Best Rainbow Creative Podcasts (2025)

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From Flash Floods to Fire Towers: Stories of Growth and Resilience with Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose 26:21

5d ago26:21

26:21

Send us a text Get ready for some amazing adventures as you plan your summer reading journey with not one, but TWO thrilling middle grade tales of courage, growth, and resilience featuring strong female leads. Happy Book Birthdays to Ann Braden and Caroline Starr Rose! Join us as we unravel the magic behind Into the Rapids and The Burning Season, w…

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Beulah Land by Corey Flintoff 21:58

6d ago21:58

21:58

Corey Flintoff reads his short story "Beulah Land" from our current Spring issue. Corey Flintoff is a former foreign correspondent for NPR. His fiction has appeared in the Virginia Quarterly Review, Glimmer Train, Ploughshares, and other journals.

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Poems by Linda Laderman & Ryan Harper 6:55

10d ago6:55

6:55

Linda Laderman reads her poem "How you go on about the other woman," and Ryan Harper reads his poems "Atonia, Eve of St. Mark" and "Early Easter." Linda Laderman is a Michigan poet. Her poetry has appeared in numerous literary journals, including The Burningword Literary Journal, MER, SWWIM, ONE ART, Rust & Moth, Minyan, and Action-Spectacle. She i…

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Where Are You, Bronte? Barbara McClintock on Honoring Tomie dePaola, Creative Journeys and the Transformative Power of Storytelling 38:09

12d ago38:09

38:09

Send us a text Where Are You, Bronte? celebrates its book birthday this week -- and this book should come with complementary tissues for the adults reading it! Beloved illustrator Barbara McClintock took on the herculean task of illustrating Tomie de Paola's final manuscript. The result is a beautiful collaboration that pays tribute to his style wh…

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How to Buy a Rainbow by Alice Wyman 32:56

13d ago32:56

32:56

Alice Wyman reads her essay "How to Buy a Rainbow" from our Spring 2025 issue. Alice Wyman is an essayist and poet whose work explores the revelation of outlandish grace in small, daily things. Her work has appeared in Darling, The Washington Post, and other publications. She makes her home in the Carolinas with her husband and three children.…

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Spring 2025 Trailer 5:37

17d ago5:37

5:37

Co-Editor Caroline Langston introduces our new Spring 2025 issue. Tune in for a preview of what's to come and listen to Caroline's editorial letter, "Or Does It Explode?"

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The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon A Magical Middle Grade Odyssey with author Grace Lin 30:28

19d ago30:28

30:28

Send us a text The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon is like a mug of hot tea on a snowy day. It warms your soul and sparks the imagination. The characters are memorable and Grace Lin’s lyrical storytelling and gorgeous illustrations are sure to make this an instant beloved classic for families and classrooms everywhere. In this episode of the Adventu…

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Odder Otters, Pocket Bears, Arctophiles, and Championing Libraries with author Katherine Applegate 26:45

26d ago26:45

26:45

Send us a text What's better than a novel in verse about a wild sea otter rescued by the Monterray Aquarium? A beautiful picture book that tells that otter's story! Award winning author Katherine Applegate returns to chat all things otter, as we explore environmental themes in her magical Odder: An Otter's Story, illustrated by Charles Santoso. We …

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Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Exploring History and Connection with Kyle Lukoff and Levi Hastings 27:28

1M ago27:28

27:28

Send us a text How did a humorous military anecdote about a mysterious Dorothy evolve into an enlightening nonfiction picture book about LGBTQIA history? Author Kyle Lukhoff and illustrator Levi Hastings share the creative journey behind Are You a Friend of Dorothy? Kyle and Levi discuss the challenges and joys of representing complex identities in…

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Laurie Halse Anderson: Rebellion 1776, Celebrating Historical Fiction, and Protecting Our Freedom to Read 38:13

1M ago38:13

38:13

Send us a text Celebrate Library Week and the freedom to read with acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson. On this episode, we celebrate Laurie's latest release, Rebellion 1776, an adventure that began as Laurie recovered from COVID-19. Inspired by Abigail Adams' smallpox inoculation, this tale unravels the lives of working-class youth in Boston du…

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Exploring A Universe of Rainbows: Poetry Meets Science with Matt Forrest Esenwine 32:04

2M ago32:04

32:04

Send us a text Happy Poetry Month! This week we welcome Matt Forrest Esenwine, poetry's champion and ambassador, to the podcast to talk about his new anthology, A Universe of Rainbows: Multicolored Poems for a Multicolored World. What do Yellowstone's Grand Prismatic Spring, Peru's Vinicunca mountain, the star Betelgeuse, and a drop of water have i…

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It’s No Mystery: Making Reading Exciting with Best-Selling Author Stuart Gibbs 33:49

2M ago33:49

33:49

Send us a text Embark on a thrilling adventure with Stuart Gibbs, a master of storytelling who turns reluctant readers into avid book enthusiasts. The author behind such hit series as Spy School and Fun Jungle takes us on his creative journey through the realm of middle-grade fiction. Want to know what borborygmus means? We've got you covered (and …

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Ungoogleable Michaelangelo #4 2:32:40

2M ago2:32:40

2:32:40

The Ungoogleable Michaelangelo returns for another smash-hit episode of the Rainbow Brainskull podcast. Michaelangelo has a new book out called Lore Spores. Buy a copy here. Originating in The Netherlands, The Ungoogleable Michaelangelo is a creator of cosmic, comedic, and contemplative content, here to serve The Lore. Also known as a "Bardo Bard,"…

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How life’s challenges helped neurodivergent artist Abbas Zahedi find his creative voice 57:11

2M ago57:11

57:11

I sat down with Abbas Zahedi, a multidisciplinary artist working across sound, installation, and socially engaged practice. Their process-based, site-sensitive approach responds to space, history, and community, shaping work that resists easy categorisation. In this episode, we explore how neurodivergence informs Abbas’s creative practice, their no…

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RAP IT UP! Empowering Youth Through the Transformative Power of Rap with Carole Boston Weatherford and Jeffery Boston Weatherford 25:34

2M ago25:34

25:34

Send us a text Dive into the dynamic world of rap as a powerful tool for youth empowerment with the acclaimed mother/son author duo, Carole Boston Weatherford and Jeffery Boston Weatherford. Discover how their newest picture book RAP IT UP! is transforming classrooms and empowering young voices worldwide. Summary: In this rollicking episode, we sit…

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The Contemporary art Scene of Zagreb, Croatia 37:20

2M ago37:20

37:20

Join host Roland Ramos in this episode of Artifications as we delve into the captivating art scene of Zagreb, Croatia. All interviews were recorded in January of 2020. We'll explore the city's rich cultural history, visiting renowned galleries and contemporary spaces in the shadow of an impending global pandemic that would soon stop all global comm…

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In part 3 Sophie talks to Sam about Prince's French influences, Anna Fantastic coming to stay and in the 1990s receiving a very special invite, to a very special day. 30:25

2M ago30:25

30:25

Intro 2mins - French influences in '85/86 and Prince's love of Nice and Paris 5mins - How much warning would you get before Prince arrived in Paris? 6mins30s - Anna Fantastic comes to stay... 9mins - Gathering photos of the Prince universe along the way... 11mins - Why the relationship came to an end, Prince moves to Spain and Sophie has a child. 1…

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Inspiration, Identity, and HOME: A Journey with Newbery Medalist Matt de la Peña 41:08

2M ago41:08

41:08

Send us a text 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 influ…

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Resonant Themes: Joanna Sternberg’s Music, Neurodivergence, and Courageous Candour 59:00

2M ago59:00

59:00

Talented musician and illustrator Joanna Sternberg speaks with me about the themes in their music, dangers of people pleasing, inspirations, navigating the industry, and the empowering impact of trusted friends. We also speak about about the benefits and challenges that come from neurodivergent diagnosis, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Joann…

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Journey Through Storytelling: Teresa Robeson on Bruce Lee, Science Wonders, and Diverse Narratives 35:56

2M ago35:56

35:56

Send us a text 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 …

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Jack Tisson: Why Shaun Created a Character & Mindset to Rethink Work & Neurodivergence 58:52

3M ago58:52

58:52

What if you created a character to make sense of your own struggles? That’s exactly what Shaun did. He created Jack Tisson—a character through which he explores the root causes of the challenges he’s faced in life and how that understanding informs a more constructive approach to shaping the future he wants. In this conversation, we discuss: 🔹 The …

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Empowering Science Literacy with Kesler Science COO Ali Stone 40:13

3M ago40:13

40:13

Send us a text 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 …

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Making Without a Mask: Artist Elinor Rowlands on Creativity and Neurodivergence 59:51

3M ago59:51

59:51

Artist and Writer Elinor Rowlands speaks with Sam about navigating a creative career as a neurodivergent person, and the work they’re doing to support other autistic / ADHD artists thrive with their Magical Women project. In this episode we speak about: 00:00 Coming up in this episode 05:58 What Elinor believes creative practice offers that is esse…

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The Impact of Playful Learning and STEAM at WOW! Children's Museum with Joanna Cagan 24:25

3M ago24:25

24:25

Send us a text Show Notes: 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…

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Cousins in the Time of Magic: Latino History, Fantasy and Storytelling with Emma Otheguy 35:38

3M ago35:38

35:38

Send us a text 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 se…

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In part 2 Sophie Roux talks to Sam Bleazard about looking after Prince's Parisienne residence. For ten years at the height of his fame in the late 1980s, she explains what it felt like to have that unique ... 29:52

3M ago29:52

29:52

PART 2 - Sophie Roux talks to Sam Bleazard INTRO 2mins45secs - Were you nervous? Landing in Paris - just before Prince - to look after this apartment. 'I was a little nervous...but it was something special.' 3mins30secs - Any initial instructions on arrival? 6mins - Sophie tells us about her first interactions with Prince in Paris... 7mins30secs - …

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Inside the mind of an 'Outsider Musician' | Daniel Wilson (Meadow House) 58:50

3M ago58:50

58:50

Daniel Wilson (Meadow House, Post Electronics, Oscillatorial Binnage) joins Sam to discuss being labeled an outsider musician—how he relates to the term, and whether it connects to neurodivergence. They explore the challenges of sustaining a creative career outside conventional structures and how Dan’s approach to sound and music reflects a truly d…

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Yvonne Clark and Her Engineering Spark: A STEMsational Conversation with Allen R. Wells and DeAndra Hodge 32:12

3M ago32:12

32:12

Send us a text 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 biogra…

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Nurturing Curiosity: Transformative Science Education with Teacher of the Year Amari Shields 50:19

3M ago50:19

50:19

Send us a text 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…

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AI & ADHD: Always-on Support for Neurodivergent Creatives? | Justin Borge 49:35

3M ago49:35

49:35

In this episode of Working to Work, I speak with Justin Borge, a ChatGPT enthusiast who has found innovative ways to use AI to support his ADHD. We explore how AI can be a non-judgmental, always-available tool that helps neurodivergent individuals enhance their creative strengths and overcome challenges in work. Topics covered: • How Justin first s…

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Sophie Roux was studying set and costume design in Nice, France, when Prince decided to film a major motion picture there. What happened next, changed her life. This is part 1 of her story... 28:43

4M ago28:43

28:43

Sophie Roux interview PART 1 INTRO 2mins - Where did Sophie's artistic journey begin...and how did she come to specialise in set and costume design? 5mins - a first sighting of Prince in Nice 1985... 6mins - Asking, and then getting to work on, Under The Cherry Moon...with local, and American crews 11mins - Designing elements for the UTCM film, inc…

