Shows
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe 100th Episode with special guest Rehya StevensToday, we're celebrating the 100th episode of A Cozy Christmas podcast. I have a Q&A section where I answer questions and share Christmas memories from the audience. Then singer/songwriter Rehya Stevens and I sit down and catch up on life, and we talk about our favorite Christmas albums and the memories we have of them. Rehya then gives us some great tips on how to show kindness towards others during this time of year. (some of the organizations she mentioned are posted below if you're interested.) I've been really excited to get this episode out, and I...
2022-12-201h 21
A Cozy Christmas PodcastWe Should All Aspire to be Scrooge: A Conversation with "A Sherlock Carol" creators Mark Shanahan and Drew McVetyThe worlds of Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens collide! In today's episode I talk to writer/director Mark Shanahan - who's back on the show to talk more about his play A Sherlock Carol. Along for the ride is his partner in this endeavor, Drew McVety - he stars as Sherlock Holmes and is also one of the producers. After we catch up with Mark and find out all about how Drew portrays Sherlock Holmes, I subject them to another round of the Cozy Christmas Questionnaire - and it turns out these two are full of...
2022-12-1652 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastThere's Murder, But We Don't Use Chainsaws: Christmas in Florida and Other Cozy Stories with guest Carol J. PerryHello! My guest today is cozy mystery writer Carol J. Perry. She is the author of the Haunted Haven series and the Witch City Mystery series. We have a fun conversation talking about her books. I'd especially recommend her most recent one called "High Spirits", as it takes place at Christmas. Later on, the conversation turns to Christmas and we talk about some of her favorite memories and traditions, what Christmas is like in Florida vs New England, and during the Cozy Christmas Questionnaire, we get side tracked talking about mince meat pie. Carol is living a full and...
2022-12-1345 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy Crime Story: "Stuffing" by Edgar WallaceHello! Since I've been talking to a lot of mystery writers lately, I thought I should read a classic crime story to you today - "Stuffing" by Edgar Wallace. It's basically a story of a heist gone wrong, and Wallace skillfully weaves together the stories of a poor newly married couple about to leave for Canada to start a new job, a couple of crooks, and a rich man with a safe full of money. The story is both funny and charming! A perfect read for this time of year. If you'd like to submit a question...
2022-12-1122 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastMusicals, Military Life, and The Cozy Christmas Questionnaire with guest Sarah Joy KaneHello friends, today's episode brings much joy... Sarah Joy Kane is our guest! I catch up with her and find out about the musical she's in, Scrooge No More, currently showing at Busch Gardens Williamsburg. If you're able to see her in the performance, tell her I said hello! Then we talk about her life as a military wife and what we can do to help support our troops and their families. And then we get down to the really important questions - which is better Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Colored Lights or White lights? SNOW OR SUN...
2022-12-071h 02A Cozy Christmas PodcastMrs. Claus and the Evil Elves: an interview with Liz IrelandDead bodies keep turning up at the North Pole. Good thing that Mrs. Claus is on the case! That's right, I have Liz Ireland, author of the Mrs. Claus Cozy Mystery Series. She's here to talk about her new book "Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves" and we have a wonderful chat about her book, Christmas, and of course Charles Dickens and a Christmas Carol. Can you guess which of us has more copies of Christmas Carol audiobooks? And just how many are too many? There's a lot to laugh over in this episode, but we also...
2022-12-0354 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy Conversation with the Beachbum Bookworm!For my youtube viewers, today's episode is going to look a little bit different... it's a video version!If you'd like to watch this episode instead of listening, you can head over to the youtube channel at A Cozy Christmas Podcast! In today's episode, I had a lot of fun talking to Tiffany, the host of the youtube channel The Beachbum Bookworm. We talk about cozy mysteries that are set at Christmas time - and if you thought I read a lot of them, just wait until you meet her! There's enough recommendations in this episode to f...
2022-11-3039 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastFantastic Turkeys and Where to Find ThemHappy Thanksgiving Everyone! Today, we're talking turkey... In today's episode I take a brief look at where the tradition of eating turkey comes from, and discover a few traditional Christmas meals from around the world. Then I read Louisa May Alcott's short story, "A Christmas Turkey, and How It Came". Does this old story still have a relevant message for us today? Indeed it does. But it's also a wonderfully sweet story to listen to while you slowly digest your Thanksgiving Dinner. Also, our 100th episode is fast approaching! If you have a...
2022-11-2440 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastA Caterer's Guide to Holidays & Homicide: Interview with Author Jessica ThompsonHappy Thanksgiving Week! Since Thanksgiving is coming, I know a lot of us are thinking about one thing: food. So on today's episode, I'll be talking to Author Jessica Thompson about her culinary cozy mystery series, A Caterer's Guide to Crime. Book 2 in the series is set at Christmas and is on sale now. Jessica and I talk about her books, and discuss our favorite Christmas music, treats, books, memories and traditions, and a whole lot more. Make sure you have some snacks handy, because this episode will make you hungry! Annoucement: My 100th episode is coming...
2022-11-2250 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastThe North Pole Poet, with Amy MarschakHello everyone - today we are talking poetry. I have the amazing North Pole Poet Laureate with me today, Amy Marschak. She was named by Santa himself to spread Christmas cheer throughout the world by her improv poetry. That's right - improv! So in today's episode I talk to her about life as Santa's poet, and then she kindly demonstrates her talent and comes up with several poems for me with just a few prompts. You will be captivated by her Christmas cheer! There is a video version of this interview on my youtube channel if you'd like to...
2022-11-1654 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastThe History of Twas The Night Before Christmas, with Pamela McCollIn today's episode I interview the author of "Twas The Night - The Art and History of the Classic Christmas Poem". This book by Pamela McColl is what I consider to be the definitive work on the poem. I also talk with my daughter Gracie about what she's been up to at school, and we learn about the school musical she will be in this year that has a very strong Christmas connection! Happy Christmas Podcast day everyone, and we've made it to November! It's time to bust out the Christmas music. Get the book...
2022-11-011h 06
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Nightmare Before Christmas with Kristin SeeringWelcome to the Cozy Christmas Podcast Halloween Spooktacular! In today's episode I am in the Halloween and Christmas spirit as I have Kristin Seering, the host of the Holidays After Dark podcast, on to talk about one of our favorite films, "Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas"! Kristin and I talk about the film and the fantastic music, our memories of the movie, favorite songs and lines, and of course we discuss Christmas too. Enjoy your Halloween weekend as we transition to the best time of the year! Holidays After Dark: https://holidaysafterdark.com/ Ways...
2022-10-281h 01
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Signal Man by Charles Dickens: A Christmas Story for HalloweenIn this episode, I hope to help you get in the Halloween mood, as I have a delightful Christmas story for you today... one that is perfect for Halloween! Today I read for you The Signal Man by Charles Dickens. It was a story published in the collection called "Mugby Junction" that was published for Christmas 1866. Charles Dickens edited the collection and added a couple of other stories by other authors all centered around the rail line. The Signal Man tells the story of a railway signal man who thinks he's seen a ghost that...
2022-10-2036 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastIs Santa Claus Real? An Unscientific Search...Happy October! Today's episode is pretty special - it was mostly written by you, my listeners! A few days ago I posted a question on my social medias, "Is Santa real?" and you all responded en masse... in today's episode I read many of your responses and talk about them, and then end the episode with an original true story that inspired this entire episode. One of my listeners named Daniel Morgan sent me this wonderful story that shows the power of belief, imagination... and Santa Claus! I know you'll enjoy it. If you have an original...
2022-10-0433 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThis Episode is Underrated!? Underrated Christmas films with special guest Derick McDuffDerick McDuff from the Underrated movie podcast joins me today to talk about 5 Christmas movies he thinks are underrated. Do you agree with him? Take a listen and find out. #1 will surprise you... We also take a few moments to talk about our favorite Christmas memories and gifts, as well as discuss the best on screen portrayal of Santa! Do you agree or disagree? Let me know in the comments on my socials, and we'll keep the conversation going. The Underrated Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/underrated/id1460393092 Ways...
2022-09-1945 min
A Cozy Christmas Podcast"Christmas Jenny" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman... and some fun news!Hello Cozies, in today's episode I'll be reading the short story "Christmas Jenny" by Mary E Wilkins Freeman. It's a charming little Christmas story that celebrates kindness and has some really fun characters in it. I hope you'll enjoy it! But before I get to the story, I talk about this month's reading prompt and a couple of fun news items that I'll be doing in September! Enjoy! Mentioned in the show: The Village Collector: http://thevillagecollector.com/ Christmas Clatter: https://www.christmasclatter.com/ The Christmas Alphabet Podcast: http...
2022-09-1246 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastBlack Santa: a Little Film with a Big HeartHello everyone! I'm back from an unplanned hiatus, and I'm reading to dive into the 'Ber months with my Christmas cheer. Today's episode is a fun one - I start things off talking about my crazy August and a misadventure with a bat. Then I open the mail bag and share some emails that have come my way. The majority of the episode is then given over to a discussion with the filmmakers from the recent short film "Black Santa". Writer-Director Travis Wood and writer Weston Auburn talk to me about how the film came about, the...
2022-09-0546 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastEmma's Christmas Disaster - Selections from "Emma" by Jane AustenIn today's episode I read a selection from Jane Austen's novel "Emma". Emma Woodhouse is attending a Christmas Eve party and she has big plans to play matchmaker for her friend Harriet Smith and the eligable bachelor Mr. Elton. But you know what they say about the best laid plans... I also share a story about one of my Christmases gone wrong! So settle in for another cozy story as we bring Christmas in July 2022 to a conclusion! Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and story intro 06:00 Emma Chapter 13 22:37 Emma Chapter 14 - selections
2022-07-3148 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Sound of Music, Bronners, and a Christmas DwarfHappy Christmas in July! Buckle up, because this episode has a little bit of everything in it - I finally catch up with Gracie and she talks about her role in our community theater's production of The Sound of Music. We then talk about our trip to Bronner's Christmas Store, and of course had to taste test some cookies I picked up from there. After that we get very silly and attempt to talk in British accents (with horrible results) and I do my worst impression of Kermit the Frog - (with apologies to Tim Babb and...
2022-07-201h 06
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Christmas DreamHappy Christmas in July! I'm back from vacation and ready to count down the next 6 months to Christmas. We're going to get things started by talking about a couple of book related things. I also recommend a new Christmas novel I came across recently that I really enjoyed. Our story today is called "The Christmas Dream and How It Came True" by Louisa May Alcott. It's a really sweet story about a young girl named Effie who learns a valuable lesson about giving. Is it more blessed to give than to recieve? Effie is about to find...
2022-07-0646 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas can be Murder, but at Least There's Cookies with Darci HannahToday I am interviewing cozy mystery author Darci Hannah. She is the author of the Beacon Bakeshop Mystery series, and has written a wonderful Christmas mystery called Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off. Join us as we chat about her mystery series, our favorite Christmas cookies, movies, music and traditions. Then we play another fun game of Christmas Would You Rather! There's a lot of laughs and a whole lot of Christmas in this episode. Darci Hannah Website: www.darcihannah.com Bookshelf Odyssey Interview with Darci: https://bookshelfodyssey.buzzsprout.com/1819188/10514946-this-episode-will-make-you-hungry-with-special-guest-author-darci-hannah Podcast Recommendation: S...
2022-05-3152 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Not So Silent Night - The Burglar and The Blizzard, Part 3Our Christmas story wraps up this week with part 3 of The Burglar and The Blizzard by Alice Miller. Things get tense as the story's characters enjoy a somewhat tense Christmas dinner. Will Geoffrey be able to get McVey to confess, or will McVey out smart him? Will McVey's sister discover the truth about him? Will true love (for a woman he just met mere hours ago) triumph? Find out how the story all ends in today's episode! Ways to support the show: Buy me a coffee? www.ko-fi.com/cozychristmas Ornaments, Mugs, and N...
2022-05-1159 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastBaby It's Cold Outside: The Burglar and the Blizzard, Part 2Happy Monday - this episode should have been out sooner but life got too hectic last week and there were some technical dragons to slay. But we're back with part 2 of Alice Duer Miller's The Burglar and the Blizzard. This book is actually for April's reading prompt - stay tuned for next week's episode for part 3, and I will be announcing our next reading prompt! I'm calling this episode Baby, It's Cold Outside - as you'll find out, these two chapters some time following our main characters up and down a mountain trail during a blizzard.
2022-05-0232 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Burglar and the Blizzard Part 1Hello! In today's episode it's all about the Home Alone reading prompt, and I found the perfect story for it - in fact, I'm going to be able to read it to you over the next three episodes. It's called The Burglar and The Blizzard by Alice Duer Miller. It's a charming, funny story set at Christmas about a bachelor named Jeffry Holland who arrives home one Christmas Eve and finds his house being burgled. Find out what happens next in today's episode! Join me for a story that is as cozy as a Hallmark movie. Timestamps:
2022-04-2047 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Polar Express with special guest Natalie BickelI'm talking with author Natalie Bickel about The Polar Express, as well as updating you all on the reading prompt for April, a listener memory, and I read and talk about a poem called "Under the Holly Bough" by Charles Mackay. Grab your hot cocoa and let's ride the Polar Express! Natalie and I still hear the bell ring on Christmas - do you? Nat Bickel: https://www.natmosfear.com The Christmas Clue (Amazon) The Christmas Clue (Bookshop.org affiliate link) Books about Travel: The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks The Hazelw...
2022-04-0646 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas at WarIt's our 75th episode! It's amazing to think about number 100 is coming up this year. Thank you all so much for coming along on this incredible Christmas journey. In today's episode, things are a little more somber and reflective as I consider some of the events that are happening in the world today. I talk about The Christmas Truce in WWI and then I read the short story "Merry Christmas" that Canadian author Stephen Leacock wrote in 1914 as a response to the war that was happening around the globe at the time. It's a somewhat somber story...
2022-03-2241 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Village Collector's Hall of FameHappy March! In today's episode, Bill from thevillagecollector.com is back on the show to talk about the Christmas Villages showcased on his website that were voted into his Hall of Fame this year. We talk about Christmas, Dickens, and of course Christmas Villages! Then Grace and I decide to match wits and try out a Christmas trivia game that I bought after Christmas. Who do you think will win this time? I also announce the reading challenge for the month of March, and talk about the book I'm planning on reading. Timestamps: 00:00...
2022-03-0757 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Strange Adventures of a Wood SledIn today's episode I read The Strange Adventures of a Wood Sled by Washington Gladden, talk about my dream of being Santa one day, and give a review on the book The Miracle of Ebenezer Street by Catherine Doyle. There's nothing too strange about the adventure or the wood sled in Gladden's story, but it's a wonderfully cozy Christmas story that will give you all the Christmas feels. What better way to kick off a Monday? I'm looking for your Christmas memories - tell me about a time that you met Santa Claus - whether...
2022-02-2149 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastMarried to a Librarian (Try Not to be Jealous)...What happens when a book lover marries another book lover? Find out on today's episode! Hello! Welcome to season 3 of the Cozy Christmas Podcast. In today's episode I have a very special guest - my wife, Erin stops by the podcast to talk about our reading picks for this month's Cozy Christmas Reading Challenge. We talk about what it's like being a librarian; how can we support our local libraries; the books we've read for this challenge (along with a few others), and we talk just about everything we can think of. We even manage...
2022-01-311h 02A Cozy Christmas PodcastDoctor Marigold by Charles DickensHello and Merry Christmas... as of today, there are only 11 months until Christmas. I can't believe we're almost to the single digits... Ok, there's still a lot of time left until Christmas, and I'm excited to be starting season 3! In today's episode I share with you one of Charles Dickens' Christmas short stories, but it's not as well known as it should be. The story is called Doctor Marigold, and it tells the tale not of a physician, but of a "cheapjack". During the Victorian age, a cheapjack was someone who hawks wares from the...
2022-01-251h 00
A Cozy Christmas PodcastCharles Dickens' Christmas TreeWelcome to the season finale of A Cozy Christmas Podcast! Today, we're going to consider Charles Dickens' Christmas Tree, as well as a special announcement for a reading challenge. In 1850 Dickens published a reflection piece for Christmas entitled "A Christmas Tree". And in typical Dickens fashion, he has a lot of words to say about his tree and the memories from his past that it conjures up. Though at times the story is a bit strange, who hasn't occasionally gotten lost in nostalgia while enjoying the lights of their Christmas tree? I also am announcing...
2022-01-031h 03
A Cozy Christmas PodcastCelebrating Christmas with special guest Amy Boucher PyeMerry Christmas everyone! Or is it Happy Christmas? In any case, the day is finally here. For this special Christmas episode, I invited on author Amy Boucher Pye and we have a chat about her new Advent book called Celebrating Christmas, as well as talk about our faith in the context of Christmas, and share some stories about what Christmas is like in the UK. As always there is a lot of fun and joy in the episode today. Let me know how your Christmas is going! Find Amy online: Website: https://amyboucherpye...
2021-12-2539 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol, Stave 5 and a Special Christmas Greeting!Merry Christmas Eve! It's my favorite day of the year. And to help you celebrate today, here is part 5 from A Christmas Carol. Let's find out what happens to Scrooge after his ghostly visits. Is it too late for him to change? Also stick around after the story, as my friends at the Christmas Podcast Network have put together a special Christmas greeting for you. We all want to thank you for listening to our podcasts - for many of us, this is a work of love and we don't do it for the fame or fortune...
2021-12-2429 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastBigfoot, Little Women, and the Joyful Chaos of ChristmasMerry Christmas Eve Eve! Today's episode I sit down with fellow Christmas Podcaster Marty Achatz, from the Lit for Christmas Podcast, to talk about his new spoken word album "Christmas with Bigfoot". It's a wonderful album of Christmas essays that talk about love, loss, Christmas - and much more. Stay tuned for tomorrow's episode as we will finish up with A Christmas Carol stave 5, and then on Christmas day I will be interviewing author Amy Boucher Pye and talking about Advent. Buy Marty's Album: https://streakingintongues.bandcamp.com/album/christmas-with-bigfoot Lit for Christmas...
2021-12-2346 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastEggnog for BreakfastIt's Christmas week, and I have several episodes planned for the week. Today's episode begins with a listener's memory - Mika Jeane wrote a beautiful new Christmas song and I loved it so much I wanted to play it on the podcast for all of you. Thank you Mika for letting me share this with my other listeners! The song is called Light Up, and you can also hear it on Mika's youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q58XM5etc5k&ab_channel=MikaJeane Then guest and new friend of the show Sarah Joy...
2021-12-211h 12
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol, Stave 4Here's part 4 of A Christmas Carol. Scrooge meets the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come and is shown a cold, bleak future. Will he have a chance at redemption? This chapter has some of the most beautifully described scenes by Dickens. Enjoy, and Merry Christmas! Rate and review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-cozy-christmas-podcast/id1523423375 Buy me a coffee? www.ko-fi.com/cozychristmas Ornaments, Mugs, and Notebooks: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CozyChristmasPodcast Logo shirt designs: http://tee.pub/lic/edygC_h4D1c Contact Me:
2021-12-1737 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas is Coming Soon! with special guest Rehya StevensChristmas is Coming Soon - and yes that's true, but it's also my favorite new Christmas song from singer/songwriter Rehya Stevens on her brand new album, 'Tis the Season. In today's episode I talk with Rehya about our Christmases last year and this year's expectations, her new album and some of my favorite songs from it, what makes Christmas music sound Christmasy, and the challenges of writing new Christmas music, among other things. Forget about all the "Spiderman No Way Home" reviews being released today, Gracie is here to bring you the review...
2021-12-1455 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol, Stave 3Hi everyone, sorry this is late, but we've been sick (again) so it's made me get off schedule a little bit. But I finally got Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, Stave 3 edited and ready to go for you! In this section Scrooge meets the Ghost of Christmas Present - and we'll see the classic scenes of the Cratchit Family as well as Scrooge's nephew's Christmas party. This was really fun to read! After I read the story, I get on a ramble about how much I love this chapter in the book, and...
2021-12-111h 02
A Cozy Christmas PodcastElves 2.0: Cast Interview with the Birmingham Children's TheaterThe Birmingham Children's Theater is back with a new Zoom play called Elves 2.0! This year the Elves at the North Pole are ready for anything - and they want to invite your kids along on a virtual tour of the NP! They've learned from all the mistakes and malfunctions that happened last year are ready for anything. What could possibly go wrong? We have a full crew in the interview booth today: friend of the show Sina Skates, writer of Elves 2.0. We're also joined by actors Davey Morrison, who plays Stevie the Green Elf, and LaShondra Hood...
2021-12-0654 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol: Stave 2Today's story I read is Stave 2 of A Christmas Carol, in which we meet The Ghost of Christmas Past! Find out what happens when Scrooge is faced with painful events from his past. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:00 A Christmas Carol, part 2 40:45 Final Thoughts For more stories and author interviews check out The Bookshelf Odyssey Podcast: https://bookshelfodyssey.buzzsprout.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/ArtBookshelfOdyssey Ways to support the show: Rate and review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-cozy-christmas-podcast/id1523423375 B...
2021-12-0244 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastMemories, Clues, and a Little Elf Too with guest Natalie BickelIn today’s show, I’m interviewing author Natalie Bickel about her new children’s Christmas book, The Christmas Clue. We talk about the best Children stories to read at Christmas time, as well as our Christmas memories, favorite movies and so much more. I also share a listener memory about how he fell in love with his wife during Christmas time, and that leads me down memory lane to talk about how me and my wife started dating, sort of, at Christmas time. (Note: During the interview, my audio is not the best - I'm no...
2021-11-2951 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol: Stave 1A Cozy Christmas Podcast Presents: A Christmas Carol, Stave 1, by Charles Dickens. We are into the Christmas season now, and for this month's story I'll be bringing you weekly installments of A Christmas Carol! As you all know, this is by far my favorite story of all time. I am so excited to bring you this story that I love so dearly. I know some of you have seen multiple versions of the story on TV, but maybe you haven't actually read the original story yet. Maybe you read it every year and it's words...
2021-11-2647 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy and Kind Christmas with guest Robert PeterpaulHappy Thanksgiving! As a special thanksgiving episode, I invited Robert Peterpaul, actor and host of the new podcast The Art of Kindness, on to the show to talk about some kindness tips for the holiday season. We also have a lovely discussion about Christmas, the theater, our favorite Christmas songs and movies, we share our proposal stories, and much more. The world has been a difficult place for many people in recent days. It is both mine and Robert's hope that you find ways to be intentionally kind this year - and let us know! We are...
2021-11-251h 00
A Cozy Christmas PodcastHave Yourself a Christmas Mystery with special guest Mark ShanahanWe're going back to the theater today! And there's a mystery afoot... What happens when the worlds of Sherlock Holmes and Ebenezer Scrooge are thrown together? Find out in the new play that debuts today in NYC, A Sherlock Carol. My guest today is Mark Shanahan, he’s the writer and director of the play. He comes from an extensive background in acting, writing and directing many plays both for the stage and radio. He stops by and we chat about his new play, the challenges of performing theater safely during a pandemic, and the power of st...
2021-11-2256 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Most Precious Gift is the Time We Have with Each OtherHello everyone! In today's episode I share a listener memory that's an emotional one. Fan of the show Katie shares her memory of spending Christmas 2010 with her niece who had leukemia. After I share that, I give a few tips on how to celebrate the holidays after a loved one has passed away. This can be a difficult conversation, but it's something that many of us have experienced. Then, author Ed Daly stops by to talk about his new work, The Christmas Book: The Ultimate Guide to Your Favorite Holiday. We talk his book, the...
2021-11-1558 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastIs that you, Santa Claus?Happy November everyone! And happy Christmas Podcast Day! Have you ever wondered if a relative or friend might just be Santa Claus? Today I share a listener's memory of how his family member dressed up as Santa Claus one Christmas. His story reminds me of a Christmas tale that I read in the episode - "Old Father Christmas" by Juliana Horatia Ewing. It tells the story of two small children who think a local elderly man they meet near their house might just be Santa Claus. There's a few other odds and ends packed away...
2021-11-0136 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastMrs. Claus, P.I. with guest Liz IrelandThe name's Claus... MRS. Claus... Have you ever wondered what Mrs. Claus does all year while Santa prepares for Christmas? Well, according to a new books series by author Liz Ireland, she solves mysteries. In today's episode I interview Liz Ireland, and we talk about her excellent new Mrs. Claus cozy mystery series and of course there's lots of talk about our favorite books, Christmas, movies and memories. After my chat with Liz, I read you another classic Christmas story, "Mr. Bluff's Experiences of the Holiday" written by Oliver Bell Bunce. It tells the story...
2021-10-191h 14
A Cozy Christmas PodcastMuscatel and Bananas: Christmas in PortugalHappy October everyone! In today's episode I share a listener's memory from a cozy farm in Canada and he tells us about how his town welcomes Christmas. Then I head over to Portugal and share a couple of fun Christmas traditions the town of Braga has on Christmas eve. Finally, I read the essay Old Thoughts for Christmas by Christopher Morley. Published during the Christmas season after the Treaty of Versailles was signed, Morley ponders the gift of peace and the need for kindness after such a horrific world war - and finds that Christmas can bring these things...
2021-10-0425 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas Time in New York City, part 2It's back to New York City, as I sit down with Chris and Kris from Christmas Time in the City podcast to talk with them about life in the Big Apple, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, and much more. We play some fun trivia games about Iowa and have a lot of laughs along the way. Find them online: Website: http://www.christmastimeinthecity.com/ Youtube Channel: Click here for some awesome videos of NYC! Contact Me: facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cozychristmaspodcast instagram: @cozychristmaspodcast twitter...
2021-09-201h 07
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas in New York City, part 1 with Special Guest Anthony CarusoIn today's episode I interview Anthony Caruso from Tis the Podcast. We talk about the origins of his podcast, the wonderful Christmas podcast community, his book Another Christmas Story, Christmas Movies, books, Italian Christmas family traditions and more. Grab a Pumpkin Spiced Latte, and enjoy our conversation! Chapter 31 of Another Christmas Story, Read by Art: Do You Hear What I Hear? Books Mentioned in the Podcast: -----Affiliate Links----- The Christmas Train (Amazon) Marley: A Novel (Amazon) A Boy Called Christmas (Amazon)
2021-09-061h 13
A Cozy Christmas PodcastCozy Christmas Mail Bag - Our 50th Episode!Welcome to Episode 50! To celebrate, I'm dipping in to the Cozy Christmas mail bag to read some emails and share a very special recording from a listener. Our listener Michelle shared with me a recording of her mother reading the story "The Small One" by Charles Tazewel. It's the tale of a Donkey who finds himself having to be sold one day. It's a great story for those who like Christmas and small Donkeys. 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Listener Emails - we're talking mince meat pie, Christmas memories, and favorite stories. 11:20 Story: The Small...
2021-08-3029 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas in IrelandIn today's episode, a listener from Ireland writes in to talk about their Christmas celebrations, I have some musings on one of the best gifts I've ever been giving, and I read Charles Dickens' Christmas essay: What Christmas is, as We Grow Older. Plus an exciting announcement! Timestamps 00:32 Christmas in Ireland memory 07:50 Art's Birthday Musings 12:19 Story Introduction 16:09 "What Christmas is, as We Grow Older" by Charles Dickens 28:25 The Bookshelf Odyssey Podcast promo 30:15 Closing thoughts and announcements (sooo many announcements today!) Thanks for listening...
2021-08-1632 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Christmas Hirelings by Mary Elizabeth Braddon, Part 4, Chapter 7We've come to the final chapter of The Christmas Hirelings by Mary Elizabeth Braddon! It's a tear jerker for sure... or is just me? In this chapter, when Moppet is struck dangerously ill (as so frequently happens to children in Victorian literature), Sir John must come to terms with his love for the little girl. They are not sure whether Moppet will live or die, and then the children's mother shows up... and Sir John's life may never be the same again. Grab some eggnog and box of kleenex... and enjoy this cozy Victorian Christmas...
2021-07-301h 13
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas is Something that's Gotta Be Shared (special guest Bill from The Village Collector)Happy Christmas in July! Today, Bill from thevillagecollector.com stops by again to talk about how he's been celebrating Christmas in July on his website, and I ask him 10 questions about collecting Christmas villages. If you want to answer those questions too, you can head over to his website and click on The Village Cafe page. (Link is below!) I want to say hello to my listeners in Ireland - I've had an increase in listeners there, so please let me know about any interesting Irish Christmas traditions! How would you answer Bill's 10 Christmas village collector questions...
2021-07-2652 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Christmas Hirelings, Part 3, ch. 5-6, by Mary Elizabeth BraddonThis is part three of The Christmas Hirelings by Mary Elizabeth Braddon. It's the Christmas holidays at Penlyon Place! In part three of the story, there are several Christmas meals and celebrations that Sir John, Danby, Miss Hawberk and the three children attend. Sir John and the youngest child Moppet continue to form a loving bond. These chapters overflow with Christmas cheer and is definitely worth making some hot chocolate while you listen.
2021-07-2349 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Christmas Hirelings Part 2: Chapters 3-4In these chapters, we find out what happens on the first day that three children come to stay with Sir John Penlyon for Christmas. Will he further shut off his broken heart from them or will they charm their way through his gruff exterior? Enjoy the second part of a heart warming Christmas tale! Due to life being crazy and my inability to read a calendar correctly (long story, don't ask) I don't think I'm going to be able to get another regular episode out on Monday this week, but no worries, I will have...
2021-07-1745 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastMince Pies, Brownies, and Bears... Oh My! with Special Guest Jamie KlemanIt's our 1 year anniversary... and to celebrate, I baked each and every listener a chocolate turtle brownie... but then I ate them all. To celebrate today, I've got some special things in the episode including: A brand new Christmas story called The City of Limes by Jamie Kleman, then I talk to the author in an interview. After that Gracie and I chat about mince pies, brownies, and bears... oh my! If you'd like to watch my conversation with Gracie and her bears, check out our youtube channel - the video will be up in...
2021-07-121h 31
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Christmas Hirelings, Part 1, by Mary Elizabeth BraddonWelcome to a special bonus episode of A Cozy Christmas Podcast. Today, I'll begin reading one of my favorite Christmas novellas, The Christmas Hirelings by Mary Elizabeth Braddon. Though it was published closer to the end of the Victorian period in 1894, it captures all the hallmarks of a Victorian story, overflowing with sentimentality - but there are some wonderful Christmasy scenes as well. It tells the story of a lonely, gruff widower Sir John Penlyon as he spends Christmas with his friend Danby and his niece Adela. Danby points out how Christmas is...
2021-07-091h 01
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Light of Christmas with special guest Sina SkatesSina Skates, playwright from the Birmingham Children's Theater, is back on the show today and we're talking about keeping the magic of Christmas alive - 365! Well at least that's what we started talking about. As usual the conversation wanders - we talk about what’s coming this Christmas at the BCT, how to get through the difficult Christmases, what keeps us in the mood for Christmas all year round, and all kinds of other topics. Sina wants to be the Christmas light in a dark world and she brings plenty of that to our episode today! Make yourself cozy an...
2021-07-051h 05
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Hallmark Christmas Movie Episode, (or, How I Fell in Love with Lacey Chabert) with special guest Rachel McMillanHappy Christmas in July everyone!! If you love Christmas movies, especially Hallmark, then this is the episode you must listen to. I have on author Rachel McMillan, author of the book "A Very Merry Holiday Movie Guide". She's back to talk about Hallmark Christmas movies with me, and gives us some ideas on how and where to watch the coziest Christmas movies ever made. Then I read a poem called December by John Clare. There's a contest going for Christmas in July going on, I will give one lucky listener a handmade Christmas coffee cup cozy so...
2021-06-3052 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy Christmas Horn of PlentyThere's a little something for everyone in this Cozy Christmas cornucopia of Christmas cheer! I talk a bit about the antique festival in our town, share some happy news from a listener, talk about Christmas in Iran, and I have a special guest read today's story! Martin Achatz from the Lit for Christmas podcast stops by to read his essay, Gloop Christmas. Also I announce a new Christmas in July Contest that begins today! 0:00 Introduction 2:18 Walnut’s Antique Weekend 4:00 Happy Father’s Day - Listener Memory 5:28 Listener Memory - Christmas in Iran...
2021-06-2135 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastJoanne's Christmas Mystery by Ellis Parker ButlerHello everyone! This episode was supposed to be out last week but due to Graduations and crazy life stuff it got delayed until today. Today's episode I talk about the book Christmas: A Biography, and then read you another story by Ellis Parker Butler. In today's story Joanne is home from school for the Christmas holidays. She's hoping for a nice, relaxing rest but her next door neighbor and prankster Tommy Bassick might have something to say about that... Find out what happens to her on Christmas morning in this delightful and cozy Christmas story!
2021-06-0752 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastIt Takes a (Christmas) VillageMerry Christmas - Today's episode will be an interview with Bill from thevillagecollector.com. You can also find him on the forums over at mymerrychristmas.com. I love Christmas villages and I'm excited to have Bill back with us. In the interview we chat about his website and what will be going on there this year. We talk about some trends in collecting and his on going hobby of collecting the best videos of Christmas villages. Whether you are a collector or just an admirer of Christmas villages, you won't want to miss this episode! ...
2021-05-1735 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Dangers of Regifting: The Canned Plum Pudding by Ellis Parker ButlerHappy May! In today's episode, I share a new segment called "This (Christmas) Day in History"... we go back to Christmas 1990 and learn about the creation of the World Wide Web - is that the best Christmas present ever? Then Gracie and I chat about her birthday, and then we play a Christmas Trivia Game - who do you think will win? Finally, I read a Christmas story entitled, "The Canned Plum Pudding" by Ellis Parker Butler. Have you ever had a regifting experience that went horribly wrong? Let this story serve as a lesson...
2021-05-0348 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastAn Easter Carol by Charles Dickens with guest Gina DalfonzoThe Long-Awaited, Over Due Easter Episode is here... and since the Eastern Orthodox Church apparently doesn't recognize Easter until May 2nd... I guess it's still early? Anyway, in today's episode I have author and blogger Gina Dalfonzo on to talk about Dickens' The Life of Our Lord, and we end up chatting about A Tale of Two Cities... though I don't mention it in the podcast, I think Tale of Two Cities might qualify as an "Easter Carol" - a great story to read every year at Easter time! I also finish reading The Life...
2021-04-201h 03
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas in Rudolph, NY with author Vicki Delany"God rest ye murdered gentlemen let nothing you dismay..." Can a murder mystery be cozy? It can when in the capable hands of author Vicki Delany and her cozy mystery series, The Year-Round Christmas Mystery series. We head to Canada for a wonderful chat about her books. Unfortunately Rudolph, NY, where the series is set and Christmas is celebrated year round, is NOT a real place... but a Christmas podcast host can dream, right? And besides, who wouldn't want to catch a sight of Santa in his swimsuit, am I right?.... Hello? Anyone? Just me? ...
2021-04-031h 02
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Life of Our Lord: A Brief Look at the Gospel According to DickensHappy Easter month, to those who celebrate! In today's episode I talk a little bit about Charles Dickens' gospel, The Life of Our Lord, that he wrote for his children. Since this is primarily a Christmas podcast, I read from his chapters about the birth and early life of Christ. I also share a listener's thoughts about a different perspective on A Christmas Carol, give a book recommendation for this month's Cozy Christmas Book Corner, and I share a memory of mine that explains why the carol "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" has haunted my nightmares.
2021-03-2229 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastConnor the Reindeer? (and More Holly Jolly Fun with Grace)Winter is in full swing, and Grace and I have the giggles today. I ask her some Holly Jolly Christmas questions and they quickly spiral into moments of laughter as we're interrupted by her Teddy Bears, we try to figure out the names of Santa's reindeer, and I'm reminded how nice a kid she is when I ask her the question: if you could have any gift on your wishlist what would it be? Her answer surprised me! I also share another listener memory from Rick, and how the song "Downtown" puts him in a Christmas mood...
2021-02-2248 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas with Mr. PickwickWelcome to the start of season 2! In today's episode, I share with you what has been keeping me in the Christmas mood (hint: snow, cookies, and music); Then I share an email from our listener Rick who writes to tell about his favorite Christmas movies - and he has some shocking and very strict guidelines on what counts as a Christmas movie. Then, I read the Christmas chapter from Charles Dickens' first novel, The Pickwick Papers. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and come on in by the fire! Timestamps 0:00 Introduction
2021-02-0840 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastFeliz Navidad! A Christmas 2020 RecapIt's the final episode of the 2020 Christmas season, and we've got a full and fun episode ahead. I read another great memory from our listener Rick... we learn that sometimes gift giving can be a fun, but complicated, process. Then I interview Manny, the host of the Feliz Christmas Merry Navidad podcast and we talk about his podcast, paying it forward, and the magic of Santa. After that, Gracie and I talk about her Christmas and some of the Teddy Bears she got, a couple of snow storms we experienced, and a (Covid Safe) Christmas...
2021-01-191h 06
A Cozy Christmas PodcastJólabókaflóð: The Christmas Book FloodLook out everyone, it's a flood of books! In today's episode I look at two different Christmas traditions - Jólabókaflóð the Icelandic celebration of books at Christmas, and Epiphany, the holiday that commemorates the Magi's visit to the baby Jesus. In the Jólabókaflóð segment, I participate in the Christmas Carol Book Tag prompt in which I answer 8 Christmas Carol inspired questions about books. In the Epiphany segment, I read the account of the Magi from Matthew Chapter 2, and then I read a couple of poems by Cecil Frances Alexander: "Once in Royal Dav...
2021-01-0940 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy Christmas Clatter with guest Todd KillianIn today's episode, Todd Killian from Christmas Clatter stops by and we enjoy a cozy chat. (This is the full interview that you heard a portion of in the Christmas Extravaganza episode.) Todd and I talk about: -podcasting -working at the USPS -The Weather, Family, and Christmas -The Killian Family Cookie Day -Christmas Trees -An exclusive never-before-told Todd Killian Christmas memory! -I also share a story with Todd about why my sister sends me a penny at Christmas. Check out Todd's podcast...
2020-12-2854 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Super Awesome Christmas Podcasters Christmas Extravaganza 2020!!!!Merry Christmas everyone! Come on in, the Cozy Christmas Podcast is ready for an exciting Christmas celebration! I've gathered together some of our favorite podcasters to celebrate the best day of the year! Manny from Feliz Christmas Merry Navidad is reporting live from the North Pole. What do you think he'll see while he's there? We also have musical guests, some stories, and a lot of Christmas cheer. So come on in and enjoy the show! And Merry Christmas! Timestamps: 1:02 Commercial: Waist Watchers 2:07 On Location with Manny, part 1
2020-12-2359 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastGet Your Christmas On!/Polka Will Never Die!We have a tale of two musicians today in this 2nd part from yesterday's Cozy Christmas Music episode. First up is singer/songwriter Lucas Morgan. He is 17yo high school student who has just made his first album, called "Get Your Christmas On". It was so fun talking to a young man who knows what he wants to do and is going after it with passion. We chat about his album, his favorite music, and Christmas! Keep an eye on this kid - I think he's going to do great things! You can find his...
2020-12-2059 minA Cozy Christmas PodcastCozy Christmas Music (with special guest Scott Newman)It's time to relax and take a deep breath and listen to music! Scott from the Jingle Jank podcast stops by to share some cozy Christmas songs and it will put you in the mood to stare out your window watching it snow all day... Gracie and I get together to do a mad-lib version of a letter to Santa, and I surprise Gracie by telling her that I am going to mail it to Santa. You won't believe what she ends up asking Santa for Christmas. Jingle Jank Podcast Help support the...
2020-12-1955 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastHave yourself a Totally Rad Christmas with Gerry DavillaHave yourself a Totally Rad Christmas, Dudes! Today's guest is THE Gerry Davilla from A Totally Rad Christmas, and as you can tell right from the beginning, this episode is far out and gnarly and... all those other 1980's terms I can't remember. It begins with my very worst impression of one of my very favorite podcasters... and it derails from there... as you'll hear in the interview, I left all the bloopers in. :-) Gerry and I get together and we laughed a lot, we told stories, we talked about movies, about the 80's...
2020-12-171h 10
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Carol with Gerald DickensThe 2nd part of the Christmas Carol episode - and we're going back to the theater, sort of... Charles Dickens died in 1870 but his legacy continues on strongly to this day. He is often synonymous with Christmas, and for good reason. 150 years after his death, Charles' great-great grandson Gerald Dickens keeps the family legacy going by performing in one man theatrical performances of A Christmas Carol and other works of Dickens. Today Gerald stops by to chat about the story, Charles Dickens, Christmas, and the film version of his one man play that he just...
2020-12-1459 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Redemption of Scrooge (with Author Gina Dalfonzo)It's Part 1 of a 2 Part episode focused on A Christmas Carol! In today's episode, I sit down with author Gina Dalfonzo and talk about the theme of redemption in A Christmas Carol. She had a new book published this year called The Gospel in Dickens, and if you're interested in the theology of Charles Dickens you should check it out. So come on in, sit down by the Christmas fire as we discuss some of the theology found in A Christmas Carol. And stay tuned for the next episode - it's dropping on...
2020-12-1247 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastIt's Christmas Time... Already? with special guest Johanna JonesIt's Christmas time everyone! And Grace and I get the opportunity to interview singer Johanna Jones about her new album "It's Christmastime"... the album is out already, (which I completely flubbed on, blame it on the COVID brain I had at the time lol!) and it's available everywhere. (See link below!) Then Grace and I discuss our thoughts about the new interactive Zoom play put on by the Birmingham Children's Theater. And finally I read a couple of selections from Nancy Carey Johnson's book A Vermont Homesteader's Christmas Memories. Christmastime is here, whether you are...
2020-12-1055 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Very Merry Holiday Movie Guide with Rachel McMillanPack your bags and grab your movie popcorn we're going to Canada... I visit with author and Christmas movie lover Rachel McMillan and her new book "A Very Merry Holiday Movie Guide"! If you have a movie fan in your life - especially fans of Hallmark Christmas movies, this book is a great gift idea. Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089K2BVBW/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1 Rachel McMillan's Website: https://www.rachelmcmillan.net/ I also read an entry from my wife's blog who is writing some advent reflections t...
2020-12-0755 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Birmingham Children's Theatre Saves Christmas (with Guests Sina Skates and Alex Alex Ungerman)I have more fun than is allowed interviewing playwright Sina Skates and Director Alex Ungerman of The Birmingham Children's Theatre. This year they are not letting COVID stop them from entertaining children and have put together an interactive play called ELVES: The Experience that will be hosted over Zoom. Grace and I will give a review of the play in an upcoming episode, but for now, enjoy this energetic discussion of their play, the theatre, and, of course, Christmas! Be sure to check out the show notes too as I have a lot of links mentioned in...
2020-12-0443 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas Presence with Rehya Stevens(This episode was delayed because of COVID, and was supposed to air before Thanksgiving. That's why you'll hear me talk about Thanksgiving as if it were still coming.) No, not presents... PRESENCE. In today's episode I interview singer songwriter Rehya Stevens. We talk about her album Celebrate and we have a lot of laughs sharing Christmas memories. We talk about the importance of giving our presence - that's with a "c" not "t"! - and being there for our family and each other this during this difficult time. This is one of the most enjoyable...
2020-11-301h 26
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Cozy ThanksgivingGrab a plate of turkey, stuffing and gravy and enjoy this extra cozy episode! I interview Brian Earl from the Christmas Past Podcast, and we chat about the origins of our podcasts, Christmas (of course!), and in the time-honored Thanksgiving tradition we share what we are thankful. Even though it's been a rough year for everyone, we find we have a lot to be thankful for. I hope you do too! Then I read Louisa May Alcott's story, An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving. The Basset children are left on their own for a night before Thanksgiving when their p...
2020-11-261h 25
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Simple Christmas (with guest Nancy Carey Johnson)Are you in the mood for a simple Christmas? In this episode, I have a phone interview with author Nancy Carey Johnson and talk about her book "The Vermont Homesteader's Christmas Memories". We talk about her book, homesteading, Christmas music, pets and we share heartwarming stories of family, friends, and Jolly the Christmas dog. It's a conversation you won't want to miss! And her book is full of many more wonderful stories. Gracie and I have a chat about our hopes for Thanksgiving... she wants to see her Grandma and Grandpa, and I want to eat my...
2020-11-2053 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastKindness, Hope, and a Dash of Christmas Magic (with guest CJ Livingstone)In today's episode, listener Mackenzie shares a memory of her Black Friday tradition. Then I interview author CJ Livingstone of the new Christmas book "Santa, Inc." We talk about his book, Christmas, and the power of kindness. Finally, I read Louisa May Alcott's story "Tilly's Christmas" which continues the theme of showing the power of kindness. So with kindness, hope, and a dash of Christmas magic, I believe we can change the world! 00:30 Listener Memory 03:25 Interview with CJ Livingstone and Review of Santa, Inc 37:30 Christmas Story: Tilly's Christmas, by Louisa May...
2020-11-1653 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Creative Little ChristmasHold on to your hats, I'm talking to three guests today! There is a great community of Christmas fans that gather together on mymerrychristmas.com. Today I interview three of members of the website community that have used their creative talents to bring Christmas cheer. I speak to Bill from thevillagecollector.com. He is a collector of Christmas villages and has an amazing website that showcases all of the decorative talents he and others have done over the years. We talk about his website, Christmas villages, and share some great family Christmas memories. T...
2020-11-101h 36
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Stress Free Christmas with Lisa SharpDoes the thought of planning Christmas stress you out? Are you a master procrastinator like me? Lisa is stopping by the show with some help from her website thestressfreechristmas.com. We chat about that and share some wonderful Christmas memories. Other highlights from the show - I share some Christmas memories that reminds me the holidays can be difficult for some people but the love of family brings us back together. Gracie and I try out some pumpkin pie pretzels (yuck!) and chocolate chip cookie brownies (sooooo yummy) and chat about Christmas, our porch swing, a...
2020-11-031h 00
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Goblins Who Stole a SextonStories for Halloween, Vol 1, Part 3 The Goblins Who Stole a Sexton by Charles Dickens. Happy Halloween! The final story in our trilogy of terror and weirdness comes from Charles Dickens. Gabriel Grub is a mean old sexton, and we find him digging a grave late on Christmas Eve. What could possibly go wrong? This has been a fun way to celebrate Halloween during quarantine, and also to read some classic scary Christmas stories. I'll have a new regular episode out on Monday! Stay safe, and eat lots of candy for me tonight. Episode...
2020-10-3130 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Kidnapped Santa ClausA Kidnapped Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum Enjoy this classic Christmas story that has a dash of Halloween. Every year Santa brings toys to all the good girls and boys of the world. He is beloved by many. But there are a few who would love to see Santa fall... Who would be nasty enough to want to see Santa gone? Say hello to the Daemons of Selfishness, Envy, Hatred, Malice, and Repentance. Santa better watch out! Additional material quoted: Excerpt from "The Halloween Tree" (c) 1972 by Ray Bradbury
2020-10-3025 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastThe Tapestried ChamberCozy Christmas Podcast Presents a Special Presentation! In the first of three special episodes for Halloween week, I read the classic 1829 ghost story "The Tapestried Chamber" by Sir Walter Scott. "When General Browne's friend invites him to spend the week at his home, he's delighted to oblige—that is, until he spends a night in the tapestried chamber!" We invite you to sit back, relax, and turn down the lights... and enjoy this story for Halloween! Music for the show: Kevin MacLeod Atlantean Twilight by Kevin MacLeod is...
2020-10-2836 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastSanta is Stuck in a Snowglobe!Welcome to another episode! Today I share a memory from the winner of the Scrooge Ornament, then I have an Interview with children's author Kathryn Burgess. She has a great new story to help kids deal with seeing Santa in a safe way this year. Gracie and I are on the search for more treats and this time we make some cinnamon and sugar chips and talk about Christmas, COVID, and a few laughs. Then I read a Christmas excerpt from Charles Dickens' book, The Pickwick Papers. If you're subscribed to the podcast, be on the look...
2020-10-2639 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas in Space!Halloween and Christmas meet together in space! Today's episode is an interview with author and classic science fiction/fantasy author Ray Bradbury's official biographer, Sam Weller. He has just published a new collection of gothic short stories called Dark Black. It's a book that will get you into the Halloween mood! There's also a new audio drama podcast called The Way We Haunt Now. https://hauntnowpod.com/ In the episode we talk about these two short stories - if you'd like to read them you can find them online. They are pretty short and won't...
2020-10-201h 01
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas in AustraliaG'day mate! (Hmmm... do Australians really say that?) In this episode, Gracie is back and we make a delicious apple pie. Unfortunately we can't share any of it, but you can make one with this recipe: https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/dutch-apple-pie/815d821f-058d-4177-93be-e157390e947b Pro-cooking tip: Don't forget to preheat your oven! Being the expert chef that I am, I would never do that. Heh. Then a listener from Australia shares a Christmas memory, and I try (and fail) to list any interesting facts about the land Down Under. I...
2020-10-1253 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastBilly's Santa Claus Experience (and Other Things that Go Wrong)Sometimes our best intentions go awry... but at least we're making memories! There's an unwritten rule of podcasting that if your new podcast can make it past the 7th episode, then you're more likely to keep it going for the long haul. Well this is the 7th episode, and the Technical Dragons were running amuck. Fear not! I have defeated them, and I will be back for episode 8. But at least it fits in with the theme of today's podcast: Christmases that don't go exactly as planned... Show Links: Merry Little Bexmas channel...
2020-10-0326 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastChristmas Shopping with Jack BennyThis is a bonus episode... kind of. In the next episode I'll be talking more about Old Time Radio and this episode of the Jack Benny program that I'll be sharing with you today, but I thought you might like to hear it in its entirety. So sit back and enjoy as we make our way back to the days of yesteryear... Other show notes: Email a Christmas memory cozychristmaspodcast@gmail.com Do it by Oct 15th and you'll be entered to win a Christmas ornament: https://twitter.com/CozyXmasPod/status/1306695022981582848 ...
2020-09-2635 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastPuzzles, Poems... and Santa with a Stick?Ways to get a Free Sticker and entry into a drawing for a hand-painted ornament: Send me an email or a voice message talking about some of your favorite Christmas memories to cozychristmaspodcast@gmail.com You can also get bonus entries into the contest for becoming a financial supporter of the podcast at https://ko-fi.com/cozychristmas Contest Ends on October 15th! I'd love to hear some new Christmas music: My Merry Christmas Forums: https://mymerrychristmas.com/forum/threads/favorite-christmas-music.222673/page-3#post-1287769 Christmas is Here by Anthem Lights https://www...
2020-09-1537 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Dickens Family ChristmasHappy Last Day of August! Fall is just around the corner. In today's episode Gracie and I do some snack taste testing and play a game of Never Have I Ever - Christmas edition. Then, I finish up looking at Charles Dickens' short story A Christmas Dinner. Then I read some portions from Mamie Dickens' "My Father as I Recall Him" in which she describes their Christmas celebrations. Finally, I share some personal memories of my grandparents. If you would like to help the show out financially, head over to Ko-fi.com/cozychristmas...
2020-08-3157 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Christmas Dinner with Mr. DickensHappy August everyone! In today's episode I talk Christmas. Obviously. Also, I will be focusing on Charles Dickens this month and to start off I will be giving you a brief intro to his early life. Then I read his first Christmas story, A Christmas Dinner! In the next episode, we'll talk more about the story. But in the meantime, I hope you enjoy Mr. Dickens' first Christmas story. Music: "Let's Just Get Through Christmas," by Doctor Turtle, from the Free Music Archive.
2020-08-1425 min
A Cozy Christmas PodcastA Rural Iowa Christmas... and Frozen Hot Chocolate!I could not wait to get this episode to you! I share with you some exciting Christmas online resources to help bring some jolly to your summer months - as well as a website that will help organize your Christmas plans. Then I share a Christmas memory from the 1920s. Finally, Gracie and I head into the kitchen to whip up some frozen hot chocolate. Will it be tasty and refreshing? Tune in to find out! I also need your help: I want to hear from you! Send me an email, a voice recording, or post about...
2020-07-3130 min
A Cozy Christmas Podcast01 Introducing the Cozy Christmas Podcast!In this first episode, I introduce myself and give you a general idea of what the podcast will be about. Then my daughter and I answer those Very Important Christmas Questions, like: What’s your favorite Christmas movie? We also have a mild disagreement as to when it’s OK to start listening to Christmas music. I also talk briefly about my favorite Christmas story, and give some shout outs to several podcasts that helped inspire me to make my own. Deck the Halls by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution licen...
2020-07-1417 min