Essential Mental Healing is a podcast geared towards promoting mental health healing, motivation, and healthy ways to deal with problems around the topic. We will explore different avenues of mental health including but not limited to therapy, trauma healing, beliefs, anxiety, depression, parenting, holistic healing, disparities in communities and mental health and so much more. We will have fun and laugh and get deep and cry but we will do it in love while discussing our journey and others ...
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"Not every book is for every child, but for every child there is a book." The Children’s Book Review, is a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. In the Growing Readers Podcast, we produce author and illustrator interviews focused on the best books for kids of all ages. We help parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and librarians to grow readers.
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Talking Fashion is your front-row seat to the rising generation shaping the fashion industry. Hosted by Georgia Makely, this podcast goes beyond the runway, bringing you candid conversations with the designers, stylists, editors, photographers and influencers & more redefining style today. From behind-the-scenes insights to the cultural shifts transforming fashion, Talking Fashion is where industry insiders and fashion hopefuls meet. Expect engaging, unfiltered discussions on creativity, bus ...
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The Traumatologist Who Lost Everything with Sylvia Moore Myers
1:10:55
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1:10:55Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday! What happens when life breaks you completely? After losing her teenage son to a violent crime and surviving an attack by a serial killer just months later, Sylvia Moore Myers discovered a profound truth that transformed her understanding of trauma: we aren't designed to heal—we're designed to scar. This realiza…
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When You Find a Hope: How Allie Millington Turned Rejection into Art
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31:47In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Allie Millington about her picture book When You Find a Hope. They discuss Millington's unique brain drain morning practice, her long journey to publication, and how her own experiences with rejection and perseverance directly inspired this heartfelt story about h…
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From Homelessness to Homeownership, From Air Force to Real Estate: Sean Lax's Journey
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53:32
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53:32Send us a text What would our lives look like if we had learned financial literacy from an early age? Sean Lax, who joined us on Essential Mental Healing, answers this question through his remarkable journey from childhood homelessness to successful real estate agent. Sean's story begins in suburban St. Louis where his family embodied the American …
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Talking Alchemy, Design & Self-Expression with Gigi Goode
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1:02:37Designer, model, and television personality Gigi Goode joins Georgia on Talking Fashion for a conversation about creativity, craftsmanship, and carving out a unique place in the fashion world. Gigi shares the inspiration behind her new collection Alchemy, her evolution from RuPaul’s Drag Race breakout star to a rising force in design, and how model…
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Talking Fashion Influence & Going Viral with Jake Fleming
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57:46Fashion creator, personality, and Lait co-founder Jake Fleming joins Georgia on Talking Fashion for a conversation about internet fame, creative identity, and what it really means to go viral. Known for his playful approach to fashion and unmistakable online presence, Jake reflects on the surreal moments that have come with global recognition, the …
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Imagining Yoko Ono: Lisa Tolin on Bringing a Misunderstood Artist to Young Readers
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40:35In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews author Lisa Tolin about her picture book biography Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono. They discuss Tolin's creative process, her admiration for Yoko Ono's resilience and artistry, and how she approached introducing conceptual art to young readers. Transcript…
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Nothing Under the Sun Is New, But Our Response Can Be
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1:02:01Send us a text Have you ever noticed how life seems to move in cycles? That's because there truly is nothing new under the sun. In this soul-nourishing conversation, Janet and Candace explore how ancient patterns repeat throughout our lives while revealing that our unique power lies in how we respond to these timeless challenges. Janet shares her j…
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Talking Fashion History, Costume Accuracy & Old Hollywood Glamour with Raissa Bretaña
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1:00:11Fashion historian, educator, and author Raissa Bretana joins Georgia on Talking Fashion for a glamorous, detail-rich conversation on the intersection of costume, history, and storytelling. Known for her sharp eye and deep knowledge of historical dress, Raissa discusses the art and nuance of costume accuracy in film, her debut novel Moxie, and her l…
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Rebellion, Revolution, and Writing: Laurie Halse Anderson on Historical Fiction
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58:14In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging st…
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Talking Representation, Cultural Influence & Storytelling in Fashion with Christian Allaire
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43:35Fashion & Style Writer at Vogue and author of From the Rez to the Runway, Christian Allaire joins Georgia onTalking Fashion for a dynamic conversation about identity, representation, and the changing face of fashion storytelling. As a writer known for celebrating underrepresented voices and pushing for more inclusivity in the industry, Christian sh…
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The Autism Voyage: Finding Peace in Acceptance From Denial to Financial Planning with Michael Pereira
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56:00Send us a text Michael Pereira's journey from corporate traveler to autism advocate began when his son Christian started showing developmental concerns around his first birthday. Like many parents, Michael and his wife initially struggled with denial – a phase he now recognizes was rooted in focusing on their own feelings rather than their child's …
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Talking Social Strategy, Branding & Navigating the Fashion Industry with Candace Marie
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55:31Social strategist, consultant, digital tastemaker, and adjunct professor Candace Marie joins Georgia on Talking Fashion for an in-depth look at the evolving relationship between fashion and digital media. As the founder of Black in Corporate and a leader in social strategy, Candace shares her insights on how brands can build meaningful connections …
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Finding Your Beat: Dusti Bowling on Connor's Journey with Tourette's in 'The Beat I Drum'
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57:17In this engaging episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, award-winning author Dusti Bowling shares her journey from a struggling reader to acclaimed writer, revealing how these experiences shape her characters. She discusses her latest novel, The Beat I Drum, which follows Connor Bradley—a teen with Tourette syndrome—drawing on her family's persona…
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Relationship Fuel Tanks: Is Yours Running on Empty? Explore w/ Tannaz Hosseinpour
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1:02:19Send us a text Tired of failed relationships? You might be asking one person to fill too many intimacy needs. In this deeply thoughtful episode, relationship expert Tannaz shares her transformative concept of the six intimacy tanks we all have: physical (non-sexual touch), sexual, emotional, experiential, intellectual, and spiritual connection. Ins…
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Talking Trend Forecasting, Commentating & Influencing with Mandy Lee
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59:38Fashion analyst and trend forecaster Mandy Lee, aka Old Loser in Brooklyn, joins Georgia on Talking Fashion for a sharp, unfiltered conversation on the state of fashion commentary today. They discuss whether true objectivity exists in fashion journalism, the rise of independent commentators shaping industry narratives, and Mandy’s viral 75 Hard Sty…
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Talking Designing For The Met Gala and More with Tanner Fletcher
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49:44Tanner Richie and Fletcher Kasell of Tanner Fletcher join Georgia on Talking Fashion for a conversation on redefining modern nostalgia through their genderless designs. They dive into the inspirations behind their collections, from vintage interiors to 1950's influences, and share the creative risks that have shaped their brand’s rise in the New Yo…
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Beauty, Gardening, and Rhyme: A Conversation with Janna Matthies
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34:53Join us for a delightful conversation with author and music teacher Janna Matthies as she shares the inspiration behind her new picture book, Over in the Garden. Discover how Janna's musical background, love of nature, and teaching experience beautifully converge in this counting book that celebrates community gardening. From adapting the folk song…
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Talking Life as an Editor with Tara Gonzalez
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49:50Fashion editor and Cult Classic writer Tara Gonzalez joins Georgia on Talking Fashion's debut episode for a deep dive into the future of publishing in a rapidly evolving industry. They talk about her career journey, the best insider stories she's picked up along the way, and of course, her impossibly chic pug, Bjork. From the shifting role of fashi…
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Screen Time Soul Food: Are Your Viewing Choices Nourishing You?
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57:22
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57:22Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday Your screen time is shaping you in ways you might not realize. Every show, movie, and social media scroll leaves an imprint on your mind, influencing everything from your daily thoughts to how you interact with others. Candace and Janet take us on a revealing journey through their personal media consumption habi…
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Understanding Home in a Changing World: A Conversation with Matt de la Peña and Loren Long
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57:31In this heartwarming episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca Schulze welcomes Newbery Medal-winning author Matt de la Peña and bestselling illustrator Loren Long to discuss their new collaboration, Home. Building on the success of their #1 New York Times bestseller Love, the creators share intimate memories of their own childhoods and explor…
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Unraveling Mysteries with Candace Fleming: The Loch Ness Monster, Critical Thinking, and the Magic of Nonfiction for Kids
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41:23In this engaging conversation, Bianca Schulze interviews Candace Fleming about her journey as a nonfiction writer, the allure of nonfiction for young readers, and her latest book on the Loch Ness Monster, Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster. They discuss the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and the balance between entertainment and educati…
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“You Are Worthy”: Tackling Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt
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54:07Send us a text Dive into a heartfelt conversation that tackles the complex emotions surrounding imposter syndrome and the often-hidden feelings of inadequacy we carry with us. In this episode, we peel back the layers of self-doubt and explore how our upbringing, societal expectations, and personal narratives shape our perception of worthiness. Jane…
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In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, Megan E. Freeman takes us on a journey through her creative process and the powerful stories behind her novels ALONE and AWAY. From discovering swimming as an unexpected source of inspiration to transforming ALONE from prose to verse, Megan shares the evolution of her craft and her deep connection to …
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Embracing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Spirituality, and the Magic of Everyday Moments with Misty Bell Stiers
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1:09:28Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday Sipping our morning coffee, we invited the enchanting Misty Bell Stiers, an artist, storyteller, and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, to share her inspiring journey. As a creative director and author, Misty sprinkles a touch of magic into her mission to create systemic change. Our conversation danc…
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Consistency While Working Through Challenges and Changes
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44:43
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44:43Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday!! When life throws a curveball, how do you respond? Join me, Candace Patrice, and my wonderful mother, Janet Hale, as we navigate the rollercoaster of family life when illness hits home. Despite my crazy schedule, there was no question about being there for my mom, reminding us of the power of familial bonds and…
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Behind the Scenes of Graphic Novels with John Patrick Green
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53:05
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53:05In this episode of the Growing Readers podcast, John Patrick Green shares insights into his creative process, journey from artist to bestselling graphic novelist, and the collaborative nature of graphic novel creation. He discusses how his love for storytelling and humor drives his work, aiming to make kids laugh while also engaging adult readers w…
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Creating Inclusive Literature for Kids with Jolene Gutiérrez, Author of Mamiachi and Me
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40:46Join teacher-librarian and children's book author Jolene Gutiérrez as she discusses collaborating with her son Dakota on their new picture book Mamiachi and Me, a joyful celebration of mariachi music and family tradition. Learn how a misheard word sparked a story about an all-female mariachi band and a young girl finding the courage to perform. Jol…
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Breaking Free: Judy Larson's Journey From Near Death at 4 to High Vibration Self Awareness
1:07:04
1:07:04
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1:07:04Send us a text Ever felt trapped in your life's circumstances, unsure how to break free? Our special guest, Judy Larson, shares her profound journey from feeling out of place in her own family to navigating the pressures of adulthood. Facing a marriage to an alcoholic and the shadow of her father's struggles, Judy battled low self-esteem and depres…
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Living Free: Living Life Should Not Be A Job
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53:15
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53:15Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday! We explore the transformative power of decluttering both physical and mental spaces and how they create room for new opportunities and joy. By integrating love and reciprocity into our daily lives, we redefine work as a fulfilling expression of our true selves. - Discusses the importance of maintaining a declut…
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Unlocking the Secrets of a Curious Mind "The Mind FCK" Way With Amazing Soul
57:16
57:16
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57:16Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday!! Amazing Soul's journey of healing will inspire anyone feeling trapped by their own pain. After two decades of crippling lower back pain, she discovered a transformative path of introspection that changed everything. By embracing her pain as a teacher, she uncovered her purpose through a deep understanding of p…
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Celebrating 10 Years of The Princess in Black: A Conversation with Shannon Hale, Dean Hale, and LeUyen Pham
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58:30
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58:30Join creators Shannon Hale and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham as they celebrate 10 years of The Princess in Black series. Discover how a child's simple observation that "princesses don't wear black" inspired a revolutionary series that bridges early readers to chapter books. The trio shares behind-the-scenes stories of their creative process…
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From Nursing to Counseling: A Holistic Path with Denise Schonwald
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55:31Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday!! Discover the transformative journey of Denise Schonwald, a former critical care nurse turned licensed mental health counselor, as she integrates the worlds of mental and physical health. Her inspiring narrative, alongside insights from her children's book "Getting Back to Happy," reveals the profound connectio…
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Meredith Seacrest Leach on 'The Make Believers': Fostering Imagination Through Storytelling and Sibling Collaboration
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23:33Join us as Meredith Seacrest Leach discusses her debut picture book "The Make Believers," co-written with her brother Ryan Seacrest. In this heartwarming conversation, Meredith shares how her daughter's boundless imagination and her work with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation inspired this celebration of creative play. She reveals how the book's message…
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Embracing Love and Growth: A Journey of Self-Reflection and Gratitude
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52:40Send us a text Therapy Thursday!! After a summer of soul-searching and self-care, Janet Hale, our beloved "hippie mama," returns to kick off Season Four of Essential Mental Healing with a heartwarming and honest reflection on mental health. Imagine the profound impact of a child's wisdom when Janet's daughter gently nudges her to confront her strug…
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Mac Barnett on Flipping Santa's Story: Santa's First Christmas
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32:12Award-winning children's author Mac Barnett joins us to discuss his heartwarming new picture book Santa's First Christmas, beautifully illustrated by Sydney Smith. In this fresh take on holiday storytelling, Santa experiences the magic of Christmas Day for the very first time, thanks to his thoughtful elves. Mac shares insights into the creative pr…
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Sophie and the Swans: Holly Peppe on Kindness, Bullying, and the Power of Children's Literature
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33:46In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with author Holly Peppe to discuss her children's book, Sophie and the Swans. Peppe shares her experiences as a teacher and writer, her insights on addressing bullying, and her reflections on the power of kindness in children's literature. Listeners will gain insight into…
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Dancing Through Darkness: Dr. Edith Eger's Journey from Auschwitz to Inspiration
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35:27In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with Holocaust survivor and renowned psychologist Dr. Edith Eger to discuss her young adult memoir, The Ballerina of Auschwitz. Dr. Eger, joined by her grandson Jordan Engle, shares her experiences, insights, and reflections on survival, healing, and the power of choice, …
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Doors to Other Worlds: Kate DiCamillo Explores Connection Through Storytelling
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57:10
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57:10In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with beloved author Kate DiCamillo to discuss her latest works, including the early reader trilogy beginning with Orris and Timble: The Beginning and the second book in The Norendy Tales, The Hotel Balzaar. Kate shares her creative process, inspirations, and reflections o…
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Louder Than Hunger: John Schu on Writing, Healing, and Hope
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1:02:20In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with acclaimed author John Schu to discuss his powerful novel in verse, Louder Than Hunger. John shares his deeply personal journey of transforming his own experiences with anorexia nervosa, depression, and anxiety into Jake's story, offering insight into the creative pro…
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Always Look for Wonder: Loren Long on Creativity and The Yellow Bus
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1:01:56In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author and illustrator Loren Long to discuss his latest book, The Yellow Bus. Loren shares his unique approach to crafting this touching story, including his inspiration from a real abandoned bus, his process of creating a 3D model for illust…
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Mining for the Heart of History: Beth Anderson on Thomas Jefferson, Critical Thinking, and Crafting Engaging Nonfiction
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49:54In this episode of The Growing Readers podcast, host Bianca Schulze sits down with award-winning children's author Beth Anderson to discuss her latest book, Thomas Jefferson's Battle for Science: Bias, Truth, and a Mighty Moose. Beth shares her unique approach to crafting engaging nonfiction, including her process of "mining for the heart of the st…
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Saturday Magic: Celebrating Ancestral Wisdom and Black Spirituality in Children's Literature with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill
1:10:48
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1:10:48Join us for an enlightening conversation with Nyasha Williams and Kenda Bell-Spruill, co-authors of Saturday Magic: A Hoodoo Story (Running Press Kids). This mother-in-love and daughter-in-love duo discuss their collaboration on this groundbreaking picture book that introduces young readers to African diasporic spiritual practices and ancestral con…
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Finding Beauty in Imperfection: Matt de la Peña on 'The Perfect Place
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38:39Award-winning author Matt de la Peña discusses his new picture book, The Perfect Place, exploring themes of class, self-acceptance, and the meaning of home. Matt shares personal inspirations, reads from the book, and reflects on how the story resonates with readers of all ages. Join us for an insightful conversation about finding beauty in imperfec…
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Cultivating Culinary Curiosity: Priya Krishna on Raising Kids Who Love Global Flavors
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34:36Join us for a flavorful conversation with New York Times food reporter Priya Krishna as she dishes on her new cookbook, Priya's Kitchen Adventures: A Cookbook for Kids. Discover how Priya's globe-trotting childhood inspired a passion for diverse cuisines, and learn why exposing children to a world of flavors is about more than just good eating. Fro…
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Soaring Imaginations: Exploring the Skyriders Series with Polly Holyoke
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57:24In this inspiring episode, award-winning children's author Polly Holyoke joins us to discuss her enchanting middle-grade fantasy series, Skyriders. Polly shares her insights on the power of storytelling to ignite imaginations and empower young readers to believe in their ability to make a difference. From her creative process in building immersive …
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Art, Science, and the Sea: Jeanne Walker Harvey On Else Bostelmann's Extraordinary Life
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43:40In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and author Jeanne Walker Harvey dive into the inspiring story of Else Bostelmann, the artist who courageously painted the wonders of the deep sea in the 1930s. Harvey shares insights from her new picture book biography Elsae B. In the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the D…
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Talking to Kids About Their Bodies: A Conversation with Sex Educator and Author Dorian Solot
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34:01In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca Schulze and sexuality educator Dorian Solot discuss Solot's new Learning About Bodies children's books. Solot shares insights on providing kids with accurate, age-appropriate information about their bodies and the challenges of creating sensitive content. The books cover topics like proper…
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Finding Solace: Music as a Pathway to Healing with Heather Hill
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53:23Send us a text Therapy Thursday! What if music could be your sanctuary in the storm of life? Join us as we uncover the transformative journey of Heather Hill, a singer-songwriter from the Blue Mountains of Canada. Heather opens up about her transition from a corporate career back to her true passion for music, all while balancing the demands of mot…
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Healing Dialogues on Family, Spirituality, and Queer Inclusivity with Ann Russo
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1:02:45Send us a text It's Therapy Thursday! When the path of self-discovery intersects with the embrace of one's true identity, the journey can be transformative. That's a truth our guest, Ann Russo, knows well as a psychotherapist and advocate for culturally affirming care. Together with the heartening presence of Janet Hale, we traverse the tender terr…
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The Power of Pets, Place, and Personal Experience: Lauren Castillo on the Inspirations Behind 'Just Like Millie'
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49:08In this heartfelt episode, award-winning author and illustrator Lauren Castillo shares the personal experiences and meaningful inspirations behind her latest picture book, Just Like Millie. Castillo opens up about how her own childhood, hometown, and beloved pets influenced the story of a shy young girl who finds courage and connection through her …
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