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Duncan Trussell #3 2:46:49

4M ago2:46:49

2:46:49

Duncan Trussell returns for his 3rd appearance on the Rainbow Brainskull podcast! Who doesn't love Duncan? You may know him from The Midnight Gospel on Netflix. Or the DTFH podcast. He's one of a kind and always has been. Duncan has been a friend for over a decade and I've been a fan of his for even longer. We aimed to record for an hour and ended …

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London Calling: Espionage, Adventure, and Middle Grade Renegades with Best-Selling Author James Ponti 32:38

4M ago32:38

32:38

Send us a text London Calling: Your Episode Case File 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!) enr…

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Why Flexibility Matters in Creative Spaces | Shakira Alleyne 7:50

4M ago7:50

7:50

Shakira Alleyne reflects on how rigid structures in creative programs can stifle participation, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Sharing her experience with unstructured environments, she highlights the importance of autonomy and flexibility in helping people thrive and feel included. Please do follow the show to be notified when new epis…

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Introducing...Interviews with Immigrants 1:14

4M ago1:14

1:14

Discover the heart, humor, and humanity behind immigration stories with Interviews With Immigrants. Hosted by immigration attorney Andrea Szew, this podcast takes a lighthearted yet insightful approach to celebrating the diverse journeys and contributions of immigrants. Through real stories, engaging conversations, and unique perspectives, Andrea s…

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Poem by Sharon Dolin & Art by Timothy deVries 7:38

4M ago7:38

7:38

Sharon Dolin reads her poem, "Before," and Timothy deVries discusses his art in "When Art Eschews Theology." Sharon Dolin is the author of seven books of poetry, most recently Imperfect Present; a memoir entitled Hitchcock Blonde; and two books of translation, most recently Late to the House of Words: Selected Poems by Gemma Gorga. Dolin is associa…

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Pea Returns! 2:08:14

4M ago2:08:14

2:08:14

Pea returns for my first Rainbow Brainskull podcast in over a year! We answer your submitted questions and talk about how we ended up doing whatever it is that we're doing. Pea is an artist and energetic strategist specializing in the energetics behind business and career success. They have a new book out now called [SPIRIT MATH](https://www.peathe…

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The "Aha" Moment That Changes The World -- Adventures with Thomas Wheeler and Everwhen: The Doomsday Vault 40:52

4M ago40:52

40:52

Send us a text Step into a realm where imagination dances with science, as Thomas Wheeler invites us on a captivating journey through time with his new middle grade fantasy (soon to be movie), Everwhen: The Doomsday Vault. Discover how a moment of meditation, a dash of Douglas Adams' time travel, and a lifetime of writing and world building helped …

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The Practice of Leading Contemplative Prayer with Kevin Driedger 7:07

4M ago7:07

7:07

Sometimes after doing a practice for a while, you may be invited to lead others in that practice. And leading contemplatively is its own practice. In this meditation, Kevin Driedger offers his approach to "The Practice of Leading Contemplative Prayer." Kevin lives on the Canadian prairies with his lovely wife June. He tries to bring a contemplative…

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"I've always found life hard to navigate — radio provided an escape" | Robin Blamires' Audio Rainbow 1:00:00

4M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Working to Work is proud to present Audio Producer, Robin Blamires' epic sonic journey exploring his passion for radio and experiences seeking work in the industry. The piece is demonstrative of Robin's impressive creative and technical skill, his honour, his deep knowledge and understanding of the radio medium. But it also speaks to the unfortunat…

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Poems by Maya Bernstein & Douglas Thorton 6:56

4M ago6:56

6:56

Maya Bernstein reads her poem, "The Primordial Catastrophe in the Process of Creation," and Douglas Thornton reads his poem, "The Tantra of Abiding." Maya Bernstein’s writing has appeared or is forthcoming in By the Seawall, The Ekphrastic Review, Pensive: A Global Journal of Spirituality and the Arts, Tablet Magazine, and elsewhere. She is a recen…

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Folk Literature, Anxiety, and Empowering Friendships -- Exploring Kaya of the Ocean with Gloria L. Huang 27:52

4M ago27:52

27:52

Send us a text Episode Overview: One of the things I love about the work I do is discovering new authors to share with you. This week, we are joined by debut author Gloria L. Huang to discuss her novel Kaya of the Ocean. Set against the scenic backdrop of Hawaii, Gloria's book intertwines themes of folk literature, family challenges, and the strugg…

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A Brief Cooking Meditation from Samir Knego 10:57

4M ago10:57

10:57

In this contemplative practice, Samir Knego invites us to embrace the ordinary act of cooking as a time for contemplation. In "⁠It Shall Be Food for You: A Brief Cooking Meditation⁠," Samir guides us through the process of cooking dried black beans, prompting us to thoughtfully consider our actions in each step, and to use times of waiting to refle…

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Navigating the music industry as an neurodivergent artist | Shakira Alleyne 59:46

4M ago59:46

59:46

Sam speaks with Shakira Alleyne, an autistic and ADHD musician and filmmaker, about their creative journey and the challenges neurodivergent musicians face. They discuss the inspiration behind Shakira’s film Neurodiversity in Music and the barriers uncovered during its making. The conversation digs into what makes creative spaces truly inclusive, h…

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Poems by Riv Wren & Maxim D. Shrayer 9:02

4M ago9:02

9:02

Riv Wren reads his poem, "The Lead Pastor's Visit," and Maxim D. Shrayer reads his poem, "The Conductor from Zion Square." Riv Wren lives in Loveland, Ohio. That is a real place. Wren's most recent poems appear in Pensive Journal and Cathexis Northwest. Maxim D. Shrayer, a Professor of Russian, English, and Jewish Studies at Boston College and a bi…

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Connecting Creativity, Literacy, and STEM: Heidi W. Powell's Mission with An Open Book Foundation 27:53

4M ago27:53

27:53

Send us a text Episode Summary: Unlock the power of books and creativity as we delve into the inspiring mission of An Open Book Foundation. Join Executive Director Heidi W. Powell as she shares how connecting young minds with authors and illustrators can spark a lifelong passion for reading. In this episode, Dr. Diane sits down with Heidi W. Powell…

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Seeking Creative Freedom by Lory Widmer Hess 15:11

4M ago15:11

15:11

Lory Widmer Hess reads her book review, "Seeking Creative Freedom: A Review of The Release: Creativity and Freedom After the Writing Is Done by Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew." Lory Widmer Hess lives with her family in Switzerland, where she works with adults with developmental disabilities and recently completed a training in Spiritual Direction. She is…

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Poems by Spencer Barnhill & Rachel Prizant Kotok 6:28

5M ago6:28

6:28

Spencer Barnhill reads his poem, "Hedge of Protection," and Rachel Prizant Kotok reads her poem, "Bat Mitzvah Dreams." Born and raised in Edmond, Oklahoma, Spencer is studying finance and English at Oklahoma Baptist University. He is an aspiring writer who loves long-distance running and meaningful storytelling, and will have poetry featured in Eks…

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Artist Tasha Cathey & Poet Barbara Krasner 6:37

5M ago6:37

6:37

Tasha Cathey introduces her visual artwork, "God's Underpaintings," and Barbara Krasner reads her poem, "In the Shtetl, G-d Does Not Only." Tasha Cathey lives in Knoxville, Tennessee with her husband and two children. Her work is inspired heavily from her years spent living in Arizona and California at a young age and are either composed purely fro…

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Celebrating the Freedom to Read: A Look Back at Past Adventures in Learning 56:58

5M ago56:58

56:58

Send us a text Happy New Year! Raise a glass as we celebrate the vibrant world of children's literature, featuring insights from 12 amazing authors and illustrators who have been guests on the pod. Savor these excerpts about the power of storytelling, the importance of connection, and the elephant in the room -- standing up for and celebrating the …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Rainbow Creative Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen