Merlin Tuttle, Hidden Hero of History!

A story of empathy in action and the power of words! Emma Lazarus' life is a testament to courage and compassion—from her literary work to her tireless advocacy for Jewish immigrants coming to America for the chance of better lives. Her most iconic poem, The New Colossus, helped raise the funds to build the Statue of Liberty. The poem’s timeless message of welcoming ‘the tired, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to breathe free,’ has remained as a symbol of hope and inclusion for generations.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/emma-lazarus/

Get a free activity guide on Emma Lazarus: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep84freePDF

Download Redge’s Family Tree: https://bit.ly/RedgeFamilyTree

If you liked this story about Emma Lazarus, you might like learning about other women in history: https://jonincharacter.com/kids-podcast-playlist-for-womens-history-month/

CREDITS: Hidden Heroes of History is a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Rebecca Cunningham, edited and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
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• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Lost on the path to Legend Lake, Jonathan and Redge stumble upon Bigfoot, the introverted gentle giant who can sing like the birds. He longs to participate in the Outstanding Olympiads competition but struggles to get any attention so he can sign up. Despite his best efforts, he remains invisible, overshadowed by the other mythological competitors’ feats. With unwavering support from his new friends, he finds the courage to be heard and let his talent soar!  

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/bigfoots-legendary-birdsong/

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LISTof conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep83freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original story intertwines mythical creatures and life lessons in a heartwarming tale of acceptance, courage, and healthy competition. The narrative carries themes of self-doubt, perseverance, empathy and a celebration of diversity and hidden talents. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework.)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy, episode 55, Maple Leaf Legends, where the critters from the Folktale Forest come together to share their own unique talents in a razzle-dazzling awards show: https://jonincharacter.com/maple-leaf-legends/

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.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Redge’s first painting class with the famous artist, Honey B. Bearton, was marvelous! So why is he feeling so blue? It’s his homework assignment--picking one thing to paint that will show the world who he is. But how can he narrow it down and choose JUST ONE? He seeks guidance from friends like Big Bad and Midge the Pidge, who help him get inspired and find the perfect idea for a creative masterpiece that will showcase his true self.

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/redges-marvelous-masterpiece/

DOWNLOAD FREE COLOR PAGE:https://bit.ly/MyMarvelousMasterpiece

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep82freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original story offers insightful takeaways about creativity, friendship, and the joy of discovering one’s unique identity. Painted into the narrative are social-emotional components of self-discovery, emotional intelligence and positive social interactions. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework.)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy, episode 25, the story about Ruth Asawa, one of California’s most beloved sculptors and an influential advocate for arts education. The intro to her story includes mention of Honey B. Bearton: https://jonincharacter.com/ruth-asawa/

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.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Join Jonathan Cormur and his hedgehog buddy, Mr. Redge, in a special bonus episode of Dorktales Storytime where they answer questions from you, our dear listeners. They praise your imaginations and curious minds and share their answers about Jonathan's travels between worlds, the traditions from his own family and Redge's size-changing abilities. There are shout-outs and expressions of gratitude for all your support. But that’s not all! The episode comes with a big announcement – Season 5 is set to launch on February 8, 2024, with a new story from Dorktales’ world of Once Upon a Time.

YOUR LISTENER FEEDBACK: Grownups, help us make stories your family loves to hear by filling out this quick survey: https://forms.gle/LWq6r2v5WDpVqzBX8

WAYS TO SEND IN YOUR QUESTION:

• Record your child saying their first name, age and their awesome question. Send the recording to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• Use the contact us form on our website: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/  

IN THIS EPISODE: The Magical Doorway (episode 50) was mentioned: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway/ 

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

We’re revisiting our most popular episode of 2023! Enjoy The Golden Touch Screen, a modern and very geeky retelling of the mythological story of King Midas and the Golden Touch. 

DESCRIPTION: After missing out on the latest aPhone release, the Acorn-product-obsessed Mr. Redge makes a desperate deal with a dark magic sorcerer. Quivering over almost losing his quills, he meets Acorn founder Beeve Hogs. Beeve tells him the story of King Midas and his love of gold, and the wizard that grants Midas' greedy wish. Will the story's unintended consequences touch Redge’s heart and remind him what he should value the most?

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-golden-touch-screen/

Could you spare a moment to share your thoughts about our podcast by filling out our LISTENER FEEDBACK SURVEY? We're all ears! Here’s the link: https://forms.gle/Wp3scNn4ZMVF24po7

GRAB YOUR FREE CONVERSATION STARTERS PDF for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/EP60freePDF

Season 5 begins on February 8, 2024! Until then, visit the Dorktales Storytime Podcast website for our complete library of reimagined fairy tales, fables, hidden hero histories and lore stories: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson and edited by Molly Murphy. All characters are performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

While Jonathan and Mr. Redge take a winter break to enjoy the holidays with their friends and family, we have one of our podfriends, Noah Glenn from Like You: Mindfulness for Kids here to guide you in a special session called, “Mindfulness for Weirdos.” Be ready to make some silly sounds and funny faces!

Episode webpage: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1267991/14181224 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Jonathan and Mr. Redge will be back in 2024 with a brand new season of Dorktales Storytime. Until then, find our full library of reimagined fairy tales and fables with social emotional themes, histories of hidden heroes and anything-is-possible lore stories on our website: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: Special thanks to Like You: Mindfulness for Kids for letting us share this episode with you. Like You is a production of Perpetual Motion. The show is written and produced by Noah Glenn. The show’s artwork was illustrated by Mia Saine and the episode art was created by Lindsey Glenn. This episode also features original music by Noah Glenn. 

Ways to connect with the Like You podcast:

• Website: https://likeyoupodcast.com/
• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/likeyoupodcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/likeyoupod/

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Poor Redge! His dreams of putting on the Bards and Balladeers winter play are doomed. The Fun Funk has set in throughout the Folktale Forest and no one has signed up to audition. In dashes Albert Spice whose cookie-fueled enthusiasm is sure to lift spirits and ignite everyone’s joy of performance and camaraderie. It’s a race against time to turn around the low turnout. Can he run and run as fast as he can to save the play? Of course, he can, he’s the Gingerbread Man!

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-gingerfriend-man/       

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/EP81freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This reimagined tale about the Gingerbread Man serves up valuable lessons for kids, weaving in themes of courage, friendship, embracing one’s own imperfections, and the joy of sharing passions with others. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework for self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy, episode 24, Merry Band of Bremen, where 5 unlikely friends band together on an a cappella plan that turns the townspeople into their most devoted fans: https://jonincharacter.com/merry-band-of-bremen/ 

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.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Are you ready for some festive fun? Follow Jack Frost, your easy-freezy emcee, for your VIP entrance into the Folktale Forest’s Jolly Holly Day celebrations. Experience the treasured tinsel traditions, winterberry bush wishes, and the happy folk with their hand-decorated parasols on parade. You have an all-access pass to this year’s Grand Feast for Mr. Redge’s quill-tingling speech, stories of gratitude and the most delicious holiday snacks. Then it’s off to your beds, where the Fairy of the Evening Star will send you to the land of dreams where you’ll relive this magical day!

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/snow-time/     

DOWNLOAD YOUR JOLLY HOLLY PARASOL COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/parasol-colorpage   

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/EP80freePDF     

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original story celebrates traditions and fosters a sense of belonging and cultural appreciation. The characters’ camaraderie and inclusivity underscore the importance of empathy, cooperation and understanding. Additionally, the episode has an emphasis on gratitude, joy, a positive outlook and the sheer delight of shared celebrations.  (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework for self-awareness and relationship skills.)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy, episode 59, A Winter’s Tail, where Jack Frost makes his first appearance to show his Folktale Forest friends the many reasons for enjoying the winter season: https://jonincharacter.com/a-winters-tail/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy. Special thanks to Kyle Elliot who voiced the character Jack Frost. All other characters were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Music in Jolly Holly Parasol Parade Scene: On Bourbon Street, Royalty free music by Giorgio Di Campo for FreeSound Music

REACH OUT!

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• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Rodge takes his cousin, Redge, on a tour of Litropia, Once Upon a Time's biggest city! The hedgehog duo enjoys a day full of delights as they cruise through downtown with the help of Litropia’s finest cab driver, Sal A. Mander. They sing along to the toe-tapping musical “Squawkin’ in the Rain", have a whirling-twirling time at Litropia Lane’s skating rink and hang wishes on the famous Un-Fir-gettable Tree. But how can they put the cherry on top of a perfect day? Why a visit to Fairy Godmother’s Sweet Shop for a Glass Slipper Sundae, of course!

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/big-city-adventure/

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/EP79freePDF       

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This original story takes listeners on a journey through the imaginary city of Litropia where valuable lessons unfold, including embracing new experiences, appreciating differences, friendship enduring challenges, creativity, expressing gratitude and kindness always goes a long way. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework for self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.)

HOTLINE ALERT! After the story, listener Seraphina, age 10, host of the podcast, “Seraphina Speaks: For Children Who Think,” calls the Mr. Redge Hotline to ask, “What is the most important emotional lesson Jonathan has taught you?” Listen to Mr. Redge’s response, then send in your questions with the help of your grownup to dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy, Special Delivery, Redge’s day with the O.U.T.P.S. (Once Upon a Time Postal Service) delivering mail to the critters who dwell in Dorktales’ Land of Once Upon a Time: https://jonincharacter.com/special-delivery/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

When a sibling rivalry ignites a wild ruckus, Mr. Redge enlists Jonathan's help to end the unfriendly feud. Using his skills as a storytelling problem solver, Jonathan weaves a tale on the wisdom of unity and the strength that lies in working together. It inspires the brothers to bundle up their bickering and squelch their scuffles, proving their sibling bonds are truly unbreakable.

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/a-scuffle-of-sticks/           

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In this modern twist on Aesop’s fable, “A Bundle of Sticks” sibling rivalry takes center stage. What unfolds are lessons in the power of cooperation, problem solving, understanding others, the value of listening and the importance of family bonds. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework for self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making.)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, you may also enjoy the brother, Percy, Porky, and Peregrin’s origin story, The Three Little…Hogs?!: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-three-little-hogs/

The three hedgehog brothers also make an appearance in Little Red: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-little-red/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

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 Hamilton Studio Recordings.

REACH OUT!

• Subscribe to @dorktalesstorytime on YouTube
• Write to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Original Music Available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!