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This month on Little Minds Big Talks, we’re diving into emotional regulation and how understanding our brains can actually make us happier.

Our fourth- and fifth-grade hosts interview Dr. Thao, a local child psychologist, to learn why we have big emotions and what’s happening in our brains when we feel overwhelmed, angry, nervous or sad. 

Dr. Thao shares practical strategies kids (and adults!) can use in the moment to calm down, think clearly and build emotional intelligence at home and at school.

This episode reminds us that emotional regulation isn’t about stopping feelings it’s about learning what to do with them.

Take a deep breath and listen in as we continue our Happiness Project journey.

And remember, little hearts can make a big difference.

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In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our fourth- and fifth-grade hosts dive into the idea of growth mindset. This means learning how our brains grow when we try, make mistakes, and keep going.

We’re joined by songwriter Marty Dodson, who shares his journey of creativity, persistence, and learning through challenges. Marty talks about how his early work wasn’t perfect, how feedback helped him improve, and why mistakes are an important part of success.

This conversation helps us understand that talent isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build through effort, practice, and believing in yourself. Whether you’re learning in school, sports, music, or life, this episode reminds us that “not yet” is more powerful than “I can’t.”

Thanks for listening, and remember: little hearts can make a big difference, so spread kindness, stay curious, and strive to make the world a better place, one conversation at a time.

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In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our fourth- and fifth-grade hosts explore the power of social connections and why relationships matter at every age. Scientists say strong social connections can help people feel happier, healthier, and less lonely, and we wanted to see what that looks like in real life.

This conversation reminds us that feeling connected helps everyone thrive and that little moments of connection can make a big difference.

Thanks for listening, and remember: little hearts can make a big difference, so spread kindness, stay curious, and strive to make the world a better place, one conversation at a time.

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In this special episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our 4th and 5th grade hosts continue exploring the theme of gratitude with an extraordinary guest Dr. Jeni “Mama Peace” Stepanek.
Jeni shares the powerful lessons of gratitude, peace, and purpose she learned with her son, poet and peace-builder Mattie J.T. Stepanek. Together, they inspired millions around the world through their message of hope and “Heartsongs.”

In this heartfelt conversation, Jeni helps us understand how gratitude can guide us through hard times, how kids can practice thankfulness every day, and how small actions can create big waves of peace in our communities. 

http://www.mattiespeacefoundation.org/

Join us for one of our most inspiring interviews yet, and stay tuned, because next month we begin our new theme: Social Connections!

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In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our 4th and 5th grade hosts explore the power of gratitude and how giving back can make us happier. We sit down with Kyle Garcia, a local firefighter, to learn how gratitude shows up in his work, his team, and his daily life. From helping others to finding joy in service, Kyle shares how being thankful connects to courage, kindness, and community. Tune in to hear how gratitude can spark happiness one good deed at a time. 

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 In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our 4th and 5th grade hosts explore how art connects to mindfulness and happiness. We sit down with award-winning illustrator Tyler Jacobson to learn how creativity can help us slow down, focus, and express our emotions. Tyler shares what it’s like to get lost in the flow of drawing, how mistakes can lead to growth, and why making art can be a powerful way to find calm in a busy world. Tune in to discover how mindfulness and creativity work hand in hand! 

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In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our 4th and 5th grade hosts explore the power of mindfulness and how it connects to happiness. After reflecting on last month’s theme of kindness, we welcome special guest Shawnte, a local yoga instructor and parent at our school. She helps us understand what mindfulness really means, how it can calm our minds, and simple ways kids can practice it every day. Tune in to discover how slowing down can actually bring more joy to our lives!

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In this episode of Little Minds Big Talks, our 4th and 5th grade hosts sit down with Camden Riley from the Oakland Roots soccer team to talk all about kindness. Camden shares how kindness shapes teamwork, builds stronger connections, and makes a difference both on and off the field. His stories remind us that even in competitive sports, leading with kindness can change the game and the world around us. Tune in for inspiration on how to spread kindness in your own life! 

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In the first episode of Season 3 of Little Minds Big Talks, our fourth & fifth-grade hosts sit down with a special member of our community who founded the Kindness Coalition. Together, they explore the power of kindness, why it matters, and practical ways we can all spread kindness in our schools and communities. This episode is just the first stop on our journey to discovering the science and joy of happiness, so tune in and get inspired to make the world a brighter place! 

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We are off for season 3 of Little Minds Big Talks! We hope you join us as we discuss happiness and all the ways we can achieve it together!