Celebrating Black Innovators, Inclusive Stories, and New Ways to Read Together

Celebrating Black Innovators, Inclusive Stories, and New Ways to Read Together

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc January 9, 2026 Duration: 56:41

In this inspiring episode, we celebrate the power of curiosity, inclusion, and innovation for young readers and families! Host Jed Doherty first welcomes Dr. Ainissa Ramirez, scientist and author of "Spark: Jim West's Electrifying Adventure and Creating the Microphone." Ainissa shares how modern microphones owe their magic to Jim West's inventive mind and explains how science is all about asking questions, exploring, and making discoveries—ideals she brings to her children's books to inspire the next generation of diverse innovators.

Next, we meet Zephyrus White, co-founder of the Recordable Book Buddy, a clever device letting parents, grandparents, and loved ones record themselves reading picture books for the special kids in their lives. Zephyrus chats about the importance of family connections, the joy of sharing our voices, and how technology can bring storytime home—no screens required!

Finally, author and illustrator Kacey Becker joins the conversation to share "I See Superheroes Everywhere," a heartfelt picture book designed to prevent bullying and empower children with special needs. Kacey discusses the importance of empathy, the value of every kind of ability, and her personal mission to see every child recognize their own superpowers.

With friendly stories, fascinating science, and a big dose of heart, this episode offers parents, educators, and kids new ways to explore, connect, and grow together.


There’s a special kind of magic that happens when families share stories, try a new recipe, or simply talk about a movie they just watched together. The Reading With Your Kids Podcast, from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc, explores that magic in every episode. While the title highlights reading, the conversations here go far beyond the pages of a book. This podcast is really about connection-the kind built through everyday moments, whether you’re cooking, creating, or discovering a new song together. Each episode brings you authentic conversations with authors, educators, and families who share practical ideas and personal stories. You’ll hear about great children’s books, sure, but also about how shared experiences with TV, movies, and music can spark meaningful family discussions. The underlying goal is always to strengthen those essential bonds. Tuning in feels like getting thoughtful, friendly advice on turning daily routines into opportunities for laughter and learning. It’s a supportive space for any parent or caregiver looking to enrich their family life, one shared story or silly kitchen experiment at a time. The tone is warm, inclusive, and focused on the simple, powerful truth that time spent together is the foundation of a strong relationship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Celebrating The Cozy And Creepy Sides Of Kidlit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:13
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating both the cozy and the creepy sides of kids' lit! First, we welcome Alyssa Satin Capucilli, creator of the beloved Biscuit series, as she celebrates 30 years of…
Celebrating Night Owls And Night Markets [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:38
In this episode, Jed welcomes Emily Sun Li, debut picture book author of Mister Chow's Night Market, for a warm and lively conversation about creativity, culture, and doing life a little differently. Emily shares how liv…
The Mystery Of The Stolen World Cup Trophy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:48
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes author Angela Cervantes to celebrate her new middle-grade mystery, The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy. Angela shares her lifelong love of socce…
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Duration: 58:27
In this episode, Jed welcomes back Australian author Geoffrey McSkimming, creator of the much‑loved Phyllis Wong and Cairo Jim series. Geoffrey joins from Sydney to celebrate Phyllis Wong and the Lure of the Lighthouse,…
Catitude At The Pool [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:07
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed Doherty welcomes author Matthew Burgess and illustrator Robin Rosenthal to celebrate their charming new picture book, Serafina Makes Waves. Serafina is no ordinary cat—she's…
Raffi Riffs On Love, Chores & Children's Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:13
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes back legendary children's singer, songwriter, and author Raffi to celebrate his new picture book "Mama Loves It." The book is based on a song Raffi recorded with Ca…
Going to the Festival: Celebrating Community, Memories, and Art [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:15
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating two joyful, community-minded picture books that are perfect for creating memories with kids. First, Jed chats with Jodi Tatiana Charles, author of Going to the…
The Adventures Of Tubby Nugget [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:46
In this joyful episode, Jed chats with creative couple Jeanine Pastores and Joshua Jackson, the team behind the beloved character Tubby Nugget and their middle grade graphic novel "The Adventures of Tubby Nugget: Nuggetv…
Bedtime In The Black Forest [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:30
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes Kiersta Halseth, joining from Germany's enchanting Black Forest, to celebrate her debut picture book, "Lolli Stromboli and the Mysterious Hole." Kiersta shares her…