Symbols of Soul

23/03/2026

In this episode, the storyteller Kathy Shimpock will be exploring three legends of sacrifice and heroism. One is the "Burning of the Rice Fields," a legend from Japan. The second is "St. David's Hood" from England and the third is "Tante Tina" from Germany. In each, we'll see how the "little old woman's" or the "little old man's" actions saved the day.https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/18890016-a-storm-is-brewing-three-legends-to-tell.mp3?download=true

31/01/2026

In this episode we’ll discuss a story from the “Arabian Nights” collection. It is entitled “Delila the Wily.” Delila is a trickster figure who brings chaos wherever she goes. But she is much more than that. Her acts of cunning cause the listener to reflect on justice, law, morality and the ability of women to be the author of their own lives. In Delila’s world actions are not black or white, but a multitude of shades of gray. In this episode, we’ll discuss her world and why tricksters are needed now more than ever. www.wisecronecottage.com

22/12/2025

In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares a Scottish story about the changing seasons. It comes as we approach winter solstice in the Northern hemisphere. This is a story of the Cailleach Beira, the Queen of Winter. She may be frightening but she has much to tell us about our role as elders and how we should best approach the winter season. She’s a very wise crone indeed! https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/18387017-on-the-longest-night-cailleach-beira.mp3?download=true

05/12/2025

In this episode the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will continue reading from the Arabian Nights collection, “Delila the Crafty/Wily.” Delila is a trickster figure who brings chaos wherever she goes. Now we'll discover how this wise old woman's story ends. Is she punished or rewarded for her acts? Her acts of cunning cause the listener to reflect on justice, law, morality and the ability of women to be the author of their own lives. In Delila’s world actions are not black or white but a multitude of shades of gray. Be ready to enter that world as you hear the story. https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/18267776-delila-the-wily-arabian-nights-part-ii-s5-12.mp3?download=true

20/11/2025

The wise crone has much to teach us on how to live a happy life. Check out this folktale to learn more about the wise crone archetype.

A blog that explores the ancient world of myth, legend and folklore.

14/10/2025

In this episode the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will read a story from the Arabian Nights collection. Delila is a trickster figure who brings chaos wherever she goes. But she is much more than that. Her acts of cunning cause the listener to reflect on justice, law, morality and the ability of women to be the author of their own lives. In Delila’s world actions are not black or white but a multitude of shades of gray. Be ready to enter that world as you hear the story.
https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/17987330-delila-the-wily-arabian-nights-part-i-s5-11.mp3?download=true

09/10/2025

May we all be blessed to do work we love whether it’s our job or vocation. May we all be blessed to work without wanting anything in return. May we all be blessed to find a family in which to do so. It's the story of The Brownie of Blednoch (http://wisecronecottage.com ).

07/08/2025

In this episode, Kathy Shimpock (the Crone) and Linda Bennett (the Queen) will discuss Becca Levy's book Breaking the Aging Code. Levy's research on positive aging provides ways to improve our health, happiness and life expectancy. We'll discuss the importance of using positive language when talking about aging and we'll explore how life experience and culture can create our age beliefs.

In this episode, Kathy Shimpock (the Crone) and Linda Bennett (the Queen) will discuss Becca Levy's book Breaking the Aging Code.  Levy's research on positive aging provides ways to improve our health, happiness and life expectancy.  We'...

03/08/2025

In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will read to you a Russian folktale: “The Three Sisters and Their Glass Hearts.” It’s a poignant story, nonetheless, and one you’ll long remember.

In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will read to you a Russian folktale: “The Three Sisters and Their Glass Hearts.” It’s a poignant story, nonetheless, and one you’ll long remember.Story:  "The Three Sisters and Their Glass Hea...

14/06/2025

In this podcast, I continue my discussion about the Danish folktale, "Prince Lindworm." It's a story filled with metaphors and symbols. Who doesn't like a story in which a dragon worm marries an unknowing princess?

02/04/2025

In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will share the Danish folktale, “Prince Lindworm.” It’s a story of shadow and light, female agency and transformation. It’s also a story with a sequel. This mash-up or compilation of folktales is filled with metaphors and symbols. There is so much to discuss that will carry this on to the next podcast. https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/16905588-prince-lindworm-a-danish-folktale-s5-8.mp3?download=true

21/02/2025

In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, shares the story of "The Vampire Skeleton Co**se." 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. https://www.buzzsprout.com/461860/episodes/16519582-the-vampire-skeleton-corpse-an-iroquois-folktale.mp3?download=true