• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
jon in character logo

Jonathan Cormur - Voice Actor and Creator Dorktales Storytime Podcast

Voice Talent, Character Actor, and Kids Podcast Creator and Host

  • About
    • About Jonathan Cormur
    • Podcast Team
  • Podcast
    • Dorktales Fan Page
    • Dorktales Shop
    • Dorktales Storytime Seasons
      • Season 7 Episodes
      • Season 6 Episodes
      • Season 5 Episodes
      • Season 4 Episodes
      • Season 3 Episodes
      • Season 2 Episodes
      • Season 1 Episodes
      • Find All Episodes
      • Dorktales Video Previews
    • Story Categories
      • TALE Tour Adventures Rewind
      • Fairytales and Fables – Part 1
      • Fairytales and Fables – Part 2
      • Hidden Heroes of History – Part 1
      • Hidden Heroes of History – Part 2
      • Dorktales Lore Stories
      • Special Guest Storytellers
    • Podcast Playlists
    • Contact the Podcast
      • How to Listen
    • Podcast Press
  • Contact
    • Contact Jonathan Cormur
    • Contact the Podcast
    • Privacy Policy
    • Use of Content

Hopeful Hidden Heroes Who Changed The World

Banner on a multicolored background with the words HOPE and a young Black girl wearing headphones.

Dorktales Podcast Playlist for Kids

What if hope wasn’t just something you felt—but something you did? That idea comes to life in author Deedee Cummings’ beautifully inspiring children’s book, Hope in the Nick of Time. Through the story of Nick Saint, young readers learn that hoping skills can help them see the good even when things feel tough. It’s a message that resonates deeply with the mission of Dorktales Storytime, the reimagined fairytales, fables and folklore we tell and the real-life heroes we spotlight.

Hope in the Nick of Time Children's Book by Deedee Cummings.

Hope in the Nick of Time!

Get the children’s book that inspired this hopeful playlist.

  • Hope in the Nick of Time by Deedee Cummings is a magical tale about finding hope when things go wrong, and discovering that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
  • The Hope in the Nick of Time Activity Book is filled with 50+ fun and calming activities that help kids build emotional strength, develop a growth mindset, and express themselves creatively.
Buy the Book
Buy the Workbook

Deedee Cummings, the visionary founder of Make A Way Media, is on a mission to build stronger communities through literacy and love. Her work reminds us that small steps, whether through storytelling, social-emotional learning, or acts of generosity, can make real change. Her book inspired us to reflect on the individuals in our Hidden Heroes of History series who embody hope in action. These are the people who turned challenges into opportunities, used their voices to uplift others, and created a better world through courage, compassion, and creativity.

That’s why we bring our young listeners the Hopeful Hidden Heroes Who Changed The World Kids Podcast Playlist. It’s a special collection of Dorktales Storytime episodes that celebrate barrier breakers, big dreamers, and community builders. These are the real-life stories that show kids how hope can sound like a trumpet, look like a puppet show, or feel like a rocket launch. Whether it’s the fearless advocacy of Shirley Chisholm or the musical resilience of Louis Armstrong, each episode encourages kids to believe that they, too, can be a force for good.

Louis Armstrong Hidden Hero of History illustration

The DNA of Hope

From humble beginnings to global stardom, Louis Armstrong used music to uplift, unify, and inspire. Every note he played and every boundary he broke helped create a more joyful, inclusive world. His story is proof that passion and resilience can rewrite history.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Illustration of Nichelle Nichols for Dorktales Storytime podcast

The Future of Hope

Nichelle Nichols saw a future where representation mattered, and made it reality. Her impact went beyond the screen, inspiring generations to dream bigger and reach higher. She showed us that hope can be a launchpad for change.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Illustration of Dorktales Storytime Podcast episode on Duke Kahanamoku

The Spirit of Hope

With unmatched grace and humility, Duke Kahanamoku shared Hawaii’s gifts with the world. Whether riding waves or rescuing lives, he embodied the aloha spirit, lifting others up through kindness, courage, and connection. He made hope a way of life.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Illustration for the story of the "Six Triple Eight" on Dorktales Storytime Podcast

The Determination of Hope

Faced with impossible odds, the women of the Six Triple Eight showed what hope in action looks like. Their precision, perseverance, and pride uplifted soldiers’ spirits during wartime, delivering dignity and humanity one letter at a time.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Illustration of Pura Belpré reading to children and holding a bear puppet

The Community of Hope

Pura Belpré believed every child deserved to see themselves in stories. With puppets, picture books, and storytelling, she celebrated culture and community – planting seeds of pride and belonging that continue to grow today.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Dorktales Storytime podcast illustration of the episode, "Emma Lazarus, Hidden Hero of History."

The Gift of Hope

Emma Lazarus used poetry to shine a light on humanity. Her words etched into the Statue of Liberty still echo a promise of welcome and compassion. She taught us that hope can be a beacon for those seeking a better life.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Dorktales Storytime podcast episode illustration for "Simon Tam, Hidden Hero of History."

The Sounds of Hope

Simon Tam struck a powerful chord by transforming adversity into advocacy. He turned a fight for his band’s name into a stand for freedom and identity, proving that music and voice can challenge injustice and amplify hope.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Illustration of Dorktales Storytime podcast hidden heroes of history episode on Dr. Ellen Ochoa.

The Dream of Hope

Ellen Ochoa showed that when you reach for the stars, you take others with you. Her pioneering journey into space lit the path for future explorers, proving that curiosity and determination can launch dreams and make them soar.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Cover art for Dorktales Storytime podcast episode's hidden heroes of history episode on Shirley Chisholm.

The Fearlessness of Hope

Shirley Chisholm shattered barriers with unshakable resolve. Whether in Congress or on the campaign trail, she stood tall for justice and equity. Her fearless pursuit of change reminds us that hope is powerful and unstoppable.

Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Cover of Hoping Skills workbook by Make A Way Media.

Empower Your Child with Hope!

The Hoping Skills Workbook by Deedee Cummings is filled with fun, thoughtful activities to help kids build confidence, explore emotions, and believe in their dreams.

Get Your Free Copy

Categories: All Blog Posts, Heroes of History, Podcast Playlists

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Footer

Follow Jonathan

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest

Follow Dorktales

  • YouTube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Support the Podcast

Be our heroes and help us continue to make empowering stories for kids.

Monthly Donation
One-time Donation

Voice Over and Commercial Inquiries

Cahoots Keep Voice Acting Connected
JE Talent
  • About
  • Acting
  • Voice Over Work
  • Resume
  • Headshot
  • Dorktales Podcast
  • Contact

COPYRIGHT © 2013–2026 · ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, JONATHAN CORMUR //