We’re 50 episodes in so Molly Murphy, writer, producer and composer for Dorktales Storytime—and our host, Jonathan Cormur’s sister—has a special message about why storytelling and imagination are so incredibly important to the Dorktales’ Team:“We love making this podcast because we can tell all kids that everything they’re feeling is valid. We can give them tools for navigating the world, and stories to turn to where they can hear that they matter and they’re enough. We want to be that community for young people. We want Dorktales to be the space where kids can celebrate who they are without fear.” READ THE SPECIAL MESSAGE: https://jonincharacter.com/whats-the-why-behind-dorktales-storytime/THE MAGICAL DOORWAY, OUR 50TH EPISODE: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway/THANK YOU dear listeners—our Dork Squad—for continuing to explore the wonderful, wacky, wild world of Dorktales! Please feel free to reach out to us at dorktalesstorytime @gmail.com. Access social-emotional guides, activities, and more when you sign up for our FREE dorktales+ portal: jonincharacter.com/portalDorktales Storytime Podcast website:  https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/Support the show

Special Message: The WHY Behind Dorktales Storytime

On an otherwise normal day, a portal opens in a mysterious tree hidden in the very corners of a California redwood forest. Jonathan walks through the trunk and tumbles into the mystical, magical land of Once Upon a Time. Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog, who’s out on his daily walk around his hovel, encounters this lost human. The two discover their kinship and begin their quest to bring joy and understanding to others through stories. As the sun sets behind the Cliffhanger mountains, they set sail across the Fantasea in pursuit of their first storytelling adventures!Cue the confetti, it’s our 50th episode! For almost two years, we’ve been building our fictional “Once Upon a Time” universe—a place filled with Imagination where Jonathan and Mr. Redge take you on a journey of curiosity and acceptance – through fairy tales with a geeky twist, the histories of hidden heroes, and now, Dorktales lore stories! Our lore stories take you deeper into our anything-is-possible world-building. The Magical Doorway—our very first lore story–was inspired by our listener friend, Gael who asked, “How did Mr. Jonathan and Mr. Redge meet?”CONVERSATION STARTERS: A lore story is an opportunity to build fantastical immersive worlds, explain backstories, and breathe life into our expansive imaginations. After listening to this story, here are some questions you can ask:What was your favorite part of learning about the land of Once Upon a Time?If you were able to visit, what would you like to do there? If you lived in an imaginary land, what would it be called? MORE CONVERSATION STARTERS AND ACTIVITIES: Grab our FREE Dorktales+ Portal for cool conversation starters, social-emotional guides, use-your-imagination activities, themed playlists and more: jonincharacter.com/portalGo to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway   MR. REDGE’S HOTLINE ALERT! Our friend Jack from the Jack to the Future Podcast celebrated our 50th episode with us! He called our hotline because he’s curious to find out what Jonathan and Mr. Redge think about the future of storytelling and where they get all of their ideas. Learn more about Jack: https://linktr.ee/JtothefutureYOUR KIDS’ QUESTIONS could earn a shout out, inspire a future episode, or get featured in our Mr. Redge’s Hotline segment! Ways to contact us: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy – and a few laughs – please follow us so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. Keep the storytelling magic alive by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and perf

The Magical Doorway, a Dorktales Lore Story

Annoyed and anxious and angry, oh my! Looks like our friends from the Folktale Forest are on an emotional roller coaster, especially the Big Bad Wolf. He's so upset, he just wants to howl at the moon! Luckily, they encounter a caring capybara who patiently helps them sort through their big feelings and calm themselves down. Join Jonathan, Redge, and Big Bad as they learn how to understand one another, and huff and puff their stress away. PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: Recognizing overwhelming feelings is one of the first steps towards feeling better and managing stress. This is an original story that helps kids learn how to self-regulate. It covers many coping strategies and ends with a mindfulness exercise that will help young people move through their anxious feelings. We have a special grownup companion guide for this episode, “Are You Feeling Big Feelings?” It’s FREE when you sign up for our community mailing list: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/BigFeelingsGuideGo to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/big-bads-big-feelings Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/SPECIAL THANKS: Our caring capybara, Serena, is performed by Chanel Tsang, host of Peace Out Podcast, mindfulness stories for kids. Chanel is a Montessori educator, family supports practitioner, and yoga and mindfulness meditation guide. She created the Peace Out Podcast as a resource for parents and educators to promote social-emotional skills and introduce yoga and mindfulness to children: https://peaceoutpodcast.com/CONTACT MR. REDGE HOTLINE Grownups, have your kids contact us for a chance to appear in a future podcast episode: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: Advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson and edited by Molly Murphy. Jonathan, Mr. Redge and the Big Bad Wolf were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Special thanks to Chanel Tsang from Peace Out Podcast who voiced Serena. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton StudiosSupport the show

Big Bad’s Big Feelings

An epic quest to uncover an early video game pioneer! As a teen, Jerry Lawson was a self-taught electronics wiz—building ham radios, making walkie-talkies from scratch, and repairing his neighbor’s TVs. His love of new technologies brought him to California where he became one of the only Black engineers in Silicon Valley. While there, he changed the course of the video game industry with his revolutionary invention—the Channel F game console with interchangeable cartridges. Today, his legacy is paving the way for a new generation of inventive engineers!Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/jerry-lawson  Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Grownups, have your kids contact us for a chance to appear in a future episode: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!PODFRIENDS: We want to introduce you to another storytelling podcast we think you’ll enjoy: African Folktales with Miss JoJo! It’s a Webby Award-winning children’s podcast of diverse short stories originating in Africa. Find more on their website: https://www.abfc.co/shows/african-folktales/KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Jerry Lawson, Hidden Hero of History

Two traveling dudes mindlessly meander down a path when they awaken ferocious O, a ginormous growling bear, from his peaceful slumber! Will these best bro buddies help each other to safety when the bear barrels towards them in full bluster? Or will one have to learn a righteous lesson about who he can truly count on when things get tough?PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is our reimagining of the Aesop fable, “The Two Travelers and a Bear.” The theme of this story is “What is a true friend?” Good friends don’t just care about themselves. And true friends stick by you when things are going right, and when things are going wrong. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/bear-weather-friendsMR. REDGE’S HOTLINE ALERT! After the story, listener Ella Grace, age 7, calls the Mr. Redge Hotline to ask about her favorite character, the Big Bad Wolf! Timestamp: 14: 52CONTACT MR. REDGE HOTLINE Grownups, have your kids contact us for a chance to appear in a future podcast Episode: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!PODFRIENDS:  We want to introduce you to another audio fiction podcast for kids we think you’ll enjoy: Ben & Sophie: Woby’s Secret! It’s a mysteriously funny audio adventure by Spoken Movie Project. Find more at spokenmoviewproject.com and on Instagram @spokenmovieprojectKIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studios. Support the show

Bear-Weather Friends

A story of diving, discovery, and the Shark Lady! Fascinated by marine life as a child, Eugenie Clark grew to become a leading ichthyologist who changed the way scientists study ocean life. Throughout her career, she conducted 72 submersible dives, led more than 200 field expeditions, and pioneered the practice of underwater research through scuba diving. She cared deeply for sharks, swimming among them (and riding on the back of a 50-foot whale shark) in order to understand their behaviors. She inspired the public's curiosity, awe, and wonder, turning the tides on what we thought we knew about these misunderstood ocean creatures. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/eugenie-clark Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/PODFRIENDS: We want to introduce you to another storytelling podcast we think you’ll enjoy: ABC Story Sisters! Join sisters Alexa, Bristol and Charlotte as they bring classic children’s literature to life for kids…and kids at heart. Season 4 flies you off to Neverland for the story of Peter Pan. Go to abcstorysisters.com and follow them on Instagram @abcstorysisters FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Eugenie Clark, Hidden Hero of History

Harumph! Why is a new neighbor making Mr. Redge’s quills stand on end? Maybe his outlook will change after hearing the story of the pompous peacock who struts his fine feathers while prejudging the friendly crane. Will he connect with the crane’s advice to stay open minded, or will he stand firm with his first fowl impression? PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is our reimagining of the fable, “The Peacock and the Crane.” Seeing past the surface is the lesson of this story. Sometimes we tell ourselves that our value is only skin deep and it makes us feel insecure. We can also be too quick to cast judgments on others before we get to know them. It’s character that matters. Be thoughtful and kind to yourself and others.Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/fowl-first-impression Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studios. Support the show

