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What happens when an illustrator channels courage, mental health, and a 600-year-old sarcastic snowman into a single powerful story? In this inspiring conversation, The Snowman Code illustrator Reggie Brown reveals how he transformed a charming seasonal narrative into a visually rich, emotionally resonant world—and how his own life experiences shaped every brushstroke.

If you’re an educator, caregiver, librarian, picture-book lover, or emerging illustrator, this episode offers a masterclass in storytelling through art, navigating big feelings with creativity, and following unexpected paths into meaningful work.

In Episode 166, Dr. Diane sits down with illustrator Reggie Brown, whose artwork elevates The Snowman Code—a winter story that tackles seasonal depression, parentification, courage, and connection. Reggie shares how he intuitively designs characters like Blessing and Albert and how he transitioned from biotech to bestselling illustrator after a life-changing moment during the pandemic.

Listeners also get a sneak peek at Reggie’s upcoming 2026 projects, including Walk the Walk and Do You See Me?, plus a heartwarming story of hope, family, and the Star Wars–themed Christmas surprise that changed his life forever.

00:27 – Designing a Story Beyond Snowflakes

03:41 – Illustrating Mental Health with Care

04:39 – From Biotech to Books: Reggie’s Unconventional Path

07:00 – Comics, Storytelling, and Illustration Craft

07:54 – A Lifelong Sci-Fi Fan

09:06 – Books You Should Know

11:15 – What’s Coming in 2026?

13:10 – What Makes a Manuscript Irresistible

13:47 – A New Source of Hope

Connect with Reggie Brown on Website, Instagram and LinkedIn

Check out Reggie's Books: The Snowman Code, Magnificent Makers, Santa and the City, Bros, Little Big Man, Who Are Your People?, Walk the Walk , Do You See Me?

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*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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Just in time for the holidays, we whisk away on a cozy, magical journey through the enchanting world of The Snowman Code with Simon Stephenson. Warm yourself with this comfortable conversation about friendship, mental health, inner strength, and the transformative power of empathy as Simon shares the creative process behind his debut middle grade novel.

Summary

This week on the Adventures in Learning, Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes author Simon Stephenson, who unveils the American publication of his debut middle-grade realistic fantasy The Snowman Code. Simon shares his journey from being a children's doctor to writing for films like Luca and Paddington 2. Discover how his experiences with foster care children influenced The Snowman Code, a story about friendship, magic, empathy, resilience, depression, and finding your inner strength. We explore Simon's familial inspirations for the pompous and loving Albert the Snowman. Learn more about the artistic brilliance of illustrator Reggie Brown, whose rich multicultural illustrations add depth and unexpected surprises into this heartwarming story. Plus we envision how the book translates into a potential cinematic adaptation.

Timestamps:

01:02: The Author Behind The Snowman Code

03:26:Blessing, Foster Care, Trauma, and Resilience

07:28:Familial Origins of Albert the Snowman

12:20:Themes of Empathy, Kindness, Compassion, and Sacrifice

15:30:UK Reaction to The Snowman Code

18:21:Exploring the Insightful, Layered Illustrations of Reggie Brown

20:43:Imagining The Film Version

23:52:What Brings You Hope?

Links:

Purchase The Snowman Code

Follow Simon Stephenson on Instagram

Discover more about Illustrator Reggie Brown

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

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Unwrap the joy of the holiday season with Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch as they sprinkle holiday magic in every episode of their Dear Santa Podcast! This magical podcast crossover takes us on a festive journey filled with storytelling, traditions, and a direct line to the North Pole. Whether you're curious about the enchanting travels of Christmas trees or eager to hear from Santa himself, this episode is your ticket to a merry adventure!

Summary:

Dive into the festive world of Jason M. Burns and Kate Kasch, the creative minds behind the Dear Santa Podcast. Since its debut in July 2025, this podcast has become a cherished companion for holiday enthusiasts. This podcast takes you from timeless traditions to the latest in holiday music and films -- and even includes a Destination Christmas series that showcases the nation's most festive towns. From personalized ornaments to extravagant home decorations, Jason and Kate's seasonal adventures inspire joy and togetherness. Don't miss their special connection with Santa Claus, who answers listener questions and shares North Pole secrets! BONUS On my crossover episode with the Dear Santa Podcast, we talked about holiday books and traditions to help families and children with anticipation, waiting, empathy, and kindness during this festive season. Download the recommended books here.

Chapters:

01:01: It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas -- Origins of the Dear Santa Podcast

09:37 - Holiday Traditions, 12 Cookies of Christmas, and a Direct Link to the North Pole

17:32 - Reflecting on Hope in the Holiday Season

Links

• Listen to the Dear Santa Podcast
• Episode 11: Classroom Connections featuring Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor
• Download the Holiday Books Dr. Diane suggested
• Send your questions for Santa
• Follow the Dear Santa Podcast on Instagram and LinkedIn

Thank you for joining us on this magical journey with our friends at the Dear Santa Podcast. We wish you a joyful holiday season filled with laughter, love, and festive cheer. Ho ho ho!

Support the show

Subscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

*Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.