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    Tina Shepardson: Author, Teacher, Child Leadership Advocate

    The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Confident, Connected, and Resilient Kids

    What if the best leadership lessons came from kids themselves?

    Parent info: The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Confident, Connected, and Resilient Kids is recommended for ages 6-10 and 11 plus. It's an Episodic show that can be listened to in any order. Made in the USA, it's about Life Skills and Talk for kids. Launched in 2023, it has 3 seasons.

    There are 54 episodes

    Episodes
    The most recent appears first.

    • The Middle School Experience: Voices of Pueblo Middle's 6th Graders
      The Middle School Experience: Voices of Pueblo Middle's 6th Graders

      27 minSeason 3Episode 4927 May 2026

      In this special episode, 6th grade students from Pueblo Middle School share honest conversations about the real-life challenges and experiences kids face during the middle school years. From handling stress and pressure to building confidence, communication sk…

    • Recognizing Everyone's Worth With Laila
      Recognizing Everyone's Worth With Laila

      13 minSeason 3Episode 4818 March 2026

      Meet Laila, a 4th grader from Texas and the 2025 Junior Preteen State Title Holder with International United Miss — but her biggest title might just be "The Bright Light in the Room."

    • From Rescue to Reading: Easton's Story of Second Chances
      From Rescue to Reading: Easton's Story of Second Chances

      16 minSeason 3Episode 474 March 2026

      *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "11897c78-74db-435c-91ff-f9271b557d65" data-testid= "conversation-turn-5" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--head…

    • Finding the Right Ride: Perseverance, Empathy, and Leadership
      Finding the Right Ride: Perseverance, Empathy, and Leadership

      18 minSeason 3Episode 464 February 2026

      IIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift.

    • From the Field to the Stage: Mason Shows What's Possible
      From the Field to the Stage: Mason Shows What's Possible

      12 minSeason 3Episode 457 January 2026

      In our first 2026 episode, Mason shares how his love for acting, football, and basketball keeps him energized and motivated every day. He opens up about why treating others the way you want to be treated is the foundation of real leadership, and how staying ac…

    • When Art Meets Heart: Allie's Story
      When Art Meets Heart: Allie's Story

      13 minSeason 3Episode 453 December 2025

      Meet Allie, a third grader whose love for dance, modeling, and the arts shines as bright as her smile! Whether she's learning new dance moves with friends or helping others master theirs, Allie's enthusiasm and kindness make her a true Lil' Leader. She embrace…

    • We Either Win or Learn: Myra on the Spark of Failure
      We Either Win or Learn: Myra on the Spark of Failure

      19 minSeason 3Episode 4319 November 2025

      In this inspiring follow-up episode, Myra returns to the Lil' Leaders Podcast to share her powerful essay on failure in honor of National Failure Day. You might remember Myra from her first visit, when she told us how she created her nonprofit, Sparklez.org, t…

    • Navigating the New School Year with Michelle Blais
      Navigating the New School Year with Michelle Blais

      43 minSeason 3Episode 431 October 2025

      The new school year is exciting—but it also brings big changes, new routines, and sometimes worries for kids (and parents!). In this episode, Michelle Blais from @misschellemindset joins Tina to chat about how to help kids settle into their "new normal." From …

    • Art, Activism, and Inspiration with Kelcie
      Art, Activism, and Inspiration with Kelcie

      10 minSeason 3Episode 425 November 2025

      In this heartwarming episode, meet Kelcie—a young leader who brings creativity, kindness, and action together in amazing ways. Kelcie has written children's books inspired by her own life, even illustrating one using the digital art program Procreate. Her pass…

    • Cai & Waylon: A Gotcha Day To Remember
      Cai & Waylon: A Gotcha Day To Remember

      7 minSeason 3Episode 413 September 2025

      Welcome to Season 3's first episode! Meet Cai, a boy with a big heart and an even bigger dream—a dog of his very own! Join us as he shares the magical day he visited his local shelter with his mom and met Waylon, the pup who stole his heart. Cai talks about ho…

    • Myra's Mission: Big Heart, Bright Vision
      Myra's Mission: Big Heart, Bright Vision

      11 minSeason 2Episode 204 June 2025

      Meet Myra, a fifth-grade entrepreneur who proves you're never too young to make a difference. After watching videos from her mom's trip to India helping a school for visually impaired girls, Myra felt inspired to take action. She founded her own nonprofit—Spar…

    • Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter
      Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter

      17 minSeason 2Episode 2023 May 2025

      In this special episode, 6th graders at Pueblo Middle School team up to share the power habits they've been practicing to become confident, successful students and strong role models. From being proactive and solving problems to finding their voice and taking …

    • Veera's Return: A Voice For New Students
      Veera's Return: A Voice For New Students

      9 minSeason 2Episode 1821 May 2025

      Veera is back! Our first returning guest shares how her school year is wrapping up and what she's learned along the way. She talks about her role in the Envoy Program, where just two students per class help new kids feel welcome. From tips on making friends to…

    • Kidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way
      Kidlio Magazine: How Following Your Interests Can Lead the Way

      17 minSeason 2Episode 177 May 2025

      Meet this week's lil' leader, Durvin! At just 15 years old, he is already a seasoned editor and the founder of Kidlio Magazine, a creative project he started at age 10 to share his love of graphic design and storytelling. In this inspiring conversation, Dhurvi…

    • Growth Mindset Matters with Michelle Blais
      Growth Mindset Matters with Michelle Blais

      28 minSeason 2Episode 1616 April 2025

      What if every time your child said "I can't," they followed it with "...yet"? This week on Lil' Leaders, we're shining the spotlight on Michele Blais—our Big Leader Feature! Michele is not only an inspiring educator, but a powerful advocate for helping kids gr…

    • Click With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop Cyberbullying
      Click With Kindness: Ashley's Mission to Stop Cyberbullying

      12 minSeason 2Episode 152 April 2025

      Ashley, a high school junior, was excited to get her first cell phone, but she soon discovered that life online isn't always as great as it seems. Social media opened her eyes to both its benefits and the harsh reality of cyberbullying. Determined to make a di…

    • Teaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership Journey
      Teaching, Helping, Dreaming: A 4th Grader's Leadership Journey

      11 minSeason 2Episode 1419 March 2025

      Let's welcome Dhanvi today, a creative and compassionate 4th grader. She shines as a role model in her school and community. Whether she's playing soccer, painting, singing, or helping others, she puts her heart into everything she does. Inspired by her love f…

    • The Magic of Storytime with Rella B. Books
      The Magic of Storytime with Rella B. Books

      9 minSeason 2Episode 135 March 2025

      Today, we're introducing something exciting—Rella B Books! It all started with a mom's love for her daughter and a dream to create fun, educational content that makes learning feel like an adventure. What began as a way to share stories at home has grown into…

    • You Are Enough: A Fantastically Me Author & Lil' Readers' Chat
      You Are Enough: A Fantastically Me Author & Lil' Readers' Chat

      20 minSeason 2Episode 1219 February 2025

      This inspiring episode consisted of 2 continents: the United States and Australia, and 2 groups: the authors and readers!

    • Enza's Story: Leading With Voice & Kindness
      Enza's Story: Leading With Voice & Kindness

      10 minSeason 2Episode 115 February 2025

      Meet today's lil' leader, Enza, a thoughtful and respectful classmate who inspires others by leading with kindness.

    • Little Justice Leaders: Sparking Big Conversations For Change
      Little Justice Leaders: Sparking Big Conversations For Change

      12 minSeason 2Episode 1015 January 2025

      This week, we're sitting down with the incredibly dedicated Shelby, the creator of Little Justice Leaders, to talk about how they're creating the next generation of changemakers!

    • Balance & Joy: Olivia Genesis Leads Her Way
      Balance & Joy: Olivia Genesis Leads Her Way

      10 minSeason 2Episode 91 January 2025

      Welcome Olivia Genesis to today's episode!

    • Vindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being You
      Vindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being You

      11 minSeason 2Episode 818 December 2024

      In today's episode, we meet a talented and inspiring young guest named Vindhy! She loves Bollywood dancing, gymnastics, and singing. With a big dream of becoming a singer someday, she shares how being recognized as Student of the Month taught her the value of …

    • Paige's Journey: The Power of Trying
      Paige's Journey: The Power of Trying

      10 minSeason 2Episode 74 December 2024

      Have you ever tried something new and realized it wasn't for you? Today's guest, Paige, has been exploring her passions since she was just 3 years old! Whether it's dancing, acting, or modeling, Paige keeps trying new things—even when they don't always work o…

    • Parenting & Podcasting: Andi Smiley's Guide to Kid-Approved Listening
      Parenting & Podcasting: Andi Smiley's Guide to Kid-Approved Listening

      17 minSeason 2Episode 620 November 2024

      Today, we're so excited to welcome Andi Smiley to our Big Leader Feature! Andi is the creator of the Family Podcast Guide, a wonderful resource that helps parents find fun, educational podcasts for the whole family. She's here to share how her guide makes scre…

    • It Matters To Me: Harriet's Heart For Giving & Inclusion
      It Matters To Me: Harriet's Heart For Giving & Inclusion

      12 minSeason 2Episode 56 November 2024

      Welcome to today's episode!

    • Unlocking Reading Success: The Power of Eyewords
      Unlocking Reading Success: The Power of Eyewords

      21 minSeason 2Episode 416 October 2024

      Welcome to today's episode! I'm excited to introduce our guest, Jen Orr, the creator of Eyewords Learning. Jen developed a unique way to help kids learn to read by using the science of how our brains work best. Her program, Eyewords, combines seeing, hearing, …

    • Lifting Each Other Up: With Smiles and Teamwork
      Lifting Each Other Up: With Smiles and Teamwork

      13 minSeason 2Episode 32 October 2024

      Lifting Each Other Up : With Smiles And Teamwork What does it take to be a true leader in the face of challenges? Meet Sahasra, today's Lil' Leader! This incredible 7th grader has a heart full of empathy, always finding ways to help those in need. Even whe…

    • A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere
      A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere

      19 minSeason 2Episode 218 September 2024

      A Traveling Teacher: Helping Kids Learn Everywhere Meet Peter Panopolous, this week's Big Leader feature! After 12 years of classroom teaching, Peter pursued his next dream—teaching online to support kids who needed alternative learning options. In this ep…

    • Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader
      Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader

      9 minSeason 2Episode 14 September 2024

      Show Notes Big Heart, Brave Choices: Being a Friend and a Leader Meet Veera, our first Lil' Leader of the season! She's an elementary school student who loves helping others, even during her lessons. Supporting her peers and family is incred…

    • The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity
      The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity

      16 minSeason 1Episode 247 August 2024

      In this week's REPOST episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by to share a special family story. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created toge…

    • The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories
      The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories

      14 minSeason 1Episode 2317 July 2024

      We are revisiting with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and how Jill's voice, paired with engaging sound effects, brings stories to life, taking listeners o…

    • Season 1 Finale With A Podcast Scavenger Hunt
      Season 1 Finale With A Podcast Scavenger Hunt

      4 minSeason 1Episode 2119 June 2024

      A special thank you to everyone who made Season 1 a success and so much fun!

    • Through Every Child's Eyes: Celebrating Diversity
      Through Every Child's Eyes: Celebrating Diversity

      18 minSeason 1Episode 205 June 2024

      Life often seems like it's painted in black and white, but if we look closer, it's truly filled with vibrant colors—colors that come from our unique perceptions. Today, we're thrilled to introduce Celia Botto, the debut author of When Ayden Paints The Sky. Ins…

    • Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior
      Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior

      8 minSeason 1Episode 1915 May 2024

      In this week's REPOST episode, Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teacher is in class for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. This time of year the season is changing, kids see …

    • From Woofs to Wows: Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools
      From Woofs to Wows: Exploring the Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools

      28 minSeason 1Episode 171 May 2024

      We're super excited to introduce you to someone really special in today's big leader feature. Say hello to Dr. Barbara Vokatis, who's not only an amazing literacy professor but also a dog-loving therapist! She and her furry friend Carmel love visiting schools…

    • The Puppeteer's Toolbox: Enhancing Education Through Theatre
      The Puppeteer's Toolbox: Enhancing Education Through Theatre

      20 minSeason 1Episode 1617 April 2024

      Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Danny Gibbins, an incredibly talented teacher and puppeteer, renowned for her professional workshops that entertain and educate kids and teachers through her business, @dramazing_kids. Danny j…

    • The Magic of Mistakes and More with Shanda McCloskey
      The Magic of Mistakes and More with Shanda McCloskey

      16 minSeason 1Episode 153 April 2024

      Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Shanda McCloskey, an incredibly talented author/illustrator, renowned for her captivating children's books such as Doll-E 1.0, Nubby, and Little Red and the Big Bad Editor. Shanda joins us to …

    • Balancing Screentime: Expert Tips for Tech-Intentional Families
      Balancing Screentime: Expert Tips for Tech-Intentional Families

      28 minSeason 1Episode 1420 March 2024

      Today we are thrilled to bring you another big leader feature. Meet Emily Cherkin, also known as the ScreenTime Consultant and author of the acclaimed book, ScreenTime Solution: A Judgment-Free Guide to Becoming a tech-Intentional Family.

    • Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making
      Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making

      12 minSeason 1Episode 146 March 2024

      Repost: In this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet gi…

    • Beyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery
      Beyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery

      24 minSeason 1Episode 1321 February 2024

      Beyond the Canvas: Inspiring Creativity with Sean E. Avery Today, we're thrilled to introduce our first big feature leader! Welcome to author, illustrator, and art teacher, Sean E. Avery! If you've ever needed tips and tools to boost your creativity, explo…

    • Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers
      Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers

      13 minSeason 1Episode 123 July 2024

      Episode 12 Repost:

    • Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers
      Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers

      13 minSeason 1Episode 127 February 2024

      Show Notes Exploring Pages With Sister Bookstagrammers Welcome to this week's unforgettable literary journey with Paige and Laly, the dynamic duo behind @paigesandlalypops! Get ready to laugh, learn, and leap into the pages of amazing tales …

    • Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories
      Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories

      14 minSeason 1Episode 1017 January 2024

      Creating Characters: The Art of Voicing Children's Book Stories Welcome to this week's episode! We sat down with the amazing Jill Cofsky, a voice actor and primary grade reading intervention specialist. Discover the fascinating world of voice acting and ho…

    • Inclusive Recess: Making a Difference One Friendship at a Time
      Inclusive Recess: Making a Difference One Friendship at a Time

      11 minSeason 1Episode 93 January 2024

      In this week's episode, Essie shares her experiences of helping kids during recess who feel lonely and/or look sad. How? By listening to them and at the same time trying to figure out the best way to help. Inspired by the wonderful picture book, The Rabbit Li…

    • How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldrick's Fundraising
      How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldrick's Fundraising

      13 minSeason 1Episode 820 December 2023

      Today is a repost of our very first episode. In the spirit of giving this holiday season, listening to Bodie Centore share his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's over the last ten years is heartwarming , and may also help us think about an organization…

    • Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making
      Sisters Guiding Good Decision-Making

      12 minSeason 1Episode 86 December 2023

      In this week's episode, Kaya and Vivi share their experiences of modeling good behavior and decision-making when they are around their peers in and out of school. How? By showing them through actions and not telling them to be different. These sweet girls are …

    • Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior
      Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior

      8 minSeason 1Episode 715 November 2023

      In this week's episode,Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teachers for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, …

    • The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity
      The Lolly Shop: Building Dreams With Resilience and Unity

      16 minSeason 1Episode 61 November 2023

      In this week's episode, Baxter and Ethan stopped by for a visit. Currently in Austrailia, these young brothers share their story about the difficult times their family experienced during the pandemic and the project they created together to get them through wi…

    • Young Heart, Big Impact: Inspiring Acts of Empathy and Inclusion
      Young Heart, Big Impact: Inspiring Acts of Empathy and Inclusion

      10 minSeason 1Episode 518 October 2023

      In this week's episode, Kennedy stopped by for a visit. Currently in 6th grade, Kennedy shares her story about how she enjoys helping someone feel comfortable in new situations or sad ones. She is the person to help you find your way and she is happy to help. …

    • Holiday Harmony: Spreading Joy Through Song for the Elderly
      Holiday Harmony: Spreading Joy Through Song for the Elderly

      6 minSeason 1Episode 44 October 2023

      Welcome back! In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Alyssa with us. Currently in 5th grade, Alyssa shares her gift of time with her junior girl scout troup during the holiday season. The joy the elderly felt made this is a worthwhile experience she h…

    • How Courage And Creativity Lead The Way To Embracing E.O.E.
      How Courage And Creativity Lead The Way To Embracing E.O.E.

      11 minSeason 1Episode 220 September 2023

      In this week's episode, we are thrilled to have Logan visit us. Currently in 4th grade, he shares his journey with E.O.E., Eosinophilic Esophagitis, a rare gastrointestinal disease. From symptoms to diagnosis and beyond, Logan discovers through careful trial a…

    • How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldricks Fundraising
      How Empathy and Heart Led to St. Baldricks Fundraising

      13 minSeason 1Episode 16 September 2023

      In our inaugural episode, recent and accomplished, high school graduate, Bodie Centore shares his experiences fundraising for St. Baldrick's the last ten years. While he doesn't match the age range (K-6), he demonstrated such strong compassion, empathy, and le…

    • The Lil' Leader Podcast Trailer
      The Lil' Leader Podcast Trailer

      1 minSeason 1Trailer7 July 2023

      Lil' Leaders is a podcast for kids in grades K-6, that celebrates the traits, experiences, and actions that make leaders effective. We'll hear from real school-age students nationwide that are making an impact in our world today and close our time with a few…

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