A Fowl First Impression

A seafaring tale of daring do in a long dress and petticoats! At the young age of 15, Ida Lewis helped her father with his lighthouse keeper’s duties on Lime Rock. She grew to become the small island’s sole keeper responsible for protecting and guiding ships to safe harbor. Throughout her life, Ida fearlessly rowed her small skiff out in rough storms and icy waters to rescue people (and a sheep). She became famous after saving two drowning soldiers in a snowstorm and was named, “the bravest woman in America.” But the lighthouse, not the limelight, was where Ida Lewis found her lifelong happiness. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/ida-lewisVisit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Ida Lewis, Hidden Hero of History

“Question everything!” That’s Rapunzel’s motto. The princess from Mythdom breaks all fairy tale stereotypes when she tells the story that her time in the tower was for scientific innovation and experimentation. Her patented, three-step, hair strengthening system could win her a STEM scholarship! Can she shimmy down the tower’s trellis and make her way through the peat bog path to get to the science fair in time? PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:This is our reimagining of the fairy tale “Rapunzel.” The character, Rapunzel, breaks traditional princess stereotypes, demonstrating a passion for STEM, especially science and invention. It encourages being curious, asking questions, keeping an open mind and not holding onto oversimplified views of people or ideas. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/rapunzelVisit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson and edited by Molly Murphy. Jonathan and Mr. Redge characters performed by Jonathan Cormur.  Rapunzel performed by Melissa Victor from Stoopkid Stories. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Rapunzel, Rapunzel, Let Down Your Science Experiment?!

A tale of storytelling magic and handmade puppets from the Bronx to the Lower East Side! Pura Belpré was the very first Puerto Rican librarian hired by the New York Public Library. She was an advocate for Spanish-speaking communities and was responsible for introducing bilingual story hours, authoring children’s stories in Spanish, and releasing the first book of translated Puerto Rican folktales in the U.S. Ms. Belpré was a visionary whose literary programs kept new generations connected to their Hispanic culture and showed all children that their stories matter!¡Una historia de magia narrativa y marionetas hechas a mano desde el Bronx hasta el Lower East Side! Pura Belpré fue la primera bibliotecaria puertorriqueña contratada por la Biblioteca Pública de Nueva York. Fue una defensora de las comunidades de habla hispana y fue responsable de introducir horas de cuentos bilingües, escribir cuentos infantiles en español y publicar el primer libro de cuentos populares puertorriqueños traducido en los EE. UU. La Sra. Belpré fue una visionaria cuyos programas literarios mantuvieron conectadas a las nuevas generaciones con su cultura hispana y mostró a todos los niños que sus historias importan!Get transcripts in Spanish: https://bit.ly/ep42transcript_es Go to the episode webpage:  https://jonincharacter.com/pura-belpreVisit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/ FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales BE PART OF OUR DORK SQUAD, FREE PERKS: https://bit.ly/dorktales-signup CREDITS: This has been a Jonincharacter production. The Hidden Heroes of History episode was written by Molly Murphy. Jonathan and Mr. Redge were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Special thanks to guest actor, Erika Ludwig who voiced Isabella, the bear. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.Support the show

Pura Belpré, Hidden Hero of History

It’s the Folktale Forest’s annual Diamond Pitch Pennant! Mr. Redge is upset that his team, the Woodland Wonders, lost their first game. He’s sure that he alone is the reason his team is known as the understory underdogs. It takes the tale of one parched yet patient hedgehog with a brilliant idea to prove to him that his one, two, three strikes you’re out experience is why he’s the team’s M.A.C (Most Awesome Critter)! PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:This is our reimagining of the fable “The Crow and the Pitcher.” It’s a story about creative problem solving that leads to the understanding that success comes from practicing and building your skills step by step (or stone by stone according to the fable). It’s also an opportunity to reframe failure as a chance to learn and grow.Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/hedgehogs-home-run/ Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

A Hedgehog’s Home Run

In honor of Black History Month, we share an encore of our most popular Hidden Hero of History episode about George Washington Carver: It’s a story of perseverance and the power of plants! Despite the barriers thrust upon him, George Washington Carver overcame society’s challenges to ultimately become one of the nation’s leading botanists and agricultural inventors. Did you know he discovered over 300 uses for the peanut? Carver used his celebrity to speak on racial harmony, hoping to leave the world a better place.This episode includes discussions about slavery and systemic racism. Links to resources for talking to children about these issues are on the episode webpage. The script for this episode about George Washington Carver was reviewed by a sensitivity reader from SensitivityReviews.com database. Find more information about George Washington Carver and resources for talking to children about slavery: https://jonincharacter.com/george-washington-carver/BLACK HISTORY MONTH PLAYLIST: https://bit.ly/BHMplaylist2022 YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/ FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Encore: George Washington Carver, Hidden Hero of History!

After worrying that the forest creatures don't respect him, Mr. Wolf exits his cave at sunset and is surprised by his new fearsome and formidable shadow. Feeling large and in charge for the first time, he struts about declaring he’s now the forest’s fiercest foe! It takes the setting sun and one small sparrow to break his illusion, and help him realize he’s already admired for being his authentic ol’ softy self.PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is our retelling of the fable “The Wolf and His Shadow” with a self-acceptance message. The lesson is that your worth is not measured by your outward appearances, so you don’t need to pretend to be someone you’re not so others will like and respect you. Believe in yourself and take pride in who you are.  Find more information and resources: https://jonincharacter.com/mr-wolfs-penumbra/Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Mr. Wolf’s Penumbra

Two stories of trailblazing triumphs! Helen Liu Fong and Norma Merrick Sklarek broke new ground in building design to become two of the most innovative architects of the 20th Century. Talent and a never-give-up attitude were their blueprints for overcoming gender and racial discrimination in their professions, and served as the building blocks for their distinguished careers. Their lifetime of extraordinary accomplishments lives on in their architectural works, many considered cultural icons to this day.Find more information and resources: https://jonincharacter.com/innovative-architects/ Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/ FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales BE PART OF OUR DORK SQUAD, FREE PERKS: https://bit.ly/dorktales-signup CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Innovative Architects, Hidden Heroes of History

Listener Favorites’ Encore! Is the fancy fabric for the emperor’s new clothes really invisible to those who are not worthy? Or is this a case of double-dealing dupery by two wily weavers? As the emperor struts his stylish self through the streets of his kingdom, it will take one forthright boy to blurt out the naked truth.PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is a retelling of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” and the lessons learned are that everyone makes mistakes, even an emperor, who admits his error and laughs with the crowd when he discovers he’s made an embarrassing mistake in judgement.Find more information and resources: https://jonincharacter.com/the-emperors-new-quills/Season 3 begins on January 13, 2022! Until then, visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website for our complete library of reimagined fairy tales and true hidden hero Stories: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Encore: The Emperor’s New Quills

Hey fellow story lovers! This is Jonathan Cormur tumbling into your pod feed to let you know that Season 3 of the Dorktales Storytime Podcast will begin on January 13th. And just like our friends at Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, we’ll be unlocking new fairytales, fables and untold hero stories that will surprise you! Prepare for unexpected special guests! Find geeky twists and turns around every tale! Come with me and Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog, into OUR world of pure imagination. Follow our pod and find a link in the show notes to sign up for our newsletter and you’ll be the first to know when our scrumdiddlyumptious Season 3 begins! Until then, enjoy the entire Dorktales Storytime listening library of reinvented fairy tales and hero stories: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you let others know about our geeky tales too.JOIN OUR DORK SQUAD MAILING LIST: https://bit.ly/dorktales-signup WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales)

Season 3 Announcement!

Life in the Folktale Forest is merry and bright! Jonathan made a glorious holiday feast—including his pop-in-the-oven crescent rolls and his Aunt Mary Ann’s famous sugar cookie recipe—so he and Mr. Redge can grab a plate, gather by the crackling fire, and settle in to hear some Christmas cheer. Join the holiday happiness as they listen to “A Cratchit Christmas” from the Girl Tales Podcast!  Girl Tales has reimagined Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in this charming story about how Belinda Cratchit and her siblings, using Belinda's inventions and their collective creativity, change Scrooge’s miserly heart and teach us all lessons in love and kindness.Find more Girl Tales episodes: https://girltalespodcast.com/HEY DORK SQUAD! Mr. Redge and Jonathan will be back to bring you Season 3 in January 2022! Until then, enjoy the entire Dorktales Storytime listening library of reinvented fairy tales and hero stories: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you let others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK:https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesJOIN OUR DORK SQUAD:https://bit.ly/dorktales-signupCREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. Today’s introduction was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur.  Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Sound Studios. Special thanks to Girl Tales for letting us share their original holiday story, A Cratchit Christmas. You can find more of their stories wherever you listen to podcasts.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales)

