Chalk and Coffee

This week on Chalk and Coffee, I chat with Daisy Jo Bear — author of a magical picture book where a scrappy green fairy helps clean up the environment, rescues a dog, and maybe even mend a broken heart.

We explore how her story came to life, how books can open conversations about grief, friendship, and care for the planet — and why a little fairy mischief might be just what we all need.

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This week on Chalk and Coffee, I sit down with the amazing Kylee Leota — educator, facilitator, and founder of Elements 4 Success.

Kylee brings a wealth of knowledge from her time in education leadership and now works across sectors to support sustainable behaviour change, confidence building, and purposeful living.

We talk about what it takes to create change — not just in schools, but in people’s lives — and how the right tools (...

In this episode, I chat with Cath McPhillips — a brilliant educator who’s experienced it all: classroom teaching, support roles, and working across both public and private sectors.

Cath opens up about the challenges and joys of each teaching environment, how she’s stayed grounded through the shifts, and what matters most when building connection and impact in any role.

Whether you’re teaching in a school, leading a team, or men...

I continue my chat with Charlotte Sharp—a highly qualified counsellor, coach, clinical supervisor, and trainer with a wealth of experience working with adults and teens who have experienced trauma and are neurodivergent.

Charlotte is passionate about supporting individuals on their healing journey and equipping caregivers with the skills they need to provide trauma-informed care. She also works closely with residential children's c...

In this episode of Chalk and Coffee, I’m joined by Charlotte Sharp—a highly qualified counsellor, coach, clinical supervisor, and trainer with a wealth of experience working with adults and teens who have experienced trauma and are neurodivergent.

Charlotte is passionate about supporting individuals on their healing journey and equipping caregivers with the skills they need to provide trauma-informed care. She also works closely wi...

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 Sonh...

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 ...

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 ...

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...

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.

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 readin...

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...

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 perf...

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% ...

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 gu...

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 stra...

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 lis...

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!

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I love hearing people’s stories and would love to have you as a guest. If you woul...