IIn this Big Leader episode, we welcome back author and special educator, Celia Botto about her upcoming picture book, The Ostrich Needs a Lift.

Meet an ostrich who doesn't quite fit the mold and is trying to find his way back—only to discover that finding the right ride isn't easy. The ostrich is well aware of any accommodations he may need to get home safely. In fact, despite the setbacks he faces, the ostrich keeps going and young readers see perseverance in action.

Celia also shares the thoughtful layer of the story involving a boy who discovers the ostrich and makes a powerful leadership choice: to act rather than react. Through empathy, courage, and problem-solving, the boy shows what it means to step up when someone else needs help.

With bright, colorful illustrations and a relatable message, this episode is a fun and hope-filled conversation about persevering through challenges, showing empathy, and taking action when it matters most.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. The Snurtch

Author: Sean Ferrell Illustrator: Charles Santoso

Some days are Snurtch days. Ruthie is having one of those.

She has a problem at school.

It is not the students. It is not the classroom. It is not the reading or the writing or the math. It is something scribbly, scrunchy, grabby, burpy, and rude. It is the Snurtch.

This clever picture book takes a discerning look at the challenges of behaving and controlling your emotions—especially when your own personal monster keeps getting in the way.

Author: Mr. Jay Illustrator: Erin Wozniak

From zippy little pebbles to big strong boulders, the rock friends get together to play and roll around their favorite hill, only to find that one of their friends, Ricky, can't roll with them. Unlike all of the other rocks, who are all round, Ricky can't roll because he's flat on one side.

Determined not to leave their friend behind, the rocks set out to help Ricky roll - one way or another.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. Have you ever felt like you didn't quite "fit in"? What helped you keep going anyway?

2. If you found the ostrich, what is the first helpful action you would take?

3. What does it mean to act instead of react when someone needs help?

4. Why do you think perseverance is important when things don't go as planned?

5. Who is someone in your life that shows empathy through their actions?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Celia?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

In our first 2026 episode, Mason shares how his love for acting, football, and basketball keeps him energized and motivated every day. He opens up about why treating others the way you want to be treated is the foundation of real leadership, and how staying active helps him stay confident. When life feels busy or overwhelming, Mason turns to deep breaths and drawing to calm his mind before jumping back into the activities he loves. His message to other kids is simple but powerful: anything you do can inspire someone else — so keep showing the world what's possible. Listen to Mason's episode and be reminded that leadership starts with kindness and inclusion.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Hurry Up!: A Book About Slowing Down

Author: Kate Dopirak Illustrator: Christopher Silas Neal

A busy boy and his dog learn to slow down and enjoy life together in this lyrical, rhyming picture book perfect for hurried families everywhere.

For one busy boy, life is all hurry up, hurry down, hurry round and round and round! That is until he takes a big breath...and a big break...and slows down to see all the wonderful things in the world around him.

Author: Maria Dismondy Illustrator: Kim Shaw

Lucy has big hair, eats fun foods and is teased by a boy named Ralph at school because she is different. She tries to be brave but she wishes the teasing would stop. What should I do? she asks herself over and over.

Lucy's Papa Gino reminds her to do the right thing and treat people with kindness. So when Ralph gets stuck on the playground and needs help, will Lucy use this chance to teach Ralph a lesson? Or will she have the courage to be true to herself and make the right choice with an act of kindness?

Readers of all ages can empathize with Lucy's brave journey as she sets out to rise above Ralph's mean words, stay true to herself and build her self-esteem every step of the way.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What helps you calm down when life feels busy or overwhelming?

2. What's one way you showed kindness or fairness to someone this week?

3. What activities make you feel energized and confident?

4. Who inspires you, and how do you try to inspire others?

5. Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel included? What happened?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Mason?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina

Meet Allie, a third grader whose love for dance, modeling, and the arts shines as bright as her smile! Whether she's learning new dance moves with friends or helping others master theirs, Allie's enthusiasm and kindness make her a true Lil' Leader. She embraces every challenge in her dance classes and believes in following big dreams—like one day becoming a doctor.

Tune in to hear how Allie's creativity, confidence, and caring heart inspire everyone around her to keep learning and growing.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Most Marshmallows

Author & Illustrator: Rowboat Watkins

Most marshmallows are born into marshmallow families, play with marshmallow friends, and go to marshmallow school where they learn to be squishy. Most marshmallows read a book before bed and then fall asleep to dream ordinary marshmallow dreams.
But, this book isn't about most marshamallows, is it? No. That's because author Rowboat Watkins knows that, just like you, some marshmallows have big dreams, and just like you, these marshmallows can do anything they set their minds to. This sweet and silly book is an inspiring reminder to everyone that by being true to ourselves, each of us has the power to be extraordinary. Whether for a new parent or a recent graduate, the message here will fit the bill.

Author & Illustrator: Bob Staake

On this playfully illustrated journey with Bob Staake, children and adults alike will discover an encouraging truth: our path through life is not only challenging and beautiful—it is all our own to discover and invent.

"You will walk. You will walk along a well-worn path that many people have taken—and long before you." So begins this inspirational journey over gentle, grassy hills, through fields of wildflowers, over raging rivers, up steep mountains, and even through a dark, chilly cave. When it splits in two, you will have to decide what to do next—and you'll create a path that's unique to you.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. What's something creative you love to do, just like Allie?

2. How do you feel when you try a new skill or hobby?

3. Who's someone you've helped learn something new recently?

4. What big dream do you have for your future?

5. Why do you think helping others can make you a stronger leader?

6. What is your main take away from today's episode with Allie?

Have a great week everyone!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina