Sleep with Mythology

40 Episodes
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By: Whisper.fm

Before the world was mapped, it was imagined. We bring the world’s oldest stories to your bedside. Tales whispered through generations are retold in a calm, dreamlike voice to help you drift into restful sleep. Each episode explores a myth or legend, drawn from cultures across time: Greek heroes and Hindu deities, Norse giants, Egyptian underworlds, and the sacred stories of Indigenous lands. These aren’t just fables—they’re portals to wonder, carried on the soft rhythm of a storyteller’s voice. Whether you’re seeking escape, meaning, or peace at the end of the day, these myths offer a gent...

The Legend of Gilgamesh and the Secret of Eternal Life (Mesopotamian mythology)
#38
Yesterday at 11:00 AM

In tonights journey, we traverse the ancient echoes of the Epic of Gilgamesh, a story woven with the timeless threads of human growth and the stark realities of mortality. As we delve into the narrative of a king who transforms from a figure of overwhelming pride to one of profound wisdom, we mirror his quest in the quiet reflections of our own lives. Through Gilgameschs trials and eventual acceptance of lifes limits, we find a gentle invitation to reassess our own paths and the legacies we hope to leave behind. Let us uncover the subtle truths buried in this...


The Legend of Papa Bois (Caribbean folklore)
#36
Last Wednesday at 11:00 AM

Deep in the Caribbeans lush forests, where canopies stretch towards the heavens and a symphony of wildlife whispers, we wander beneath the watchful gaze of Papa Bois, the storied Father of the Forest. Here, the air is thick with the verdant magic of ancient legends, and each leaf and shadow tells tales of respect and coexistence between man and the natural world. Tonight, we follow the transformative journey of a hunter, who under the imposing yet benevolent guidance of Papa Bois, learns the profound interconnectedness of every forest dweller. Let us drift into the embrace of this living forest...


The Myth of Atalanta, the Swift-footed Huntress (Greek mythology)
#34
Last Monday at 11:00 AM

In the whispering shadows of ancient Greek myths, we trace the footsteps of Atalanta, a heroine shaped by the wild and destined for legend. Raised by a bear on the slopes of Mount Parthenion, her life unfolds with the fierce independence and speed of a wind-coursed leaf, revealing a woman who not only survives but thrives against the odds. Her saga encompasses the thrill of the hunt and the complexities of love, as she navigates challenges with the agility of a deer across rugged terrains, her deeds braiding together tales of adventure and the poignant struggle for autonomy. As...


The Story of the Magic Flute (African folklore)
#31
07/04/2025

As we drift into the enchanted narrative of Kofi and his magic flute, we uncover a world where the melody weaves powerful lessons about humility, service, and the true essence of strength. In this myth, the flute symbolizes the innate talents and privileges we hold, beckoning us to use these gifts not for personal gain, but to enrich and harmonize the lives around us. Kofi’s journey teaches us that the act of guardianship extends beyond mere possession; it involves making ethical choices that resonate deeply within our communities. Let us immerse ourselves in this tranquil tale to discover ho...


The Tale of The Ahuizotl (Aztec mythology)
#29
07/02/2025

As we delve into the myth of the Ahuizotl, we explore the intricate dance of curiosity and caution that characterizes the human spirit. Enveloped in the mysteries of water—both life-giving and perilous—this narrative gently guides us through the depths of our psyche, where fear, desire, and transformation intertwine. By reflecting on the Aztec belief that those taken by the Ahuizotl serve a higher purpose, we extend an invitation to ponder the profound passages of our own lives. Join us as we navigate these serene yet shadowy waters, discovering how endings might merely be the soft whispers of new...


The Story of The Enchanted Stag (Hungarian mythology)
#27
06/30/2025

In a realm that breathes beneath veils of enchantment and prophecy, we find ourselves basking in the lore of a magical forest, where the bonds of brotherhood are tested by a quest of love and liberation. As the youngest prince follows a celestial stag through the whispering woods, each step deepens his venture into a world stitched with ancient spells and echoing the wisdom of the trees. The journey is a tapestry of moonlit paths and starlit encounters, where magic and mystery dance quietly in the shadows, waiting to unveil their secrets. Let us drift into these enchanted woods...


The Story of The Monkey and the Shark (Swahili folklore)
#24
06/27/2025

Beneath the dappled shadows of a tropical island, we find resonance in the story of a clever monkey, whose days are woven with the gentle rhythms of nature and the thrill of unexpected camaraderie. As he swings from the lush branches, nibbling on sun-kissed fruits, a fateful encounter by the sea invites him onto the path of adventure and deceit, guided by a shark with hidden motives. Together, they glide over whispering waves, beneath a vast sky, the air thick with the salt of intrigue and the murmur of ancient sea secrets. Join in the delicate dance of trust...


The Legend of The Sacred Lake Titicaca (Incan mythology)
#22
06/25/2025

In the stillness of a world enshrouded in perpetual twilight, we wander back to the mythic origins at Lake Titicaca, where the Incan god Viracocha invoked the cosmos into being. Beneath an eternal canopy not yet pierced by star, sun, or moonlight, he sculpted life from the lakes depths and whispered civilization into the hearts of stone-born humans. This sacred basin of water, believed to weave the tactile with the divine, served as a crucible for the very elements of existence, where pilgrims once converged in reverence. Tonight, let the ancient echoes of creation and the serene expanse of...


The Story of The Winged Hussars and the Divine Wind (Polish folklore)
#20
06/23/2025

In the deep folds of Central Europe’s history, we drift back to the 16th century, where legends of the Winged Hussars unfurl like the wings at their backs. These storied cavalrymen, clad in distinctive winged armor, rode with the thundering force of a storm, their presence as formidable as the divine winds of Eastern lore that once scattered invaders on distant battlefields. Amidst the crescendo of clashing swords and the whispered strategies carried by the breeze, the Hussars tale intertwines with myth and the palpable breath of angels guiding their charge. As night draws in, let the echoes of...


The Tale of The Urashima Tarō (Japanese mythology)
#17
06/20/2025

Amidst the gentle lapping of waves and the timeless dance of the shoreline, we find ourselves in the tranquil life of Urashima Tarō, a humble fisherman whose days are woven into the rhythms of the sea. On a day kissed by sunlight, Tarōs encounter with a distressed turtle sets him on a mystical path beneath the azure depths, to a realm ruled by the Dragon King. In the ethereal Dragon Palace, time flows like water, filled with celestial music and deep, existential musings, until a pull towards home tugs at Tarō’s heart. Join us as we drift into...


The Legend of The Njuzu, the River Spirits (Zimbabwean mythology)
#15
06/18/2025

In the verdant heart of Zimbabwe, where the earth breathes through its undulating landscapes, our sleepcast tonight ushers us into the mystical realms of the Njuzu, enigmatic spirits dwelling in secluded, sacred bodies of water. Beneath surfaces that shimmer with reflected sun, these beings, part human, part fish, safeguard ancient wisdom and spiritual legacies. Well follow whispered tales of villagers drawn by fate or curiosity to these enchanted waters, where time flows unlike the world above and profound transformations await. Let the ethereal songs of the Njuzu guide you into a sleep filled with the deep mysteries and serene...


The Story of The Great Hare (Algonquian mythology)
#13
06/16/2025

In the twilight of a nascent world, the Great Hare dances across a canvas of unformed earth, shaping valleys and mountains with his divine touch. With each deliberate movement, he weaves together the threads of creation, setting rivers on their courses and teaching birds the art of song. This mythical shaper confronts chaos with wisdom and wit, crafting tales that echo as legends through the silent halls of time. As we tread softly into the realm of sleep, let the story of the Great Hare remind us of the beauty born from harmony and the gentle power of a...


The Myth of The Golem of Prague (Jewish folklore)
#10
06/13/2025

In the shadowed alleys of historic Prague, under the enigmatic haze of 16th century twilight, a legend emerges from the whispers of mysticism and the depths of ancient lore. Here, Rabbi Loew crafts the Golem from river clay, an enigmatic sentinel born out of necessity and steeped in the sacred mysteries of Kabbalistic texts. In the silence of the Old New Synagogues attic, the Golem lies dormant, a poignant symbol of protection and the profound complexity of creation. Let us drift into the legend, where myth and history blend beneath the watchful gaze of the stars.This episode is...


