Dorktales Storytime

New! Send us voice or text Hercules and his Greek mythological heroes are getting ready to rock the house at Mythic Mania, Legend Lake’s annual battle of the bands. But Hercules keeps finding excuses to leave rehearsals so he doesn’t have to play the drums. After chasing Cerberus the three-headed dog, helping Hydras build an aquatic stage, and tracking down the elusive Golden Deer, everyone begins to wonder what’s really going on. With the clock ticking and the crowd waiting, the band rallies together to help Hercules find his inner strength to rock the beat for one of their biggest moments on stage. Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/hercules-and-the-heroes/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktales128worksheetfun GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep126freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: Hercules and his band prepare for a high-stakes mythic music festival but he becomes overwhelmed as he tries to solve every problem on his own. His struggle highlights the challenge of balancing responsibilities and the pressure of feeling like you must always be the “strong one.” Through support from his friends, Hercules learns that asking for help is not a weakness but a strength. The story reinforces that collaboration, communication, and shared problem-solving lead to better outcomes than working alone, especially when time and expectations are high. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about mythical characters, we think you’ll also enjoy episode 83, Bigfoot’s Legendary Birdsong: https://jonincharacter.com/bigfoots-legendary-birdsong/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Sign up for FREE access to our Dorktales Resource Library stocked with color pages, activity guides, conversation starter PDFs, printables and more: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/musicNow, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

New! Send us voice or text Jonathan and Redge return to the land of dinosaurs to compete in the Mini Golf Masters with their Maiasaura friend, Minh. If they can win the Quotatious Period’s biggest golf tournament, the grand prize means Minh can be the first dinosaur to go to space camp. They drive and putt through a wild prehistoric course full of giant frog obstacles, sneaky Pterosaurs, and a twisting Brontosaur’s tail. But when an erupting volcano shakes up their final shot, everything changes, and a happy surprise shows that the ending can be even better than you imagined. Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-mini-golf-masters/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktales127colorfun GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep127freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: As Minh and his friends work together during a high-stakes mini golf tournament, they learn to adapt, support one another, and stay resilient when things don’t go as planned. The story reinforces that effort, collaboration, and a positive mindset are more important than winning, while also showing that unexpected opportunities can arise even after disappointment. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about the dinosaurs in Once Upon A Time land, we think you’ll also enjoy episode 122, Maiasaura and the Moon: https://jonincharacter.com/maiasaura-and-the-moon/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written by Monique Hafen Adams, edited and produced by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Visit the official Dorktales shop, Once Upon A Merch at dorktales-shop.fourthwall.com and use the code WELCOME10 for 10%off your order for a limited time. Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/musicNow, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us Fan Mail Jonathan and Redge wake up early to get in line for Sidequest, the Folktale Forest’s very first game and hobby shop. Redge hopes to find the last, and rarest, card he needs to complete his Cards of Enchantment deck, But before the doors even open, the elusive card escapes and its magic begins causing mystical mishaps! Jonathan and Redge team up with the shop owner in a race to catch the runaway card before everything spirals out of control. Using the powers of Redge’s deck, they play their way through the chaos and restore order, turning the grand opening into an adventure worthy of legend. Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-enchanted-sidequest/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: bit.ly/dorktalesEP126colorpage GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep126freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In this story, Jonathan, Redge, and Gerard, the shop owner, face a surprising problem when an enchanted card goes missing and its magic begins causing chaos. As they work together to find the card and restore order, listeners see how teamwork, creative thinking, and perseverance can help solve unexpected challenges. The story highlights the importance of helping others, using knowledge and strategy, and staying calm when situations feel confusing or out of control. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about a runaway character, we think you’ll also enjoy episode 81, The Gingerfriend Man: https://jonincharacter.com/the-gingerfriend-man/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Visit the official Dorktales shop, Once Upon A Merch at dorktales-shop.fourthwall.com and use the code WELCOME10 for 10%off your order for a limited time. Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/musicNow, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send a text The red telephone is ringing and the Question Hat is ready for action! In this edition of Mr. Redge’s Hotline, Jonathan and Redge announce the winners of the T.A.L.E. Tour Dorktales Merch Prize Pack Giveaway, answer listener questions, reveal Redge’s least favorite snack, share Jonathan’s favorite superhero, countdown to Season 7 and end with lots of listener shoutouts. Important News Alerts: Season 7 launches March 19Once Upon A Merch is now open!https://dorktales-shop.fourthwall.com/Have a question for a future Hotline episode?Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send a text Jonathan and Redge take one last T.A.L.E. Tour rewind to Scribbleton, Once Upon a Time’s tiniest town. After nibbling a Wonderland cookie and shrinking to size, they explored colorful streets made of leaves and mushrooms and met some very small (and very friendly) locals. When it was time to get ready for the Scribbleton Scramble Parade, there was a lot to do and not much time. As they dashed from task to task, Jonathan and Redge discovered a special kind of magic in helping others, working together, and celebrating what makes a community special. Listen to the original episode 85, The Scribbleton Scramble: https://jonincharacter.com/the-scribbleton-scramble/ We’re having a special Dorktales Storytime merch giveaway! Wednesday, February 25, 2026March 5https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventure-playlist/CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. DORKTALES MERCH GIVEAWAY! Enter by February 25, 2026. More info about the giveaway here: https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventures-rewind/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Jonathan and Redge plunge back into the Fantasea, when the magical minivan transformed into a submarine and carried them to the vibrant underwater village of Red Herring Reef. The adventure started as a dazzling tour of colorful coral and amazing art, until an empty frame led to an unexpected mystery to solve. As clues rippled to the surface, they discovered a special kind of magic hiding beneath the waves about finding the confidence to share who you are. Listen to the original episode 113, Riddle of Red Herring Reef: https://jonincharacter.com/riddle-of-red-herring-reef/ We’re having a special Dorktales Storytime merch giveaway! Wednesday, February 25, 2026https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventure-playlist/CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. DORKTALES MERCH GIVEAWAY! Enter by February 25, 2026. More info about the giveaway here: https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventures-rewind/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Welcome to Dorktales Storytime, the award-winning kids podcast for imaginative listeners and their pop-culture-loving grownups. Join voice actor and storyteller Jonathan Cormur and his best hedgehog buddy, Reginald T. Hedgehog, as they take you on adventures through the magical land of Once Upon a Time. You’ll hear: Every episode is made for all ages, with big laughs for kids and clever nods for grownups. Start anywhere. Explore everywhere. Let our once-upon-a-time together begin! Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Welcome back to the T.A.L.E. Tour Rewind! Jonathan and Redge revisit their climb into the Cliffhanger Mountains and their unforgettable visit to the Color Pillars. What starts as a search for ancient, shimmering ruins takes a surprising turn, leaving you on a cliffhanger before revealing a special kind of magic hidden in the natural world. Find the full Color Pillars Episode: https://jonincharacter.com/the-color-pillars/ We’re having a special Dorktales Storytime merch giveaway! https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventure-playlist/CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. MERCH GIVEAWAY! Enter by February 25, 2026. Find all the details about the Dorktales Merch Giveaway here: https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventures-rewind/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Welcome to the T.A.L.E. Tour Rewind! In The Magical Minivan, Jonathan and Redge return to the extraordinary vehicle that launched their adventures. It is part home, part library, part snack station, and powered by imagination. Sometimes the magic begins before you even arrive. Find the full Magical Minivan Episode: https://jonincharacter.com/magical-minivan-tale/ We’re celebrating 2026 and the T.A.L.E. Tour Rewind with a special Dorktales Storytime merch giveaway ahead of Season 7. https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventure-playlist/CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. MERCH GIVEAWAY! Enter by February 25, 2026. Find all the details about the Dorktales Merch Giveaway here: https://jonincharacter.com/tale-tour-adventures-rewind/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Happy New Year! Today we’re sharing our participation in the Big Emotions: Kids Listen Mashups About Feelings. This episode focuses on Belonging and Independence, two emotions that may seem opposite but often work together as children explore who they are and where they fit. You’ll be guided through stories about friendship, self-discovery, and finding one’s place while finding one’s voice by Abbe Opher and Kelly MacBride from Koala Kids. You’ll also hear familiar voices from Dorktales Storytime alongside our friends from Culture Kids and Stoopkid Stories. This theme closely reflects the heart of Dorktales Storytime, which centers on helping young listeners feel valued, supported, and encouraged as they grow into their unique selves. Download a worksheet for this episode: https://dorktale.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/Ep+4+-+Belonging+and+Independence+-+Human+Bingo.pdf Big Emotions: Kids Listen Mashups About Feelings is a seven-part audio series created to help kids and grownups better understand, name, and talk about their feelings together. Each episode explores two connected emotions through imaginative stories contributed by children’s podcasters from around the world. Discover the complete series on Big Emotions: https://pod.link/1502915722 Learn more about Kids Listen: https://kidslisten.org/ What’s Coming Soon: A brand-new year brings exciting things ahead, including T.A.L.E. Tour Rewinds, a new season, and exclusive fan surprises. Grownups, sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop as details are announced: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/SignUp Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text It’s Jolly Holly season, and everyone in town is brimming with holiday cheer. The Society of Bards and Balladeers has come together to build the festive set for their annual event. There’s just one tiny problem: Redge has no idea what this year’s show should be! From classic Quilliam Shakespeare plays, to poetry readings and ballets, to comedy jests and holiday whodunnits, they've already done it all. Just when Redge thinks the show won't go on, Jonathan has a brilliant idea. So cue the lights, sparkle the snowflakes, and raise the curtain for this ode to our friends in Once Upon a Time and a heart-full tribute to our listeners (that’s YOU) who are the magic that makes our adventures so extraordinary. Jolly Holly Hedgehog Holiday, our original song is featured in this episode! The full song with lyrics is available on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/album/jolly-holly-hedgehog-holiday Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-jolly-holly-herald/ GIFT FOR OUR FANS: Redge has a special video message for all of our listeners and you can download it here: https://bit.ly/2025RedgeHolidayMessage DOWNLOAD JOLLY HOLLY WORKSHEET: https://bit.ly/dorktalesEP125worksheet IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about Jolly Holly, you may also enjoy EP102: Pinocchio’s Jolly Holly Jumble: https://jonincharacter.com/pinocchios-jolly-holly-jumble/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Four easy ways to support Dorktales to keep the mic on and the stories coming: donate, subscribe or follow, leave a review, tell a friend! All support links are here in the show notes below👇🙏 Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Jonathan and Redge come home in the middle of the day to find that the Folktale Forest folk are fast asleep and no one can wake them up! The mystery leads to Tinkerbell, who’s created a pixie dust harvesting mix-up of magical proportions. In an attempt to fix things, she borrowed a bit of stardust and accidentally sent all of Once Upon a Time into a super-deep slumber. Determined to make things right, she and her friends put their clever tinkering skills to work, turning the season’s first snowfall into an enchanted wake-up call. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/pixie-dust-fuss/ GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep124freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In Pixie Dust Fuss, Tinkerbell’s earnest intentions to fix a problem goes awry puts the entire land into a deep slumber. Through her journey to set things right kids learn about responsibility, problem-solving, and the importance of asking for help when things go wrong. The story highlights how mistakes can become meaningful learning moments when approached with openness and honesty. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about a fairy, you’ll also enjoy this story about Hesper, the Fairy of the Evening Star, in episode 75: Once Upon a Lullaby: https://jonincharacter.com/once-upon-a-lullaby/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written by Monique Hafen Adams, edited, directed and produced by Molly Murphy. Monique Hafen Adams voiced Tinkerbell and all other characters were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Four easy ways to support Dorktales to keep the mic on and the stories coming: donate, subscribe or follow, leave a review, tell a friend! All support links are here in the show notes below👇🙏 Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Redge takes Jonathan on a wild ride through the city of Litropia, heading straight through a brick wall into the hidden tunnels of a secret lair. Deep beneath the streets, they meet Rat King Cam M. Bert, a cheese-loving, pun-tastic ruler who keeps Once Upon a Time’s magical trains running on schedule. From the buzzing Bee-Train to the groovy Bandstand Train and the twinkling Jolly Holly Express, every ride is full of surprises. But when a jolly jam threatens to derail the fun, Jonathan and Redge join the Rat King to keep the tunnels full of holiday cheer. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/lair-of-the-rat-king/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktalesEP123colorpage GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep123freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: “Lair of the Rat King” celebrates curiosity, teamwork, and joyful problem-solving. When Jonathan and Redge drive into the secret tunnels of Litropia, they meet the Rat King, who proudly oversees a bustling network of magical trains. Together, they discover the importance of working cooperatively to solve problems, think creatively under pressure, and spread kindness to keep the holiday cheer on track. The story highlights how humor, gratitude, and collaboration can make tricky situations turn into times of connection and fun. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about the Rat King, you may also enjoy EP79 A Big City Adventure where Redge visits Once Upon a Time’s city of Litropia and first hears about the Rat King: https://jonincharacter.com/big-city-adventure/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Special shout out to Owen Sullivan for voicing Ronnie the Rat. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Cast off on another T.A.L.E. (Thrilling and Astounding Lore Expedition) Tour and take an unexpected turn, straight through a waterfall and into the Quotatious Period! It’s a dino-tastic world of plesiosaurs, pterosaurs, and prehistoric parties. But one young Maiasaura isn’t in the mood to celebrate. He’s being teased because no one believes his theory about the power of the moon’s pull. But when his auntie’s nest suddenly disappears, his scientific curiosity and careful lunar observations just might be the key to saving the day. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/maiasaura-and-the-moon/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktalesEP122activity GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep122freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In “Maiasaura and the Moon,” young listeners join Jonathan and Redge on a prehistoric adventure where curiosity and science key themes. Through Minh, a thoughtful young dinosaur who studies the moon and tides, kids see how observation, persistence, and self-confidence can lead to problem-solving and understanding. The story encourages scientific thinking, celebrates the value of staying true to one’s ideas, and models empathy and cooperation when helping others. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about a special place on the T.A.L.E. Tour, you may also enjoy the time when the tour took Jonathan and Redge to the Cliffhanger mountains in EP108 The Color Pillars: https://jonincharacter.com/the-color-pillars/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written by Monique Hafen Adams, edited and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Oh helloooo, boils and ghouls! It is I… Jonathan Cormur, the SCARE-rator! If you've been following our Kooky Spooky Countdown, it has all been leading up to this: Elise Parisian, the host of Unspookable, sits down with Adam Gidwitz, the creator and host of Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest and New York Times best-selling author, to talk about scary stories themselves. Why do we tell them? What purpose do they serve? And what has Adam learned in all his years of studying and retelling Grimms’ Fairy Tales? So gather close, our little creatures of the night. It's a conversation you don't want to miss! The Kooky Spooky Countdown Three award-winning, family-favorite children’s podcasts - Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest (Pinna), Unspookable (Soundsington Media), and Dorktales Storytime - have teamed up this October for the Kooky Spooky Countdown, a seasonal, screen-free listening event for families and classrooms everywhere. Participants are challenged to listen to 13 “spooky-ish” podcast episodes to earn rewards, including exclusive congratulatory videos from all three podcast hosts. The challenge celebrates October’s festivities with safe thrills, playful storytelling, and engaging experiences. It launched on October 2nd and runs until October 31, 2025. You can download the challenge materials at https://jonincharacter.com/kooky-spooky-countdown/ About the Podcasts Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest (Pinna) It's Grimm fairy tales like you've never heard before! On every episode of Pinna Original Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest, bestselling author Adam Gidwitz retells a classic fairy tale to a group of inquisitive kids, who anticipate plot twists, crack jokes, and share their own perspectives on these very Grimm stories. Unspookable (Soundsington Media) Unspookable is a family-friendly podcast that explores the history, brain science, and real-world influences behind spooky stories, myths, and urban legends. Host Elise Parisian takes the scare out of spooky stories by digging into the real history behind them, the cool facts, and why people keep telling them. Dorktales Storytime Be the hero of your own story with Dorktales Storytime, a podcast for kids and their pop culture loving grownups. Hosts Jonathan Cormur and Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog share reimagined fairytales and fables with SEL themes, stories of hidden heroes, and wildly imaginative folklore. Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text A tale of artistry, innovation, and lasting legacy! Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese American landscape architect, transformed a World’s Fair exhibit into San Francisco’s Japanese Tea Garden. It's the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States, still cherished as a place of peace and natural beauty. Makoto was also the inventive mind behind the modern fortune cookie! Despite wartime hardships and lost recognition, his creativity, friendship, and tasty experiments turned a simple crunchy cookie into a sweet symbol of good fortune enjoyed around the world. Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/makoto-hagiwara/ Get a free activity guide on Makoto Hagiwara: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep121freePDF This episode of Dorktales Storytime is presented by Red Comet Press, and their hardcover children’s book, Fortune Cookies for Everyone: The Surprising Story of the Tasty Treat We Love to Eat by Mia Wenjen with illustrations by Colleen Kong-Savage. This Smithsonian collaboration unwraps the mystery of the fortune cookie and the immigrant stories behind it: https://www.redcometpress.com/nonfiction/fortunecookie IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY, try this playlist of Asian American Hidden Heroes of History who were belonging builders and community creators like Makoto Hagiwara: https://bit.ly/belonging-and-community CREDITS: Hidden Heroes of History is 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 Pacific Grove Soundworks. Join our Kooky Spooky Countdown challenge and win fun rewards! Get more details and grab your tracker: https://jonincharacter.com/kooky-spooky-countdown/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Don your finest mythical attire and set off for a day of frolic and festivity at Mythdom’s annual Fairy Faire. Let the Fairy Godmother, Fey, be your enchanting guide on a grand tour through stalls brimming with splendid finery and magical wares crafted by the fair folk of Fairie. Meet a pint-sized blacksmith who forges armor fit for legends, wander the lanes in search of joyful jousting and jesting, and take your best shot with Rapunzel’s Accurate Archer 5000 at the archery competition. Then, cheer for the Kings and Queens at their Royal Decree before a thrilling ride on the Fairy-Go-Round, powered by pure fae magic! Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/ye-olde-fairy-faire/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktalesEP120colorpage GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep120freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In “Ye Olde Fairy Faire,” Jonathan, Redge, and their friend Fairy Godmother Fey spend a day exploring a lively renaissance style fair and each stop along the way highlights curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Children learn the value of expressing themselves, supporting their friends, and celebrating the diverse talents that make a community thrive. It’s a gentle, imaginative reminder that everyone brings their own kind of magic to the world. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY with the Fairy Godmother, Fey, you may also like her appearance in EP90 Cinderella and the Dough Ball: https://jonincharacter.com/cinderella-and-the-dough-ball/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks. Join our Kooky Spooky Countdown challenge and win fun rewards! Get more details and grab your tracker: https://jonincharacter.com/kooky-spooky-countdown/ Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text The leaves are crunching, the apples are baking, and Redge is wearing his favorite autumn sweater… He’s ready to for another round of your curious, clever, and heartwarming questions. In this autumn edition of Mr. Redge’s Hotline, Jonathan and Redge talk favorite sports, real-world friends, and the finest forest snacks. They share a collection of your brilliant ideas, heartfelt reviews, and a flurry of shoutouts. Grab your headphones, coziest blanket, a favorite snack, and get ready for a cheerful harvest of listener love. JOIN THE KOOKY SPOOKY COUNTDOWN CHALLENGE and earn rewards: https://jonincharacter.com/kooky-spooky-countdown/ FOR THE GROWNUPS: We want to hear from your kids! Email us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com with your their first name, age, and their awesome question—written or recorded! You can also reach us through our contact form at https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/, leave a comment on Spotify, or include a question in a 5-star review. We’ll do our best to feature as many as we can! MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE https://jonincharacter.com/hedgehogs-home-run/https://jonincharacter.com/zinnia-fig-and-the-droop/Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Something spooky is afoot in the Folktale Forest! This autumn, chaos is striking every seasonal celebration. Decorations are being destroyed. Party snacks keep disappearing. And terrified witnesses claim they’ve seen a howling creature on the loose. Everyone’s pointing paws at Big Bad Wolf, but he says he’s innocent. That’s when his junior detective friends, Redge, Jonathan and Wabbitson step in to crack the case. As the clues lead them toward something far scarier than they ever imagined, can these sleuths solve the mystery before the full moon rises? Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/a-howl-noir-mystery/ DOWNLOAD COLOR PAGE: https://bit.ly/dorktalesEP119colorpage GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep119freePDF PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In this nod to a film noir mystery, kids learn the value of looking past assumptions, supporting friends, and working together to solve problems. The story shows how trust and teamwork can uncover the truth and reminds kids that even scary situations can be better understood when faced with curiosity and courage. IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY you’ll find even more Halloween spooky-ish tales on our Dorktales Storytime Halloween playlist: https://jonincharacter.com/halloween-stories-for-kids-playlist-thats-more-fun-than-fright/ CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundwork We love the new book Hope in the Nick of Time by Deedee Cummings! Out September 30th and available for pre-order now! Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!

Send us a text Talk Like a Pirate Day be here, and we be settin’ sail once more on our pirate adventure for all ye story-lovin’ listener buccaneers! 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/ 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/ 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 Pacific Grove Soundworks. We love the new book Hope in the Nick of Time by Deedee Cummings! Out September 30th and available for pre-order now! Support the show REACH OUT! Send us a TEXT@dorktalesstorytimehttps://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Cardhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!