Dorktales Storytime | Stories for Kids Who Love Big Adventures

Latest Episodes:

Isabella Aiona Abbott | Native Hawaiian Scientist Oct 19, 2023

Show notes

A wave-splashing tale of the First Lady of Limu! Dive into the fascinating life of Isabella Aiona Abbott. From her early days in Hawaii to becoming a world-renowned expert on Pacific Ocean algae, her journey was filled with scientific curiosity and groundbreaking accomplishments. Drawing on the wisdom passed down through generations, she showed us how to connect with the natural world and use the oceans gifts for food and more. Ms. Abbott broke barriers by being the first Hawaiian woman to earn a PhD in science, discovering over 70 edible seaweeds, and leaving an enduring legacy in marine botany and Hawaiian ethnobotany.
Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/isabella-aiona-abbott/
If you liked this story about Isabella Aiona Abbott, you might like learning about other American Asian and Pacific Islanders who forged new paths in the arts and sciences: https://jonincharacter.com/kids-podcast-playlist-for-aapi-heritage-month/
CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures:

Support the show

GROWNUPS: Dorktales Storytime is more than a Kids and family stories for kids podcast. Every visit to our Once Upon a Time world invites kids to discover reimagined fairy tales, fables, Greek myths, mysteries, fantasy adventures, pirate adventures, bedtime stories, Halloween stories, dinosaur stories, spy adventures, and inspiring stories about historical figures and STEAM pioneers. We believe a well-told story brings families together, opens the door to meaningful conversations, and helps every child know they belong and their imagination can change the world.

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Goop Hog from Lumen Lagoon | Halloween Creature Stories for Kids Oct 05, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Chills, thrills and shrieks of nervous laughter fill the night air as Stephon Stork, Heron Stone and Gabby Goose, AKA the popular Stork Squad, tell the tale of their eerie encounter with the Goop Hog! It’s the slimy, ooey-gooey, algae-dripping creature who rose from the deepest depths of Lumen Lagoon and lunged at the terrified trio. But beware, brave listeners, things are never as they seem. Soon, they uncover the truth about the mysterious Goop Hog and learn a valuable lesson about giving others a chance.

WEBPAGE: https://jonincharacter.com/goop-hog-halloween-tale/
FAN PAGE FUN: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
MORE (NOT SO) SPOOKY HALLOWEEN STORIES FOR KIDS: https://jonincharacter.com/halloween-stories-for-kids-playlist-thats-more-fun-than-fright/
DOWNLOAD DORKTALES HALLOWEEN COLOR PAGES: https://bit.ly/DorktalesHalloweenColorFun

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This Halloween stories for kids episode combines the entertainment of a spooky tale with an opportunity to learn essential life lessons about kindness, understanding, and what comes from embracing others’ differences. The story is a reminder that it’s easy to jump to conclusions and misunderstandings based on someone’s looks or actions. It encourages the values of welcoming others and being open-minded.

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited and produced by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures: https://www.madebymortals.org/armchair-adventures/

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Once Upon a Lullaby | Bedtime Sleep Stories for Kids Sep 21, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Nighttime has fallen and starry skies are twinkling—that means it’s go time for Hesper, the enchanting fairy of the Evening Star, and her talking moth companion, Vesper! They’re off on their evening’s journey to bring restful sleep and wonderous dreams to all the creatures of the Folktale Forest. So, tuck your dear ones under the covers and get ready for a slumber time adventure filled with stardust magic and the sweetest bedtime traditions, all bundled up in beautiful lullaby.
Dorktales sleep story: https://jonincharacter.com/once-upon-a-lullaby/
PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In the story, listeners are introduced to a diverse cast of characters from the Folktale Forest, each with their unique bedtime rituals and cultural practices. By showcasing these different bedtime routines and traditions, the story promotes an understanding and appreciation of diversity and cultural awareness. (Aligns with Social Awareness competency within the CASEL SEL Framework.)
Looking for more recommendations for your bedtime routines? Here are some of our personal favorites:

For another great Dorktales story, try “Alice in Slumberland”
Bedtime History podcast will relax kids into sleep while they hear stories about famous people and places in history.
Dreamful is a soothing, sleep story podcast with musical accompaniment that will ease you into slumber.
The Sleepytime Club is an essential part of a parent’s tool kit for establishing intentional and memorable bedtime routines with their children.

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Molly Murphy who performed the character Hesper, the fairy of the evening star. All other characters were performed by Jonathan Cormur. The song ‘Once Upon a Lullaby’ was written, produced and performed by Molly Murphy and mastered by Jermaine Hamilton. Sound recording and production for the episode by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Big Bad Goes Back to School | Back to School Stories for Kids Sep 07, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

If your child is experiencing back to school anxiety, this story for kids will validate their feelings and build confidence before a new school year begins. We explore first day of school worries and share gentle ways to help anxious kids conquer their fear of the unknown.

Big Bad Wolf is starting a new school year and he’s having back to school jitters. He’s worried his wolf classmates will continue to make fun of him over his embarrassing incident during last year’s howl-at-the-moon final exam. Enter his Folktale Forest friends, including Serena the Capybara. They talk him through his new class nerves and guide him back to his calm, cool and collected canine self and send him off with the confidence he needs to become a Master Howler!
Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/big-bad-goes-back-to-school/
FAN PAGE FUN: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/

DOWNLOAD WORKSHEET/COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/ep74worksheet
GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep74freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:A new school year often brings back to school anxiety. In Big Bad Goes Back to School, those emotions take center stage as Big Bad works through his worries with help from friends and calming strategies. This story gently encourages emotional resilience, self-regulation, and using your support systems. It features two guided mindfulness exercises for back to school anxiety, perfect tools for easing into the new school year.

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, and edited and produced by Molly Murphy. Jonathan, Mr. Redge and Big Bad were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Serena was performed by Chanel Tsang, the host of Peace Out podcast and author of Peace Out: Calm Down Workbook for Kids. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures:

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Artemis and the Hunt for Magic | Girl Tales Aug 24, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Artemis feels like she knows all of the magic in the woods of Akva Nova. As far as she’s concerned, there’s nothing new to discover. But maybe, just maybe, there’s more magic and wonder in the woods than meets the eye?
Episode webpage: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/13354906
Girl Tales is a podcast that offers a feminist twist on classic fairytales, fables, myths and original stories like this one. Discover more: https://girltalespodcast.com/
Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
CREDITS: Special thanks to Rebecca Cunningham for letting us share “Artemis and the Hunt for Magic” with you. It’s written by Molly Murphy, performed by Rebecca Cunningham, and produced by Tessa Flannery. You’ll find Girl Tales wherever you listen to podcasts. Make sure you subscribe to both Dorktales Storytime AND Girl Tales for a playlist library overflowing with magical tales.

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Nathaniel and His Bike | Stoopkid Stories Aug 10, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Meet Nathaniel, a cool kid who loves his family, having fun and riding his bike. One day he runs into a bully from the neighborhood and must choose giving into peer pressure or standing up for himself. What’s his ultimate decision? Listen to this original story from the Stoopkid Stories podcast.

Episode webpage: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/13354874
Melissa Victor, or Melly to her friends and listeners, is part of Dorktales’ Once Upon a Time world! She’s Rapunzel, the STEM princess and you can hear her in our episode 43: Rapunzel, Rapunzel, Let Down Your Science Experiment: https://jonincharacter.com/rapunzel/
Melly is also the creator and storyteller for Stoopkid Stories, where you get to follow 7 young, Black characters who have new adventures and overcome different obstacles with their friends, family, school and community. Discover more: https://stoopkidstories.com/
Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
CREDITS: Special thanks to Melly for letting us share “Nathaniel and His Bike” with you. Stoopkids Stories is made by Melissa Victor and you’ll find it wherever you listen to podcasts! Make sure you subscribe to both Dorktales Storytime AND Stoopkid Stories for a playlist library overflowing with imaginary tales.

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Lewis Latimer | Inventor and Patent Draftsman Jul 27, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

A story of innovation and self-determination! Lewis Latimer was an American inventor, patent draftsman and artist whose work included the detailed drawings for Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone. He improved Thomas Edison’s light bulb so it could last longer and be accessible to more homeowners. He earned seven patents for his own inventions that helped people with their day-to-day lives and, in his personal life, he enjoyed painting, playing the flute and creative writing. Lewis Latimer left behind a brighter world for us all!
Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/lewis-latimer/
NOTE FOR GROWNUPS: There are so many things we can learn from today’s Hidden Hero of History, Lewis Latimer. Our episode focuses on his many achievements and contributions to the world. But there are more of his stories and family history to uncover, and important discussions to have with your families. If you’re interested in learning more, check out these resources:

Lewis Latimer House Museum: https://www.lewislatimerhouse.org/
Smithsonian Institution: https://invention.si.edu/innovative-lives-lewis-latimer-1848-1928-renaissance-man

If you liked this story about Lewis Latimer, you may also like Episode 15 on George Washington Carver, an American agricultural scientist, botanist, and inventor: https://jonincharacter.com/george-washington-carver/
CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Octavia Kane for voicing Fawna Freckles. All other characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures:

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

The Tale of Swashbuckle Joe | Pirate Ghost Stories for Kids Jul 13, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Ahoy, me hearties! Hop aboard Captain Edgarrr Matey's ship for an epic journey to Davey Jones Diner and the Plot Hook islands—where the seafaring folk sing shanties and tell tales of lost pirate booty. Armed with a secret map, our Folktale Forest friends go hunting for Swashbuckle Joe’s buried riches. When they're greeted by his gregarious ghost, he leads them to the precious treasures he values the most.

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-tale-of-swashbuckle-joe/
SUMMARY: Captain Edgarr Matey takes Jonathan and Mr. Redge are on a pirate adventure! After he tells them about the pirate, Swashbuckle Joe, they arrive at Davey Jones' Diner, a gathering place for seafaring folk, where they find the map that could lead them to Swashbuckle Joe's hidden treasure. Off they sail to the mysterious and haunted island, The Plot Hook, where they meet Barniecle, a talking barnacle, who points them to a small cave in The Plot Hook. As they venture deeper into the cave, they encounter the ghost of Swashbuckle Joe himself.
To their surprise, Swashbuckle Joe reveals that his true treasure is the time spent with his ghostly crew, singing, dancing, and enjoying each other's company. The characters join in the celebration and realize that the journey and the memories made are more valuable than any material treasure.
PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: Overall, the story encourages us to find treasure in the intangible aspects of life, such as friendships, adventures, and the appreciation of the present moment, rather than solely chasing material wealth.
If you liked this story, you may also enjoy episode 69, Eel for One and One for Eel, a daring adventure with the three Hedgeketeers: https://jonincharacter.com/eel-for-one/
Dorktales Storytime Podcast website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures:

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Zinnia Fig and The Droop | Fantasy Stories for Kids Jun 29, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

There’s a serious problem in the community garden! The beloved apple tree is in a sad state, and Redge worries there won’t be apples for snacking, pie baking and cider making in the fall. Abracadabra! Alakazam! In swoops Zinnia Fig riding on a cluster of wild onions to declare the tree is experiencing the dreaded DROOP. Can the Folktale Forest’s favorite hedge witch use her practical earthly magic to cast out its doldrums and bring on the blooms?
Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/zinnia-fig-and-the-droop/
SUMMARY: Jonathan and Redge are enjoying a beautiful day in the community garden. They notice the apple tree, which should be blooming already, doesn’t look happy so they call upon Zinnia Fig, the Folktale Forest’s hedge witch, who says the tree is experiencing a sad state known as “The Droop.”
Zinnia explains that sometimes trees need to feel their way through sadness and offers support and encouragement to the tree. They fertilize the ground and speak kind words to the tree, which starts to show signs of improvement. The flowers on the tree begin to bloom again, and Zinnia assures them that with care, the tree will fully recover. Grateful for Zinnia's help, Jonathan and Redge express their appreciation, and Zinnia performs a final incantation to bring joy to their day.
PARENTS, TEACHERS, HOMESCHOOLERS: Overall, the story promotes themes of friendship, patience, positivity, acceptance, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. It encourages kids to cultivate a sense of wonder and respect for the environment while fostering a supportive and caring community.
If you liked this story, you may also enjoy Episode 50: The Magical Doorway, where Jonathan enters the land of Once Upon a Time and meets his best hedgehog friend, Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway/
Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Go on even more adventures with our pod friends, Armchair Adventures:

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Summer Sampler | Family Podcasts Jun 22, 2023

Show notes

Send voice or text msg

Ready to find your new favorite podcasts? It’s a Summer Sampler time! Dorktales Storytime is a proud member of Kids Listen, a non-profit organization advocating for great children’s podcasts. Because summer is a great time to try out new things, we thought you might enjoy trying out a selection of different Kids Listen member podcasts. This episode features small tastes of shows to pique your curiosity, stretch your imagination, tickle your funny bone, and help you find calm.

Here is a list of featured podcasts for kids:

Girl Tales: www.girltalespodcast.com
Book Club for Kids: http://www.bookclubforkids.org
Like You: www.likeyoupodcast.com
Power Dog Adventures: https://www.powerdogadventures.com/
Unspookable: www.soundsingtonmedia.com
Stoopkid Stories: https://stoopkidstories.com/
Peace Out: www.peaceoutpodcast.com
What If World: http://www.whatifworldpodcast.com/
Dorktales Storytime Podcast: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/
Fina Mendoza Mysteries: http://finamendozamysteries.com
Newsy Pooloozi: https://www.newsypooloozi.com/

We featured our story “Alice in Slumberland” sampler in this sampler. Find the full episode here: https://jonincharacter.com/alice-in-slumberland/
CREDITS: This episode was produced by Lynn Hickernell, Kids Listen board member, creator of the Good Words Podcast, and producer for What If World podcast. Audio transitions by Dan Saks of the Noodle Loaf Show. Learn more about Kids Listen: https://www.kidslisten.org/

Support the show

REACH OUT!

Does your child have a question? Send it to us here.
We love our fans! Find free goodies: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktalesfans/
Support Our Storytime for Kids pod: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/supporters/new
Music & Lullabies: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Dorktales Storytime | Stories for Kids Who Love Big Adventures

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected