Jason Weiser - Podcast Details

Shows

Myths and Legends 322-Norwegian Folklore: Ask Dad Just ask dad Two Norwegian tales of asking dad. All seven of them. Who live in the same house. Or might not have a house to go back to, depending on the story. The creature is the orc! It is both different from the Lord of the Rings orc and very currently a problem! * * * Storage Soles: https://myths.link/storagesoles Membership: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership Billy B's version of the Orc: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orc_(Blake) If you're on Mastodon, come say hi: https://weiser.social/@jaso...

2023-06-1434 min

Myths and Legends 316-French Fairy Tales: Right MeowWhat happens when you see something you can't live without? A thing you desire so strongly that you can't stop thinking about it. Do you give up everything to try to get it? Maybe? But if what you're willing to give up is your child and the thing you desire is fruit from the garden...maybe rethink your priorities. It's the story of "The White Cat" by Madame d'Aulnoy, and in addition to questionable parenting, there are quests, dwarves that are just doing their job, evil fairies, and cat ballet. The creature this time is Adar Ll...

2023-04-1944 min

Myths and Legends New Podcast: Myths and Legends, now in Spanish!Sonoro and Nextpod (that’s Jason and Carissa Weiser!) present Mitos y Leyendas. The acclaimed podcast about mythology and worldwide folklore, now in Spanish. Listen, learn, and subscribe today on your favorite podcast platform to catch all the episodes every week. Available now! To listen directly on Apple Podcasts: https://play.sonoropodcast.com/LFm7oyx7 Nextpod.com Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2022-05-2307 min

Myths and Legends WE HAVE A NEW PODCAST! SCOUNDREL: HISTORY'S FORGOTTEN VILLAINS IS AVAILABLE NOW!From Jason and Carissa Weiser, the hosts of Myths and Legends, comes Scoundrel: History's Forgotten Villains. History consists of heroes and villains (and, I suppose everything in between)... but it's usually the villains who are the most interesting: Their flaws, their quirks, the voids in their hearts that force them to do the unthinkable. These are the characters that fascinate us, that pull us in, that compel us to watch and don’t let us look away. And these are the characters that Scoundrel: History’s Forgotten Villains is all about. Scoundrel, is a new bi-weekly anthology podcast from Kast Med...

2022-02-2313 min

Myths and Legends 195-Greek Myths: Stranger DangerDionysus was the god of wine from Greek myths and the last Olympian to earn a place on Mount Olympus. His story starts with him being born from Zeus's thigh...and then somehow gets stranger. He does make a lot of really fun, dangerously intense fans among the humans, though. The creature is the Tenjoname! He's a helpful ghost who will clean your ceilings with his filthy tongue! Check out the ad-free membership: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership -- Sponsors: Indeed: Try Indeed out with a free $75 credit at...

2020-09-0943 min

Myths and Legends 194-Mulan: The WarriorA completely new version of the Mulan legend, sourced from a story from the late middle ages, so even if you think you know the Mulan story, this version has twists and turns that make her big secret, that she's a woman pretending to be a man, the least of her worries. The creature is the Manticore! It's terrifying, but not for the reasons that it should be terrifying! The episode post (and horrifying pictures of the Manticore): https://myths.link/194 The earlier Mulan episode based off "The Ballad of Mulan": https://myths...

2020-09-0247 min

Myths and Legends 193B-Monkey King: Pilgrim's ProgressWe're on the road with the monk, Xuanzang, and Monkey King, Sun Wukong, as they start their Journey to the West... that is, if Sun Wukong is coming back from taking off in a huff (he is). Once he gets back, the trip won't be without problems, though, like river dragons, murderous monks, and bear ogre birthday parties. -- Sponsors: We think it's the best in home security. Give it a shot with free shipping and a 60-day risk-free trial at http://simplisafe.com/legends Preparing for a standardized test? Go to http://magoosh.com...

2020-08-2643 min

Myths and Legends 193A-Monkey King: Golden CicadaWe return to the stories of the Monkey King and pick up at the end of his long imprisonment under a mountain, for trying to overthrow everyone and everything. Meanwhile, a messenger from heaven is on the move, looking for a pilgrim to make a dangerous journey that will bring them into contact with demons, monsters, and companions to help him along the way...who might just be more dangerous than anything on the road. --- Show post: https://myths.links/193a Check out the Myths and Legends store at http://www.mythpodcast.com...

2020-08-1948 min

Myths and Legends 192-Grimm: Brave TravelerAn off-the-wall story from the Grimm Brothers about a young man who knew no fear...and why that was a massive problem for him. The creature is a man who you don't want to high five. Mainly because he has eyeballs on his palms. Also mainly because he'll drink your bones with a straw. -- Disclaimer: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14487/192-grimm-brave-traveler/ -- Music: "The Consulate" by Blue Dot Sessions “Scary Sounds” by Bobby Cole “Storm Passing” by Podington Bear "Relinquish" by Podington Bear "Demon Dollhouse" by Bruce Zimmerman "Nervous Whisp" by Blue Dot Sessions "Sorrento"...

2020-08-1242 min

Myths and Legends 191-Norse Legends: See How they FlyIn this episode from Norse legends, we'll see that the worst breakups involve Thor breaking up the couple with his hammer and we'll see that even though Odin can shapeshift, that doesn't mean he skips the conditioner. It's the Saga of King Gautrek, a story spanning generations of Viking warriors and their bizarre and dangerous interactions with the gods, giants, elves, and everything in between (but mostly just those three). The creature this week likes to drill holes in your boat with its nose. Hope you don't mind awkward tickle sessions... -- Music: "...

2020-08-0543 min

Myths and Legends 190-Chinese Folklore: FierceIn one story, a dragon is rampaging around the countryside unless he gets his favorite meal: teenage girls. In the other, a young woman trapped in an impossible situation meets a new friend who might just be able to save her: a parrot with a secret. Two stories with two very different heroines who share one defining characteristic: their unbreakable will to survive. On the creature of the week, when it comes to making a deal with the devil, you could choose infinite wealth, power, or epic guitar skills...or you could do what the strix did and...

2020-07-2945 min

Myths and Legends 189C-Nibelungenlied: I Know It Was YouIn the third and final part of our series on the Nibelungenlied, the hero of the story, Siegfried, is dead and his wife, the princess, has a score to settle. The creature this week is the strong toad, a super cool toad who can read your mind, but he's so nice and definitely not making me write this right now. -- Music: "Prayer" by Enzo Orefice "Plasticity" by Blue Dot Sessions "Clockwork by Michele Nobler" "Kreis" by Luis Berra "Chain link" by Blue Dot Sessions "A Florentine Story" by Michele Nobler "Cicle Deserrat" by Blue Dot Ses...

2020-07-2242 min

Myths and Legends 189B-Nibelungenlied: HeinousWe pick up right where we left off last week: Gunther has tricked his way into marrying Brunhild, and Brunhild decided to give him a minor test of strength on their wedding night. He failed, and ended up naked and hog-tied, yelling out for help while dangling upside down from the rafters. The creature is the Tsurube-otoshi (釣瓶落とし), from Japan, who will go head-to-head with you in the forest. Because its a giant head. -- Disclaimer: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14462/189b-nibelungenlied-heinous/ -- Music: "Two boys and a girl" by Podington Bear "Places" by Michael Vignola "Sh...

2020-07-1535 min

Myths and Legends 189A-Medieval Legends: Cheater CheaterThe story starts out with one prince slaying a dragon and getting rich. It starts there. The wild ride of the Nibelungenlied has echoes of one of our most beloved stories, the Saga of the Volsungs, with it's over-the-top characters, the ridiculous situations, the betrayals, and, yes, dragon fights. The creature is a dragon cat with poison breath. -- Music: "Order of Entrance" by Blue Dot Sessions "Palladian" by Blue Dot Sessions "Highway 430" by Blue Dot Sessions "Ranch Hand" by Blue Dot Sessions "Elegant Weasel" by Blue Dot Sessions "Searching for Hope" by Neil Cross "...

2020-07-0836 min

Myths and Legends 188-The Flea: Forever HomeTwo stories from the bawdy, funny, and oftentimes deeply unsettling 17th century fairytale author Giambattista Basile, both of which have to do with pets. The first pet is a rooster, whose owner just can't bring himself to kill it. No judgement there. The second pet is a flea...the size of a lamb. The creature this week is a cat that's either evil and smells like a skunk dog, a hero who defeated a demon, or a hunter who needs a toothbrush. -- Music: "Cake" by Podington Bear "Quatrefoil" by Podington Bear "Scaffoldings" by Podington Bear "Lea...

2020-07-0141 min

Myths and Legends 187-Greek Myths: The End to All Our PainAgamemnon is coming home from the Trojan War. He has no idea what's waiting for him. There are over fifty bonus episodes on the Myths and Legends bonus feed! Check out that and weekly ad-free shows at https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership Check out the store at https://shop.bardic.fm Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mythsandlegends Find the episode post and the disclaimer at https://www.mythpodcast.com/14441/187-greek-myths-the-end-to-all-our-pain/ -- Music: "Deadly recitation" by blue dot sessions "Leadin" by Blue Dot Sessions "Thin Passage" by Bl...

2020-06-2437 min

Myths and Legends 186-Grimm: Don't Be WeirdA story from the Grimm brothers about three down-on-their-luck soldiers who get everything they could ever dream of and then do their absolutely best to lose it. The extended creature of the week is a fearsome critter from Colorado - a land whale called the Slide Rock Bolter who exclusively eats tourists who care about the environment. The Myths and Legends store is up! Check it out at http://www.mythpodcast.com/store Get access to over 50 member episodes and weekly ad-free shows: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership -- Music: "Little Door" by Podington Be...

2020-06-1736 min

Myths and Legends 185-Queen of Serpents: With This Hiss I Thee WedThe story of Eglė the Queen of Serpents, from Lithuanian folklore, about a young woman who is faced with an impossible choice: witness the destruction of her family...or marry a snake. The creature is a wet, inebriated chicken named skrat who will either make you rich or burn down your house or both of those things. -- Music: "Delamine" by Blue Dot Sessions "Tiny Bottles" by Blue Dot Sessions "Donnalee" by Blue Dot Sessions "At our Best Alone" by Blue Dot Sessions "Basketliner" by Blue Dot Sessions Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/me...

2020-06-1036 min

Myths and Legends 184-Robin Hood: Check, Please!We return to the Robin Hood stories with a (mostly) standalone episode. Robin Hood and his merry men are throwing a dinner party! With food and wine! And robbery! The creature is a shirtless Jaguar man who can end the world anytime he feels like. -- Music: "Pat-a-Pan Whistles and Drums" by Craig S. Elliott "The Gall" by Podington Bear "Miss You" by Podington Bear "Andante in e minor" by Matthew Fagan "The Consulate" by Blue Dot Sessions "Medieval Ritual" by Adrian Ellis Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2020-06-0333 min

Myths and Legends 183-Indian folklore: RevenantThe story of an ancient Indian king who goes on a fetch quest through an evil-looking cemetery and listens to the worst podcasts of all time...hosted by a ghoul he has slung over his shoulder, and if he doesn't pay attention, he could die. The creature is a crow-grasshopper who will make you vomit (if it doesn't kill you with its flatulence) Fictional: https://www.fictional.fm/subscribe -- "Night Watch" by Blue Dot Sessions "I Recall" by Blue Dot Sessions "Soft Horror Piano Drone" by Bobby Cole "Relinquish" by Podington Bear "We...

2020-05-2745 min

Myths and Legends 182-Slavic folklore: The Brave CompanionsJoin Bulat the Brave Companion and Ivan Tsarevich (no, not that one) as they get a magical new horse, escape magical prison, and get in some magical fights. The creature is the shōkera, the slimy guy looking in your window right now. -- Music: "Kaleidoscope" by Podington Bear "Exploring the Cave Mix Full" by Bobby Cole "Vanagon" by Podington Bear "Setting Pace" by Blue Dot Sessions "Kalsted" by Blue Dot Sessions "The Hero Within (No Drums)" by Bobby Cole "Holding Hands" by Podington Bear Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2020-05-2036 min

Myths and Legends 181B-Mabinogion: With Friends Like TheseBranch two of the Mabinogion has the kings of Great Britain and Ireland (Bran and Matholwch, respectively) just wanting to bro out, but their nobles and family members will do anything to keep that from happening. Also, why is there never a sundae bar in the wine cellar? Episode post: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14215/181b-mabinogion-with-friends-like-these/ -- Music: "Last Winter" by Zac Nelson "Louver" by Blue Dot Sessions "Medieval Ritual" by Adrian Ellis "Talltell" by Blue Dot Sessions "Ghost in the Piano" by Emanuele Dentoni "Forgotten" by Keith Anthony Holden "The Ones You Know (Underscore Version)" by...

2020-05-1336 min

Myths and Legends 181A-Welsh Legends: OtherworldKing Pwyell just wants to go hunting in the dark forest alone. What's the worst that can happen? Huh? Forced to live for a year away from his people at the demand of an otherworldly king? Yeah, ok, that's kind of bad. It's the first branch of the Mabinogion, the original source for a few of the stories we've told on this podcast, like the very first story from this podcast, that of Yvain and the lady of the fountain. We're finally diving into this amazing work of Welsh folklore and over the next two weeks we'll be c...

2020-05-0640 min

Myths and Legends 180-Azorean Folklore: PowerThe story from Azorean folklore about a sorcerer who turned his life around. He became a priest, helped his people flee, and then faced a choice when his old life came hunting for him. The creature is a dirty dish towel named the Shirouneri. Like most towels it's actively trying to show you just how much it hates you. Show post (and disclaimer): https://www.mythpodcast.com/14203/180-azorean-folklore-power/ -- Music: "The Theatrical Poster for Poltergeist III" by Chris Zabriskie “03. Prelude No. 3” by Chris Zabriskie "49th Street Galleria" by Chris Zabriskie “Vik Fence Haflak”...

2020-04-2938 min

Myths and Legends 179-Slavic legends: Grateful DeadA classic quest from Slavic legend with princesses, dragons, wizards, dragons fighting wizards, and princesses fighting wizards fighting dragons. The creature is Shamir, the little craftsman who is up for employee of the millennium. -- Post: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14197/179-slavic-legends-grateful-dead/ -- Music: "Solemn Oath" by Podington Bear "Setting Out on a Quest" by Bobby Cole "The French Theatre of Doom" by Bobby Cole “Big Feelings” by Podington Bear "Storm Passing" by Podington Bear "Pounded Piano" by Podington Bear “Winter Walk” by Podington Bear Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2020-04-2235 min

Myths and Legends 178-Tanuki: ChangesAn episode about the Tanuki, the notorious raccoon-dog trickster from Japan with giant...well...you'll see. The creature is the Tote Road Shagamaw, and a ManBearMoose who is really good at headstands. Like, it can walk a quarter mile doing a headstand. Show post, with all those pictures (and the disclaimer): https://www.mythpodcast.com/14180/178-tanuki-changes/ -- Music: “Lina my Queen” by Blue Dot Sessions “Detailing” by Blue Dot Sessions “The Callow” by Blue Dot Sessions “Fermin Canyon” by Blue Dot Sessions “Tillis County” by Blue Dot Sessions “True Blue Sky” by Blue Dot Sessions “Slimhe...

2020-04-1545 min

Myths and Legends 177D-Trojan War: Horsin' AroundThe Greeks finally find a way into Troy and while, yes, it's exactly the way you think they get in, there are so many ridiculous side quests on the way, including a cameo from one of Greek myth's most famous hero. The creature is nice unicorn who will play music for you and definitely won't eat you the moment your guard is down. Want more? We did two member episodes with about four additional stories about the Trojan War. Check them out here: https://www.mythpodcast.com/member-episode-list/ (scroll down the bottom to become a member...

2020-04-081h 01

Myths and Legends 177C-Trojan War: When I am GoneAchilles is back and it's god vs. god, Greek vs. Trojan, Achilles vs. Hector in the most epic battle of the Trojan War. The creature this week, the Seto taishō, will absolutely come after you with a sharpened spoon. His weakness? Light kicks. Episode post: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14155/177c-trojan-war-when-i-am-gone/ -- Music: “Watercool Quiet” by Blue Dot Sessions “Thunder Comes” by Will Van De Crommert “Gilroy Solo” by Blue Dot Sessions “Feel the Tension” by Bobby Cole “Order of Entrance” by Blue Dot Sessions “War Action Orchestra” by Denis Kotenko “Battle on the Beach” by Bobby Cole “Lady Lupine” b...

2020-04-0152 min

Myths and Legends 177B-Trojan War: Storm of SpearsThe episode starts with Menelaus sparking the biggest battle of the war so far and ends with an even bigger battle. A lot happens as the Trojan War, with the absence of Achilles, takes its darkest turn yet. The creature is Amabie! A mermaid with great hair who just wants to help you out. Episode post (with Amabie links): https://www.mythpodcast.com/14149/177b-trojan-war-storm-of-spears/ -- Music: "Paper Boat" by Podington Bear "Secret Pocketbook" by Blue Dot Sessions Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2020-03-2546 min

Myths and Legends 177A-Trojan War: Rage“Sing, O muse, of the rage of Achilles, son of Peleus, that brought countless ills upon the Achaeans.” We're here. The culmination of a dozen episodes and twice as many stories has led to this. Achilles. Helen. Agamemnon. Menelaus. Hector. Odysseus. There's a reason these names are still with us after thousands of years. This is the story of the Trojan War. The creature is pretty much the opposite of an epic, brutal war. It's the not-epic, not-intimidating little Tofu boy! The episode post with the listening list: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14142/177a-trojan-war-rage/ ...

2020-03-1849 min

Myths and Legends 176-The Emperor's New Clothes: MatchlessThree stories this week from the Danish fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen about people that are matchless. The first is the tale of the emperor and his new clothes, where an emperor who needs a new coat every hour gets an offer he can't refuse. The second is about a boy who wants to marry the daughter of a monarch and all the cool gadgets and racially insensitive cosplaying he'll do to win her hand, and the third is the story of the little match girl. That one literally has matches in it. I still do puns.

2020-03-1137 min

Myths and Legends 175-Thor: SurprisesThor’s daughter is getting married to a dwarf, and Thor is the last person to find out about it. Also he punted a dwarf onto a burning ship for fun at his brother’s funeral, so things might get awkward. The creature is the Segbin, and it’s a smelly goat that bites. Don’t worry though, it doesn’t want to eat you. It wants to kill you, but it doesn’t want to eat you. The The post on mythpodcast.com with all the names: https://www.mythpodcast.com/14036/175-thor-surprises/ — Music: “An Unkn...

2020-03-0448 min

Myths and Legends 174-Medieval Knights: Take Your TimeThe story of Sir Isumbras, a knight from the high Middle Ages, includes talking birds, epic battles, unicorns, and a quest for redemption where the redemption includes the knight's participation in the crusades... The creature is the sealah (pronounced SHE-la), a genie that just wants to go out dancing and get dinner...and by that it means it wants you to dance for it before turning you into its dinner. -- Music: "Four and Fourteen" by Blue Dot Sessions "In the Box" by Blue Dot Sessions "San Diego Sunday" by Blue Dot Sessions "Stack Me...

2020-02-2635 min

Myths and Legends 173-Tunisian Folklore: FortuneFortune favors the bold. Or people willing to put up with a decade of junk. Or the best liars. On this episode, there are two stories: one from Tunisia, and the other from Italy, about people who take their fate into their own hands to varying, oftentimes disastrous results. The creature is a sad sea goat who just wants to be with all of his other sad sea goats but, because the Greek gods are the Greek gods, he’s doomed to a life of tragedy. Sorry, sad sea goat. — Music: “Blur and Coalesce” by Podington...

2020-02-1937 min

Myths and Legends 172-Norwegian Folklore: Adventure!The story of the master thief, from Norwegian folklore, which will have you wondering what the difference is between a master thief and someone who exploits the laziness and ignorance of strangers in incredibly basic ways for their own gain. Also, being a good parent apparently means abandoning your kid in the forest? The creature this week is the skolopendra, and it…might just be real. — Music: “Chainlink Melody” by Podington Bear “Shines Through Trees” by Podington Bear “Kitty in the Window” by Podington Bear “Pinky” by Blue Dot Sessions “Samara” by Podington Bear “Talltell” by Blue Dot Session...

2020-02-1236 min

Myths and Legends 171-Indian Folklore: Love and MarriageThree stories of love from India. The first is what happens when a prostitute and a thief try to build a life together. The second is what happens when a barber gets to ask a king for anything. The third is about a man who saves a mouse...and what happens when that mouse wants to get married. The creature is the man of your dreams...if your dreams happen to include a man who is a snake-wolf-dragon. -- Music: “Flutterbee” by Podington Bear “Wavy Glass” by Podington Bear “Blossoming” by Podington Bear “Bo...

2020-02-0533 min

Myths and Legends 170B-Norse Sagas: On a Long Enough TimelineThis week, we continue the story of Grettir. Last week he was driven by an intense, mysterious tendency toward self-destruction. This week, he’ll still have that…but he’s been cursed by a draugr to always be unlucky. And it shows. A lot. He’ll start this week’s episode on his way home to start a new life and he’ll end it…we’ll, you’ll see. The creature is the Turban snail demon, and it’s why, if you see a snail demon dancing exotically on the water, you should not stop to say hello. —

2020-01-2945 min

Myths and Legends 170A-Norse Sagas: Good for NothingThis week, we’re back in the Icelandic sagas with the story of Grettir the strong, who, whether it’s by berserkers crashing his Christmas party, bears stealing his clothes, or his own obscene insult poetry, just can’t catch a break. Speaking of breaks, you should really break up if you find yourself dating the creature this week. -- Music: “Stack me up” by Blue Dot Sessions “Lakkalia” by Blue Dot Sessions “Cach” by Blue Dot Sessions “Lubby” by Blue Dot Sessions Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2020-01-2240 min

Myths and Legends 169-1001 Nights: A Bottle of DjinnA story from the famous Middle Eastern collection of folklore entitled 1001 Nights where, three friends go on a road trip to get so many bottles full of evil genies. There's no such thing as too many side quests when their travels lead them to the legendary City of Brass, one of the greatest cities in the world...one that shut itself off from the world years ago. The creature is a little guy with red hair who hates being farted on. The Myths and Legends store: http://www.mythpodcast.com/store -- Music: “Surface Tension 3” by Podingt...

2020-01-1540 min

Myths and Legends 168-Robin Hood: Team of RivalsHow to win friends and influence people and also get beat up a lot in the 12th century. We've talked about Robin's origins, but who are all these other guys? Today we learn some outlaw recruiting strategies (mainly just getting whacked in the ribs with a stick and giving piggyback rides) and meet all the other important members of Robin's crew. The creature is just a pleasant and fashionable coat who will not so pleasantly remove the skin and muscle and everything from your bones. -- Music: “The Bus at Dawn” by Blue Dot Session...

2020-01-0838 min

Myths and Legends 167-Nutcracker: CrackedThis week, it is the insane original story behind the popular holiday ballet. In this story for children, we'll get some contradictory lessons for the kids. Getting into a van with a stranger offering candy? Bad. Getting into a silver carriage with a man offering a whole magical world full of candy? Awesome (not really - seriously, kids don't do that). In a podcast full of problematic and wildly different original tellings of popular adaptations, this might be the most different and most problematic. The creature this week is a haggard old woman who travels from to...

2019-12-2446 min

Myths and Legends 166-Grimm Brothers: The Dark ForestTwo (originally children's) tales that underscore the shocking brutality of the world in which these stories were told. The first one is that of three roommates: a sausage, a bird, and a mouse, who decide to mix things up for once. The second is the Robber Bridegroom, a story where a woman has to marry a man who horrifies her...and the lengths she'll go to in order to get out of it. The creature is the Roperite, a vengeful, narcissistic bird who just can't get over the Roadrunner's good luck. -- Music: “Ice Pack” by Podi...

2019-12-1838 min

Myths and Legends 165-Greek Myths: A Tangled WebThe story of a weaving contest between a goddess and a woman challenging the cruelty and tyranny of the Olympians leads us into three more stories: Pandora's box; the great flood of the ancient Greek world; and the love story of Idas and Marpessa, two people who saw the gods taking whatever and whoever they wanted, and said "no." The creature this week is the rolling calf. It's neither rolling nor a calf. Discuss. -- Music: “Dense” by Podington Bear “At Our Best Alone” by Blue Dot Sessions “Constellation” by Podington Bear “Matamoscas” by Blue Dot Sessions “...

2019-12-1141 min

Myths and Legends Supplemental: Lady White Snake ConclusionA short supplemental that finishes the story of Lady White Snake...because there wasn't enough story left for a full episode. There's still a full Myths and Legends episode coming out on Wednesday! The Myths and Legends store: http://www.mythpodcast.com/store Music: "Louver" by Blue Dot SessionsSupport the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2019-12-0910 min

Myths and Legends 164B-Lady White Snake: Enlighten MeXu Xian is dead. He discovered the truth about his wife and he died. I mean, yeah, he's dead...but he's also unwittingly married to a 1700 year old magical demon snake on a redemption arc, so...you know...something might happen. Seriously, though, this is a packed episode. There are magical (if not wholly unexpected) resurrections, crustacean armies, Doctor Strange ripoffs, and that's just in the first half. The creature this time is the suppon no yūrei, and probably a good idea to give up eating turtle altogether. -- Music: “Throughput” by Blue Dot Sess...

2019-12-0431 min

Myths and Legends 164A-Chinese Legends: Here I Go AgainThe legend of the White Snake is one of the four great folktales of China. Today, we start that with an act of kindness, demons lurking in the places we can’t look, and a (misguided?) monk hoping to bring justice. When the creature this week has time off, it prefers crashing funerals and projectile vomiting on strangers. Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2019-11-2734 min

Myths and Legends 163-Hansel and Gretel: CrumbleThere's a surprising amount to the story of Hansel and Gretel. There's your average fairy tale weirdness, like load-bearing cake and aquatic duck Uber, but there's an unexpected humanity in the story that I think is overlooked. I hope you like it. The creature is punyaiama, from India, and she's the reason you can't get drunk in your own home. -- "Re:Joyce" by Podington Bear "Running on Empty" by Podington Bear "Tarnish" by Podington Bear "Warbled Reflection" by Podington Bear "The Snowgarden" by Blue Dot Sessions "Stack Me Up" by Blue Dot Sessions "The Highride" by...

2019-11-2034 min

Myths and Legends 162-47 Ronin: WanderersThe story of the 47 Ronin is a historical tale where a powerful daimyo is shamed and killed by a greedy official…the only issue? The victim had dozens of loyal samurai, and they’re not about to forget what happened to the man they served. The creature is Pricolici, from Romania, a were-dog that is anything but man’s best friend. -- “Bell Solo” by Blue Dot Sessions “Cicle Vascule” by Blue Dot Sessions “Cover Letter” by Blue Dot Sessions “Doubled” by Blue Dot Sessions “Vik Fenceta Lan” by Blue Dot Sessions “Waypoint” by Blue Dot Sessions Support the...

2019-11-1338 min

Myths and Legends 161-Japanese folklore: KarmaTwo stories from Japanese folklore today dealing with the consequences of our actions. The first has a woman chasing a dumpling across her floor…and into a mysterious, far-away land. The second is what happens when a horrible tragedy brings two people together…only to have their fates tear them apart. The creature is the Peluda, a vicious turtle dragon (not Bowser, though) who’s mad about not being allowed on Noah’s ark. He’s working out his emotions in…less than healthy ways (by killing everything). -- Jizo article: http://www.orderofthegooddeath.com/cabinet-c...

2019-11-0632 min

Myths and Legends 160-Halloween Special: LurkingThere's something in the forest in 16th century Scotland. It's been there for years. Anyone who sees it doesn't live to tell about it, and it moves seamlessly between land and sea, leaving nothing but body parts in its wake. With a body count in the thousands, it's a legendary historical horror story that's supposedly true. The creature is a goblin spider. It's a goblin who's also a spider...or, is it? We'll see that things aren't always what they seem on an extended creature of the week. -- Music: “An Accumulation” by Blue Dot Se...

2019-10-3037 min

Myths and Legends 159-Rip Van Winkle: Bad DadThe story of Rip Van Winkle is more than just a guy taking a long, alcohol-induced nap. It's a story about a changing time and a man struggling to keep up. It's a story about lost love and and a second chance. It's a story about one of the most insufferable fictional protagonists that you didn't know you hated: Rip Van Winkle. The creature is the Polong, from Malaysian folklore, the little one-inch tall woman who will cut a hole in your side and just run around inside you, messing all sorts of things up. --

2019-10-2332 min

Myths and Legends 158-Agamemnon: Fate ProceedsThis week, we’re back on the boat to the Trojan War where Agamemnon has a problem. I mean, he always has a lot of problems, but this one involves a bunch of warriors with nothing to do but wait for the winds to pick up, and they're not going to pick up until Agamemnon does what needs to be done. The creature this week is pollo maligno, the evil chicken. He's honestly perfect for this segment. -- Music: “Triana” by Blue Dot Sessions “Matamoscas” by Blue Dot Sessions “Vela Vela” by Blue Dot Sessions “Talltell” by Blue Dot Sessions...

2019-10-1632 min

Myths and Legends 157-Jack the Giant Killer: Giant ProblemsJack the giant killer is back, and he’s less Jack the giant killer than Jack the let’s-just-sit-here-and-let-the-giants-die-from-their-own-unforced-errors guy. That’s way less catchy, though. The creature (pixui) is a constipated robber with daddy issues. -- Music: “Popism” by Blue Dot Sessions “The Gall” by Podington Bear “Mello D” by Podington Bear “Flatlands 4th” by Blue Dot Sessions “Twosome” by Podington Bear “Scallat” by Podington Bear “Rope Swing” by Podington Bear “Indian Paintbrush” by Podington Bear Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2019-10-0933 min

Myths and Legends 156-Italian Folklore: Clever GirlTwo stories, one from Italy, one from England. In the one from italy, Costanza is born which would usually be pretty great...except her parents are already in retirement and have given everything away to her older sisters, so she sets out on her own in the wild medieval world. The second story is Molly Whuppie, whose parents have left her and her two sisters in the forest to die. Then things get worse. The creature this week is hoop snake, a snake that's a hoop and also really confused as to why you're diving through it.

2019-10-0237 min

Myths and Legends 155-Fairy Tales: The PearlTwo stories of terrible parents. One decides to get rich by strapping a gemstone to an infant's head, and the other let her son do whatever he wanted until the day came when she needed him to do one little thing: babysit a chicken. It did not go well. The creature is the phooka, from Ireland, and it will fly you to the moon...but not in the charming Sinatra way, but in the literal way where you suffocate. -- Music: “Wonder Happens” by Podington Bear “Order of Entrance” by Blue Dot Sessions “Highride” by Blue Dot Sessions “P...

2019-09-2538 min

Myths and Legends 154B-Viking Legends: The Army of the DeadHrolf Kraki must avenge his father by confronting his step-father...and brother-in-law. Don't worry, though, the weirdness of last week gets ironed out when we enter more familiar territory for the Viking legends. Our wonderful one-eyed wanderer makes an appearance, kings battle kings, and berserkers battle trolls, draugr, other berserkers, random bystanders, and, well, just about everyone. The creature this week is Penny Dragon, a dragon that will leave you pennies and maybe also burn down your home. -- Sponsors: Simplisafe home security is my absolute favorite. They're easy to set up, no hidden...

2019-09-1835 min

Myths and Legends 154A-Viking Legends: Family BusinessWe’re back in the Norse Sagas with witches, trolls, Norns, magic, elves, and this one-eyed wanderer who definitely isn’t named Odin but have you heard about how awesome Odin is? No? We’ll he’s happy to tell you. This is the saga of Hrolf Kraki and his twelve legendary berserkers. The creature is the reason you should actually follow that strange creature into the dark forest (free all-you-can-eat shrimp!) — Music: “Keo Keo” by Blue Dot Sessions “Convoy Lines” by Blue Dot Sessions “Degradation” by Podington Bear “Den” by Podington Bear “Senseless” by Podington Bear “Relinquish” by Po...

2019-09-1138 min

Myths and Legends 153-Odysseus: The Angry OneA boy is born, fated to be one who brings strife. Two sons seek to outrun a family curse. A wife is spared the grisly fates of her husband and son...only if she will marry the one who committed the atrocities. A daughter is saved from certain death...by judgy ducks. These are the stories of the names that would go down in legend: Odysseus, Agamemnon, Menelaus, Clytemnestra, and Penelope, and their lives before the event that would make them all famous: the Trojan War. The creature this week is a dragon who is living his best l...

2019-09-0437 min

Myths and Legends 152-King Arthur: When in RomeThings are going well for King Arthur for once. He’s in complete control over the island of Great Britain, he’s got a bunch of awesome knights, and dragon attacks are down. What could go wrong? King Arthur should know to never ever ask that question, because twelve men from the definitely not defunct and/or fictional Roman Empire are here to show him exactly what can go wrong. The creature this time is orphan bird, because when you can turn a bird that abandons her children into an religious allegory, why not? — Music: “Drifting” b...

2019-08-2832 min

Myths and Legends 151B-Faust: The Bad PlaceFaust decides that if he's going to have these powers, he's really going to enjoy them so, in no particular order, he gives himself: A Doctor Strange cloak Telekinesis A demon common law wife and baby A get-out-of-debt plan that involves humorously tearing off his own limbs And grapes. In the winter. Crazy, right? Seriously, though, we take the somewhat more grounded story of last week...and then completely go off the rails while Faust (and the writer of the chapbook...mostly the writer of the chapbook) imagines all the things he can do with powers from the devil, and t...

