What Happens When Kids with Differences Take Center Stage?

What Happens When Kids with Differences Take Center Stage?

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc January 15, 2026 Duration: 57:26

Dive into this heartwarming episode of "Reading with Your Kids" as host Jed Doherty welcomes acclaimed children's authors Lisa Jacovski and Deborah Marcero for inspiring conversations about inclusion, advocacy, and the creative journey behind beloved picture books.

The episode opens with Lisa Jacovski, author of the "Happy Thoughts" series, as she shares her passion for writing children's books that celebrate neurodiversity and teach empathy. Lisa draws from her background in applied behavior analysis and education, offering real-life anecdotes about working with nonverbal children and the powerful impact of inclusive classrooms. Her stories emphasize the importance of embracing differences and fostering acceptance from an early age, providing listeners with practical insight and hope for building a kinder future.

Later, award-winning author and illustrator Deborah Marcero joins to discuss her enchanting new book, "The Great Escape." Deborah shares personal reflections on sibling dynamics, her creative process as both writer and artist, and the vital balance of fostering agency in female protagonists. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at turning childhood memories and fantasy into stories that spark imagination and togetherness.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in empowering children through literature. Learn practical strategies to promote inclusion, discover the secrets of writing picture books with heart, and be inspired by guests who are changing the world of children's literature—one story at a time!


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
History, Harmony & Hope [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:37
On this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating two very different – but wonderfully complementary – books for young readers. First, Jed talks with Maria Dolores Aguila, author of the middle grade novel in v…
Seeking The Light In A Dark World [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:48
On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids Podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two amazing middle grade authors who explore how stories can help kids find light, courage, and connection in a complicated world. First, J…
The Cost of Sacrifice: Parenting, Trauma, and YA Fantasy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:19
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes Cliodhna O'Sullivan, author of the YA romantasy Her Hidden Fire, and Steph Carse, creator of the picture book I Am Awesomely Made. First, Jed chats wit…
What Happens When A Wish Breaks Your Family? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:17
In this inspiring episode of Reading With Your Kids, host Jed Doherty welcomes author Celesta Rimington to talk about her powerful new middle grade novel "Reach." Centered on a boy named Denver, Reach explores the compli…
Can Astronauts Be Black? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:41
In this inspiring episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty sits down with former Major League Baseball player turned artist and author Micah Johnson to talk about his powerful new middle grade nove…
Love Over Blood [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:43
In this heartwarming episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed Doherty welcomes Brooklyn teacher and award-winning author Torrey Maldonado to celebrate his debut picture book "Just Right." Torrey shares the deeply personal…
Chained, Bruised, and Reading:  The Real Magic Behind Houdini [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:12
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, Jed welcomes picture book author Barb Rosenstock to talk about her captivating new title, Houdini's Library. Drawing on her deep love of history and storytelling, Barb shares ho…
Coming Of Age In The Limelight [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:27
In this episode of Reading With Your Kids, we first head to 1990s New York City with Broadway actor and author Andrew Keenan-Bolger, here to celebrate his YA novel Limelight. Set in 1996, the story follows Danny, a shy S…
Alligators, Excavators & Judy the Great [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:54
In this lively episode of Reading With Your Kids, we're celebrating the power of picture books and biographies to turn kids into lifelong readers. First, Jed welcomes author Brooke Hartman and illustrator Michael Slack t…
What If You're The Only Muslim Kid At A Catholic School? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:31
On this episode of the Reading With Your Kids podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two creators whose books spark big, meaningful conversations for families. First, Jed chats with Huda Al Marashi, author of the middle grad…