Send us a text

Discover the enchanting world of children's book illustration with Stephen Macquignon, as we explore unexpected connections between scientific thinking, whimsy, and transitioning from comics and animation to crafting magical picture books with watercolor and pencil. Join us for a journey that blends creativity, connection, and the delightful adventures of Oliver the Octopus.

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Diane invites listeners to explore the whimsical journey of Stephen Macquignon, a celebrated children's book illustrator. From his early aspirations in comic book art to illustrating over eleven captivating picture books, Stephen shares his love for traditional art tools amidst a digital world. Gain insight into his creative process and hear about his latest project featuring Oliver, an adventurous octopus with a charming tale.

Together, we discuss the parallels between art and science, emphasizing the joys of experimentation and revision. We share anecdotes about the late great Tomie dePaola and explore the many ways no one works in a vacuum. This episode celebrates the power of connection, creativity, and shared joy through art.

Timestamps:

• 0:00:03: Adventures in Learning with Stephen Macquignon
• 0:04:48: Putting the whimsy in whimsical illustrations
• 0:07:29: Debts of gratitude to Tomie dePaola
• 0:11:22:   No one works in a vacuum
• 0:14:31:  Connecting the Creative Process to STEM Thinking and Play
• 0:19:47:  A Question of Hope

Links:

• Stephen Mcquignon's Website
• Follow Stephen on Instagram and LinkedIn

#ChildrensBooks #Illustration #StephenMacquignon, #OliverTheOctopus #ArtisticJourney #TraditionalArt #Podcast #Creativity #Connection #WatercolorArt #PictureBooks #ComicsToBooks #ArtAndScience #PlayfulResearch #FamilyConnections #DrDianePodcast #EmpathyInAction #LearningThroughPlay #AdventuresinLearning

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

In a world dominated by screens, algorithms, and the buzz of artificial intelligence, how do we reconnect with our humanity and nuture creativity, connection, critical thinking, and collaboration? This week, speaker, writer, and coach Jane Newman drops by the Adventures in Learning podcast to help us unpack the profound challenges and opportunities at the intersection of technology, AI, and humanity. 

Summary

In this episode, we explore the intricate challenges posed by technology and AI in our modern world. Jane Newman shares her journey from being inspired by her innovative father in Australia to carving out a trailblazing career in technology to recognizing the need for empathy and human connection in all aspects of our lives. 

Chapters:

0:01:03 - Rehumanizing Life in the Digital Age 

10:50 -- Helping Kids Form Human Connections

0:12:32 - Adventures in Learning and Technology 

0:22:41 - Rehumanizing Strategies

Guest Links

Jane Newman's Big Talk 

Jane Newman's Oxford Talk 

Jane's Website

Follow Jane on Instagram and LinkedIn

Connect with Us

Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and BlueSky for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Call to Action

Inspired by Jane's insights? Share this episode with fellow parents, caregivers, librarians, and educators to spark meaningful conversations about reclaiming humanity in a digital world. Don't forget to leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover the show!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Just in time for Veterans Day, meet a mother-daughter writing team focused on publishing books that help children understand freedom, sacrifice, and the challenges of deployment. In the latest episode of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane interviews Beverly and Alyssa Samuel, a mother-daughter writing team behind the children's series Make New Friends. With an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the books encourage children to embrace differences and form connections. 

Their latest book, Make New Friends: Red, White, & Blue, is a perfect read aloud for Veteran's Day with its focus on military families and the value of teamwork. The interview delves into the authors' backgrounds and inspirations, uncovering personal stories that shaped the narrative. As they promote acceptance and empathy, the Samuels emphasize the importance of teaching young generations to appreciate varied cultures and abilities. 

Chapters:

01:03:Fostering Inclusion Through Children's Books 

16:56:Empowering Children and Teaching Empathy Through Inclusive Stories 

18:03:Insights into the co-writing and self-publishing process

25:00:Power of Hope

Links:

Visit Beverly and Alyssa's Website for More Information

Purchase Make New Friends, Make New Friends: Red, White, & Blue

Follow @makenewfriendsbook on Instagram

Explore our previous episodes for more insights on education, empathy, diversity, and inclusivity.

Join us in celebrating the magic of children's literature and its power to create a more empathetic and inclusive world. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Step into Books of Wonder, a New York City bookstore where every reader has a story. This iconic bookstore has sparked joy in young readers for 45 years. It inspired the Tom Hanks/Meg Ryan film You've Got Mail. In this conversation with founder Peter Glassman, we explore how Books of Wonder became a cherished destination for children's literature enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant community that celebrates the art of storytelling. Just in time for the holidays, Peter provides book recommendations sure to spark joy in readers of all ages.

Chapters:

00:40:  Origin 

Learn about Peter's lifelong love for books and how his bookstore became a staple in New York's literary landscape.

05:37:  Evolution

Discover how Books of Wonder transformed into a hub for authors, illustrators, and readers.

13:52:  Secret Sauce 

The staff shares a passion for helping kids connect to books. Explore strategies for fostering a love of reading.

18:40:  Power

Explore how diverse literature helps foster empathy and imagination. 

24:54 Peter's Holiday Book Recommendations 

Just in time for the holidays, Peter shares some of his favorite new releases. 

• The Experiment (Rebecca Stead)
• The Invisible Parade (Leigh Bardugo/John Picacio)
• Snoop (Gordon Korman)
• The Incorruptibles (Laura Magaziner)
• The Library of Unruly Treasures (Jeanne Birdsall)
• Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Book of Anansi (Angie Thomas)
• Extraordinary Quests for Amateur Witches (Kayla Cottingham)
• The Last Tiger (Brad Riew/Julie Riew)

0:36:11 Finding Hope In Dark Times

Links

• Books of Wonder webpage
• Follow Books of Wonder on Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Join us on a thrilling spooky adventure as we sit down with J.A. Dauber, the creative force behind the new middle grade novel Press One for Invasion. Discover the intriguing world where a mysterious cell phone unlocks unexpected alien encounters and a mad adventure to save the world from destruction!

In this spooky season episode, we dive into Jeremy Dauber's Press One for Invasion, a middle-grade novel that brings spooky (and relatable) adventures roaring to life. We discuss the pairing of Matt, a young boy who discovers a cell phone revealing aliens in disguise, with dynamic female characters, such as Marcella and Mrs. McGillicuddy. Jeremy shares insights on relatable heroes, diversity, and the joy of reading, drawing inspiration from timeless series like Ramona. Jeremy is also the author of American Scary: A History of Horror from Salem to Stephen King and Beyond -- and we dive into a little haunting history as well.

Timestamps:

(0:00:03) - Meet J.A. Dauber (Jeremy) and his latest book, Press One for Invasion

(0:07:41) - Creating relatable protagonists without superpowers

(0:10:00) - What do Ramona Quimby and Stephen King have in common?

(0:19:01) - Finding Hope in Children's Enthusiasm

Links:

Purchase Press One for Invasion, Mayhem and Madness: Chronicles of a Teenaged Supervillain, and American Scary: A History of Horror from Salem to Stephen King and Beyond

Follow J.A. Dauber on Bluesky

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered what it takes to go from being a nature-loving Midwesterner to a pivotal figure in wildlife law enforcement? Discover how Tim Santel's unique career path led him to fight against big cat trafficking and rhino and elephant poaching as he become a champion for wildlife conservation.

Episode Summary: 

This episode is personal for me. I recently returned from a conservation trip with CBCC and Wild Tomorrow where the enormity of poaching, as well as the inspiring stories of the many, many people working to make the planet a better place had a huge impact on me. On Episode 157, we sit down with Tim Santel from Focused Conservation. Tim shares his remarkable journey from his Midwestern roots to becoming an undercover agent dedicated to combating wildlife trafficking. Through captivating stories like the adrenaline-pumping Operation Snowplow and Operation Crash, Tim offers insights into the challenges and triumphs of dismantling animal trafficking networks. 

We also discuss diverse career paths in wildlife conservation available to today's students, focusing on the power of education, storytelling, and persistence. This episode is packed with guidance for aspiring conservationists and inspires hope for the future, encouraging the next generation to follow in the footsteps of icons like Diane Fossey and Jane Goodall. 

Timestamps & Chapter Titles:

00:02:39: Tim Santel's Wildlife Conservation Origin Story

00:12:23:What does a wildlife inspector/special agent do?

00:23:34:Undercover Helping Wildlife

00:35:55:Wildlife Trafficking Fueling Impactful Conservation

00:49:45:Using Your Voice to Build Awareness, Impact, and Influence to Protect Wildlife

00:51:26:Exploring Wildlife Conservation Career Paths 

01:02:54:Inspiring Hope through Conservation with the Next Wildlife Heroes 

Links:

Focused Conservation

Wild Tomorrow

CBCC

Zululand Conservation Trust

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

How do we shape tomorrow's social justice champions today! Join us as Dr. Shelby Kretz, founder of Little Justice Leaders, reveals how empathy, storytelling, and education can ignite the transformative power of young voices in a divided world. Don't miss this chance to be inspired by the leaders of tomorrow, today.

Summary: 

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Shelby Kretz, founder of Little Justice Leaders. We delve into the crucial role of social justice education in creating a just and equitable society. Dr. Kretz shares her journey from studying psychology at Ohio State to earning a PhD in urban education from UCLA. Her passion led to the creation of an collaborative initiative that equips educators and parents to engage young minds in discussions about diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. Through empathy, storytelling, and playfulness, Dr. Kretz reveals how young people are driving social change today, standing as beacons of hope for a brighter future. We also explore the challenges of creating accessible social justice content in a complex political climate, emphasizing the importance of true collaboration with diverse content creators, self-care for overwhelmed citizens and advocates, and the inspiring role of youth in leadership.

Chapters with Timestamps:

00:44 - Shelby Katz's Origin Story and Little Justice Leaders' Mission 

03:17 - It Takes a Diverse Team To Put Out Compelling Content

06:04 - Connecting to Children's Books to Deepen Diverse Understanding

08:58 - Calling In and Calling Out: Creating Communities of Openness and Learning

11:57 - Harnessing Empathy and Play in Social Justice Learning

14:26 - Breaking News: Responding to Current Events vs Planned Content

0:18:09 - Being Intentional When Overwhelmed and Facing Challenges

0:21:19 - Finding Hope in Youth Leading Social Change 

Links:

Little Justice Leaders Website

Little Justice Leaders Instagram

For more information and resources, don't forget to check out the links in our show notes. Stay inspired and keep empowering the next generation of little justice leaders!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Imagine...

Imagine stepping into a space where learning is a magical journey, igniting curiosity and wonder. Picture students engaging with the material in a way that lights a spark. And this engagement isn't limited to the classroom -- it's available to people from all walks of life. This is the world Steve Spangler envisions in his groundbreaking book, The Engagement Effect. Join us as we explore how the right mix of curiosity, trust, and unforgettable experiences can spark a chain reaction of engagement that transforms how we lead, teach, and connect.

Podcast Summary: 

We welcome back Steve Spangler, affectionately known as America's science teacher, as he shares insights from his new book, The Engagement Effect. Through anecdotes that include barfing pumpkins and fiery gummy bears, Steve illustrates the profound impact of engagement and connection in learning. We explore how these principles extend beyond classrooms into boardrooms, emphasizing the importance of authentic engagement in any setting.

Chapters:

• 01:31: What IS The Engagement Effect? 
• 10:46: Turning a "Best Day Ever" Experience into Something More
• 17:57:   Using Engagement To Help Cultivate Experiences That Learners Own
• 22:02:  Exploring the Engagement Effect as a Tool for Next-Level Connection
• 28:48:  Tools and Techniques for Building Genuine Connection
• 34:24: Pulling Back the Curtain on Engagement in Business and Social Media
• 37:51:The Magic of Engagement 

Links:

• Pre-order The Engagement Effect
• Join the Online Book Club in November: [email [email protected] for details]
• Follow Steve Spangler on Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
• Learn more about Science in the Rockies
• Listen to Steve Spangler on Episode 19 of the Adventures in Learning podcast.

Join us on this journey of discovery and learn how to transform your approach to education and leadership with The Engagement Effect.  Whether you're an educator, a leader, or simply curious about the power of connection, this episode is sure to inspire new ways of thinking.

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Join us on a transformative journey with Dr. Cara Furman as we delve into the heart of early childhood education, exploring how empathy and ethics shape young minds.

In this episode, Dr. Diane discusses the profound impact of connecting the dots between empathy and engaged learning with Dr. Cara Furman, a leading figure in early education and teaching from an ethical center. We explore how educators can maintain their core values in dynamic classroom environments through practical wisdom and empathy. With thematic curriculum integration and the power of diverse children's literature, we highlight innovative approaches to crafting meaningful learning experiences. Dr. Furman's insights promise to inspire educators to nurture environments where empathy, understanding, and learners thrive.

(0:00:03) - Teaching Ethically in Early Childhood 

Discover how Dr. Cara Furman advocates for teaching from an ethical center, emphasizing adaptability and practical wisdom in navigating classroom challenges.

(0:12:51) - Integrating Curriculum Through Literature and Movement 

Explore the innovative integration of thematic curriculum with literature and movement, featuring engaging projects like puppet shows and folktales.

(0:20:17) - Using Books as Windows and Mirror for Personal Connection 

Uncover the transformative power of children's literature as tools for empathy, with insights into selecting books that serve as mirrors and windows for students.

(0:26:54) - Navigating Diverse Themes in Children's Literature 

Examine the challenges of finding diverse children's literature and the importance of avoiding stereotypes while enriching understanding.

(0:42:25) - Building Spaces for Hope 

Reflect on the theme of hope and the small moments of connection that bring value to our world.

Links:

• Learn more about Dr. Cara Furman
• Listen to Dr. Furman's Podcasts: Thinking in the Midst and Teaching from an Ethical Center 
• Books by Dr. Furman: Descriptive Inquiry in Teacher Practice: Cultivating Practical Wisdom to Create Democratic Schools and Teaching from an Ethical Center

Join us as we celebrate the transformative power of teaching and literature in creating compassionate and ethically grounded learning environments.

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a text

Imagine diving into a world where vibrant illustrations bring joy, diversity, and wildlife conservation to life. In this episode of the Adventures in Learning podcast, Dr. Diane chats with the talented illustrator Kayla Harren, who has turned her passion for art into a meaningful journey that connects children with stories of inclusion and the wonders of wildlife.

Podcast Summary 

In this episode, Kayla Harren shares her journey from aspiring artist to inspired children's book illustrator, with a special focus on her books This Is How We Play and This Is How We Talk, which center characters with disabilities and special needs. Kayla discusses the importance of authentic representation and joy in illustrating diverse characters. She also shares her unexpected path into wildlife conservation, leading to exciting collaborations with the Wild Nature Institute and our shared adventure in South Africa with CBCC (Children's Book Creators for Conservation) and Wild Tomorrow. Throughout the conversation, Kayla highlights the power of storytelling, creativity, and finding beauty in everyday moments.

Chapters and Timestamps

01:03: Illustrating Joy and Diversity in Books

10:27: Connecting Illustration to African Wildlife Conservation 

23:11: Finding Hope in Small Things 

Order Kayla's Books:

• This Is How We Play
• This Is How We Talk
• A Voice Like Yours
• A Planet Like Ours
• Preorder A Puppy Like Yours
• Juma the Giraffe
• Helping Brother Rhinoceros
• Our Elephant Neighbors
• The Boy Who Grew a Forest
• Calvin
• Oskar's Voyage

Follow @kaylaharren on instagram.

Join us for an episode that celebrates the profound impact of art, storytelling, and conservation. Be inspired to see the world through a lens of joy and creativity!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.