Unlocking Stories Podcast
Welcome to Unlocking Stories — a gentle, sensory-friendly podcast made especially for children who feel big feelings in a big world. 💛
Each short episode features calming narration, comforting affirmations, and relatable stories that help kids navigate emotions, build self-awareness, and feel seen....
Recent Episodes
June 25, 2025
Leo and the Loud Day
A story about big feelings, brave moments, and finding calm inside.Welcome to the very first episode of Unlocking Stories — a sensory-friendly podcast created with love for children who feel the world just a little more deeply.In this episode, we meet Leo, a 7-year-old boy who loves clouds, soft sounds, and quiet corners. But today… everything feels too loud.From slamming doors to buzzing classrooms and flashing lights, Leo becomes overwhelmed by all the noise and energy around him.But L
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Recent Blog Posts
June 27, 2025
Unlocking Connection: The Story That Opened Our Hearts
Episode 1 Recap – Unlocking Stories PodcastThis week on Unlocking Stories, we launched more than a podcast — we launched a movement.In our very first episode, we explored how storytelling can be both a bridge and a mirror. A brid…
About the Host
Kendra McDowell
Meet Kendra McDowell
Welcome to Unlocking Stories! I'm Kendra, a home care provider, midlife mom, and passionate storyteller dedicated to creating meaningful daytime adventures for kids and families on unique journeys.
My background as a child life volunteer at Hershey's Children's Hospital opened my eyes to the incredible power of storytelling to help children process emotions, build resilience, and find joy during challenging times. Through Premier Health and Human Services, I've seen firsthand how the right support and resources can transform lives.
"Unlocking Stories" was born from my belief that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they hear – especially kids with unique needs who are often overlooked by mainstream media. These daytime tales are perfect for car rides, quiet time, or whenever your little ones need an engaging story that celebrates differences and builds confidence.
When I'm not behind the microphone, you'll find me out here being the most boring mom ever, navigating midlife parenthood, running, jamming to everything from Luther Vandross to Olivia Rodrigo, or testing new audio equipment to achieve the perfect sound.
My mission is simple: to unlock the stories that matter, create community connections, and remind every listener that their journey – however unique – is worthy of celebration.
Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Pandora
Kendra McDowell
Host & Creator, Unlocking Stories
Welcome to Unlocking Stories! I'm Kendra, a home care provider, midlife mom, and passionate storyteller dedicated to creating meaningful daytime adventures for kids and families on unique journeys.
My background as a child life volunteer at Hershey's Children's Hospital opened my eyes to the incredible power of storytelling to help children process emotions, build resilience, and find joy during challenging times. Through Premier Health and Human Services, I've seen firsthand how the right support and resources can transform lives.
"Unlocking Stories" was born from my belief that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they hear – especially kids with unique needs who are often overlooked by mainstream media. These daytime tales are perfect for car rides, quiet time, or whenever your little ones need an engaging story that celebrates differences and builds confidence.
When I'm not behind the microphone, you'll find me out here being the most boring mom ever, navigating midlife parenthood, running, jamming to everything from Luther Vandross to Olivia Rodrigo, or testing new audio equipment to achieve the perfect sound.
My mission is simple: to unlock the stories that matter, create community connections, and remind every listener that their journey – however unique – is worthy of celebration.
Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Pandora
Kendra McDowell
Host & Creator, Unlocking Stories