Best Teaching My Cat To Read Podcasts (2025)

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Positive Childhood Experiences Can Squash ACEs 5:57

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4h ago5:57

5:57

Send us a text How can we as educators help students not only overcome adversity but truly flourish? In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores the powerful impact of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and how shifting our focus from challenges to strengths can transform classroom culture and student development. You’ll learn the key difference be…

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Vision Series - From Cat to Catastrophe: Why Varying Orthographic Patterns Matters 3:55

5h ago3:55

3:55

Send us a text Why does a student who can read “cat” get stuck on “catastrophe”? In this lively and practical episode of "Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher," Dr. Gina Pepin breaks down why varying orthographic patterns during literacy intervention is a game-changer for young readers. Instead of getting stuck in an endless loop of CVC words, students de…

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The Truth Be Told: "You Don’t Even Have Your Own Classroom?" 4:49

5h ago4:49

4:49

Send us a text Ever had a student ask, “You don’t even have your own classroom?” For reading specialists, interventionists, and instructional coaches, that innocent question can hold more weight than you’d think. In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the joys, challenges, and unique identity of educators whose work happens everywhere—but rarely be…

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The Truth Be Told: When Your Hair Looks Like a Goat 4:59

10d ago4:59

4:59

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what your students really think when they see you walk into the classroom—especially on one of those “bad hair” days? In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares a lighthearted yet meaningful story about the day a student said her hair looked like a goat, launching a candid conversation about the powerful role perce…

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Reading in Focus: Vision Strategies - Eyes on the Prize: Fun Strategies for Visual Tracking and Convergence 5:08

11d ago5:08

5:08

Send us a text In Eyes on the Prize: Fun Strategies for Visual Tracking and Convergence, you’ll pick up easy, classroom-friendly tips to help students whose eyes have a mind of their own—pencil push-ups, line trackers, flashlight games, and more. Discover why these “eye workouts” can help unleash reading fluency (and maybe leave you with a new appr…

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The Truth Be Told: "Bilingual? Nope, Bi-Cursive!” 5:24

11d ago5:24

5:24

Send us a text Dr. Gina Pepin returns with another classroom story guaranteed to make you smile! If you think being bilingual is impressive, wait till you meet Michael—he reads and writes only in cursive, thanks to Dad’s legacy. In this episode, you’ll laugh and reflect on how our students’ experiences with literacy can be as diverse—and curly—as t…

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Imagination Walk 2:42

14d ago2:42

2:42

Send us a text Step into a world where literacy meets play and imagination leads the way. In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares a simple but powerful routine—an Imagination Walk—that builds vocabulary, sparks creative thinking, and nurtures joyful expression without ever leaving the classroom. Through guided storytelling, students learn to listen,…

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Dance A Story! 5:14

14d ago5:14

5:14

Send us a text What happens when stories step off the page and come to life—literally? In this episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin explores the powerful connection between movement, memory, and meaning through a simple but transformative idea: dancing a story. Discover how teachers can use creative movement to deepen comprehens…

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Dr. Jorge Cham PHD Comics Creator Talks About Oliver's Universe, Volcanoes, Earthquakes & Science for Kids: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series 8:16

17d ago8:16

8:16

Send us a text Ishara had an amazing time at the National Book Festival interviewing the brilliant Dr. Jorge Cham! Dr. Cham is a cartoonist, author, and the creator of the popular webcomic "PHD Comics" (Piled Higher and Deeper), which hilariously captures life in academia and graduate school. In this exciting interview, Ishara and Dr. Cham dive int…

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The Truth Be Told: The Pumpkin Promise 4:01

17d ago4:01

4:01

Send us a text When is a pumpkin more than a pumpkin? In this moving episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares an unforgettable moment when a student in a simple classroom activity reveals how pumpkins have become a symbol of hope—and reunion—for his family. What starts as a cheerful show-and-tell quickly turns profound as Malik explains that pumpkins remind …

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Flashlight Friday – A Fun, Interactive Classroom Activity 6:33

24d ago6:33

6:33

Send us a text Shine a light on learning—literally! In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the magic of Flashlight Friday, a simple but powerful way to boost student engagement and joy in the classroom. From word hunts and storytime to review games and focus activities, discover how a single flashlight can transform Fridays into an adventure studen…

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Truth Be Told: “In Order?" – When a Simple Task Isn’t So Simple 3:34

25d ago3:34

3:34

Send us a text What happens when a child pauses before writing the alphabet and asks, “In order?” In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores how a simple question reveals the hidden pressures students feel, the unspoken rules they try to follow, and the importance of creating safe spaces where mistakes are part of learning. Check out more resources a…

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Reading in Focus: A Vision Series - Sand, Songs, and Silly Puppets: Multisensory Reading for Vision Challenges 4:01

25d ago4:01

4:01

Send us a text Glitter in your hair, rice on your sweater, and a puppet demanding snacks? Welcome to the world of multisensory reading! In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares fun, practical strategies—like sand tracing, rhythm reading, and puppet storytelling—that help students with vision challenges connect to literacy through touch, sound, moveme…

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When Parents Say, "They Just Memorized the Book" 3:29

25d ago3:29

3:29

Send us a text Ever hear, “He’s not really reading—he just memorized it”? In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin reframes memorization as an essential step in early literacy. From print awareness to story structure and fluency, those “memorized” books aren’t fake reading—they’re the spark that builds confident, joyful readers. Check out more resources at …

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What Would 'The First Cat in Space' Think of Mac Barnett as National Ambassador? National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series 12:14

26d ago12:14

12:14

Send us a text Ishara is thrilled to share her latest interview with Mac Barnett, the 2025-2026 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature! As the ninth writer to receive this prestigious honor, Mac has been inspiring young readers across the country with his imaginative stories and dedication to fostering a love of reading. Mac Barnett is a…

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BEHIND THE SCENES: Ishara's National Book Festival Favorites! 5:51

1M ago5:51

5:51

Send us a text Ever wonder what it's like to experience the National Book Festival through the eyes of a 10-year-old podcaster? In this special episode, Ishara takes you behind the microphone to share her favorite moments from this year's festival! ISHARA'S TOP SESSIONS: "J vs. K" - Jerry Craft and Kwame Alexander's dynamic session that had the aud…

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Joy Harjo Interview: Full Circle Reunion with Ishara at the National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series 4:27

1M ago4:27

4:27

Send us a text Two years ago, when Ishara was just 8 years old, she had the honor of interviewing U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo on season 2 of Ishara's Reading Podcast about her book "Remember." What started as a young reader's curiosity blossomed into something truly special - a genuine connection that Joy treasured just as much as Ishara did! Now,…

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PBS’s Marissa Talks Education & History: National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series 3:21

1M ago3:21

3:21

Send us a text In this spontaneous 3-minute interview, host Ishara meets Marissa from PBS’s Social Media team right at the PBS booth during the National Book Festival! What began as a casual chat about NOVA quickly turned into an impromptu interview when they discovered their shared passion for learning and history. Marissa opens up about why she l…

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Meet Tanner – Avid Reader, Possible Chef & Book Lover: The National Book Festival 25th Anniversary Series 3:16

1M ago3:16

3:16

Send us a text Join Ishara for a delightful 3-minute interview with Tanner, a young reader and aspiring chef she met at the National Book Festival! When Ishara spotted Tanner holding a book, she just had to ask what she was reading, and that sparked a heartwarming chat about books, baking, and bold adventures! Tanner shares her favorite book, "Kids…

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Respecting Every Learner — Finding Balance with Pronouns and Policies 5:05

2M ago5:05

5:05

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores how teachers can create inclusive classrooms by using neutral, professional language and respecting students. Learn practical strategies for balancing policies, honoring identities, and building a learning community where every student feels seen, safe, and valued. Check out more at www.ginape…

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Reading in Focus: A Vision Series - Eye Spy… a Struggling Reader 5:49

