Beyond Specialization
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In a groundbreaking conversation about childhood development, author David Epstein reveals why pushing kids into early specialization might be doing more harm than good. His book "Range," now adapted for young readers, challenges traditional thinking about success and personal growth. Epstein argues that children benefit tremendously from exploring multiple interests rather than narrowing their focus too quickly. Drawing from research across sports, science, and personal development, he demonstrates that a broad range of experiences creates a more robust foundation for future success. The...
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What If Your Locker Was A Wormhole To The Past?
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty takes listeners on a delightful exploration of two remarkable children's books that spark imagination and address childhood experiences. First, author Sherri L. Smith introduces her speculative middle-grade novel, "Candace, the Universe and Everything." The book follows Candace, an eighth-grader navigating friendship challenges and a mysterious locker with an intriguing portal. Smith shares her writing journey, explaining how the story emerged from understanding how friendships evolve and the universal experience of...
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Lynn Smith Inspires Kids To Just Keep Going
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this inspiring episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with two remarkable authors who are transforming how children approach challenges and learning. Lynn Smith, a former CNN news anchor, introduces her children's book "Just Keep Going," a heartwarming story about a mouse navigating big feelings and overcoming fears. Drawing from her experience coaching executives, Smith reveals how she developed a method to help people—and children—push through their "brain bully" of self-doubt. The book follows a mouse's journey through the forest, encountering friends who teach...
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Where Only Storms Grow
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
In this captivating episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty explores two remarkable stories that celebrate courage, creativity, and the power of trying new things. Listeners are treated to inspiring conversations with authors Alyssa Colman and Emily Raymond, who share their unique approaches to children's literature. Alyssa Colman's middle-grade novel "Where Only Storms Grow" transports readers to the challenging era of the Dust Bowl, offering a poignant look at family, hope, and resilience. Set in 1935, the book follows twins Howe and Joanna Stanton as they navigate the harsh...
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Living Bridges
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Dive into a World of Wonder: Three Incredible Children's Books That Spark Imagination In this exciting episode of "Reading with Your Kids," host Jed Doherty explores three remarkable children's books that will captivate young readers and parents alike. First up is "Living Bridges" by Sandhya Acharya, a fascinating non-fiction picture book about an extraordinary engineering marvel in Meghalaya, India. These living bridges are created by carefully braiding tree roots, connecting communities across rivers in a breathtaking display of human ingenuity and nature's power. The book follows a young...
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Keeping The Light
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for a heartwarming journey into children's literature with Ali Gilkeson, the New York Times bestselling author who's lighting up bookshelves everywhere! In this delightful episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with Ali to explore her latest children's book, "Keeping the Light." Following the success of her debut book "My Lighthouse," Ali returns with another enchanting tale featuring her young protagonist Finn. This time, Finn takes on the role of lighthouse keeper, learning a powerful lesson about judgment, kindness, and keeping hope alive for everyone - no...
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Grandmother Moon
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Get ready for an incredible journey through children's literature that will inspire, educate, and warm your heart! In this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty sits down with three remarkable authors who are changing the landscape of children's books one page at a time. First up is Wunneanatsu Lamb Cason, who shares the magical story behind "Grandmother Moon," a beautiful picture book that bridges generations and cultural understanding. Inspired by her own grandmother's teachings, Wunneanatsu creates a touching narrative that celebrates indigenous storytelling and the powerful...
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Teachers, Technology, and Togetherness
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Exclusive Deals For Reading With Your Kids Listeners! Visit and use the promo code READ to get 30% off The Better Microalgae – your ultimate daily nutrient boost! Visit and use the promo code READ to get 20% off the most delicious pork snacks ever. Visit and use the promo code READ to get an incredible 41% off their ultra cozy and comfy bedding. In this engaging episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two talented children’s book authors: Sam Hepburn, creator of the middle grade graphic novel Schoolbot 9000, and Tim Button, author of the delightful...
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There's No Place Like Gnomes
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Join us for a heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids as host Jed Doherty welcomes three inspiring children’s authors—Scott Magoon, DT Scarola, and Lisa Caprelli—to share their latest picture books and the powerful messages behind them. This episode is packed with laughter, creativity, and meaningful conversations about community, diversity, and the magic of storytelling. Scott Magoon introduces his new book, There’s No Place Like Gnomes, a delightful tale inspired by his own backyard adventures. Scott discusses the importance of resilience, inclusion, and community-building,...
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Rainbows, Rockets and Reading
Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Exclusive Deals For Reading With Your Kids Listeners! Visit and use the promo code READ to get 30% off The Better Microalgae – your ultimate daily nutrient boost! Visit and use the promo code READ to get 20% off the most delicious pork snacks ever. Visit and use the promo code READ to get an incredible 41% off their ultra cozy and comfy bedding. In this uplifting episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes back two beloved children’s authors: Sheri Fink and Jeff Bennett. The episode kicks off with Sheri Fink, bestselling author of the new picture book Wishing You...
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In this heartfelt episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes two inspiring guests who are changing the way we talk to kids about life’s toughest moments. First up is Dr. Arian Hatefi, author of the debut middle grade novel A Seal Upon the Heart. Arian shares how his own cancer diagnosis at 37—and the wisdom of Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning—inspired him to write a story for his children about love, loss, and finding meaning even in the hardest times. Arian opens up about the importance of being present, the power of storytelling, and why kids deserve honest conversations about grief and mortality. He also discusses how his book, based on his own family, helps children process difficult emotions and encourages parents to use stories as a bridge to deeper discussions.
Next, Jed chats with Dr. Letishia Jefferson (Dr. J), pediatrician and author of Zoe’s Day with Dr. J, along with illustrator Bonnie Bright. Dr. J reveals how her experiences in the clinic—and as a mom—motivated her to create a book that eases kids’ anxiety about doctor visits. She offers practical tips for parents to prepare their children for medical appointments and highlights the benefits of reading together, from building early literacy skills to strengthening emotional bonds. Bonnie shares her creative process and the importance of representation in children’s books, ensuring all kids can see themselves as heroes.
Whether you’re looking for ways to talk to your kids about grief, illness, or just want to make doctor visits less scary, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and actionable advice. Tune in for moving stories, expert insights, and a celebration of the power of children’s literature to help families grow closer and stronger.
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