About The Creator

Toni Kennedy

Creator & host

Toni Kennedy is the creator of the award-winning, critically acclaimed children’s podcast What’s Poppin’ Penny?. A grandma and former preschool teacher, Toni blends her love of storytelling with her passion for social-emotional learning to create joyful, heart-centered stories for kids and families.

Her upcoming book, Bear Hugs, is inspired by the podcast and continues her mission of empowering children while supporting parents and educators through stories that reflect real family life. Toni’s first book, In the Morning, was self-published during her teaching years as a tool to ease separation anxiety for preschoolers just starting school.

In 2022, Toni was selected as a finalist for Spotify’s SoundUp Family and Kids podcast accelerator program, led by Verdell Walker. During the program, she received guidance and mentorship from SoundUp Senior Manager Jane Zumwalt and award-winning kid's podcast creator & producer Rebecca Cunningham, CEO of Cordelia Studios, and Executive Producer & host of Girl Tales.

Since then, What’s Poppin’ Penny? has gone on to receive critical acclaim. It was named “Best Kids & Family Podcast for ages 3+” by Common Sense Media (2023) and won both the Communicator Award of Distinction (2025) and the Communicator Award of Excellence (2025). The show was also recognized at the 2025 Black Podcasting Awards, where it earned “Best Youth Podcast.”

Through books, podcasts, and more, Toni is dedicated to nurturing children’s imaginations and helping families find magic in everyday moments.

Interviews & features

Check out my guest interviews and features across the podcasting world! Each conversation gives you a chance to hear more about What’s Poppin’ Penny?, my journey as a preschool teacher turned children’s podcast creator, and the importance of social-emotional learning for families everywhere.

Want to explore more? You’ll find additional interviews, articles, and resources in the Additional Links tab.