2M ago5:49

5:49

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin invites teachers to become reading detectives as we explore the mysteries behind students whose eyes seem to have a mind of their own. From skipped lines to jumbled letters, these signs often point to visual processing and tracking challenges—not laziness. Learn how to observe, gather clues, and implem…

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The Sound of Story: Bringing Tempo and Dynamics to Read-Alouds 5:27

2M ago5:27

5:27

Send us a text Ever thought of your read-alouds as musical performances? In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores how tempo and dynamics—from slow and reflective Largo to fast and joyful Allegro—can transform the way children experience stories. Learn how matching your voice to the mood of a text engages students’ whole bodies, hearts, and brains, …

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Reading in Focus: A Vision Series - Not All Reading Struggles Are Dyslexia 6:09

2M ago6:09

6:09

Send us a text New Series: Reading in Focus: A Vision Series Not All Reading Struggles Are Dyslexia Description: In this kickoff episode of Reading in Focus: A Vision Series on Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin shines a light on an often-overlooked cause of reading difficulties—visual processing challenges. We tend to jump straight to p…

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Strengths Before Struggles 3:05

2M ago3:05

3:05

Send us a text In this episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin invites you to rethink how we approach data-driven intervention. Too often, data becomes a spotlight on what students can’t do—overshadowing the many things they can do. Join Dr. Gina as she explores how shifting to a strengths-first mindset can transform your intervent…

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The Truth Be Told: It's Clear as Mud! 3:55

2M ago3:55

3:55

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin takes us to the small-group reading table, where one second grader’s honest declaration—“It’s clear as mud”—becomes the heart of a bigger lesson about teaching and learning. With humor and heart, Dr. Pepin reflects on why confusion is not failure, but a powerful step toward growth. She reminds us that …

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The Truth Be Told: My 3 Dads 4:04

2M ago4:04

4:04

Send us a text In this heartwarming and humorous episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the story of a second grader who proudly announced, “I have three dads!” after seeing a picture of their speech and language pathologist’s very tall family. What started as giggles about height turned into a powerful reminder of the dive…

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Story Stones: Sparking Literacy Through Play 4:39

2M ago4:39

4:39

Send us a text In this short and inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin introduces Story Stones — a playful, hands-on tool that makes storytelling and literacy come alive. Discover what story stones are, how to make them (without fuss or expensive supplies), and creative ways to use them for building language, narrative …

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Q and A - Call and response with listener questions 56:05

2M ago56:05

56:05

We asked you to send in your burning questions - about books, cats, podcasting, and everything in between - and you delivered. From favourite reads and guilty pleasure genres to behind-the-scenes podcast stories (and a few chaotic tangents), we’re answering them all. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or you’re brand new to the show, this i…

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Carry on Jeeves - Our Favourite Married Couple 1:05:42

2M ago1:05:42

1:05:42

This week, we’re diving into Carry On, Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse, a collection of short stories that perfectly captures the hilariously lopsided dynamic between the clueless Bertie Wooster and his unflappable valet, Jeeves. If you’ve never read Wodehouse before, this is the perfect entry point-sharp, charming, and laugh-out-loud funny. In this episo…

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All systems Red - Local SecUnit Can’t Believe It Paused Its Shows For This 1:11:42

3M ago1:11:42

1:11:42

This week, we’re talking about All Systems Red by Martha Wells, the first novella in the Murderbot Diaries series-and it’s safe to say we’re officially obsessed. With a title like Murderbot, you’d expect chaos (and there’s plenty), but what really caught us is the dry humor, the unexpected heart, and one of the most relatable AI narrators we’ve eve…

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Murder at the Vicarage -No One Expects the Village Inquisition 1:04:42

3M ago1:04:42

1:04:42

This week, we’re stepping into the quiet village of St. Mary Mead—where, naturally, a murder has just taken place. We're talking about Murder at the Vicarage, Agatha Christie’s first full length novel to feature the sharp-eyed, quietly brilliant Miss Marple. In this episode, we dig into what makes this book such a good introductory read to one of C…

