Encore: Jesse Byrd on Why Storytelling Matters for Children | Creativity, Confidence & Connection

What I Want to Know, with Kevin P. Chavous

This is an encore episode of What I Want to Know, revisiting one of our most impactful conversations on the power of storytelling. Storytelling isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a crucial tool for learning, connection, and confidence-building in children.

In this episode, host Kevin P. Chavous sits down with award-winning children's book author and NPR Foundation board member Jesse Byrd to discuss how storytelling shapes young minds, promotes literacy, and empowers kids to see themselves in the stories they read.

🎙 In This Episode: ✔️ How storytelling fuels language and cognitive development ✔️ The journey from a tech career at Google to writing for children ✔️ Overcoming rejection and breaking into publishing ✔️ The need for diverse representation in children's books ✔️ Teaching kids to think critically about the stories they consume ✔️ The role of storytelling in social media and digital literacy ✔️ Navigating book bans and challenges in education

📚 Guest Spotlight: Jesse Byrd Jesse is a celebrated children's book author, publisher, and advocate for inclusive storytelling. He has read to over 25,000 kids and worked with Airbnb Experiences to bring virtual storytime to families and corporations. His mission? Making sure every child sees themselves reflected in literature.

🔗 Resources & Links: 👉 Learn more about Jesse Byrd: [Website / Socials] 👉 Explore Stride Learning: https://www.stridelearning.com 👉 Follow Kevin P. Chavous on social: #WIWTK

📢 Join the Conversation: How has storytelling impacted your life? Comment below or share your thoughts using #WIWTK on social media!

🚀 If you found this episode valuable, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring discussion. Let’s keep learning, together! 🔥

—------------------------------------------------ Preparing your child for a successful future? K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their educational journey.

Enrollment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. Key features include:

State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction

Innovative curriculum

Extensive family support

K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed

Accredited program offering engaging classes for all learner levels, including advanced students and those with special needs

More family time and engaging class connects

Opportunity for your child to thrive academically

Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podca...

—-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Now Streaming:

Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/5KkzBkz...

Google Podcasts – https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/013…

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

💬 Join the conversation & leave a review! 📌 Twitter/X: https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast📌 Facebook: https://facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 📌 Instagram: https://instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast