Reading With Your Kids Podcast
by Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc
Reading With Your Kids is all about encouraging parents to read with their kids, and cook with their kids, and do activities with their kids, and experience tv, movies and music together. In other words, our podcast is all about helping parents build stronger relationships with their kids.
Episodes
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Letting Kids Find Their Own Way: Anthony and Dr. Judy Robles
We're celebrating episode 2500 of Reading with Your Kids with true champions: NCAA national wrestling champion Anthony Robles, his mom, Dr. Judy Robles, and author Dr. Jenny Trocchio. Anthony shared how his picture book, Unstoppable Anthony, was inspired by his son, Abel, and the lessons his…
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Finding The Spark: Creativity, Community & Kindness
In this episode, host Jed Doherty welcomes two picture-book authors to talk about imagination, family, and the kindness stories can inspire. First, R.J. Palacio shares The Haunted Playground, a playful tale in which Rex Magnificus, king of the ghosts, invites spirits from around the world to…
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Ashley Belote on Mystery, Illustration, and Graphic Novels for Young Readers
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids Jed welcomes author-illustrator Ashley Belote to discuss her early-reader graphic novel, Squirrel Lock Holmes: Mystery at the Corny Maze. Ashley describes Squirrel Lock as a spirited woodland detective partnered with Mole Watson. The character grew from…
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Celebrating Literacy, Representation, and Wildlife
Jed Doherty welcomes listeners to two conversations about books and literacy. First, Mia Wenjen celebrates the third annual Newton Children's Book Festival, taking place November 15 at the American Legion Nonantum Post 440. Its accessible venue will welcome 100 authors and illustrators, with…
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Stories That Teach Kindness, Courage and Wonder
Join host Jed Doherty for an episode featuring two authors whose books invite readers to lead with kindness and imagination. First, Janet Zappala introduces Guapo in the Mystery of Goodness Grove, a picture book inspired by Guapo, a steer weighing more than 3,000 pounds. Guapo is famous for his...
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Latkes, Learning and the Power of Movement
This episode brings together two authors whose work helps children connect with books and learning in different ways. Martha Seif Simpson joins Jed to talk about her easy-reader graphic novel, I Will Not Eat Latkes, designed for readers and the Hanukkah season. She explains how family…
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Stories That Help Us Laugh, Create and Heal
In this episode, host Jed Doherty welcomes picture-book creators Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox to talk about their new book, Beware the Sock Monkeys. The couple describes how they began making books together and how their close collaboration lets them shape both manuscript and illustrations....
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Mirrors, Windows & Worlds Of Wonder
This episode brings together authors, artists, and a generous dose of imagination to explore how books connect generations and shape young readers. We first hear from author Tracy Todd and illustrator Vashti Harrison about That You Are Here Is No Small Thing. Todd says the title grew from her…
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Making Learning An Adventure
On this episode, host Jed Doherty welcomes two authors whose books help young readers explore ideas, build confidence, and discover the joy of learning. Vicki Scott Burns shares the inspiration behind her award-winning Charli books, including Charli's Turtle Triumph and Charli's Possum Park.…
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Sara Porritt on Parenting, Creativity, and Human Connection
On this episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed Doherty welcomes Sara Porritt, author, musician, and Chief Inclusion and Impact Officer at Omnicom Media. Sara shares how her picture book, Where Do You Go When You're Not With Me?, grew from her son missing her during the school day. The book helps...
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Space, Stories, and Social-Emotional Learning with Molly Harris and Jonathan Corby
Author Molly Harris and illustrator Jonathan Corby discuss their picture book, I Need Space, and their experience meeting for the first time after collaborating remotely. Harris explains that editors guide illustrator selection and that authors' notes should clarify the story without dictating...
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Celebrating Differences With Kaz Windness
Kaz Windness and Jim Roethe join Jed Doherty on Reading with Your Kids. Windness shares the inspiration behind Bitsy Bat Snow Star, the third book in a series about a bat who experiences winter for the first time. As Bitsy joins classmates in snowy activities, she becomes cold and uncomfortable…
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Turning Childhood Experiences into Stories of Courage and Wonder
On this episode of Reading with Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes two authors whose books help families explore big feelings and imaginative worlds. First, personal injury attorney Jason Plotkin shares the story behind his picture book The Pickle, the Patch, and the Puppy. Inspired by a dog…
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Jennifer Payne on Sounds of America and Finding a Place to Belong
Madison Lucchesi welcomes Jennifer Payne to discuss her picture book, Sounds of America, which follows a young Italian boy traveling from Naples to New York Harbor. Through the sounds he encounters, the story explores how children experience new places, community, safety, and belonging. Drawing…
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Prince Griff, a Hidden Dragon, and a Little Welsh Magic
Jed Doherty talks with British author-illustrator Briony May Smith about The Secret Dragon, set in medieval Wales. Prince Griff secretly raises a dragon hatched from an egg given to him by his aunt Morgana, hiding it from his mother, Queen Rhiannon, who is allergic to magical beasts. As the…
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The Same Moon, Twelve Zodiac Animals, and Stories That Bring Us Together
In this episode, host Jed Doherty welcomes three picture-book creators to discuss culture, creativity, and belonging. Author Teresa Robeson and illustrator Ping Zhu introduce Animals of the Chinese Zodiac: Meet Your Match. The book shares facts and personality traits for the twelve zodiac…
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Discovering Your Roots and Finding Your Rhythm
On this episode of Reading with Your Kids, guest host Madison Lucchesi welcomes author Teri Arvesú González to discuss The Stories We Inherit. What began as a letter to her son grew into a book honoring his graduation from Jesuit education and exploring nine generations of family history. Teri...
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Bringing Laughter to the World—and Ghosts to the Bayou
Reading With Yur Kids host Jed Doherty welcomes two guests to explore joy, storytelling, and place. First, Watson Kawecki, interim executive director of Clowns Without Borders, describes the organization's work bringing performances, connection, and laughter to communities facing difficult...
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Small Voices, Big Impact: Stories of Courage and Change
Jed Doherty welcomes authors Carmen Rubin and Leslee Flanagan to explore how picture books connect children with history, family, and the world around them. Historian Carmen Rubin shares the story behind A Night for the Rice Carriers, honoring Yaya and Panza, West African women who hid rice in...
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Drawing The Hundred Acre Wood
Joe Sutphin and Kevan Chandler joined host Jed Doherty to discuss creating their graphic novel adaptation of Winnie the Pooh. Joe explained that his earlier collaboration on Watership Down helped open the door to the project. He wanted Kevan as his writing partner, drawing on their close…
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Magic Marks & Ghost Armies: How Picture Books Build Brave Kids
In this episode, we celebrate two powerful picture books that help kids see their own strength, uniqueness, and courage. First, Jed chats with Dr. Tisha Shipley, educator and author of Writer's Magic Mark. Inspired by her nephew Ryder, who was born with a distinctive birthmark down his arm…
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Teaching Kids History & Civility with Keith Morgan and Kelly Garrett
On this episode, we have a long and intense conversation with Keith Morgan, author of the adult biography Ruta's Closet, which tells the powerful true story of one Jewish family's survival during the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Lithuania. Keith shares how the book—originally written for adults—has...
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Teaching Kids to Think Critically and Ask Questions
In this episode, Jed welcomes back Angela Santomero, beloved creator behind Blue's Clues, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, and now the Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things book and YouTube series. Angela shares how Princess Penelope's adventures are designed to build critical thinking...
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The Admiral of Adventure Meets The Brave Fuzzy
In this episode, we're celebrating two very special books that help families and kids explore big ideas—through story, science, and faith. First, Jennifer Swanson returns to talk about her new nonfiction Christmas book, "Unto Us a Child Is Born: A Family Celebration of Christmas" (Workman...
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Hyper Kids & Free Voices: Celebrating Energy, Empathy, and the First Amendment
In this uplifting episode of Reading with Your Kids, we're celebrating kids' energy, voices, and rights through two powerful picture books and conversations with their inspiring creators. First, guest host and Emerson College journalism student Madison Lucchesi talks with Ruth Fleury, author of...
