Brave & Bright Stories

Hello brave hearts and bright minds,As the autumn light deepens and the air turns crisp, we continue tending our Seeds of Faith: trusting in goodness, even when the world feels uncertain. Because faith isn’t only about what we believe; it’s also about how we see, how we listen, and how we choose to meet fear - with presence, compassion, and courage.This week’s story, Brother Wolf, is one of my very favorite episodes thus far. It is a tale that reminds us that even the fiercest hearts can be softened by love and understanding. We travel to the little Italian town of Gubbio, where fear has taken root and a great wolf haunts the woods. But through one man’s quiet courage and unwavering faith, something miraculous happens: peace is restored, and what was once wild and feared becomes trusted and beloved.Let’s journey there together…to listen, to wonder, and to remember that light can grow even in the darkest places.This is the story of Brother Wolf.One piece at the heart of Brother Wolf is about faith that listens. It can instruct us on how to meet fear: not with force, but with curiosity and compassion. When Saint Francis walks calmly into the forest, he shows us that courage doesn’t always roar and carry a sword. Sometimes, it looks like gentleness, trust, and a willingness to understand what lies beneath another’s pain.Children and adults alike often meet conflict with either defensiveness or avoidance. But when we slow down and seek the story behind the behavior - whether it’s hunger, tiredness, loneliness, or hurt - we open a doorway to connection. Francis models this for us beautifully: he does not judge the wolf; he listens, and in doing so, makes peace possible.This story can become a touchstone for your family as an invitation to pause and listen before reacting.You might ask your child:💭 “What helped Francis see the wolf differently?”💭 “What changed in the villagers when they chose compassion instead of anger?”💭 “Have you ever been misunderstood - and how did it feel when someone finally listened?”And when conflict arises at home, practice “hearing all sides.” Take a breath. Listen to the stories underneath the emotions. Ask, “What do you think is really going on?” And you may find, like Francis, that peace often begins with understanding.Over time, Brother Wolf can remind us all that faith isn’t blind. It is the quiet courage to trust that goodness can grow where fear once lived.That’s our story for today, my friends, but the magic doesn’t stop here!Carry this tale of Saint Francis and Brother Wolf with you through the week. Let it spark moments of compassion in your home: when a sibling feels left out, when tempers flare, or when someone’s roar is really just a call for comfort.If Brave & Bright Stories has become a light in your family rhythm, I invite you to help it grow. A few simple way you can help?⭐️ Become a paid subscriber to support this work and keep these stories flowing into homes and hearts.⭐ Leave a kind review or rating on your favorite podcast app.⭐️ Or simply share this story with a family you love.Every act of support, big and small, is a seed of faith planted in our storytelling garden.Until next time,stay brave,stay bright,and keep growing together…one story at a time. With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Hello, brave hearts and bright minds!I come to you with boots broken in by the steady labors of fall, a chill blowing through my window from the top of the mountain, and a physical and metaphorical basket of gathered seeds—tiny reminders of the faith we’re exploring this month. For every seed contains a story in itself: of trust, of patience, of unseen growth waiting for just the right moment to break open and bloom.This month, we step into one of my very favorite themes yet: Seeds of Faith.As the days grow shorter in the northern hemisphere and this part of the earth tucks herself in for rest, we’re invited to remember that life moves in rhythms and cycles: that even when the world grows quiet and still, something sacred is stirring beneath the surface.Faith is like that.It’s what helps us keep tending and trusting when the outcome is still hidden.It’s the gentle knowing that the same hand that scatters the seed also brings the rain, the sun, and the season for growth.It’s our capacity to remember that our lives contain these same cycles and seasons that we see and feel so elegantly and potently expressed through the natural world. Today’s story is a beautiful glimpse into this mystery. It begins with a very small seed, no bigger than a breath, carried by the wind into a wide, wide world. She faces fear and uncertainty, winter and cold… but through patience, courage, and trust, she discovers where she belongs and what she is meant to become.This is the story of The Dandelion Seed.For our grown ups: The life cycle of this little Dandelion Seed opens the door to the quiet wisdom of the seasons. There are times to bloom, and times to let go. Times to be carried by the wind, and times to rest in stillness. Times to push through the dark soil, and times to stand in the light.When we honor these natural rhythms in our own lives—and in our children’s lives—we remind them (and ourselves) that every season has its place. Waiting is not wasted. Darkness is not the end. Faith is what helps us trust that growth is happening, even when we can’t yet see it.This week, notice the cycles unfolding all around you: the trees changing, the weather shifting, the rhythm of your days. Ask your children: What season am I in right now? What season are you in? And celebrate them all as worthy, each one part of the great turning of life.What are the ways you can consciously weave rhythms of faith into your family life?Perhaps it’s watching the sunrise or sunset together, noticing how light returns in its own time.Perhaps it’s lighting a candle before bed and whispering prayers of gratitude or hope.Or maybe it’s creating a simple daily ritual, like one of our family favorites: Rose, Thorn, and Bud. Around the dinner table, each person shares: their rose—a favorite moment from the day, their thorn—something that was hard or painful, and their bud—something they’re looking forward to or hoping will grow.Faith, like a seed, carries us through the cycles of life—from the unseen soil of winter to the bright bloom of spring. It roots us in something deeper than circumstance, offering steady ground for our own hearts, our children, and our families.The courage and quiet patience of this little seed remind us:🌾 Faith can be small.🌾 Faith can be steady.🌾 And faith can carry us through the darkest seasons toward light, growth, and life.That’s our story for today, my friends…. but as always, the magic does not end here.Carry this tale with you through the week, tending the seeds of faith in your own heart and home. Turn toward the wisdom of nature: the slow, steady cycles of planting, waiting, growing, and blooming before we turn back to seed and back to the dark steady patience of the soil.If Brave & Bright Stories has become a light in your family rhythm, we invite you to plant a seed of support by becoming a paid subscriber! Every pledge helps this work take root and blossom, allowing these stories to keep flowing into homes and hearts like yours.And if you haven’t yet, please take a moment to rate and review the show on your favorite podcast app and share it with your friends! Each act of support, small as it may seem, helps our garden of stories grow stronger and reach farther.Let’s keep planting these seeds together…to stay brave,to stay bright,and to keep growing...one story at a time. 🌱With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Hello, brave hearts and bright minds!I’m writing to you with a bit of soil still beneath my fingernails, fresh from harvesting and tending on the little farm my boys and I call home. These autumn days, they spend more time outdoors than in with mud on their knees, sticks in hand, laughter in the wind… and it all feels right on brand for this week’s story.Each month, we aim to shine our lantern-light on a special virtue—one powerful quality that helps us live with heart, courage, and kindness.In this series of stories, we’re exploring Helping Hands: how we show up for one another through responsibility, contribution, and cooperation. Sometimes, the biggest challenges can only be overcome when we come together.Today’s story is a classic folktale with a big, round surprise at its heart. It begins with a tiny seed tucked into the soil, grows into something truly enormous, and gathers an old man, an old woman, and a most curious crew of helpers to remind us that no hand is too small, nor too strange, to make a mighty difference when we work together.This is the story of The Gigantic Turnip.And before I go, a little seed to plant: next month’s theme, Seeds of Faith, is my favorite yet, and features three luminous stories of trust, hope, and what can grow unseen in the quiet soil of the heart. I am SO excited to share them with you!! 🌱✨Parents, The Gigantic Turnip offers a playful yet profound reminder of cooperation and interdependence. It shows our children that every contribution matters — even the smallest one — and that real accomplishment often grows from shared effort.As parents, it can sometimes feel easier to do things for our children rather than with them. But when we rush in to tie every shoe, clean every spill, or solve every problem, we unintentionally rob them of the deep satisfaction that comes from effort, contribution, and belonging. Children learn by doing. They build confidence and resilience not from being served, but from taking part in the real work of family life.When we invite them to join us: to stir the soup, carry the groceries, feed the pet, or help hang the laundry… we’re not just getting chores done. We’re teaching them what it means to participate in something larger than themselves. These small acts of service cultivate a sense of purpose, capability, and connection that no amount of praise or reward can replace.You might ask your child:💭 “What would have happened if the mouse hadn’t come along at the end?”💭 “Which helper did you like best — and why?”💭 “How do you feel when someone notices the small ways you help?”This week, look for places where your child can take their rightful place in the family and contribute their hands meaningfully — picking up toys, setting the table, cutting vegetables for dinner, taking out the trash, feeding the chickens, watering the garden. When children see that their work matters, they begin to understand that they matter.Over time, The Gigantic Turnip can become a touchstone story in your home; a reminder that families grow stronger, hearts grow steadier, and burdens grow lighter when we pull together, side by side.And, if your child came up with an answer to the question of how many creatures were working together by the very end, be sure to send it our way! That’s our story for today… but the magic does not end here. Carry this tale of helping hands with you, and let it spark meaningful moments in your home. Maybe your child will notice the chance to pitch in when the laundry basket feels heavy, or maybe they’ll be your little mouse, a small helper that makes a big difference.If your child had something to say about today’s story or about the Brave & Bright Stories podcast, we would love to hear it. You can send us a voice message, and we are so honored and grateful to feature them like little Eamonn on today’s episode! If our work here at Brave & Bright Stories lights up your heart, I invite you to take one more small but mighty step: become a paid subscriber. As a solo mama with two little ones, this podcast is a true labor of love, and your pledge helps us to keep our garden of Brave and Bright stories well tended.And even if you’re not yet able to subscribe, make sure to rate us on your favorite podcast app, leave us a kind review, or share this story with a family who would love it. These are all marvelous ways to water our seeds and keep us growing mightily.Until next time… Stay brave, stay bright, and keep growing together — One story at a time.With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Each month, we shine our lantern-light on a special virtue—one powerful quality that helps us live with heart, courage, and kindness.This month, we’re exploring Helping Hands… but not only in the ways we set the table or share our toys. Helping hands also mean taking responsibility, owning our mistakes, and making things right.Today’s story is one of our personal family favorites. It’s about three adventurous young bears, a broken treasure, and the stormy seas they must face before they can truly make things right. Their journey reminds us that true helping hands aren’t found in hiding or blaming, but in the courage to take responsibility, offer apology, and begin again.This is the story of Three Bears in a Boat.Parents, Three Bears in a Boat is a rich story for opening conversations about responsibility, contribution, repair, and consequences. Children often wrestle with the urge to hide mistakes or shift blame—just as Dash, Charlie, and Theo did.You might ask your child:* “What happened when they argued and blamed one another?”* “How did things change when they each admitted their part?”This week, try a family practice of naming responsibility. When something goes wrong—a spill, a sharp word, a forgotten chore—pause and ask: “What part did each of us play, and what can we do to make it right?” Celebrate not only when a problem is fixed, but when responsibility is taken. And model it yourself. Parenting is full of mistakes, but one of the most powerful gifts we can give our children is the courage to admit ours, take ownership, and make amends.Here’s something that brings me peace: healthy attachment doesn’t require perfection. Research shows we only need to be truly “in sync” about 30% of the time. Another 30% is spent in disconnection—missing the mark. And the final 30% is spent in repair—coming back together and making things right. That’s our real aim: not perfection, but repair. (And for those quick with math, I like to say the last 10% belongs to the holy presence that holds it all together ;)And finally, consequences. Our actions carry weight, and children learn deeply from natural consequences. I love the story’s last line: “and they didn’t get any dessert.” What natural consequences can you allow in your home—ones that guide your child (and you) to keep refining how you show up for each other?That’s the heart of family life: not only helping hands, but the courage to own our part in keeping love strong.So that’s our story for today—but the magic does not end here. Let this tale carry you into your week, and may you have the grace, patience, and love to own your part when you mess up, and to keep growing together through the inevitable mistakes that shape us.Brave & Bright Stories is a true labor of love, woven between muddy hands, bedtime snuggles, and the daily hum of life as a solo mama of two little ones. If these stories light up your home, I’d be so grateful if you’d consider lending your own “helping hands”: become a paid subscriber here on Substack, share these stories with a friend, or leave a kind review on your favorite podcast app. Each step helps keep our little boat afloat and allows this storytelling village to grow.I’m so happy you’re here with us.Until next time,Stay brave, stay bright, and keep growing together… one story at a time.With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Each month, we shine our lantern-light on a special virtue — one powerful quality that helps us live with heart, courage, and kindness.This time, we’re stepping into Helping Hands: a theme close to my heart as a solo mama of two little ones. Parenthood teaches, again and again, that none of us are meant to do everything alone. We need one another. And while most of the “helping hands” in my house are more often covered in mud from the garden or sticky with honey, they remind me daily that when we share the load, the work grows lighter, the joy grows bigger, and even the smallest hands (messy or not) can make the greatest difference.With a full and grateful heart, I’m leaning into this month’s stories right alongside you. Over the coming weeks, you’ll hear three tales that capture the beauty, humor, and sometimes the challenge of working together: a clever little hen and her golden seeds, three bears who set sail, and a turnip that takes more than a few strong pulls to lift from the ground.For now, we begin with a simple story, golden as the wheat in its fields: The Little Red Hen.Parents, The Little Red Hen offers a simple but powerful lesson in fairness, effort, and contribution. Children notice very clearly who helps and who doesn’t—and this story can be a wonderful springboard for conversations about shared responsibility.You might ask your child:* “What would have happened if the Hen had been given helping hands?”* “What would have happened if she gave the bread to her friends anyway?”* “How do you feel when you help—and how do you feel when others help you?”This week, you might create a small “helping hands challenge” in your home. Invite your child to notice at least one moment a day when they can offer their hands—big or small—to lighten the load for someone else. Celebrate these moments by naming them aloud: “That was a helping hand.”Over time, this story can become a touchstone for family life—reminding us all that true joy comes not only from sharing the feast, but from sharing the work that makes it possible.That’s our story for today… but the magic doesn’t stop here! Carry this tale of helping hands with you, and let it spark meaningful moments in your home. Maybe your child will notice a chance to pitch in at dinnertime, or maybe they’ll remind you of the Little Red Hen when someone chooses not to help!Brave & Bright Stories is a true labor of love—woven between muddy hands, bedtime snuggles, and the daily hum of life as a solo mama of two little ones. If these stories light up your heart and home, I’d be so grateful if you’d consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep Brave & Bright Stories flowing to families everywhere. And, it reminds me that, just like the Little Red Hen, I don’t have to carry the work alone 😉 You can support us by clicking the button below or by visiting our website: www.bravebrightstories.com.Until next time…stay brave,stay bright,and keep growing together, one story at a time.With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Even as September unfolds, we’re closing out our theme of Courage with one final story. And while life as a solo mama of two little ones means sometimes our stories don’t follow the calendar exactly, I’m reminded that courage is not just about grand adventures—it’s also about continuing, showing up, and sharing what matters, even when the timing is not perfect.So today, we close out our exploration of Courage with a fresh take on a classic tale. This story is about a little boy named Jack with a magical beanstalk, and an adventure that stretches all the way into the clouds. Jack climbs high, faces danger, and discovers treasures—but he also learns that courage is not only about daring to climb, it’s about listening to the quiet voice inside that tells us when enough is enough.This is the story of Jack and the Beanstalk.Jack’s adventure gives us a beautiful way to explore both courage and discernment. Bravery isn’t only about taking risks or reaching for the sky—it’s also about knowing limits, making wise choices, and stopping before curiosity becomes recklessness.This story is a chance to wonder together with your children:* When have you been brave like Jack?* How did you know when to stop, or when enough was enough?* What treasures do you already have that bring joy?As parents, we often cheer the climb—first steps, first words, first big leaps. But sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is helping our children celebrate restraint, to pause before they overreach. They are watching us, too: the ways we say no to what glitters but doesn’t serve us, the moments we pause before acting, the times we model “enough.” These are treasures just as real as golden hens and singing harps.These stories meet us not only in our homes but also in the wider world. We are living through times that ask much of our courage—courage to discern truth from noise, to care for one another with steadiness, and to hold to what matters most even when the world feels uncertain. Stories like Jack’s remind us that true bravery is not just about bold leaps upward, but also about knowing when to pause, when to listen, and when to tend to the treasures already in our keeping.Carry Jack’s lesson with you this week:✨ Be brave enough to climb when hope calls you upward.✨ Be wise enough to pause when you’ve found what you need.✨ Remember—sometimes the greatest courage is knowing when to stop.And speaking of courage… I have a small sparkling seed that I am tending: if you and your family are enjoying these stories and the world we’re creating at Brave & Bright Stories, would you consider becoming a paid subscriber? Even a small contribution helps us spread our roots and climb into the sky, ensuring we can continue to share stories full of imagination, virtue, and heart.You can support us by clicking the button below or by visiting our website: www.bravebrightstories.com.Wherever you are on your journey of life — I’m so glad you’re here.Let’s keep building our courage…to stay brave, stay bright, and keep growing together,one story at a time.With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring the virtue of Courage. Courage can look like facing something frightening, but it can also look like listening to the quiet, steady voice inside that says, try, keep going, take the next step.This story was first shared as one of our three intro stories in our launch, where we previewed one story from each themed month to come. If you missed it then, it’s a gem! It’s about a little girl with a big dream—and the courageous journey she takes to reach it.It’s a story of wonder, determination, and climbing into the sky.This is the story of The Stars in the Sky.Stories like The Stars in the Sky remind us that courage in childhood is not always about slaying dragons or speaking boldly—it is often about the quiet, steady persistence of the heart. Our little ones, like the girl in this story, may set their sights on something that feels far away: tying their shoes, learning a new word, making a friend, or facing a challenge that stretches them just beyond comfort.In those moments, it is tempting to step in and “shorten the climb” for them. But often, the most valuable gift we can offer is to stand nearby, steady and encouraging, while they take each step themselves.This story is a beautiful way to invite your child into reflection:* Wonder together: Ask, “What star would you like to reach for?” or “Which helper in the story would you want by your side?”* Model courage: Share a story from your own life when you wanted something that felt just out of reach, and how you kept going. Children love to know that even grown-ups climb rainbows of their own.* And, work this muscle in your own heart. Where are you currently lacking the courage in your life to listen to your heart and just take the one next step? And where are the places that you can exercise this capacity in your day to day life, and let your children witness you in it? Remember: courage doesn’t always look grand. Sometimes it is simply the sparkle in a child’s eye as they take one more step toward what they long for. Like the little girl in the story, our children are learning that even if they don’t “catch the star,” the reaching itself fills their hearts with light.We continue to circle around some themes here: celebration and recognition of the courage and kindness and honesty in our children, and the crucial invitation to practice these things yourself! Because our children learn far more from what we do, than what we say.Parenthood is an exquisite opportunity and invitation to refine our practice. So take heart my friends, lean in, and let’s continue to have the courage to grow, together.Since today’s story was about reaching for the stars, here’s one small wish I’d like to send out into the sky. Creating Brave & Bright Stories has been like tending a little lantern in the dark—something I pour time, care, and love into as a solo mama with two small boys. If these stories have been a light for your family, would you consider helping us keep the lantern glowing by becoming a paid subscriber? Even the smallest contribution helps us grow this work and ensures we can keep bringing more stories to you. Upgrade your subscription by clicking here:And even if you’re not yet able to subscribe, be sure to tap follow on your podcast app, leave a kind review, and share with a friend. I’m so so thankful that you’re here with us, shining together.Until next time… Stay brave. Stay bright. And keep growing together—one story at a time. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring the virtue of Courage—today’s story is a classic, beloved, and likely familiar one that invites us to listen anew in order to search for the doorways that have the potential to open up to us through every story, and ultimately, in every moment of our lives.This story is about a little engine who doesn’t look as big or as strong as the others. No one expects her to do the hard thing. But when no one else will step up to help, she listens to the quiet strength inside her. She tries. She keeps going. And she discovers something powerful…This is the story of The Little Engine That Could.So, my brave and bright friends… What stood out to you in today’s story?One thing I noticed was how the little blue engine wasn’t completely sure she could do it—but she kept going anyway. She used the power of her thoughts and her words to help herself believe: "I think I can. I think I can." That’s pretty amazing, isn’t it?And I loved the image of the silly little clown, waving his flag and doing everything he could to help the broken-down train. He didn’t give up either!Can you picture the train trying to make it up the steep, tall mountain? Or all the little dolls and toys leaning out of the train windows? What parts of the story lit up your imagination?And… Have you ever tried something that felt really hard? Maybe it was tying your shoes… or riding a bike… or walking into a new school for the very first time?Can you try something with me right now? Go ahead and place your hands on your heart and whisper to yourself, “I think I can”? Maybe there’s something you want to try, or something you’ve been working on.Go ahead and whisper it…. Can you feel that little strength inside you?It’s there. It’s always been there. And it’s growing, every time you try.You, my friend, are braver than you know.And speaking of courage… I have a small and mighty invitation for you.Every week, I light a lantern and invite you and your family into a world of wonder—where stories carry timeless wisdom, and courage, kindness, and faith take root in young hearts. This podcast is a labor of love, spun late at night after my two little ones are asleep, and offered freely to families everywhere.If Brave & Bright Stories has become a part of your family’s listening adventures, would you consider stepping into our circle of supporters? Your subscription keeps the lanterns lit, the stories flowing, and the values we hold dear shining bright.Here’s how you can join our story world:* Brave & Bright Friend – $8/monthFor the cost of one latte, you help fuel a month’s worth of stories and smiles.* Circle of Light – $80/yearYou keep the flame steady all year long, with a little savings too.* Legacy Lantern – $240/yearOur highest honor. You become a beacon for generations, helping carry these stories—and the virtues they hold—far into the future.Whether you join as a Friend, keep watch in the Circle of Light, or take up the mantle of a Legacy Lantern, know that your support makes a real difference in our lives and in the future of this show.And whether or not you subscribe, I am so glad you are here—helping to keep building our courage,to stay brave,stay bright,and keep growing together…one story at a time.With warmth and wonder,Hannah Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re stepping into a new virtue: Courage.Step on in a little closer… can you smell the sweetness of ripe mangoes in the sun? Can you hear the rustle of peacock feathers, the hum of bees in bright blossoms, the soft, bubbling laughter of a forest stream? Here, in this green and shining place, every creature has a home, and every breeze carries the music of life.But… the skies have been holding their rain for far too long.The air is thirsty. Leaves crumble underfoot.And somewhere, hidden among the branches, a little gray parrot tilts her head, listening.What happens next is a story that can orient us towards courage— Not the kind that roars from mountaintops, but the kind that begins with one small heartbeat, one flap of wings, one drop of water against the impossible.This is the story of The Brave Little Parrot.The Brave Little Parrot invites us into a world where the smallest acts—just a few drops of water—can change everything. As our little ones return to school, or step towards the completion of summer and new rhythms of life, this is a great time to explore courage and all the beautiful forms it can take. What’s the bright point in the story for you today? What stood out and caught your attention? Make sure to share yours with your child, and explore these doorways that can bring you each deeper into the story.Because, although there’s a theme here and specific virtues to explore, each of these stories are filled with so much goodness to journey in to. So, may we all allow our language to leave space for the mystery of what wants to unfurl for each of us in every story….And speaking of courage… I have a small and mighty invitation for you.Every week, I light a lantern and invite you and your family into a world of wonder—where stories carry timeless wisdom, and courage, kindness, and faith take root in young hearts. This podcast is a labor of love, spun at dawn while my two little ones are fast asleep, and offered freely to families everywhere.If Brave & Bright Stories has become a part of your family’s listening adventures, would you consider stepping into our circle of supporters? Your subscription keeps the lanterns lit, the stories flowing, and the values we hold dear shining bright.Here’s how you can join our story world:* Brave & Bright Friend – $8/monthFor the cost of one latte, you help fuel a month’s worth of stories and smiles.* Circle of Light – $80/yearYou keep the flame steady all year long, with a little savings too.