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Mini Ep - Death on the Nile 17:44

4M ago17:44

17:44

In this mini episode we re-cap the Agatha Christie Novel “Death on the Nile”. Note, we will spoil the plot of this book in this mini episode. The Back of the book: “The tranquility of a cruise along the Nile is shattered by the discovery that Linnet Ridgeway has been shot through the head. She was young, stylish and beautiful, a girl who had everyt…

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Harrow the Ninth - It’s A Beautiful Day On The Mithraeum And You Are A Horrible Necromancer 1:10:39

4M ago1:10:39

1:10:39

We’re back for part two of our deep dive into Harrow the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir—because let’s be honest, one episode wasn’t nearly enough. In this follow-up discussion, we’re untangling all the parts we didn't get to discuss in the first half - where things get even more mind-bending, the emotional stakes rise, and the mysteries lurking behind the Lo…

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Harrow the Ninth - Tragic Find-And-Replace Incident: Multiple Deaths 1:11:38

5M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

We’re back in the world of necromancers and space palaces with *Harrow the Ninth* by Tamsyn Muir—and things are even weirder (and more brilliant) than before. If you caught our episode on *Gideon the Ninth*, you know we’re already obsessed with this series. Now, we’re diving headfirst into Harrow’s fractured mind, impossible timelines, and a story …

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Mini Ep - Gideon the Ninth 17:53

5M ago17:53

17:53

Before we read and discuss the second book in “The Locked Tomb” series, we thought we would revisit the first book, “Gideon the Ninth”, and ask questions we hadn’t asked before. Note, this episode features spoilers for the book. The Back of the Book: “The Emperor needs necromancers. The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman. Gideon has a sword, som…

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The Truth Be Told: Calm Is Contagious: Powered by Hutch’s Paw-sitive Energy 4:28

5M ago4:28

4:28

Send us a text In this laugh-out-loud (and tear-a-little) episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the unforgettable tale of Hutch—a golden doodle turned honorary assistant principal—and the surprisingly profound lessons he teaches about emotional regulation, trauma-informed practice, and the power of a well-timed head tilt. Join Gina as she reflects on a hi…

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The Truth Be Told: Taco Bell Has 2 Ls 4:36

5M ago4:36

4:36

Send us a text Tune in as Gina reflects on the importance of honoring students’ everyday lives, celebrating unexpected “aha” moments, and letting the real world into our classrooms. It’s a funny, feel-good story with a side of educational wisdom—and maybe a craving for nacho fries. Because sometimes, the key to a student’s learning journey starts w…

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How Podfest Helps You Grow Your Podcast & Business: Joon S. Han x Ishara 7:00

5M ago7:00

7:00

Send us a text In this must-watch episode, Ishara had the amazing opportunity to sit down with the brilliant Mr. Joon S. Han, thanks to the incredible support from Ecamm’s Unstuck Studio! 😎 What you’ll learn in this episode: The behind-the-scenes of Podfest and how it’s transforming the podcasting industry Strategies to grow your podcast, brand, or…

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The Red Headed League - A Holmes, A Watson and a Redhead Walk Into A Bank Robbery 51:22

5M ago51:22

51:22

In this episode, we’re digging into *The Red-Headed League*, one of the most clever and entertaining short stories from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes collection. Join us as we follow Holmes and Watson through a bizarre case involving a mysterious job posting, a suspicious employer, and a scheme that’s far more serious than it first appea…

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The Truth Be Told: Do Birds Live In Your Hair? 5:25

6M ago5:25

5:25

Send us a text In this heartwarming episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin reflects on the unexpected, yet powerful, moments that remind us of the importance of curiosity and understanding in the classroom. Dr. Pepin shares a story from her experience with a student named Lucas, who asked, “Do birds live in your hair?” Instead of …

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The Truth Be Told: “I Thought You Were Dead” — Understanding the Impact of Our Absences on Students 6:02

6M ago6:02

6:02

Send us a text In this deeply moving episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin dives into the impact our absences and disruptions in routine can have on students—particularly those who have experienced trauma. Through a poignant story from her own classroom, Dr. Pepin reflects on a moment when a student, Tommy, expressed his fear of …

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The Truth Be Told: These Books Are Loved... And This Is What Love Does to Books. 4:15

6M ago4:15

4:15

Send us a text In today’s episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin explores the beauty in the worn and weathered books that live in our classrooms. From frayed covers to chocolate milk stains, these books tell a story of love, devotion, and connection. Celebrate the books that have been reread, retold, and reimagined by the students…

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The Truth Be Told Series: “My Bookshelf Is Full of Mail” — The Role of Books at Home 7:22

6M ago7:22

7:22

Send us a text In this touching episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin shares a real-life story from her classroom that shines a light on the literacy challenges many students face at home. When a young student casually reveals that his bookshelf holds mail instead of books, it sparks a deeper conversation about access, equity, an…

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The Truth Be Told: “Fast Isn’t Fluent: When Testing Culture Caught Our Morning Announcers” 6:41

6M ago6:41

6:41

Send us a text What happens when benchmark testing sneaks its way into morning announcements? In this heartfelt and humorous episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin shares a story of two second-grade announcers who mistook fluency for speed—and flew through the morning news like it was a ORF sprint. Join Dr. Pepin as she reflects o…

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The Truth Be Told: All Things Contagious 3:58

6M ago3:58

3:58

Send us a text From glitter coughs to giggle chains, some things just spread fast in a classroom—but not all contagions are bad. In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Dr. Gina Pepin explores what really catches on in our schools: stress, joy, kindness, curiosity—and everything in between. With real stories, gentle reminders, and a dose of emotion…

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A Kids’ Guide to Conclave - Part 2 Smoke Signals and Secret Votes 5:22

6M ago5:22

5:22

Send us a text Ready to uncover the next big mystery in how a pope is chosen? In this exciting follow-up episode of our special conclave series, Ishara and Father Ron return to reveal the secret world of papal voting inside the Sistine Chapel! Ever wondered how the cardinals actually pick a new pope? Spoiler: it’s not just raising hands—there are h…

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A Kids’ Guide to Conclave - Part 1: Locked In with a Big Decision – What Happens in a Conclave? 3:52

6M ago3:52

3:52

Send us a text Ever heard the word conclave and thought, “Wait—what’s that?” You’re not alone! In this special series, this fun, kid-friendly Catholic podcast! Discover how conclaves work, why cardinals meet in the Sistine Chapel, and what the black and white smoke really means. Perfect for grades 2–7, homeschool families, and Catholic educators. I…

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The Hunger Games - Bread and circuses and child murder 1:02:36

6M ago1:02:36

1:02:36

In this episode, we’re talking all things The Hunger Games—the book that took the world by storm and redefined YA dystopian fiction. We’ll dive into what makes this story so gripping, from the intense survival stakes to the sharp social commentary woven into Panem’s brutal world. We’ll break down Katniss Everdeen as a protagonist, the tension of th…

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Jane Eyre - Even The Weather Thinks This Is A Bad Idea 1:13:36

6M ago1:13:36

1:13:36

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we explore Charlotte Brontë’s classic, Jane Eyre. In this episode, we chat about the unforgettable journey of Jane—from her early struggles as an orphan to her quest for independence and love. We dive into the many layers of social commentary, Gothic atmosphere, and the fierce resilience that makes this novel…

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My Journey With Jesus: Saints, Prayers & Mary’s Faith – A Conversation with Father Brian! (6-2) 7:58

7M ago7:58

7:58

Send us a text Join Ishara's Reading Podcast for the My Journey With Jesus Series, where young believers like you can grow in faith and have fun learning about Jesus! Ishara explores her personal relationship with Jesus and how He shapes her life. Each episode in this series, Ishara invites a special guest, which includes local priests and deacons,…