A Conversation with David Kleeman
Today's show has a unofficial soundtrack. Be sure to listen to the full episode to fully understand the significance. "I'd rather be nine people's favorite thing than a hundred people's ninth favorite thing." - "Nine People's Favorite Thing" from the musical, Title of Show. Did you go to the Kidscreen Summit from February 12 to 15, 2023 in Miami? If so, I'm sure you heard from today's guest, David Kleeman, an individual who wears many hats. David is known as a strategist, an analyst, a speaker, a thought-leader, a forward-thinker and even a guru! He truly is all of the above, and so much more, while remaining incredibly humble. David's story in the world of children's media can, in part, be traced back to his days at the Harvard Ed School, when a lecture by Gerald S. Lesser, a Harvard psychologist who was the longtime chief adviser to Sesame Street, inspired David to pursue teaching through television. The specifics, he would learn along the way, and he continues to evolve and adapt to the moment. Our definitions of media change, and many of us, myself included, might sometimes fear that change. But if we remain true to ourselves, there really is no reason to dread the "horseless carriage" a.k.a. the metaverse. As it approaches, we have the time to get under the hood and "get it right this time." And most importantly, we can create a safe space for our kids to drive the creativity. If you are like me, you weren't in the position to attend the Kidscreen Summit. But fear not! We are represented through voices like David Kleeman's, and many others who understand that time + consistency = not only recognition, but also a lasting place in the history of serving children and families authentically through the screen. I'm truly proud of Cookies for Breakfast and the conversations we've documented with some of the pioneers of early children television like Eliot Daley of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, innovators like Howard Blumenthal of Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?, and the new generation of creators and hosts pushing against marketable trends like Lindz Amer of Queer Kids Stuff and Stan Tucker of The Very Airy Library, by simply being true to themselves and the children they serve. I hope these conversations might inspire you on the days you feel like you're just too tired to compete with, or conform to, what sells. I truly believe that children have never needed fearless authenticity through their screens more than today. If you're ready to dig deeper and offer kids what they deserve, I hope you enjoy my conversation with David Kleeman. Related links: David Kleeman is the Senior Vice President of Global Trends for Dubit, a strategy and research consultancy based in Leeds, England, that also creates digital games, apps and virtual worlds. Learn more about Danny "Danny Joe" LaBrecque and his preschool series, Danny Joe's Tree House here. Danny Joe's Tree House content has been recognized for its capacity to spark curiosity, inspire learning and build self-esteem with a SENSICALSELECT™ badge. We are deeply honored by this recognition from our colleagues at sensical.tv from Common Sense Networks, backed by Common Sense Media. Start streaming Danny Joe's Tree House today for FREE in the 2-4 year-old section.
