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. 6D AGO

    Building Empathy with Amanda Feldman, LCSW ~ 040

    What if empathy begins when we stop asking, “What’s wrong with this person?” and start asking, “What happened to them?” In this powerful Part 1 conversation, Jenny and Kristine sit down with licensed clinical social worker Amanda Feldman, who works inside a men’s maximum security prison counseling individuals navigating trauma, addiction, and healing. Amanda shares what drew her to this deeply challenging work, the humanity she sees behind prison walls, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior. One of the most moving moments of the episode centers around Amanda’s decision to spend an entire weekend confined to her bathroom in an effort to better understand the isolation and limitations her clients experience every day. Through this eye-opening experience, she reflects on empathy, emotional safety, resilience, and the importance of looking beneath the surface of people’s actions and choices. Together, the conversation explores how early wounds shape behavior, why curiosity creates connection, and what parents, educators, and all of us can do to build more compassion in our everyday lives. This episode is a reminder that every adult was once a child—and that empathy has the power to change the way we see one another. Poem - Cause I Ain't Got a Pencil by Joshua T. Dickerson 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.

    1h 5m

  2. MAY 11

    You’re Not Crazy with Torie Wiksell ~ 039

    What if some of the struggles we carry into adulthood began in childhood relationships that never felt emotionally safe or steady? In this deeply meaningful episode of Big Little Lessons, Jenny and Kristine sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Torie Wiksell to explore the lasting impact of emotionally immature parenting—and the hope that healing is possible. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal lived experience, Torie shares insight into toxic family dynamics, narcissistic and borderline personality patterns, parentification, boundary-setting, and why so many adult children grow up questioning their own reality. Together, the conversation gently unpacks how early childhood experiences shape our sense of self, relationships, parenting, and emotional wellbeing. This episode is honest, compassionate, and validating for anyone who has ever wondered, “Was it really that bad?” Torie reminds listeners that naming our experiences can be the first step toward healing—and that even small boundaries can create meaningful change. In this episode, we discuss: What emotional immaturity in parents can look like Why adult children often struggle with guilt and self-doubt How childhood patterns show up in adult relationships Healthy boundaries and where to begin Rewriting unhealthy cycles with hope and self-awareness Small steps toward healing and emotional freedom One of the biggest takeaways? You are not “too sensitive,” “dramatic,” or “crazy.” Your experiences matter—and healing is possible. Connect with Torie: Instagram: @cyclebreakertherapist on Instagram TikTok: @cyclebreakertherapist on TikTok Podcast: You’re Not Crazy Connect with us: Instagram: @teachbiglittlelessons Email: teachbiglittlelessons@gmail.com 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.

    58 min

  3. MAY 11

    The Top 10 Questions Kindergarten Parents Ask ~ 038

    In this episode of Big Little Lessons, veteran kindergarten teachers and co-hosts Jenny and Kristine answer the top 10 questions incoming kindergarten parents ask year after year — and the deeper worries behind them. From readiness and academics to big emotions, independence, attention spans, friendships, and separation anxiety, they offer practical guidance, reassurance, and honest insight drawn from more than 50 years in the classroom. Together, they remind families that kindergarten is not about perfection — it’s about growth. Parents will walk away with concrete ways to support their children before school begins, a clearer understanding of what is developmentally appropriate, and encouragement to focus less on pressure and more on connection, routines, play, and confidence-building. Whether you’re a first-time kindergarten parent or simply need reassurance during a season of transition, this episode offers warmth, perspective, and the comforting reminder that every child develops in their own time — and that small steps often lead to big growth. Big Little Lesson: Children don’t need parents who push harder — they need parents who stay close. Resources: Kindergarten Readiness: Episode 2 Navigating Big Feelings: Episode 9 Yardsticks by Chip Wood 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.

    49 min

  4. MAY 4

    Financial Wellness with Catherine Siphron ~ 037

    In this episode of Big Little Lessons, we sit down with returning guest Catherine Siphron to explore the often-overlooked topic of financial wellness—and how small, consistent habits can shape our sense of security, confidence, and freedom over time. Catherine, a financial advisor and fiduciary, also brings her experience as a high school English teacher and mindfulness coach to this conversation. She shares her personal journey into financial literacy and her passion for helping both students and adults feel more confident and capable with money. Together, we unpack common misconceptions and reframe money—not as a source of stress—but as a skill set that can be learned and strengthened. This conversation goes beyond numbers—diving into the emotional side of money, including fear, avoidance, and confidence. Catherine offers simple, practical habits to help listeners get started, along with meaningful ways families can begin teaching children about money from a young age. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsure, or even anxious about your finances, this episode is a gentle and empowering reminder that financial wellness begins with awareness—and grows through small, intentional steps. Big Little Lesson: Small money habits, practiced consistently, can lead to lasting confidence and security—not just financially, but in how we show up in our everyday lives. Resources Mentioned Next Gen Personal Finance Free financial literacy curriculum, interactive tools, and resources for students, teachers, and families Nerd Wallet Practical guidance on budgeting, credit, investing, and everyday money decisions 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.

    59 min

  5. APR 27

    You Are Amazing Like a Rocket: How Kids Sparked a Global Movement of Encouragement ~ 036

    What if the encouragement you needed most came from a child? In this uplifting and meaningful episode, we sit down with artists and educators Asherah Weiss and Jessica Martin, the co-creators of Peptoc—a creative project that began with student-made posters and expanded into a global movement of hope, including a hotline featuring encouraging messages from children. From a simple classroom idea in March 2022 to a hotline receiving over 60,000 calls an hour, Peptoc reminds us that children’s voices carry wisdom, kindness, and truth that the world is craving. Together, we explore how small acts of encouragement can ripple outward in powerful ways—and how each of us can create spaces where those voices are heard. In This Episode, We Talk About How Asherah and Jessica found each other and why finding your person matters The origin story of Peptoc and the moment it went viral Why encouragement from children feels so genuine and impactful What kids taught them about kindness, connection, and courage The creation of their book, You Are Amazing Like a Rocket Encouragement as a daily practice, not just a one-time act The global ripple effect of Peptoc across 25 countries and five continents Simple ways families, teachers, and communities can bring encouragement into everyday life Resources and Links: You Are Amazing Like a Rocket — Available wherever books are sold Peptoc Hotline: Call 707-8PEPTOC (707-873-7862) to hear encouraging messages from children Peptoc Website: Peptoc (peptoc.org) — Learn more and explore ways to bring this movement to your community Contact: info@peptoc.org   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.

    1h 20m

  6. APR 21

    Teaching Children to Do for Themselves with Carolyn and Margaret LaGaly ~ 035

    What does it really look like to raise independent, capable children? In this episode of Big Little Lessons, we sit down with Carolyn LaGaly, an educator of over 35 years, and her daughter Margaret—who now teaches at the very same school where she once grew up as a student. Together, they offer a rare, full-circle perspective on parenting, education, and what it means to help children grow into confident, capable adults. From learning responsibility through everyday tasks to embracing boredom, delayed gratification, and the power of “no,” this conversation highlights the importance of supporting children without overstepping—and trusting them to rise to expectations. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply someone who cares about helping children grow, this episode is a meaningful reminder: Sometimes the greatest gift we can give is stepping back—so they can step forward. 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.

    1h 12m

  7. APR 14

    The Letter That Changed Everything: A Teacher, A Dog, and the Power of Advocacy ~034

    What if one simple act—like writing a letter—could change the lives of countless families? In this episode, we talk with longtime kindergarten teacher and advocate Tricia Zarro, whose curiosity and compassion helped open the door to autism service dogs for children and their families. As we recognize National Autism Acceptance Month, Tricia shares how advocacy, kindness, and a commitment to equity can truly level the playing field for children and families. We also explore the life-changing impact of autism service dogs, how BluePath provides them to families at no cost, and what it looks like when support, compassion, and access come together in powerful ways. This episode is a reminder that even the smallest actions—when rooted in love and advocacy—can create lasting change. In This Episode, We Talk About: The story behind the letter that changed everything Supporting children with autism through advocacy and understanding Why equity means access to the “good stuff” The role of kindness in both classrooms and communities How autism service dogs support safety, independence, and connection The mission and impact of BluePath Service Dogs A brief introduction to the Spellers Method and who it supports   Resources & Links BluePath Service Dogs https://bluepathservicedogs.org Learn more about their mission and how they provide autism service dogs to families at no cost. Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World (Netflix) A short documentary sharing the powerful voice and lived experience of a nonspeaking individual with autism. Spellers The Movie Documentary (YouTube) A documentary highlighting the Spellers Method and the journey of nonspeaking individuals finding their voice. 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.

    52 min

  8. APR 6

    Teaching Beyond The Classroom with Lindsey Kaufman ~ 033

    What happens when teaching becomes more than what happens inside a classroom? In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with educator Lindsey Kaufman, whose 40+ year journey in education has taken her far beyond traditional school walls—and into communities around the world, including her work in the Dominican Republic with Strength for the Journey. Lindsey shares how her early love of teaching grew into a calling rooted in connection, service, and impact. From her earliest school memories to her experiences teaching in diverse settings—including time spent in Africa—she reflects on what has remained constant throughout her career: a deep belief in the power of relationships and showing up for others. We explore the moment her path shifted beyond the classroom, the quiet nudges that led her there, and why this kind of work matters—not just for students and communities, but for teachers themselves. Lindsey also speaks honestly about the challenges, the unexpected joys, and the personal transformation that comes from stepping into something bigger than yourself. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that teaching isn’t just a profession—it’s a way of being. And sometimes, when we’re open to it, it leads us exactly where we’re meant to go. In this episode, we explore: What draws someone into a life of teaching—and what sustains it over decades How education can extend beyond classrooms into communities and across cultures The role of purpose, service, and connection in meaningful work Listening to the “nudges” that guide us toward something more The quiet, relational impact teachers make every day To contact Lindsey email her at: kaufmanlindsey@mac.com  Learn more about Strength for the Journey - https://www.sftjourney.org/     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.

    1h 1m
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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
    41
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Big Little Lessons
  • Show Website
    Big Little Lessons

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