed Doherty welcomes John Barry, son of Robert Barry, the creative mind behind the timeless classic “Mr. Willoughby’s Christmas Tree.” John shares touching memories of his father’s artistic journey and introduces “Mr. Willoughby’s Head Over Heels, Christmas,” a delightful new holiday story sure to enchant families for generations. Next, we meet children’s author Adrienne Palma, creator of “Oakley the Osprey” and the...

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Navigating Screens & Skies show art Navigating Screens & Skies

Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Join us for a captivating episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast featuring two inspiring authors who empower families through knowledge and storytelling! First, Dr. Brad Marshall, a leading expert on childhood screen and gaming disorders, shares actionable advice from his new middle-grade book, “Do Not Disturb.” Dr. Brad discusses the dangers of excessive screen time, the importance of healthy digital boundaries, and practical tips for parents navigating technology with their kids. Learn how his evidence-based approach helps families build healthier tech habits. Next, children’s...

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More Episodes

In this episode of Reading With Your Kids Jed Doherty had enlightening discussions with two experts dedicated to supporting children in the foster care system. In speaking with children's book author Natasha Tripplett, Jed learned about her new picture book "Planted with Love," which draws from Tripplett's own experiences as a foster care social worker and her family's decision to foster her sister long-term. Tripplett emphasized the importance of making foster children feel seen, valued and worthy of love, even when they display challenging behaviors. 
Jed also connected with foster care veteran Dr John DeGarmo, who has fostered over 60 children, adopting 3. DeGarmo shared that while fostering is a major commitment, there are many ways the community can support these families beyond just becoming foster parents themselves. He urged faith-based organizations in particular to get involved, as the foster care crisis represents a key "mission field" right in people's own backyards. DeGarmo suggested providing meals, supplies, mentorship and more as meaningful ways to make a difference.
Both Tripplett and DeGarmo highlighted the heartbreaking realities of the foster care system, with over 370,000 children currently displaced. However, their passion for uplifting these vulnerable youth and inspiring others to get involved was palpable. Readers will be moved to open their hearts and homes after learning from these two dedicated advocates.

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