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Jonathan and Redge travel to the Cliffhangers eager to witness the legendary Color Pillars glow in the Spring Equinox light. But when they arrive in the village of Symbol Ism, they discover something is terribly wrong—the once-vibrant pillars are covered in an eerie, unexplainable muck. As they search for answers, they encounter someone who sees the fading pillars as a sign to tear down the ancient site and build a brand new theme park. With time slipping away, Jonathan and Redge must unravel the mystery of the pillars before their brilliance—and history itself—is lost forever.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-color-pillars/            

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep108freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In this adventure, Jonathan and Redge journey to the Cliffhangers to witness the legendary Color Pillars, only to find the historic site at risk of being torn down and replaced by a theme park. Through curiosity, teamwork, and advocacy, the duo uncovers the truth behind the fading glow and learns the importance of preserving history, respecting the environment, and standing up for what matters. This episode encourages kids to think critically, engage in problem-solving, and appreciate the value of cultural heritage.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about a special place in the Land of Once Upon A Time, you might like traveling to more lands with Harold the Hare Mail carrier and Redge in EP67 Special Delivery: https://jonincharacter.com/special-delivery/ 

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It 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 Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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Something mysterious is happening over Legend Lake—stars are vanishing from the night sky! When Jack A. Lope and Double-Oh-Quills receive an urgent message from Agent M, they suit up and soar into action. With the help of Kit and a clever prairie dog named Dusty, they track the missing stars to a top-secret lair hidden in plain sight. But who—or what—is behind this cosmic caper? Agents Lope and Quills must use all of their wits (and some nifty spy tech) to stop the star snatcher from stealing all of Once Upon a Time’s wishes and get the stars back where they belong.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/mysterious-mr-yes/       

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep107freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: "The Mysterious Mr. Yes" teaches kids valuable social-emotional skills, including self-awareness, decision-making, and relationship-building. Through the adventure, young listeners learn the importance of balancing curiosity with caution, empathy over having everything you want, and considering different perspectives. The story encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and communication while reinforcing the idea that setting boundaries is just as important as embracing new opportunities.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS SPY ADVENTURE with Agents Jack A. Lope and Double-Oh-Quills, you might like their first adventure EP96: Operation Golden Tie: https://jonincharacter.com/operation-golden-tie/  

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 Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
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It's time for another Mr. Redge’s Hotline—where we answer your questions and give some very special shout outs! 

Redge kicks things off with a hedgehog-huzzah for Ada, age 7, and then we’re off on a Q&A adventure with you, our amazing listeners. Want to know Redge’s top 10 favorite Dorktales stories (at least for the moment)? Wondering how a hedgehog gets a haircut (or doesn’t)? Curious about how Jonathan cheers himself up on a bad day? What about Redge’s snazzy outfits? Jonathan and Redge have the answers! Plus, we reveal the story behind the name Dorktales and explain why all our characters call Once Upon A Time their home.

FOR THE GROWNUPS: Want to send in a question for a future Hotline episode? Email us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com with your young listener’s first name, age, and their awesome question—written or recorded! You can also reach us through our contact form at https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/, leave a comment on Spotify, or include a question in a 5-star review. We’ll do our best to feature as many as we can!

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 

• The Prickly Duckling: https://jonincharacter.com/prickly-duckling/
• Three Billy Goats Buff: https://jonincharacter.com/three-billy-goats-buff/ 
• Little Red: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-little-red/ 
• Hogenstein: https://jonincharacter.com/hogenstein-a-halloween-tale/ 
• Little Redge Hen: https://jonincharacter.com/little-redge-hen/
• Sleepy Hallow’s Eve: https://jonincharacter.com/sleepy-hallows-eve/ 
• The Merry Band of Bremen: https://jonincharacter.com/merry-band-of-bremen/ 
• A Fowl First Impression: https://jonincharacter.com/fowl-first-impression/ 
• A Hedgehog’s Homerun: https://jonincharacter.com/hedgehogs-home-run/ 
• The Boy Who Cried Hedgewolf: https://jonincharacter.com/boy-who-cried-hedgewolf/ 

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• Send us an email: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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A story of drive and determination! Shirley Chisholm, known as being a person for the people, was the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. From her childhood in Brooklyn and Barbados to standing up for fairness, education and equal rights, Shirley never backed down from a challenge. She boldly ran for President to continue her quest to make life better for everyone in America. Through hard work, trailblazing ideas and a voice that couldn’t be ignored, Shirley Chisholm changed people’s lives and proved that there will always be something worth fighting for.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/shirley-chisholm/            

Get a free activity guide on Shirley Chisholm: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep106freePDF 

If you enjoyed this story about Shirley Chisholm, you may also enjoy learning about Wilma Rudolph, another hidden hero of history who also had drive and determination to cross the finish line and change the world: https://jonincharacter.com/wilma-rudolph/ 

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 Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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Redge’s plans for the Bubbly, Cuddly, Huggly, Snuggly Hearts Party are in jeopardy when the musical act cancels at the last minute. Redge knows the show must go on if he wants this special celebration of friendship to be truly unforgettable. Luckily, he knows just who to put on the bill—the Hey Diddle, Diddle crew! With Cat on the fiddle, Cow jumping over the moon, and Dish and Spoon racing around, they seem like the perfect performers. But something is missing. Dog, the heart of their act, has lost his laugh, and no one knows how to bring it back. Can Jonathan and Redge hatch a plan to restore Dog’s joy to save the party—and rhyme— in the nick of time?

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/hey-diddle-diddle-and-the-lost-laugh/           

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep105freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In Dorktales Storytime’s "Hey Diddle, Diddle and the Lost Laugh" kids learn that supporting friends through difficult times, using creativity to solve problems, and recognizing the importance of every individual in a group can make a big difference. It also reinforces that when things don’t go as planned, working together and staying positive can lead to a joyful outcome.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about a classic rhyme, you might enjoy the silly rhymes in EP52: The Tornado Two-Step, a remake of a classic tall tale: https://jonincharacter.com/tornado-two-step/ 

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. It 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 Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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Jonathan and Redge are gearing up for their Thrilling and Astounding Lore Expedition (T.A.L.E.) tour, but first, Redge has a special surprise for Jonathan—a magical minivan equipped with everything they’ll need for their storytelling road trip adventures! Outfitted with drive mode, fly mode, teeny tiny shrink and deep sea dive modes—this van has every gizmo and gadget they’ll need to explore new places, meet magical creatures, and gather stories galore.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/magical-minivan-tale/   

Color while you listen: https://bit.ly/MagicalVanColorPage 

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep104freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: This episode focuses on important lessons about preparation, flexibility, and teamwork. While Jonathan and Redge get ready for their T.A.L.E. tour, kids learn how being prepared and open to changes can make any journey more successful and enjoyable. The story emphasizes the value of appreciating the process, not just the goal, and encourages using creativity and imagination to approach challenges.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about getting ready for a road trip in Once Upon A Time, you might like EP79: A Big City Adventure - Welcome to Litropia: https://jonincharacter.com/big-city-adventure/ 

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 Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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We’re revisiting an episode from the early days of Dorktales Storytime as we get ready for the launch of Season 6 with brand-new tales and adventures on February 6th! “The Three Little Hogs” was the very first fairy tale we told when the podcast began in 2020. It’s where you’ll meet the three hedgehog brothers—Percy, Porky, and Peregrin—and encounter the Big Bad Wolf before he had a change of heart. Relive the beginnings of Jonathan and Redge’s budding friendship before they set off on their storytelling journey together.

The Three Little…HOGS? Who’s heard of that? According to Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog, our Dorktales sidekick, it’s a classic tale from the fairy tale cannon! Come hear our storyteller recount the story of hedgehogs Porky, Percy and Peregrin, and their ultimate triumph over the dastardly wolf using a glue pot, rapier and a wheel barrow. According to Percy, “It’s epic, man!”

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/dorktales-three-little-hogs/ 

HEY GROWNUPS: Sign up to receive our podcast newsletter every two weeks and you'll receive FREE access to our Dorktales Storytime Podcast's Resource Library filled with activity guides, conversation starter PDFs, printables and more: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card  

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Karen Simpson Gardner and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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As we prepare for the exciting launch of Season 6 of Dorktales Storytime on February 6th, we’re revisiting some favorite past adventures. Ever wondered how Jonathan found the magical doorway into Once Upon a Time or met his storytelling best friend, Reginald T. Hedgehog? This is the backstory to all our Dorktales adventures. This also answers the question our listener friend, Jose, asked about how Jonathan can go between Once Upon a Time and the real world. 

On an otherwise normal day, a portal opens in a mysterious tree hidden in the very corners of a California redwood forest. Jonathan walks through the trunk and tumbles into the mystical, magical land of Once Upon a Time. Mr. Reginald T. Hedgehog, who’s out on his daily walk around his hovel, encounters this lost human. The two discover their kinship and begin their quest to bring joy and understanding to others through stories. As the sun sets behind the Cliffhanger mountains, they set sail across the Fantasea in pursuit of their first storytelling adventures!

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/the-magical-doorway

HEY GROWNUPS: Sign up to receive our podcast newsletter every two weeks and you'll receive FREE access to our Dorktales Storytime Podcast's Resource Library filled with activity guides, conversation starter PDFs, printables and more: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card  

CREDITS: This episode is a Jonincharacter production. Today’s story was written by Molly Murphy and performed by Jonathan Cormur. Sound recording and production by Jermaine Hamilton at Pacific Grove Soundworks.

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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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We’re wrapping up the year and our season of original stories for kids (and their geeky grownups) with a festively fun bonus episode. Join Jonathan and Mr. Redge as they answer listener questions from around the world and give shout-outs to our incredible Dorktales Storytime fans.

This episode includes:

•  Zahra’s question about Redge’s favorite adventure (spoiler: it’s spy-tacular!)
•  Jonathan’s stories about his creative sibling, Molly, who helps make Dorktales magical.
•  Redge’s dashing answer to why he’s “Mr.” at just three years old.

Thank you for a wonderful year of storytelling. Happy New Year, and we’ll see you in 2025! 

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: 

• Operation Golden Tie: https://jonincharacter.com/operation-golden-tie/ 

FOR GROWNUPS:

• Email us with a question and/or record your child saying their first name, age and their awesome question. Send the recording to us at dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• Use the contact us form on our website: https://jonincharacter.com/contact-the-podcast/  

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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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Blast off into the story of Dr. Ellen Ochoa, a trailblazer in space exploration! As an astronaut, engineer, scientist, inventor, and the first Latina woman to journey into space, Dr. Ochoa broke barriers and reached for the stars—literally. During four missions, she spent nearly 1,000 hours in orbit. She studied Earth’s atmosphere, mastered robotic technology, and contributed to the creation of the International Space Station. Her groundbreaking work didn’t stop there—Dr. Ochoa later became the deputy director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, paving the way for future generations to explore the cosmos and make their mark on humanity's greatest frontier.

Go to the episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/ellen-ochoa/          

Get a free activity guide on Ellen Ochoa: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep103freePDF 

If you enjoyed this story about a hidden hero space visionary, you may also enjoy learning about Mary Golda Ross: https://jonincharacter.com/mary-golda-ross/ 

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.

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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.
• Send us an email: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• Our Pod's Songs on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/music

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It’s Jolly Holly season in the land of Once Upon a Time, and Pinocchio is in serious nose-growing trouble. He was left in charge of Geppetto’s chiming Jolly Holly clock—a cherished symbol of the season. When his curiosity gets the best of him, one clumsy mishap leads to another, and the clock breaks! In a panic, Pinocchio’s fanciful fibbing turns into a whale of a problem. Can his quest to right his wrongs ultimately save the Jolly Holly celebration? 

This episode features a sample of our Dorktales original song, "Jolly Holly Hedgehog Holiday." If you enjoyed the festive tune, you can find the full song available for purchase and download on Bandcamp: https://dorktalesstorytime.bandcamp.com/album/jolly-holly-hedgehog-holiday 

Episode webpage: https://jonincharacter.com/pinocchios-jolly-holly-jumble/     

GRAB YOUR FREE PDF list of conversation questions for this episode:
https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/ep102freePDF 

PARENTS, TEACHERS AND HOMESCHOOLERS: In this reimagining of classic characters, Pinocchio takes on an important task for Geppetto but struggles with impulsivity, leading to a string of mishaps and fibs to cover them up. This story provides a meaningful opportunity to explore themes like  honesty, trust, accountability, and the value of taking responsibility for your actions. Through Pinocchio’s journey, children will learn that while mistakes are part of life, no problem is unfixable if you remain truthful and seek out help when you need it. 

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS STORY about the land of Once Upon a Time’s Jolly Holly season, you might like another one of its holiday traditions in EP58: ’Twas a Night Most Jolly Holly: https://jonincharacter.com/twas-a-night-most-jolly-holly/ 

CREDITS: This episode is 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.

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: dorktalesstorytime@gmail.com
• DM us on IG @dorktalesstorytime
• Library of Resources: https://dorktalesstorytime.aweb.page/Dorktales-Library-Card
• One time donation: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dorktales
• 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!