Dr. Diane's Adventures in Learning

Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor

🎧 Adventures in Learning with Dr. Diane 🎧Inspire curiosity. Spark creativity. Fuel a lifelong love of learning. Are you an educator, librarian, parent, or STEM/STEAM enthusiast looking to make learning come alive for kids? Adventures in Learning with Dr. Diane is your go-to podcast for hands-on, joyful learning that connects STEM/STEAM education, multicultural children's literature, and real-world exploration. Join Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor, educator and explorer, as she travels the world (literally and virtually!) to bring you conversations with award-winning authors, illustrators, educators, scientists, and STEM leaders. Each episode delivers fresh ideas, engaging stories, and practical tips to inspire early childhood and elementary learners—in the classroom, the library, or at home. Wonder, curiosity, connection, and play -- we bring the world to you! 🌎 Featuring: Innovative STEM/STEAM experiencesDiverse children's book recommendationsStrategies for inquiry-based, joyful learning through playVoices from around the globe that inspire the WOW 🧠 Perfect for:Early childhood & elementary educators | School librarians | Homeschoolers | Caregivers | STEM/STEAM champions 🔗 Explore featured books: bookshop.org/shop/drdianeadventures📝 Read full show notes: drdianeadventures.com/blog 💌 Have an idea or guest suggestion? Email: diane@drdianeadventures.com👉 Subscribe, rate, and review to support more Adventures in Learning!

  1. Thanks to a Banned Book — Freedom to Read, Empathy, and Storytelling with Dynahlee Star Padilla-Vasquez

    12/30/2025

    Thanks to a Banned Book — Freedom to Read, Empathy, and Storytelling with Dynahlee Star Padilla-Vasquez

    Send us a text A book some adults tried to keep off shelves helped a seventh grader make sense of grief, addiction, and forgiveness and shaped the storyteller she became. This episode is a powerful reminder that books can be lifelines and freedom to read matters. In Episode 169 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes Dynahlee Star Padilla-Vasquez for a timely conversation about banned books, empathy, and the transformative power of reading. Dynahlee shares an excerpt from her essay, “Thanks to a Banned Book, I Forgave My Drug Addicted Grandpa and Escaped His Path,” and reflects on how Ellen Hopkins’ Crank, a frequently challenged book, helped her understand addiction, humanize a family story, and ultimately choose a path in journalism and storytelling. Together, Dr Diane and Dynahlee unpack why adults fear difficult topics in books, how communication (not censorship) supports kids, and how book challenges often come from organized efforts that pull lines out of context. They close with a hopeful look toward the new year, grounded in the belief that one book can change a life. ⏱️ Chapters 02:06 Reading from “Thanks to a Banned Book…” 07:41 Crank as a transformative tale 12:10 What makes a powerful story 14:10 Fear, censorship & book challenges 19:44 Research, PEN America, EveryLibrary, data, and banning trends 26:35 Books vs. the online “wild west” 28:23 What brings hope into the new year 🔗 Links  Dynahlee’s essay in Everyday AdvocacyFreedom to Read / anti-censorship resources: PEN America, EveryLibrary, Committee for the First AmendmentCheck out Dr. Diane's 2026 Daily Picture Book Read Aloud CalendarSupport the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    30 min
  2. Learning from the Wild — Writing, Conservation, and Hope with Brenda Scott Royce

    12/22/2025

    Learning from the Wild — Writing, Conservation, and Hope with Brenda Scott Royce

    Send us a text What if hope isn’t a feeling—but something you do? From caring for orphaned rhinos to writing books that spark curiosity, this episode explores how learning, conservation, and community come together in powerful ways. In Episode 167 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor is joined by Brenda Scott Royce, author, former primate caregiver, and conservation advocate, for a heartfelt conversation about learning from the natural world. Brenda shares her journey from publishing and primate care to writing books that connect children with animals and conservation. Together, Diane and Brenda reflect on their recent trip to South Africa with Children’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)—from reading aloud to preschoolers to hands-on conservation work at a rhino orphanage. This episode is a reminder that learning happens through curiosity, connection, and action—and that, as Brenda reminds us, hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up. 🕒 Episode Chapters & Timestamps 01:00 — Writing, Primates, and Purpose Following curiosity instead of a straight career path 06:30 — Writing Books That Connect Kids to Animals Stories, nonfiction, and nurturing curiosity 08:20 — Helping Children Fall in Love with Nature Access, observation, and letting kids lead 10:05 — Why CBCC and South Africa Traveling with like-minded creators for conservation 15:20 — Meeting Lazula: A Rhino Full-Circle Moment From fundraiser photo to bottle-feeding a rhino 18:40 — Conservation, Community, and Responsibility What real change looks like on the ground 24:00 — Seeing the Whole Ecosystem Why animals—and learning—aren’t isolated 33:30 — Continuing the Work: Chimps in Zambia Solo conservation work after South Africa 38:00 — Hope Is a Verb What brings hope right now 🔗 Links & Resources Children’s Book Creators for Conservation (CBCC)Wild Tomorrow and blog about the tripPublishers Weekly article about the tripBrenda Scott Royce — books & writingConnect with Brenda on LinkedIn, Instagram, and BlueskySupport the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    42 min
  3. Books, Belonging, and Conservation — Lessons from South Africa with Ann Dye

    12/17/2025

    Books, Belonging, and Conservation — Lessons from South Africa with Ann Dye

    Send us a text In Episode 167 of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes Ann Dye, Vice President of Sales Operations at HarperCollins, for a powerful conversation about books, belonging, and conservation. Ann shares her journey into publishing, how books help children (and adults) slow down in a noisy, screen-filled world, and why matching the right book to the right reader still matters. Diane and Ann also reflect on their life-changing trip to South Africa with the Children’s Book Creators for Conservation, including volunteering at a rhino orphanage, learning from local conservation leaders, and witnessing the power of community-driven change. This episode explores how reading, empathy, creativity, and service connect us—to each other, to nature, and to hope. Topics include: children’s books • literacy • publishing • conservation • empathy • community • play-based learning • hope 📚 Key Takeaways Why matching the right book to the right reader can change everythingHow books offer a powerful counterbalance to screens and constant noiseWhat conservation really looks like on the ground — and why community mattersHow creativity, play, and service build connection across culturesFinding hope through everyday acts of care, kindness, and commitment🕒 Chapter Titles & Timestamps Meet Anne Dye: A Life in Publishing 01:01 – Anne’s path into children’s publishing and sales operations Matching Books to Readers 04:04 – Helping kids (and adults) fall in love with reading Books vs. the Noise of Modern Life 06:06 – Why reading still matters in a screen-saturated world Holiday Books & Finding “Just Right” Stories 09:09 – Gift ideas, animals, and beloved children’s books South Africa: Why This Trip Mattered 12:11 – What drew Anne to conservation work abroad Volunteering at the Rhino Orphanage 18:17 – Trust, vulnerability, and unforgettable moments with rhinos Dehorning, Ethics, and Human Responsibility 22:21 – Conservation choices and protecting endangered animals The Power of Community & the Green Mambas 26:25 – Local leadership, women in conservation, and sustainable change Art, Play, and Creative Connection 31:30 – What illustrators, murals, and playfulness teach us Being Present in Extraordinary Moments 34:33 – Wildlife encounters, awe, and putting the camera down Biodiversity, Humility, and Lifelong Learning 37:36 – Rethinking what we know about the natural world What Brings Hope 40:39 – Acts of service, everyday goodness, and closing reflections Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    42 min
  4. How Illustrator Reggie Brown Brings Big Feelings to Life in The Snowman Code

    12/10/2025

    How Illustrator Reggie Brown Brings Big Feelings to Life in The Snowman Code

    Send us a text What happens when an illustrator channels courage, mental health, and a 600-year-old sarcastic snowman into a single powerful story? In this inspiring conversation, The Snowman Code illustrator Reggie Brown reveals how he transformed a charming seasonal narrative into a visually rich, emotionally resonant world—and how his own life experiences shaped every brushstroke. If you’re an educator, caregiver, librarian, picture-book lover, or emerging illustrator, this episode offers a masterclass in storytelling through art, navigating big feelings with creativity, and following unexpected paths into meaningful work. Episode SummaryIn Episode 166, Dr. Diane sits down with illustrator Reggie Brown, whose artwork elevates The Snowman Code—a winter story that tackles seasonal depression, parentification, courage, and connection. Reggie shares how he intuitively designs characters like Blessing and Albert and how he transitioned from biotech to bestselling illustrator after a life-changing moment during the pandemic. Listeners also get a sneak peek at Reggie’s upcoming 2026 projects, including Walk the Walk and Do You See Me?, plus a heartwarming story of hope, family, and the Star Wars–themed Christmas surprise that changed his life forever. Chapters00:27 – Designing a Story Beyond Snowflakes 03:41 – Illustrating Mental Health with Care 04:39 – From Biotech to Books: Reggie’s Unconventional Path 07:00 – Comics, Storytelling, and Illustration Craft 07:54 – A Lifelong Sci-Fi Fan 09:06 – Books You Should Know 11:15 – What’s Coming in 2026? 13:10 – What Makes a Manuscript Irresistible 13:47 – A New Source of Hope Links Connect with Reggie Brown on Website, Instagram and LinkedIn Check out Reggie's Books: The Snowman Code, Magnificent Makers, Santa and the City, Bros, Little Big Man, Who Are Your People?, Walk the Walk , Do You See Me? Subscribe to the Daily Picture Book Read-Aloud Calendar Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    16 min
  5. The Snowman Code: A Journey of Empathy and Imagination with Simon Stephenson

    12/08/2025

    The Snowman Code: A Journey of Empathy and Imagination with Simon Stephenson

    Send us a text Just in time for the holidays, we whisk away on a cozy, magical journey through the enchanting world of The Snowman Code with Simon Stephenson. Warm yourself with this comfortable conversation about friendship, mental health, inner strength, and the transformative power of empathy as Simon shares the creative process behind his debut middle grade novel.  Summary This week on the Adventures in Learning, Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes author Simon Stephenson, who unveils the American publication of his debut middle-grade realistic fantasy The Snowman Code. Simon shares his journey from being a children's doctor to writing for films like Luca and Paddington 2. Discover how his experiences with foster care children influenced The Snowman Code, a story about friendship, magic, empathy, resilience, depression, and finding your inner strength. We explore Simon's familial inspirations for the pompous and loving Albert the Snowman. Learn more about the artistic brilliance of illustrator Reggie Brown, whose rich multicultural illustrations add depth and unexpected surprises into this heartwarming story. Plus we envision how the book translates into a potential cinematic adaptation.  Timestamps: 01:02: The Author Behind The Snowman Code 03:26:Blessing, Foster Care, Trauma, and Resilience 07:28:Familial Origins of Albert the Snowman 12:20:Themes of Empathy, Kindness, Compassion, and Sacrifice 15:30:UK Reaction to The Snowman Code 18:21:Exploring the Insightful, Layered Illustrations of Reggie Brown 20:43:Imagining The Film Version 23:52:What Brings You Hope? Links: Purchase The Snowman Code Follow Simon Stephenson on Instagram Discover more about Illustrator Reggie Brown Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    25 min
  6. Joy To The World – A Holiday Crossover with the Hosts of the Dear Santa Podcast, Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch

    12/03/2025

    Joy To The World – A Holiday Crossover with the Hosts of the Dear Santa Podcast, Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch

    Send us a text Unwrap the joy of the holiday season with Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch as they sprinkle holiday magic in every episode of their Dear Santa Podcast! This magical podcast crossover takes us on a festive journey filled with storytelling, traditions, and a direct line to the North Pole. Whether you're curious about the enchanting travels of Christmas trees or eager to hear from Santa himself, this episode is your ticket to a merry adventure! Summary: Dive into the festive world of Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch, the creative minds behind the Dear Santa Podcast. Since its debut in July 2025, this podcast has become a cherished companion for holiday enthusiasts. This podcast takes you from timeless traditions to the latest in holiday music and films -- and even includes a Destination Christmas series that showcases the nation's most festive towns. From personalized ornaments to extravagant home decorations, Jason and Kate's seasonal adventures inspire joy and togetherness. Don't miss their special connection with Santa Claus, who answers listener questions and shares North Pole secrets! BONUS On my crossover episode with the Dear Santa Podcast, we talked about holiday books and traditions to help families and children with anticipation, waiting, empathy, and kindness during this festive season. Download the recommended books here. Chapters: 01:01: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas -- Origins of the Dear Santa Podcast 09:37 - Holiday Traditions, 12 Cookies of Christmas, and a Direct Link to the North Pole 17:32 - Reflecting on Hope in the Holiday Season Links Listen to the Dear Santa PodcastEpisode 11: Classroom Connections featuring Dr. Diane Jackson SchnoorDownload the Holiday Books Dr. Diane suggestedSend your questions for SantaFollow the Dear Santa Podcast on Instagram and LinkedInThank you for joining us on this magical journey with our friends at the Dear Santa Podcast. We wish you a joyful holiday season filled with laughter, love, and festive cheer. Ho ho ho! Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    22 min
  7. Heal Your Way Forward: Forging Paths of Empathy and Connection with Myisha T. Hill

    11/24/2025

    Heal Your Way Forward: Forging Paths of Empathy and Connection with Myisha T. Hill

    Send us a text Dive into an inspiring journey of healing, empathy, and community with Myisha T. Hill. Discover how embracing sobriety—not just from substances but from systemic oppression and self-criticism—opens new pathways to personal growth and collective liberation.  Explore the transformative insights of author, speaker, and possibilitarian Myisha T. Hill on empathy, healing, and community building. Myisha's books, "Check Your Privilege" and "Heal Your Way Forward," provide valuable frameworks for personal and communal growth and healing. In this episode, Myisha discusses her approach to "sobriety" from oppressive systems, highlighting the profound impact of African proverbs such as Umbuntu and Sankofa on her work. Through personal stories and insightful discussions, she helps us learn how to model self-compassion and empathy for our children, foster community connections, and embrace the healing journey forward.  Myisha T Hill  is a nationally recognized voice in healing justice and racial equity. As the curator of Heal Your Way Forward and Iwosan Collective, her work centers on the intersections of mental wellness, social healing, and community care. With Iwosan Collective, she expands that vision, bringing the medicine of water, compassion, and environmental connection to those who’ve historically been excluded from it. Chapters: 01:03:Healing and Moving Forward Together  11:44:Modeling Self-Compassion and Empathy for Children  20:58:A Personal Journey of Empathy, Compassion, and Transformation  33:15:Heal Your Way Forward  Links: Come to Myisha T Hill's Ted Talk Visit the Heal Your Way Forward community Explore the Check Your Privilege community Learn about the Iwosan Collective Purchase Check Your Privilege Journal and Heal Your Way Forward  Follow Myisha T Hill on Instagram, Substack, YouTube, and LinkedIn #Empathy, #Healing, #MyishaTHill, #Liberation, #Sobriety, #CommunityCare, #Podcast, #SelfCompassion, #Unschooling, #PersonalGrowth, #Ubuntu, #Sankofa, #AdventuresInLearning, #HealYourWayForward, #CheckYourPrivilege, #EmpathyInAction Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    35 min
  8. Exploring Creativity and Connection with Illustrator Stephen Macquignon

    11/19/2025

    Exploring Creativity and Connection with Illustrator Stephen Macquignon

    Send us a text Discover the enchanting world of children's book illustration with Stephen Macquignon, as we explore unexpected connections between scientific thinking, whimsy, and transitioning from comics and animation to crafting magical picture books with watercolor and pencil. Join us for a journey that blends creativity, connection, and the delightful adventures of Oliver the Octopus. Summary: In this episode, Dr. Diane invites listeners to explore the whimsical journey of Stephen Macquignon, a celebrated children's book illustrator. From his early aspirations in comic book art to illustrating over eleven captivating picture books, Stephen shares his love for traditional art tools amidst a digital world. Gain insight into his creative process and hear about his latest project featuring Oliver, an adventurous octopus with a charming tale. Together, we discuss the parallels between art and science, emphasizing the joys of experimentation and revision. We share anecdotes about the late great Tomie dePaola and explore the many ways no one works in a vacuum. This episode celebrates the power of connection, creativity, and shared joy through art. Timestamps: 0:00:03: Adventures in Learning with Stephen Macquignon0:04:48: Putting the whimsy in whimsical illustrations0:07:29: Debts of gratitude to Tomie dePaola0:11:22:   No one works in a vacuum0:14:31:  Connecting the Creative Process to STEM Thinking and Play0:19:47:  A Question of HopeLinks: Stephen Mcquignon's WebsiteFollow Stephen on Instagram and LinkedIn#ChildrensBooks #Illustration #StephenMacquignon, #OliverTheOctopus #ArtisticJourney #TraditionalArt #Podcast #Creativity #Connection #WatercolorArt #PictureBooks #ComicsToBooks #ArtAndScience #PlayfulResearch #FamilyConnections #DrDianePodcast #EmpathyInAction #LearningThroughPlay #AdventuresinLearning Support the show Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

    21 min
See All (168)

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

🎧 Adventures in Learning with Dr. Diane 🎧Inspire curiosity. Spark creativity. Fuel a lifelong love of learning. Are you an educator, librarian, parent, or STEM/STEAM enthusiast looking to make learning come alive for kids? Adventures in Learning with Dr. Diane is your go-to podcast for hands-on, joyful learning that connects STEM/STEAM education, multicultural children's literature, and real-world exploration. Join Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor, educator and explorer, as she travels the world (literally and virtually!) to bring you conversations with award-winning authors, illustrators, educators, scientists, and STEM leaders. Each episode delivers fresh ideas, engaging stories, and practical tips to inspire early childhood and elementary learners—in the classroom, the library, or at home. Wonder, curiosity, connection, and play -- we bring the world to you! 🌎 Featuring: Innovative STEM/STEAM experiencesDiverse children's book recommendationsStrategies for inquiry-based, joyful learning through playVoices from around the globe that inspire the WOW 🧠 Perfect for:Early childhood & elementary educators | School librarians | Homeschoolers | Caregivers | STEM/STEAM champions 🔗 Explore featured books: bookshop.org/shop/drdianeadventures📝 Read full show notes: drdianeadventures.com/blog 💌 Have an idea or guest suggestion? Email: diane@drdianeadventures.com👉 Subscribe, rate, and review to support more Adventures in Learning!

Information

  • Creator
    Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    168
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor LLC
  • Show Website
    Dr. Diane's Adventures in Learning