Explore every episode of the podcast Chalk and Coffee
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trauma, Neurodivergence & Care: Creating Safe Spaces - Part One | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:37:51 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I’m joined by Charlotte Sharp—a highly qualified counsellor, coach, clinical supervisor, and trainer with a wealth of experience working with adults and teens who have experienced trauma and are neurodivergent. Charlotte is passionate about supporting individuals on their healing journey and equipping caregivers with the skills they need to provide trauma-informed care. She also works closely with residential children's care homes, delivering essential training on trauma care and support. Recently, Charlotte launched a parenting group aimed at empowering parents with practical strategies and a deeper understanding of trauma and neurodiversity. In this episode, we’ll dive into her experiences, insights, and practical tips for parents, educators, and caregivers alike. If you're looking to better support neurodivergent individuals or navigate trauma with greater empathy and knowledge, this episode is a must-listen!
listen to the test of our discussion in the next episode.
Get in touch with a Charlotte
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Empowering Boys: Insights from Kathy Imabayashi | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:46:29 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Kathy Imabayashi, a retired Canadian international educator who has spent decades working as a classroom teacher and school leader in Japan, Lebanon, Thailand, Georgia, and Qatar. Kathy’s passion has always been focused on children, their parents, and educators, and she brings a wealth of experience and insight to our conversation. Now based in Japan, Kathy is the founder of Sonhood Coaching, where she guides parents raising boys to better understand their sons and the world they are growing up in. Through her work, she advocates for protecting boys’ inner emotional worlds while equipping adults with the knowledge and tools needed to help boys thrive during their earliest years. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate for children’s well-being, you won’t want to miss this thoughtful and insightful episode!
Get in touch with a Kathy
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Behind the Pages: An Interview with Author Teena Raafa-Mulligan | 22 Dec 2024 | 00:36:24 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with author Teena Raffa-Mulligan to explore her inspiring writing journey. Teena shares how her stories spark imagination, foster connection, and resonate with parents, children, and educators. Don’t miss the audiobook section of the episode that follows Teena’s interview.
You can find more information about Teena ⬇️ All listeners can use the code COFFEE to get 10% off! Head to her website to get your copy!
Book Summary It's been four years since the dark days when Chloe lost her mum to cancer. Nana’s been wonderful but it’s time their family had a mum person. When Dad brings home a special friend Chloe knows immediately that Fern is wrong for the job. She’s in a wheelchair so can’t skate to the shop, turn cartwheels on the lawn or race along the seashore. Chloe will have to be good at being bad to stop Fern joining their family. Or is she making a mistake? What if Fern is the perfect mum for the job?
A warm-hearted story about letting go of limiting expectations and opening up to 'can' rather than 'can't.'
Let’s get into it!
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok
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| Breaking Norms in Dance: Creating a Culture of Encouragement | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:35:55 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Leslie Kuny, a professional dance teacher, choreographer, adjudicator, and dance studio owner with over 20 years of experience working with and mentoring kids. Leslie shares how her love for education and dance led her to create a unique teaching approach that prioritises meaningful, lasting connections with her students.
She talks about rejecting outdated norms of shame and guilt in dance education and how she has instead built successful, competitive artists through honesty, joy, laughter, and encouragement. Leslie also opens up about her human-first teaching philosophy, which centres on trust, humour, and genuine connection to help young dancers thrive on and off the stage.
This is an inspiring conversation about how the arts can empower and transform young lives. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply passionate about creative expression, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas and inspiration for fostering connection and growth in the next generation.
Get in touch with Leslie Absolute Motion Studio Instagram
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| Empowering Parents with Strategies for Toddler Language Development | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:30:46 | |
In this episode, I am joined by Tala Hershey a speech pathologist practicing in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. She is the owner of Hershey Therapy Practice, a paediatric private practice serving New York and Connecticut as well as Hershey Speech & Language Coaching, extending its coaching services to parents worldwide. Tala specialises in toddler language development and coaching for parents to learn research-based strategies to boost their toddlers' language for toddler’s who present with expressive language difficulties. Her favourite role of all is being the mother of two wild and loveable boys, ages 3 and 1.
Let’s get into it!
Get in touch with Tala To learn more about Tala or access the free guide we discussed in today’s episode, using the links below.
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| Breaking Barriers: The Importance of Disability Representation in Kids’ Books | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:27:51 | |
In this episode, Michelle De Robillard, a published children’s book author, joins me to discuss her book Maisy and Daisy Move House. This book includes themes of inclusivity, disability and accessibility. I recommend checking it out! Don’t miss the audiobook section of the episode that follows Michelle’s interview.
You can find more information about Michelle ⬇️ Instagram @berrybeepublishing TikTok @Berry.bee.95
All listeners can use the code COFFEE to get 10% off! Head to her website to get your copy!
Book Summary Maisy and her wheelchair Daisy are moving to a new home with new access barriers to navigate. Join them as they roam their home, find their room and rush to their favourite place.
Let’s get into it!
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| Nurturing Children - An Introduction to the Roles of Educators and Parents | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:23:31 | |
In this episode, I use my experience as an educator and a parent to illuminate the crucial roles of educators and parents in nurturing and supporting children's development and growth. I also explore the power of collaboration and how these roles intersect and share strategies for establishing effective partnerships.
Let’s get into it!
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| Surviving and Thriving: Ash’s Journey in the World of Teaching | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:57:10 | |
I am thrilled that in today's episode, I am joined by Ash who shares her teaching journey and experiences working as a casual relief and contract teacher. I hope our discussion can give beginning career teachers a different perspective as they begin their career.
Be a Guest I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| A Year of Firsts: Emilie Tunstill’s New Book on Motherhood | 01 Oct 2024 | 00:29:49 | |
In this episode, I chat with Emilie Tunstill, a published children’s book author, about her book The First Year. Audiobook reading starts at 26:29.
Book Summary The First Year is a beautiful keepsake children’s book with a touching story about the adventures a mama and bub have together in the first year – the highs, lows and everything in between.Following their journey from birth to first birthday, it highlights the special bond between a mother and her new baby.Babies will enjoy listening to the heartfelt rhyming tale – feeling love and connection from their mums. At the same time, it helps new mums feel seen – normalising the challenges of that first year and celebrating the pure joy that a new baby brings.
Get in Contact with Emilie Instagram - @the_tunstill_tales TikTok - @the_tunstill_tales
When purchasing a copy of her book, all listeners can use the code COFFEE to get 10% off!
Let’s get into it!
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok | |||
| Empowering Children with Emotional Intelligence | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:17:27 | |
Hello Everyone!
It's an honour to have you here with me for the first episode of Chalk and Coffee! Eep!
In this episode, I discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in children and how it contributes to their well-being and development.
Let’s get into it!
Links Here are the links to the studies mentioned in the podcast episode about emotional intelligence and social-emotional learning for children:
Supporting Others Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok
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| Introduction Teaser | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:00:49 | |
Chalk and Coffee Podcast Teaser | |||
| Nature, Literacy, and Curiosity: An Educator's Perspective on Inquiry Learning | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:58:14 | |
This week, I’m joined by the insightful Edwina Cottino, an Early Childhood educator. Her teaching journey has taken her from Dubai to Perth, blending her background in Applied Psychology and Education with a passion for inquiry-based learning. With over a decade in the Pre-Primary classroom, Edwina has seen firsthand how kids thrive when they explore their interests. Inspired by mentors like Dr. Claire Warden and Kath Murdoch, she champions a balance between structured literacy and numeracy instruction with the magic of project-based learning.
Get in touch with Edwina
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Growing the Money Tree: A Guide to Teaching Kids About Finance | 16 Mar 2025 | 00:44:59 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I chat with Alpesh Palmar, author of Growing the Money Tree for Kids—an innovative book that introduces children to the value of money and the basics of investing. Aplesh shares his inspiration behind writing the book and how it equips young readers with essential money management skills, from saving and budgeting to simple investments. With interactive stories and fun activities, the book uses age-appropriate language to make financial literacy exciting and accessible for kids. Join us as we discuss the importance of teaching financial skills from a young age and how parents and educators can empower children to build a foundation for financial success. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious about building money smarts in kids, you’ll love this insightful episode!
