Drift Off - Bedtime Stories for Adults

Sleep Audiobooks: Listen anytime and keep them forever → Browse my audiobook collection

Tonight, we’re drifting back to The Palace of the Night by Henry Beston, a beautifully imaginative tale filled with the quiet wonder and mystery of nighttime.

Settle in and allow yourself to be carried into a dreamlike world beneath the night sky, where the darkness feels peaceful and magical and the worries of the day can begin to fade away. With its gentle storytelling and enchanting atmosphere, this is a lovely tale for quieting a busy mind and easing yourself towa...

UPDATE: The wrong audio file was originally attached to this episode. This has now been corrected — the audio you’re now listening to is the intended episode. 

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight’s story, The Kite That Went to the Moon and Back by Evelyn Sharp, was first shared with my Premium listeners back in 2024, and tonight I’m happy to be sharing it with you here on th...

Sleep Audiobooks: Listen anytime and keep them forever → Browse my audiobook collection

Tonight’s story is Briar Rose, the beloved fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, better known to many of us as Sleeping Beauty. 

Settle in as we journey into a faraway kingdom of castles, enchantments, a beautiful princess, and a palace hidden behind a wall of thorns. With its timeless fairy-tale atmosphere and dreamlike quality, Briar Rose is a lovely story to leave the day behind with and gently ease into a peaceful night’s sleep.

For a little extra t...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight's bedtime story is Chapter 5 of The Railway Children by E. Nesbit, calmly narrated to help you relax, unwind, and drift off to sleep. Whether you're rediscovering this timeless classic or experiencing it for the first time, I hope this peaceful audiobook narration becomes a comforting part of your bedtime routine.

So settle in, get comfortable, and let tonight's soothing narration carry you gently t...

 Visit my website: https://www.driftoffpodcast.com/

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to The Adventures of Florian by Henry Beston, first shared here in 2021. This charming tale carries us on a gentle journey filled with imagination, quiet wonder, and the timeless magic of classic storytelling—perfect for ending your weekend on a p...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight, I'm sharing a special preview from Drift Off Premium.

This is the first 10 minutes of Miss Calista's Peppermint Bottle by Lucy Maud Montgomery. If you'd like to continue listening, simply subscribe to Drift Off Premium to enjoy the complete two-part story, along with the full premium library and fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday and Thursday.

I hope you enjoy this l...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight's bedtime story is The Palace on the Floor by Evelyn Sharp, a charming classic fairy tale gently narrated to help you relax, unwind, and drift peacefully to sleep.

With its delightful imagination, quiet enchantment, and timeless storytelling, The Palace on the Floor invites us into a magical world where extraordinary adventures can unfold in the most unexpected places. Evelyn Sharp's graceful writing creates t...

 Visit my website: https://www.driftoffpodcast.com/

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to The Enchanted Elm by Henry Beston, first shared here in 2021. This quiet and enchanting tale invites us beneath the sheltering branches of an ancient elm, where gentle storytelling and a touch of wonder create the perfect atmosphere for d...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight's bedtime story is Chapter 4 of The Railway Children by E. Nesbit, calmly narrated to help you relax, unwind, and drift off to sleep. Whether you're rediscovering this timeless classic or experiencing it for the first time, I hope this peaceful audiobook narration becomes a comforting part of your bedtime routine.

As Bobbie, Peter, and Phyllis continue adjusting to life in the countryside, they f...

 Visit my website: https://www.driftoffpodcast.com/

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to The Queen of Lantern Land by Henry Beston, first shared here in 2021. This enchanting tale invites us into a world of quiet wonder, glowing lanterns, and gentle imagination, making it the perfect story to accompany you as another w...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight's bedtime story is The Enchanted Baby by Henry Beston, originally released on Drift Off Premium in February 2024 and now shared with all listeners on the regular podcast. This enchanting classic short story is gently narrated to help you relax, unwind, and drift peacefully to sleep.

Filled with quiet wonder, gentle imagination, and the timeless charm of Henry Beston's storytelling, The Enchanted Baby offers a...

 Visit my website: https://www.driftoffpodcast.com/

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to Marianna by Henry Beston, first shared here in October 2021. This gentle and beautifully written tale invites us into a peaceful world where quiet moments and graceful storytelling make it the perfect companion for a restful evening.

A...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight, we continue our journey through the beloved classic The Railway Children by E. Nesbit with Chapter 3.

As the three children continue settling into their new life in the countryside, they discover fresh adventures, unexpected moments of kindness, and the simple joys of the world around them. E. Nesbit's warm storytelling and memorable characters make this timeless classic the perfect companion for a peaceful e...

 Visit my website: https://www.driftoffpodcast.com/

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to The Moon Maiden, a gentle fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, first shared here in September 2021. Filled with quiet wonder, moonlit beauty, and Andersen's timeless storytelling, it's the perfect companion for a peaceful evening.

As the story u...

Join Drift Off Premium for fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday & Thursday.  Subscribe on the Drift Off show page in Apple Podcasts or through Supercast: https://driftoff.supercast.com/

Tonight, I'm sharing a special preview from Drift Off Premium.

This is the first 10 minutes of Part 1 of The Golden Key by George Macdonald. If you'd like to continue listening, simply subscribe to Drift Off Premium to enjoy the complete two-part story, along with the full premium library and fresh new bedtime stories every Tuesday and Thursday.

I hope you enjoy this l...

Tonight's story is the magical tale Somebody Else's Prince by Evelyn Sharp. This enchanting fairy tale invites us to journey into realms beyond our own, where princes and adventures are never quite as they seem. 

As we embark on this sleepy journey together, let the soothing narration carry you gently to a land of peaceful dreams. I hope you enjoy tonight's bedtime story. So snuggle up, lay back, relax, and enjoy the story.

Sweet dreams!

Your friend,

Joanne

This podcast is 100% listener-supported, completely ad-free, and made possible by wonderful l...

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Every Sunday evening, I unlock a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we settle in with a gentle old classic: Princess Rosette. Written by Madame d'Aulnoy in 1697, this lovely French fairytale unfolds slowly, with soft, dreamlike imagery perfectly suited to easing you toward sleep.

As we follow Princess Rosette's quiet adventures, the story's gentle rhythm will help calm a busy mind...

Welcome back sleepy listeners!  Tonight we will continue with Chapter 2 from the beloved classic, "The Railway Children" by E. Nesbit. So go ahead and settle in, close your eyes, and let the soothing narration transport you to a world of wonder and timeless enchantment. 

Sweet dreams dear listeners!
Joanne

Music in this episode is 'Freeform' by Rannar Sillard via Epidemic Sound

This podcast is 100% listener-supported, completely ad-free, and made possible by wonderful listeners like you. Thank you!

If you'd like even more relaxing stories throughout the week, Drift Off Premium in...

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Starting tonight, and every Sunday evening moving forward, I am unlocking a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to an incredibly meaningful classic from the vault: The City Under the Sea by Henry Beston. This magical story holds a very special place in my heart, as it was my very first episode, originally published on January 28, 2021. It marks the beautiful...

Tonight we embark on a journey into the pages of Andrew Lang's Olive Fairy Book to discover the whimsical Indian Tale called Dorani. 

We begin our journey with a short little relaxation to help you settle in followed by the story narration. The soft background melody will continue for a short while after the story ends and then it too will fade away. 

I really enjoyed reading this whimsical tale and I hope you enjoy it as well! 

Sweet dreams my friend! Sleep well! 
Joanne 

This podcast is 100% liste...

Hello, sleepy listeners, and welcome.

WELCOME TO DRIFT BACK SUNDAY

Starting tonight, and every Sunday evening moving forward, I am unlocking a favorite classic journey from my archive to help you release the thoughts of the weekend and ease into the new week.

TONIGHT'S STORY

Tonight, we drift back to a deeply relaxing classic from the vault: What the Moon Saw. This unique tale is filled with peaceful imagery designed to wash away any lingering stress and carry you gently into a restful night's sleep.

In this episode, I...

Hello sleepy listeners & welcome!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Starting this weekend, I am launching Drift Back Sundays! Every Sunday night, I will unlock a favorite cozy classic from my archive to help you ease into the workweek. Keep an eye on your feed this Sunday for a beloved favorite!

Tonight, we begin the timeless classic The Railway Children by E. Nesbit.

This beloved story follows three siblings whose comfortable lives are suddenly turned upside down, leading them to a quiet cottage in the countryside where unexpected friendships, small adventures, and acts of kindness...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Tonight's story is a beautiful French fairy tale first published in 1697.

Join Princess Mayblossom on a magical journey filled with enchanted gifts, fairy blessings, unexpected trials, and the promise of happiness beyond adversity. Rich in imagination and timeless charm, this classic tale has captivated readers for centuries.

So settle in, get comfortable, and allow this enchanting story by Madame d'Aulnoy to gently carry you toward a peaceful night's sleep.

Sweet dreams,

Joanne

This podcast is 100% listener-supported, completely ad-free, and made possible by wonderful listeners like you. Thank...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

A short update regarding the ongoing Drift Off Premium issues currently affecting Apple Podcasts subscribers.

Thank you so much for your patience, kindness, and understanding while Apple continues investigating the backend subscription problems affecting premium content and subscriber access.

Existing Apple subscribers needing temporary access to premium content through Supercast are welcome to reach out to me directly.

This podcast is 100% listener-supported with no ads and proud of it! Help me keep this space ad-free! Thank you for your support :)

As a Drift Off Premium member you:

Tonight, drift away with The White Cat by Mary deMorgan — a dreamy and unusual fairy tale filled with enchantment, hidden castles, strange riddles, and a mysterious white cat with secrets of her own. This sleepy fairytale is designed to help you relax, unwind, and gently drift off to sleep.

So get comfortable, settle in, and let the story carry you into a peaceful night’s rest. Sweet dreams!

Joanne

Music in this episode is 'Paintings' by Ookean via Epidemic Sound

This podcast is 100% listener-supported, completely ad-free, and made possible by w...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Welcome back friends! Tonight, we continue our journey with The Bee and the Orange Tree by Madame d’Aulnoy… a dreamy fairy tale of devotion, bravery, and quiet magic.

Before we drift into Part 2, here’s a reminder of where our story left off…

In Part 1, we met Princess Aimée, lost at sea as a baby and raised among ogres—yet somehow growing into a kind, gentle, and courageous young woman. Living in the shadows of danger, she quietly devoted herself to protecting others.

One day, after a fierce storm, she discovers a shipwreck...

Hi everyone, just a quick update.

Some of you may be having trouble accessing your premium content on Apple Podcasts right now. I want to reassure you that your subscription is still active and nothing has been lost.

I’m currently working directly with Apple to get this resolved as quickly as possible.

If you are experiencing this issue, you can also reach out to Apple Support, as they may be able to assist with your individual account.

Thank you so much for your patience and for supporting the podcast — it trul...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Welcome back friends! Tonight we will get sleepy with The Bee and the Orange Tree, an enchanting bedtime story for sleep by the French author Marie-Catherine d'Aulnoy, written way back in the seventeenth century. It's a story full of magic, wonder, and the kind of gentle adventure that's perfect for winding down. 

This is Part One of Two, so get yourself cozy, take a slow breath, and let the day drift away. Sweet dreams!

Music in this episode is 'Lakeside' by Harbours & Oceans via Epidemic Sound

This podcast is 100% listener-supported, completely a...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

Settle in for a gentle, unhurried reading of Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic story of the Ingalls family enduring a brutal winter of blizzards and scarcity in their small Dakota Territory town. Follow along as the family holds fast together through the hardship — perfect for winding down and drifting off to sleep. 

Historical Context Note: This classic story from the late 1800s reflects the cultural perspectives, terminology, and survival practices of the era in which it was written. Some of these vintage elements do not align with modern values and may be uncomfortable for some audiences. We present thi...

It's time to get cozy. 🌙Tonight, I am bringing you a very special compilation episode — a collection of 8 beloved bedtime tales that listeners of Drift Off have already fallen asleep to. Consider this your personal sleep library, gathered together in one long, restful listening experience.

Settle in, let your mind unwind, and allow each story to gently carry you further into relaxation. And when the last tale is told? The soothing sleep music will continue to play, softly for a little while longer, guiding you into a deep and peaceful sleep.

This episode is over 4 hours...