Author: Brooke Wehrle

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Tell us about yourself and your role in “Alma’s Summertime Musical.”  

I make songs, picture books, and dairy-free ice cream for children and families to enjoy! My role in “Alma's Summertime Musical" is to write songs. I'm super lucky because I get to be creative for a living. For this episode, I got to imagine being a kid living in the Bronx during the summertime, and I wrote lyrics, melodies, and raps that inspired Alma and her friends. I have a pretty cool job!  

Have you worked on projects like this before?   

Yes! I've written songs and done voice acting for other PBS KIDS TV shows and podcasts, such as Work It Out Wombats and Jamming on the Job. I've written and directed a PBS animated series, History of White People in America, and an Emmy-winning PBS Digital Studios web-series called Beat Making Lab. Most of my songs are on my GRAMMY-nominated original albums, which you can stream on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever else you stream music. Just search my name: Pierce Freelon, and you'll find a bunch of fun, family-friendly songs about Afrofuturism, setting boundaries, brushing your teeth, and little mushrooms!  

Did you have to do any research to prepare? 

Yes, I did lots of research, watching tons and tons of Alma's Way episodes. I also thought about the Bronx, the birthplace of Hip Hop, and tried my best to incorporate themes of fun, community, and summer vibes into my lyrics.  

What was your favorite TV show when you were growing up?  

My favorite TV show as a kid was a PBS show called Reading Rainbow. I loved the theme song and really enjoyed learning about different books. Reading Rainbow was hosted by a cool dude named LeVar Burton, whom I wrote a song about on my album “Black to the Future.” Burton also played a character on my other favorite childhood show, Star Trek: The Next Generation. He played an engineer named Geordi LaForge and was the coolest guy on the spaceship!  

What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

Lucky for me, I get to play for a living! I don't think of it as work. I play music, I write stories, I make dairy-free ice cream, and I get to perform all around the world! When I'm not making money doing that stuff, I like to play basketball with my friends, go on nature walks, ride bikes with my family, and teach kids everything I know about music. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Tell us about yourself and how you got involved with Odd Squad. 

When I was working at CBC, Odd Squad came across my desk, and I instantly loved the script and characters. There was also a pilot episode, but it was different from what you see today. It was filmed in an office setting rather than the type of fantastical headquarters that you see in the series now. 

Not too long after that, I ended up joining Sinking Ship Entertainment and was thrilled to have the opportunity to work on the show with Fred Rogers Productions, TVO, and PBS.   

Describe your role on Odd Squad over the years. 

My role has really evolved over the years on this show. When I joined Sinking Ship, the show was already in production, but the delivery of the first batch of 16 half-hour episodes was looming and it was a very complicated post-production process, partly due to the enormous number of episodes that needed to be delivered at once. At one point we had several mix suites running simultaneously and final VFX being dropped in online. We were still very much in the full swing of production filming every day, so it was quite the bonding experience!  

Once that was done, we really got into a great groove in making the show and many of those production and post-production processes that we nailed down making those first 16 episodes still stand true today.  

From then on my role was to oversee the show as the exec for Sinking Ship, so I was across all elements of the series: working closely with the showrunners, hiring the writers and cast through to making sure that we were doing everything possible to realize the creative vision of the show and working with our producer to ensure the show was delivered on time and on budget.  

Over the last few years, my role has evolved again into helping expand the show into different iterations such as setting up Odd Squad UK with the BBC—and there will be a couple of new soon-to-be announced exciting Odd Squad projects coming down the pipeline.  

What was your favorite TV show when you were growing up? 

I grew up in Australia, so we got a real mix of kids TV from what was made locally and what came from the UK, US, and Canada. It’s hard to choose as there were just so many great shows. but I’d have to say the Australian show Round the Twist has always been a favorite and later Degrassi from Canada was high on my list. There was also a show from the US that I still can’t get out of my head called Small Wonder about a family whose daughter was actually a robot. It was hilarious.  

Do you have a favorite episode of Odd Squad? 

I would have to say the Australian special we filmed in Sydney is one of my all-time favorites. To have so many of the cast and crew travel to where I grew up was a real joy, and having Toni Collette come on board as our Sand Queen villain was a career highlight.  

What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

Living in Canada, nothing beats “lake life” in the summer. Swimming in the crystal-clear water of the many lakes just outside Toronto is a pure joy, and in the winter skating on those lakes is also incredible. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Describe your role at Fred Rogers Productions. 

I’m the Revenue Analyst and a proud member of FRP’s amazing accounting team. My focus is royalties, but I also review other incoming funds and make sure they are reflected accurately in our financial records. 

Tell us about yourself and how your career led you to work in children’s television. 

I’ve always loved the creative arts but pursued a degree in Business & Accounting. After spending a year working as an auditor in Philadelphia, I moved to Northern California. I started taking improv classes, which led to acting classes and auditions. Soon, I was performing regularly and doing accounting part-time.   

Eventually, my family decided to make the cross-country move to Pennsylvania. I was aging out of my role as a stay-at-home mom and wanted to find a job working with wonderful people where I could put my various skills to good use. One day, an accounting job for FRP popped up. It felt like the perfect blend of creativity and finance. I don’t remember EVER feeling so excited about a day job.   

What do you like most about working at Fred Rogers Productions? 

Imagine getting to work with a group of brilliant creators. Each of them is smart, funny, kind, and operating at the top of their game. The work you do as a group enriches the lives of others. That’s what I get to be a part of every day.   

What was your favorite TV show when you were growing up? 

Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood were so gentle and easy. I loved to sing and dance along with the Mouseketeers on The New Mickey Mouse Club. Laughing along with the grownups while watching The Carol Burnett Show. How can you pick a favorite? 

What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

My husband and I like having “no plans.” When we’re not working, there’s a good chance you’ll find us trying out a new restaurant, taking our labradoodle to Home Depot, or enjoying the wildlife while relaxing on our deck.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions has partnered with Milton Hershey School (MHS), a premiere Hershey, PA-based private school, on a six-month digital sponsorship for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The collaboration is a natural fit for the school, where students in pre-K through 12th grade live and learn on campus, and the children’s media organization, which strives to foster an enthusiasm for learning. This marks the first digital sponsorship for the iconic series on MisterRogers.org, where fans can easily access their favorite episodes online. The partnership of the mission-focused organizations was born out of Milton Hershey School’s focus on social and emotional learning and developing critical thinking skills for children’s lifelong success, which are features of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The sponsorship began in February and runs through July of this year.

“We’re very excited to join forces with a mission-aligned organization like Milton Hershey School,” said Paul Siefken, President & CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “With the shared goal to provide children with opportunities to learn, follow their curiosity, and develop important lifelong skills, it is a natural fit for collaboration.”

“As Milton Hershey School grows to support even more students, we’re eager to share our life-changing mission with families everywhere through the wonderful programming of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” said Shaun Turner, Senior Director of Enrollment Management and Family Relations at MHS. “This great partnership is not just about raising awareness, though—it’s an extension of our founders’ commitment to educate and empower children.”

The new digital sponsorship features banners and 15-second, pre-roll video on all Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood episodes on the brand’s official website plus social media engagement on Fred Rogers Productions’ owned channels. The campaign highlights the positive impact Milton Hershey School has on students by covering all costs for all who attend, and its long history of educating children in social and financial need to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

About Milton Hershey School

Milton Hershey School is one of the world's best private schools, where qualifying students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade live on campus and receive an exceptional educational experience—with all costs covered. For more information, visit mhskids.org.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

March 20th marks a special anniversary for Fred Rogers Productions, as it is Fred's birthday. We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate his legacy than to share this piece from Parents.com. We teamed up with the Center for Scholars & Storytellers to assess the long-term impact of Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. Teenagers that watched the show over a decade ago still remember the social-emotional themes and life skills learned from the show. We are proud to carry on Fred's work in crafting quality media for children across all of our series.

You can find the full commissioned study report here.

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Tell us about yourself and how you got involved with Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.

My dad was in the industry long before I was even born so in a way I’ve been surrounded by animation my whole life. I always knew I wanted to do something creative, so I pursued a career in visual merchandising arts. I made props and created window displays for stores. While I loved the work the hours were tough, so I eventually decided to pivot. I luckily got my foot in the door at 9 Story as the studio receptionist. From there, I worked my way up as the production assistant for the studio and ultimately landed a role as the production coordinator on Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. 

Describe your role on Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood over the years. 

I started as the production coordinator on Season 3. Over the past ten years, I’ve taken on roles as production manager, line producer, and eventually producer. My job is to oversee the budget, schedule, and production team, ensuring that every department has the resources they need to bring this incredible show to life.

You can think of my role like Google Maps. Our destination is the final product, and it’s my job to find the best course to get us there. If obstacles arise, I reroute the team while keeping us on track. Most importantly, I make sure we reach our destination safely with everyone enjoying the journey along the way. 

What was your favorite TV show when you were growing up? 

I loved the show Art Attack. Neil Buchanan was a wonderful host, and the best part was trying to recreate his projects in my own living room. Most of the time you already had the supplies at home: just some glue, newspaper, and paint. With a little creativity you could make something amazing. 

Do you have a favorite episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood?  

My favorite episode is “Daniel’s Fish Dies,” not because it was sad, but because it truly showcases how well this team comes together to help kids navigate tough emotions. I really appreciate the thoughts and efforts that every department puts in to ensure children can understand and process difficult feelings in a meaningful way. It makes me really proud to be part of it. 

What do you like to do when you’re not working?  

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and our dog, Jake from State Farm. My son is now eight years old and plays both hockey and lacrosse, so our weekends are usually spent at the rink or on the field cheering him on. Getting to watch my favorite player in action every weekend?  Sounds like a grr-ific time to me! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Alma’s Way has been greenlit for a third season. The new season of the hit critical thinking-focused show will feature 15 half-hour episodes, including a 22-minute musical special. Alma’s Way is created by Sonia Manzano (“Maria” on Sesame Street) and is produced in association with Pipeline Studios (Work It Out Wombats!, DORA).

Season 3 of Alma’s Way will continue to capture the quintessential sights and sounds of New York City with episodes that include the New York Public Library, the 6 train, and a return visit to the iconic American Museum of Natural History. In addition, the new season will feature more music with “Alma in Oz,” a 22-minute special musical episode inspired by L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Season 3 will include a wide range of stories that cover relatable experiences like navigating the loss of a beloved neighbor, learning self-regulation techniques for when things don't go as planned, and supporting a friend through a difficult situation. The episodes will include learning goals like problem-solving, self-advocacy, responsible decision-making, and others for which the series is known.

“We are thrilled that viewers will continue to learn alongside Alma and her friends in Season 3,” said Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer for Fred Rogers Productions and executive producer of the show. “Whatever the dilemma may be, Alma models how to think things through with kindness, optimism, and self-confidence."

“It’s so important that kids know they matter and for them to see themselves reflected in the characters on screen,” said Sonia Manzano, series creator and executive producer. “I’m honored to work with Fred Rogers Productions, PBS KIDS, and Pipeline Studios to help achieve this goal the ‘Alma way!’”

“We’re excited to bring more Alma’s Way to families across the country, highlighting community and all the fun learning moments that the series brings to life in every episode,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager, PBS KIDS.

