The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Kids

Tina Shepardson
  • 3.7 (3)
  • Stories for Kids
  • Updated Monthly

What if the best leadership lessons came from kids themselves? Welcome to the Lil' Leaders Podcast, where children share real stories and everyday experiences that reveal the leadership skills they're developing through friendships, challenges, successes, and everyday moments. Hosted by award-winning teacher and children's author Tina Shepardson, each episode features authentic conversations with kids about building confidence, developing communication skills, strengthening friendship skills, practicing teamwork, growing resilience, kindness, empathy, and responsibility. Together, we explore questions many parents wonder about as their children grow and develop: -How do I help my child become more confident? -How can kids develop leadership skills? -How do children learn to use responsibility and independence consistently? -How can I help my child improve communication skills? -What helps build resilience in children trying to bounce back from setbacks? -What helps kids become better decision-makers and strengthen their problem solving skills? -How can parents help children build healthy friendships, social and teamwork skills? -How do I help my child develop kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence? Whether your child is outgoing or quietly finding their voice, this podcast celebrates the belief that every child develops leadership through everyday moments, learning to use their strengths to make a positive difference in the world around them. If you're interested in helping kids become leaders, raising confident kids, and supporting children as they develop communication, resilience, empathy, and thoughtful decision making skills, you're in the right place. Subscribe and join us as we discover that leadership isn't set aside for someday—it's something children practice through everyday moments. Join our newsletter for resources, activities, and encouragement for raising confident, kind, and capable kids: [https://tinashepardson.com/join-the-club/]

  1. May 27

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

    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 skills, community, and responsible decision-making, students explore important life skills that can help kids navigate this stage of life with growth and authenticity. Through personal insights, thoughtful discussions, and relatable experiences, these students offer encouragement and practical ideas for other kids learning to manage friendships, expectations, emotions, and everyday challenges along the way. Cool Q's For Discussion: What is one thing kids can do to help someone feel included at school or in a group? When you start to feel overwhelmed or stressed, what helps you calm down or reset? Can you share a time when you struggled with something at first but improved because you kept trying?   Why do you think listening is just as important as speaking when talking with friends, classmates, or family? What is something about yourself that makes you proud to be uniquely you? What are some ways kids can use technology and social media in a kind, safe, and responsible way? What is your main takeaway from today's episode?               What is your main takeaway from today's episode?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    28 min

  2. Mar 18

    Recognizing Everyone's Worth With Laila

    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." After experiencing what it feels like when kids don't accept differences, Laila made a powerful choice. Instead of shrinking back, she let that experience become her superpower. She's now on a mission to help kids recognize everyone's worth through KREW — Kids Recognizing Everyone's Worth — and by writing her very first children's book, The Buddy Bench, a story about making sure no child ever feels alone. Laila shares how she turned hurt into purpose, why celebrating differences brings us together (not apart), and how even one child can spark change in a school community. When she's not dancing, crafting, or enjoying school, she's finding ways to spread joy wherever she goes. This episode is a reminder that leadership doesn't depend on age — it starts with heart.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Buddy Bench Author: Laila LaRue Lewis                                    Illustrator: QBN Studios What if a friendship bench at recess could change a child's day — or even their life? The Buddy Bench is a heartwarming children's picture book that teaches young readers the importance of kindness, friendship, and inclusion. Inspired by real-life buddy benches found on school playgrounds, this story helps children understand that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. When a child sits on the buddy bench, it's a brave step toward connection and friendship. Through gentle storytelling and relatable moments, children learn how small acts of kindness can make a big difference--and how choosing to include others creates stronger, more compassionate communities.   b. Be Kind Author: Pat Zietlow Miller                                       Illustrator: Thérèse Plummer                            When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind? From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend. With a gentle text from the award-winning author of Sophie's Squash, Pat Zietlow Miller, Be Kind is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world.   Cool Q's For Discussion: Laila turned a hard experience into her superpower. What is something hard in your life that could become your strength? What does it mean to "recognize everyone's worth"? What might that look like at school? If your school had a Buddy Bench, how could you help make sure no one feels alone? How can celebrating differences actually bring people closer together? If you created your own version of KREW, what would your group stand for? What is your main takeaway from Laila's episode?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    13 min

  3. Mar 4

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

    *]: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(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-699b221e-4814-8326-af59-cc3058eaed19-13" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> What happens when a teacher, a love of reading, and a rescue puppy come together? This week on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, we're thrilled to feature a special Big Leader episode with teacher, author, and rescue advocate Elizabeth Retter, who shares how rescuing Easton as a puppy from Pennsylvania and bringing him home to Canada changed her life in the most unexpected ways. After one unforgettable morning — when Easton confidently made his way to a local deli on his own — Liz realized their journey was about more than rescue. It was about creating meaningful stories that help kids love reading and inspire families to consider rescue. She also shares how kids and families can make a difference through volunteering, fostering, donating, or adopting.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Dog in the Deli (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,1) Author: Elizabeth Retter                          Illustrator: Izzy Bean This heartwarming story introduces us to Easton on the first of his many adventures with his owner Elizabeth Retter and her family. One morning, Easton wakes up to some terrible news: due to the pandemic, there is a meat shortage! In a panic, Easton takes matters into his own paws and escapes across a busy city street to the neighborhood deli. Easton's family, the deli, and its customers have no idea what they are in for―then again, neither does Easton! This is the true story of a rescue dog who loves a good adventure.   b. Homeward Bound (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,2) Author: Elizabeth Retter                          Illustrator: Izzy Bean                                Easton is a rescue dog who was born in Pennsylvania and adopted by the author, Elizabeth, and her family in Toronto, Canada. Based on personal experience, this story follows Easton on a new adventure as he travels to meet his new family and settles into his new home. The book stresses the importance of adopting rescue pets, and will be a fabulous read aloud for dog lovers ― and their companion children ― to enjoy. Homeward Bound is only the beginning of Easton's adventures, with more books coming in 2025.   c. Puppy School Pandemonium (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,3) Author: Elizabeth Retter                         Illustrator: Izzy Bean Ready for a tail-wagging adventure? Easton, the lovable rescue pup, is about to tackle his biggest challenge yet―puppy school! From learning new tricks to meeting furry friends, Easton's excitement might just get the best of him. Cheer Easton on while he discovers the importance of patience, perseverance, and second chances. Will Easton stay on track long enough to graduate?   d. Christmas Capers (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,4) Author: Elizabeth Retter                          Illustrator: Izzy Bean Cool Q's For Discussion: What do you think Liz learned about herself after rescuing Easton?      2. Why do you think stories can help people care more about rescue animals?      3. If you were going to help a local animal shelter, what is one small step you could take with your family?      4. What does "second chance" mean to you — for animals or for people?      5. How can loving to read help you make a difference in the world?      6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Liz & Easton?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    17 min

  4. Feb 4

    Finding the Right Ride: Perseverance, Empathy, and Leadership

    IIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift. Meet an ostrich who doesn't quite fit the mold and is trying to find his way back—only to discover that finding the right ride isn't easy. The ostrich is well aware of any accommodations he may need to get home safely. In fact, despite the setbacks he faces, the ostrich keeps going and young readers see perseverance in action. Celia also shares the thoughtful layer of the story involving a boy who discovers the ostrich and makes a powerful leadership choice: to act rather than react. Through empathy, courage, and problem-solving, the boy shows what it means to step up when someone else needs help. With bright, colorful illustrations and a relatable message, this episode is a fun and hope-filled conversation about persevering through challenges, showing empathy, and taking action when it matters most.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Snurtch Author: Sean Ferrell                           Illustrator: Charles Santoso Some days are Snurtch days. Ruthie is having one of those. She has a problem at school. It is not the students. It is not the classroom. It is not the reading or the writing or the math. It is something scribbly, scrunchy, grabby, burpy, and rude. It is the Snurtch. This clever picture book takes a discerning look at the challenges of behaving and controlling your emotions—especially when your own personal monster keeps getting in the way.   b. Ricky, The Rock That Couldn't Roll Author: Mr. Jay                   Illustrator: Erin Wozniak                                  From zippy little pebbles to big strong boulders, the rock friends get together to play and roll around their favorite hill, only to find that one of their friends, Ricky, can't roll with them. Unlike all of the other rocks, who are all round, Ricky can't roll because he's flat on one side. Determined not to leave their friend behind, the rocks set out to help Ricky roll - one way or another.   Cool Q's For Discussion: Have you ever felt like you didn't quite "fit in"? What helped you keep going anyway?      2. If you found the ostrich, what is the first helpful action you would take?      3. What does it mean to act instead of react when someone needs help?      4. Why do you think perseverance is important when things don't go as planned?      5. Who is someone in your life that shows empathy through their actions?      6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Celia?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    19 min

