About

Unlocking Bedtime Stories is a gentle, inclusive storytelling podcast created to help children wind down with warmth, imagination, and emotional safety. Each episode opens the door to a calming world where every child — especially those with unique needs, big feelings, or busy minds — can feel seen, soothed, and celebrated.
Through magical adventures, soft narration, and sensory‑friendly pacing, we help families build bedtime rituals rooted in connection and belonging. Whether your child needs comfort, calm, or a spark of wonder before drifting off, these stories unlock a peaceful night’s rest… one story at a time.
Perfect for ages 3–10, neurodiverse families, and anyone who believes every child’s voice deserves to shine.

About the Host

Ms. Kendra McDowell Profile Photo
Ms. Kendra McDowell

Author/CEO/Midlife Mom

Meet Kendra McDowell

Welcome to Unlocking Bedtime Stories! I'm Kendra, a home care provider, midlife mom, and passionate storyteller dedicated to crafting meaningful nighttime adventures for 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 comfort during challenging times. Through Premier Health and Human Services, I've seen firsthand how the right support and gentle guidance can transform bedtime routines into meaningful moments of connection.

"Unlocking Bedtime Stories" was born from my belief that every family deserves access to bedtime stories that matter – especially families with unique needs who may struggle with traditional bedtime routines. These calming tales are designed to ease anxiety, promote relaxation, and help families build meaningful connections during winding-down time.

When I'm not creating these gentle stories, I'm out here being the most boring mom ever, navigating parenthood as a midlife mom. You'll find me running, listening to my favorite artists, or researching new ways to support families through storytelling.

My mission is simple: to unlock meaningful bedtime stories that matter, create calming moments for families, 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 Bedtime Stories