A Cratchit Christmas from Girl Tales

Pull up a log, gather ‘round the campfire with your cocoa and get ready for the Jolly Holly Day Spectacular! Jolly Holly has been passed down through generations of Folktale Forest hedgehogs—a day for sharing the year’s joyful moments, and the experiences that make hearts sing. Mr. Redge hosts this reason-for-the-season celebration filled with happy hedgehog traditions, podfriend guest appearances, and the debut of a hit holiday song by famous bird crooners, the Branch Sisters!SHARE YOUR JOLLY HOLLY: Write or draw your “Jolly Holly” and send it to us and we’ll share it on social media. Download the Jolly Holly color page: https://bit.ly/myjollyholly  HOW TO GET THE JOLLY HOLLY HEDGEHOG HOLIDAY SONG: https://bit.ly/jolly-holly-song PODFRIENDS IN THIS EPISODE: Thank you to our fellow Kids Listen podcast creators who shared their Jolly Hollys in this episode – Mr. Eric | What If WorldChad | America’s Test Kitchen’s Mystery RecipePhoebe and Hank | The Adventures of Power Dog in DoglandLeela and Lyndee | Newsy PoolooziNate | REACH a Space Podcast for KidsMelly | Stoopkid StoriesRebecca | Girl TalesChanel | Peace Out PodcastBethany | The Ten NewsFind more information and resources:  https://jonincharacter.com/jolly-holly-hedgehog/      Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/CREDITS:It’s a wrap on our first holiday show! We have so many creative folks to thank for putting this bonus episode together –Storyteller and Character Voices: Jonathan CormurProducer and Scriptwriter: Molly MurphySound Recording and Production: Jermaine Hamilton from Hamilton Sound StudiosJolly Holly Hedgehog Holiday Song by: Molly Murphy and Phil HarrisPerformed by: The Branch Sisters—Kristin Schmitz, Monique Hafen-Adams and Molly MurphyComposer: Molly MurphyGuitar: Jo KrogerBanjo and Musical Saw: Phil HarrisClarinet: Stefanie SchmitzFanfare Trumpet Announcement Effect #3 by SoundEffectsFactory via YouTube WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales)

Jolly Holly Hedgehog

Who’s on board to help Little Redge Hen sow some seeds, harvest the wheat, and grind it in to flour? “NOT I,” say the unbelievably unconcerned cow, the overly obstinate ostrich, and the sourly stubborn sheep, who are focused on their own selfish ways. Will the barnyard besties finally step up, or will Hen’s freshly baked bread fill them with the smell of regret?PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is a retelling of “The Little Red Hen” where you’ll find fun examples of alliterative word pairings to describe the farm animals. This story is a conversation starter about collaboration and teamwork, getting to share in the rewards when you help do the work, and the feelings of regret.Find more information and resources:  https://jonincharacter.com/little-redge-hen/     Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktalesBE PART OF OUR DORK SQUAD, FREE PERKS:https://bit.ly/dorktales-signupCREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

The Little Redge Hen

A story of an extraordinary mission of mail and morale! Overcoming the prejudice of her time, Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams became the first Black woman to command her own battalion in World War II. Known as the “Six Triple Eight,” she and 855 Black female soldiers were assigned to take up a lost cause - sending 17 million warehoused letters and packages to the soldiers who were longing to hear from their loved ones. Though challenged with troops constantly on the move, thousands of common names, and missing addresses, the dedicated Six Triple Eight delivered the impossible in record time!Find more information and resources:  https://jonincharacter.com/six-triple-eight/      Visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/YOUR KIDS ON OUR SHOW: Contact our “Mr. Redge Hotline” for a chance for a shout out or featured in one of our episodes! Leave us a voicemail, email, video or use our color page - https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/FOLLOW US: If our storytelling brings you some joy…and a few laughs, please follow us in your preferred podcast app so future episodes will automatically show up in your podcast library. We’d be so grateful if you helped us grow, by letting others know about our geeky tales too.Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!KIDS LISTEN MEMBERS: advocates for quality podcasts for kids: https://www.kidslisten.org/WE LOVE FEEDBACK: https://ratethispodcast.com/dorktales BE PART OF OUR DORK SQUAD, FREE PERKS: https://bit.ly/dorktales-signup CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. Support the show

Dorktales Storytime Podcast

Dorktales Storytime Podcast

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