Big Little Lessons

Kristine Annunziata and Jenny Goodenough
  • 5.0 (23)
  • Self-Improvement

Meet two passionate kindergarten teachers with over 50 years of combined experience in public and private education, spanning classrooms from New York to Los Angeles. Just as children develop in kindergarten, we all continue to experience new beginnings and changes throughout life—school, careers, relationships, hobbies, etc. The early lessons like kindness, sharing, and resilience are often the ones we return to when life gets complicated. This podcast is for individuals who like to reflect on their own educational journey and apply lessons to their own lives. People seeking to be better humans. Anyone who enjoys the process of reflecting on the important life lessons they have learned and using them to grow in their professional and personal lives.

  1. Jul 21

    What Travels Teach Us ~ 048

    Travel has a way of waking us up. It invites us to slow down, look more closely, step outside our routines, and rediscover a sense of wonder. In this episode, Jenny and Kristine reflect on the big little lessons that emerge when we leave the familiar behind and experience new places, people, cultures, and ways of living. They share stories from recent travels, the moments that surprised them, and the ways a journey can stretch our perspective—even when plans change, the weather doesn’t cooperate, or things don’t unfold exactly as expected. But wonder doesn’t have to end when the trip does. Jenny and Kristine also explore how we can bring that same curiosity, openness, and attentiveness back into our daily routines at home. By noticing what is around us, trying something new, asking better questions, and resisting the urge to move through life on autopilot, even ordinary days can become opportunities for discovery. From remaining curious and flexible to appreciating beauty, connection, and the comforts of home, this conversation is a reminder that travel is about much more than the destination. The lessons we gather along the way can help us return home more present, grateful, openhearted, and awake to the wonder already around us. Viator Trip Advisor Backroads Travel Get Your Guide   We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. Jul 14

    Staying Curious, Flexible and Open to What's Next ~047

    In this episode of Big Little Lessons, Jenny and Kristine sit down with Jan Weiss for a thoughtful conversation about staying curious, trying new things, and continuing to move forward through life’s many seasons. Jan reminds us that growth does not stop at a certain age or stage — and that being open, flexible, and willing to begin again can lead to unexpected opportunities, deeper self-understanding, and renewed purpose. Together, they explore what it means to step outside of what is familiar, listen to where life may be leading, and approach change with curiosity rather than fear. This conversation is a gentle encouragement to keep learning, keep stretching, and stay open to what’s next. Jan’s Recommendations: Skirball Cultural Center (book club option) An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. Jul 6

    Bittersweet Endings, Brave Beginnings ~ 046

    Endings are never just endings. Whether it’s the last day of school, saying goodbye to a season of life, watching children grow, or stepping into something new, transitions often hold both grief and gratitude. In this episode of Big Little Lessons, Jenny and Kristine reflect on the bittersweet nature of goodbyes and new beginnings. Drawing from years in the classroom and life beyond it, they talk about why closure matters, how rituals help children and adults process change, and how even tender endings can make room for growth, hope, and what comes next. Because sometimes the biggest lessons come when we pause long enough to honor where we’ve been before moving forward. The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  4. Jun 30

    Opening Doors Through Literacy ~ 045

    In this inspiring episode, Jenny and Kristine sit down with Lucy Martin, Director of Development for the Children's Literacy Project, to discuss the life-changing impact of literacy and why reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give a child. Lucy shares how her organization is working to address America's literacy crisis through storytelling, advocacy, volunteer engagement, and community partnerships. The conversation explores the far-reaching effects of literacy on education, opportunity, confidence, and lifelong success. Lucy also discusses the powerful documentaries Sentenced and Moonshot, which shine a light on both the challenges facing struggling readers and the communities working together to create meaningful change. Throughout the episode, listeners are reminded that improving literacy is not just the responsibility of schools—it's something all of us can support through awareness, encouragement, and action. About Lucy Martin Lucy Martin is the Director of Development for the Children's Literacy Project and a passionate advocate for improving childhood literacy. Through storytelling, community engagement, and documentary filmmaking, she helps raise awareness about the literacy crisis in America and inspires individuals and organizations to become part of the solution. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Children's Literacy Project – A nonprofit organization dedicated to improving literacy outcomes for children through advocacy, community partnerships, volunteer engagement, and storytelling. Teach a Kid to Read – A volunteer initiative that connects caring adults with children who need additional reading support and encouragement. Sentenced – A documentary executive produced and narrated by Stephen Curry that explores America's literacy crisis through the stories of children and adults affected by illiteracy. Moonshot – A documentary series highlighting communities that have dramatically improved literacy outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to helping children learn to read. Learn More Children's Literacy Project: https://www.childrensliteracyproject.org Teach a Kid to Read: https://www.teachakidtoread.org Sentenced Documentary: https://www.sentencedfilm.com Connect with Lucy Martin LinkedIn: Lucy Martin Children's Literacy Project: https://www.childrensliteracyproject.org Additional Resources: Southern Surge Article How to Build a Brain video Love to Learn by Isabelle Hau D.E. Stevenson Website We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  5. Jun 22

    Modern Mom Probs. with Tara Clark ~ 044

    In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, Jenny and Kristine sit down with author, podcaster, and creator of Modern Mom Probs, Tara Clark, to talk about the realities of modern motherhood. Through honest stories, relatable parenting moments, and plenty of laughter, Tara shares how a simple Instagram account grew into a thriving community that reminds parents they are not alone. Together, they explore the pressures facing today's moms, the impact of social media, the power of vulnerability, and why perfection is never the goal. Tara reflects on the lessons she's learned through parenting, marriage, creativity, and showing up consistently for over a decade. This conversation is a refreshing reminder that connection often grows in the very moments we wish had gone differently. Whether you're raising young children, navigating a new season of parenting, or simply trying to give yourself a little more grace, this episode offers encouragement, honesty, and the comforting reminder that the messy moments are often the most meaningful. Connect with Tara Clark Instagram: @modernmomprobs Website: modernmomprobs.com Podcast: Modern Mom Probs Book: Modern Mom Probs: A Survival Guide for 21st Century Mothers  YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@modernmomprobs?sub_confirmation=1 We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  6. May 26

    Strong from the Inside Out with Amelie Redivo ~ 043

    Amelie Redivo joins Jenny and Kristine for a heartfelt conversation about healing, identity, faith, and redefining what it truly means to be strong. As a professional dancer, fitness instructor, holistic health coach, and model, Amelie shares her deeply personal journey through an eating disorder and exercise compulsion—and the turning point that helped her move from striving and self-punishment toward compassion, balance, and self-worth. Grounded in her Christian faith and supported by her family, Amelie reflects on learning to see herself not through performance or appearance, but as “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Together, the conversation explores body image, comparison, mental wellness, healthy movement, and the powerful connection between physical and emotional health. Amelie also shares how her own healing journey now shapes the way she coaches others—with empathy, encouragement, and a focus on empowerment rather than perfection. This episode is a meaningful reminder that true strength often begins not with control… but with grace toward ourselves. We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. May 20

    Food as Fuel with Dr. Mona Misra ~ 042

    Episode Summary: What if the way children learn about food in their earliest years quietly shapes their health for a lifetime? In this thoughtful and informative conversation, Jenny and Kristine sit down with Dr. Mona Misra, a nationally recognized bariatric and metabolic surgeon, to explore how families can build healthier relationships with food, movement, and overall wellness—without shame, perfection, or obsession over appearance. Dr. Misra shares her personal journey into medicine, her passion for helping patients transform their health, and her belief that obesity should be understood as a complex chronic disease rather than a personal failure. Together, the conversation explores the powerful role early childhood habits play in lifelong health, how emotional patterns and food triggers develop, and practical ways families can create sustainable routines centered around nourishment, awareness, and balance. With compassion and clarity, Dr. Misra offers realistic strategies for parents and adults alike—reminding listeners that small, consistent changes can create lasting impact, and that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Dr. Mona Misra Website     We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  8. May 20

    Expanding Empathy with Amanda Feldman, LCSW ~ 041

    After their powerful first conversation with Amanda Feldman, Jenny and Kristine realized there was still more to unpack about empathy, accountability, and human connection. In this thoughtful bonus episode, Amanda returns to share deeper reflections from her work as a therapist inside a maximum security men’s prison—including why she describes parts of her work as “fun,” what true healing and personal responsibility look like, and how empathy requires us to lower our own defenses in order to truly connect with others. Together, the conversation explores the difference between sympathy and empathy, the balance between compassion and accountability, and how openness and curiosity can create space for growth and healing in all of our relationships. Brené Brown on Empathy vs Sympathy Netflix Documentary: Unlocked, a Jail Experiment The Redemption Project     We welcome your feedback.  Please email us at teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com Out of respect for our students, we want to note that while the stories we share are real, names have been changed for anonymity. In fact, every student we mention is named “Charlie.”  We use that name as a way to honor privacy while still sharing authentic classroom experiences.  https://www.instagram.com/teachbiglittlelessons/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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Trailer

5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Meet two passionate kindergarten teachers with over 50 years of combined experience in public and private education, spanning classrooms from New York to Los Angeles. Just as children develop in kindergarten, we all continue to experience new beginnings and changes throughout life—school, careers, relationships, hobbies, etc. The early lessons like kindness, sharing, and resilience are often the ones we return to when life gets complicated. This podcast is for individuals who like to reflect on their own educational journey and apply lessons to their own lives. People seeking to be better humans. Anyone who enjoys the process of reflecting on the important life lessons they have learned and using them to grow in their professional and personal lives.

Information

  • Creator
    Kristine Annunziata and Jenny Goodenough
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Big Little Lessons
  • Show Website
    Big Little Lessons

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