Get in touch with a Alpesh
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Conversations on Books and Writing with Amy Harvey | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:55:23 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I’m joined by author Amy Harvey, who shares her journey behind the creation of her beautiful book Fishing with Grandad. Amy takes us through her writing journey, the inspiration for this touching story about the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, and how it connects with young readers.
We discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of family connections in children’s literature, and how Fishing with Grandad encourages patience, adventure, and love. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a fan of delightful children’s stories, this episode is full of valuable insights and a wonderful reading recommendation for young families.
Get in touch with Amy
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| A Conversation on Montessori and Play Spaces with Sarah Adams | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:56:00 | |
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Sarah Adams, a Montessori teacher and professional organiser, to discuss how families can create calm, functional, and child-friendly spaces using the Montessori approach. Sarah shares her expert tips on fostering independence at home, setting up organised play and learning areas, and simplifying the home environment to support a child’s natural development.
Whether new to Montessori or looking for practical ways to declutter and create a more intentional home, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in as we explore how small changes can impact your child's confidence, curiosity, and love for learning.
Get in touch with Sarah
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
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| The Story Behind the Stories: My Chat with Michelle Worthington | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:17:11 | |
In this episode, I'm thrilled to share the audio from a special interview with award-winning Australian author Michelle Worthington, who turns the spotlight on me! In our conversation, Michelle explores my creative journey as an author, educator, and parent, delving into the inspiration behind my books and how storytelling connects with my passion for supporting children and families.
The episode also includes an audiobook reading of my book, Don't Go. This heartfelt tale follows a young koala called Joey, who navigates separation anxiety, offering a relatable and comforting story for children facing similar challenges. It's the perfect resource for families and educators supporting children through moments of transition and change.
For more support, my website offers an Educator's Guide and a Parent Guide, which provide practical strategies for extending the story's impact. Explore Don't Go and additional resources on my website.
Want to hear more from Michelle? Check out her Youtube Channel, where she shares valuable insights and interviews with writers, illustrators, and professionals.
Listen to the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8R3BTYcPok
Get in touch with Michelle
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Empowering Families: Insights from Relationship Expert Reese Morala | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:51:12 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Reesa Morala, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting parents and families. Reesa's journey began by working with adolescents and their families, as well as educating school staff on how to create environments where children can thrive. Her passion lies in equipping parents with the tools they need to nurture their relationships, foster emotional well-being, and inspire positive change within their families. Together, we explore: 💡 The importance of prioritising mental wellness in parenting and family dynamics. 💡 Strategies for breaking free from power struggles and implementing mindful, supportive practices that build emotional intelligence. 💡 The beauty of embracing real-life parenting struggles and finding connection through shared experiences (no more Insta-perfect!). Reesa also gives us a sneak peek into her podcast, where parents share their raw, unfiltered stories—and their favourite recipes for busy family life! Whether you're a parent or educator, this conversation will leave you inspired to focus on what truly matters: fostering stronger, healthier connections.
All listeners can use the code CANDC15 to get 15% off! Head to her website for further information.
Get in touch with Reese
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||
| Teaser | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:00:49 | |
| Writing Through a Different Lens: Insights from Melissa Gijsbers | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:26:44 | |
In this episode, Melissa shares her journey as a writer, her love for storytelling, and the profound impact her stories have on readers of all ages. As a neurodivergent author, her stories spotlight neurodivergence, fostering understanding and connection through her unique perspective. Join us as we dive into her creative process, explore the power of storytelling, and celebrate the magic of connection through books. It's the perfect way to start a new season of thought-provoking conversations!
Get in touch with Melissa
Stay Connected Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community! Visit my website Find me on Instagram Find me on Facebook Find me on TikTok
Feature as a Guest If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care. | |||