
Wise Crone Cottage Podcast (Kathy Shimpock)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Wise Crone Cottage Podcast
Date | Titre | Durée | |
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08 Feb 2022 | "Stories that Must be Told" (S3, #3) | 00:23:32 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock explores the stories that must be told and what happens when we try to forget them. We'll look at three tales from India. Each one addresses stories that are untold, the need to find a willing audience, and the consequence when they are hidden. Finally, we'll discuss how traditional stories from the oral tradition, hold the truth and history that needs to be remembered. As the keepers of stories, we must learn from the tellers of long ago - why these stories were used in the past and how they might be essential to the future. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
19 Mar 2022 | "Interview with Medusa" - The Wise Crone Speaks (S3, #4) | 00:28:38 | |
In this episode, we’ll meet Medusa with the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock. Some call Medusa a Gorgon, others a cursed beauty. Maligned in popular media, controversy has followed Medusa wherever she goes. In her first recorded interview, Medusa will sit down with the Wise Crone for a tell-all exchange. Her visit is courtesy of the Jungian technique “active imagination.” Hold on to your seats, there is much more to come! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
28 Apr 2022 | "The Brewery of Eggs" - An Irish Story (S3, #5) | 00:24:43 | |
In this episode, we're in the world of Irish fairies with the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock. Our story is called "The Brewery of Eggs." It's a changeling legend in which the wise old woman saves the day by bringing the right baby home. We're also going to explore how women stories may be coded, so they can share topics too difficult to address directly. Stories: Croker, T. Crofton, Fairy Legends & Traditions of the South of Ireland. Philadelphia: Lea & Blanchard, 1844. Cover illustration: "The Changeling" by Arthur Rackham, 1905. Music: The Snow Queen Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/. Copyright 2022 Kathy Shimpock. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
07 Jun 2022 | "From Bluebeard to Mr. Fox - Corrupting the Legend" (S3, #6) | 00:36:00 | |
In these very dark days, when the world has gone awry, a story comes out of the darkness. In this episode, we're entering a haunting tale with storyteller, Kathy Shimpock. It is a dire tale rarely told to children. Over time, the story grew even darker, more dire and its message corrupted. It is the corruption of that message, that we'll explore. And so, before we can get to the hope, and before we can get to the light, we must first enter the secret chamber of Bluebeard! Sadly, it’s a place we are all too familiar with. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
14 Aug 2022 | "The Witches' Excursion" an Irish Folktale (S3, #7) | 00:20:30 | |
In this episode we’ll explore the Irish folktale “The Witches Excursion.” It was recorded by Patrick Kennedy in the book Legendary Fictions of the Irish Celts published in 1866. Like the Grimm tale, “Frau Holle,” here is another story that began as a myth and became a folktale. We’ll discuss how the character of Queen Medb is reflected in this tale and how the wise crone once again saves the day! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
22 Sep 2022 | Why We Still Remember "Star Wars" and King Arthur's Court (S3, #8) | 00:28:35 | |
In this episode we'll reflect on two stories that demand retelling. In each tale (from "Star Wars" to King Arthur), we'll see how the story is poised to continue through the intervention of a single storyteller. In the sharing of the story, its meaning, values, and Truth continue to inspire and motivate those who stop to listen and tell again. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
04 Nov 2022 | "Ariadne’s Thread" - A Twist on a Greek Myth (S3, #9) | 00:36:15 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will tell you the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. Her version is one you may not have heard before, for it tells this story from the eyes of Ariadne. In doing so, we’ll discover how a single shift in perspective can make all the difference. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
02 Jan 2023 | The Cailleach in "The Adventures of the Sons of Eochaid Mugmedon" (S3, #10) | 00:34:04 | |
In this episode, we’ll be exploring the Cailleach, the Celtic goddess of winter. She’s found in both mythology and folktales in Ireland and Scotland. She sometimes appears as the sovereignty goddess. I’ll read the Irish myth, “The Adventures of the Sons of Eochaid Mugmedon,” which addresses issues of gender, power, land, and kingship. Further, we’ll reflect on our cultural taboos around aging women and how they continue to impact us today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
25 Feb 2023 | Nisse vs. Crone - "Round the Norwegian Yule- Log" (S3, #11) | 00:55:33 | |
In this episode, we’ll be exploring the folklore around the "nisse," a Norwegian house spirit, found throughout Scandinavia (by different names). I’ll read the story “Round the Yule Log,” by P. Chr. Asbjornsen which includes several folktales. Further, we’ll reflect on the negative stereotype of the old maid. What should we do with the stories from the past that no longer fit with our modern sensibilities? For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
08 Apr 2023 | "Hands Lost & Found" - Variations on a Grimm Theme (S3, #12) | 00:36:06 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will explore the Grimm tale, "The Girl Who Lost Her Hands." It's a story that packs a punch and leaves listeners quaking in the dust. Well, maybe that's a bit extreme. You can judge for yourself! We'll look at several versions of the story, its derivation and multiple interpretations. And finally, and perhaps most importantly, there will be an interview with the Handless Maiden herself. Who will give the interview? Why the wise crone, that's who! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
06 May 2023 | More Hands Lost and Found (S4, #1) | 00:28:46 | |
In the last "Wise Crone Cottage Podcast," storyteller, Kathy Shimpock shared the Grimm fairy tale "The Girl Without Hands." This is a continuation of that discussion. This time we'll focus on the earlier 1812 version of the story. We'll see how the Handless Maiden shifts from a persecuted figure into a heroine. We'll also explore the ways this story has been used for both healing and empowering. Finally, Kathy will share her version of this tale. I wonder which you'll enjoy best. I'm sure the wise crone knows. [For best understanding, start by listening to the Season 4, Episode 1 podcast or read the story below.] For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
20 Jun 2023 | The Wise Crone Meets the Devil Again and Again! (S4, #2) | 00:30:14 | |
In this episode, we’ll look at three stories in which an old woman meets and outwits the devil. The first is “Devil’s Bridge,” a Welsh legend. The second, “The Devil and His Grandmother,” is a German folktale recorded by the Brothers’ Grimm. The last story, “Kitta Grau” is from Sweden. The old woman in these tales runs the course of characters from helper to hero and villain too. But no matter what her role, the wise crone knows exactly what to do to come out on top! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
31 Jul 2023 | "The Maiden in the Castle of Rosy Clouds" (S4, #3) | 00:32:49 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will read the literary fairy tale, "The Maiden in the Castle of Rosy Clouds." It's a story written by the Swedish author Harald Ostenson in the early 20th century. We'll identify the differences between traditional folktales and literary tales. Finally, we'll discuss how older characters are depicted in stories and discover how a hero's journey can become an example of positive aging. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
08 Oct 2023 | "Old Rinkrank": a Grimm Brothers Tale (S4, #4) | 00:25:19 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will read the story of “Old Rinkrank.” It’s a Grimm Brother’s tale with a surprising ending. We’ll discuss the innocent persecuted heroine and how her journey differs from the traditional hero’s journey tales. Where is the wise crone in this story? I can’t wait to tell you! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
05 Nov 2023 | "Go I Know Not Whither, Fetch I Know Not What" - A Russian Tale (S4, #5) | 00:40:30 | |
In this episode, the storyteller Kathy Shimpock, will read the Russian tale, “Go I Know Not Whither, Fetch I Know Not What.” It’s a story with two crones: one the wise crone and the other the infamous Baba Yaga. Perhaps she’s a wise crone too. Only time will tell. (Because this is a long story, our discussion will be broken into two parts. This month is the story and next month will be the discussion.) For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
13 Dec 2023 | "Go I Know Not Whither and Fetch I Know Not What" - Part II (S4, #6) | 00:25:03 | |
In this episode, the storyteller Kathy Shimpock, will continue our discussion of the Russian folktale "Go I Know Not Whither and Fetch I Know Not What." In doing so, we'll learn a bit more about Baba Yaga, the Slavic character who's part witch and part wise crone. Who is she in this story? Maybe it's a bit of both. (Because this is a long story, our discussion is broken into two parts. Last month the story was shared and this episode furthers the discussion.) For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
28 Dec 2023 | Krampus, Goblins & Switches, Oh, My! (S4, #7) | 00:45:30 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will focus on the Shadow side of the Christmas holiday. Not all folklore surrounding this time is happy and gay; some of the characters are birthed from our deepest nightmares. This time, we’ll look at Krampus and the goblins from Charles Dickens’s imagination. She'll read “The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton.” It’s a shadowy precursor to the Dickens' story “A Christmas Carol.” For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
21 Jul 2019 | Episode 1 - The Old Woman and the Wicked Oni | 00:19:46 | |
On this episode, Kathy discusses the creation of the Wise Crone Cottage podcast and the importance of folktales today. She'll tell you a Japanese story, "The Old Woman and the Wicked Oni." It's a story that explores the concept of the "Other." We'll see how the wise old woman becomes an unlikely hero, facing her opponents bravely and finding unexpected solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems. All rights reserved. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
01 Feb 2024 | Archetypes in Story & Life (S4, #8) | 00:43:06 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will discuss archetypes with renowned hypnotherapist Linda Bennett. Together, we’ll identify common archetypes and discover how they can be identified in both life and stories. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
08 Apr 2024 | "Tatterhood" - A Norwegian Folktale (S4, #9) | 00:42:50 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will explore a little known Norwegian folktale, "Tatterhood." It's a story in which an unexpected, young girl goes on a hero's journey. She has quite a surprising role to play in a very unusual story. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
28 May 2024 | Chatting 'Bout "Tatterhood" (S4, #10) | 00:45:39 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, meets again with Master Hypnotherapist, Linda Bennett. Together they discuss the Norwegian folktale, "Tatterhood," and explore its many meanings and interpretations by looking at its symbols, metaphors, and archetypes. It's a fascinating model for dream interpretation too. Part 2 of their conversation continues on the "Crone & Queen's Fireside Podcast" where they discuss ways traditional stories can be used as a tool for personal growth and holistic healing. They explore the work of psychologist, Milton Erickson and share ways they've used stories within their own practice. As you’ll soon see, stories can be used to facilitate change in many settings from life coaching to hypnosis, depth coaching to spiritual companioning. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
26 Jul 2024 | Cackling and Crackling: “Frau Trude” Starts a Fire (S4, E11) | 00:24:02 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock explores the Grimm tale “Frau Trude.” It’s a short didactic story that allows for many surprising interpretations. Whether she be a witch or a crone, there’s a lot of cackling and crackling going on. Hopefully, we can stay out of the fire without getting burnt! Either way, she's a friend you'll want to have. Fingers crossed! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
01 Sep 2024 | "The Old Woman and the Tiger" - A Chinese folk tale (S4, E12) | 00:25:50 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will explore the Chinese folktale, “The Old Woman and the Tiger.” The story is retold by Mary Hemingway who grew up in northern China. In this story, we’ll see a different side of the wise crone archetype. No longer a side character, she is now the protagonist. And rather than serving as the “helper,” this old woman puts herself first. She shows us that one person can make a difference and achieve justice to boot. It’s an old message but especially relevant today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
02 Oct 2024 | "Abandoning the Old Woman"; Elder Abuse & Grief (S5, E1) | 00:27:28 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will explore elder abuse, as seen in stories, folklore and actual life. We'll start our exploration with a practice found in Japanese stories called ubasute or "abandoning the old woman." Then we'll shift to modern day America and the recent death of my friend who was killed by a family member in an unspeakable act of "elder abuse." For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
11 Nov 2024 | "Stribor's Forest": A Croatian Tale (S5, #2) | 00:36:41 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading “Stribor’s Forest.” It’s a Croation literary tale written by Ivana Brlic-Mazuranic. It is a tale longer than most, so grab some tea and your journal before we begin. After listening to this story, you might have some thoughts to jot down and ideas to explore. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
13 Dec 2024 | "A Christmas Carol" Read Along - Chapter 1 (S5, #3) | 00:57:36 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. The work is a novella, first published in London by Chapman & Hall in 1843. Because of the story's length, it will be read over the next four episodes. This is chapter one (or what Dickens called Stave One, Marley’s Ghost). You'll find a link in the credits to the tale, so you can read along. At the end of each reading, there will be questions for you to journal and reflect on. Although Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol long ago, this story is relevant for today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
16 Dec 2024 | "A Christmas Carol" Read Along - Chapter 2 (S5, #4) | 00:50:43 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. The work is a novella, first published in London by Chapman & Hall in 1843. Because of the story's length, it will be read over four episodes. This is chapter two (or what Dickens called Stave Two, The First of the Three Spirits). In this story Scrooge will have a visit from "Christmas Past." He will visit his childhood, time when he was apprenticed, and his failed relationship with Belle. You'll find a link in the credits to the tale, so you can read along. At the end of each reading, there will be questions for you to journal and reflect on. Although Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol long ago, this story is relevant for today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
23 Dec 2024 | "A Christmas Carol" - Read Along - Chapter 3 (S5, #5) | 01:06:26 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. The work is a novella, first published in London by Chapman & Hall in 1843. Because of the story's length, it will be read over four episodes. This is chapter three (or what Dickens called Stave Three, The Second of the Three Spirits). In this story Scrooge will have a visit from "Christmas Present." He will visit the home of Bob Cratchit and his nephew Fred. You'll find a link in the credits to the tale, so you can read along. At the end of each reading, there will be questions for you to journal and reflect on. Although Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol long ago, this story is relevant for today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
01 Sep 2019 | Episode 2 - Frau Holle | 00:39:30 | |
In this episode, Kathy tells the story of “Frau Holle,” a German folktale, recorded by the Brothers Grimm. We explore the relationship between its young and old characters - especially the role the wise crone plays in the initiation of the young woman. We also look at the symbolism found within this story to see what it has to offer from a psychological perspective. Finally we discover what Frau Holle can teach us about living today as an elder. today. All rights reserved. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
24 Dec 2024 | "A Christmas Carol" - Read Along - Chapter 4-5 (S5, #6) | 00:58:06 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. The work is a novella, first published in London by Chapman & Hall in 1843. Because of the story's length, it will be read over four episodes. This is chapter four and five (or what Dickens called Stave Four, The Last of the Spirits and Stave 5, The End of It). In this story Scrooge will have a visit from "Christmas Future." He will again visit the home of Bob Cratchit and discover the fate of Tiny Tim and of himself too. You'll find a link in the credits to the tale, so you can read along. At the end of each reading, there will be questions for you to journal and reflect on. My comments on A Christmas Carol can be found on my blog entitled, "Why We Remember A Christmas Carol." Although Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol long ago, this story is relevant for today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
21 Feb 2025 | "The Vampire Skeleton Corpse" an Iroquois Folktale (S5, #7) | 00:27:13 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares the story of "The Vampire Skeleton Corpse." This is a frightening tale from the Iroquois tradition. Although there is never a single meaning for any story, this one has an important teaching for the days ahead. Story: This story is a conflation of early Iroquois variants and my version of the story as told by Joseph Bruchac. Iroquois Stories: Heroes and Heroines, Monsters and Magic as told by Joseph Bruchac (Freedom, CA: The Crossing Press, 1985). This podcast is licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/. Sound effects from my finch "Tweedles." For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
30 Sep 2019 | Episode 3 - Ceridwen's Quest | 00:29:51 | |
In this episode, Kathy Shimpock tells the Welsh tale of "Ceridwen's Quest" also known by the title "The Birth of Taliesin." We then explore the concept of archetypes and especially the archetype of the wise old woman. All rights reserved. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
28 Oct 2019 | Episode 4: The Goose-Girl at the Well | 00:32:40 | |
In this episode storyteller Kathy Shimpock, reads the Grimm brothers' story "The Goose-Girl at the Well." She also explores the character of the crone archetype. Is the crone simply a witch or is she something more? For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
02 Dec 2019 | Episode 5: "The Very Black Witch" from "How Culwhch Won Olwen" | 00:18:35 | |
In this episode storyteller Kathy Shimpock, shares two versions of "The Very Black Witch" found within the story of "When Culwhch Won Olwen." The first is the traditional story as found in The Mabinogion, the second, is a newly created variation. She also discusses the wisdom this witchy Crone can share with women today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
01 Feb 2020 | Episode 6: Awaken to Wonder | 00:28:48 | |
In this episode, storyteller Kathy Shimpock, shares her story "Awaken to Wonder." In this literary tale of the wise crone, we see many of the same elements and plot structures found in traditional folklore. Copyright 2020, Kathy Shimpock. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
02 Mar 2020 | Episode 7: ''Godmother Death and the Healer Urssenbeck" | 00:44:19 | |
In this episode the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock tells you the Grimm Brothers' tale "Godfather Death." She then reads her new version of this story, one that is placed in a much earlier time. Her version is entitled, "Godmother Death and the Healer Urssenbeck," a story derived from several European variants. It is placed in the 1300s, at the time of the Black Death. In this version, the characters are female. In so doing, we'll learn something about gender, history and the wise crone. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
30 Mar 2020 | Episode 8: The Three Bears and the Little Old Woman | 00:23:41 | |
In this episode the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock tells you a little known version of "The Three Bears." In this version, the character of Goldilocks is traded for that of an old woman. This 1837 literary tale was written by Robert Southey. The story reflects Victorian stereotypes and biases that viewed the old and the poor as criminals. We see similar beliefs expressed today. The crone in this story, however, gives us all a dire warning. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
27 Jun 2024 | Episode 9: "Hecate at the Crossroads" | 00:22:47 | |
In this episode the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock explores the relationship of the crone within the maiden, mother, and crone trilogy. She tells the Greek myth of "Demeter and Persephone" and shares a lesser known variation in which Hecate plays a pivotal role. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
31 May 2020 | Episode 10: The Story of One World | 00:27:59 | |
In this episode, the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock shares an original creation myth written in 2014. We'll discuss creation mythology generally and look at what these stories and the wise crone might have to say about the troubled times we face. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
04 Jul 2020 | Episode 11: "Baba Yaga & The Kitchen Witch" | 00:45:25 | |
In this episode, the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock explores the character of Baba Yaga as she confronts "Vasilissa the Beautiful." She will also discuss the way folktales and their characters can impact our lives today. These stories can serve the same function as Vasilissa's tiny wooden doll, providing needed guidance and insights for us all. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
29 Jul 2020 | Episode 12: "Three Spinning Women" | 00:28:18 | |
In this episode, the Storyteller Kathy Shimpock explores stories of spinning, as the wise crone spins the world - to help and guide 7 generations forward and 7 generations back. We'll focus on Native American mythology and compare those stories to the Grimm versions of the "Three Spinning Women." For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
01 Sep 2020 | "The Golden Key" (S2, #1) | 00:16:36 | |
In the first episode of Season Two, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares the story of "The Golden Key." This version of the Grimm Brothers' tale is created for the child in all of us. Once told, we'll see if we can uncover just what was inside that box! Finally, we'll discover what the wise crone found. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
03 Oct 2020 | Disappointing Grannies - Russia's "Hansel & Gretel" (S2, #2) | 00:24:21 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares the story of "The Witch." It's a Russian variant of the Grimm's tale "Hansel & Gretel." In this story, we explore the character of the grandmother. These characters surprise us more in what they don't do than in what they actually do. They stand in stark contrast to the figure of the wise crone. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
03 Nov 2020 | "The Shoes That Were Danced to Pieces" (S2, #3) | 00:23:28 | |
In the third episode of Season Two, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares the story of "The Shoes That Were Danced to Pieces." This Grimm Brothers' tale has variants found throughout Germany and central Europe. We’ll also explore how the wise crone handles youthful indulgence. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
15 Dec 2020 | Santa is Gender-Neutral (S2, #4) | 00:30:19 | |
In this episode, it's all about Santa: the folklore, story, and the greater archetype. I posit the question of whether Santa can be gender-neutral. We'll explore an adapted version of the poem, "A Visit from Santa Claus" written by Clement Clarke Moore, Think on it, for just a moment. Santa as the wise crone? Why not? For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
03 Jan 2021 | "The Little Match Girl" (S2, #5) | 00:25:18 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will share the story of "The Little Match Girl" by Hans Christian Andersen. It is a tragic, Danish, literary tale written in 1845. The subject has similarities to Dicken's "A Christmas Carol" written two years earlier in Victorian England. Both tales focus on the fate of the poor when the world is divided into "haves" and "have nots." We'll also explore the character of the grandmother as a figure of hope and rescue. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
02 Feb 2021 | 'Truth, Lies and Story" (S2, #6) | 00:38:24 | |
In the wake of insurgents overtaking the U.S. capital in pursuit of a “big lie,” this episode explores the truth that is found in stories. The storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will start by reading a Spanish tale entitled “Falsehood and Truth.” Next, we’ll look at those folktales that provide a context to current events. Finally, she will tell you a more positive counterpoint to the first tale. It’s the Yiddish folktale of “Truth and Story.”
