Culture Kids

Are bats and snakes really as spooky as they seem? Hop back aboard the magical Culture Train with Kristen, Asher, and Arden as we return to our Spooky Forest Adventure for Halloween! We start with a peek into Halloween history, tracing it back thousands of years to Samhain, an ancient Celtic harvest festival in Ireland with bonfires, costumes, and masks. Then we head into the moonlit forest, where we meet two of the most famous Halloween creatures of all. First come the bats! Families will learn that out of more than 1,400 bat species, only three drink blood, and most bats eat insects or fruit and even help pollinate flowers. We discover why bats became a symbol of good fortune in Chinese art and how fruit bats hold a special place in Tongan tradition. Next, a snake slithers across our path! We explore how snakes have carried very different meanings across cultures, from the cobra goddess Wadjet who protected Egyptian pharaohs to the Greek healer Asclepius, whose snake-wrapped staff is still a symbol of…

In this episode, the Culture Train sails to Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, to meet Mark from the Polynesian Voyaging Society and step aboard Hōkūleʻa, a traditional double-hulled voyaging canoe. Kids learn how the Hawaiian Islands formed, what it means to sail using wayfinding (ancient, non-instrument navigation using the stars, sun, wind, and waves), and why this tradition still matters today. ********** ABOUT THE POLYNESIAN VOYAGING SOCIETY: Founded in 1973 by Herb Kawainui Kāne, Ben Finney, and Tommy Holmes, the Polynesian Voyaging Society was created to prove that ancient Polynesians navigated across the Pacific with skill and purpose, not by accident. Their voyaging canoe, Hōkūleʻa ("Star of Gladness"), launched in 1975 and has since sailed over 300,000 nautical miles, carrying forward the practice of traditional wayfinding taught by master navigator Mau Piailug. Learn more and track Hōkūleʻa's real-time voyages at hokulea.com, or explore learning resources for kids at waahonua.com. Website: hokulea.com Social media:…

Culture Kids heads to the bottom of the world this episode, Antarctica! Join Mom and Asher as they explore towering icebergs, meet emperor penguins and a very sleepy Weddell seal, then dive nearly two miles beneath the frozen Weddell Sea to uncover one of the greatest shipwreck discoveries in modern history: Ernest Shackleton's Endurance, lost for over 100 years and found perfectly preserved on the ocean floor in 2022. Along the way, we learn why Antarctica is technically a desert, how emperor penguins huddle for warmth, why the Weddell Sea is one of the only places on Earth where a hundred-year-old wooden ship can still look brand new, and the incredible true story of how all 28 members of Shackleton's crew made it home safely. A Note from Culture Kids: Grown-ups, if you haven't already, please consider making a small donation to our nonprofit, Culture Kids. We're a small team with a big dream, raising a generation of kids who are curious, globally minded, and ready to make friendships across every border,…

Asher and Mom visit family friend Miral Sattar, whose roots stretch from Pakistan to Burma to Persia, for a hands-on lesson in how food becomes a love language across cultures. Kids will learn about Rooh Afza rose milk, crispy beef samosas, Burmese khow suey noodles, the tradition of chai hospitality, and creamy pistachio kulfi, all while discovering why sharing a meal is one of the most universal ways people show they care. About Miral Sattar: 🎧 Miral Sattar is the creator and host of Bearily Bear Reimagined Fairy Tales, an award-winning kids podcast with more than 3 million listeners that reimagines classic fairy tales with brave heroines, diverse cultures, and stories from around the world. She's also a mom of three and a children's media advocate passionate about raising curious, empathetic kids through stories. Bearily Bear Reimagined Fairy Tales: wherever you get your podcasts! Miral on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/miralreads⁠ About The Saami Family 🎶 A special thank you to The Saami Family…

It's a Culture Kids first, an entire episode made by YOU! For this summer special, Kristen and Asher hand the mic over to the Culture Kids community, featuring voicemails sent in from listeners all around the world sharing what they love most about the show, plus a whole lot of jokes to keep things silly. This episode is a celebration of the curious, kind, and adventurous kids who make up the Culture Kids family, and a reminder that every single explorer who tunes in is part of what makes this show special. Hosted by Kristen Kim and Asher, Culture Kids Productions Featuring voicemails from the Culture Kids community

Grab your imaginary passports, Culture Kids! In this episode, Kristen, Asher, and Arden hop aboard the Culture Train time machine to investigate one of history's most enduring legends: mermaids. Are they pure myth, or did real people really believe they saw one? The adventure begins over 2,300 years ago in the ancient city of Hierapolis, in what is now northern Syria, home to a sacred temple dedicated to the goddess Atargatis, widely considered one of the oldest mermaid-like figures in recorded history. From there, the Culture Train jumps nearly 1,800 years forward to 1493, landing aboard Christopher Columbus's ship in the Caribbean Sea, where Columbus famously recorded seeing three "mermaids" in his own journal. Along the way, kids discover that mermaid-like legends appear across cultures all over the world, from the ningyo of Japan to Mami Wata in West and Central Africa, and learn the real, scientific explanation historians believe is behind Columbus's sighting: the gentle, slow-moving manatee. It's a…

Grab your imaginary passports, Culture Kids! In this episode, Kristen and Asher welcome their friend Senna into the kitchen to cook up a Korean side dish called sukju namul (숙주나물), better known in English as seasoned mung bean sprouts. But this isn't just a cooking lesson. Halfway through sautéing sprouts with soy sauce and sesame oil, the Culture Train whisks the kids back to 15th century Hanyang (modern-day Seoul) during the Joseon Dynasty, where they uncover the real reason this humble vegetable carries the name of a royal scholar named Shin Suk-ju. Kids will learn how a political betrayal during a real moment in Korean history became forever linked to a fast-spoiling vegetable, and why Koreans have called mung bean sprouts "sukju namul" for hundreds of years. It's a story about food, memory, loyalty, and how history hides in the meals we eat every day. What mung bean sprouts (sukju namul) are and how they're prepared in Korean cooking The difference between how mung bean sprouts were cooked in the Joseon…

Kristen, Asher, and Arden board the Culture Train Time Machine and travel to two extraordinary moments in history. First, they land on the Persian Royal Road in 400 BCE, where merchants and travelers are exchanging stories from distant lands - including eyewitness accounts of mysterious one-horned creatures from beyond the rivers of India. Then they leap forward to a Medieval European castle, where knights and nobles are marveling at what they believe is a real unicorn horn - not knowing it is actually the spiral tusk of a narwhal, carried thousands of miles by clever traders. Along the way, kids learn how stories travel, how imagination fills in the gaps, and how a legend is born when one curious mind sparks an idea and another passes it on. Fun Facts from This Episode The earliest known written description of a unicorn-like creature was recorded by the Greek historian Ctesias around 400 BCE Historians believe early unicorn stories may have been inspired by travelers describing a rhinoceros to people who…

Hop aboard the Culture Train with Kristen and Asher as they head to the world famous San Diego Zoo to meet wildlife specialist Marco Wendt. Twelve thousand animals, more than 650 species, and a whole lot of heart await on this stop in sunny San Diego, California. In this episode, families will discover: Why San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit conservation organization, not just a zoo, and how their work has helped reintroduce more than 44 endangered species back into the wild The incredible true story of Tatqiq, a polar bear rescued as an orphaned cub in Alaska, who now helps scientists understand how polar bears hear, move, and survive a warming Arctic How Karen the orangutan became the first great ape in history to undergo open heart surgery, and how she's thriving today with her orangutan and siamang family The journey of giant pandas from Endangered to Vulnerable, and just how much bamboo it takes to keep Yun Chuan and Xin Bao happy (hint: it's a lot~!) About our guest: Marco Wendt has worked…

In this special adventure, Kristen and Asher step off their magical Culture Train and onto a real-life train, the Pacific Surfliner, for one of the most beautiful train journeys in America. Together with special guest Alyssa Dowdalls from Pacific Surfliner, families travel along the stunning California coastline, discover the history of train travel, learn about the Chumash people who have called this region home for thousands of years, and explore the beautiful beach city of Santa Barbara. Along the way, kids will learn: • How trains changed the world and helped people travel farther than ever before • Why the Pacific Surfliner is one of the most scenic train routes in the United States • What it feels like to ride on a two-story passenger train • The rich history and living culture of the Chumash people • Why Santa Barbara's famous red tile roofs and white buildings tell an important story • Fun family activities to enjoy in Santa Barbara, including MOXI, Stearns Wharf, beaches, and more • Important travel…

How to Be a Good Neighbor on Buses, Trains & Airplanes | Public Transportation Etiquette for Kids! Have you ever wondered how to act on a bus, train, or airplane? In this episode, Kristen and Asher hop aboard real city transit and a jet plane with special guest Ms. Kelly, an etiquette coach and early childhood educator, to learn the art of being a thoughtful, respectful traveler in shared spaces. Together, they explore what etiquette really means, why it looks different around the world, and why the heart of it is always the same: see the people around you and make the shared space better because you were in it. In this episode, kids will learn: Why we let passengers off before getting on a bus or train What the "invisible bubble" rule is and why it matters on airplanes How the greeting culture in Nigeria teaches us something beautiful about respect Why offering your seat to an elder is a universal act of kindness Simple ways every child can be a good neighbor wherever they travel ABOUT OUR GUEST Ms. Kelly…

Hop aboard the magical Culture Train for a brand new adventure, then switch tracks and climb into a real-life 18-wheeler as we hit the highway with our new friend, Mr. Avie 🚚 In this episode, Culture Kids travel across the United States to discover the important role truck drivers play in keeping communities connected. From delivering food and supplies to traveling long distances across the country, we learn how these everyday heroes help make sure families everywhere have what they need. Along the way, we explore: What it’s like to drive a semi-truck (and why it has 18 wheels!) How truck drivers plan long journeys and stay safe on the road Why truck drivers are essential to communities across the world Why there are so many Sikh drivers in America How music—like Punjabi music—helps people stay connected to their culture What Sikhism is, and how it shapes Mr. Avie’s life and work How people from many different backgrounds and traditions help keep our world moving This episode is a beautiful reminder that…

All aboard the Culture Train!!!!🚂✨ In this fun and educational episode for kids, we explore the amazing world of bees, pollination, and beehives with our special guest Windy Weatherfoot, a nature adventurer who teaches kids about animals, ecosystems, and the tiny helpers that keep our planet growing. Perfect for curious kids ages 4–8, families, and classrooms, this episode blends storytelling with real science to help children understand why bees are important and how they help grow the food we eat. 🌼 What Kids Will Learn in This Episode What bees are and why they are important How pollination works (explained simply for kids) How bees help grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers What a beehive looks like and how bees live together The role of the queen bee and worker bees How to safely observe bees and nature 🌱 Explore More with Windy Weatherfoot Keep the adventure going with Windy Weatherfoot! 🎥 YouTube: Windy Weatherfoot📸 Instagram: @windyweatherfoot Windy creates fun, educational content for kids about…

What if you could step inside your brain and see how it works? In this special Culture Kids adventure, we travel to an imaginative world called Brain Stations, where each stop helps us understand how our brains notice sounds, feel emotions, and connect with others. Joined by speech-language pathologist and autism advocate Ms. Andi, we explore how different brains experience the world in different ways and why that matters for friendship, understanding, and everyday life. Along the way, we’ll: Visit Sound Station and discover how people hear and process sounds differently Learn what it feels like when the brain becomes overwhelmed Explore ways to feel calm and safe again Travel to Connection Station to understand feelings and how we express them Learn how to be a thoughtful and supportive friend to someone whose brain works differently This episode helps children build awareness, empathy, and real-life tools for connecting with others, while reminding them that every brain has its own strengths. About Our…

Hellooo Culture Kids! Grab your imaginary passports because today we’re heading into a cozy home to celebrate Nowruz, a springtime New Year that has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. In this episode, we visit our friends Hannah and her mom, Ms. Sadaf, to experience how their family prepares for this special holiday. Through storytelling, sound, and imagination, we step inside their home, smell delicious foods, see beautiful traditions, and learn what this celebration means to families around the world. What You’ll Discover What Nowruz is and why it marks the first day of spring How families celebrate across Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and beyond The meaning behind Khaneh-Tekani (spring cleaning) The beautiful Haft-Seen table and what each item represents How to say “Happy New Year” in Farsi: Sal-e No Mobarak Nowruz is more than a celebration; it’s a reminder that new beginnings, hope, and connection are shared across cultures in different and beautiful ways. Through this adventure, children are…

Hello Culture Kids explorers! Grab your imaginary passports and climb aboard the Culture Train because today we’re heading high into the sky for a magical hot air balloon adventure. In this episode, Mom, Asher, and Arden learn how hot air balloons work and discover the science that helps them float. Along the way, we travel back in time to France in 1783 when the first hot air balloon flight with people on board took place. Before humans went up, inventors tested their balloon with a sheep, a duck, and a rooster to make sure living creatures could breathe safely in the sky. Once we understand the science of warm air, buoyancy, and balloon envelopes, our journey begins. With the help of a friendly balloon pilot, we gently lift off and drift above some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Our first stop takes us over Cappadocia, Turkey, one of the most famous hot air balloon destinations in the world. From the sky we see ancient volcanic rock formations shaped like towering cones and sandcastles. Long…

All aboard the Culture Train! In this episode, we head back to New York City on a chilly winter morning to ride along on a real garbage truck and discover what happens to our trash after we throw it away. With our friend Amelia from the New York Hall of Science, we explore the hidden systems that keep a city running. We learn why sanitation workers start their day before sunrise, how trash is collected from busy sidewalks, and why NYC sanitation workers are known as the “strongest” for lifting heavy bags by hand. • Why different neighborhoods have different trash pickup schedules • What “coned” trash cans are and how kids can help when bins are full • The difference between household trash and recycling • Why batteries, electronics, and glass should never go in regular trash bags • What a transfer station is and where trash goes next Then we hop on the Culture Train to visit a recycling sorting center, where we watch conveyor belts, giant machines, and real workers separate paper, cans, glass, and food…

In this Culture Kids adventure, we travel to Bird Island, South Africa with our friend Lisa Faith from SANCCOB to meet African penguins in their natural habitat. Surrounded by ocean waves, rocky shores, and thousands of seabirds, we learn what makes this island a safe nesting home for penguins and other coastal birds. We discover: What baby penguins look like before they get their waterproof feathers Why penguins huddle together in family groups What moulting is and why penguins cannot swim for several weeks The challenges African penguins face, including not having enough fish, pollution, oil spills, and habitat loss How SANCCOB rescues, rehabilitates, and releases seabirds back into the wild We also learn ways kids can help, like using less plastic, sharing what they learn, and supporting organizations that protect wildlife. Thank you to Lisa Faith and the entire SANCCOB team for the incredible work they do to care for African penguins and coastal seabirds. 🎧 Be sure to listen to our previous SANCCOB…

In this episode, Culture Kids travels to New York City to explore City Works, a hands-on family exhibit at the New York Hall of Science. Together with Amelia- the Director of Exhibit Design and Development, Asher and Mom discover the incredible systems and the people behind them that keep cities running every single day. From buses and ferries to water pipes and wastewater treatment, this episode helps kids understand that cities are much more than buildings. They’re living systems powered by teamwork, science, and care. How transportation systems like buses, subways, and ferries help people move around a city Where clean drinking water comes from and what happens after we flush the toilet How sanitation and wastewater systems protect neighborhoods, rivers, and oceans Why scientists, engineers, and city workers are so important to everyday life How cities around the world may look different—but all work to care for their communities Kids will love pretending to drive a city bus through Times Square, learning…

In this immersive Culture Kids adventure, Kristen and Asher hop aboard the Culture Train and travel to the lush island of Kauai in Hawaii to visit Aunty Christy at the Kauai Animal Education Farm. Along the way, families learn where Kauai is located, why it is known as the “Garden Isle,” and how its rainforests, rivers, waterfalls, and dramatic coastline were shaped over millions of years. Once at the farm, listeners are welcomed into a peaceful, storybook-like setting where rescued animals roam freely and live in environments designed to help them feel safe, calm, and at home. Asher meets gentle tortoise Sherman, playful sheep Twinkletoes, and energetic rabbits doing joyful binkies, while Aunty Christy explains how animals come to the farm, how they are cared for, and how spending time with them can help people slow down, feel grounded, and connect more deeply with the world around them. This episode invites children and grown-ups alike to explore what it means to care for animals, learn their stories, and…

All aboard the Culture Train. This week, Kristen and Asher travel to sunny South Africa to meet some very special coastal residents, African penguins. On this adventure, Culture Kids learn that not all penguins live in icy places. African penguins live along warm, sandy beaches and rocky coastlines in southern Africa. We visit SANCCOB, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, where we meet Lisa Faith, an education supervisor and real life penguin protector. SANCCOB is like a hospital for seabirds, rescuing injured and orphaned African penguins, helping them heal, and preparing them to return safely to the ocean. Along the way, Culture Kids discover why African penguins are critically endangered and what that means for their future. We learn how SANCCOB began over 50 years ago when a woman named Althea turned her own bathroom into a penguin wash station after an oil spill, and how today the organization has helped more than 100,000 seabirds. Asher even gets to help feed real…

Today, the Culture Train rolls back in time to explore the incredible story of Dalmatians, the spotted dogs you might recognize right away but whose history might surprise you. With Mom, Asher, and special guest Arden, we travel to England in the late 1700s, where Dalmatians worked as carriage dogs, running alongside horses on busy cobblestone streets. We then journey forward to an early 1800s firehouse, where these hardworking dogs became trusted companions to firefighters and the horses that pulled fire wagons through growing cities. Along the way, we learn what makes Dalmatians unique, how their strong bodies and steady focus were shaped by life on the road, and why they became such an important symbol in firehouse history. We also explore how their role changed as technology evolved and what families should know about Dalmatians as pets today. This episode reminds us that animals, just like people and places, are shaped by where they come from and what they experience over time. Every journey leaves a…

This episode is lovingly dedicated to our forever family dog, Sammy. The pawprints you left on our hearts will stay with us always. As a beautiful white Jindo, brave, loyal, and full of curious energy , you always found your way back home to us. We love you Sammy. Today, the Culture Train travels to Jindo Island in South Korea, the enchanting home of Korea’s national treasure, the extraordinary Jindo dog. With Mom and Asher leading the way, we explore a peaceful island filled with pine trees, fishing villages, ocean breezes, and deep connections between people, land, and animals. Along the shore, we meet a friendly white Jindo dog named Miso and begin to discover what makes this breed so special. In this episode, we learn how Jindo dogs have lived alongside families on Jindo Island for hundreds of years, helping guard homes, move through forests and mountains, and build strong bonds with the people they love. We discover why Jindos are known for their loyalty, why they rarely bark unless there is a reason,…

Get ready for giggles! Culture Kids from around the world are sharing their silliest, funniest, laugh-out-loud jokes! 😂🌍 From animal jokes to classic kid humor, this special episode is pure joy: funny children's jokes, big belly laughs, and a heartfelt celebration of every curious, imaginative, adventure-loving kid riding the Culture Train. 🎉 What Kids Will Experience Hilarious jokes submitted by real Culture Kids from around the globe Animal jokes, silly jokes, and classic kid humor for the whole family A warm, joyful New Year celebration for children and families everywhere A love letter to every curious kid who makes the Culture Train worth riding 💛 A Message to Our Culture Kids There is nobody else in the world like you. Your curiosity, imagination, and sense of adventure make our world brighter every single day. As we step into a brand new year, we want you to know how much you matter, how much your jokes made us laugh, and how grateful we are that you are riding the Culture Train with us. To the…

Please note this episode was originally produced last year and has been thoughtfully recreated this year with updated storytelling and sound design. Grab your imaginary passports and hop aboard the Culture Train, because today we are traveling to the Sahara Desert in Morocco, located in North Africa, where golden sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. On this immersive adventure, Kristen and Asher meet Mohammed, a local Amazigh (Berber) tour guide who grew up in the Sahara Desert and speaks seven languages. With Mohammed as our guide, we learn what daily life is like in the desert and what it means to grow up in a nomadic community. What the word “Sahara” means in Arabic Where Morocco is located and why it’s known for colorful cities and vast deserts Who the Amazigh (Berber) people are and why they are the Indigenous people of North Africa The languages spoken in Morocco, including Arabic, Amazigh, French, and more Moroccan mint tea traditions, including why bubbles matter Riding dromedary camels and…

All aboard, Culture Kids families! In this adventure, Mom and Asher hop back onto the Culture Train Time Machine for an unforgettable visit to ancient Rome, where they reunite with Ms. Zoe, producer of the Getty Museum podcast If Objects Could Talk. Together, they tiptoe into a glowing triclinium, the Roman dining room, to watch a real dinner party happening over two thousand years ago. VISIT THE GETTY VILLA MUSEUM The Getty Villa Museum in Los Angeles is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. It is housed in a re-created Roman country home, complete with gardens, pools, mosaics, and over a thousand ancient artworks. Website: ⁠https://www.getty.edu/visit/villa/⁠ Follow the Getty: Instagram: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/gettymuseum⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/gettymuseum ⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@gettymuseum⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/gettymuseum⁠ CHECK OUT IF OBJECTS COULD TALK: https://www.getty.edu/podcasts/if-objects-could-talk/⁠ includes…

Here's a rewritten version optimized for SEO while keeping the warmth and voice intact: Grab your imaginary passports! Today, we're fluttering into a magical world of glowing flowers, shimmering wings, and butterflies from every corner of the globe. This enchanted episode was inspired by Eleanor, age 5. Thank you, Eleanor, for the most beautiful suggestion! 🌼 What Kids Will Experience In this immersive kids' podcast adventure, children and families explore an enchanted meadow where flowers shift colors, mango trees appear out of nowhere, and butterflies reveal their most astonishing secrets. Through rich storytelling, imaginative play, and playful discovery, kids uncover surprising butterfly facts and discover how butterflies appear in cultures around the world, from the Amazon rainforest to Mexican Día de Muertos traditions. 🦋 Butterfly Facts Kids Will Learn Why butterflies taste with their feet How butterflies see colors invisible to the human eye How some butterfly species survive freezing winters What a…

Bundle up, Culture Kids! Today, we travel to the sparkling heart of winter magic at Rockefeller Center in New York City. Together, we explore the world-famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree, sip hot chocolate, glide past the ice-skating rink, and discover the golden story of Prometheus, the statue who brings light and hope to millions. This audio-immersive episode is filled with twinkling lights, heartwarming stories from history, and the incredible tradition that began with one small tree during the Great Depression. Your Culture Train tickets are ready… all aboard! In this episode, kids will learn the rich history behind the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, starting from its humble beginnings in 1931 and the reason it brought so much hope during the Great Depression. They’ll discover fun facts about the Norway spruce and the glittering star that crowns it, along with the meaning behind Paul Manship’s Prometheus statue and why it shines so brightly at Rockefeller Center. Children will also explore what winter…

Pack your imaginary bags, Culture Kids! In this episode, Kristen, Asher, and our special guest Ms. Zoe, producer of Getty's podcast If Objects Could Talk, take you on a magical adventure to the Getty Villa Museum in Los Angeles. Together, we stroll through sunlit gardens and explore an ancient Roman-style villa. Then, with a whirl of our time machine, we journey back two thousand years to a grand dining room to see how Romans prepared for a spectacular dinner party. Kids will discover how ancient Romans reclined on couches while eating, what dishes and cups looked like in the ancient world, why people often ate with their hands, and how paintings inspired by Egypt became popular decorations inside Roman homes. This episode also includes a special shout-out to Henry for his wonderful five-star review and a reminder to send in your funniest joke for our end-of-year Culture Kids Joke Fest! VISIT THE GETTY VILLA MUSEUM The Getty Villa Museum in Los Angeles is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece,…

All aboard, Culture Kids! In this week’s magical adventure, Mom and Asher hop on the Culture Train and travel to Beijing, China, a city filled with history, color, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. Together with special guest Ms. Dan Song, author of the My City Adventures series, they step through the mighty red gates of the Forbidden City, where emperors once ruled and legends were born. You’ll hear the echoes of ancient footsteps, learn what the color red means in Chinese culture, and even discover why the Forbidden City was once “forbidden.” From dragons and phoenixes to royal bedrooms and bronze cranes, this episode brings China’s past to life in a way kids can see, hear, and imagine. And of course, no Culture Kids adventure would be complete without food! 🍽️ Join us as we try Peking duck, one of Beijing’s most famous dishes, once enjoyed by emperors and still beloved today. Families will also learn simple Mandarin phrases, explore what makes each region of China unique, and celebrate the…

Helloo Culture Kids! Grab your imaginary passports and bags because today, Mom (Kristen) and Asher hop on our magical train and travel to the beautiful island of the Dominican Republic. 🇩🇴 We meet our friend Ms. D, a Dominican social-media chef, by a riverside feast to cook the national dish: La Bandera Dominicana (the Dominican flag on a plate!). Together we explore the island’s music, languages, food, community spirit, and why this dish means so much. We hope you’re ready for delicious smells, sizzling pans, river fun, and lots of learning. And don’t forget Asher’s reminder: after all that cooking, we might just dip into the river! In this episode, you’ll learn where the Dominican Republic is and what makes it such a musical, vibrant, and culturally rich country. You’ll discover what La Bandera Dominicana is and how its colors, white rice, red beans, stewed chicken, and a green salad, represent the nation’s flag. You’ll also hear how to cook chicken in a caldero, a traditional Dominican pot used over a…

Join us on a brand-new Culture Kids adventure as we celebrate Día de Muertos with Mexican American author Mariana Ríos Ramírez, author of Abuelita’s Gift. Together, we journey through an endless field of glowing marigold flowers, learning how families in Mexico honor and remember loved ones with ofrendas, papel picado, and pan de muerto. Through Mariana’s heartfelt stories, kids discover how this beautiful tradition shows that love never disappears; it lives on in our memories, laughter, and shared stories. Learn more about Ms. Mariana http://marianariosramirez.com, where you’ll find free activities and links to her books, Abuelita’s Gift and Santiago’s Dinosaurios, available everywhere books are sold. Instagram: @marianariosr. Follow Mariana: https://linktr.ee/MarianaRiosR 📣 Please join our journey and help spread the word! Visit culturekidsproductions.org and click on SUPPORT, to learn how you can support our mission, subscribe to episode updates, and help us reach more families. Follow us on Instagram…

[Please note: This episode was not produced by the Culture Kids Productions team. However, we’re thrilled to have been invited to collaborate and be featured in this special project created by our friends at Kids Listen. While Culture Kids contributed a short segment, all creative direction and production were led by the Big Emotions team.]. Our weekly release will resume on Thursday at 9pm PT! ---------------------- We’re excited to share a special bonus episode with you, “Big Emotions: Part 2, Independence!” Welcome back to Big Emotions! In Part 1, we explored Belonging, finding friends and places that celebrate you for exactly who you are. In Part 2, we dive deeper into Independence, learning to trust yourself, make your own choices, and follow your unique path. You’ll hear inspiring stories of kids (and a few magical creatures!) who take brave steps, try new things, and discover just how strong they can be. 🎧 Featuring: Dorktales Storytime • Culture Kids • Stoopkid Stories 🎙️ Hosts: Abbe Opher & Kelly…

Join Mom, Asher, and their special guest, Ms. Catherina from Columbus Guatemala Travel, a family-run company that helps families explore Central America through adventure and culture. Together, they visit a vibrant hillside filled with color, music, and love, the home of Guatemala’s breathtaking Giant Kite Festival! 🎏 Each year on November 1st, families across Guatemala gather to remember their loved ones by building enormous, hand-painted kites that soar into the sky, carrying messages of love and remembrance. What might seem like a spooky day in some cultures is, in Guatemala, a joyful celebration of family, ancestors, and community, filled with laughter, bright colors, and connections that span generations. In this episode, you’ll learn how Guatemalan families celebrate the Giant Kite Festival and what the kites represent; why cemeteries in Guatemala are full of color, joy, and community instead of fear or sadness; and how the deep roots of Mayan traditions continue to shape life in Guatemala today.…

All aboard the Culture Train for a spooky adventure full of surprises! 👻 Join Kristen, Asher, and Arden as they wander through a magical forest filled with animals that might seem scary at first, but carry deep cultural meaning in traditions around the world. Meet owls celebrated for their wisdom in Greece and Japan. Discover why black cats are symbols of good luck and love in cultures across the globe. Along the way, learn how folktales, beliefs, and cultural traditions shape the way we see the natural world around us. By the end of this adventure, kids discover that what feels spooky at first can turn out to be something truly beautiful, when we take time to learn, listen, and look a little closer. 🌍✨ 🎙️ About This Episode This kids' podcast episode explores spooky animals in world cultures, perfect for Halloween listening, cultural education, and curious children ages 4 to 8. Through immersive audio storytelling, children and families uncover surprising facts about owls, black cats, and other…

All aboard the Culture Train! This time we’re heading to the sunny seaside town of Nafpaktos, Greece! Join Asher and Kristen as they visit their friend Mr. Dino, a passionate chef and storyteller, in his cozy family kitchen overlooking the sparkling Gulf of Corinth. Together, they’ll explore what makes Greek food so special, from flaky, cheesy tyropita to creamy, salty feta, and discover how every bite tells a story of family, history, and love. We’ll stroll through cobblestone streets, learn about the ancient Venetian castle watching over the harbor, and hear how language, food, and family are deeply woven into Greek life. Plus, Asher gets brave enough to try feta for the first time (and spoiler: he actually likes it!). 🍽 Featured Guest: 👨‍🍳 Mr. Dino, creator of Loud Mouth Kitchen on YouTube, where he shares approachable recipes from his Greek heritage and beyond, with lots of personality and heart. Make a tyropita HERE with Mr. Dino!!! Grown ups, please subscribe and check out his YT channel for meal…

All aboard the Culture Train..we're heading to Seoul, South Korea! 🇰🇷✨ Join Kristen and Asher as they explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, visit a traditional hanbok shop, and uncover the history behind the iconic gat, the tall black hat worn by Korean nobles during the Joseon Dynasty. Sparked by Asher's curiosity about K-Pop Demon Hunters, this episode weaves K-pop culture, Korean royal history, and 600 years of living tradition into one unforgettable family adventure. 👘 What Kids Will Learn What Gyeongbokgung Palace is and why it matters in Korean history What Korean kings and queens wore during the Joseon Dynasty What a hanbok is, what its colors mean, and how it is worn today What a gat is, how it was made, and what it symbolized in Korean culture How K-Pop Demon Hunters connects modern K-pop to ancient Korean traditions How to visit Gyeongbokgung and rent a hanbok like royalty Why preserving cultural traditions through storytelling matters for kids everywhere 🏯 About Gyeongbokgung Palace Built in 1395,…

Grab your imaginary passports, Culture Kids! 🌍 Today, we’re heading back to the peaceful village of Ushi in Armenia for a splashy, bubbly adventure. Children’s book author Ms. Astrid welcomes us into her home to join her family’s rug washing day, a beloved tradition passed down for generations. Along the way, we’ll meet Arden (Asher’s sister!) as she hops on the Culture Train, discover heirloom rugs and dragon carpets, and join Astrid’s children, Aren and Haram, for the most epic rug-cleaning dance party ever. Spoiler: there’s even a rainbow! 🌈 About Astrid Kamalyan: This episode is inspired by Babo: A Tale of Armenian Rug Washing Day, written by Astrid Kamalyan and illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan. Learn more about the book and Astrid’s work: astridkamalyan.com Order your copy here: Bookshop.org (support your local independent bookstore!) Special Thank You To: This episode features music from Miqayel Voskanyan, an award-winning Armenian tar player and composer known for blending ancient folk traditions with…

In this episode, Kristen and Asher hop aboard the Culture Train to Hong Kong to explore its lively streets, sounds, and flavors. They meet Ms. Dan Song, teacher, author, and taichi coach and learn about her Our City Adventure series, including why Hong Kong is one of her featured cities. Together, they taste Hong Kong style egg tarts with their golden flaky crusts and silky custard filling, learn the history of how these treats came to be, and talk about the unique mix of languages and traditions that make Hong Kong so special. You’ll hear Asher’s first big bite reaction, Ms. Dan’s stories about her students and writing, and fun facts about Hong Kong’s mix of city energy, countryside escapes, and delicious food culture. You’ll even get a peek at what makes dim sum so much more than just a meal...it’s a way to gather with friends and family. This episode shows how even a small pastry can carry big stories and bring people together. About Our City Adventure Series : The Our City Adventure series is published…

In this episode, we hop aboard the Culture Train and travel to the breathtaking country of Armenia. Together, we visit the peaceful little village of Ushi with children’s book author Astrid Kamalyan, explore the ancient Saint Sarkis Monastery, and discover Armenia’s towering mountains, sacred waters, and centuries-old traditions. Along the way, we learn about Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest point, Mount Ara, the “sleeping giant” with its healing spring water, and Mount Ararat, the mountain believed to be the landing place of Noah’s Ark. We walk up to Saint Sarkis Chapel, take in the thick stone walls that have stood for over a thousand years, and marvel at the khachkars—beautifully carved Armenian cross-stones that seem to whisper the stories of the past. Astrid also shares what it’s like to raise her children surrounded by this deep history and natural beauty, and reminds us how Armenian culture takes whatever it has and makes it beautiful. 📚 Special Guest: Astrid Kamalyan We are so excited to have Astrid…

