Culture Kids Podcast

Join us on a wild, wandering journey into Pokémon's Kanto region, as we step into the legendary Viridian Forest—a magical maze full of mystery, nature, and adorable creatures! Immersive Adventure: Feel the forest—sniff the pine and blossoms, hear rustling leaves and buzzing bugs, and watch Asher and Kristen transform into Pokémon-style cartoons! Nature Meets Game: Learn how Pokémon was inspired by real Japanese forests and kids catching bugs—just like Satoshi Tajiri grew up doing in Japan. **Spotlight on Bugs (and Love!)**:See a wild Caterpie and watch it evolve into Metapod, and fluttering into Butterfree—a real-life Pokémon storyline!Plus, we spot a Weedle and finally… the rare Pikachu!

✨ In This Episode Join us as we travel to meet Ms. Hana Baba to celebrate the beautiful lands of Sudan—home to deserts, jungles, pyramids, and a rich diversity of cultures. Ms Hana introduces us to her homeland with a warm greeting in Sudanese Arabic (“Zeyacomb!”), a fun language lesson, and fascinating insights into geography and traditions. Then we dive into weddings: the month‑long pampering, hand‑made perfumes with natural spices and ingredients, the festive candy‑showering wedding bus with songs, the joyful “Zagaroota”, and the sweet Jirtig ceremony where candy is exchanged seven times to symbolize a sweet week. We learn how these traditions trace back over 2,000 years to ancient Nubian kingdoms, and how even amid conflict, Sudanese communities find strength in celebration and community. This episode reminds us that sharing traditions connects us, fosters empathy, and shows that joy can endure even in hard times. As Ms Hana says, “learning about a person's culture… helps us care more about each other—and when we care more, it's a better world.”

✨ Episode Highlights Meet Mr. Wood – An inspiring K–5 art teacher in Chicago since 2007, who shares his passion for creativity and learning with students, and now with families around the globe through his podcasts! What is Art? – Mr. Wood explains how art includes everything from museum masterpieces to everyday objects like your shirt, shoes, or home...all imaginative creations!

Hola Culture Kids!

Hop on the Culture Train with Kristen and Asher as they journey to the beautiful coastal village of Jiquilillo, Nicaragua! In this heartwarming episode, we meet Alvaro and Aislyn from Tuani Tours Nicaragua and discover what it's like to live in a small fishing village where nature, community, and tradition are deeply connected.

Grab your imaginary passports—because in this egg-cellent episode of Culture Kids, Asher and his mom, Kristen, hop into the Culture Kids Time Machine to crack the case of Easter!

Hop aboard the Culture Train and join Kristen, Asher, and special guest Ms. Ghena for a magical trip to Cairo, Egypt during the holy month of Ramadan!

YOU'RE INVITED! Hurry and grab your imaginary bags because we're going to China to wrap up the Lunar New Year to watch Mr Justin perform the lion dance!!! Join us, Kristen and Asher, as we embark on a vibrant journey to China, exploring the exhilarating tradition of the Lion Dance—a cornerstone of Lunar New Year celebrations. We're joined by special guest Mr. Justin from the San Gabriel Valley Chinese Cultural Association (SGVCCA), who shares his expertise and personal experiences, bringing this dynamic art form to life. Episode Highlights:

Join us as we embark on a flavorful journey into the heart of African American culinary traditions with our guest Mr. Adrian Miller, known as the Soul Food Scholar. Mr. Adrian, an award-winning author and culinary historian, shares his knowledge on the origins, significance, and cultural impact of soul food in America.

In this episode of Culture Kids, we hop on the Culture Train to Vietnam to explore the vibrant traditions of Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, with special guest Ms. Sophie, host of the popular YouTube channel Mommy & Me Vietnamese! (Please note this episode is curated from last year's release on Tet)

Hop aboard the Culture Train as we take an exciting trip to South Korea to celebrate Seollal, Korean Lunar New Year! Get ready to travel back in time to the Three Kingdoms Period, where we uncover the early traditions that shaped this holiday. We'll also explore the fascinating connection between Seollal and Lunar New Year, tracing its origins to China. Then it's back to modern-day Seoul, where we visit a ddeokguk restaurant to experience the different ways Seollal is celebrated across South Korea. From sebhae (bowing for blessings) to playing traditional games like yutnori, you'll discover why this holiday is so special. Join the adventure!

All aboard the Culture Train! In this episode, join us as we travel to Naples, Italy—the birthplace of pizza! Discover the fascinating history of Neapolitan pizza and learn how it became one of the world's most beloved foods. Special guest and pizza chef Peter, from The True Neapolitan Pizza Association, takes us inside his kitchen to reveal the secrets behind making authentic Neapolitan pizza, from stretching the dough to baking it in a wood-fired oven. Along the way, we'll uncover fun facts about pizza's journey from Italy to America, explore the traditions passed down through generations, and even learn what makes the ovens in Naples so unique. Grab your imaginary passports and get ready for a delicious adventure filled with history, flavor, and plenty of laughs! Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana https://www.pizzanapoletana.org/en/ Culture Kids is a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping this show free and accessible for all families. If you enjoy our episodes, please consider supporting us by leaving a 5-star review or visiting culturekidsproductions.org. Birthday shoutouts and more: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Support and grants: grants@culturekidsmedia.com

Pack your bags and grab your imaginary passports—it's time to hop aboard the Culture Train! In this episode, we're back to continue our adventure in Morocco at the Sahara Desert. If you haven't tuned in to Part One yet, be sure to check it out first! We'll meet Mr. Mohammed from Positively Morocco Tours, sip bubbly mint tea by the campfire, and spend the night under a sky full of stars. Along the way, we'll learn about the Amazigh people, uncover ancient fossils hidden beneath the sand, and discover why the desert was once an ocean! From exploring Morocco's stunning landscapes to hearing stories about traditional names and desert life, this journey is packed with wonder, history, and fun. So come along—we can't wait to share the next part of this magical adventure with you!

Join us on a journey through time as we explore the vibrant story of cuetlaxochitl (poinsettias), the stunning flower that has come to symbolize the holiday season. In this episode, we travel to ancient Mexico to uncover the flower's origins in the Aztec Empire, where it was treasured for both its beauty and its uses in medicine and dyes. Learn how the Aztecs, with their deep understanding of nature, saw this plant as a symbol of life and renewal. We also share the heartwarming legend of Pepita, a young girl in a small Mexican village, whose simple yet meaningful gift of cuetlaxochitl transformed into a Christmas miracle, making the flower an enduring symbol of love, faith, and hope. From its ancient roots to its introduction to America by Joel Poinsett, discover how cuetlaxochitl became a beloved symbol of Christmas around the world, earning its place as a holiday tradition that continues to brighten homes and hearts today. Whether you call it cuetlaxochitl or poinsettias, this episode celebrates the rich cultural history and timeless beauty of this magical flower. Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: www.culturekidsproductions.org Comments, birthday shoutouts: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Support: Grants@culturekidsmedia.com

Hop aboard the Culture Train as we journey to the breathtaking Sahara Desert in Morocco! We meet Mr. Mohammed, who takes us on an unforgettable adventure across golden sand dunes, meeting camels, sipping mint tea, and learning about the rich culture of Morocco's Amazigh (Berber) people. Discover how camels are perfectly adapted to the desert, hear what it's like to grow up as a nomad, and even find out how to pour tea like a pro. Along the way, Asher tries sand boarding, learns about the importance of bubbles in Moroccan hospitality, and marvels at one of the best sunsets in the world. This magical journey is full of fascinating facts, fun, and unforgettable stories! Don't forget your imaginary passports—this is one adventure you won't want to miss! This is part 1 of a 2 part episode, so stay tuned! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: www.culturekidsproductions.org Comments, birthday shoutouts: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Support: grants@culturekidsmedia.com Positively Morocco Tours: https://positivelymoroccotours.com/ Guest name and info: Mohammed Aghdaoui Instagram @mohaaghdaoui

In this festive episode, we explore the magic of winter holidays celebrated by families across the globe. First, we meet Rabbi Selilah, who shares the beautiful traditions of Hanukkah—from lighting the menorah to enjoying delicious jelly-filled sufganiyot. Learn how the story of the Hanukkah oil teaches us that even small acts can make a big difference in the world. Then, hop aboard our magical Culture Train Time Machine as we travel back in time to uncover the origins of Christmas traditions! Discover how ancient Egyptians celebrated with greenery, how Germany's "paradise trees" became the first Christmas trees, and how these traditions spread worldwide. Plus, find out why stars and angels light up our trees today. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, or simply enjoy the winter season, this episode reminds us that this time of year is about warmth, kindness, and the joy of being together. From our Culture Kids family to yours, we wish you a wonderful holiday season. Highlights: ✨ Hanukkah traditions and the story of the miraculous oil

Aloha, Culture Kids!

All aboard the Culture Train!

Get ready to pack your virtual bags and hop on the magical Culture Train as we head to the beautiful Hawaiian island of Oahu! Today, we are excited to meet Ms. Kaila, the Education Coordinator at Waimea Valley, to explore this lush, sacred valley filled with rich Hawaiian history, vibrant plants, and breathtaking landscapes.

Join us on a frosty adventure around the world to explore the history and cultural flavors of shaved ice!

Grab your snorkels, hop on the Culture Train, and dive deep into the fascinating world of sharks with us! In this episode, we're exploring some of the world's most iconic places to meet sharks of all shapes and sizes—from the gentle giants of the Galápagos Islands to the mighty great whites of South Africa, and the vibrant reef sharks of Australia's Great Barrier Reef!

All aboard the Culture Train!

In this fun-filled episode, we take listeners on a global adventure to discover unique etiquette practices from around the world!

While we're on a brief break, we're bringing back one of our most loved episodes — Birthday Celebrations Around the World!

In this revamped episode from 2022, we are taking you on a magical journey to the beautiful city of Prague! We chat with Jan, co-founder of Taste of Prague, a tour company that shares the vibrant culinary scene, culture, and history of this enchanting city. From the iconic Charles Bridge to the grand Prague Castle, Jan introduces us to some must-see landmarks and hidden gems like the secret deer moat beneath the castle. Jan also shares his favorite childhood spots, including a mini Eiffel Tower replica and the largest stadium in the world! The episode wouldn't be complete without a deep dive into Czech cuisine—fruit dumplings, fried cheese, and hearty soups that make Prague's food scene extra special. Plus, Jan teaches us a few words in Czech, including the fun greeting "Ahoy!" (Yes, like pirates!). Grab your ticket and enjoy this family-friendly virtual tour of one of Europe's most magical cities. Taste of Prague: https://www.tasteofprague.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tasteofprague

Join us for this revamped episode of Culture Kids, where we've refreshed our journey to South Korea to explore Chuseok with even more fun facts, stories, and cultural insights to celebrate the holiday with our global community! Learn all about the traditions, delicious foods, and meaningful customs that make Chuseok a time for family, gratitude, and celebration. We'll learn about the brief history of this vibrant harvest festival, discover why it's always celebrated during a full moon, and hear about the beautiful hanboks that add a special touch to the festivities. We also share how other countries like China and Japan have similar celebrations, connecting us all through the spirit of thankfulness and family gatherings. Whether you're celebrating Chuseok, the Mid-Autumn Festival, or just curious about these joyful traditions, this episode is packed with cultural fun and heartwarming stories that celebrate togetherness, delicious foods, and the beauty of embracing our roots. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, and you might hear your name on the next show!

While we're on a short break, we're excited to bring you a revamped episode from last year, where we dive into the world of delicious Indian desserts with our special guest, Ms. Ruchi! As the host of the kid science podcast India Asks Why, Ms. Ruchi joins Asher and Kristen to share her love for traditional Indian sweets, and the stories behind them. In this episode, we explore the diverse flavors of India, from creamy milk-based treats in the North to coconut-infused delights in the South. We learn about popular desserts like the silver-topped cashew fudge, Kaju Katli, and a special rice pudding that's enjoyed across the country with unique regional twists. Asher even gets a surprise learning about edible silver—yup, that's right, shiny silver on your dessert! Join us as we also learn about cultural influences on Indian sweets, the role of nuts and spices, and how desserts can be part of celebrations, from birthdays to the birth of a calf! Plus, If you love discovering how food connects us all, you won't want to miss this episode full of sweet adventures and fascinating flavors. So, grab a snack, hit play, and let's explore the world of Indian desserts together!

Hop aboard the Culture Train as we journey to the colorful islands of Trinidad & Tobago with special guest and children's author, Farrah Chow Quan! We'll explore the sun-kissed landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant mix of cultures that define this Caribbean paradise. Learn about Trinidadian Creole, the unique language of the islands, and discover the joyful sounds of Calypso and Soca music, featuring the iconic Steelpan. Get a sneak peek into the world-famous Carnival, the most spectacular celebration of music, dance, and culture. Plus, Ms. Farrah shares fun words from her book, Anansi and Boisie ABC, and teaches us what it means to "lime." Don't miss this exciting episode packed with music, history, and plenty of island fun. Grab your passports and let's go lime! Credits: Producers/Hosts: Kristen and Asher Kim Guest: Farrah Chow Quan Audio Engineer and Post Production: Robin Lai Theme Song: Composed by Kristen Kim, arranged and recorded by Robin Lai All other music and sound FX: Envato Elements Adventures of Anansi & Boisie ABC Purchase Here: https://fchowquan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farrahwaytravels/ https://www.instagram.com/anansiandboisie/

