The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Kids
The Lil' Leaders Podcast features children sharing real stories and everyday experiences that reveal the leadership skills they are developing through friendships, challenges, successes, and everyday moments. Hosted by award-winning teacher and children's author Tina Shepardson, each episode includes authentic conversations with kids about building confidence, communication skills, friendship skills, teamwork, resilience, kindness, empathy, and responsibility. The podcast explores questions parents wonder about as their children grow, such as how to help kids become more confident, develop leadership skills, and improve problem-solving abilities.
Episodes
The Middle School Experience: Voices of Pueblo Middle's 6th Graders
In this special episode, 6th grade students from Pueblo Middle School share honest conversations about the real-life challenges and experiences kids face during the middle school years. From handling stress and pressure to building confidence, communication skills, community, and responsible decision-making, students explore important life skills that can help kids navigate this stage of life with
Recognizing Everyone's Worth With Laila
Meet Laila, a 4th grader from Texas and the 2025 Junior Preteen State Title Holder with International United Miss — but her biggest title might just be "The Bright Light in the Room." After experiencing what it feels like when kids don't accept differences, Laila made a powerful choice. Instead of shrinking back, she let that experience become her superpower. She's now on a mission to help kids re
From Rescue to Reading: Easton's Story of Second Chances
What happens when a teacher, a love of reading, and a rescue puppy come together? This week on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, we're thrilled to feature a special Big Leader episode with teacher, author, and rescue advocate Elizabeth Retter, who shares how rescuing Easton as a puppy from Pennsylvania and bringing him home to Canada changed her life in the most unexpected ways. After one unforge
Finding the Right Ride: Perseverance, Empathy, and Leadership
IIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift. Meet an ostrich who doesn't quite fit the mold and is trying to find his way back—only to discover that finding the right ride isn't easy. The ostrich is well aware of any accommodations he may need to get home safely. In fact, despite the setbacks he fac
From the Field to the Stage: Mason Shows What's Possible
In our first 2026 episode, Mason shares how his love for acting, football, and basketball keeps him energized and motivated every day. He opens up about why treating others the way you want to be treated is the foundation of real leadership, and how staying active helps him stay confident. When life feels busy or overwhelming, Mason turns to deep breaths and drawing to calm his mind before jumping
When Art Meets Heart: Allie's Story
Meet Allie, a third grader whose love for dance, modeling, and the arts shines as bright as her smile! Whether she's learning new dance moves with friends or helping others master theirs, Allie's enthusiasm and kindness make her a true Lil' Leader. She embraces every challenge in her dance classes and believes in following big dreams—like one day becoming a doctor. Tune in to hear how Allie's crea
We Either Win or Learn: Myra on the Spark of Failure
In this inspiring follow-up episode, Myra returns to the Lil' Leaders Podcast to share her powerful essay on failure in honor of National Failure Day. You might remember Myra from her first visit, when she told us how she created her nonprofit, Sparklez.org, to help raise money for a girls' school in India and reminded us that we're never too young to make a difference. This time, Myra opens up ab
Art, Activism, and Inspiration with Kelcie
In this heartwarming episode, meet Kelcie—a young leader who brings creativity, kindness, and action together in amazing ways. Kelcie has written children's books inspired by her own life, even illustrating one using the digital art program Procreate. Her passion for helping others led her to fundraise for koalas after the devastating fires in Australia, and her role model is none other than Dr. O
Navigating the New School Year with Michelle Blais
The new school year is exciting—but it also brings big changes, new routines, and sometimes worries for kids (and parents!). In this episode, Michelle Blais from @misschellemindset joins Tina to chat about how to help kids settle into their "new normal." From checking in often and practicing calming techniques like hot chocolate and candle breathing, to celebrating mistakes as part of learning, th
Cai & Waylon: A Gotcha Day To Remember
Welcome to Season 3's first episode! Meet Cai, a boy with a big heart and an even bigger dream—a dog of his very own! Join us as he shares the magical day he visited his local shelter with his mom and met Waylon, the pup who stole his heart. Cai talks about how he knew Waylon was "the one," the fun of playing and training together, and why he chose to celebrate Waylon's Gotcha Day in style with a
Myra's Mission: Big Heart, Bright Vision
Meet Myra, a fifth-grade entrepreneur who proves you're never too young to make a difference. After watching videos from her mom's trip to India helping a school for visually impaired girls, Myra felt inspired to take action. She founded her own nonprofit—Sparklez.org—to provide eyewear and vision care for girls in need. But she didn't stop there! Myra rallied other young entrepreneurs and organiz
Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter
In this special episode, 6th graders at Pueblo Middle School team up to share the power habits they've been practicing to become confident, successful students and strong role models. From being proactive and solving problems to finding their voice and taking care of themselves, each group dives into one habit and explains how it helps them handle everyday challenges. This episode is designed to i
Veera's Return: A Voice For New Students