All aboard the Culture Train! This week we're stopping in Richmond, Virginia to visit San-J International, where soy sauce has been brewed the traditional Japanese way for over 220 years! 🍶🌱 Join Kristen and Asher and their guest Takashi Sato as they step inside one of America's most remarkable Japanese food production facilities, discover the ancient art of fermentation, and learn why soy sauce and tamari have been treasured across Japanese culture for centuries. 🍣 What Kids Will Experience Learning the difference between soy sauce and tamari and why it matters Discovering how samurai warriors once used soy sauce in ancient Japan Stepping inside giant fermentation tanks as tall as buildings Watching how traditional Japanese brewing methods have been preserved for over 220 years Exploring how one small bottle of tamari connects Richmond, Virginia to centuries of Japanese food culture 🌱 What Kids Will Learn What fermentation is and how it transforms soybeans into soy sauce What tamari is and how it differs…

Hop aboard the Culture Train for a zesty, globe-trotting citrus adventure! 🍋🌏 Join Kristen and Asher as they take young explorers on an immersive journey to discover two of the world's most extraordinary citrus fruits: Japan's fragrant yuzu and the Philippines' bright and tangy calamansi. Packed with whimsy, wonder, and real cultural learning, this kids' podcast episode turns everyday fruit into a full-on world cultures adventure. 🍊 What Kids Will Experience This episode opens with lively, sensory-rich storytelling that teaches children what makes a fruit citrus: thick rinds, juicy segments, that unmistakable puckering tang, and the bright, nose-tingling scent that makes citrus fruits instantly recognizable anywhere in the world. Then the Culture Train departs for two unforgettable destinations: 🇯🇵 Japan: The World of Yuzu Children discover yuzu, a tangerine-sized, wrinkly Japanese citrus fruit prized more for its intensely fragrant peel than its tart juice. Kids learn how yuzu flavors ponzu sauces, Japanese…

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…

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…

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…

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. 👩‍🍳 Meet Ms Barbara A passionate Ligurian cook and educator who learned pesto-making from her…

All aboard the Culture Train! We're heading to Lagos, Nigeria! 🇳🇬🌿 Join Kristen and Asher and their local guide Mr. Taofeek, Co-Founder of Visit Nigeria Now, as they tackle Africa's longest canopy walkway at the Lekki Conservation Centre, spot mona monkeys and crocodiles in the wild, learn to say "Ekabo!" in Yoruba, and discover why Nigeria is one of the most vibrant, culturally rich destinations on Earth. 🌿 What Kids Will Experience Wobbling across Africa's longest canopy walkway high above Lagos treetops Spotting mona monkeys with cheeky cheek pouches and crocodiles below Sweeping views of Lagos skyline and the Nigerian shoreline Learning "Ekabo," meaning Welcome in Yoruba, one of Nigeria's most spoken languages Discovering how English unites Nigeria's 500+ ethnic groups Exploring Lagos arts and crafts markets filled with coral and plastic bead treasures Hearing the incredible traditional Oja flute, a Nigerian cultural treasure 🎵 Discover the Traditional Oja Flute One of Nigeria's most extraordinary…

Hop aboard the Culture Train and travel to one of Italy's most magical destinations! 🇮🇹🌊 Join Kristen and Asher as they explore Cinque Terre, the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site perched along the cliffs of the Ligurian coast in northern Italy. From sparkling turquoise seas and rainbow-colored clifftop homes to fresh basil pesto, golden olive oil, and creamy Italian gelato, this kids' podcast episode is bursting with sensory surprises, cultural discoveries, and joyful learning for children and families everywhere. 🏡 What Is Cinque Terre? Cinque Terre, which means "Five Lands" in Italian, is one of Italy's most beloved and protected destinations. Five colorful fishing villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, cling dramatically to the rocky Ligurian coastline, connected by scenic hiking trails, ferries, and a historic railway line. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected as a national park, Cinque Terre is a living example of how communities and…

🦄❄️ Special Guest: Senna (age 13!) Hop aboard the Culture Train and grab your warmest winter gear, because we’re heading to the icy Arctic to meet one of the most magical creatures in the ocean—the narwhal! Sometimes called the unicorn of the sea, narwhals are full of surprises… including a super long tusk that’s actually a tooth! 🦷🌀 Join Asher, Kristen, and our amazing guest Senna as we: Play a game of Narwhal True or False 🐋❓ Explore the chilly home of narwhals—the Arctic Circle ❄️🌍 Dive beneath the ice to hear real narwhal sounds 🫧🎶 Spot polar bears and learn about midnight sun & polar night 🌞🌌 Learn about the deep connection between narwhals and Inuit communities 💛 💡 You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you might even feel like a narwhal yourself by the end of this underwater adventure. 🌟 Plus, a special shoutout to 7-year-old listener Marlena for her awesome 5-star review and ancient Egypt request—we see you, Culture Kid! 🎒 Want to support our mission? Culture Kids is a volunteer-run nonprofit on a big…

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. 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…