Culture Kids Podcast

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 story behind. 💙 A Note for Families Today’s adventure reminds us that everything around us has a story. When we take time to listen and learn, our curiosity grows and we feel more connected to the world around us. So next time you meet someone new, notice an animal, or discover something unfamiliar, try asking yourself, “What’s their story?” If you enjoy Culture Kids, a five star rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify helps more families discover the show. Culture Kids is a volunteer run nonprofit, and your support helps keep our Culture Train moving. Grab your imaginary passport and join us again soon for another adventure around the world. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant:  Ami Awad, Emil Kang STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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, how they groom themselves like cats, and how the island itself helped shape their courage, intelligence, and calm nature. Through sights, sounds, and stories from the island, this adventure reminds us that just like dog breeds, cultures and communities are shaped by the places they grow from and the people who care for them. Jindo Island shows us how land and living beings can shape each other over time. This episode invites Culture Kids and families to reflect on their own communities, the places that feel like home, and the experiences that help shape who they are becoming. As always, we end with a reminder that here at Culture Kids, you and your family are welcomed, included, and celebrated for exactly who you are. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher Kim Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad & Emil Kang STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you! Sources: https://www.thekkf.or.kr/new_home/en/koreanbreeds.php https://www.royalkennelclub.com/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/utility/korean-jindo-imp/ https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=93802 http://www.jindos.org/breed-info.htm https://korelimited.com

Get ready for giggles as Culture Kids from around the world share their silliest, funniest, laugh-out-loud jokes. From animal jokes to classic kid humor, this segment is all about having fun, using your imagination, and laughing together. Thank you to every Culture Kid who sent in a joke. We loved reading them, we loved sharing them, and most of all, we love YOU. Your jokes make our Culture Train even more joyful. As we look ahead to a brand new year, we want to pause for a moment and say thank you to our amazing Culture Kid...YOU! We hope you remember that there is nobody else in the world like you. Your curiosity, imagination, and sense of adventure help make our world brighter, and we cannot wait to keep exploring our beautiful, diverse planet with you. And to the grown ups listening, thank you for helping create a more connected and welcoming world for children everywhere. It’s because of you that our Culture Train can keep chugging along. We hope you’ll continue leaning into the magic, wonder, and meaning of these shared adventures. Here’s to a year filled with joy, connection, and exciting new journeys and we’re so glad you’re riding the Culture Train with us!!! ABOUT CULTURE KIDS Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts; it really helps new families discover our show. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kimt Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad & Emil Kang STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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 learning why they have one hump How desert homes are built using mud, clay, and hay to stay cool and warm Why soccer is loved by kids all over the world Desert adventures like sandboarding and watching the sunset over the dunes Through gentle conversation, sound-rich storytelling, and lots of imagination, this episode helps kids picture life in the Sahara while learning how environment, culture, and history shape the way people live. This episode features Mohammed, a local Amazigh guide who grew up in the Sahara Desert and now shares Moroccan culture, language, and desert life with families from around the world. If your family is planning a trip to Morocco and would like to experience the Sahara Desert with a local guide, you can learn more through: Positively Morocco Tours (ask for Mohammed from Culture Kids) https://positivelymoroccotours.com/ https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293732-d16734409-Reviews-Positively_Morocco_Tours-Casablanca_Casablanca_Settat.html CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest: Mohammed from Positively Tours Morocco Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant:  Ami Awad, Emil Kang STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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 episodes, transcripts, activity guides, coloring sheets, and images Apple Podcasts : ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-objects-could-talk/id1833978909⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLij2XTFgmBSRjG57WlJA2RhkWB4OkGGtG ********************* ABOUT CULTURE KIDS Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it really helps new families discover our show. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest & Co Producer: Zoe Goldman/ J. Paul Getty Trust Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you! 🎉 Culture Kids Joke Fest Reminder! There is still time to send in your funniest joke. Simply leave it in a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts. Your joke might be featured in our special end of year Joke Fest episode.

Grab your imaginary passports because today, we’re fluttering into a magical world filled with glowing flowers, shimmering wings, and butterflies from all around the globe! This special adventure was inspired by Eleanor, age 5! Thank you for suggesting this beautiful episode! 🌼 What Kids Will Experience In this immersive audio journey, children and families explore an enchanted meadow where flowers shift colors, mango trees suddenly appear, and butterflies share their hidden secrets. Through storytelling, imagination, and playful discovery, kids learn surprising facts about butterflies and the important role they play in different cultures around the world. 🦋 What Kids Will Learn • Why butterflies can taste with their feet • How butterflies see colors that humans can’t • How some butterflies survive freezing winters • What a proboscis is and how it works • Why Monarch butterflies travel up to 3,000 miles • The cultural importance of Monarchs during Día de Muertos • Why Blue Morphos look blue even though they technically aren’t • How butterflies help keep forests and ecosystems healthy • How Indigenous communities in the Amazon view and honor brightly colored butterflies This adventure invites children to slow down, look closely, and appreciate the small wonders around them. Butterflies teach us that even delicate creatures can be extraordinary, surprising, and important, and that our world is full of magic waiting to be discovered. ABOUT CULTURE KIDS Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, it really helps new families discover our show. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher Kim Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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 holiday magic means to families around the world and learn simple, meaningful ways they can share their own spark of kindness this season. Links & Resources Explore more about today’s destination: Rockefeller Center Official Site: https://www.rockefellercenter.com About the Rockefeller Christmas Tree: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/rockefeller-center-christmas-tree About Prometheus Statue: https://www.rockefellercenter.com/art-and-history/prometheus ABOUT CULTURE KIDS Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, it really helps new families discover our show! CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher Kim Guest: Dhruv Singhal Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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, 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 episodes, transcripts, activity guides, coloring sheets, and images Apple Podcasts : ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-objects-could-talk/id1833978909⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLij2XTFgmBSRjG57WlJA2RhkWB4OkGGtG ********************* ABOUT CULTURE KIDS Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it really helps new families discover our show. CREDITS Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest: Zoe Goldman/ J. Paul Getty Trust Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad STAY CONNECTED WITH US! Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site, we love hearing from you!

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 beauty of cultural diversity across this incredible country. About Our City Adventure Series : The Our City Adventure series is published by Phoenix Tree Publishing, Inc. These books invite readers to travel vicariously through several of China’s exciting cities: Xi’an, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, etc., learning about the local culture, language, foods, and more! Buy Here: https://www.phoenixtree.com/shop Search for "Our City Adventures" and choose a city of your choice- or buy them all! Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it really helps new families discover our show. Credits Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest: Dan Song Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad Stay connected with us: Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site — we love hearing from you!

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 fire, using sofrito, Dominican oregano, garlic, and black pepper. Ms. D even shows us the clever trick of adding a little brown sugar to create that deep, golden color on the chicken. Connect & Follow Ms D Instagram: @_cookingwitd — “The Dominican Way, bueno my way!” TikTok: (look for “CookingWitD”) Email/Partnerships: cookingwitd1@gmail.com 📣 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 @culturekidsproductions and tag us when you ride the “Culture Train” or explore a new tradition. Leave us a 5★ rating on Apple Podcasts ! Your review amplifies our reach so more children feel they belong and discover new cultures with us. Credits Hosts: Kristen & Asher Kim Guest & Co Producer: Ms. Dahianna (CookingwitD) Edited, Written and Produced by: Kristen Kim Music & Sound FX: Envato Elements Audio Engineer & Post: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li

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 @culturekidsproductions and tag us when you ride the “Culture Train” or explore a new tradition. Leave us a 5★ rating on Apple Podcasts ! Your review amplifies our reach so more children feel they belong and discover new cultures with us. Credits Hosts: Kristen & Asher Kim Guest & Co Producer: Mariana Rios Ramirez Edited, Written and Produced by: Kristen Kim Music & Sound FX: Envato Elements Audio Engineer & Post: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li

[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 MacBride of Koala Kids 📄 Bonus: Download the free SEL Activity Sheet 🎵 Explore: The music featured in each episode About the series: Big Emotions: Kids Listen Mashups is a 7-part audio adventure created by the Kids Listen members. Each episode pairs two related feelings, helping kids (and grownups!) understand, name, and navigate emotions in all their shapes and sizes. Follow @KidsListen on Instagram and LinkedIn for more updates and inspiration!

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. You’ll also discover how different cultures find beautiful, meaningful ways to honor those they love... reminding us that remembrance can be both peaceful and full of life. Explore With Columbus Guatemala Travel! Address: 2da Calle Poniente 2, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala Columbus Guatemala Travel Phone (Guatemala): +502 5376 5147 Phone (US number): (650) 241-1444 Email: info@columbusguatemalatravel.com Website: columbusguatemalatravel.com Instagram: @columbus.guatemala.travel PLEASE KEEP OUR CULTURE TRAIN CHUGGING ALONG! Every bit of donation helps us keep our train running (THANK YOU!!) DONATE: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Please leave us a 5-star rating on Apple or Spotify to spread our mission: Follow: Instagram @culturekidsproductions for fun behind-the-scenes footage!

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 spooky at FIRST, but hold special meaning in cultures around the world. Meet owls that whisper wisdom in Greece and Japan, and black cats that bring luck and love instead of fright! Along the way, discover how stories, beliefs, and traditions can change the way we see the world around us. By the end of this adventure, you might just realize that what feels spooky at first can turn out to be something beautiful- when we take time to learn, listen, and look a little closer. 🌍✨ 💛 Support Our Work Culture Kids Productions is a small nonprofit powered by passion and community. Your donations help us keep creating audio adventures that inspire curiosity, belonging, and joy for kids everywhere. 👉 Donate or learn more: www.culturekidsproductions.org 📧 Contact us: hello@culturekidsmedia.com 📸 Follow us: Instagram @culturekidsproductions YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@culturekidsproductions Every gift — big or small — helps our tiny team continue to share the world’s stories with children and families everywhere. Thank you for being part of the Culture Kids community! 🌈🚂 Credits: Written and Produced by: Kristen Kim Hosts: Kristen, Asher, and Arden Kim Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Education Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad

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 inspirations! Website: https://loudmouthkitchen.com/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@LoudmouthKitchen IG: https://www.instagram.com/loudmouth_kitchen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loudmouth_kitchen 🚂 Please support Culture Kids! Visit culturekidsproductions.org and click the “Support” tab to help us keep our Culture Train rolling! Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it really helps new families discover our show. Credits Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest: LoudMouth Kitchen, Mr. Dino Featured Music: Miqayel Voskanyan Produced by Culture Kids Productions, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children embrace a multicultural mindset. Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad Stay connected with us: Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site.. we love hearing from you!

All aboard the Magical Culture Train — we’re heading to Seoul, South Korea! 🌏 Join Kristen and Asher as they travel to Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Korea’s most famous royal palaces, and visit a hanbok shop to learn all about the traditional clothing of kings, queens, and everyday people from long ago. 👘 Inspired by K-Pop Demon Hunters, Asher gets curious about the famous black hat — the gat — worn by the saja boys in the movie! Together, they discover where these hats came from, what Korean kings and queens really wore during the Joseon Dynasty, and how these traditions still shine in Korean culture today. In this episode, your family will: 🎶 Explore how K-pop and traditional Korean fashion meet in fun ways — even in K-Pop Demon Hunters! 👑 Learn what Korean kings and queens wore hundreds of years ago 🎨 Discover the colorful beauty and meaning behind the hanbok 🏯 Step into Gyeongbokgung Palace — a 600-year-old royal home in the heart of Seoul 💡 Find out how everyday people once wore gats, the tall black hats that became symbols of wisdom and respect This adventure brings together history, art, music, and pop culture, showing how ancient Korean traditions continue to inspire creativity today — from royal palaces to K-pop stages! 🌸 Please Support Culture Kids! Culture Kids Productions is a small, volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to helping families embrace differences, explore world cultures, and build empathy through storytelling. If you’d like to help us continue creating free educational audio adventures for kids everywhere: 🎁 Support us today: www.culturekidsmedia.com/support ⭐ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — this helps other families discover our show! 💌 Share our podcast with a friend or your child’s teacher — every share helps our mission grow! 📸 Instagram: @culturekidsproductions 🌐 Website: www.culturekidsproductions.org 📬 Email: hello@culturekidsmedia.com Learn more about Gyeongbokgung Palace: Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁) was the royal residence of Korean kings during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). The name “Gyeongbokgung” means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.” Visitors today can explore its Throne Hall (Geunjeongjeon), Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Hyangwonjeong Pond, where the royal family once rested. You can even rent a hanbok nearby and walk through the palace like royalty — just like Mom and Asher did in today’s episode! Written and produced by Kristen and Asher Kim Hosted by Kristen and Asher Kim Special thanks to John Kim for helping us learn about hanboks! Theme music by Culture Kids Productions 🎵

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 modern sounds. His work celebrates Armenia’s vibrant musical heritage. Follow Miqayel on Instagram: @miqayelvoskanyan Learn more and listen to his music: http://miqayelvoskanyan.com Culture Kids is a grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by families and volunteers, creating free, world-class cultural education for children everywhere. We rely on your support to keep the Culture Train chugging along. Here’s how you can help: Donate: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it really helps new families discover our show. Credits Host and Produced By: Kristen Kim Co-Hosts: Asher & Arden Kim Guest: Astrid Kamalyan, author of Babo: A Tale of Armenian Rug Washing Day Featured Music: Miqayel Voskanyan Produced by Culture Kids Productions, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children embrace a multicultural mindset. Post Production & Audio Engineer: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad Stay connected with us: Instagram: @culturekidsproductions Website: http://culturekidsproductions.com Email / Voicemail: available through our site — we love hearing from you!

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 by Phoenix Tree Publishing, Inc. These books invite readers to travel vicariously through several of China’s exciting cities: Xi’an, Chengdu, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, etc., learning about the local culture, language, foods, and more! Buy Here: https://www.phoenixtree.com/shop Search for "Our City Adventures" and choose a city of your choice- or buy them all!

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 Kamalyan, author of Babo: A Tale of Armenian Rug-Washing Day, as our guide for this episode! Her debut picture book is a beautiful celebration of Armenian culture and traditions, perfect for sharing with kids. 📖 Buy Astrid’s books: https://astridkamalyan.com/books/babo-a-tale-of-armenian-rug-washing-day/ https://astridkamalyan.com/ Follow Astrid on Instagram: @astridkamalyan 🎶 Featured Music: Miqayel Voskanyan (with Oberton Records) We want to extend a huge thank you to Oberton Records for allowing us to feature music by Miqayel Voskanyan in this episode. Miqayel Voskanyan is an internationally acclaimed Armenian composer and tar player who has been revolutionizing Armenian folk music by blending traditional sounds with jazz, funk, and contemporary global influences. His work introduces the soulful sound of the tar—Armenia’s signature stringed instrument—to audiences worldwide, making Armenian music fresh and accessible for a new generation. 🎧 Listen & Learn More: YouTube Channel Oberton Records Website Instagram – @miqayelvoskanyan Please check out Miqayel’s music and share it with your friends—supporting artists like him helps keep cultural traditions alive and evolving. 💛 Support Culture Kids Culture Kids Productions is a nonprofit organization creating joyful, inclusive, and educational content for children all over the world. Our mission is to nurture curiosity, connection, and empathy—one episode at a time. Here’s how you can help us keep the Culture Train rolling: 💛 Donate: Support Culture Kids ⭐ Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify 📢 Share our show with just one friend or family member who loves to explore Your support helps us keep Culture Kids free and accessible for families everywhere!

🚂✨ All aboard for a flavor adventure! This week, the Culture Train stops in Richmond, Virginia to visit San-J International, where soy sauce has been brewed the traditional Japanese way for over 220 years! 🍶🌱 Join Kristen & Asher as they: 🍣 Learn the difference between soy sauce and tamari 🏯 Discover how samurais once used soy sauce 🏗️ Step inside tanks as tall as buildings where fermentation magic happens 🌍 Help Keep the Culture Train Rolling! 🚂 Culture Kids Productions is a nonprofit on a mission to empower children everywhere to embrace a multicultural mindset. 🌏✨ When you share our podcast with a friend, leave a review, or donate, you help us: 📚 Create free cultural education resources 🎥 Expand into video so kids can see what they’re learning 🎧 Keep producing free global adventures for families 💛 Support Culture Kids: https://www.culturekidsmedia.com/support/ Every share, rating, and dollar keeps inclusive cultural learning alive — and helps more kids find a seat at our multicultural table. 🪑🌎 Credits: Executive Producer & Host: Kristen Kim Co-Producer & Host: Asher Kim Guest & Co-Host: Takashi Sato Audio Engineer & Post: Robin Lai Academic Consultant: Elisha Li Nonprofit Consultant: Ami Awad Music/Sound Elements: Envato