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Executive Functioning, Parent Advocacy, and A Night of Madness
In this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, we're celebrating two very different – but beautifully connected – books that can spark powerful family conversations. First, Jed welcomes Denise Abdale, author of the back‑to‑school picture book "Jacob Gets Organized." Drawing on over 40…
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Body Image, Belonging, and Love Across Languages
In this inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes two wonderful guests whose picture books open the door to big, heartfelt family conversations. First, Jed chats with Erin Washington, author of I'm Just Like Me. Erin shares how her biracial, very tall 10‑year‑old...
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Joy, Funk & Family Secrets
This episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast is a joyful celebration of music, memory, and intergenerational connection, featuring two fantastic creators: Shadra Strickland and Celina Frenn. In the first half, Jed chats with Shadra about her vibrant new picture book, Here Comes the Band, a...
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Owl Capone & Spicy Nuggets: Big Feelings, Big Hearts
In this lively episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed celebrates two fantastic picture books that blend heart, humor, and big feelings. First up we celebrate "Owl Capone" with debut author Christy Ewers and illustrator Rob Sayegh Jr. Christy shares how a lifelong fascination with classic gangster...
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Mischief, Monsters, and Middle Graders: Celebrating Cryptid Stories with Adriana Cuevas
In this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes back award-winning author and teacher Adriana Cuevas to celebrate her spooky new middle grade novel, Mischief and Monsters. Adriana explains what cryptids are—creatures born from mythology, urban legends, and local lore—and…
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Mistakes, Magic, and Mystery: How Gareth P. Jones Writes Wildly Interactive Books
In this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes the wildly inventive Gareth P. Jones, author of the Solve Your Own Mystery series. Gareth shares how he writes his twisty, choice-filled mysteries without a strict plan, often discovering the solution right alongside his readers....
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Belonging, Not Blending In: Gina Casazza's Mission to Empower Young Readers
In this uplifting episode of Reading with Your Kids, Jed welcomes author and literacy advocate Gina Casazza, whose journey from struggling student to children's book creator will resonate with kids and grownups alike. Gina shares how everything changed in eighth grade when she read The Outsiders…
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Big Feelings, Pets, and Puerto Rican Flavor
In this warm and wide–ranging episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes back two guest authors whose books celebrate culture, compassion, and kids with big feelings. First, Jy de la Vega returns to share her new early reader graphic novel, "Annalise: The Special Dish." Inspired by her own...
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Lowrider Culture Meets Reading Culture: Two Powerful New Projects
Join Jed Doherty for a heartfelt, high-energy episode featuring two creators who are all about getting kids excited to read. First, Jed chats with Laura De La Cruz, author of the picture book Lowrider for Sale. Laura introduces us to Gabby, a determined eight-year-old devastated to find a "for...
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Dream Big With Shannon Hale Graphic Novels, Fear and Big Feelings
On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating two wonderful graphic novels—starting with a deep dive into Shannon Hale's new middle grade graphic novel Dream Big. Joining Jed from an Airbnb in Utah, Shannon talks about the beauty and diversity of the U.S., her travels to schools…
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Drawing Our Difficulties: David Soren on Turning Pain into Characters
In this heartfelt episode, Jed welcomes back filmmaker and author David Soren to celebrate Visible: The Sort of True Story of a Not So Hidden Disease, the powerful follow-up to his middle grade novel Invisible. Drawing from his own experience growing up with Crohn's disease, David shares how his...
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If Kids Are Having Fun They're Learning
In this heartfelt episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, Jed welcomes Daria, musician, teaching artist, and author of the joyful new picture book Cicada Sing Along. Drawing on decades of performing in schools, Daria and Jed celebrate the magic that happens when kids aren't just sitting…
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Curiosity, Donuts, and Magic Shoes: Leah Wolf Hearst On Growing Brave, Present Kids
In this episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, Jed welcomes two inspiring picture book creators who are helping families nurture curiosity, confidence, and connection. First, Jed chats with Leah Wolf Hurst, an occupational therapist, yoga teacher, personal trainer, ergonomist, and...
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Trees, Tales and Armadillos: Nuturing Cultural Curiosity And Courage
In this lively episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes two wonderful guests whose picture books help kids feel seen, brave, and deeply connected to the world around them. First, Jed chats with Jalpa Vaidya Patel, licensed social worker and author of "Wizzy: The Worldly Tree: A...
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Skeletor In Therapy! And Other Ways To Hook Reluctant Readers
In this fun, fast-moving episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're heading to Eternia—by way of your family's favorite reading chair. Jed welcomes syndicated cartoonists Stephan Pastis and Will Henry to celebrate their hilarious new illustrated middle grade novel, The Adventures of He‑Man and…
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Escape, Grief and Growth. How Stories Help Kids & Teens Cope
On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes two sets of guests whose books highlight just how powerful stories can be—for thrills, for connection, and for healing. First, Jed chats with Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss, co-authors of the YA murder mystery The Escape Game. Set on a…
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Hope in Messy Mourning: Jackie Baker's Journey After Her Son's Suicide
In this powerful episode, Jed Doherty welcomes Jackie Baker, author of Messy Mourning: Hope for Mothers Grieving the Loss of a Child to Suicide. Jackie shares the heartbreaking story of her firstborn, Sebastian—a bright, curious, book-loving boy who grew up in a home where reading, faith, and...
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Dragons, Ghosts, and Librarians: Haley Neil Takes Us Inside Greta Grimsdark
In this joyful episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes librarian and debut middle grade author Haley Neil to celebrate her spooky-silly new book, Greta Grimsdark and the Normal New Neighbor. Haley shares stories from her work in the library, where she spends her days covered in slime,...
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From Bangkok Shanties To YA Graphic Novels
In this inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes Renee Nault from Vancouver Island to celebrate her YA romance graphic novel Salvage. Set in a future reshaped by climate change, Salvage follows Paulo, a teen who lives on the tidal flats scavenging from drowned cities....
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The Beginner's Guide To Wonder: Magic, Puerto Rico & Picture Books
Join host Jed Doherty for a joyful, imagination-filled episode featuring two wonderful picture book creators: Keith Negley, author-illustrator of "The Beginner's Guide to Being a Wizard," and Wanda Arlene Barajas, author of "Carina and Sabi: A Journey to the Heart of Cidra." In the first half,...
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Tours, Turkeys, and Tiny Towns
In this heartwarming episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, Jed welcomes author Sara Amini and illustrator Juana Medina to celebrate their beautiful new picture book, "Luisa at Your Service." Inspired by Sara's mother's childhood in the small Colombian town of Salento, the story follows...
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A Love Letter To Libraries
In this inspiring episode, Jed welcomes Julie Abe, author of the cozy middle grade fantasy The Magic Library of Waterfall Way. Julie shares her 15-year journey to publication, reflecting on the countless rejections that almost made her give up—and how those "no's" eventually inspired the...
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Beyond the Uniform: Veterans Turn Their Stories into Hope-Filled Kids' Books
In this inspiring two-part episode, we celebrate how stories, service, and family reading can shape kids' character and courage. First, Jed welcomes Mark Fava, former naval flight officer, longtime Navy Reservist, and aerospace executive, to talk about his debut picture book "Andy the Admiral and...
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Horses, Trains & Brave Kids, New Adventures In Kids' Books
In this warm and wide–ranging episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes back three beloved guests with brand–new picture books that celebrate courage, representation, and creativity. First, Kelly Starling Lyons returns to share Writing Magic, a tender story about Dom, a little girl from a...
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From Birthday Triplets to Greenback the Dog: Raising Kind, Informed Kids
In this episode, Jed welcomes back author and educator Kelly Tooman to celebrate her new picture book, "The Birthday Triplets and the Pony Race Adventure." Kelly, who spent many years in Montessori education and now leads virtual creative writing workshops, shares how her background shaped this...
About this show
Reading With Your Kids is all about encouraging parents to read with their kids, and cook with their kids, and do activities with their kids, and experience tv, movies and music together. In other words, our podcast is all about helping parents build stronger relationships with their kids.
Hosted by
Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc