Chalk and Coffee
Welcome to Chalk and Coffee, the podcast for teachers, early career educators, and parents who are passionate about creating a thriving environment for children. Join host Shana Roberts—an experienced educator, parent, and author—as she explores the vital roles of teachers and parents in shaping young lives. Through insightful interviews with professionals, parents, and authors, you’ll gain valuable perspectives, effective teaching strategies, and innovative approaches to support children through life’s challenges. This podcast also features regular episodes tailored specifically for early career teachers. Shana is deeply passionate about supporting new educators as they navigate the early stages of their teaching journey. These episodes offer practical advice, real-world insights, and encouragement to help you thrive in the classroom. Whether you’re an experienced teacher looking for fresh inspiration, a parent seeking guidance, or an early career educator eager for support, Chalk and Coffee provides the tools and connections to empower you. Join us today—your next cup of inspiration is just a listen away!
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Episodes
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Kathy Imabayashi, a retired Canadian international educator who has spent decades working as a classroom teacher and school leader in Japan, Lebanon, Thailand, Georgia, and Qatar. Kathy’s passion has always been focused on children, their parents, and educators, and she brings a wealth of experience and insight to our conversation.
Now based in Japan, Kathy is the founder of Sonhood Coaching, where she guides parents raising boys to better understand their sons and the world they are growing up in. Through her work, she advocates for protecting boys’ inner emotional worlds while equipping adults with the knowledge and tools needed to help boys thrive during their earliest years.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate for children’s well-being, you won’t want to miss this thoughtful and insightful episode!
Get in touch with a Kathy
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If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
This week, I’m joined by the insightful Edwina Cottino, an Early Childhood educator. Her teaching journey has taken her from Dubai to Perth, blending her background in Applied Psychology and Education with a passion for inquiry-based learning.
With over a decade in the Pre-Primary classroom, Edwina has seen firsthand how kids thrive when they explore their interests. Inspired by mentors like Dr. Claire Warden and Kath Murdoch, she champions a balance between structured literacy and numeracy instruction with the magic of project-based learning.
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
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If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I chat with Alpesh Palmar, author of Growing the Money Tree for Kids—an innovative book that introduces children to the value of money and the basics of investing.
Aplesh shares his inspiration behind writing the book and how it equips young readers with essential money management skills, from saving and budgeting to simple investments. With interactive stories and fun activities, the book uses age-appropriate language to make financial literacy exciting and accessible for kids.
Join us as we discuss the importance of teaching financial skills from a young age and how parents and educators can empower children to build a foundation for financial success. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious about building money smarts in kids, you’ll love this insightful episode!
Get in touch with a Alpesh
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Until next time, take care.
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I’m joined by author Amy Harvey, who shares her journey behind the creation of her beautiful book Fishing with Grandad. Amy takes us through her writing journey, the inspiration for this touching story about the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, and how it connects with young readers.
We discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of family connections in children’s literature, and how Fishing with Grandad encourages patience, adventure, and love. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a fan of delightful children’s stories, this episode is full of valuable insights and a wonderful reading recommendation for young families.
Get in touch with Amy
Amy's Website
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
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Feature as a Guest
If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Sarah Adams, a Montessori teacher and professional organiser, to discuss how families can create calm, functional, and child-friendly spaces using the Montessori approach. Sarah shares her expert tips on fostering independence at home, setting up organised play and learning areas, and simplifying the home environment to support a child’s natural development.
Whether new to Montessori or looking for practical ways to declutter and create a more intentional home, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in as we explore how small changes can impact your child's confidence, curiosity, and love for learning.
Get in touch with Sarah
Sarah's Website
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
Visit my website
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Feature as a Guest
If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Thursday Feb 06, 2025
In this episode, I'm thrilled to share the audio from a special interview with award-winning Australian author Michelle Worthington, who turns the spotlight on me! In our conversation, Michelle explores my creative journey as an author, educator, and parent, delving into the inspiration behind my books and how storytelling connects with my passion for supporting children and families.
The episode also includes an audiobook reading of my book, Don't Go. This heartfelt tale follows a young koala called Joey, who navigates separation anxiety, offering a relatable and comforting story for children facing similar challenges. It's the perfect resource for families and educators supporting children through moments of transition and change.
For more support, my website offers an Educator's Guide and a Parent Guide, which provide practical strategies for extending the story's impact. Explore Don't Go and additional resources on my website.
Want to hear more from Michelle? Check out her Youtube Channel, where she shares valuable insights and interviews with writers, illustrators, and professionals.
Listen to the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8R3BTYcPok
Get in touch with Michelle
Michelle's Website
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
Visit my website
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Feature as a Guest
If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
In this episode, I'm joined by Reesa Morala, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting parents and families. Reesa's journey began by working with adolescents and their families, as well as educating school staff on how to create environments where children can thrive. Her passion lies in equipping parents with the tools they need to nurture their relationships, foster emotional well-being, and inspire positive change within their families.
Together, we explore:💡 The importance of prioritising mental wellness in parenting and family dynamics.💡 Strategies for breaking free from power struggles and implementing mindful, supportive practices that build emotional intelligence.💡 The beauty of embracing real-life parenting struggles and finding connection through shared experiences (no more Insta-perfect!). Reesa also gives us a sneak peek into her podcast, where parents share their raw, unfiltered stories—and their favourite recipes for busy family life!
Whether you're a parent or educator, this conversation will leave you inspired to focus on what truly matters: fostering stronger, healthier connections.
All listeners can use the code CANDC15 to get 15% off! Head to her website for further information.
Get in touch with Reese
Reesa's Website
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
Visit my website
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Feature as a Guest
If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
In this episode, Melissa shares her journey as a writer, her love for storytelling, and the profound impact her stories have on readers of all ages. As a neurodivergent author, her stories spotlight neurodivergence, fostering understanding and connection through her unique perspective.
Join us as we dive into her creative process, explore the power of storytelling, and celebrate the magic of connection through books.
It's the perfect way to start a new season of thought-provoking conversations!
Get in touch with Melissa
Melissa's Website
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Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
Visit my website
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Feature as a Guest
If you're interested in being a guest o the podcast, I'd love to hear from you. Please fill out the expression of interest form. I look forward to connecting with you.
Until next time, take care.
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with author Teena Raffa-Mulligan to explore her inspiring writing journey. Teena shares how her stories spark imagination, foster connection, and resonate with parents, children, and educators. Don’t miss the audiobook section of the episode that follows Teena’s interview.
You can find more information about Teena ⬇️
Website
Facebook
All listeners can use the code COFFEE to get 10% off! Head to her website to get your copy!
Book Summary
It's been four years since the dark days when Chloe lost her mum to cancer. Nana’s been wonderful but it’s time their family had a mum person. When Dad brings home a special friend Chloe knows immediately that Fern is wrong for the job. She’s in a wheelchair so can’t skate to the shop, turn cartwheels on the lawn or race along the seashore. Chloe will have to be good at being bad to stop Fern joining their family. Or is she making a mistake? What if Fern is the perfect mum for the job?
A warm-hearted story about letting go of limiting expectations and opening up to 'can' rather than 'can't.'
Let’s get into it!
Be a Guest
I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you would like to share your story and feature in an episode, please complete an expression of interest form.
Supporting Others
Here at Chalk and Coffee, we are all about supporting each other as parents, teachers, and anyone else who wants to help children thrive. One way I am trying to do that is by supporting new and early-career teachers.
Stay Connected
Please find all the information below to stay in the loop and join the Nurture Connect Play Community!
Visit my website
Find me on Instagram
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Find me on TikTok