Episodes

  • Wait... Chocolate Grows on Trees?!

    Wait... Chocolate Grows on Trees?!
    May 23 2025
    🎧 Episode Title: The Magical Journey of Chocolate – From Tree to Treat! 🌱 Description: Hop aboard the Culture Train and journey with us deep into the lush Amazon Basin—home to the magical cacao tree! In this chocolatey adventure, Asher, Arden, and Kristen explore the rainforest to discover where chocolate really comes from, how it’s made, and the many people around the world who help bring this sweet treat to life. From white gooey pulp to bitter beans to the final chocolate bar—we’ll follow every step of the journey and even learn how chocolate connects to ancient cultures like the Maya and Aztecs! 🎉 Plus, special shoutouts to our Culture Kids listeners Augy and Chloe from Idaho! Thank you for your amazing reviews and ideas! 🌍 In this episode, you’ll learn: What a cacao tree looks like and why it grows in rainforests What’s inside a cacao pod (hint: it’s not chocolate—yet!) How cacao beans are fermented, dried, and turned into chocolate The cultural history of chocolate and its importance in ancient ceremonies How to look for Fair Trade or Ethically Sourced labels to support cacao farmers around the world 💚 Want to support Culture Kids? If you love what we’re doing, visit culturekidsproductions.org and click the Support tab to make a donation. Every contribution—big or small—helps keep our show free and accessible for families everywhere. With your help, we’re growing our Culture Kids table so that every child has a seat and a place to belong. 🍫 Bonus Questions to Ask Your Kids: What part of the cacao pod did you find most surprising? Why do you think it’s important to know where our food comes from? What would you invent if you had your own chocolate factory? 🐘 Coming next: Join us next week as we return to Botswana’s Okavango Delta for a safari adventure! We'll meet wild animals like elephants, hippos, and more. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single magical journey!
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    18 mins
  • 🌋✨ Ready to Sleep on an ACTIVE Volcano in Nicaragua?

    🌋✨ Ready to Sleep on an ACTIVE Volcano in Nicaragua?
    May 16 2025
    Hola Culture Kids! 👋 Grab your hiking boots, marshmallows, and imaginary passports because we’re going on an epic adventure to... Telica Volcano in Nicaragua! 🇳🇮🔥 Join Kristen, Asher, and our amazing guides Alvaro and Aislyn from Tuani Tours as we: 🧗‍♂️ Hike up one of the most active volcanoes in Central America 🌌 Camp under the stars with a front-row view of a glowing magma crater (yes, MAGMA!) 🐄 Meet friendly goats and cows on the trail 🍽️ Learn how volcanoes help grow tasty local food 👃 Discover why it smells like... rotten eggs?! (Hint: it's not someone's socks!) 🔥 And enjoy a bonfire with marshmallows and sunset views you’ll never forget! Whether you're curious about what magma is, or just want to hear what it's like to sleep on a real volcano (safely, of course!)—this is an adventure you don’t want to miss. 🎧 So hop on the Culture Train and let’s explore the magic, mystery, and community spirit of Nicaragua together! ✨ Featured Guests: Tuani Tours Nicaragua Tuani Tours offers immersive, family-friendly experiences across Nicaragua, with a focus on sustainable travel and community connection. 📍 Book your family adventure: www.tuanitoursnicaragua.com 📧 Email: info@tuanitoursnicaragua.com 📸 Follow on Instagram: @tuanitoursnicaragua 👍 Facebook: Tuani Tours Nicaragua 💛 Support & Connect with Us 🚨 We Need Your Support! 🚨 For the past two years, Culture Kids has been a volunteer-run labor of love, created by families, for families. We’ve worked hard to make our show free and accessible to all because we believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated. 🌍 We’re currently seeking grants, donations, and resources to keep our show going. We’re passionate about continuing to provide joyful, inclusive cultural education, and we have big dreams for the future 💌 If you know of any opportunities or funding sources that can help, please reach out to us at hello@culturekidsmedia.com. To donate: (and receive a special shoutout!) https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Thank you for believing in this mission. With your support, we can keep the Culture Train rolling. 🚂💛
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    20 mins
  • Let's Visit Botswana! The Okavango Delta & Bayei Village

    Let's Visit Botswana! The Okavango Delta & Bayei Village
    May 9 2025
    🌿 Episode Highlights: Join Kristen and Asher as they journey through the heart of Botswana, discovering the rich culture and landscapes of the Okavango Delta. Experience life in a Bayei village, learning about traditional homes made from natural materials and the significance of the kgosi (village chief). Discover how local artisans create beautiful baskets using reeds and natural dyes from plants and trees. Learn about the diverse languages spoken in Botswana, including Setswana. Understand the sustainable practices of the Bayei people, from building materials to community living. About Kalahari Breeze Safaris Kalahari Breeze Safaris is a family-owned tour company based in Maun, Botswana, offering authentic and eco-friendly safari experiences. Their tours include wild camping experiences, cultural village visits, and customized safaris tailored to include activities like mokoro rides and game drives. Contact & Booking: 🌐 Website: kalaharibreezesafaris.com 📧 Email: info@kalaharibreezesafaris.com 📞 Phone: +267 73 833 891 📸 Instagram: @kalaharibreezesafaris 👍 Facebook: Kalahari Breeze Safaris Please Support Us! Culture Kids is a grassroots, volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to creating educational content that celebrates global cultures. We rely on donations and grants to continue our work. If you enjoy our episodes and want to support our mission: 💻 Visit our website: culturekidsproductions.org 💝 Make a donation: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Subscribe to Culture Kids on your favorite podcast platform and embark on more adventures around the world. Don't forget to leave a review and share with friends! Guests: Chris and Maria (Kalahari Breeze Safaris) Hosts: Kristen and Asher Sound FX and Music: Envato Elements Producted and Edited by: Kristen Kim Audio Engineering and Post: Robin Lai
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    20 mins
  • Cheesemaking with Abuela in Jiquilillo, Nicaragua

    Cheesemaking with Abuela in Jiquilillo, Nicaragua
    May 2 2025
    Hop on the Culture Train with Kristen and Asher as they journey to the beautiful coastal village of Jiquilillo, Nicaragua! In this heartwarming episode, we meet Alvaro and Aislyn from Tuani Tours Nicaragua and discover what it’s like to live in a small fishing village where nature, community, and tradition are deeply connected. 🏝️ From freshwater sharks in Lake Nicaragua to wild horses by the beach, we explore the unique landscapes of Nicaragua 🧀 Learn how to make cuajada, a special kind of cheese that doesn’t even need a refrigerator 🔥 Discover how the local volcano helps make the land—and the cheese—extra special 👵 Meet Abuela, a beloved cheesemaker who shares her story and passes on traditions to new generations 🌍 Reflect on what it means to be part of a tight-knit community, and how people work together to support one another This episode is filled with culture, joy, and cheesy surprises—so grab your imaginary passports and get ready for a meaningful adventure! ✨ Featured Guests: Tuani Tours Nicaragua Tuani Tours offers immersive, family-friendly experiences across Nicaragua, with a focus on sustainable travel and community connection. 📍 Book your family adventure: www.tuanitoursnicaragua.com 📧 Email: info@tuanitoursnicaragua.com 📸 Follow on Instagram: @tuanitoursnicaragua 👍 Facebook: Tuani Tours Nicaragua 💛 Support & Connect with Us 🚨 We Need Your Support! 🚨 For the past two years, Culture Kids has been a volunteer-run labor of love, created by families, for families. We’ve worked hard to make our show free and accessible to all because we believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and celebrated. 🌍 We’re currently seeking grants, donations, and resources to keep our show going. We’re passionate about continuing to provide joyful, inclusive cultural education, and we have big dreams for the future 💌 If you know of any opportunities or funding sources that can help, please reach out to us at hello@culturekidsmedia.com. To donate: (and receive a special shoutout!) https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Thank you for believing in this mission. With your support, we can keep the Culture Train rolling. 🚂💛
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    22 mins
  • Eggs, Bunnies & Time Machines: The Story of Easter!

    Eggs, Bunnies & Time Machines: The Story of Easter!
    Apr 25 2025
    Grab your imaginary passports—because in this egg-cellent episode of Culture Kids, Asher and his mom, Kristen, hop into the Culture Kids Time Machine to crack the case of Easter! 🐣✨ Together, we explore how Easter became one of the most meaningful celebrations for many families around the world—especially for Christians, who honor the resurrection of Jesus and His message of hope, love, and new beginnings. From ancient rituals to joyful modern-day traditions, we uncover: How decorated eggs go way back—like, 60,000 years back, Why a Roman emperor helped choose Easter’s date, The story behind the Easter Bunny and its springtime symbolism, And amazing Easter customs from Greece, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Poland, and more! 🌏 Asher also shares his favorite parts—like chocolate bunnies, golden egg hunts, and ninja-style snack strategies. 😄 🌸 For our family, Easter is a time to reflect on the story of Jesus and remember that no matter where we are or what we're going through, there's always the chance for a beautiful new beginning. We hope this season brings you peace, joy, and lots of curiosity. 💛 Culture Kids is a nonprofit created by families, for families. If you'd like to support our mission to keep the show free and accessible to all, or if you can connect us with educators, grantmakers, or sponsors, we’d love to hear from you! 🎙️ Coming soon: Join us as we travel to a peaceful fishing village in Nicaragua and the wetlands of Botswana! Subscribe so you never miss a Culture Kids adventure! 🚂🌍 🌍 About Culture Kids Productions Culture Kids Productions is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a multicultural mindset among children through engaging and educational content.​ Contact Information: Website: culturekidsproductions.org Email: hello@culturekidspodcast.com Instagram: @culturekidsproductions ​Education Consultant: Elisha Li Post Production: Robin Lai Produced and Edited By: Kristen Kim Hosts: Kristen and Asher Kim Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Wad Sound FX and Music: Envato Elements & Archive.org
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    17 mins
  • Part 2: The Story of Passover with Rabbi Selilah

    Part 2: The Story of Passover with Rabbi Selilah
    Apr 18 2025
    💌 We are actively seeking grant opportunities and connections to sustain our show and expand our vision—if you know of any leads or would like to collaborate, please reach out to us at grants@culturekidsmedia.com or hello@culturekidsmedia.com. 💌 ************************* Episode Summary In this special Passover episode, Kristen and Asher revisit Rabbi Selilah to explore the rich traditions of Passover. They explore the significance of the seder, the symbolism of the seder plate, and the unique customs that make this holiday meaningful and fun for families. Listeners will learn about the storytelling aspects of the seder, the importance of matzah, and the joyous search for the afikomen. The episode highlights how different families celebrate Passover, emphasizing the values of gratitude, freedom, and community.​ 🕊️ What You'll Learn The significance of matzah and why it's eaten during Passover The components and symbolism of the seder plate Family traditions like decorating the dining room as a tent and reenacting the journey from Egypt The fun and meaning behind the afikomen hunt How Passover customs can vary among different Jewish communities​ 🏫 About Shalem Preschool Shalem Preschool, also known as the Shalem Early Childhood Learning Center, is located in Manhattan Beach, California. The preschool is housed within Congregation Tikvat Jacob Beth Torah (CTJ) and offers a nurturing environment for early childhood education.​ Contact Information: Address: 1829 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Phone: (914) 224-5882 Website: shalempreschool.org​ 🌍 About Culture Kids Productions Culture Kids Productions is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering a multicultural mindset among children through engaging and educational content.​ Contact Information: Website: culturekidsproductions.org Email: hello@culturekidspodcast.com Instagram: @culturekidsproductions ​Education Consultant: Elisha Li Post Production: Robin Lai Produced and Edited By: Kristen Kim Hosts: Kristen and Asher Kim Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Wad Sound FX and Music: Envato Elements & Archive.org
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    15 mins
  • Kimchi Time Travel! 🥬 A Crunchy Adventure Through Korean History

    Kimchi Time Travel! 🥬 A Crunchy Adventure Through Korean History
    Apr 11 2025
    💌 We are actively seeking grant opportunities and connections to sustain our show and expand our vision—if you know of any leads or would like to collaborate, please reach out to us at grants@culturekidsmedia.com or hello@culturekidsmedia.com. 💌 ************************* Annyeonghaseyo, Culture Kids! 🌏✈️ Grab your imaginary chopsticks and hop into the Culture Kids Time Machine—because today, we’re heading to ancient Korea to learn all about the beloved dish: kimchi! 🥬🫙 Join us as we: Discover how kimchi began thousands of years ago in Korea 🇰🇷 Explore what fermentation really means (hint: it's not magic, but it’s close!) Learn about onggi jars 🏺 buried in the ground like flavorful treasure chests Travel through time to find out when kimchi turned red and spicy 🌶️ Try different types of kimchi (and just a little watering down 😅) 🌶️ Plus, we talk about: Why some foods smell “different” How trying new dishes with a growth mindset can open your heart and brain 🍽️💡 What makes food special to each family around the world 🌎💕 🎉 Perfect for ages 4–8 and their grown-ups, this episode is a flavorful journey packed with history, science, family traditions—and, of course, crunchy bites! 📸 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @culturekidsproductions for behind-the-scenes fun, and leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to be featured on a future episode! 👉 Visit us at: www.culturekidsproductions.org 📧 Email us: hello@culturekidspodcast.com Education Consultant: Elisha Li Post Production: Robin Lai Produced and Edited By: Kristen Kim Hosts: Kristen and Asher Kim Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Wad Sound FX and Music: Envato Elements & Archive.org
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    18 mins
  • Return to Hsi Lai Temple 🛕✨ – Meditation, Monks & Mindfulness!

    Return to Hsi Lai Temple 🛕✨ – Meditation, Monks & Mindfulness!
    Apr 4 2025
    💌 We are actively seeking grant opportunities and connections to sustain our show and expand our vision—if you know of any leads or would like to collaborate, please reach out to us at grants@culturekidsmedia.com or hello@culturekidsmedia.com. 💌 ************* ⚠️ Meditation Safety Note: This episode includes a short guided meditation. Please do not listen to the meditation portion while driving, biking, or operating any kind of vehicle or machinery. It’s best enjoyed when you're seated safely or lying down in a calm, quiet space. 🧘🏽‍♀️🌿 ************* Grab your imaginary passport and hop on the Culture Train 🚂 because we’re heading back to the breathtaking Hsi Lai Temple in California! 🏞️ This episode is all about discovering the peaceful world of Buddhism — where ancient wisdom, colorful flags, and quiet meditation help guide us toward compassion, mindfulness, and inner calm. 🧘🏽‍♀️💛 👩‍👦 Join your hosts Kristen and Asher as they meet the kind and wise Venerable Hui Cheng again for a magical adventure filled with: ✨ Peaceful gardens, golden statues & chanting monks 🙏 Secret greetings like the lotus mudra and "Omituofo" 🎨 Learning about the beautiful meanings behind the Buddhist flag 🧘🏽‍♂️ Trying a real meditation session to calm the “monkey mind” 🥢 Discovering yummy vegetarian food served with love 💡 PLUS! You’ll hear about what makes each color on the Buddhist flag so special—and how even one tiny breath can help us feel more peaceful inside. 🌼 Stay till the end to hear Venerable Hui Cheng’s inspiring message: “Do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts.” ❤️ 💬 Try This at Home! What brings you peace and joy? Draw it, share it, or breathe with it. Maybe it’s a cozy blanket, a pet snuggle, or blowing out birthday candles super slooowly 🎂💨 ⭐️ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify—it helps our Culture Train reach more families like yours! 🌐 Want to support our journey? Visit www.culturekidsproductions.org to make a donation—big or small, your love helps us grow. 🌱 We are looking *********************************** 🌸 About Hsi Lai Temple 🌸 Hsi Lai Temple (pronounced shee lie) means “Coming West” in Chinese and was built to share the teachings of Humanistic Buddhism. It’s one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Western Hemisphere, nestled in the hills of Hacienda Heights, California. 🇺🇸🧘🏾‍♂️ Built in traditional Chinese architectural style, the temple features majestic red gates, peaceful lotus ponds, serene gardens, and stunning statues of the Buddha. 🪷🛕 It serves as a cultural and spiritual center for the community and offers educational programs, meditation classes, vegetarian meals, and more! Founded by Fo Guang Shan, a global Buddhist organization from Taiwan, Hsi Lai Temple is part of a network of over 300 branch temples around the world. 🌍 Whether you're visiting to explore, learn, or simply enjoy a moment of quiet, the temple welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs. ❤️ 🌐 Connect with Hsi Lai Temple Online Explore more about Hsi Lai Temple, their events, and teachings through their official channels: Website: www.hsilai.org Instagram: @hsilaitemple LinkedIn: Hsi Lai Temple Follow them to stay updated on upcoming events, cultural activities, and more! 🎙️ Discover 'Bodhi Light Tales' – A Podcast for Kids! Looking for more Buddhist stories and wisdom tailored for young listeners? Check out Bodhi Light Tales, a charming podcast featuring short stories of Buddhism by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, narrated by Venerable Miao Guang. Each episode offers engaging tales that impart valuable lessons on mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom—perfect for Culture Kids like you! 🌟 Listen to Bodhi Light Tales on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. 🎧
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    19 mins
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