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
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
Instagram
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
Find me on Facebook
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
Instagram
Facebook
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
Find me on Facebook
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
Instagram
TikTok
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
Find me on Facebook
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
Instagram
Facebook
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with Leslie Kuny, a professional dance teacher, choreographer, adjudicator, and dance studio owner with over 20 years of experience working with and mentoring kids. Leslie shares how her love for education and dance led her to create a unique teaching approach that prioritises meaningful, lasting connections with her students.
She talks about rejecting outdated norms of shame and guilt in dance education and how she has instead built successful, competitive artists through honesty, joy, laughter, and encouragement. Leslie also opens up about her human-first teaching philosophy, which centres on trust, humour, and genuine connection to help young dancers thrive on and off the stage.
This is an inspiring conversation about how the arts can empower and transform young lives. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply passionate about creative expression, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas and inspiration for fostering connection and growth in the next generation.
Get in touch with Leslie
Leslie’s Website
Absolute Motion Website
Leslie Instagram
Absolute Motion Studio Instagram
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
Wednesday Nov 13, 2024
In this episode, I am joined by Tala Hershey a speech pathologist practicing in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. She is the owner of Hershey Therapy Practice, a paediatric private practice serving New York and Connecticut as well as Hershey Speech & Language Coaching, extending its coaching services to parents worldwide. Tala specialises in toddler language development and coaching for parents to learn research-based strategies to boost their toddlers' language for toddler’s who present with expressive language difficulties. Her favourite role of all is being the mother of two wild and loveable boys, ages 3 and 1.
Let’s get into it!
Get in touch with Tala
To learn more about Tala or access the free guide we discussed in today’s episode, using the links below.
Facebook Group
Instagram
Parent Guide
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
In this episode, Michelle De Robillard, a published children’s book author, joins me to discuss her book Maisy and Daisy Move House. This book includes themes of inclusivity, disability and accessibility. I recommend checking it out! Don’t miss the audiobook section of the episode that follows Michelle’s interview.
You can find more information about Michelle ⬇️
Website
Instagram @berrybeepublishing
TikTok @Berry.bee.95
All listeners can use the code COFFEE to get 10% off! Head to her website to get your copy!
Book Summary
Maisy and her wheelchair Daisy are moving to a new home with new access barriers to navigate. Join them as they roam their home, find their room and rush to their favourite place.
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
In this episode, I use my experience as an educator and a parent to illuminate the crucial roles of educators and parents in nurturing and supporting children's development and growth. I also explore the power of collaboration and how these roles intersect and share strategies for establishing effective partnerships.
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
Find me on Facebook
Find me on TikTok