Vindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being You

The Lil' Leaders Podcast

In today's episode, we meet a talented and inspiring young guest named Vindhy! She loves Bollywood dancing, gymnastics, and singing. With a big dream of becoming a singer someday, she shares how being recognized as Student of the Month taught her the value of listening and learning from others. She also loves reading and believes being true to yourself means knowing how to say no to things that don’t feel right for you. Get ready to hear her story, her advice, and how she’s already shining bright while staying true to herself!

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Once Upon A Book

Author & Illustrator: Grace Lin & Kate Messner

A modern folktale about the joy of reading.

Once upon a time, there was a girl. She went to a place alive with colors, where even the morning dew was warm.

Alice loves to imagine herself in the magical pages of her favorite book. So when it flaps its pages and invites her in, she is swept away to a world of wonder and adventure, riding camels in the desert, swimming under the sea with colorful fish, floating in outer space, and more! But when her imaginative journey comes to an end, she yearns for the place she loves best of all. Paired with vibrant illustrations, this lyrical, expressive story invites the reader to savor each page and indulge in the power of imagination.

b. My Bollywood Dream

Author & Illustrator: Avani Dwivedi

It’s Friday night, and on the bustling streets of Mumbai, a girl heads out with her family to the cinema. As she rides through the winding blocks with her maa, baba, and bhai, old melodies fill the car. And as she captures the sights and sounds of the city with her camera, she imagines a movie unfolding before her eyes. A choreographed dance sequence atop a long line of cars! When they arrive at the screening, the room is abuzz with people from all walks of life, waiting to lose themselves in the show. And finally comes the best part: time for everyone to jump up and dance! First-time author-illustrator Avani Dwivedi offers a buoyant, whimsically illustrated love letter to Mumbai and Bollywood—and to children everywhere eager to take mastery of their dreams.

Cool Q's For Discussion:

1. How can you be a better listener? Why does Vindhy feel listening is important?

2. What does it mean to be true to yourself? How can you say no to things you don’t like?

3. If you want to follow your dreams, how can you find help like Vindhy did with her brother?

4. How can you try new things while still doing what you already love?

5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Vindhy?

Have a great week!

Keep Leading and Keep Reading,

Tina