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Good Stories Podcast

Good Stories Podcast

by Jody Gabrielson and Stephen Keck

Season 1

Becoming People Who Read

Our audio gets better after this first episode - we promise! Jumping in with both feet and learning as we go. Welcome!

Photogen and Nycteris: A George MacDonald Fairytale

Join us as we discuss the world of George MacDonald -- who C.S. Lewis called 'the Teacher'. We jump into his fairytales with Photogen and Nycteris - the day boy and the night girl. We talk about their lives and growth -- And the mad witch who imprisoned them.

JRR Tolkien's Leaf by Niggle

In this episode, we’re diving into J.R.R. Tolkien’s Leaf by Niggle; a short but beautiful story that describes our friend Niggle as he strives to create his perfect tree, leaf by leaf. Initially he fails but in collaboration with his neighbor Parish, he builds something far greater. Whether Tolkien meant for the names of Niggle and Parish to have deeper meaning or just "picked at random from the first name I came to in the phone directory" (from the letters of JRR Tolkien), he uses both characters to create meaningful symbols of love, work, and relationship. This story -- like Niggle's tree -- is a gift. Enjoy!

A King Arthur Sampler: Legends and History

Dedicated to David. This episode was a labor of love as the story of Arthur spans centuries and countless books. Combine that with regional and oral stories passed down over time AND academic and archaeological research, there's always more to go! Most people know 'a little bit' about King Arthur. We hope this sampling of history and stories about the Once and Future King helps you better understand how much more there is to his tale and gives you a glimpse of the wonderful expanse of stories associated with Arthur. While what's told about Arthur changes over time, it's important to hold on to the light and the good of stories told before as well. The legend of King Arthur was, and still is, a truly good story.

C.S. Lewis and the Great Divorce of Heaven and Hell

In this episode, we invite you to look at heaven and hell through the eyes of C.S. Lewis. The Great Divorce presents a somewhat bizarre but deeply insightful “imaginary supposal,” where Lewis imagines what it might look like for a person to choose hell over heaven. The story shows personal examples of how a person’s thoughts and choices can shape their eternity—and the tension between the self-centered nature of hell and the liberating joy of heaven. But The Great Divorce isn’t just a reflection of the consequences of rejecting heaven; it is also a beautiful and hopeful invitation to choose transformation, freedom, and the love of God. The hope that even those who are stuck in darkness can find redemption and salvation in the light of heaven is woven throughout the narrative. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how far we’ve fallen, the possibility of redemption is always within reach.

Mostly Magic: Stories That Make Children Laugh

This episode we walk through an anthology of children's stories designed to make children laugh -- and bonus that it is an integral piece of our childhood memories. These stories are full of adventure and wonder! And we love sharing these stories with others and we hope they warm your heart, make you laugh a bit, and hopefully remind us all that a little magic is always within reach. Join us as we meet some unforgettable characters, and discover that the best stories aren’t just told—they’re felt.

The Ball and the Cross by GK Chesterton

We're glad you're here! This episode dives into GK Chesterton and his book, The Ball and the Cross. In a rollercoaster plot, two sworn enemies demand a duel to the death—only to find themselves paired together on a wild adventure, dodging the police, confronting their own beliefs, and maybe even becoming friends along the way. We also explore some amazing paradoxes from Chesterton—who was also known as the Prince of Paradox! Listen in to discover his favorite party concept and the fascinating idea behind Chesterton’s Fence. Buckle up as there are some crazy twists and turns in this story but also some wonderful philosophy and classic Chesterton sense of humor!

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry: A Walk of Healing

Join us as we dive into The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce. A heartwarming and deeply moving story about an ordinary man who embarks on an extraordinary journey -- not for himself but to save an old friend. What starts as a simple walk to the mailbox turns into a life-changing trek across England, filled with memories, unexpected friendships, and the quiet power of hope. In this episode, we explore Harold’s transformation, the emotional weight of his journey, and the beautiful storytelling that makes this book unforgettable. Come enjoy this journey with us—one step at a time.

Mary Poppins: She's Totally a Time Lord

Join us as we explore the Mary Poppins books, which differ quite a bit from the movies, as Jane and Michael experience even wilder adventures. There are some of the same magical nanny vibes but turns out Mary has a whole lot in common with Dr Who! She blows in on the East wind to help the Banks family, bringing both magic and some strict rules to the household. Our favorite chapters include stories about delicious gingerbread and painting the skies with stars as well as a red cow who can dance the Highland Fling.

A Hobbit's Tale - And Happy Tolkien Reading Day!

Tolkien reading day is tomorrow -- March 25th!! And to celebrate the author as well as our 10th episode, we are walking through Middle Earth side-by-side with Bilbo Baggins -- in the wonderful adventure of The Hobbit. It's a classic hero's journey with a flavor all its own! Bilbo encounters a wizard, dwarves, trolls, elves, goblins, a shape-shifter along with a dragon! He riddles his way through danger and learns his own skills as a rather trustworthy thief. Whether you've read it before or you're just setting off on your first adventure, this episode is an invitation to learn about hobbits and hear why this little book holds such a big place in our hearts.

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