The Big Red Balloon Podcast

When a mysterious pink comet shoots over the beach one night, its sparkling tail brings two sand people to life.  Delighted by the lights of a nearby seaside sideshow, Princess Delphine and Bruce Maybe set off for a night of adventure. From touching the cusp of the moon from the top of the Ferris wheel to bumping and crashing on the bumper cars, every moment feels magic.  But as dawn approaches an...

Discover the joys of poetry with our guest poet, John Malone. Writing poetry for more than 70 years, John has shared his love of verse with generations of children and readers. In this episode, John shares how he became a writer, offers practical advice for young poets, and reads some of his favourite children's poems. Join John and his son, podcast host Paul Malone, for a celebration of poetry, c...

Young aeronaut Elfi arrives in the village of Sunset convinced that no view could be worth risking one's life for. But as the sun sinks beyond the sea, she discovers a magical secret that draws travellers from across the world—and changes the way she sees herself forever. A heartwarming fantasy adventure about friendship, wonder, and the magic hidden in unexpected places.

A mysterious island. A one-eyed giant. An impossible escape.  When Mirri, Indigo, and Hadrik are captured by Polgorous the Horrendous, they must use all their skills—and a dash of magic—to outsmart one of the most feared creatures in the Thousand Island Archipelago. (Loosely inspired by the ancient Greek tale of Odysseus and the Cyclops.)

When spring finally arrives, Edi leaves a mountain village aboard the Felgistor Pedal Train, determined to build a new life far from the throne she abandoned. Disguised as a boy and hiding a dangerous secret, she soon discovers that courage, kindness, and a sharp eye with a bow can change the course of an adventure.

Our story takes us to a winter music festival in Victor Harbor, where one small band gets the chance of a lifetime—just one song on stage. But when their signature paper cowboy hats go up in flames, everything starts to fall apart.  Can AJ find the courage to step into the spotlight without them?  This is a story about friendship, fear, and discovering that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do…...

On a remote island at summer’s end, Jark spends his days dreaming of the sea and one thing only: escaping the island. When he meets an apprentice sorcerer named April Weathers, he thinks his chance has finally come. But Jark isn't the only one wanting to take to the skies. His fierce beach rival, Indigo, has her own plans, and April is about to teach them both that "learning to fly" isn't exactly...

Ever wondered what would happen if our pets took over the world's most important jobs?   In this wonderfully strange and humorous tale, our young hero visits the doctor...only to discover he's a dog!  What unfolds is a hilarious short story with a wonderfully surprising twist.   Written and narrated by Australian children’s author Paul Malone , this episode is a playful look at how we see others a...

On the longest wave of the Bay of Dreams, a young sailing apprentice tastes freedom—and meets a girl who feels like a myth come to life. Calypso is a story of thundering surf and twin moons, first love, a hint of magic, and the moments that stay with us long after the tide has turned. Written and narrated by Australian children’s author Paul Malone, this immersive episode is perfect for listeners...

A daring hot air balloon adventure where apprentice aeronaut Elfi must face not only her fear of heights but also a terrible fire breathing dragon. Can she help master aeronaut Erlan Arkingskor ward off the dragon or will they go down in a ball of flames? Listen in to find out!  Written by Australian author Paul Malone, The Aeronaut was first published in The School Magazine (Australia), Touchdown...

When two young adventurers seek food and shelter in a snow covered village in the middle of a mountain lake, it appears the village is abandoned. Or is it? Find out what happens when Edi and Boy discover that the only food to be eaten is their own brains if the zombies catch them! Written and read by Australian children’s author Paul Malone , this spooky tale is perfect for brave young listeners w...