In this episode, we welcome back Ms. Jenny Abeling to discuss the important topic of long-term care for children. We explore what long-term care looks like for kids with disabilities, whether at school, at home, or in the community. Ms. Jenny explains how assistive devices like wheelchairs, prosthetic legs, and crutches help children with different needs participate in daily activities and enjoy life just like everyone else. The episode also sheds light on unseen disabilities, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and understanding in building a supportive community. We learn that being a friend means inviting others to join in the fun, no matter their abilities. Through examples and real-life stories, we discover creative ways to make games, activities, and even classrooms more accessible for everyone. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that everyone, regardless of their needs, has something special to contribute, and together we can create a world where everyone is included and celebrated! SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! Culture Kids Productions is excited to announce that we are now a nonprofit organization! As we continue to grow and expand our mission, we are actively seeking grant opportunities and scholarships to further support our work. If you are interested in partnering with us or offering support, please reach out to us at hello@culturekidsmedia.com. Please also note that after next week's episode, we will be taking a brief hiatus to prepare for our upcoming holiday content. We look forward to returning with more enriching episodes for you and your family in the holiday season. Ms. Jenny Abeling: https://www.jennyabeling.com/ GalPal Productions: https://www.galpalproductions.com/ Comments, birthday shoutouts and more: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Consultant: Elisha Li https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisha-li-64772769 Artwork by: Mary Mathews Theme Song: Composed by Kristen Kim, Arranged and recorded by Robin Lai Sound FX: Envato Elements

In this mouthwatering episode join us as we take you on a global adventure to explore one of the world's favorite dishes: the hamburger! From the streets of Malaysia with the egg-wrapped Ramly Burger to the vibrant flavors of Korea's bulgogi Rice Burger, and the unique Kiwiburger from New Zealand, we'll discover how different cultures have put their own delicious twist on this iconic meal. Plus, find out what makes the Islak Burger from Turkey so special. Along the way, you'll learn about the rich history of the hamburger, how it got its name, and how it became a global sensation.

Join us on a thrilling adventure as we explore the wild world of cheetahs across the globe, from the vast lands of Namibia to Iran.

In this adventurous episode, join us as we hop on the Culture Train for another adventure to the lush, vibrant island of Jamaica. Once again, we meet with Dr. Horace Alexander and Ms. Dorothy McCloud from the Jamaica Cultural Alliance to dive deeper into the captivating culture of this beautiful Caribbean destination. As the journey unfolds, you will be introduced to Jamaica's national fruit, ackee. Ms. Dorothy paints a vivid picture of this unique fruit, explaining how it transforms from a closed, apple-like shape to a beautiful, flower-like structure when ripe. She also shares the crucial safety tip of waiting for ackee to naturally open before consuming it, as eating it prematurely can be dangerous. Dr. Horace then takes us on a culinary journey through the history of Jamaican jerk seasoning. He reveals the ingenious methods used by the Maroons, the brave people who escaped to the mountains for freedom, to cook meat underground without revealing their location through smoke. This fascinating technique gave birth to the rich, smoky flavor of jerk seasoning, a staple in Jamaican cuisine. You will also discover delightful Jamaican desserts, many of which are made from coconut. Ms. Dorothy describes the colorful and chewy treats, including "grater cake" and the intriguingly named "Bustamante's backbone," a tough candy that pays homage to a revered Jamaican Prime Minister. The episode further explores the symbolism of the Jamaican flag, with its unique combination of black, green, and gold, representing the island's challenges, lush landscape, and sunny optimism. Dr. Horace shares the positive outlook embodied by the Jamaican people and explains the cultural significance of the colors often associated with the Rastafarian community.

Join us with our special guest, Ms. Jenny Abeling, the author of "A Kids Book About Long-Term Care." We discuss what long-term care is, why it's important, and how kids and families can support those who need it. Discover the significance of Disability Pride Month and learn how celebrating our differences makes our community stronger and happier. Ms. Jenny shares her insights on the tasks someone receiving long-term care might need help with, and how caregiving can be influenced by culture and language. We also talk about our personal experiences with long-term care and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Tune in to hear how we can all play a role in supporting our friends, family members, and community members who need long-term care. Don't miss the heartwarming stories and practical tips for making a positive impact! Stay tuned for our next episode featuring Ms. Dorothy McCleod and Dr. Horace Alexander from the Jamaica Cultural Alliance, where we'll learn more about the beautiful island and people of Jamaica. Please purchase the book, A Kids Book About Long Term Care: https://akidsco.com/products/a-kids-book-about-long-term-care Connect with us: Website: culturekidsmedia.com Email: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Birthday shoutouts and more: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Gal Pal Productions: https://www.galpalproductions.com/ Ms. Jenny Abeling: https://www.jennyabeling.com/