  5. Jan 7

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

    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 active helps him stay confident. When life feels busy or overwhelming, Mason turns to deep breaths and drawing to calm his mind before jumping back into the activities he loves. His message to other kids is simple but powerful: anything you do can inspire someone else — so keep showing the world what's possible. Listen to Mason's episode and be reminded that leadership starts with kindness and inclusion.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. Hurry Up!: A Book About Slowing Down Author: Kate Dopirak                            Illustrator: Christopher Silas Neal A busy boy and his dog learn to slow down and enjoy life together in this lyrical, rhyming picture book perfect for hurried families everywhere. For one busy boy, life is all hurry up, hurry down, hurry round and round and round! That is until he takes a big breath...and a big break...and slows down to see all the wonderful things in the world around him.   b. Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage To Be Who You Are Author: Maria Dismondy                     Illustrator: Kim Shaw                                  Lucy has big hair, eats fun foods and is teased by a boy named Ralph at school because she is different. She tries to be brave but she wishes the teasing would stop. What should I do? she asks herself over and over.  Lucy's Papa Gino reminds her to do the right thing and treat people with kindness. So when Ralph gets stuck on the playground and needs help, will Lucy use this chance to teach Ralph a lesson? Or will she have the courage to be true to herself and make the right choice with an act of kindness? Readers of all ages can empathize with Lucy's brave journey as she sets out to rise above Ralph's mean words, stay true to herself and build her self-esteem every step of the way.   Cool Q's For Discussion: What helps you calm down when life feels busy or overwhelming?      2. What's one way you showed kindness or fairness to someone this week?      3. What activities make you feel energized and confident?      4. Who inspires you, and how do you try to inspire others?      5. Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel included? What happened?      6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Mason?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    13 min

  6. 12/03/2025

    When Art Meets Heart: Allie's Story

    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 embraces every challenge in her dance classes and believes in following big dreams—like one day becoming a doctor. Tune in to hear how Allie's creativity, confidence, and caring heart inspire everyone around her to keep learning and growing.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. Most Marshmallows Author &  Illustrator: Rowboat Watkins Most marshmallows are born into marshmallow families, play with marshmallow friends, and go to marshmallow school where they learn to be squishy. Most marshmallows read a book before bed and then fall asleep to dream ordinary marshmallow dreams. But, this book isn't about most marshamallows, is it? No. That's because author Rowboat Watkins knows that, just like you, some marshmallows have big dreams, and just like you, these marshmallows can do anything they set their minds to. This sweet and silly book is an inspiring reminder to everyone that by being true to ourselves, each of us has the power to be extraordinary. Whether for a new parent or a recent graduate, the message here will fit the bill.   b. The Path Author & Illustrator: Bob Staake                                    On this playfully illustrated journey with Bob Staake, children and adults alike will discover an encouraging truth: our path through life is not only challenging and beautiful—it is all our own to discover and invent. "You will walk. You will walk along a well-worn path that many people have taken—and long before you." So begins this inspirational journey over gentle, grassy hills, through fields of wildflowers, over raging rivers, up steep mountains, and even through a dark, chilly cave. When it splits in two, you will have to decide what to do next—and you'll create a path that's unique to you.   Cool Q's For Discussion: What's something creative you love to do, just like Allie?      2. How do you feel when you try a new skill or hobby?      3. Who's someone you've helped learn something new recently?      4. What big dream do you have for your future?      5. Why do you think helping others can make you a stronger leader?      6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Allie?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    14 min

  7. 11/19/2025

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

    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, to help raise money for a girls' school in India and reminded us that we're never too young to make a difference. This time, Myra opens up about how failure isn't the opposite of success—it's part of it. She shares how losing at nationals for her health app invention and in dance competitions taught her to focus not on what she didn't achieve, but on how much she grew simply by trying. Her favorite quote by Maya Angelou—"I never lose. I either win or I learn."—reminds her that failing helps us think creatively, build resilience, and grow stronger. Join us as Myra dives into what it means to learn from mistakes, why creativity often begins when things go wrong, and how failure can be one of the most powerful teachers in life.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes Authors: Mark Pett & Gary Rubenstein                    Illustrator: Mark Pett Being perfect is overrated. Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake. She never forgets her math homework, she never wears mismatched socks, and she ALWAYS wins the yearly talent show at school. In fact, the entire town calls her The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes! One day, the inevitable happens: Beatrice makes a huge mistake in front of everyone! But in the end, readers (and perfectionists) will realize that life is more fun when you enjoy everything—even the mistakes.   b. Yay! You Failed! Author & Illustrator: Shannon Anderson               Illustrator:  Steve Mark                                Celebrate mistakes and setbacks! In Yay! You Failed!, young readers learn how to set goals, overcome challenges, build resilience, and believe in themselves. Simple "you-can-do-it" strategies in this book can help kids learn: why practice makes progress, not perfect ways to keep going when the going gets tough how to set and achieve goals tips for looking on the bright side and staying positive Yay! You Failed! is a growth mindset chapter book that will appeal to kids beginning to read independently. With its humorous and light-hearted tone, kids are encouraged to develop the life skills needed to set goals and overcome challenges. Includes a glossary of terms to support children's vocabulary growth.   Cool Q's For Discussion: Myra says that failing teaches us things we wouldn't learn otherwise. Can you think of a time when something didn't go as planned but ended up teaching you something valuable?         2. Her favorite quote is "I never lose, I either win or I learn." What does that mean to you?         3.Myra learned to focus on growth instead of what she didn't achieve. What's one way you           could do the same next time something doesn't go perfectly?         4. She says creativity often starts when something has gone wrong. Can you think of an                example where a mistake led to a great idea?          5. Myra reminds us that our real strength is how we handle disappointment. How do you                 handle it when you feel disappointed, and what helps you move forward?           6. What is your main takeaway from today's episode with Myra?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    19 min