* Legacy Lantern – $240/yearOur highest honor. You become a beacon for generations, helping carry these stories—and the virtues they hold—far into the future.Whether you join as a Brave & Bright Friend, keep watch in the Circle of Light, or take up the mantle of a Legacy Lantern, know that your support makes a real difference in our lives and in the future of this show.And whether or not you subscribe, I am so glad you are here, helping to keep building our courage…to stay brave,stay bright,and keep growing together…one story at a time. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring Kindness: the kind that starts with a smile, grows with sharing, and creates warmth wherever it goes. Kindness can feel simple, but it has the power to bring people together in surprising ways. It reminds us that we belong to one another—and that even small acts of service can make a big difference.Today’s story is our final installment in kindness, and is an old and beloved one. It’s about a mysterious traveler, a bubbling pot, and a whole village that rediscovers the magic of giving.Stone Soup is a beautiful tale that reminds us of the power of shared kindness.In times of stress or scarcity, children and adults alike may contract emotionally—just like the villagers. Kindness becomes not just a nice idea, but a way of reconnecting, softening, and healing.When children experience kindness as a form of service—offering something to help another—they begin to understand that they can make a difference. They learn that being kind doesn’t always mean being sweet. It means noticing a need, and choosing to respond with care.Sharing, even in small ways, helps children feel capable, connected, and part of something larger than themselves.This week’s episode is coming your way later than expected due to a wedding, a birth, and a beautiful celebratory event. We will be releasing two episodes this week to round out kindness, and welcome in courage! Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring Kindness—the quiet strength of helping others, the joy of giving without expecting anything in return, and the surprising ways even the smallest act can change a heart, or even a whole day.Today’s story is a classic fable—about a mighty lion, a tiny mouse, and an unexpected act of kindness that weaves them together in the most extraordinary way.It’s a tale that reminds us that no one is too small to make a difference, and kindness is never wasted.This was one of our first three intro special stories, which served as previews of our first three themed months! If you missed it, here’s a great opportunity to tune into this wonderful story. And we are deep in the full swing of summer over here, which means that this week’s post is a bit behind schedule in arriving to your inbox! Stay tuned for a brand new story this coming Monday, the last story for our Kindness theme, and then we are on to Courage next month with some great stories coming your way! For our little listenersSometimes, kindness is a big thing—like saving someone in trouble And sometimes, it’s something small—like saying “thank you” or offering a smile.But all kindness matters.And when we’re kind, we make the world a little softer, a little braver, and a whole lot brighter.Can you think of a time when someone was kind to you in a small way that felt really big? Or a time when you helped someone who didn’t expect it?Kindness is like a circle…. it always comes back around.For our grownupsKindness grows in children when it’s modeled, noticed, and nurtured.This week, invite your child to notice and name small acts of kindness—both given and received. These micro-moments shape how they understand empathy, trust, and connection.You can support this by:* Pointing out kind actions in real time When your child helps a sibling, shares a toy, or comforts a friend, pause and reflect that back:* “I saw how you helped your brother when he was sad—that was so kind of you.”* Modeling empathy out loud (“That person looks sad—I wonder what might help them feel better.”)* Celebrating effort over outcome (“Even though it didn’t work, I saw how kindly you tried.”)Remember: kindness is caught more than it’s taught. When we live it, they learn it. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring Kindness—the quiet strength of helping others, the joy of generosity, and the ripple effect that even the smallest good deed can have in the world around us.Today’s tale is a heartwarming one about a poor shoemaker, a few tiny visitors, and a beautiful exchange of kindness that changes everything. It reminds us that help can come in the most surprising ways—and that a thankful heart can give just as generously as it receives. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Each month, we shine our lantern-light on a special virtue, one powerful quality that helps us live with heart and courage.This month, we're welcoming in Kindness ✨ The warmth of caring. The strength of sharing. The magic of looking out for someone else.Today’s story is about a giant with a cold, closed heart... and how kindness opened it again. It’s a tale of seasons, children, and a garden that remembers the love it was once given. This is The Selfish Giant — a story with wonder, gentleness, and the quiet reminder that kindness always grows. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s story is a playful and profound tale about an emperor, a very strange outfit, and one clear, honest voice. It’s a story about how sometimes, speaking the truth takes bravery… but it can also set us all free.This month, we’re exploring Honesty: the courage to speak the truth, even when it’s hard or when everyone around us stays silent. It’s the kind of honesty that helps us stay connected to what’s real and reminds us to listen to our hearts. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

This month, we’re exploring Honesty: the strength it takes to tell the truth, the beauty of being trustworthy, and the quiet power of words that can be counted on.Today’s story is a golden one about a humble woodsman, a shimmering surprise, and a moment when truth spoke louder than treasure.It’s a tale that shows how honesty, even in small choices, can shine brighter than gold.This story was originally published as one of our first three intro stories, and it’s a gem if you missed it! For those following along, I’ve been traveling the west coast with my two little guys enjoying summer in the rivers and redwoods and visiting friends and family so I am a little late getting this one published! We are looking forward to returning home soon, and we’ve got a brand new story coming out next Monday as the last installment in our month focusing on Honesty. So now —Snuggle in, open your ears, take a slow deep breath…and let’s journey into our story together Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

It’s a story about trust, truth, and what happens when our words lose their meaning. The Boy Who Cried Wolf.Truth is like a bridge between people. Every time we speak truthfully, that bridge gets stronger. But when we twist the truth or use our words carelessly, the bridge begins to crack… until one day, it may not hold at all.Our word has the power to create, and it is vital to shine the light on what we are creating. Let’s turn away from dishonesty, murkiness, and trickery and turn towards truth, clarity, and integrity. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s tale is a timeless one, about a gentle boy named Ping, an Emperor’s test, and a surprising truth that blossoms into something extraordinary. It’s a story of seeds, and the courage to stand tall with honesty, no matter what.Each month, we shine our lantern-light on a special virtue—one powerful quality that helps us live with heart, courage, and kindness.This month, we’re exploring Honesty—the quiet strength it takes to tell the truth, even when it’s hard, the beauty of being trustworthy, and the simple power of words—and actions—that can be counted on. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to all of our little listeners and grownups alike, to this magical space where stories are a call to courage, clarity, and connection. I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself through sharing my heartfelt gratitude that you are here, my prayers for our time on this adventure together, and a sweet family friendly poem that captures the vital heart at the center of this podcast: an invitation to slow down, awaken our senses, and learn from stories and the natural world alike. Get to know the voice behind Brave & Bright Stories and discover what’s coming next as we begin a journey through the theme of Honesty, starting Monday June 9th ✨So snuggle in, open your ears, and let’s grow braver and brighter together —one story at a time. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Brave & Bright Stories—a magical storytelling podcast for families who love wonder, wisdom, and growing together.Before we begin our monthly adventure through the virtues, we’re sharing a special trio of stories—little lanterns to light the path ahead.One story to spark honesty, One to stir kindness, And one to awaken courage. They’re a taste of the magical themes we’ll explore together in the months to come.Today’s tale is about a little girl with a big dream—and the courageous journey she takes to reach it.It’s a story of wonder, determination, and climbing into the sky.So now... ✨ Snuggle in 👂 Open your ears🌬️ Take a slow, deep breath... And Let’s journey into our story together.- - - -Parents: you can submit an audio recording of your little one via email at bravebrightstories@gmail.com :) Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Brave & Bright Stories—a magical storytelling podcast for families who love wonder, wisdom, and growing together.Before we begin our monthly adventure through the virtues, we’re sharing a special trio of stories—little lanterns to light the path ahead. One story to spark honesty, One to stir kindness, And one to awaken courage. They’re a taste of the magical themes we’ll explore together in the months to come.Today’s story is about a tiny mouse and a mighty lion, and how a simple act of kindness can change everything. It’s called The Lion and the Mouse.So now... ✨ Snuggle in 👂 Open your ears🌬️ Take a slow, deep breath... And Let’s journey into our story together. Get full access to Brave & Bright Stories at bravebrightstories.substack.com/subscribe