Fred Rogers Productions will produce two new Alma's Way games for the free PBS KIDS Games app and pbskids.org, including one designed for accessible play for children whose motor abilities may affect how they play desktop and mobile games. The hugely popular Alma’s Way games that are now available, including “Alma on the Case” and “Dominoes,” have been played more than 30 million times to date.*

Alma’s Way is aimed at kids 4-6 and focuses on critical thinking, responsible decision-making, and empathy, while showcasing Latino cultures through music, food, language, and more. All episodes are available in both English and Spanish. The series is created by Sonia Manzano and produced by Fred Rogers Productions in association with Pipeline Studios. Ellen Doherty and Manzano are executive producers. Jorge Aguirre (Goldie & Bear) is head writer and co-executive producer. Additional co-executive producers are Luis Lopez and Juan Lopez. Supervising producer for Fred Rogers Productions is Olubunmi Mia Olufemi. *Digital Sources: Google Analytics, September 2023 to December 2024.

Season 3 of Alma’s Way also features episodes written by fellows of Fred Rogers Productions’ Writers’ Neighborhood, a mentoring program that provides training and support for new and emerging writers as they build and sustain freelance careers in children’s media.

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions is pleased to share that Hedda Sharapan has been inducted into The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Gold Circle! Hedda has been with FRP for over 50 years and currently serves as a child development consultant on Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. She began working with Fred on the very first taping of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood in October 1966. Congratulations on this very well-deserved recognition and thank you for your dedication to enriching the lives of children through your work, Hedda!

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions (FRP) has received funding to advance its workforce development and community engagement programs from Citizens. The $100,000 grant will support the Fred Rogers Productions Writers’ Neighborhood, the children’s media organization’s fellowship program for emerging writers as well as its community engagement events inspired by Alma’s Way, the Emmy®- nominated animated series created by Sonia Manzano and produced by FRP for PBS KIDS.

The Fred Rogers Productions Writers’ Neighborhood is a fellowship program that aims to help emerging writers build and sustain careers in children’s media. Now in its third year, the mentorship program helps build the pipeline of creatives in children’s programming by connecting fellows with industry professionals and enabling them to learn and network with experienced writers, story editors, head writers, and producers.

Alma’s Way is an engaging, animated PBS KIDS series for children ages 4 to 6 that stars 6- year-old Alma Rivera, a proud and confident Puerto Rican girl, who lives in the Bronx with her family and a diverse group of friends and neighbors. Citizens’ funding will support Fred Rogers Productions’ community engagement initiatives to amplify Alma’s Way’s positive message to young audiences. Last fall, Citizens helped fund an interactive, accessible screening event for children and families at the American Museum of Natural History in New York that was inspired by Alma’s on-screen visit to the museum. Citizens will support a similar event in Pittsburgh later this year.

“We are so thrilled to extend our collaboration with Citizens to help further our initiatives for Alma’s Way events and our Writers’ Neighborhood program,” said Paul Siefken, president & CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “Both Fred Rogers Productions and Citizens are dedicated to supporting the arts and media here in Pittsburgh, and their support will make it possible for us to serve many more children, families, and talented professionals.”

"At Citizens, we understand the importance of supporting educational and cultural initiatives that enrich our communities," said Mark Rendulic, Citizens Pittsburgh Market President. "Fred Rogers Productions is a source of pride for Pittsburgh and has been a cornerstone in fostering creativity and learning for generations. We’re thrilled to support their efforts to build the pipeline of skilled talent that fuels our creative economy and help ensure that their children’s stories continue to inspire and educate.”

 

 

 

 

Posted on by Brooke Wehrle

Fred Rogers Productions is thrilled to announce that Donkey Hodie and our partner, Curious Media Inc, won the Best Alternative Game at the 2025 Kidscreen Awards! Cousin Hodie Playdate was designed with neurodiverse children in mind and aims to help kids identify their emotions.

Kidscreen is the leading international trade publication serving the informational needs and interests of kids entertainment professionals. In addition to the magazine, Kidscreen’s brand includes a website, an on-line newsletter delivered digitally every weekday and a marquee annual event that brings 1,500 of the industry’s top players together for three days of networking and professional development.

Read the full list of winners here.