How do everyday moments shape the leaders of tomorrow? Join host Tina Shepardson on The Lil’ Leaders Podcast as she shares the heart behind creating a podcast for kids and why developing leadership skills from an early age matters. Drawing on her 33 years of teaching experience and personal stories, Tina explores how the adults in children's lives can use everyday moments to build children’s confidence, kindness, and resilience, and self-belief.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Build confidence in children by giving them opportunities to try.
• Develop problem-solving skills for children without always stepping in.
• Develop resilience in children and encourage a growth mindset.
• Instill emotional growth in kids through empathy and kindness.
• Strengthen teamwork skills for children, communication, and friendships.
• Use everyday moments to foster independence and raise confident kids.

Tina also shares how adults in children's lives can lead by example, creating opportunities for children to for practice and growth in their daily lives.

Tune in to The Lil’ Leaders Podcast for practical parenting tips and inspiration to help your child grow into a confident, capable leader!

Visit the Lil’ Leaders Club for FREE resources, picture book recommendations, fun downloadable activities, and ideas you can use at home or in the classroom.

About Tina:

Tina Shepardson is an award-winning teacher of 33 years, children’s author, and founder and host of The Lil’ Leaders Podcast, where she highlights kids’ leadership through real-life experiences and meaningful conversations. She is the author of Walkout, The Sorry Seeds—a 2025 Children’s Book Council Teacher Favorite—and Canines Unleashed: Hank’s New Pack. Tina also contributes to Inspiring Minds Magazine, sharing ideas that support children’s confidence, connection, and leadership development. Through her podcast, books, and resources, Tina is passionate about helping children build the skills they need to become confident, connected leaders.

Connect with Tina:

Have a question, want to share your child’s leadership story or be a guest, or simply stay connected?

Facebook: Tina Shepardson Instagram: @thelilleaderspodcast Website: TinaShepardson.com LinkedIn: Tina Shepardson Pinterest: Tina Shepardson

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What if the stuffed animals your child cherishes could help them build confidence, express their feelings, and discover the leader within?

Join host Tina Shepardson in this heartwarming episode of The Lil’ Leaders Podcast, as she welcomes Scott Meyer, CEO of Budsies, to explore the magical world of personalized plushies and the powerful connections children have with their favorite stuffed animals. Scott shares how Budsies brings children’s creativity and characters to life, encouraging them to believe in their imagination and the possibilities within themselves. From turning a drawing into a treasured plushie to creating stories that bring characters to life, this conversation celebrates the power of creativity, self-expression, and believing in yourself.

Tina and Scott explore how imagination can support children’s emotional intelligence, independence, and ability to navigate life’s challenges. Scott also shares insights into Budsies’ innovative storybook curriculum, which helps children articulate their thoughts and feelings while developing literacy, social skills, and meaningful friendships.

This episode offers relatable stories, practical ideas, and inspiring reminders that creativity and emotional understanding are valuable parts of growing into a leader.

In This Episode, Your Child Will Discover:

• How bringing their ideas to life helps children believe in themselves and see the possibilities within their own unique ideas.

• How the emotional connections children have with their plushies encourages self-expression, comfort, and a deeper understanding of their feelings.

• How Budsies’ storybook curriculum supports literacy, emotional intelligence, and communication.

• Practical ideas for developing independence, a growth mindset, empathy, and the courage to make thoughtful choices.

Whether you're a parent seeking ways to nurture your child’s confidence or an educator looking for creative approaches to learning, this episode is filled with ideas to inspire children to imagine, create, connect, and grow.

Visit the Lil’ Leaders Club for free resources, picture book recommendations, fun downloadable activities, and ideas you can use at home or in the classroom.

About Tina:

Tina Shepardson is an award-winning teacher of 33 years, children’s author, and founder and host of The Lil’ Leaders Podcast, where she highlights kids’ leadership through real-life experiences and meaningful conversations. She is the author of Walkout, The Sorry Seeds—a 2025 Children’s Book Council Teacher Favorite—and Canines Unleashed: Hank’s New Pack. Tina also contributes to Inspiring Minds Magazine, sharing ideas that support children’s confidence, connection, and leadership development.

Connect With Tina:

Facebook: Tina Shepardson Instagram: @thelilleaderspodcast Website: TinaShepardson.com LinkedIn: Tina Shepardson Pinterest: Tina Shepardson

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Fostering Independence: Choosing Kindness, Building Confidence, and Leading By Example

How can a simple bike jump teach invaluable lessons about perseverance, kindness, and leadership?

In this uplifting episode of The Lil’ Leaders Podcast, host Tina Shepardson talks with young leader Alex about sports, friendships, family, and the everyday experiences that help shape who we become.

Alex shares a heartwarming story about teaching her brother how to navigate a bike jump—a moment that highlights patience, kindness, and the importance of taking the time to help someone else. She also talks about her mom’s influence as a role model, encouraging her to embrace new experiences and keep trying when something feels challenging.

From building confidence and independence to staying connected with friends during school breaks, Alex shares relatable insights into being a resilient, connected, kid leader. She also talks about starting seventh grade, making new friends, and balancing school with soccer, baseball, and other activities.

Whether your child is learning to try something new, navigate friendships, or support someone else, this episode offers real stories and meaningful conversations that encourage kids to build confidence, kindness, resilience, and leadership skills.

In This Episode, Your Child Will Discover:

• How helping others can build empathy and strengthen relationships

• How role models can inspire children to embrace challenges

• Ways to build confidence, independence, and responsibility

• Simple ideas for staying connected with friends

• What it means to be a good friend and supportive sibling

• How to balance sports, school, friendships, and new experiences

Visit the Lil’ Leaders Club for free resources, picture book recommendations, fun downloadable activities, and ideas you can use at home or in the classroom.

About Tina:

Tina Shepardson is an award-winning teacher of 33 years, children’s author, and founder and host of The Lil’ Leaders Podcast, where she highlights kids’ leadership through real-life experiences and meaningful conversations. She is the author of Walkout, The Sorry Seeds—a 2025 Children’s Book Council Teacher Favorite—and Canines Unleashed: Hank’s New Pack. Tina also contributes to Inspiring Minds Magazine, sharing ideas that support children’s confidence, connection, and leadership development. Through her podcast, books, and resources, Tina is passionate about helping children build the skills they need to become confident, connected leaders.

Connect with Tina:

Have a question, want to share your child’s leadership story or be a guest, or simply stay connected?

Facebook: Tina Shepardson Instagram: @thelilleaderspodcast Website: TinaShepardson.com LinkedIn: Tina Shepardson Pinterest: Tina Shepardson

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Helping Kids Build Social Skills, Confidence & Connection with Cara Zelas

Have you ever wondered how to help your child develop the social skills they need to thrive?

In this uplifting episode of The Lil' Leaders Podcast, host Tina Shepardson talks with early childhood educator and author Cara Zelas, creator of the beloved Big World of Little Dude series. Together, they explore practical ways parents and educators can support children as they navigate friendships, emotions, communication, and everyday challenges.

Cara shares why emotional intelligence for kids is such an important part of growing up and how simple everyday conversations can help children understand their feelings, make thoughtful choices, and connect with others. She also shares strategies for teaching empathy to children, encouraging kindness, and developing communication skills with kids.

As children learn to navigate friendships and social situations, parents can play an important role in building confidence in kids. Cara explains how positive relationships and intentional conversations can help children develop positive friendships with kids, greater independence, and the resilience they need when things don't go as planned.

Cara also introduces listeners to Little Dude, her therapy dog, who helps children build confidence, connection, and emotional awareness in classroom settings.

If you're looking for practical ways to support your child's social and emotional growth, this episode is filled with ideas you can use at home, at school, and in everyday moments. You'll discover simple ways to help your child understand emotions, connect with others, and become one of those resilient kids who can face challenges with confidence and care.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why social skills for children are just as important as academic skills
• How parents can help kids understand and manage their emotions
• Simple ways to teach empathy, kindness, and communication skills
• How positive friendships can help children build confidence
• Why emotional intelligence helps children become more resilient
• How everyday conversations can become opportunities for learning
• How Little Dude, Cara's therapy dog, helps children feel connected and supported
• Ways parents and educators can encourage independence and responsible decision-making

Visit the Lil' Leaders Club for free resources, book recommendations, fun downloadable activities, and ideas you can use with your child at home or in the classroom.

Key Takeaways:

Social skills can be taught. Children need opportunities to practice communication, empathy, kindness, problem-solving, and navigating friendships.

Connection matters. When children feel understood, supported, and connected, they are better equipped to build confidence and handle challenges.

Everyday moments are learning opportunities. Conversations about feelings, friendships, and choices can help children develop emotional intelligence and a positive mindset.

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Are you ready to help your child as they embark on a new school year filled with excitement and uncertainty? Join host Tina Shepardson in this enlightening episode of The Lil' Leaders Podcast: Conversations with Confident, Connected, and Resilient Kids, where she shares invaluable insights on fostering the essential qualities of confidence, connection, and resilience in children. As families transition into this new chapter, Tina explores the emotional landscape that often accompanies it, emphasizing the importance of nurturing strong relationships through open conversations and casual check-ins that encourage communication.

Tina highlights three pivotal areas for families to focus on: connection, confidence, and consistency. By prioritizing connection, parents can create an environment where their children feel safe to express their feelings and navigate their emotions. This is crucial for developing emotional intelligence in children, which plays a significant role in their ability to form friendships and handle challenges. Through effective communication and authentic kids conversations, families can strengthen their bonds and foster a sense of belonging.

Building confidence is another key theme in this episode. Tina encourages parents to allow their kids to face new challenges independently, promoting a growth mindset that empowers them to find solutions on their own. By stepping back and providing support without solving problems for them, parents can help their children develop resilience and a sense of responsibility. This approach not only builds confidence but also teaches kids valuable strategies for making choices and overcoming obstacles.

Consistency is equally important as children navigate their school year. Establishing reliable routines can help kids feel secure and prepared, allowing them to thrive in their learning environments. Tina introduces her new resource, The Little Leaders Club, which offers practical tools and tips for families aiming to cultivate skills like empathy, kindness, and effective communication. This resource is designed to support parents in raising confident and resilient kids, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.

Throughout the episode, Tina invites listeners to remember the three C's: connection, confidence, and consistency, as they guide their children through this important transition. Whether you're seeking parenting tips for confidence, insights on encouraging independence in children, or strategies for fostering emotional intelligence, this episode is packed with relatable and actionable advice. Tune in and discover how to nurture the young leaders in your life, helping them grow into confident, connected, and resilient individuals ready to have a wonderful new school year!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Starting a new school year can bring excitement, nervousness, and plenty of change. In this episode, Tina shares three simple areas families can focus on to help kids feel more confident and connected:

• Connection: Simple ways to create meaningful conversations and let kids know you're there to listen.

• Confidence: How to support kids as they face new challenges without always solving problems for them.

• Consistency: How simple routines and clear expectations can help kids feel more comfortable and prepared.

Visit The Lil' Leaders Club for free, practical resources designed to help kids build confidence, communication, problem-solving, perseverance, empathy, and connection.

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In this special episode, 6th grade students from Pueblo Middle School share honest conversations about the real-life challenges and experiences kids face during the middle school years. From handling stress and pressure to building confidence, communication skills, community, and responsible decision-making, students explore important life skills that can help kids navigate this stage of life with growth and authenticity.

Through personal insights, thoughtful discussions, and relatable experiences, these students offer encouragement and practical ideas for other kids learning to manage friendships, expectations, emotions, and everyday challenges along the way.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

• What is one thing kids can do to help someone feel included at school or in a group?

• When you start to feel overwhelmed or stressed, what helps you calm down or reset?

• Can you share a time when you struggled with something at first but improved because you kept trying?

• Why do you think listening is just as important as speaking when talking with friends, classmates, or family?

• What is something about yourself that makes you proud to be uniquely you?

• What are some ways kids can use technology and social media in a kind, safe, and responsible way?

• What is your main takeaway from today's episode?

  What is your main takeaway from today's episode?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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Meet Laila, a 4th grader from Texas and the 2025 Junior Preteen State Title Holder with International United Miss — but her biggest title might just be "The Bright Light in the Room."

After experiencing what it feels like when kids don't accept differences, Laila made a powerful choice. Instead of shrinking back, she let that experience become her superpower. She's now on a mission to help kids recognize everyone's worth through KREW — Kids Recognizing Everyone's Worth — and by writing her very first children's book, The Buddy Bench, a story about making sure no child ever feels alone.

Laila shares how she turned hurt into purpose, why celebrating differences brings us together (not apart), and how even one child can spark change in a school community. When she's not dancing, crafting, or enjoying school, she's finding ways to spread joy wherever she goes.

This episode is a reminder that leadership doesn't depend on age — it starts with heart.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Buddy Bench

Author: Laila LaRue Lewis Illustrator: QBN Studios

What if a friendship bench at recess could change a child's day — or even their life?

The Buddy Bench is a heartwarming children's picture book that teaches young readers the importance of kindness, friendship, and inclusion. Inspired by real-life buddy benches found on school playgrounds, this story helps children understand that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported.

When a child sits on the buddy bench, it's a brave step toward connection and friendship. Through gentle storytelling and relatable moments, children learn how small acts of kindness can make a big difference--and how choosing to include others creates stronger, more compassionate communities.

b. Be Kind

Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Thérèse Plummer

When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind?

From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend.

With a gentle text from the award-winning author of Sophie's Squash, Pat Zietlow Miller, Be Kind is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

• Laila turned a hard experience into her superpower. What is something hard in your life that could become your strength?

• What does it mean to "recognize everyone's worth"? What might that look like at school?

• If your school had a Buddy Bench, how could you help make sure no one feels alone?

• How can celebrating differences actually bring people closer together?

• If you created your own version of KREW, what would your group stand for?

• What is your main takeaway from Laila's episode?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

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What happens when a teacher, a love of reading, and a rescue puppy come together?

This week on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, we're thrilled to feature a special Big Leader episode with teacher, author, and rescue advocate Elizabeth Retter, who shares how rescuing Easton as a puppy from Pennsylvania and bringing him home to Canada changed her life in the most unexpected ways.

After one unforgettable morning — when Easton confidently made his way to a local deli on his own — Liz realized their journey was about more than rescue. It was about creating meaningful stories that help kids love reading and inspire families to consider rescue.

She also shares how kids and families can make a difference through volunteering, fostering, donating, or adopting.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Dog in the Deli (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,1)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

This heartwarming story introduces us to Easton on the first of his many adventures with his owner Elizabeth Retter and her family.

One morning, Easton wakes up to some terrible news: due to the pandemic, there is a meat shortage! In a panic, Easton takes matters into his own paws and escapes across a busy city street to the neighborhood deli. Easton's family, the deli, and its customers have no idea what they are in for―then again, neither does Easton! This is the true story of a rescue dog who loves a good adventure.

b. Homeward Bound (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,2)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Easton is a rescue dog who was born in Pennsylvania and adopted by the author, Elizabeth, and her family in Toronto, Canada. Based on personal experience, this story follows Easton on a new adventure as he travels to meet his new family and settles into his new home. The book stresses the importance of adopting rescue pets, and will be a fabulous read aloud for dog lovers ― and their companion children ― to enjoy. Homeward Bound is only the beginning of Easton's adventures, with more books coming in 2025.

c. Puppy School Pandemonium (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,3)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Ready for a tail-wagging adventure? Easton, the lovable rescue pup, is about to tackle his biggest challenge yet―puppy school! From learning new tricks to meeting furry friends, Easton's excitement might just get the best of him. Cheer Easton on while he discovers the importance of patience, perseverance, and second chances. Will Easton stay on track long enough to graduate?

d. Christmas Capers (The Adventures of Easton the Rescue Pet,4)

Author: Elizabeth Retter Illustrator: Izzy Bean

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What do you think Liz learned about herself after rescuing Easton?

2. Why do you think stories can help people care more about rescue animals?

3. If you were going to help a local animal shelter, what is one small step you could take with your family?

4. What does "second chance" mean to you — for animals or for people?

5. How can loving to read help you make a difference in the world?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Liz & Easton?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina...

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