Fabric of Folklore

Have you encountered the Latin American hauntress, La llorona? In episode 13 of Fairy Tale Flip we delve into the haunting folktale of La Llorona, exploring its origins, symbolism, and cultural implications. We trace the many and varied roots of La Llorona, from the first documentation in 1550 to its connections with Aztec mythology and themes of grief. We also discuss global variations and interpretations, highlighting the portrayal of women as "monsters" in folklore and societal narratives ...

What do fairies have to do with Halloween? And should you be afraid? That is the question we discuss in episode 12 of Fairy Tale Flip this month while exploring "The Girl Who Danced with Fairies, An Irish Halloween Tale." We take a deep dive into the history of Halloween in Ireland, including Samhain, celebrated by the Celts 2,000 years ago. While diving deep into symbolic elements, we examine dancing, music, food, spiritual growth, and self-discovery. Of course, we also explore fairy abducti...

Do you knock on wood or hold your breath when driving past a graveyard? Superstitions are a fascinating aspect of cultures worldwide. In episode 65, D.R. McElroy explores various superstitions from every major continent, delving into their psychological roots and their prevalence in performance-based professions. Following the structure of the handbook, each segment highlights a unique superstition as we journey around the globe. Join us for this intriguing exploration of superstitions!Book:&...

What works come to mind when you think of Gothic literature? This dark and macabre genre features many authors who might surprise you, including Shakespeare. In episode 64, Julia O'Connell, author of the Gothic Library blog, joins us to discuss the roots of Gothic literature and its evolution into various genres.We explore defining characteristics, its origins, and influential works such as Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Bram Stoker's Dracula. The conversation delves into significant Gothic ...

Have you heard of the legend of the naked dead or the vanishing hitchhiker? Join us on episode 63 as we dive into the mystical world of Latter-day Saint folklore with Christopher James Blythe, podcast host of the popular Angels and Seerstones. In this supernatural episode we unravel the threads of faith, fear, and the unusual woven into Mormon culture. From ethereal pre-existence beliefs to apocalyptic prophecies, we'll explore the otherworldly stories that shape LDS folk identity. Dr. Blythe...

Have you ever heard of the Chinese fairy tale "The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl?" Maybe you have experienced the festival dubbed by some, the Chinese Valentine's Day Festival which happens on the 7th day of the 7th month of the lunisolar calendar to commemorate the star-crossed lovers from the ancient fairytale? We chat about cultural elements such as the significance of the number seven, the symbolism and creation story involving magpies, the color red, and the importance of weaving skills in...

What could be more perfect than the combination of live theater and folklore? In episode 62, Henry Cameron Allen, founder of Folklore Theatre Company, shares his journey from local theater director to global storyteller. He discusses the company's evolution from local to international productions, including the audio series 'The Lore.' We explore Henry's background as an author, speaker, grief counselor, theater director, as well as the noble goal of his Folklore Theatre Company's goal of res...

Do you have a story that made a deep impact in your life? In episode 61, Laura Simms, an internationally acclaimed storyteller and writer takes us through her unique journey into storytelling, influenced by childhood experiences with legends like Baba Yaga. Our discussion centers around how one brings a story to life, the architecture of engagement, and discovering why the essence of the experience of the story is invaluable in the world today. We also discuss the transformative power of stor...

What secrets lie within Scotland's ancient folklore? Graeme Johncock, author of Scotland Stories: Historic Tales for Incredible Places joins us on episode 60 as we discover the magic, myths, and legends of Scotland. Graeme delves into the unique aspects of Scotland's storytelling traditions, from the influence of historical events like the Highland Clearances to the intriguing lore surrounding witches, stone circles, kelpies and mysterious lochs. We explore Celtic mythology, and the con...

Have you ever read a fairy tale, and wanted to better understand what it really meant? Get ready to dive into the dark and captivating world of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Girl Who Trod on a Loaf" in Episode 10 of Fairy Tale Flip! Join us, Donna Fields and Vanessa Rogers as we unravel the complex symbolism of bread, sin, and redemption in this lesser-known tale. Discover how Andersen's character-driven narratives differ from the Grimm brothers' traditional fairy tales, and explore the stor...

You have heard of Walt Disney Parks but what do you know of Walt Disney, the man? Disney historian Phil Gramlick in episode 59 talks to us about Walt Disney's formative years, from his challenging childhood to the iconic creation of Mickey Mouse and Disneyland which has all been documented in his newly released book, "Walt and His Parks." Phil shares insights from his extensive interviews with Disney Legends and recounts Walt's unique storytelling methods, including the creation of the ...

Do you know the Celtic tale of Finn McCool and the Giant's Causeway? In episode 9 of Fairy Tale Flip, Vanessa and Donna dive deep into the giant, the hero, and the origin of the story of Finn McCool and his band of warriors called the Fianna. We explore the geological characteristics named for Finn in both Ireland and Scotland. We explore the nuances between legend, folktale, and fairy tale, highlighting Finn's historical backdrop, his transformation into a giant, how he was raised by two war...

How can we apply mythology to better our well-being? In episode 58, Dr. Catherine Svehla, a storytelling scholar and consultant in the field of mythology, and creativity coach explains the importance of old stories in understanding the human experience. She discusses how she helps artists and creative individuals through the exploration of old myths which she describes as the foundation of our world- the source of our ideas, beliefs, values and institutions. We discuss psychology, specificall...

Do you believe the Tasmanian tiger is still alive today? In episode 57 we chat with Daisy Ahlstone, a folklorist, cryptozoologist (legend scholar), eco-philosopher, and mycologist about their research on the Tasmanian tiger (thylacine) as a folk legend after it had been declared extinct since 1986. We discuss the cultural and ecological significance of the Tasmanian tiger and its unique status in cryptozoology. Daisy also discusses mycology and folklore and what they believe are similarities ...

What impact can folktales have on children? In episode 56, Bill Gordh, an award-winning banjo player and storyteller, shares his journey from skepticism about theater's importance to recognizing its profound impact through his work with children and folktales. This episode delves into his multicultural folktale books and the transformative power of live storytelling for children. We also discuss his podcast with the World Music Institute, where he features world-renowned musicians and their u...

Have you ever heard of the classic fairy tale, Donkey Skin by Charles Perrault? In episode 8 of Fairy Tale Flip @donnaleefields and Vanessa Y Rogers dive deep into the context of this French fairy tale found in some versions Tales of Mother Goose and discuss the famous author Charles Perrault. We explore why he wrote the first books meant for children, as well as the origins of the tale and connections to older tales such as The Golden Ass, Oedipus, and the story of the princess St. Dym...

What traditions did your father pass on to you? What traditions will you continue? In episode 55 for our Father's Day episode, we speak with Dr. Tyrie (TJ) Smith a folklorist, educator and nonprofit executive working in the areas of social and environmental justice, and traditional arts conservation about how folklore works within families with a focus on fathers and their traditions. TJ shares insights from his academic journey in folklore, highlighting its significance in understanding huma...

Have you ever visited a museum dedicated to myths? In episode 54, Fiona Boyle, the spokesperson for Mythstories Museum of Myth and Fable, walks us through this amazing online resource. Founded over 20 years ago by Dez and Ali Quarréll the physical museum amassed a wide collection of paintings, artifacts and educational resources to help make intangible stories tangible. Over the years, Mythstories Museum has helped to introduce young people to traditional oral storytelling, through storytelli...

How can storytelling help a city create community? In episode 53 Elizabeth Coffee, the Director of Storytelling of the Know Your Neighbor Program in San Antonio, Texas, talks to us about how this organization is using storytelling as a tool to inspire, create empathy and dialogue across the city. The program which is a part of with The H. E. Butt Foundation, aims to answer an age-old question: “Who is my neighbor?” Through storytelling, developing learning resources, and crafting unique event...

What do you know about the evil Baba Yaga, the most famous of the Russian fairy tales? Baba Yaga is one of the complex characters, and therefore one of the most fun and fascinating to discuss. In episode 7 of Fairy Tale Flip, Donna Lee Fields and Vanessa Y Rogers discuss the deeper meaning of this ambiguous child-eating witch who lives in a hut with chicken legs. We discuss the significances of her hut lit with skull lanterns deep in the forest. We explore the hidden meanings of the forest, B...

How can storytelling be used to heal? In episode 52 with Jazmine, a Lebanese-Australian a bilingual storyteller, we discuss the benefits of storytelling craft for both for the immigrant experience, but also as a medical tool. The daughter of a multilingual and multi-faith family, Jazmine is a domestic violence worker, writer, educator and oral bilingual storyteller and performer studying creative arts, and health and wellbeing. Through storytelling, she empowers marginalized communities using...

Happy Mother's Day to all the mamas. The work you do is important. Mothers make the world go round! Episode 51, we're celebrating American Revolutionary Mothers and their accomplishments with historian, author, playwright, actress and storyteller Darci Tucker. She is the author of a one-woman play, Revolutionary Women, and the book ‘Embodying the Story through Character Interpretation'. We focus on two incredible women, Jane Long, nicknamed "Mother of Texas" and her contributions behind-the-s...

Why does the Welsh flag have a dragon on it? In episode 50 with fairy tale author Claire Fayers, we explore this and more Welsh folklore mysteries. In our discussion, Claire, author of 'Welsh Fairy Tales, Myths and Legends', gives us insights into Welsh language revival efforts and the resurgence of interest in Celtic traditions. Claire was born and brought up in South Wales and has built a successful writing career, including her award-winning children’s book The Accidental Pirates: Voyage t...

What musical traditions do you enjoy? In our conversation with Juan Dies the Co-Founder & Executive Director the two-time GRAMMY Nominated Sones de Mexico Ensemble in episode 49, we discuss the importance of folklore in reflecting society's values and how music can be a tool to discover and embrace one's heritage. Raised in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, Juan first developed a passion for music, learning to play the guitar at age six. At age 18, he migrated to the U.S. and explored new musical ...

Do you know what the oldest fairy tale known to modern times is? If you don't now, you will soon! The Smith and the Devil is a fairy tale found all over the world throughout countless cultures. But why? Why has that fairy tale been maintained through the not hundreds of years but thousands? What is the connection with blacksmiths and devils? Is the devil a bad guy in the story? In this fascinating episode we reflect on themes of duality and power dynamics, intricate relationship between black...

Is fantasy just the next step of folklore? Folklore is often a core element of fantasy fiction. Rebecca Heidt, an LGBTQ+ writer of the fantasy fiction "Acceptance" series, talks to us about how she uses folklore in her writing, as well as anthropology, history, spirituality and nature. In episode 48, Rebecca chats with us about her award-winning series, and her research into world mythologies. We discuss various mythological elements like nymphs and fairies from Greek, Roman, and Norse belief...

Did you know there are over 400,000 Quinceañera's celebrated annually in the United States alone? In episode 47, Rachel V. González-Martin joins us to shed light on the evolution of Quinceañera over time and their connections to modern Latinx cultural values. Dr. Rachel Valentina González-Martin is an assistant professor of Mexican American and Latina/o studies at the University of Texas at Austin. She is the coeditor of Race and Cultural Practice in Popular Culture and Author of Quinceañera ...

Have you heard of the Aztec Legend of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl? At the heart of this Mexican Legend from Aztec Mythology are two volcanoes overlooking Mexico City. A legend sometimes referred to as the Romeo and Juliet of Central America, this legend tells of a princess and a warrior whose love burns bright, but because of unfortunate circumstances, die of grief and are turned into the beautiful snow capped mountains looming large over the city. In Fairy Tale Flip episode 5, Donna ...

When a language dies, why should we care? Don Kulick, a distinguished University Professor of Anthropology at Uppsala University and head of the ENGAGING VULNERABILITY research program talks to us in episode 46 about the death of languages. We delve into his book, A Death in the Rainforest: how a language and a way of life came to an end in Papua New Guinea, discusses his work in the tiny village of Gapun in New Guinea to document the death of the native language and why that matters. We expl...

What can we learn from Indian mythology? Sunita Pant Bansal, author of countless books of Indian mythology and children folk literature, helps us understand the life lessons mythology offers. In episode 45, author of best seller Krishna, The Management Guru and Everyday Gita, Sunita walks us through the concept of her newest book on boons and curses in Indian mythology. The discussion highlights how mythology stories carry life lessons on justice, karma, impermanence, and diversity in viewpoi...

Have you heard of the Dybbuk of Jewish folklore? It is a malicious possessing spirit most well-known in Yiddish Theater, Between Two Worlds. The play was written by S. Ansky in 1914, a playwright and enthographer. The tale centers on a young woman possessed by a dybbuk- that of her deceased lover. The play became a canonical work of both Hebrew and Yiddish theatre, being further translated and performed around the world. Dr. Morris M. Faierstein joins us in episode 44 to discuss his upcoming ...

Is Rumpelstiltskin morally good or is he evil? Why does he want the queen's baby? What does nature and the natural world have to do this fairy tale? If you have ever read a fairy tale and wondered if there was a hidden meaning, if it had a message you just weren't catching, this is the podcast for you. Fairy Tale Flip is a monthly collaboration between Doorways to Leaning and Fabric of Folklore to bring you a unique exploration of a different fairy tale each month. Each month, we have YOU, th...

How does one go from slavery to equality? That is the question African Americans grappled with after their emancipation in 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation released Blacks from their enslavement, but they continued to experience inequality in all phases of American life —social, cultural, political, and economic. In episode 43, Dr. Ronald L. Sharps, Associate Dean of College of the Arts at Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ joins us to discuss his new book 'Black Folklorists in Purs...

Have you heard of The Hero with a Thousand Faces? What about the hero's journey? Joseph Campbell was an author, professor and global storyteller. A lecturer at Sarah Lawrence College in Yonkers, his work continues to have ripple effects across the globe today. His works, and influence in understanding mythology around the world, are the topic of today's incredible show. In episode 42, Bruce Boyce, the creator of “I Take my History with My Coffee” blog and podcast, joins us to discuss the infl...

Have you ever wondered why humans are primed for stories? Once a story starts, its so hard to stop. In episode 41 Kendall Haven talks to us about the brain science behind why we are magnetically attracted to stories. His research, story coaching work, and two seminal books, STORY PROOF: The Science Behind the Startling Power of Story, and STORY SMART: Using the Science of Story to Persuade, Influence, Inspire, and Teach have revolutionized our understanding of stories—of the science of story,...

In Episode 3 "A Flowering Tree" Donna and Vanessa dive deep into this Indian fairy tale translated to English by A. K. Ramanujan to understand its significance, relevance and historical context. The story is a Kannada folklore that tells the tale of a young woman, Kumudha, who discovers that she has the magical ability to transform herself into a flowering tree. She uses this gift to support her impoverished family, but her transformation is later exploited. The story explores themes of magic...

Have you ever taken a journey that awakened your senses? In episode 40, we speak with Stina Gray, a professional storyteller, ethnologist and author with roots in Sweden and New Zealand. She talks to us about her heartwarming stories, performances and also her new book, When the Woods Sang: Returning to the Singing Earth. It is about her journey into the singing, weeping woods of her Motherland and to the heart of her path as a storyteller. The journey awakened her senses to the lore of the l...

How can mythology and folklore be a tool for healing? In episode 39, Sabrina Fletcher, a bereavement doula incorporates myth storytelling in her grief circles for pregnancy loss, drawing on ancient stories, myths, and archetypes to facilitate healing. These narratives can act as reminders that we are not alone in our experiences. Inspired by her own loss and the lack of community support, Sabrina became a doula, offering support to others in their grief. We delve into how rituals and folktale...

What if you are reading fairy tales all wrong? What if the witch is actually the good guy? In episode 38, we're talking Donna Lee Fields, a teacher-trainer and speaker in the international educational circuit with a passion for looking deeper into the underlying messages in fairy tales. The Witch as the Hero of Fairy Tales was the title of her doctoral thesis. We talked about fairy tales and how the stereotypes we’ve made about the characters of the princess and the witch, may be wrong....

Fairy Tale Flip (Episode #2) is a monthly collaboration with Donna Fields from Scaffolding Magic about diving deeper into fairy tales. Fairy tales feel simple. And we love them because we all just want a happily ever after. The Singing Bone fairy tale, however, is a dark story about a boar, two poor brothers and a princess with no agency. It is from the 1700's Grimm Brothers' Fairytale collections with a bittersweet ending. Its a story about vergence and about correcting a wrong. It als...

Ever wonder where the idea behind the Christmas tree came from and what a tree in your house has to do with the birth of Jesus? Did you know that some Christmas traditions today can be traced back to ancient Rome? James Cooper, a Christmas fan and expert from the UK who runs whychristmas.com, one […]The post Episode 37: The History Behind the Christmas Tree and other Christmas Traditions with James Cooper appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channe...

What do you value and why? Values play a significant role in a community’s culture. The stories a community or a group of people imparts transmits cultural values, ethics, and moral lessons. In episode 36 Josh Porthouse (Porter), the host and executive producer of Transacting Values talks to us about his award-winning podcast that showcases […]The post Episode 36: Values, Value Systems and Druids with Josh Porthouse appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website You...

Calling All Crafters or Want-to-be Crafters!! In episode 34 we explored a beautiful, modern way folk arts, especially the fiber crafts, are being practiced today. Our guests, Jen Simonic and Masey Kaplan, are the founders of Loose Ends Project. Loose Ends Project is a non-profit which aims to ease grief, create community, and inspire generosity […]The post Episode 35: Loose Ends Project and The Practice of Modern Folk Art with Jen Simonic and Masey Kaplan appeared first on Fabric of Folklore....

Do you know the history beyond the famous “first Thanksgiving” feast of 1621? Our guest, Melanie Kirkpatrick, author of Thanksgiving: The Holiday at the Heart of the American Experience, spoke to us about this uniquely American holiday in episode 34. In our conversation, we discuss the heart of the tradition and what this holiday represents […]The post Episode 34: The History of Thanksgiving, America’s Oldest Holiday with Melanie Kirkpatrick appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabr...

Are fairytales only for children? Our guest Jack Zipes argues that folktales and fairytales are not designed purely for the amusement of children but contain serious social and political implications. Dr. Zipes, a retired Professor from the University of Minnesota is known for his lectures on German literature, critical theory, German Jewish culture, children’s literature, […]The post Episode 33: Fairytales and their social and political implications with Dr. Jack Zipes appeared first on Fabr...

What do you know about Asian mythological characters? In episode 32, we spoke with Fairlane Raymundo the author of Aswang, the first graphic novel NFT inspired by Asian mythology and literature. Fairlane Raymundo is a Filipino-born, Californian resident who besides being an author, is also an illustrator, scriptwriter, and marketer with a YouTube Channel, Asian […]The post Episode 32: All about Asian mythological characters with graphic novelist Fairlane Raymundo appeared first on Fabric of F...

What do you know about Halloween? Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in America, and yet its origins are misunderstood. Lisa Morton, the author of the book Trick or Treat: The History of Halloween, a six-time winner of the Bram Stoker Award®, and also a world-class Halloween and paranormal expert, attempts to clarify […]The post Episode 31: Unmasking the Mysteries of Halloween: A Deep Dive with Lisa Morton appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Yo...

Did you know there is a spooky side to plants? Nina Veteto is a long time forager, explorer, plant lover and artist who lives in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. She explores and forages special places, explains the folklore of plants, and inspires her followers to learn more about the botany of […]The post Episode 30: Folklore of Plants: Uncovering the Spooky Secrets of Portals to Other Worlds with Nina appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore web...

What ghost story has haunted you since you heard it? This spooky show with Tok Thompson, professor at University of Southern California, is part of our Halloween/ October series- all about ghosts and ghost stories and why they haunt us. Dr. Thompson teaches folklore and mythology, including a course called Ghost Stories: Throughout Time and […]The post Episode 29: Ghost Stories Throughout Time, and Around the World with Dr. Tok Thomspon appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of...

Have you ever heard of the Curse of Juilia Brown, the voodoo priestess who supposedly destroyed a small Louisiana town. Join us as we step into the world of the eerie and infamous legends of the American South. Our guest, and fellow podcaster, Brandon Schexnayder helps us unravel the dark and creepy history of The […]The post Episode 28: Eerie Tales with Southern Gothic host Brandon Schexnayder appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook ...

Episode 27: Blues Music, the African American Experience and Folklore Forget what you think you know about Blues Music and join us as we speak with award-winning Independent Filmmaker and radio journalist Lamont Jack Pearley who explains what blues music is and isn’t. Pearley is founder of the African American Folklorist Magazine and Podcast and […]The post Episode 27: Blues Music, the African American Experience and Folklore appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore w...

Do you have a favorite folk band? We might just have your new favorite that you didn’t even know was missing in your life? In episode 26 we speak with Liz Pearson, vocalist for the folk band Chalk Horse Music with songs inspired by local stories, legends and places. Stephen Thomas from Folkroom Records says […]The post Episode 26: Chalk Horse Music and the Folklore Behind Their Folk Music appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page F...

Did you know the Mahabharata is the longest epic poem ever written? At 100,000 verses, it is about 10 times the length of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey combined. The Bhagavad Gita, a section of the epic, is considered one of the most important Hindu scriptures. Our guest, Parag Shan is an author on the Mahabharata, […]The post Episode 25: All About the Mahabharata and Reconnecting with One’s Roots appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook P...

Episode 24: Dr. Patrick McNamara and The Neuroscience of Religious Belief Did you know that religious belief and experiences have a profound effect on our brains? In this unique episode we speak with neuroscientist Patrick McNamara on how folklore affects our brains? We discuss how the brain processes and interprets religion, as well as mythology, […]The post Episode 24: Dr. Patrick McNamara and The Neuroscience of Religious Belief appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folk...

Did you know Lithuania was one of the last countries of the Baltic region to convert to Christianity from paganism. This makes its folk stories, and folklore one of the most exciting to folklorists and ethnographers because their tales, traditions, rituals and customs are the most closely aligned to the Baltic states’ ancient pagan practices. […]The post Episode 23 Dr. Francis Young and Lithuanian folklore appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube chann...

Have you ever heard of folklore being used in therapy sessions? In episode 22, Ben Stimpson, a therapist, lecturer, student, and spiritual director uses a new effective therapeutic practice that combines storytelling, and personal narrative to get at the heart of clients’ challenges. He walks us through how it works and why it’s effective. We […]The post Ep 22 All About Folktales in Therapy and Connecting with Ancestors appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website...

Do you believe in creatures that live at the edge of our reality? In this episode, we discuss fearsome critters both wonderful and terrifying. Strange beasts found in the Maine wilderness and told of by European settlers, the Abenaki or “first people”, and loggers as well of others. Christopher Packard, author of Mythical Creatures of […]The post Ep 21. All About Mythical Creatures of Maine appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page...

Have you heard of climate migration? Whether or not you have, it is having a major impact on traditional cultures. Maida Owens, a cultural anthropologist and Folklife Program Director specializing in Louisiana traditional cultures, in this incredibly important conversation, speaks to us about how the Louisiana Folklore Society is supporting local efforts to sustain traditional […]The post Ep 20. All About Sustaining Louisiana Folk Traditions and Knowledge Amidst Climate Migration appeared fir...

Episode 19 All About Death midwifery, and Ghanian folklore. You have probably heard of the Anansi folktales from Ghana, but have you heard the term death midwife? Our amazing guest, Ashley Oppon, who joined us on episode 19 talked to us about both. She is a Shamanic Practitioner, Death Midwife, an oncology RN at Sankofa […]The post Episode 19: All About Death midwifery, and Ghanian folklore appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page...

Aesop’s Fables are primarily read to children in today’s world, these famous stories, which have stood the test of time, were originally told amongst adults. In episode 18, Dr. Laura Gibbs, retired mythology and folklore professor from the University of Oklahoma, explores Aesop beyond Greece and Rome and guides us through the back and forth […]The post Episode 18: Aesop’s Fables with Dr. Laura Gibbs appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Face...

Did you know Juneteenth is the first federal holiday created in nearly 40 years? The last being the creation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. But what is it all about? Who celebrates it? What will the celebrations look like? Ed Cotham, the author of Juneteenth: The Story Behind the Celebration, and a prizewinning historical […]The post Ep 17 Ed Cotham – All About Juneteenth appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Ins...

Have you heard of Slender Man or the kiss of death legend? In episode #16, Dr. Andrea Kitta, professor and folklorist at East Carolina University explores ways in which disease is more than a medical issue, but also social issue. She does this using folklore and legends surrounding contagion and contamination. In this exciting and […]The post Ep 16: Dr Andrea Kitta, The kiss of death and other medical beliefs and legends. appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore websi...

Norma Elia Cantu- Lost Matachines There are very few sacred dances shared by both Hispanics and Native Americans, but Los Matachines is one of them. This dance-drama is performed across multiple continents and has been an ongoing tradition for centuries. In this episode, Dr. Norma Elia Cantu, a folklorist and distinguished professor of Humanities in […]The post Ep 15 Norma Elia Cantu appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebo...

Did you know that the Nordic Runes are still in use by people today? The writing system used in the Dark Ages is being used by large swaths of people in present times. In this episode, author Wendy Trevennor, a practicing witch, walks us through for what runes were used in the past and how […]The post Ep 14 Runes With Wendy Trevennor appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Twitter Linkedin

Episode 13 Show Notes with Nancy Marie Brown Have you heard of the elf seers in Iceland? Instead of being sidelined, and laughed at, Icelanders relate to nature, elves included, in ways that differ from others. Many consider elf seers, including the decision-makers in government as legitimate. Author Nancy Marie Brown, of the new book […]The post Ep 13. Icelandic Elves with Nancy Marie Brown appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Pag...

Where did the color indigo come from? According to folklore, a mother of course, an African mother! This Mother’s Day week, we’re exploring mythology from Africa, and highlighting folktales, and legends of mothers. Helen Nde the curator of Mythological Africans, and author of The Runaway Princess and Other Stories, talks to us about her collection […]The post Ep 12 African Folklore With Helen Nde appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Faceboo...

Have you heard Sicilian folk music? If not, you should. Our guest today, Michela Musolino is an all around talented musician. Her passionate music is rooted in Sicily, from which much of her family immigrated. Although born in America, her Sicilian family life celebrated their family traditions with food, storytelling and music. Within her performances, […]The post Ep 11: Sicilian Folk Musician Michela Musolino appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube ...

What do you know about the folktale of the selkie? Daniel Bell an educator, artist, media creator, and podcaster of Selkie Cast and Breathing Underwater. The mysterious Selkie folklore and culture uncovered through Dan’s research is fascinating. The shape shifting seal stories are both the same in places and drastically different. It’s at the same […]The post Ep 10 All About Selkies With Dan appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Pag...

Have you heard of The Springman? At one point this legendary character was more popular than Jack the Ripper. Also called Spring-Heeled Jack, this urban legend was sometimes a villan, sometimes a ghost and sometimes a super hero. It all depended on what country, the story was being told. Our guest, Dr. Petr Janacek, is […]The post Ep 9 The Springman With Petr Janeček appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagra...

Have you ever considered going on a Pilgrimage? Have you ever wondered why someone would walk such a long distance on purpose? Our guest today, Jim Hindle has written a book, ‘The Shrine Way: an English Pilgrimage’ about his own journey, his own pilgrimage. His pilgrimage was one of healing and reflections of his own […]The post Ep 8 Going On A Pilgrimage With Jim Hindle appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Inst...

Join Vanessa as she explores the folklore of Japan with this weeks guest Nicki Van Ingen Schenau. Nicki takes us on a tour through some of the more interesting Japanese cultural aspects and folklore. In this episode, prepare to be captivated by the rituals, mythology and traditions of the Japanese culture. www.tokiotours.nlThe post Ep 7 A Trip To Japan With Nicki Van Ingen Schenau appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook ...

Show Notes- Michelle E. Shores Are ghost stories real? What if over 100 people see a ghost in broad daylight AND testify to the church? In this exciting and spooky episode, we explore the first ghost story ever documented in the United States. Michelle E. Shores is a historian and a genealogical researcher, and was […]The post Ep 6 A Ghost From Maine With Michelle Shores appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Grou...

Are fairies lovable creatures as modern movies portray them or dark mischievous beings, who intend humans harm? Our guest on today's episode, John Kruse, has studied the writings of British citizenry and clergy from hundreds of years past, and has written multiple books, both fiction and non-fiction on British fairy encounters. We talk about the darker side of fairy lore and how our perception of them has changed. We also discuss the influence on today's music, art and storytelling of fairy l...

Was the Old English Saga of Beowulf actually a story of memory, rather than of fiction? Nikki is an award nominated author and trained cultural anthropologist who has 15 years of research and exploration into global folklore and mythology and she discusses her revolutionary interpretation of the beloved story. The post Ep4. All About Beowulf & Neanderthals appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram ...

Dr. Simon Bronner, Dean of the College of General Studies and expert folklorist at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee explores a range of topics: Meaning of Folklore Book Practice of Folklore book Chain-Carvers-Old-Crafting Whirligigs-Peter-Gelker-Lynn-Gamwell book:The post Ep3. Folklore & Psychology appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Twitter Linkedin

Dr. Kristina Downs, the executive director of the Texas Folklore Society, as well as an assistant professor of English at Tarleton State speaks to us on all things folklore and true crime. Links: Crime Lore Podcast Texas Folklore SocietyThe post Ep 2 True Crime & Folklore appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore website Youtube channel Facebook Page Facebook Group Instagram Twitter Linkedin

In the first ever episode of Fabric of Folklore, Lise Lunge-Larson, award-winning author and professional storyteller dives deep into troll mythology, Norwegian folklore and other Hidden Folk. Topics discussed include: Lise’s Website For more folklore goodness check out our blog Images from trolls in the landscape here in Minnesota mentioned in the podcast. Mentioned at […]The post Ep.1 All About Trolls & Other Hidden Folk appeared first on Fabric of Folklore.Follow us:Fabric of Folklore ...