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What if the definition of Home extended beyond walls and roofs to embrace connection to nature and each other? We explore this question with Newbery medalist Matt de la Peña, author of beloved books like Last Stop on Market Street and Carmela Full of Wishes. Matt opens up about his creative process and how real-life experiences influence his writing.

Matt shares how personal anecdotes find their way into his work (think Patchwork with Corrina Luyken). Student questions lead us to explore how the universal magic of picture books can captivate everyone from preschoolers to adults.

We deep dive into Love to Home (with Loren Long). Recent events like the fires in Los Angeles or the pandemic can act as disruptors, prompting a reevaluation of what truly constitutes a home. We talk about ways the writing process can take unexpected turns that lead to fresh discoveries and themes like reconnecting with nature. We also explore the themes of identity and resilience, especially for those standing on society's fringes.

Chapters:

• 1:05: Inspiration and Writing for Audiences of All Ages
• 2:21: Patchworkand autobiographical seasonings
• 5:16: Carmela Full of Wishesinspiration and a love letter to the Mexican side of Matt's identity
• 7:22: From Love to Home
• 15:14: What is Home?
• 21:41: Challenges to books and conversations
• 28:20: On the outside looking in: seeing things from a different perspective
• 31:48: Matt gives us a sneak peek at Home
• 37:28: Finding hope in challenging times

Links:

• Matt De La Pena's Website
• Purchase Matt's books
• Connect with Matt on Instagram, Facebook, and BlueSky

Support the show

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

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What do starry nebula, Bruce Lee, and disgustingly cool science facts have in common? They are all products of the creative mind of author Teresa Robeson.

In this episode, we welcome back Teresa Robeson, a busy author with a rich background in science and storytelling. Teresa unveils her upcoming books, including Clear and Bright: A Ching Ming Festival Story; Disgustology: The Science of Gross; and a graphic biography, Who Smashed Hollywood Barriers with Gung Fu?: Bruce Lee.

Teresa shares insights into the art of storytelling through visuals and the collaborative process of bringing science and historical moments to life. Our discussion ventures into the mesmerizing realms of astronomy and science literature, with highlights from NASA's stunning imagery that fueled her recent book, Clouds in Space: Nebulae, Stardust, and Us.

We also delve into the importance of diverse narratives, cultural acceptance, and the role of literature in building empathy. Plus there's a fun lightning fill in the break taken from listener questions (What language does Teresa speak to her chickens? What are the most disgusting facts she hasn't written about yet?) This episode celebrates diverse narratives, cultural tales, building our empathy muscles, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Timestamps and Chapters:

1:13- Bruce Lee and Clear and Bright

15:13: Smithsonian honors, Clouds in Space, and Quirky Science Storytelling in Disgustology

20:13: Lightning Fill in the Blank

26:03: Building Our Empathy Muscles Through Diverse Children's Literature

32:37: Finding Hope in Empathy and Youth

Links:

• Teresa Robeson's Website: https://www.teresarobeson.com
• Teresa's previous appearance on the Adventures in Learning podcast
• Follow Teresa Robeson on Instagram, LinkedIn, and BlueSky

Connect with Us:

Follow us on Substack and Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform and sharing it with your friends. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you!

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.

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How do we make science engaging and relevant for students? And why is science literacy more important than ever for how we all live and work? Join Dr. Diane for a thoughtful and fascinating discussion with Ali Stone, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer of Kesler Science.

Join us as we explore Ali's inspiring journey from teaching to innovation and learn how creativity and hands-on learning can spark a lifelong passion for science.

Chapters with Timestamps:

1:02: Why are Science AND Science Literacy So Important?

9:02: Ali's Adventures in Learning -- from Science Teacher to COO

22:08: Empowering Teachers with Creative Science Strategies

30:30: Fostering Curiosity and Playful Learning

36:52: The Power of Hope and Human Adaptability

Links:

• Connect with Ali Stone on LinkedIn
• Explore the Kesler Science resources
• Follow Kesler Science on Instagram and Facebook
• Listen to the Adventures in Learning podcast episodes featuring Chris Kesler and Steve Spangler

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.

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Dive into a world where play meets innovation! Discover how WOW! Children's Museum is reshaping STEAM education, fostering creativity, and bridging the gender gap in science for young learners -- even in an increasingly challenging landscape.

Join us as we step into a world of wonder and imagination with Joanna Cagan, WOW's inspiring executive director. For nearly three decades, this museum has been a beacon of curiosity and creativity in Colorado, focusing on playful learning and STEM/STEAM education.

In this episode, Joanna shares her journey and reveals how WOW! is adapting to community needs with innovative spaces, programs, and exhibits. We highlight the transformative Girls in Science event, designed to empower young girls and address the gender gap in STEM fields. Despite funding challenges, WOW! remains committed to inclusivity and making STEM and STEAM accessible to all. Discover how you can help support this mission and ignite a passion for learning in the next generation.

Chapters & Timestamps:

1:02: Inspiring Learning Through Play and STEM/STEAM

8:18: Celebrating Girls in Science

14:40: Joanna Cagan's Adventures in Learning

20:54: Empowering Communities, Families, and Youth Through Play and STEM/STEAM

Links:

• Visit WOW! Children's Museum:
• Donate or Help Out with Girls in Science and other events
• Register for the Girls in Science Event on March 7

Get Involved:

Whether you're in Colorado or elsewhere, support your local children's museums, art museums, nature centers, and zoos. Let's spark curiosity and discovery in the next generation together!

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.

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Step into a world where time traveling fantasy meets action-packed history with a joyous celebration of Latinx culture. Join us as author Emma Otheguy unveils the hidden threads connecting Cinco de Mayo and the American Civil War through her magical storytelling in Cousins in the Time of Magic. The book is out 2/25/25, but you can send a text or subscribe to my website this week for a chance to win a copy.

Emma Otheguy, who holds a PhD in history, shares her insights on how fantasy can illuminate lesser-known historical events and cultural ties, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in children's literature. Discover how her portrayal of three distinct cousins offers a multifaceted view of Latino identity, challenging stereotypes and reshaping traditional narratives. Emma's journey from educator to author highlights her dedication to inspiring young readers with diverse stories, fostering a deeper connection to history and culture.

01:01: Cinco De Mayo and the US Civil War

Dive into the historical connections between Cinco de Mayo and the American Civil War. Learn about Emma's inspiration for her novel and the importance of educating young readers about these intertwined events.

9:00: Exploring the Importance of Cultural Authenticity in Children's Literature

How do balloons Cousins in the Time of Magicconnect to STEM/STEAM and other cultural narratives like the Wizard of Oz? Discover how her portrayal of three distinct cousins offers a multifaceted view of Latino identity, challenging stereotypes and reshaping traditional narratives.

18:25 Becoming a Writer

We discover Emma's adventures in Learning from teacher to PhD to award-winning author. She shares her passion for crafting stories that educate young readers about Latino history and culture.

26:12 Connecting Stories and Building Hope:

We discuss the challenges and joys of writing for different age groups and how Emma's work fosters hope and understanding among young readers.

Links:

• Emma Otheguy's Website
• Purchase Cousins in the Time of Magic
• Follow Emma on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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.

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Do you know the story of Yvonne Clark? She was a pioneering African-American problem-solving mechanical engineer who worked on the Saturn V rocket boosters and moon boxes for astronauts. For 55 years, she taught mechanical engineering at Tennessee State University, where her story captivated her student (and later picture book biographer) Allen R. Wells.

Discover how the remarkable legacy of engineer Yvonne Clark is inspiring the next generation through a gorgeous new children's book, Yvonne Clark and Her Engineering Spark. Author/engineer Allen R. Wells and illustrator DeAndra Hodge help me delve into the world of STEM, storytelling, and the transformative power of diversity and inclusivity in literature. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Yvonne Clark and the power of storytelling to inspire future generations.

Chapters:

1:03: Who Was Hidden Figure Yvonne Clark? Learn about this pioneering mechanical engineer in Yvonne Clark and Her Engineering Spark, a must-have book for STEM and STEAM educators.

7:50: Engineering + Artistry = Engineering Spark

14:10: Adventures in Learning

22:11: Incorporating STEAM Into Inclusive and Diverse Children's Literature

Links:

• Order Yvonne Clark and Her Engineering Spark
• Follow Allen R. Wells on [Instagram/Bluesky/LinkedIn]
• Follow DeAndra Hodge on [Instagram/Bluesky/LinkedIn]
• Learn more about Yvonne Clark in Scientific American, Lost Women of Science, Society of Women Engineers, and Vanderbilt University

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.

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Ever wondered what happens when a classroom becomes a hub of curiosity and discovery? Join us as we dive into the world of Amari Shields, a three-time Teacher of the Year, who transforms science education into a magical experience, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

Summary:

In this episode, we sit down with Amari Shields, the dynamic CEO of Mentored Motivation and a celebrated eighth-grade science teacher. Amari shares her inspiring journey from an English teacher to a leading advocate for inquiry-based science education. Her approach, reminiscent of Ms. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus, encourages students to explore, question, and understand the world around them. Through engaging classroom activities and a commitment to equity in STEM education, Amari empowers students to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. Join us to learn how Amari Shields is redefining science education and paving the way for future STEM leaders!

Chapters with Timestamps:

1:02 Empowering Inquiry-Based Science Teaching: Discover the strategies that make Amari a stand-out three-time teacher of the year.

10:02: Fostering Inquiry-Based Science Skills for All Ages: Delve into strategies to cultivate curiosity and observation in students through collaborative and playful learning.

18:16: Exploring the Importance of Science Skills: Understand the role of critical thinking and problem-solving in science education, illustrated through real-world examples and classroom activities.

24:15: Investigating Biodiversity Through Science Education: Experience Amari's creative teaching approach as students explore the environmental impact of palm oil plantations, emphasizing biodiversity and sustainability.

30:15: Ad -- Explore Learning and Leading Through Play with Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor and Amari Shields

31:30 Journey to STEM Teaching Success: Follow Amari's path from corporate sales to a fulfilling career in science education, highlighting the power of project-based and inquiry-based learning.

44:30: Inspiring STEM Education and Motivation: Learn about Mentored Motivation and Amari's work to address education disparities and empower students from diverse backgrounds.

Links:

Joyful Play/Connected Learning online course with Amari and Dr. Diane

Earth Day, Every Day STEM Pack K-4 developed by Amari and Dr. Diane

@amarishieldseducation

LinkedIn

Thornton Middle School Teacher of the Year post

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.

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Dive into the thrilling world of espionage and storytelling with author James Ponti as he unveils his latest thriller, London Calling, from the City Spies middle grade adventure series. Discover how real-world experiences, travel, and expert insights (he's interviewed a former CIA director!) enrich his narratives. Plus, there's a fun lightning fill-in-the-blank section based on listener questions.

Chapters and Clues:

1:29: All Things London Calling and City Spies

James Ponti introduces London Calling, the sixth book in the City Spies series, sharing how personal adventures in Rome and London fuel the story's rich setting and complex characters. Discover how his background as a History Channel producer adds depth to the narrative, and get a sneak peek into the upcoming storyline twists.

17:40 - Lightning Fill in the Blank

Enjoy a playful fill-in-the-blank segment and delve into the essence of mystery writing as James answers such questions as:

• a good spy needs...
• your secret spy skill would be...
• a good mystery has...
• next stop for the City Spies is...
• being a renegade of middle grade means...
• I make my hair silky smooth by...
• favorite City Spies memento..
• books are...
• you should have asked me...

28:32- Navigating the Noise

We discuss the importance of the children's literature community in creating worlds for readers to explore -- and in supporting each other in times of struggle.

Links:

Order London Calling and the rest of the City Spies series

Join the book tour

Mission Manhattan interview

Sherlock Society interview

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.