Get ready for a thrilling adventure with Kristen and Asher, as we explore cultures, languages, and traditions around the world! From different greetings around the world to the depths of the Great Blue Hole, we hope to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse culture and geographies for families everywhere. Through each episode, we aim to help children become empathetic, creative, and global-minded leaders in their communities. So pack your bags, because it’s time to expand our imagination and become globe-trottin’ explorers in the comfort of our own homes!Â
The Culture Kids Podcast is an absolute gem of a podcast that provides a fun and engaging cultural education for children and adults alike. With its catchy theme song, diverse content about places and cultures around the world, and entertaining knock knock jokes at the end, what's not to love? As a parent, I appreciate how easy and enjoyable it is to listen to with my kid while driving. It has become our go-to podcast when we're stuck in traffic and in need of exciting content.
One of the best aspects of The Culture Kids Podcast is how cute, fun, and informative it is. The hosts, Kristen and Asher, do a fantastic job of keeping children entertained while teaching them about different cultures. The episodes are filled with interesting facts that kids soak up like sponges. It's amazing to see how much they learn from this podcast and apply it in their daily lives. For example, my child was able to differentiate between gelato and ice cream because of something they heard on the show. This podcast truly fosters learning in a meaningful way.
Another great aspect is that The Culture Kids Podcast provides a safe listening experience for children without any monitoring required. The hosts present information in an age-appropriate manner, making it suitable for kids of all ages. As a parent, I feel at ease knowing that my child can listen to this podcast without any inappropriate content or language.
In this global era, it's crucial for children to have exposure to different cultures. The Culture Kids Podcast fulfills this need by offering a wide range of cultural stories from around the world. It helps create awareness and understanding among children about people from diverse backgrounds. This podcast promotes inclusivity and kindness through its messages, which are important values for children to learn.
In conclusion, I highly recommend The Culture Kids Podcast for anyone seeking a fun and educational cultural experience for their children (and themselves!). From its catchy theme song to its informative content, it offers a delightful listening experience. Whether you're on a short road trip or simply stuck in traffic, this podcast is guaranteed to engage and entertain. It's a high-quality podcast that has become a favorite in our household, and I can't wait for more episodes to come.
All aboard the Culture Train, Culture Kids! In this sweet adventure, Kristen, Asher, and their friend Finley travel all the way to Switzerland to explore the world-famous Lindt Home of Chocolate. From the soaring atrium filled with the aroma of cocoa, to the breathtaking chocolate fountain pouring from a giant golden whisk, this journey takes you inside the magic of Swiss chocolate. With the help of Ms. Leona, an apprentice chocolatier, we learn how Rodolphe Lindt's invention of the conche transformed chocolate into the smooth, creamy treat we know today. Along the way, the kids discover fun facts about Switzerland's culture, history, and inventions, and of course...taste plenty of Lindor chocolate! About Culture Kids Culture Kids Podcast is a nonprofit family show dedicated to fostering a multicultural mindset in the next generation. If you'd like to support our mission, please visit culturekidsproductions.org and click on the Support tab. Connect with us: culturekidsproductions@gmail.com or DM on Instagram @culturekidsproductions—we love hearing from you! About Lindt & Sprüngli: Special thanks to our friends at Lindt & Sprüngli, home of Switzerland's world-renowned Lindt chocolate, for welcoming us into their Home of Chocolate. To learn more or plan your own visit, check out www.lindt-home-of-chocolate.com. And a very big thank you to Finley and his whole family for joining us on this adventure—we're so grateful to share the journey with you. Credits: Executive Producer/Host/Writer/Editor: Kristen Kim Producer & Host: Asher Kim Host & Producers: Leona Boomsma, Dominik Cadosch, Lydia Toth Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Audio Engineer & Post: Robin Lai Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad Sound Design Elements: Envato
Hop back on the Culture Train and join us for another exciting journey to Lagos, Nigeria! This time, our friend Mr. Taofeek, Co-Founder of Visit Nigeria Now, takes us to one of his favorite spots—House of Pounded Yam—for a delicious dive into traditional Yoruba cuisine. In this episode, you'll: Learn what eeyon (pounded yam) is and how it's enjoyed with flavorful soups and stews. Taste (through your imagination!) three beloved Yoruba dishes: Ogbono Soup – nutty, earthy, and stretchy, made from bush mango seeds. Efo Riro – a rich spinach stew with a spicy kick, palm oil, and tasty proteins like prawns or snails. Fisherman's Soup – a seafood lover's dream, filled with prawns, crabs, okra, and smoky spices. Discover the story behind jollof rice and why Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal all claim to make the tastiest version. Hear about cultural dining traditions, from eating with your hands to sharing food as a way of building community. Along the way, we explore how food connects people to their heritage, sparks curiosity about the world, and turns every meal into a shared story.
Kristen and Asher invite you to board their magical Culture Kids boat in Long Beach, California, and set sail across glittering Pacific waves to meet playful dolphins in the wild. Picture the sea breeze, sparkling waves, seabird calls, and our imaginations fully immersed in ocean magic. Asher's excited to spot dolphins—maybe Common Dolphins joining the ocean party, or Bottlenose, Pacific White-sided, and even the scarred Risso's with their doodle-like marks. We explore what dolphins eat (think fish, squid, shrimp, and even jellyfish), learn how orcas are actually dolphins (mind = blown), and gasp when a pod appears, circling and leaping around the boat like nature's own ballet. We play along in our imagination—snorkels, life jackets, and all—while respecting that in real life, wild dolphins need space. Underwater, we dive deeper into dolphin superpowers: echolocation clicks, signature whistles (each dolphin's name song), and self-awareness—yes, dolphins recognize themselves in mirrors! Then, we pivot to an important message—real dolphins face dangers like fishing nets and pollution. Small choices to recycle, reduce plastic, and protect the ocean are big wins for our sea friends. To wrap up, we sun-dry on the deck, feel joyful, and invite Culture Kids families to dream with us—seahorses, sea turtles, sea creatures not yet discovered. Next up: episodes on Yoruba Cuisine in Nigeria and Swiss Chocolate! Don't forget to subscribe, spread the word, and help the Culture Train reach more curious hearts around the world. Stay Connected with Culture Kids! Website: Visit us online at culturekidsproductions.org for episode info, behind-the-scenes updates, support opportunities, and more. Instagram: Follow our adventures and fun extras on @culturekidsproductions, where you'll find reels, stories, and bonus content Email: Send us a message or DM us for birthday shoutouts or episode requests! Questions, feedback, or collaboration ideas: Contact us at hello@culturekidsmedia.com Sources: https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/marine-mammals/evolution-echolocation?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://nmmf.org/our-work/biologic-bioacoustic-research/biosonar-research/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC33317/?utm https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/11-cool-facts-about-whales-dolphins-and-porpoises https://2seewhales.com/blog/the-basics-of-dolphin-diets https://dolphinsandyou.com/do-dolphins-have-names/
Join hosts Asher and Kristen as they board the Culture Train and return to Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, Italy! After visiting the colorful cliffside villages, today they head uphill to learn the true art of Ligurian pesto from Ms Barbara—right in her fragrant basil garden with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. From basil grown in nearby Pra' to marble pestles and pine nuts, discover the traditions and flavors that make pesto à la Genovese so special. Fasten your imaginary aprons—we're making pesto the Ligurian way: buzzing basil gardens, marble mortars, and salt-sprinkled sea breezes. Discover ingredient secrets: sweet Pra'-grown basil, two-year-aged Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh Italian pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and sea salt. Learn why using a cold marble mortar matters Cultural connections: hear how veggies, herbs, and cooking pass through generations, from Ms Barbara's grandmother to our family kitchens.
In this exciting episode of Culture Kids, Asher and his mom Kristen board their imaginary culture train and land in Lagos, Nigeria, where they're joined by their local friend Mr. Taofeek Co Founder of Visit Nigeria Now. The trio takes on Africa's longest canopy walkway at the lush Lekki Conservation Centre, wobbling over treetops, spotting cheeky mona monkeys with cheek pouches, and even catching glimpses of crocodiles below—all while taking in sweeping views of Lagos's skyline and shoreline. Mr. Taofeek shares amazing cultural insights—from teaching Asher how to say “Ekabo!” (“Welcome!” in Yoruba) to explaining how English helps unite Nigeria's 500+ ethnic groups—and teases the vibrant arts and crafts market where coral and plastic bead treasures await. With playful squeaks from Asher and thoughtful moments with Kristen, this adventure is a perfect blend of laughter, learning, and cultural connection. Follow Visit Nigeria Now on Instagram for breathtaking scenes and travel tips—from waterfalls to city lights → Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit_nigeria_now Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitnigerianow Help keep the Culture Train rolling!!
Hop aboard the Culture Train with Kristen and Asher as we travel to one of Italy's most magical destinations—Cinque Terre, also known as the Five Lands! Nestled along the cliffs of the Ligurian coast, this episode is full of sparkling seas, lemon trees, olive groves, colorful homes, and centuries of tradition. We meet our friend Ms. Anna from Cinque Terre dal Mare, who shows us what makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site so special. From pesto and olive oil to gelato and seaside hikes, this journey is full of sensory surprises, silly jokes, and thoughtful reflections for kids and grown-ups alike.
Hop aboard the Culture Train with Asher, Kristen and their special guest Robin as they take young listeners on an immersive journey to Ipoh, Malaysia! In this colorful and educational episode, our hosts explore geology, language, and—of course—food. Discover why this vibrant city is famous for feasting and adventure! Meet Our Local Friend, Robin! • Born and raised in Ipoh, Robin shares insider secrets—from culinary tastes to cultural traditions. • He opens up about Malaysia's 135+ languages, and how locals naturally switch between Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil, and more! • Kristen explains how Ipoh is nestled between Kuala Lumpur and Penang, surrounded by limestone hills. • Asher's super-relatable curiosity helps kids picture river valleys, caves, and temples! 2. Foodie Fun! • Ever seen muscle-y bean sprouts? Kids learn how Ipoh's mineral-rich spring water makes them fat, plump, and super juicy. • We try Bean Sprout Chicken (Nga Choy Kai)—crunchy sprouts meet tender chicken in a flavorful harmony. • And the star: Kai See Hor Fun, a silky, smooth flat noodle soup made with luxe local water—perfect for slurping (it's polite in Malaysia!). 3. Cultural Etiquette & Fun Facts • Slurping—when polite, fun, and part of the experience! • Language switching is like changing TV channels—Malaysia's linguistic magic revealed. 4. Cave Temples Teaser • Robin teases a visit to Kek Lok Tong, a secretive limestone cave temple with golden statues, peaceful gardens, and magical acoustics. Please support our mission! Website: http://culturekidsproductions.org/support ⭐ Rate & Subscribe to help us grow and reach kids around the world ⏭️ Next stop: The ARCTIC, Nigeria, Italy, and more—don't miss our upcoming Culture Train adventures!
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!
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
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!