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What if every blunder you made could blossom into something beautiful? Take it from your hedgehog buddy, Redge, who frolics through his failures in his very own field of daisies! He plants a seed for every big—and little—misstep and mistake he makes and they sprout into a spectacular floral garden. From salty cookie catastrophes to daring belly flops, Redge shows us how he celebrates his "oopsies" as opportunities to learn and grow.

This episode was inspired by the children’s book “Fail-a-bration” by the New York Times bestselling duo, Brad and Kristi Montague. We’re big fans of their work! The book’s joyful message that failing means you’re trying, learning, and growing is exactly what we wanted to bring into our world of Once Upon a Time. Available now at your favorite bookseller: https://montagueworkshop.com/failabration 

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/redges-oopsie-daisies/     

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep101freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:  This story invites kids to reframe their view of failure as a chance for growth. By embracing mistakes, kids learn to see them as normal parts of life rather than something to be ashamed of. 

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about learning from and celebrating your failures, you may also enjoy this episode on how to manage overwhelming feelings in EP49: Big Bad’s Big Feelings: https://jonincharacter.com/big-bads-big-feelings/ 

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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Redge stumbles upon a dazzling, magical plant—the Radiant Root—glowing with glittering leaves and capable of conjuring a feast of the imagination for 100 creatures. The only problem? It's deeply rooted in the Folktale Forest, and even the Hedge Witch, Zinnia Fig, can’t uproot it alone. Soon, friends from all over Once Upon a Time come together to use their strengths, spells and specialties to lift the Radiant Root. Will their teamwork turn into a triumphant night that will stay in their hearts forever?

We’re celebrating a magical milestone! This episode marks our 100th original story in the Dorktales Storytime podcast, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate it with you. It was Inspired by a listener suggestion from Grant. Thanks Grant! And thanks to all of you who come to visit us in the lands of Once Upon a Time. 

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-radiant-root/                

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this kids’ story:
 https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep100freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:  This episode is inspired by the classic fairytale, “The Giant Turnip” and it teaches the importance of collaboration, creativity, and community. Through the characters' efforts to unearth the magical root, the story demonstrates how everyone’s unique skills contribute to achieving a shared goal. Through their collective work, they earn a feast of their favorite foods, showing that inclusivity and teamwork make challenges easier and more enjoyable. The story also highlights gratitude and joy in friendships, reinforcing that meaningful things happen when we unite with kindness, enthusiasm, and shared purpose. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about the community celebrations in Once Upon a Time, you may also like to listen to, EP80: Snow Time: https://jonincharacter.com/snow-time/ 

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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It’s time to grab your candy, turn off the lights, and get ready for our encore presentation of Sleepy Hallow’s Eve—a tale that will give you just the right amount of shivers and giggles! 

Hello boils, ghouls, and non-corporeal entities! Our SCARE-rator is here to tell you a spooky tale that will send shivers up your quivers and make your teeth chatter with delight! It’s party time at Katrina’s house and Ichabod Crane is having the time of his life. Jealous of his fun, Brom Bones gathers the guests to tell the chilling tale of the Headless Horseman, because he knows it will make sweet, but superstitious, Ichabod shriek and head for home. And when he does, poor Ichabod encounters something sinister in the woods. Is it the bully Brom playing an evil prank or the legendary ghoulish ghost? 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This is a retelling of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Besides being a spooky story with some geeky references to Sonic the Hedgehog, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, there is an opportunity to talk to kids about jealousy, bullying, and standing up for yourself. 

Episode Webpage:
https://jonincharacter.com/sleepy-hallows-eve/     

Find more Dorktales’ Halloween Tales: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-kid-friendly-podcast-playlist-for-a-hauntingly-fun-halloween/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, edited by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings. 

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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An inspiring story that will rock your world! Meet Simon Tam, the visionary founder of the Asian American band, The Slants. Follow his path from a young music lover to a trailblazing activist who stood up for free speech and fair representation. His desire to reclaim a hurtful term and turn it into something positive and empowering became a groundbreaking case at the U.S. Supreme Court. Discover how his fight for the band’s name became a victory for artistic expression. Simon’s story shows us that resilience, courage and using one’s voice—and music—can make a difference.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/simon-tam/           

Get a free activity guide on Simon Tam: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep99freePDF 

This episode of Dorktales Storytime is presented by Red Comet Press, and their hardcover children’s book, We Sing From the Heart, by Mia Wenjen with illustrations by Victor Bizar Gómez. This Junior Library Guild Gold Selection inspired this Hidden Heroes of History story. Purchase this beautiful book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or from your favorite independent book store: https://www.redcometpress.com/picturebooks/wesing 