2019-08-2137 min

Myths and Legends 151A-Faust: A Man of Wealth and TasteThe story of Faust and his infamous deal is one that has survived for hundreds of years. Beginning as whispers in Germany in the 1500s, it grew to plays and, most famously, a play by the German writer Goethe, largely considered to be one of the greatest works of German literature. The story has been done and redone, and the phase Faustian bargain is still in use to this day. In today's episode, we're getting back to the very beginning - to the legends behind the masterpieces, and the story of a doctor who just wanted every question a...

2019-08-1432 min

Myths and Legends 150B-European Epics: Where the Shadows LieFrom the end of the world to the underworld and Armageddon itself, Kalevipoeg does way too many things. The creature will throw acres of caustic feces in your direction. Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2019-08-0733 min

Myths and Legends 150A-European Epics: King MeFrom the Estonian epic, the Kalevipoeg, comes the story of, well, Kalevipoeg, the son of a giant who battles sorcerers who are trying to get with his mom and throws rocks the size of Volkswagens to win the kingship, all while trying to carve out a place in the world for his people and his homeland. The creature this week is an annoying piggyback ride from a stranger in the dark forest and why you should go along with that. - -- Music: “Light Filtering Canopy” by Chad Crouch “The Pond” by Chad Crouch “Li Fonte” by Bl...

2019-07-3128 min

Myths and Legends 149-Japanese Fairy Tales: Son of a PeachWhy you absolutely should take the biggest peach you can find in the supermarket and sing to it. It might just hatch a baby! Unfortunately your fairy tale baby will do what fairy tale babies do: grow up and hear that call to adventure, going out to seek their fortune, taking no more than a plucky attitude and an angry dog to battle the evils of the world. The creature this time is Batman...if Batman was a literal bat who turned into an old man. — Music “Adventure” by Chad Crouch “Coin Op” by Chad...

2019-07-1739 min

Myths and Legends 148B-Monkey King: Leaps and BoundsThe monkey king has done it all: he was immortal, he had allied with all the mythological creatures he could find, and he controlled an army 40,000 strong...but heaven didn't care about any of that. They were coming for him, whether or not it was legal, and there was nothing he could do to stop them. The creature this week is a big, angry, hairy unicorn with a...weird surprise. -- Music: “Cicle Desert” by Blue Dot Sessions “Wide Eyes” by Chad Crouch “Illustrated Novel” by Chad Crouch “Pythagoras” by Podington Bear “Crosswire” by Blue Dot Sessions “Lune...

2019-07-1037 min

Myths and Legends 148A-Monkey King: Good Little MonkeySun Wukong, the (Handsome) Monkey King, is both an actual monkey and an actual king…and presumably handsome according to whatever standard that is judged. One of the most famous anti-heroes of Chinese literature, we start his story, and the story of the extremely famous “Journey to the West” at the beginning, with the story of the monkey’s rock mom on the Flower-Fruit mountain. The creature this week is the ningyo, the human fish. It’s neither human nor a fish, but it is a tired introvert who just wants some me time. -- Music: “...

2019-07-0335 min

Myths and Legends 147B-Antigone: AuthorityA dark story gets darker as Antigone battles an authoritarian state in the form of her uncle Creon. -- All music by Blue Dot Sessions Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2019-06-2631 min

Myths and Legends 147A-Oedipus: Team Spear ItWhen we last left the Oedipus family, they all found out they were more related than they ever thought possible. It's somehow about to get even worse. -- Music: "An Unknown Visitor" by Blue Dot Sessions "Daisy" by Chad Crouch "Lilac" by Chad Crouch "Seafoam" by Chad Crouch "Trailrunner" by Blue Dot Sessions "Dasher" by Blue Dot Sessions Support the show: https://www.mythpodcast.com/membership

2019-06-1935 min

Myths and Legends 46D-Jason and the Argonauts: ScornedThe end of the story of Jason, Medea, and the Argonauts. Things have been pretty easy for Jason. Medea solved all of his problems before he even knew he had them on the Argo, and her fairly violent murder-by-proxy of Pelias secured Iolcus for Jason's father. It would probably be a very bad idea to cheat on Medea, right? Hard times are about to catch up with Jason. The creature of the week is the selkie, and they will either give you a tragically beautiful story to tell your half-seal children, or curse your entire island...depending on how creepy...

2016-10-1939 min

Myths and Legends 46C-Jason and the Argonauts: The Long Way HomeIt finally comes time to fight the dragon, (hopefully) survive the return journey home, and have the showdown with Pelias. This is a big episode. If you've made it this far in the series, though, it probably doesn't matter what I write here, because you are either into the Argonaut story or not. Really, though, it is a cool episode and there are about three twist murders, a wedding, and a king with a great name. The creature is the sea-trow, shockingly dumb and frightfully ugly, you might be offended by his pranks...if they made any sense... Want to s...

2016-10-1241 min

Myths and Legends 46B-Jason and the Argonauts: MacGuffinThe quest for the golden fleece begins for the legendary heroes packed aboard the Argo. We find them making all haste for Colchis...except for all the times they stop to feast...and drink too much...and meet beautiful women...and get in unnecessary boxing matches. We also meet the princess Medea; catch up with Cupid (Eros), a hot-shot toddler who plays by his own rules; and Theseus will remember something very, very important. The creature this week is a roaring, spectral bull...who isn't all that dangerous, just incredibly annoying. Sponsors: Check out MVMT watches. They look really nice...

2016-10-0545 min

Myths and Legends 46A-Jason and the Argonauts: Some Assembly RequiredThe beginning of the story of Jason and his legendary Argonauts doesn't start with Jason, but with Zeus being...well, Zeus, and kidnapping an unsuspecting woman. There is a dragon, a giant bronze robot, and court intrigue, leading to some familiar names coming back to help Jason travel to a faraway land and obtain the golden fleece. Those names include Hercules, Theseus, Laertes (father of Odysseus), Autolycus, Peleus (the father of Achilles), Augeus (with the legendarily dirty stables), and more. It's the biggest meetup of everyone we've met so far...well, everyone that isn't in Hades (Sisyphus) tied to a...

2016-09-2841 min

Myths and Legends 37-Hercules: The Best at What He DoesHercules is as terrible as he is awesome. There are sea monsters, centaurs, people being thrown off of things, Hydra poison, and Hercules making ridiculous choices. Basically, it's everything you could want from a Hercules episode. Oh, and he dies, because apparently he can do that. The creature this time is the Mamagwasewug, and he just wants to borrow a smoke off you...or he'll burn your house down. Batman picture: https://www.instagram.com/p/BHD5g9OjfXq/?taken-by=mythpodcast Our sponsor this week: www.lootcrate.com/legends (code: LEGENDS). Support the show? (http://support.mythpodcast.com) Find us on iTu...

2016-06-2945 min

Myths and Legends 36B-Pocahontas: Between Two StreamsAn abbreviated history of Pocahontas and John Smith, this episode looks at the conflict largely from the Powhatan side. This isn't the Disney version. It is gritty, dark, violent, and, if Mattaponi oral history is to be trusted, fairly disturbing. Still, it tells the story of a clash of worlds, and one woman who stood in the middle to bring a brief peace. The creature this week lives in lime trees and, in return for probably not paying rent, will hurt you if you're mean to the tree. Our sponsors: www.MackWeldon.com (promo code MYTHS) http://www.blueapron.com/l...

2016-06-221h 01

Myths and Legends 31B-Viking Sagas: Face-offThe conclusion of the Saga of Arrow-Odd, a man who is destined to live 300 years, yet cursed to be killed by his favorite horse. He's watched his friends and brothers die in his struggle with his adversary, the evil half-troll Ogmund, but this battle is destined to stretch over centuries, into a world that looks completely different to both of them. The creatures this week hang out in pantries, and either tempt you with too much cake or destroy your ill-gotten, likely buttercat-acquired food. Our awesome sponsor with their awesome b...

2016-05-0458 min

Myths and Legends 22A-Irish Legends (The Tain): Red LedgerStarting an epic string of legends from Celtic folkore. We're back in the time of kings, princesses, and intrigue. You'll see how you can steal a kingdom with fancy accounting, curse a nation because of a careless comment, and start a war to prove to your spouse how rich you are. The creature of the week is the monaciello from Naples, Italy. When he's not helping you, he's stealing your clothes...off your body... Become a member? Say hi on Twitter Find the show on iTunes Really excellent source for the today's stories my...

2016-01-2733 min

Myths and Legends 18-St. Nick: Rusty Chains and Candy CanesThe story behind the transition from Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus is one that includes murder, priest-punching, and ominous, demonic-looking companions. This episode looks at the legends behind an austere bishop who has been transformed into a magical, portly elf. **Note: as I say in the show, this episode is not for young children. The story of St. Nick includes grisly murders and mentions of prostitution. Listener discretion is advised.** The creature of the week is another sort of Santa from Spain who, in the old days, eschewed the coal for bad children for a long, deadly scythe.

2015-12-2332 min

Myths and Legends 10B-Hercules: Labor IntensiveFinishing up the twelve labors, Hercules fights way, way too many things: a giant boar, a giant bull, vicious birds, man-eating horses, the three-headed hell hound Cerberus, and more, all as penance for his crime. The creature of the week are invisible weasel brothers that might give you a small cut or two...or might cut off your legs...all without you feeling it. Say hi on twitter (@mythpodcast) e-mail: Jason@mythpodcast.com find the show on iTunes (itunes.mythpodcast.com) That story thing I mentioned Songs: "Direct to Video" by Chris Zabriskie

2015-09-3038 min

Myths and Legends 10A-Hercules: Going into LaborThe story of Hercules is one part gritty, serious tragedy and two parts over-the-top monster fights. This week, in the origin story of one of the greatest mythological heroes of the western world, we get to see the human side of the demigod before the story goes completely off-the-rails and it's just one big monster fight topping the next. But don't worry, there are also monster fights this episode. We'll see that Zeus is essentially the Don Draper of the Greek pantheon, only without all that pesky introspection or likability, and that if your husband cheats on you, you...

2015-09-2335 min

Myths and Legends 9-Dogs and Wolves: Generations (Fenrir, The Black Dog, Dog King of Denmark, Gelert)Instead of one long story, this week I'm telling four stories about canines from folklore from all around the world. We'll go back to the Norse gods and goddesses where Loki will make more poor choices. Then I'll talk about the legend of the black dog of the UK and Ireland. There's the weird and hilarious story of a little dog that was made king of Denmark, and how the people took it surprisingly seriously. Finally, I'll round out the show with the saddest story about a dog you've ever heard. Also, I know Fenrir is a wolf a...

2015-09-1632 min

Myths and Legends 7-Little Mermaid: Cry with the SaintsThe real story of the Little Mermaid is way more violent and grim than the Disney version, and does not have a happy ending. It's the story of a teenage mermaid who falls in love with a human and makes a deal to get legs, but that's where the similarities end. The original includes bald mermaids, daggers, and a great way to blackmail your kids into being good. If you've ever wanted to know way, way too much detail about a mermaid society, but hate it when your characters have names or plausible motivations, this story is for you. B...

2015-09-0230 min

Myths and Legends 6B-Merlin: What’s Red, White, and Fighting All OverThis is where we meet Merlin, a son of a demon who uses his evil powers for good. But he's not yet the bearded sorcerer we all kind of know and love. No, he first enters our story as a serious seven year-old with power over magic, the ability to prophesy, and knowledge of the past, present, and future. The only problem? He's about to be executed by Vortigern's magicians. Luckily, his life will be saved by not one, but two dragons. Its the origin story of the world's most famous legendary wizard. Then, on the creature of the w...

2015-08-1930 min