Tales for Life

In this episode of Tales For Life, we follow a squirrel’s scramble through choice, consequence, and cold—a parable of indecision nestled in golden leaves. As Tibbins dithers between three hiding places, his scattered efforts come up short, reminding us that exploring options is important—but choosing and committing is what carries us through. A gentle tale for anyone whose focus feels a bit too spread, and whose winter is fast appr...

In this week’s episode of Tales For Life, we explore the power of commitment through a hauntingly beautiful Middle Eastern folktale, The Girl Who Sealed the Door. When Layla volunteers to face the spirits of the cursed palace, she brings not charms or prayers—but a hammer and nails. Her choice to block the way back becomes a metaphor for the kind of resolve that transforms fear into courage. Through vivid storytelling and gentle re...

In this episode, we explore the quiet power of persistence through the African folktale The Flame of Mamba Muntu. When King Zuberi tasks his three sons with trials to determine who will inherit the crown, each responds differently. Jabari charges ahead, Kwame calculates, and Tendo listens, learns, and returns when others stop.

This isn’t a story about triumph in the usual sense—it’s about the space between effort and excuse, and wha...

In this episode of Tales For Life, we journey to Valle Sol for the story of Marisol, a young woman whose quiet persistence transforms not only her fate but the lives of those she loves. Inspired by Andy Andrews’ “I Will Persist…Without Exception,” this tale speaks to anyone who’s wrestled with slow progress, early failure, or the quiet doubt that shadows uncertain paths. Through Marisol’s thread-by-thread determination, we’re remin...

This week on Tales For Life, we revisit The Emperor’s New Clothes—not as a childhood fable, but a sharp reflection on how easily we trade clarity for comfort. When pressure to fit in creeps in, we may start biting back questions or doubting what we see. This story reminds us that sometimes the clearest voice is the one brave enough to say, “Something feels off.” Because shaping your world starts with trusting your own.

Music by Part...

In this episode of Tales For Life, we explore how the choices we make linger—and how yesterday’s actions quietly shape how we’re seen today. Through a rich retelling of Beauty and the Beast, titled Thorns and Velvet, we’re reminded that appearances don’t just reflect what’s outside—they carry echoes of our character and choices. When a weary merchant plucks a rose and sets his daughter on a path toward a mysterious castle, we witne...

In today's world, it often seems like speed is all that matters. Make things happen now. Get things done yesterday. But that's not the way that life works. It's the slow, steady work over time that leads to the beautiful tomorrow. Come along on this episode featuring a Slavic tale that illustrates vividly that perseverance and endurance are the key to happily ever after.

Music by Particle Dogs at https://particledogs.bandcamp.c...

Success is often portrayed as a maze of strategies and philosophies, but at its core lies a single truth—progress begins with action. In this episode, we cut through the noise to explore why movement, not just mindset, is the defining factor in reaching your goals. And to bring the message home, we look to a Norwegian fairy tale where actions—rather than intentions—make all the difference.

Music by Particle Dogs at https://particled...

Success doesn't have to be huge, and it doesn't have to be all at once. In fact, it will never be all at once. And those little successes? Well, those are the steps we have to take to get to the end goal, which really isn't a giant success at all, but a series of little successes on the way. With the help of a couple of fables -- one African and one from Aesop -- this episode takes a look at what true success really is...and wh...

Each one of us has been given some form of talent—but the real question is, are we putting it to use? It doesn’t matter if it feels small or insignificant, or even if you think you’ve got less than others. What matters is that you use what you’ve been given. Not later. Not when it feels perfect. Now. In fact, not only is it important—you’re called to.

In this episode, we turn to one of the oldest and most powerful stories we’ve ever...

What can an old German fairy tale teach us about reaching our goals? Turns out—quite a bit. In this episode, we dive into The Poor Miller’s Boy and the Cat, a charming yet profound story about perseverance, trust, and unexpected rewards. It follows a young apprentice who sets off on a journey, not armed with wealth or talent, but with patience, kindness, and a willingness to stick with the process. His story is a great reminder tha...

If you’ve ever stressed about making everyone around you happy, this episode is for you! Trying to Please Everyone Makes Everyone Unhappy – Including You takes a look at why chasing approval never really works—and how it can leave you feeling worse instead of better. With a lighthearted story featuring Nasreddin Hodja, we’ll explore why it’s so tough to please everyone and what to do instead.

Music by Particle Dogs at https://partic...

Learning isn’t just something we do in school—it’s a lifelong adventure. But sometimes, as adults, we forget that the learning never really stops. Whether it’s moving handling our finances, navigating relationships, or leveling up in our careers, staying curious is key to moving forward. In this episode, we dive into a classic English tale that shows us why embracing learning makes all the difference.

Music by Particle Dogs at http...

In life, the only people who never look silly dancing are the ones who don't dance...and they look even worse for not dancing. The same goes for life. You're not always going to hit the bullseye or succeed every time you try something, but that's okay, because if you never try, you'll never succeed. So enjoy the journey. This fun tale from Japan reminds us to do just that. So tune in and come along for the dance!

Music by Partic...

Have you ever thought you couldn't move forward in life because you didn't have a fancy degree, enough degrees, or were educated in the right place? Does it feel sometimes like that person with all the answers will get the best of you every time? Guess what? Neither one matters! Come along with us for a tale from old India with a message for ancient and modern times alike that reminds us a head full of wisdom beats a head full ...

In this entertaining episode, we delve into the timeless tale "The Husband Who Was to Mind the House," a humorous and wise story from Norway that shines a light on the importance of finding and embracing our true calling in life. Discover how this charming story illustrates that everyone has a unique role and place in the world, and how fully committing to our purpose can bring fulfillment to our lives while positively impacting th...