  8. 11/05/2025

    Art, Activism, and Inspiration with Kelcie

    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 passion for helping others led her to fundraise for koalas after the devastating fires in Australia, and her role model is none other than Dr. Opal Lee, the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," whom she was honored to meet in person. Tune in as Kelcie shares how she uses her voice, her art, and her heart to make a difference. Her story is a reminder that no matter your age, you can take action, inspire others, and spread kindness in the world.   Picture Book Recommendations: a. When Digz the Dog Met Zurl the Squirrel: A Short Tale About a Short Tail Authors: Chris Pine                                      Illustrator: Chuck Groenink Digz the Dog is certain that he is the king of Ms. Pincher's garden. There's just one problem . . . Zurl the Squirrel is positive that she is the queen of Ms. Pincher's Garden. As a dog and a squirrel, the two are natural enemies. But there's more to Digz and Zurl than meets the eye. Digz was once a lonely dog left at the pound. And Zurl has her fair share of insecurities too. When the two come face-to-face in a showdown, they realize. . . they might not be so different.   b. Give It! Author & Illustrator: Cinders McLeod                                                 In this delightful introduction to simple money concepts, an enthusiastic young bunny discovers how good it feels to use his allowance to help others. Chummy longs to be a superhero. He wants to save the world--or at least Bunnyland--from dragons, so spending his carrots on a superhero costume seems like a great plan! When his grandma reminds him that there aren't any dragons in Bunnyland, but that there are creatures that could use help, Chummy starts reconsidering the best way to spend his wad. This is the fourth book in the internationally acclaimed Moneybunny Books series that also includes Earn It!, Spend It!, and Save It!   Cool Q's For Discussion: Kelcie used her creativity to write and even illustrate books—how can you use your talents to inspire or help others?      2. She fundraised for koalas after the fires in Australia—what cause would you want to                     support, and how might you do it?      3. Kelcie looks up to Dr. Opal Lee, the founder of Juneteenth—who is someone you admire,           and why?      4.Her stories are based on her own life—if you wrote a story about your life, what part                    would you want to share first?      5.Kelcie shows kindness through both big and small actions—what's one small act of                      kindness you can do this week?      6. What is your main takeaway from Kelcie's episode today?   Have a great week everyone! Keep Leading and Keep Reading, Tina

    10 min
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About

What if the best leadership lessons came from kids themselves? Welcome to the Lil' Leaders Podcast, where children share real stories and everyday experiences that reveal the leadership skills they're developing through friendships, challenges, successes, and everyday moments. Hosted by award-winning teacher and children's author Tina Shepardson, each episode features authentic conversations with kids about building confidence, developing communication skills, strengthening friendship skills, practicing teamwork, growing resilience, kindness, empathy, and responsibility. Together, we explore questions many parents wonder about as their children grow and develop: -How do I help my child become more confident? -How can kids develop leadership skills? -How do children learn to use responsibility and independence consistently? -How can I help my child improve communication skills? -What helps build resilience in children trying to bounce back from setbacks? -What helps kids become better decision-makers and strengthen their problem solving skills? -How can parents help children build healthy friendships, social and teamwork skills? -How do I help my child develop kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence? Whether your child is outgoing or quietly finding their voice, this podcast celebrates the belief that every child develops leadership through everyday moments, learning to use their strengths to make a positive difference in the world around them. If you're interested in helping kids become leaders, raising confident kids, and supporting children as they develop communication, resilience, empathy, and thoughtful decision making skills, you're in the right place. Subscribe and join us as we discover that leadership isn't set aside for someday—it's something children practice through everyday moments. Join our newsletter for resources, activities, and encouragement for raising confident, kind, and capable kids: [https://tinashepardson.com/join-the-club/]

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