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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 everything
• How books offer a powerful counterbalance to screens and constant noise
• What conservation really looks like on the ground — and why community matters
• How creativity, play, and service build connection across cultures
• Finding 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

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*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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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.

In 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.

00:27 – 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

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

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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.

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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.

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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 Podcast
• Episode 11: Classroom Connections featuring Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor
• Download the Holiday Books Dr. Diane suggested
• Send your questions for Santa
• Follow the Dear Santa Podcast on Instagram and LinkedIn

Thank 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.

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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.

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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 Macquignon
• 0:04:48: Putting the whimsy in whimsical illustrations
• 0:07:29: Debts of gratitude to Tomie dePaola
• 0:11:22: No one works in a vacuum
• 0:14:31: Connecting the Creative Process to STEM Thinking and Play
• 0:19:47: A Question of Hope

Links:

• Stephen Mcquignon's Website
• Follow 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.

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In a world dominated by screens, algorithms, and the buzz of artificial intelligence, how do we reconnect with our humanity and nuture creativity, connection, critical thinking, and collaboration? This week, speaker, writer, and coach Jane Newman drops by the Adventures in Learning podcast to help us unpack the profound challenges and opportunities at the intersection of technology, AI, and humanity.

Summary

In this episode, we explore the intricate challenges posed by technology and AI in our modern world. Jane Newman shares her journey from being inspired by her innovative father in Australia to carving out a trailblazing career in technology to recognizing the need for empathy and human connection in all aspects of our lives.

Chapters:

0:01:03 - Rehumanizing Life in the Digital Age

10:50 -- Helping Kids Form Human Connections

0:12:32 - Adventures in Learning and Technology

0:22:41 - Rehumanizing Strategies

Guest Links

Jane Newman's Big Talk

Jane Newman's Oxford Talk

Jane's Website

Follow Jane on Instagram and LinkedIn

Connect with Us

Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and BlueSky for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

Call to Action

Inspired by Jane's insights? Share this episode with fellow parents, caregivers, librarians, and educators to spark meaningful conversations about reclaiming humanity in a digital world. Don't forget to leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover the show!

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.

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Just in time for Veterans Day, meet a mother-daughter writing team focused on publishing books that help children understand freedom, sacrifice, and the challenges of deployment. In the latest episode of Adventures in Learning, Dr. Diane interviews Beverly and Alyssa Samuel, a mother-daughter writing team behind the children's series Make New Friends. With an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, the books encourage children to embrace differences and form connections.

Their latest book, Make New Friends: Red, White, & Blue, is a perfect read aloud for Veteran's Day with its focus on military families and the value of teamwork. The interview delves into the authors' backgrounds and inspirations, uncovering personal stories that shaped the narrative. As they promote acceptance and empathy, the Samuels emphasize the importance of teaching young generations to appreciate varied cultures and abilities.

Chapters:

01:03:Fostering Inclusion Through Children's Books

16:56:Empowering Children and Teaching Empathy Through Inclusive Stories

18:03:Insights into the co-writing and self-publishing process

25:00:Power of Hope

Links:

Visit Beverly and Alyssa's Website for More Information

Purchase Make New Friends, Make New Friends: Red, White, & Blue

Follow @makenewfriendsbook on Instagram

Explore our previous episodes for more insights on education, empathy, diversity, and inclusivity.

Join us in celebrating the magic of children's literature and its power to create a more empathetic and inclusive world. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!

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.