The Tale of The Taniwha (Māori mythology)
#8
06/11/2025

In the lush tranquility of Polynesia, under the endless expanse of the azure sky, we delve into the ancient lore of Tamure and Tuhirangi, whose story is etched into the essence of the islands. Amidst the rhythmic sway of the sacred island of Raiatea, we find Tamure, a gifted fisherman and master of the tamure dance, whose life intertwines deeply with Tuhirangi, the ethereal ocean spirit guarding marine harmony. Their narrative, a profound testament to the symbiosis between humanity and the vast seas, unfolds in a dance of respect and wisdom, as they guide their people towards understanding and...


The Story of The Fire-Breathing Basilisk (European mythology)
#6
06/09/2025

As twilight deepens across a medieval European village cradled by an ancient forest, whispers of a legendary basilisk stir the cool air—a creature born of serpents egg and cloaked in deadly folklore. Villagers, embroiled in a dance of fear and courage, find their fates intertwined with this mysterious beast, whose gaze promises doom yet also reveals a path to collective strength. Guided by the wisdom of an old crone and the valor of a young man, they discover that the monsters we face are not just those that lurk in the shadows but also the fears that reside wi...


The Story of The Tupilaq (Greenlandic Inuit mythology)
#3
06/06/2025

Beneath the stark, unforgiving skies of Greenland, we delve into the shadows of a chilling indigenous legend: the myth of the Tupilaq, a spectral creature born of deep vengeance and darker magic. In the cold embrace of Arctic nights, whispered incantations and forbidden rituals breathe life into this fearsome harbinger of doom, crafted from the sinister amalgam of bone, sinew, and sorrow. As we explore the icy waters where these malevolent spirits drift, seeking their quarry, the protective chants of shamans resonate, a testament to the fierce clash between ancient spectral forces and the guardians of spiritual well-being. Submerge...


The Tale of The Bohrah (Aboriginal Australian mythology)
#1
06/04/2025

Escape to the mystical, untouched wilds of Australia in this sleep-inducing episode from 'Sleep with Mythology'. Immerse yourself in a captivating, ancient tale of The Bohrah, a symbol of survival, kinship, and deep ecological balance originating from the wisdom-filled Wiradjuri tribe. With each quiet breath, let your worries float away as you travel back in time to Australia's sacred Dreamtime. Juxtaposed against a backdrop of time-worn landscapes under a whispering eucalyptus canopy, the fascinating world of the iconic kangaroo awaits.


The Legend of The Leshy (Slavic mythology)
#183
06/02/2025

Journey deep into the Slavic woodlands, where leaves rustle with ancient secrets and the earth whispers of millennia past. Encounter the enigmatic Leshy, a guardian spirit embodying both tranquility and tempest, serving as a bridge between our world and the arcane mysteries of the wild. Peel back the layers of Eastern European folklore, explore narratives echoing our ecological present, and discover how these age-old tales shape cultural identity. This isn't just a bedtime story, it's a heartfelt insight into a culture deeply intertwined with nature.


The Myth of the Celestial Stag (Hungarian mythology)
#180
05/30/2025

Embark on a mystical voyage in tonight's episode of Sleep with Mythology, titled 'The Myth of the Celestial Stag'. This transcendent journey traverses magical forests and celestial realms, tracing an emblematic narrative deeply infused in Hungarian heritage. Revered not just as a creature but a spirit guide, this celestial stag symbolizes leadership, fertility, and cosmic exploration. Discover how the ancient Magyars used this myth as a spiritual compass, teaching basic values while nursing deep respect for nature. As you relax and listen, you'll wade through the timberlands of ancient Hungary and perhaps find resonance in your own cosmic quests...


The Story of the Seven Macaw (Mayan mythology)
#178
05/28/2025

Journey with us through far-off jungles and towering temples under a moonlit sky as we unravel the tale of the Seven Macaw. Extracted from the 'Popol Vuh', this epic tale explores themes of power, deceit, and human arrogance. Let this bedtime story weave together cosmic wisdom and earthly lessons, carrying you to sleep on the ancient whispers of the Maya. Uncover profound truths about the human condition; but beware, once intertwined in the vivid hues of this celestial drama, your dreams may never be the same. Are you ready to journey into the star-kissed land of sleep?


The Tale of the Stone Woman (Mexican folklore)
#176
05/26/2025

Journey into the heart of ancient Yucatán in tonight's episode of "Sleep with Mythology: The Tale of the Stone Woman". As we tread softly through the mystical realms of Mayan folklore, immerse yourself in an intoxicating blend of history, myth, and wisdom. Whisked back in time, meet Ix Mucané, embodying hope, fear, and the celestial dance of destiny. Spectacularly anchored in the verdant jungle and monumental Mayan temple, feel the pulsating spirit resilient and enduring, challenging the bounds of sacrifice and protection. As her tale unfolds, bask in the tranquility of the sacred grounds, ready to be swept aw...