Learn about more Asian American and Pacific Islander hidden heroes of history:  https://jonincharacter.com/kids-podcast-playlist-for-aapi-heritage-month/

CREDITS: Dorktales’ Hidden Heroes of History is a Jonincharacter production. This episode was written and produced by Molly Murphy. Howie was voiced by Asher Kim from the Culture Kids Podcast. All other characters were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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Jonathan and Redge adventure into The Tomes, the vast desert of Once Upon a Time, when they stumble into a mysterious tomb—and find themselves on a ghoulish (and very goofy) game show. The two must solve haunting riddles, guess what’s missing in an ancient witch’s potion, and test their courage in the chilling, thrilling Malevolent Maze of the Mummy! Can they work together to tackle all the terrifying twists and turns or will they be lost in The Tomes desert forever?

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/thats-a-wrap-halloween-story/     

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep98freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:  In this Halloween episode "That's A Wrap!," young listeners learn valuable lessons in problem-solving, teamwork, and emotional resilience as Jonathan and Redge navigate a spooky maze and solve the mummy's riddles. The episode encourages self-awareness, teaching kids to recognize and manage their emotions, especially when faced with fear or uncertainty. Through teamwork and responsible decision-making, Jonathan and Redge demonstrate how collaboration and staying calm under pressure can help overcome challenges, making this episode a fun and meaningful way to reinforce social-emotional skills.

MORE DORKTALES HALLOWEEN EPISODES 

• Goop Hog from Lumen Lagoon: https://jonincharacter.com/goop-hog-halloween-tale/ 
• Hogenstein: https://jonincharacter.com/hogenstein-a-halloween-tale/ 
• Sleepy Hallow’s Eve: https://jonincharacter.com/sleepy-hallows-eve/  

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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REACH OUT!

• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
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• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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Jonathan is having the worst day ever—gum stuck in his hair, soaked clothes, and he's even missing a shoe! Redge thinks the wood nymphs caused Jonathan's series of unfortunate mishaps because he forgot to knock on wood. The two friends shrink down to the size of a speck of dust and go into the floorboards to investigate. But are the wood nymphs really creating bad luck or is it all an itty bitty misunderstanding?

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/knock-on-wood/               

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep97freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:  This episode was inspired by the superstition to “knock on wood,” for good luck. Through Jonathan’s challenges, kids learn about: 1) the resilience of turning bad days around through a positive outlook; 2) curiosity and how asking questions and investigating the unknown can lead to creative solutions, and 3) critical thinking and separating facts from fiction. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about shrinking down and exploring tiny places, go on an adventure to Once Upon a Time realm’s tiniest town in EP85 The Scribbleton Scramble: https://jonincharacter.com/the-scribbleton-scramble/  

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Monique Hafen Adams, edited and produced by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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REACH OUT!

• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
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• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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It’s hotline time! In this special Fall episode, Mr. Redge and Jonathan answer listener questions and give shout-outs to our Dorktales friends from around the world. From the reason behind Redge’s happy dance after every story, to the most important tale Jonathan’s ever told, there’s a whole lot of fun, laughter, and heartwarming moments waiting for you. There are also some super cool shout-outs to our amazing listeners and even a secret reveal about Redge’s mysterious middle name. Let’s celebrate our Dorktales community together!

Grown-ups, your feedback is invaluable to us, so please take a moment to fill out our survey and receive a special map of Dorktales Once Upon a Time lands as a thank you. Young listeners, keep your questions coming for a chance to be featured in a future Mr. Redge’s Hotline episode.

SURVEY: Grownups, help us make stories your family loves to hear by filling out this quick survey: https://forms.gle/LWq6r2v5WDpVqzBX8

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 

• The Great Acorn Incident: https://jonincharacter.com/the-great-acorn-incident/ 
• View the illustration that shows Mr. Redge’s hovel: https://jonincharacter.com/jolly-holly-hedgehog/ 
• Hedge Knight in Training:  https://jonincharacter.com/redges-knight-school/ 

WAYS TO SEND IN YOUR QUESTION:

Record your child saying their first name, age and their awesome question. Send the recording to us at [email protected]

Use the contact us form on our website: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/  
 

Support the show

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• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
• Send us an email: [email protected]
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
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Your mission—should you choose to accept it—is to follow agents Jack A. Lope and Double-Oh-Quills on their action-packed spy-tacular adventure! When the meanie minotaur, Bull Dozer, steals Niko the Unicorn’s magical golden bow tie, it’s up to the quirky agents to retrieve it before all of Legend Lake falls into chaos. Armed with cool spy gadgets, clever disguises and their own good sense, they race against time to outsmart the baddies and save unicorn magic.

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/operation-golden-tie/

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LIST of conversation questions for this kids' story: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep96freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This Dorktales story for kids is a Saturday morning cartoon-like spy adventure that speaks to the magic of our imaginations. Some of the key lessons from this story include: the power of teamwork, creative problem solving, trust and supportive friendships, clear communication, resilience and perseverance, and the joys of pretending. (Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS KIDS & FAMILY STORY, give the mythological adventure to Legend Lake EP83 Bigfoot’s Legendary Birdsong a listen: https://jonincharacter.com/bigfoots-legendary-birdsong/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings 

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
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• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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Mr. Redge starts acting strange after a mysterious encounter in the garden. Jonathan grows worried because his best hedgehog friend has lost interest in their day of adventure. To solve this mystery, Jonathan asks his STEM princess friend Rapunzel for help. What could be causing Redge’s unusual behavior? With her love for science, Rapunzel proposes a hypothesis and sets up a hopscotch experiment to get to the root of Redge’s strange behavior. Will they solve the mystery and hop Redge back into his energetic, fun-loving self?

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/rapunzels-hopscotch-hypothesis/

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF LISTof conversation questions for this episode: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep95freePDF

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS:Our STEM princess returns in "Rapunzel's Hopscotch Hypothesis," where the power of curiosity, teamwork, and scientific problem-solving takes center stage. Through a fun and imaginative tale, this episode offers kids a chance to reflect on how they approach challenges, work with others, and explore the world around them.(Aligns with CASEL Social and Emotional learning framework)

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY with Rapunzel, you may also enjoy our reimagined Rapunzel tale in episode 43, Rapunzel, Rapunzel, Let Down Your Science Experiment: https://jonincharacter.com/rapunzel/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Melissa Victor, edited and produced by Molly Murphy, and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
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A captivating tale of determination and the bright lights of Broadway! From his beginnings in a Bronx tenement, Moss Hart became one of the most talented figures in American theater history. His journey from office boy to legendary playwright, stage director and screenwriter is a testament to the power of dreams and perseverance. His award-winning collaborations with George S. Kaufman and Irving Berlin left a lasting mark on the arts. And, his autobiography, “Act One” continues to inspire creative artists to this day. 

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/moss-hart/         

Get a free activity guide on Moss Hart: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep94freePDF

If you enjoyed this story about a hidden hero who came from New York, you may also enjoy learning about Emma Lazarus: https://jonincharacter.com/emma-lazarus/

CREDITS: Hidden Heroes of History is a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Rebecca Cunningham, edited and produced by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Hamilton Studio Recordings.

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

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REACH OUT!

• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
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• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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With a new school year just around the corner, we know many of you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Our friend Big Bad also had back-to-school jitters, and he found comfort and support from his friends. They helped him manage his fears and guided him back to his calm and confident self. 

As you prepare for a new school year or start something new, remember that it's okay to feel nervous. Learning to calm yourself and seeking support from friends and family can make a big difference. And always remember, we believe in you and know that you've got this!

Enjoy this special encore of Big Bad Goes Back to School:
https://jonincharacter.com/big-bad-goes-back-to-school/   

Get your free Dorktales Resource Library Card: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card     

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: As back-to-school season approaches, it’s not uncommon for young minds to be filled with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. In Big Bad goes Back to School, these worries take center stage, only to be met with empathy and understanding. The lessons that emerge from this story provide comfort, encouragement, and tools for navigating the overwhelming feelings that can happen when a new school year begins. The episode includes two guided mindfulness exercises.

If you liked this story with Big Bad and Serena the caring capybara, you may also enjoy episode 49, Big Bad’s Big Feelings, where you’ll discover more mindfulness exercises to help kids self-regulate their anxious feelings: https://jonincharacter.com/big-bads-big-feelings/

Dorktales Storytime Podcast website:
https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-storytime-podcast/

CREDITS: This episode has been a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Amy Thompson, and edited and produced by Molly Murphy. Jonathan, Mr. Redge and Big Bad were performed by Jonathan Cormur. Serena was performed by Chanel Tsang, the host of Peace Out podcast and author of Peace Out: Calm Down Workbook for Kids. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Ha

Did you hear Redge's secret message after the credits? Let Redge know what you think by texting (it's one way) or emailing [email protected] (if you want to hear back from him)

Support the show

REACH OUT!

• Send us a TEXT: if your young listener has a question. Pls include their first name in the text. Your name/number is hidden so it's a safe way to reach out.
• Send us an email: [email protected]
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Newsletter/Free Resources: https://bit.ly/dorktalesplus-signup
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• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

Now, go be the hero of your own story and we’ll see you next once-upon-a-time!