"Hope is bold," Brad Montague tells me. The New York Times best-selling author and illustrator explains how hope, in combination with play, togetherness, and joy, can be a force for change, and help spark kids' imaginations for what's possible.  What a treat you’re in for this week! It’s a truly inspiring, happy-making conversation with the man you may know for his many children’s books (including the upcoming Fail-a-bration, already a #1 new release!). He also created the Kid President web series and the global social good movement Socktober. Or maybe you’re just a fan of his super popular Instagram account, like everyone else I know.  Tune in for Brad's thoughts on learning from failure, advocating for “hopepunk,” and why we should aspire to be joyful rebels — right along with our kids. ----- Support Our Awesome Sponsor: Phyla Skincare: If you struggle with acne or have kids who do, save 25% your first order with code COOLMOM on Phyla Phortify Probiotic Serum. There's a reason Ryan Reynolds is an investor -- It's the breakthrough, science-backed, derm-recommended, probiotic acne serum that prevents breakouts all without harsh chemicals or side effects. Hard recommend! ----- Our Cool Picks of the Week include naps, a new children's books, and the ultimate Gen X radio station -- that the Gen Z-ers like too. ---- Follow Spawned: Apple, Spotify, Amazon Find Brad Montague: Website, Instagram, Substack, Amazon Find Liz Gumbinner: Instagram, Substack, Facebook, Threads Find Cool Mom Picks: Instagram, Facebook, Threads Join: The Spawned Podcast FB Community Shownotes from today's episode: Cool Mom Pick Podcast Page Subscribe for cool picks each week right in your inbox: coolmompicks.com/subscribe/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices