The Reading Nest Podcast

Patrick Hawkins
  • 5.0 (5)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

he Reading Nest Podcast is a warm, welcoming space where books become tools for healing, growth, and connection. Hosted by Patrick Hawkins, each episode showcases a meaningful children’s book that can help you support someone else’s healing journey — or your own. Along the way, Patrick shares insights, personal reflections, and inspiring conversations with authors, educators, and creatives who believe in the power of storytelling. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who loves the magic of a good book, The Reading Nest will leave you feeling encouraged, inspired, and reminded th

  1. 11/08/2025

    The Reading Nest Explores Big Feelings with Dr. Deana Plaskon, Author of Bella and Bird Explore Anger

    Join Patrick Hawkins on The Reading Nest as he chats with Dr. Deana Plaskon, author of Bella and Bird Explore Anger. Through the lovable characters of Bella and Bird, Dr. Plaskon helps children (and adults!) understand what anger really feels like — and how to move through it with kindness and care. A heartfelt conversation about storytelling, emotional intelligence, and helping kids grow into more self-aware, compassionate humans.

    35 min

  2. 10/12/2025

    The Reading Nest Presents:A Families Healing through Cancer: Mandeaux's Mission by Nickeva Jones

    In this powerful episode of The Reading Nest Podcast, I sit down with author Nickeva Jones and her incredible son to talk about their new book and the journey that inspired it — his mission to beat cancer and the bravery it took as a family to face the fight together. Nickeva opens up about the challenges and victories of walking beside her son during his recovery, and we hear firsthand how courage, love, and resilience shaped their story. Together, they share lessons of hope, healing, and what it means to never give up. ✨ If you’re a parent, caregiver, or anyone in need of encouragement, this conversation will remind you that even in the hardest battles, love can light the way. Drop a comment if this story touched your heart — we’d love to hear from you. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Reading Nest for more inspiring author interviews, children’s book spotlights, and conversations that nurture hope, healing, and imagination.

    35 min

  3. 09/06/2025

    Love You Can Carry: Healing with The Kissing Hand

    Sometimes, the hardest part of growing is letting go — even just for a little while. In this episode of The Reading Nest Podcast, we explore Audrey Penn’s beloved classic, The Kissing Hand, a gentle story that reminds children (and adults) that love is something we can always carry with us. Join me as we talk about the healing power of connection, the comfort of routines, and how small gestures — like Chester’s mother’s kiss — can help us feel safe, seen, and loved. Whether you’re a parent helping your child through transitions, a teacher supporting little ones, or simply someone who needs a reminder of the strength love gives us, this episode is for you. ✨ Let’s explore the magic of love, comfort, and resilience — together.

    29 min

  4. 08/23/2025

    Reading Aloud is a Superpower

    Welcome to The Reading Nest! 📚✨ In today’s episode of Reading is a Superpower, we explore three incredible stories that remind us just how powerful books can be for healing, growth, and connection.These aren’t just children’s books—they’re life books. ❤️ They help us see ourselves, face our fears, and celebrate who we are. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just a big kid at heart, this episode will leave you with tools (and a smile) to carry into your everyday life.🌟 Books featured in this episode:Willow by Elisabeth Sophia, illustrated by Anita BagdiThe Day We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael LópezChange Sings by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loren Long💡 Along the way, I’ll share practical tips, reflection questions, and little reminders that reading is more than just words on a page—it’s a superpower that helps us fly through the hard days and celebrate the good ones.So grab a cozy seat, maybe a cup of tea, and let’s read together. 💛📧 If you’re an author and want your book featured on The Reading Nest or you’d like to be a guest, email Patrick Hawkins at ⁠hawkinslearning@gmail.com⁠ #TheReadingNest #KobiYamada #MaybeBook #ChildrensBooksForHealing #StorytimeMagic #BooksThatInspire #FamilyReading #DreamBig #SelfDiscovery #HealingThroughBooks

    22 min
  5. Maybe by Kobi Yamada

    08/16/2025

    Maybe by Kobi Yamada

    n this episode of The Reading Nest Podcast, we explore Maybe by Kobi Yamada — a beautifully uplifting story that reminds us of the endless possibilities and unique gifts each of us carries. This book isn’t just for children; it’s a gentle nudge for all of us to believe in our potential, embrace the unknown, and trust that we are capable of extraordinary things. Whether you’re a parent encouraging a child, an educator inspiring young minds, or someone on your own healing journey, Maybe offers a message of hope, self-discovery, and resilience. 📧 If you’re an author and want your book featured on The Reading Nest or you’d like to be a guest, email Patrick Hawkins at hawkinslearning@gmail.com #TheReadingNest #KobiYamada #MaybeBook #ChildrensBooksForHealing #StorytimeMagic #BooksThatInspire #FamilyReading #DreamBig #SelfDiscovery #HealingThroughBooks

    15 min

  6. 09/08/2021

    Chapter 10: Clubhouse Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery)

    In this chapter of Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery), The boys captured Mr Greene and is going to find out why he was digging near their clubhouse and also why was he trying to hurt the boys. So, is you are ready to find out what Mr. Greene is up too, then grab a snack and join me at the nest.

    6 min
  7. Chapter 9: Clubhouse Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery)

    08/14/2021

    Chapter 9: Clubhouse Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery)

    In this chapter of Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery), The boys are camping out to find out what Mr Greene is up to after they learned from Ziggy about what he saw Mr, Greene doing in his backyard.  If you are ready to find out if Mr. Greene shows up and what the boys are going to find while camping at the clubhouse, then grab a snack and join me at the nest.

    10 min
  8. Chapter 8: Clubhouse Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery)

    08/07/2021

    Chapter 8: Clubhouse Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery)

    In this chapter of Mysteries (The Buried Bones Mystery), The boys are out looking for clues and they all found clues.  If you are ready to find out what the clues are, then grab a snack and join me at the nest.

    9 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

he Reading Nest Podcast is a warm, welcoming space where books become tools for healing, growth, and connection. Hosted by Patrick Hawkins, each episode showcases a meaningful children’s book that can help you support someone else’s healing journey — or your own. Along the way, Patrick shares insights, personal reflections, and inspiring conversations with authors, educators, and creatives who believe in the power of storytelling. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone who loves the magic of a good book, The Reading Nest will leave you feeling encouraged, inspired, and reminded th

Information

  • Creator
    Patrick Hawkins
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Patrick Hawkins
  • Show Website
    The Reading Nest Podcast