Veera is back! Our first returning guest shares how her school year is wrapping up and what she's learned along the way. She talks about her role in the Envoy Program, where just two students per class help new kids feel welcome. From tips on making friends to handling hard days, Veera shows us how leadership starts with kindness and a listening ear. Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Girl w
Kidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way
Meet this week's lil' leader, Durvin! At just 15 years old, he is already a seasoned editor and the founder of Kidlio Magazine, a creative project he started at age 10 to share his love of graphic design and storytelling. In this inspiring conversation, Dhurvin shares how his passion turned into a thriving magazine during the pandemic, how he balances school and publishing with the help of his mo
Growth Mindset Matters with Michelle Blais
What if every time your child said "I can't," they followed it with "...yet"? This week on Lil' Leaders, we're shining the spotlight on Michele Blais—our Big Leader Feature! Michele is not only an inspiring educator, but a powerful advocate for helping kids grow through what they go through. With her deep belief in the power of a growth mindset, Michele has made it her mission to teach kids (and t
Click With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop Cyberbullying
Ashley, a high school junior, was excited to get her first cell phone, but she soon discovered that life online isn't always as great as it seems. Social media opened her eyes to both its benefits and the harsh reality of cyberbullying. Determined to make a difference, she wrote Sasha Goes to Cyberspace, a children's book on digital kindness, and founded Click With Kindness. Tune in as Ashley shar
Teaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership Journey
Let's welcome Dhanvi today, a creative and compassionate 4th grader. She shines as a role model in her school and community. Whether she's playing soccer, painting, singing, or helping others, she puts her heart into everything she does. Inspired by her love for helping people, she dreams of becoming a doctor one day. In this episode, Dhanvi shares a powerful lesson from art class—teaching is most
The Magic of Storytime with Rella B. Books
Today, we're introducing something exciting—Rella B Books! It all started with a mom's love for her daughter and a dream to create fun, educational content that makes learning feel like an adventure. What began as a way to share stories at home has grown into something even bigger—a visual storytime on YouTube and an audio storytime podcast where authors bring their stories to life! At Rella B Bo
You Are Enough: A Fantastically Me Author & Lil' Readers' Chat
This inspiring episode consisted of 2 continents: the United States and Australia, and 2 groups: the authors and readers! We sit down with authors Sharmilla and Sharminey of Books for Growing Minds (@bfgminds) to talk about their empowering book, Fantastically Me. The story follows a talented main character and a group of friends competing in a talent show—only to start doubting themselves. But w
Enza's Story: Leading With Voice & Kindness
Meet today's lil' leader, Enza, a thoughtful and respectful classmate who inspires others by leading with kindness. In this episode, Enza shares a powerful story about standing up for a friend who made an honest mistake and how she wished she had spoken up even sooner. She reflects on the importance of supporting others and embracing courage. Enza also opens up about her admiration for her cousin,
Little Justice Leaders: Sparking Big Conversations For Change
This week, we're sitting down with the incredibly dedicated Shelby, the creator of Little Justice Leaders, to talk about how they're creating the next generation of changemakers! From schools to living rooms, Shelby and her team are making social justice education accessible and engaging for kids and adults alike. Whether it's helping parents tackle tough topics or giving teachers the tools to fo
Balance & Joy: Olivia Genesis Leads Her Way
Welcome Olivia Genesis to today's episode! She's a Lil' Leader who's always on the move—kicking it in karate, shining as a model, singing her heart out, writing a book for kids, and helping others with kindness. But Olivia's true superpower? Knowing when to say, "This isn't the right fit," so she can keep discovering what she loves most. With so much on her plate, Olivia strives to master the art
Vindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being You
In today's episode, we meet a talented and inspiring young guest named Vindhy! She loves Bollywood dancing, gymnastics, and singing. With a big dream of becoming a singer someday, she shares how being recognized as Student of the Month taught her the value of listening and learning from others. She also loves reading and believes being true to yourself means knowing how to say no to things that do
Paige's Journey: The Power of Trying
Have you ever tried something new and realized it wasn't for you? Today's guest, Paige, has been exploring her passions since she was just 3 years old! Whether it's dancing, acting, or modeling, Paige keeps trying new things—even when they don't always work out—because each step brings her closer to what she truly loves. Each step also gives to the confidence to try the next interest. We can't wa
Parenting & Podcasting: Andi Smiley's Guide to Kid-Approved Listening
Today, we're so excited to welcome Andi Smiley to our Big Leader Feature! Andi is the creator of the Family Podcast Guide, a wonderful resource that helps parents find fun, educational podcasts for the whole family. She's here to share how her guide makes screen-free fun easier and helps families laugh, learn, and connect. Andi's work doesn't stop there—she's also building a supportive podcasting
It Matters To Me: Harriet's Heart For Giving & Inclusion
Welcome to today's episode! Today on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, meet Harriet! She's a young girl with a huge heart, on a mission to make sure everyone feels included and loved. Through her charity work, Harriet proves that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a better place. Be inspired by her understanding of how important it is to life others up.
Unlocking Reading Success: The Power of Eyewords
Welcome to today's episode! I'm excited to introduce our guest, Jen Orr, the creator of Eyewords Learning. Jen developed a unique way to help kids learn to read by using the science of how our brains work best. Her program, Eyewords, combines seeing, hearing, and touching all at once to make learning easier. It connects the sounds, letters, and meanings of words in a way that helps kids remember t
Lifting Each Other Up: With Smiles and Teamwork
Lifting Each Other Up : With Smiles And Teamwork What does it take to be a true leader in the face of challenges? Meet Sahasra, today's Lil' Leader! This incredible 7th grader has a heart full of empathy, always finding ways to help those in need. Even when faced with unexpected situations and comments, Sahasra stays optimistic and encourages her classmates to work together fo
A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere
A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere Meet Peter Panopolous, this week's Big Leader feature! After 12 years of classroom teaching, Peter pursued his next dream—teaching online to support kids who needed alternative learning options. In this episode, we explore his strategies and compassionate approach as he created ATravelingTeacher.com. His platform helps students, whether they'
Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader
Show Notes Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader Meet Veera, our first Lil' Leader of the season! She's an elementary school student who loves helping others, even during her lessons. Supporting her peers and family is incredibly important to her! Her episode, 'Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader,' is also her first time on a podcast. Congratula
The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity
In this week's REPOST episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by to share a special family story. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through with joy. Their story is one filled with family, love, determination, persistence, bravery and empathy. Enjoy liste
The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories
We are revisiting with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners on a magical literary adventure. Listen in as she shares her journey and the meaningful experiences she hopes to create for young readers. En
Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers
Episode 12 Repost: Welcome to this week's repost of an unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! With summer break underway, these girls know all the best books for kids aged 5 and up! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales as Paige and Laly bring their infectious energy and passion for reading straight to your ears.
Season 1 Finale With A Podcast Scavenger Hunt
A special thank you to everyone who made Season 1 a success and so much fun! To celebrate Season 1, we're hosting a special podcast scavenger hunt. Here's the scoop: we've hidden 10 questions across our episodes. In the podcast directory, guest names are shared in the description, so you know which episodes to listen to. Using the Google Form in the Instagram Bio, kids can listen closely to each e
Through Every Child's Eyes: Celebrating Diversity
Life often seems like it's painted in black and white, but if we look closer, it's truly filled with vibrant colors—colors that come from our unique perceptions. Today, we're thrilled to introduce Celia Botto, the debut author of When Ayden Paints The Sky. Inspired by her young niece Ayden, Celia has woven a beautiful story where the canvas of the sky mirrors our emotions and the way w
Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior
In this week's REPOST episode, Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teacher is in class for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. This time of year the season is changing, kids see the end in sight, and they are easily distracted. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, sensitivity, and emp
From Woofs to Wows: Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools
We're super excited to introduce you to someone really special in today's big leader feature. Say hello to Dr. Barbara Vokatis, who's not only an amazing literacy professor but also a dog-loving therapist! She and her furry friend Carmel love visiting schools to lend a paw in helping kids with their feelings, friendships, and learning. They're on a mission to spread the word about how
The Puppeteer's Toolbox: Enhancing Education Through Theatre
Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Danny Gibbins, an incredibly talented teacher and puppeteer, renowned for her professional workshops that entertain and educate kids and teachers through her business, @dramazing_kids. Danny joins us to share how blending education and entertainment using puppets opens the doors for children to understand they can solv
The Magic of Mistakes and More with Shanda McCloskey
Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Shanda McCloskey, an incredibly talented author/illustrator, renowned for her captivating children's books such as Doll-E 1.0, Nubby, and Little Red and the Big Bad Editor. Shanda joins us to share how embracing mistakes can pave the way for unexpected growth and creativity. Picture Book Recommendations:
Balancing Screentime: Expert Tips for Tech-Intentional Families
Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Emily Cherkin, also known as the ScreenTime Consultant and author of the acclaimed book, ScreenTime Solution: A Judgment-Free Guide to Becoming a tech-Intentional Family. Emily is on a mission to help families find balance in their digital lives by promoting a mindful approach to technology use. Drawing from her expert
Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making
Repost: In this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet girls are funny, authentic, truthful, and hold strong values in compassion, empathy and friendship. Enjoy Kaya and Vivi in this week's intervi
Beyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery
Beyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery Today, we're thrilled to introduce our first big feature leader! Welcome to author, illustrator, and art teacher, Sean E. Avery! If you've ever needed tips and tools to boost your creativity, explore unique ways of making things, manage multiple passions well, or ignite a love for art in children, then you're in the right place. Join
Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers
Show Notes Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers Welcome to this week's unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales as Paige and Laly bring their infectious energy and passion for reading straight to your ears. From early readers to tweens, no book is off-
Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories
Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories Welcome to this week's episode! We sat down with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners on a magical literary adventure.
Inclusive Recess: Making a Difference One Friendship at a Time
In this week's episode, Essie shares her experiences of helping kids during recess who feel lonely and/or look sad. How? By listening to them and at the same time trying to figure out the best way to help. Inspired by the wonderful picture book, The Rabbit Listened, Essie shows compassion, advocacy, empathy, patience, connection, and true friendship through her actions. Enjoy her in this week's i
How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldrick's Fundraising
Today is a repost of our very first episode. In the spirit of giving this holiday season, listening to Bodie Centore share his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's over the last ten years is heartwarming , and may also help us think about an organization near and dear to our hearts we would like to help. Additionally, anytime a child is ill, it is very tough for parents. We have a book speci
Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making
In this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet girls are funny, authentic, truthful, and hold strong values in compassion, empathy and friendship. Enjoy Kaya and Vivi in this week's interview. Pi
Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior
In this week's episode,Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teachers for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, sensitivity, and empathy. Enjoy Abby in this week's interview. Picture Book Recommendations: a. Dear Substitute Author: Liz Garton Scanl
The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity
In this week's episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by for a visit. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through with joy. Their story is one filled with family, love, determination, persistence, bravery and empathy. Enjoy listening to Baxter and Ethan in
Young Heart, Big Impact: Inspiring Acts of Empathy and Inclusion
In this week's episode, Kennedy stopped by for a visit. Currently in 6th grade, Kennedy shares her story about how she enjoys helping someone feel comfortable in new situations or sad ones. She is the person to help you find your way and she is happy to help. Her examples demonstrate a great deal of empathy, patience, loyalty, and generosity. Enjoy listening to Kennedy's generous nature in this we
Holiday Harmony: Spreading Joy Through Song for the Elderly
Welcome back! In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Alyssa with us. Currently in 5th grade, Alyssa shares her gift of time with her junior girl scout troup during the holiday season. The joy the elderly felt made this is a worthwhile experience she hopes to participate in again this year. This young leader demonstrates empathy and enthusiasm. Enjoy listening to Alyssa's experience in thi
How Courage And Creativity Lead The Way To Embracing E.O.E.
In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Logan visit us. Currently in 4th grade, he shares his journey with E.O.E., Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a rare gastrointestinal disease. From symptoms to diagnosis and beyond, Logan discovers through careful trial and error, new foods that are not only healthy for him but for others as well. This process opened a door to sharing his discoveries in the m
How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldricks Fundraising
In our inaugural episode, recent and accomplished, high school graduate, Bodie Centore shares his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's the last ten years. While he doesn't match the age range (K-6), he demonstrated such strong compassion, empathy, and leadership the year he was my student. Bodie has always been an active community member both in and out of school playing sports, participatin
The Lil' Leader Podcast Trailer
Lil' Leaders is a podcast for kids in grades K-6, that celebrates the traits, experiences, and actions that make leaders effective. We'll hear from real school-age students nationwide that are making an impact in our world today and close our time with a few picture book recommendations supporting, inspiring, and inviting children to lead in our ever-changing world. Join us as we explore and c
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