For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
04 Mar 2021 | "Crone vs. Cyclops: A Confrontation in the Forest" (S2, #7) | 00:24:00 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will share the story of "The Crone vs. the Cyclops: A Confrontation in the Forest." It’s a fun story filled with motifs from both folklore and mythology that she wrote long ago. These elements fill fantasy literature today and can be an excellent way to get the imagination going. Finally, we’ll explore how these stories can be analyzed for psychological and cultural insights. In many ways, they become dreams made real with wisdom we can take into our daily lives. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
12 Apr 2021 | Spring's Gift - the Flower-Elves! (S2, #8) | 00:28:21 | |
In this episode, we'll explore the magic of spring. I'll share two stories: one from Europe and one from China in which the beauty of the natural world is both honored and rewarded. It's a message we all need to be reminded of after a long cold winter and an even longer pandemic. In these stories we see the creation and protection of the flower-elves who bring forth pure pleasure and joy.
Cover illustration: Vogue Magazine cover, 1913. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
28 May 2021 | More on "The Goose-Girl at the Well" (S2, #9) | 00:36:05 | |
In this episode, the storyteller Kathy Shimpock, will read you the Grimm tale, "The Goose-Girl at the Well." It's a tale within a tale - a story of a young girl's initiation into womanhood and the guiding hand and protection of the wise crone. First discussed in an earlier podcast (S1, #4), this story just won't go away! It is categorized as Aarne-Thompson tale type 923 ('Love Like Salt'). But even more importantly, the old woman in this story is a study of delightful contrasts. Both young and old, trickster and crone, she has much to say about being the elder! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
10 Jul 2021 | "The Story that Grew in My Heart" (S2, #10) | 00:40:16 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will explore the power of story. What is it? How can a simple tale impact our lives so deeply? The story I will tell (as the wise crone) provides one answer. “The Story that Grew in My Heart” was crafted from a book written by Walter Hackett entitled The Swans of BalleyCastle. It contains clear references to Irish mythology and folklore. Finally, we’ll examine the role of the storyteller in sharing these stories.
Cover illustration: Photograph by Pixabay. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
04 Aug 2021 | "Crones in Disguise: Stories of Greek Goddesses" (S2, #11) | 00:17:11 | |
Greek mythology has a full pantheon of gods and goddesses. Each deity has a story line with the past and present clearly defined. There are stories of triumph and petty jealousies. There are stories of conflict. Their relationships with humans and other gods are often tempestuous. Rarely do we see these gods and goddesses as exemplars. More often than not, they teach the audience what not to do and who not to be. In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares stories of the Greek goddesses - Hera, Athena, and Demeter. When does the crone make an appearance in their stories? What does it have to show us about the power of the crone in our lives today? For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
29 Sep 2021 | "Pesta's Norwegian Plague Tales" (S2, #12) | 00:18:53 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock explores Norwegian folktales surrounding the Black Death. She shares a story that incorporates many of the motifs and elements found in these tales. It's the story of two very different old women. One is the wise crone and the other is Pesta! Perhaps we'll uncover some plague wisdom we can use today! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
03 Nov 2021 | "Midwife to the Fairies" (S3, #1) | 00:22:36 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock explores the crone's role as the midwife in Irish and European folktales. The story she will share with you is called "Midwife to the Fairies." In this story, we'll learn more about the crone and even more about those disagreeable fairies. Finally, we'll ponder medieval midwifery, and in doing so perhaps uncover some healing wisdom for today. For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). | |||
05 Jan 2022 | Italy's Holiday Witch -"La Befana" (S3, #2) | 00:20:39 | |
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, explores La Befana, a crone character from Italian folklore. Befana appears on January 5th to give gifts to children. I'll share with you my story that consolidates many of the tales surrounding her. Finally, we'll look at how La Befana compares to some other legendary figures (who also appear during the season of Epiphany). Remember, Befana shows us that it's never too late to go on a true adventure! For more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com). |