Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station

About Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station

Welcome to Nanny Nikki's imagination station a magical story time that was inspired by moments that started at recess as a pre-K teacher. What began as reading stories to my students turned into a world of imagination, laughter, learning, and adventure. Join me, Nanny Nikki for cozy storytimes, fun conversations, and magical moments perfect for bedtime, car rides, classrooms, and little imaginations everywhere.

Publisher

Nicole Wasilishin

Category

kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

15 May 2026

Latest episode

15 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Oct 2026

   Remember Our Roots Day

   Beneath an old Palo Verde tree in Cave Creek, a magical world is losing its color. Roots crumble into dust. A stream has fallen silent. And in Rose and Camille’s hands are two tiny seeds that will only bloom when their town remembers. 🚂 All aboard Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station, Episode 14: Remember Our Roots Day! To help Cedar’s fading world, the girls must carry their adventure aboveground—and give their whole community a reason to care. With Ms. Nikki and Ms. Cassie, they plan a celebration at historic Harold’s Cave Creek Corral to support the Cave Creek Museum. Old photographs. Stories from grandparents. Music, lemonade, and little coins clinking into a hand-painted donation jar. Every memory shared could help something magical grow. 🌸 But when the festival opens, almost nobody comes. Then an old car pulls into the parking lot… and a familiar face brings a little unexpected sparkle. This imaginary adventure includes a fictional visit from Dick Van Dyke, woven together with real Cave Creek history! ✨ And just when the girls think their adventure is finished, music drifts from a mysterious new tunnel—and someone shouts, “WHO STOLE MY MICROPHONE?” 🎤👀 Some doors open because we’re curious. This one opened because two children cared. 💛 Behind these adventures is a real local Cave Creek teacher: me, Nikki. My stories are inspired by the children I work with every day. Many of the characters are real children in my class, included with their parents’ permission. Their questions, friendships, and enormous imaginations help bring Nanny Nikki’s world to life. Come meet Nanny Nikki at the Cave Creek Museum this Saturday, October 17, during the 1–4 p.m. family event! I’ll be reading The Hidden Library and sharing some of the history that inspires our adventures. Bring your children, invite a friend, and come support your local teacher and museum. 📖🌵 🚂✨ Where turning the page is just the beginning!

2. 

   11 Sept 2026

   The Door Beyond The Library

   EPISODE 13: THE DOOR BEYOND THE LIBRARY The bronze door beneath the old Palo Verde tree has disappeared. Days become weeks. Weeks become months. Arlo and Olive begin to wonder whether the Hidden Library of Cave Creek—and their journey back to 1885—might have been nothing more than a shared dream. But magic has not disappeared. It is only waiting. One golden afternoon, when Rose and Camille are the last two children waiting to be picked up from aftercare, a mysterious glow begins curling around the roots of the old Palo Verde tree. Then comes a click. The bronze door has returned. Miss Nikki, Miss Cassie, Rose, and Camille descend the winding stone staircase and follow the tunnel back toward the Hidden Library—but something has changed. The tunnel no longer ends at Archie’s door. It continues deeper beneath Cave Creek, where flowering vines cover the walls and a second magical doorway waits for them. On the other side lies a breathtaking secret world: the Cave Creek beneath Cave Creek. There, beneath a sky filled with sunlight, moonlight, and stars all at once, they meet Cedar—a towering Ent whose body is made of bark and moss, whose beard is made of vines, and whose voice sounds like wind moving through ancient branches. Cedar reveals that this hidden valley is in danger. Its flowers are wilting. Its streams are drying. Its enormous roots are turning gray and crumbling into dust—all because people are beginning to forget the history, stories, land, and natural beauty of the real Cave Creek. Can Rose, Camille, Miss Nikki, and Miss Cassie help save the hidden valley—and perhaps all of Cave Creek with it? Our adventure is only beginning. TO BE CONTINUED… MEET NANNY NIKKI IN PERSON! On October 17, Nanny Nikki will make her very first public appearance at the Cave Creek Museum! This is more than an event for me. It is the first time I will introduce Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station to my own community and bring this dream out from behind the microphone and into the real world. Please come support your favorite Pre-K TA, meet Nanny Nikki, celebrate the magic and history of Cave Creek, and help make this little storyteller’s very big dream come true. Choo-choo, friends! All aboard Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station—where turning the page is just the beginning!

3. 

   30 Aug 2026

   The Hungry Toilet

   Something magical has escaped from the Hidden Library—and this time, it has found the preschool bathroom. In this completely original Nanny Nikki adventure, an ordinary morning at school takes a very unusual turn when a mysterious growl echoes from behind the bathroom door. Did the toilet just…growl? Miss Nikki knows exactly what is happening. Ever since she, Miss Cassie, Arlo, and Olive discovered the Hidden Library beneath the old palo verde tree, its magic has been slipping into the world above—transforming ordinary places into extraordinary adventures. When the classroom toilet suddenly becomes very hungry, Miss Nikki does what teachers do best: she turns something frightening into a wonderfully silly game. But while the other children are excited to feed the Hungry Toilet, shy little Sabine is still afraid. The toilet seat feels cold. The flushing is loud. And sometimes she worries she won’t make it in time. With patience, laughter, and a little Hidden Library magic, Sabine learns an important lesson: Brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared. Brave means trying anyway. Filled with growling, creaking, flushing—and one extremely satisfied burp—The Hungry Toilet is a funny, magical story about potty learning, overcoming fears, and discovering that everyone learns at their own speed. But one mystery remains… Is the magic really escaping from the Hidden Library—or is the library trying to get their attention? The Hungry Toilet is a Nanny Nikki Original, written, performed, recorded, edited, and produced by Nikki Wasilishin. I struggled with whether to place my original stories behind a subscription paywall. Ultimately, I want children and families to enjoy both beloved classic stories and Nanny Nikki’s original adventures together for free. To help make that possible, Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station is currently seeking family-friendly sponsors—especially businesses in Cave Creek, Carefree, North Scottsdale, and the surrounding Arizona communities. Sponsorships can include a warm, personalized, host-read message introducing your business to the wonderful grownups listening alongside their children. Every partnership helps me continue writing, recording, producing, and sharing these adventures without placing the stories themselves behind a paywall. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact: NicoleWasilishin@gmail.com (mailto:NicoleWasilishin@gmail.com) ☕ Wonderful grownups, if you enjoyed today’s adventure and would like to help me keep these stories free for every family, you can buy Nanny Nikki a coffee here: https://cash.app/$NicoleWasilishin (https://cash.app/$NicoleWasilishin) Every contribution helps support the writing, recording, sound effects, equipment, and production behind Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station. Thank you for helping me keep the train moving. Choo choo, friends! Climb aboard Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station—where storytime and turning the page are just the beginning. 🚂

4. 

   24 Aug 2026

   The Little Red Hen

   Choo-choo!, friends! This week, our Imagination Station is traveling through the countryside to visit a little farm—and one extremely hardworking hen. 🚂🐔🌾 When the Little Red Hen discovers several tiny grains of wheat, she immediately sees what they could become. But planting, watering, harvesting, milling, mixing, kneading, and baking are a lot of work—and every time she asks her friends for help, she receives the same answer: “Not I!” The sleepy cat is too comfortable in the sunshine. The duck would rather splash in the pond. And the pig is far too busy doing what he does best: eating. But when the smell of warm, freshly baked bread begins floating through the farmhouse, suddenly everybody is ready to help! This classic story introduces young listeners to responsibility, cooperation, perseverance, and the importance of helping with the work—not simply appearing when it is time to enjoy the reward. Because things always taste a little sweeter when everybody helps make them. 🍞❤️ This episode is perfect for: • bedtime• classroom listening• quiet time• car rides• family story time• children learning about teamwork and responsibility• anyone who loves freshly baked bread And before our train leaves the station, I have some exciting news—and a very big thank-you for all the parents, teachers, caregivers, and little listeners supporting this show. Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station reached No. 130 on Apple’s Kids & Family: Stories chart and remained on the chart for more than a week! That is absolutely incredible for this little independent podcast, and it happened because families like yours listened, followed, shared the show, and continued climbing aboard. Within its first three months, our podcast was also featured in our local newspaper, the Cave Creek/Carefree Independent. Seeing a show inspired by story time with my preschool students recognized by the community that helped create it was an incredibly special moment. You can read the article here: Cave Creek teacher makes storytime podcast for students - Cave Creek / Carefree Independent (https://www.yourvalley.net/cave-creek-carefree-independent/stories/cave-creek-teacher-makes-story-time-podcast-for-students,705460) Now I have one small favor to ask. I am currently 76 Spotify followers away from becoming eligible to activate subscriptions for this show. Subscriptions would allow me to offer families exclusive stories and bonus content while beginning to earn a little income from the many hours I spend writing, recording, editing, and producing these adventures. If you use Spotify, please follow Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station. Following is completely free, but every new follower brings this little podcast one step closer to becoming sustainable. Follow Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5ooZH22U6cBeohp7UwARnL?si=039742abb91146d8) Thank you for supporting independent children’s storytelling, sharing these adventures with your little listeners, and helping our train travel farther than I ever imagined it could. Now find yourself a cozy spot, get that imagination ready, and climb aboard for The Little Red Hen—where turning the page is just the beginning. 🚂✨

5. 

   8 Aug 2026

   The Velveteen Rabbit

   Choo-choo, friends! All aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station... where turning the page is just the beginning! This week, we're opening the pages of a story that has been making children—and grown-ups—feel all the feelings for more than 100 years: The Velveteen Rabbit. Meet Bunny: a soft little velveteen rabbit who arrives one Christmas morning looking absolutely perfect. But in a world filled with flashing toys, talking robots, roaring dinosaurs, video games, and gadgets, a quiet stuffed rabbit doesn't seem very exciting at first. Until one night, a little boy needs something to cuddle. And everything changes. ❤️ Soon Bunny isn't sitting forgotten on a shelf anymore. He's sleeping under blankets, riding in the car, building forts, exploring imaginary jungles, captaining cardboard spaceships, and being squeezed just a little too tightly every night. And slowly, all that love begins to leave its mark. His fur wears thin. His whiskers disappear. His nose fades. One ear bends. He even develops one of those mysterious stains that nobody remembers putting there. But Bunny is happier than he's ever been. Because with the help of the wise old Skin Horse, he's beginning to understand one very important question: ✨ What does it mean to be real? ✨ Originally written by Margery Williams and published in 1922, The Velveteen Rabbit has been loved by generations of children. For this adventure, I've gently brought parts of the story into the world today's kids recognize while keeping the beautiful heart of the original exactly where it belongs: love is what makes something truly special. And because this is the Imagination Station, we don't just finish the story and hop away! 🐇 Afterward, we'll discover what "velveteen" actually is, talk about why favorite stuffed animals can make us feel safe, learn how medicine has changed since 1922, and explore why one worn-out, crooked-eared, questionable-looking stuffie can somehow be more precious than every shiny new toy in the world. Because more than a century later, some things haven't changed at all. Kids still imagine. Kids still need comfort. And kids still drag that ONE beloved stuffed animal absolutely everywhere. 😂❤️ And there is something extra exciting happening at the station right now... 📰 Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station made the newspaper! The Cave Creek Carefree Independent recently featured the story of this little podcast—how something that began with story time for my students grew into Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station. Seeing our adventures recognized right here in the Cave Creek community that inspires so many of them means more to me than I can possibly say. Read the Cave Creek Carefree Independent feature (https://www.yourvalley.net/cave-creek-carefree-independent/stories/cave-creek-teacher-makes-story-time-podcast-for-students,705460?utm_source=chatgpt.com) So grab your favorite stuffie (yes, even the one missing an eye), find somewhere cozy, and climb aboard. And when tonight's adventure is over, give that old stuffed friend an extra squeeze. Because according to the Skin Horse... They might already be real. 🐰❤️✨ 🚂 Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station Where turning the page is just the beginning.

6. 

   5 Jul 2026

   The Lost Mapmaker

   Journey back to the Arizona Territory in the year 1885, where history isn't locked away inside a museum—it's alive, waiting to be discovered. When Ms. Nikki, Ms. Cassie, Arlo, and Olive step through the pages of a magical book hidden inside the mysterious Hidden Library beneath their school, they find themselves stranded in a world that looks nothing like the Cave Creek they know. Black Mountain stands alone above an endless desert. Mining camps glow beneath the evening sky. Canvas tents, wagons, horses, and campfires stretch across the landscape, while the distant howl of a coyote reminds them they're hundreds of years—or at least it feels that way—from home. With no cell service, no way back, and only a mysterious voice calling for help across the desert, the four explorers must follow the clues into the unknown. Their journey leads them through the earliest days of Cave Creek, where they discover what life was really like before Arizona became a state, why prospectors came searching for gold, how the creek gave Cave Creek its name, and why the future of the desert would ultimately depend on something far more valuable than gold... water. Following the mysterious voice, they discover an injured mapmaker named Thomas Bartlett, a man whose dream of understanding the Verde River sets him apart from every other miner around him. While everyone else is searching for treasure beneath the ground, Thomas is searching for a future no one else can yet imagine. As Ms. Nikki and her young explorers help him find his way back, they begin to realize they may have become part of a remarkable piece of Arizona history. But the adventure is only beginning. A hand-drawn map... a tiny Palo Verde tree... and a hidden doorway beneath the desert reveal that the magic of the Hidden Library has been quietly connected to Cave Creek's past all along. As the friends race to find their way home, they uncover a breathtaking secret that changes the way they look at history forever. Blending authentic local history with imagination, mystery, and adventure, The Lost Mapmaker transforms real people, real places, and real events into an unforgettable journey that encourages children to see their own hometown through new eyes. From Black Mountain to the Verde River, from the first mining camps to the story behind Bartlett Dam, this magical adventure celebrates the people, dreams, and moments that helped shape the community we know today. Because history isn't just something we read about... Sometimes it's hiding beneath our feet, waiting for someone curious enough to turn the next page. 🚂 All aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station... where turning the page is just the beginning.

7. 

   3 Jul 2026

   The Boy Who Cried "VIRAL"

   Once upon a time, there was a little shepherd who cried, "Wolf!" More than 2,600 years later... He has a smartphone. Welcome aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station, where timeless stories meet today's world in magical new ways. In this modern retelling of the beloved classic fable The Boy Who Cried Wolf, meet Liam—a creative, funny, and imaginative boy who dreams of becoming the next big internet star. Every afternoon after school, he props up his phone, presses the LIVE button, and hopes today will be the day his videos finally take off. At first, only a handful of people watch. But when Liam discovers that dramatic titles, wild stories, and pretend emergencies bring in thousands of viewers, it's hard to resist chasing just one more viral moment. One livestream turns into another. His followers grow. His videos spread across the internet. Before long, everyone knows Liam... But not everyone believes him. When a real emergency suddenly unfolds, Liam learns that likes, views, and followers can disappear in an instant—but trust is something much harder to earn back. Inspired by one of the world's oldest and most treasured fables, The Boy Who Cried "Viral" brings Aesop's timeless lesson into the modern world of smartphones, livestreams, notifications, and social media. Children will laugh at Liam's silly adventures, cheer for his courage, and discover that honesty, kindness, and integrity are worth far more than internet fame. After the story, we'll journey beyond the pages of the book to discover the fascinating history of Aesop's famous fables, learn not one but two Words of the Day, and explore how a story first told thousands of years ago is just as meaningful in today's digital world as it was in ancient Greece. We'll learn what a fable really is, what it means when something goes viral, and why every truthful choice we make helps build something incredibly important—our reputation. Whether your child dreams of becoming a YouTuber, an astronaut, a teacher, an artist, or anything else they can imagine, this episode reminds us that the greatest adventures begin with honesty, the strongest friendships are built on trust, and our words have the power to help—or to hurt. Thank you to one of our wonderful Nanny Nikki parents for requesting this classic story! I absolutely loved taking an ancient fable and giving it a brand-new adventure for today's generation. It just goes to show that the very best stories never grow old—they simply find new ways to be told. So put down the distractions, gather the whole family, and climb aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station. Because followers may come and go... Views may rise and fall... But a good name, an honest heart, and people who trust you... Those are treasures that will last a lifetime. And as always, friends... Turning the page is just the beginning.

8. 

   23 Jun 2026

   The Hidden Library

   Beneath an ancient Palo Verde tree, hidden deep beneath the playground of a small school in Cave Creek, Arizona, a secret has been waiting for hundreds of years. When best friends Arlo and Olive discover a mysterious bronze door buried beneath the roots, what begins as an ordinary afternoon quickly becomes the adventure of a lifetime. Joined by Ms. Nikki and Ms. Cassie, the young explorers follow a glowing staircase into the earth and uncover something far more extraordinary than an old gold mine. Behind a magical wooden door lies the Hidden Library of Cave Creek — a place where books float through the air, crystals sparkle like stars, and golden roots weave stories through the walls. It is a place where history breathes, memories glow, and every book holds a living adventure waiting to be discovered. There they meet Archie, a wise old owl librarian with golden eyes, tiny spectacles, and a very important responsibility: protecting the stories, maps, memories, and secrets hidden deep beneath the Arizona desert. As Archie reveals the mystery of the library, Arlo and Olive learn that the roots of the great Palo Verde tree connect the stories of everyone who helped shape Cave Creek long ago. Miners searching for gold. Ranchers building new lives. Families hoping for a fresh start. Dreamers, explorers, and pioneers whose stories have been carefully preserved for generations. But these are no ordinary books. You don't simply read them. You enter them. When a mysterious book called The History of Cave Creek chooses Ms. Nikki, Ms. Cassie, Arlo, and Olive, they discover that some stories are impatient to be told. Before they can stop it, a swirling burst of golden magic pulls them into the pages of history and sends them hurtling back to the year 1885. Suddenly, the modern world is gone. The school has vanished. The playground has disappeared. And the adventure is only just beginning. Now stranded in a time long before the Cave Creek they know today, our explorers must uncover the truth behind a mysterious voice calling for help from inside the story itself. Who is calling to them across time? Why does the Hidden Library need their help? Will they meet miners searching for gold in the desert hills? And most importantly... Will they ever find their way back home? Filled with friendship, mystery, Arizona history, and a touch of desert magic, The Hidden Library is the first chapter in an all-new Nanny Nikki Original adventure series inspired by the rich history of Cave Creek, Arizona. Join Ms. Nikki, Ms. Cassie, Arlo, Olive, and Archie the owl as they journey into a living story where history isn't something you read about... It's something you experience. So grab your explorer hat, follow the glowing roots, and climb aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station. The pages are turning. The past is calling. And the adventure is only just beginning.

9. 

   14 Jun 2026

   The Boy who wrote to NASA

   What if one letter could change your whole world? On the very last week of school, while children all around the classroom wrote letters to zoos, aquariums, and museums, one little boy named Cody decided to aim much higher. Armed with a pencil, a piece of paper, and a dream bigger than the Arizona sky, Cody wrote a letter to NASA. He had three important questions. Is there life somewhere else in our solar system? Can students go to the moon? And most importantly... Could NASA please pick him for Artemis III? What begins as a simple classroom project soon becomes an extraordinary adventure filled with rockets, astronauts, moon missions, friendship, courage, and the power of believing in yourself. As the days of summer drift by, Cody waits and wonders if anyone at NASA will write back. But when a mysterious envelope arrives with the NASA logo stamped across the front, everything changes. Inspired by one of the wonderful students from Nanny Nikki's classroom, The Boy Who Wrote to NASA is a heartwarming original story about curiosity, determination, and dreaming without limits. Along the way, little listeners will discover that every astronaut was once a child asking questions, every great adventure begins with a single step, and sometimes the bravest thing we can do is believe that our dreams matter. Filled with wonder, laughter, imagination, and a little bit of moon dust magic, this unforgettable journey reminds children that no dream is too big, no question is too small, and the stars may be closer than they think. Because somewhere beyond the clouds, beyond the atmosphere, and beyond the moon itself, an adventure is waiting for those brave enough to chase it. And for Cadet Cody, the countdown has already begun. T-minus one year to launch. T-minus one year to the moon. T-minus one dream coming true. A Nanny Nikki Original inspired by the amazing children who fill my classroom with curiosity, imagination, and wonder every single day. And who knows? If you listen carefully, you just might hear a rocket preparing for liftoff.

10. 

    14 Jun 2026

    Goldilocks and the Three Bears

    Step through a hidden woodland path and into a cozy little cabin deep in the heart of an enchanted forest, where three bears live a peaceful life filled with warm oatmeal, comfy chairs, fluffy beds, and quiet mornings together. But when a curious little girl named Goldilocks stumbles upon their home, an ordinary day becomes an unforgettable adventure. Follow along as Goldilocks discovers bowls of porridge, chairs of every size, and the coziest bed she has ever seen. Along the way, little listeners will laugh, wonder, and learn important lessons about curiosity, choices, and respecting the belongings of others. This magical retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears brings new life to one of the world's most beloved fairy tales. After the story, we'll travel beyond the pages of the book to discover surprising facts about its history, learn a brand-new word of the day, and even uncover how this classic tale inspired a real scientific concept that helps astronomers search the stars for worlds beyond our own. Perfect for bedtime, quiet time, classroom listening, or family story time, this episode is filled with imagination, learning, laughter, and a touch of fairy-tale magic. And before our train leaves the station, I have a special surprise to share. Our next adventure will be a brand-new Nanny Nikki Original inspired by one of the wonderful children in my classroom. What begins as a little boy's letter to NASA soon becomes an extraordinary journey filled with dreams, determination, rockets, and possibilities that reach far beyond the clouds. You won't just reach for the stars in this story. You might make it all the way to the moon. Pun absolutely intended. A quick note from Nanny Nikki: Thank you for being patient while we took a short break from the station. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of adventures, including a very special speaking event in front of hundreds of people before heading right back to my preschool classroom. Last weekend, I took some much-needed time to rest and recharge, but now the station is open once again, and I can't wait to share more stories with all of you. So grab your favorite blanket, snuggle in close, and climb aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station, where turning the page is just the beginning.

11. 

    24 May 2026

    Jake's Story

    Some stories are fairy tales. And some stories are real. Tonight’s episode of Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station is one of the most personal stories I’ve shared so far because this one isn’t based on an old book or a classic tale passed down through generations. This one is true. Tonight, you’re meeting Jake. Jake is a giant Mastiff with massive paws, a thunderous bark, a stubborn personality, and one of the softest hearts I have ever known. But before Jake became part of our family here in Cave Creek, he spent three long years sitting inside an animal rescue waiting for somebody to finally choose him. Three years. Three years of watching other dogs leave while he stayed behind. Three years without a single adoption application. And because this story is told from Jake’s point of view, listeners get to experience what the world may have felt like through the eyes of a dog who was constantly misunderstood. A dog labeled “too big,” “too loud,” “too stubborn,” and “too difficult” simply because he wanted freedom, adventure, patience, and love. This episode honestly became emotional for me while recording it because Jake is not just a character. Jake is my real dog. My family really did adopt him from a rescue after years of him being overlooked. And today, that same giant dog who once sat alone in a kennel now has his own room, his own bed, a backyard to patrol, a doggy pool, and an entire family that would do absolutely anything for him. I think one of the magical things I’m discovering while creating Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station is that this podcast is becoming so much more than just story time. It’s becoming a universe. A kingdom. A place where imagination, storytelling, animals, comfort, adventure, learning, and emotion all blend together into one giant cozy world. And one of the most beautiful parts of that world is that I get to bring my animals to life in ways we can’t always do in the real world. Through storytelling, they become characters. Heroes. Adventurers. Friends. And listeners slowly get to meet all of them one by one. So yes… if you continue this journey with me, prepare yourself for many more animal stories ahead. Some funny. Some magical. Some chaotic. Some emotional. Some educational. And some very, very real. Because while Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station will absolutely continue sharing classic fairy tales, beloved children’s books, bedtime stories, and educational adventures, it’s also becoming home to original stories that exist only inside the Nanny Nikki universe. Stories inspired by real life. Real animals. Real emotions. Real memories. And very real love. Jake’s story is really about second chances. It’s about misunderstood animals. Patience. Trust. Rescue. Belonging. And the life-changing power of finally being chosen. And honestly… I think a lot of humans know what that feeling is like too. This episode is perfect for: • animal lovers • rescue dog families • emotional bedtime stories • classroom listening • family story time • children learning empathy and compassion • kids who adore dogs • anyone who believes every animal deserves love and a home Thank you so much for listening to another adventure on Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station. This little podcast world is only just beginning, and I genuinely cannot wait to show you where the train tracks lead next. So strap in, friends. Enjoy the ride. And remember… here on Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station, turning the page is just the beginning.

12. 

    23 May 2026

    The Elves and the Shoemaker

    Step into a world of magic, kindness, tiny elves, and candlelit workshops in today’s cozy episode of Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station as we read the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Elves and the Shoemaker. Tonight’s story follows a hardworking shoemaker and his wife who are struggling to survive during a cold winter. Just when it seems like they’ve run out of hope, something magical begins happening in the middle of the night. Each morning, beautifully crafted shoes mysteriously appear on the shoemaker’s workbench, changing their lives forever. But who could possibly be helping them while they sleep? This timeless fairy tale has been loved by families for more than 200 years, and in today’s episode, we don’t just read the story — we explore the fascinating history behind it too. After the story, we talk about: • who the Brothers Grimm really were • how fairy tales were passed down by word of mouth long before books existed • why stories often begin with the words “once upon a time” • what a cobbler actually is • how shoes were handmade long ago before factories and machines • why fairy tales continue surviving generation after generation We also explore the deeper lesson hidden underneath the magic: kindness. The little elves never ask for praise or rewards. They simply see someone struggling and quietly choose to help. And in return, the shoemaker and his wife find a way to give kindness back. One of my favorite parts of creating this podcast is getting to mix storytelling, imagination, history, learning, and comfort all together into one cozy little adventure. My hope is that children listening feel inspired to use their imaginations, ask questions, learn new words, and fall in love with stories the same way I did growing up. And yes… before anyone notices… your girl is a little under the weather while recording this one. I did my absolute best to hide it because I really didn’t want to cancel story time this week. So if my voice sounds a tiny bit extra cozy or raspy in this episode… now you know why. Sometimes the magic of storytelling continues even through sniffles and tea breaks. This episode is perfect for: • bedtime • classroom listening • quiet time • long car rides • homeschool activities • family story time • children who love fairy tales and imagination If your little listener enjoys magical stories, classic fairy tales, bedtime adventures, educational storytelling, or cozy read-aloud podcasts, then you’re in the right place here at Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station. Thank you so much for joining me for another adventure where turning the page is just the beginning. Now snuggle up, get cozy, and let’s believe in a little magic together.

13. 

    17 May 2026

    Dickie Birdie Has Two First Names

    Welcome back aboard Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station — where story time is always just the beginning. Tonight’s story is a very special one because it’s not about witches, pirates, princesses, or magical kingdoms. Its a Nanny Nikki original story. It’s about a very tiny old chihuahua named Dickie Birdie. And yes… that is his real first name. In this cozy, heartfelt story told through the eyes of a sleepy little desert dog with no teeth and two first names, listeners will travel to Cave Creek, Arizona — where the coyotes sing at night, the desert glows warm beneath the sunset, and one tiny old gentleman spends his days supervising podcast recordings, protecting blankets, taking very important naps, and riding through life in a little red stroller like royalty. But Dickie Birdie isn’t just any dog. He’s my best friend. He’s been with me since he was eight weeks old, through different homes, different chapters of life, veterinary hospitals, podcast studios, difficult days, and now even CrimeCon — where, to his complete surprise, hundreds of people somehow knew his name. This story was inspired by getting the suitcases out once again as we prepare to head back to CrimeCon together, where Dickie Birdie will once again ride through crowds of people as the tiny mascot of my podcasting world. Watching him experience these adventures at thirteen years old, with sleepy eyes and tiny legs that don’t work quite like they used to, reminded me that even small, quiet lives can still be full of magic, purpose, comfort, love, and adventure. This episode is gentle, emotional, funny, cozy, and filled with little moments that animal lovers — especially senior dog lovers — will understand deeply. It’s a story about: growing older unconditional love companionship bravery in small packages finding comfort in ordinary moments and how sometimes the tiniest creatures leave the biggest paw prints on our hearts. It’s also a love letter to senior pets everywhere. Dickie Birdie may no longer have teeth, and he may spend most of his day wrapped in blankets judging the world from soft pillows and sunny spots, but he still has adventures to go on, people to meet, and stories to tell. And honestly? He’s kind of becoming famous. If you’d like to support Dickie Birdie and the rest of our little animal family here in hot Arizona — especially as we prepare for another very warm summer and our upcoming CrimeCon travels — we do have an Amazon animal wishlist filled with cooling supplies, pet necessities, comfort items, and goodies for our furry family members as well as the crabby ones. Not kidding! We have hermit crabs here! Animal Wishlist: Thank you for supporting our little family, our storytelling adventures, and this tiny old chihuahua with two first names. And if you happen to see Dickie Birdie rolling through CrimeCon in his stroller this year, please say hello to him. He takes his mascot duties very seriously. Now fluff up your blankets, snuggle in close, and enjoy tonight’s story from one very brave, very sleepy little gentleman named Dickie Birdie.

14. 

    16 May 2026

    Alice Nizzy Nazzy The Witch of Santa Fe

    Welcome aboard Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station — where turning the page is only the beginning. This episode is incredibly special to me because it’s not only our very first official fairy tale episode, it’s also the episode that truly made this podcast feel real. Less than 48 hours before this existed, this was simply lunch recess story time on a playground. By day, I’m Nikki — a pre-K assistant teacher surrounded by tiny humans constantly begging for “just one more story.” Somewhere between the silly voices, spooky whispers, pirate growls, dramatic sound effects, and kids piling closer during the scary parts, another teacher joked that I needed to move story time closer because she wanted to listen too. And honestly? That one little comment sparked this entire idea. This podcast was created to bring the magic of playground story time beyond the classroom walls and into homes, bedtime routines, classrooms, car rides, and wherever imagination happens. For our very first fairy tale episode, we journey into the Southwest with Alice Nizzy Nazzy: The Witch of Santa Fe, written by Tony Johnston and beautifully illustrated by legendary children’s illustrator Tomie dePaola. This spooky, funny Southwestern folk tale is filled with desert magic, witches, talking fences, mystery, humor, Spanish vocabulary, and just enough suspense to make children squeal, giggle, and hide behind their blankets before immediately asking for another story. A huge reason my students love this book so much is because of the incredible illustrations and immersive storytelling. I’m incredibly grateful to both the author and illustrator for creating such a memorable story that became a classroom favorite. This book appears to currently be out of print, but if you’d like to learn more or try to track down a copy, here are a few places to start: Amazon listing: https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Nizzy-Nazzy-Witch-Santa/dp/0399227881 (https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Nizzy-Nazzy-Witch-Santa/dp/0399227881) Paperback edition: https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Nizzy-Nazzy-Tony-Johnston/dp/069811650X (https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Nizzy-Nazzy-Tony-Johnston/dp/069811650X) I also want to give full credit to the magical fantasy music used throughout this episode: “Castle in the Mist – Magical Orchestral” by Geoff Harvey via Pixabay Music. Music link: https://pixabay.com/music/fantasy-dreamy-childrens-castle-in-the-mist-magical-orchestral-388047/ (https://pixabay.com/music/fantasy-dreamy-childrens-castle-in-the-mist-magical-orchestral-388047/) After the story, we also talk about: the Spanish word “la bruja” Southwestern culture and Santa Fe adobe homes and desert life authors and illustrators why children love spooky stories and fun educational breakdowns for kids and parents to enjoy together. Quick disclaimer from your very excited podcast host: I’m still learning how to balance storytelling voices inside a recording studio instead of outside on a loud playground, so there are definitely a few moments where the audio gets a little dramatic or cuts out a bit. But honestly? I didn’t want to re-record it. There was something magical about this very first recording, imperfections and all. My goal is to release new episodes every Saturday filled with fairy tales, spooky stories, pirate adventures, magical journeys, and cozy story time moments families can enjoy together. Thank you so much for being here at the very beginning of Nanny Nikki’s Imagination Station. Now turn the page… and let the imagination continue.

15. 

    15 May 2026

    Trailer for Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station

    What started as lunchtime story time on the playground quickly turned into something bigger. After another teacher suggested I move closer so she could listen too, I realized maybe this little daily tradition deserved a life outside the playground. Welcome to Nanny Nikki's Imagination Station — a magical storytelling podcast inspired by the voices, laughter, and imaginations of the kids I spend my days teaching. From silly adventures and pirate tales to princess stories, spooky stories, and imaginative journeys, each episode is designed to bring stories to life the same way I do during recess story time: with voices, excitement, and heart. And because learning never really stops, stick around after each story for fun facts about the book, the author, and simple kid-friendly discussion moments parents and children can enjoy together. Less than 12 hours after the idea was born, the trailer was finished — and this is only the beginning. So climb aboard the Imagination Station and let’s tell some stories together. ~Nanny Nikki

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

7 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

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