The Tale of the Nymph Daphne and Apollo (Greek mythology)
#173
05/23/2025

Immerse yourself in the mystical world of ancient Greece in this episode of 'Sleep with Mythology'. As night falls, let the enchanting tale of the nymph Daphne and Apollo lull you into tranquility. Traversing unrequited love, personal autonomy, and transformation, the story uncovers deep-seated human themes. You'll discover not just a captivating tale, but also the laurel tree's latent symbolism for peace, victory, and poetic inspiration, fostering reflection as you drift into sleep. Let go of today's worries, allow the age-old whispers to guide you through an exciting escapade in a past both splendid and somber. Dive in, and...


The Story of the Wendigo’s Curse (Algonquian mythology)
#171
05/21/2025

” Unearth a horror tale spun around a lesson in survival, community, and morality. Discover the Wendigo, a monster born from the most dire circumstances, and the chilling warning it carries. Shiver not from the cold, but from the thought-provoking mythology of North America's erstwhile wintry landscapes. Is the line between man and monster as clear as it seems? Experience a sleep story that mirrors man's primitive fears and desires, veiled in the icy whisper of the north wind. Listen now, if you're brave enough.


The Story of Alkonost and Gamayun (Slavic mythology)
#169
05/19/2025

Dive into the heart of Eastern Europe with "Sleep with Mythology", as we weave the celestial tales of Alkonost and Gamayun. Far more than creatures of legend, they represent interconnections between the human and the divine in a time when man and spirituality were two sides of the same coin. Alkonost's song carries peace and joy, while Gamayun's wisdom rises above earthly limitations. Intriguing, isn't it? As you journey through their stories, discover the radiating relevance of these mythical figures in today's world. So, hit 'play', take a backseat to the modern chaos and let the mystic stories of...


The Legend of Vasilisa the Beautiful (Russian folklore)
#166
05/16/2025

Beneath the velvet cloak of night, we unfurl a tale steeped in the mystique of Russia's verdant forests and the eerie glow of a witch's fire. Picture a land where myths serve as moral compasses, and the mystical dances with the mundane. Encounter Vasilisa, a beacon of resilience and grace, navigating societal constructs and natural clashes. This is not just an episode; it's a journey through time and legend where truth lurks in shadows and wisdom whispers upon the wind. Surrender your senses, and let the tale unfold.


The Myth of the Black Dog (British folklore)
#164
05/14/2025

As we explore the spine-tingling folklore of Black Shuck, our journey will carry you across the supernaturally charged landscapes of East Anglia, offering an eerie yet fascinating bedtime story. Uncover the dread and intrigue conjured by this spectral hound's footsteps as it roams through English history, igniting the imagination and reinforcing social bonds. Packed with mystery, history, and cultural exploration, this episode promises not only a sleep-inducing experience, but also a captivating adventure into the paranormal corners of English folklore. Relax, listen, and surrender to the whispers of the past.


The Story of The Water of Life (European folklore)
#162
05/12/2025

Dive into the swirling mists of time with 'Sleep with Mythology,' as our latest episode, 'The Story of The Water of Life' takes you on a mesmerising journey across the medieval landscapes of ancient Europe. Concealed within this narrative lies the timeless quest for eternal youth, allure of enchanted waters, and an insight into the enduring human yearning. Traverse through the labyrinth of this stunning folk tale, absorb lessons of valor, and contemplate the legacy we leave behind, all while sinking softly into realms of restful slumber. Join us in this tangle of wisdom and enchantment, and let...


The Tale of Oisín and Tír na nÓg (Irish mythology)
#159
05/09/2025

Tonight, we voyage to ancient Ireland with "The Tale of Oisín and Tír na nÓg". Lose yourself in a world where time stands still, an enchanting realm where beauty thrives, laughter is ample, and youth unending. As the poignant ache of eternal nostalgia sets in, question your understanding of happiness when faced with the relentless march of time. Listen now and let this mesmerizing tale of love, adventure, and nightly wonder transport you to the edge of sleep's welcoming embrace.


The Story of the Djinn (Arabian mythology)
#157
05/07/2025

Dive into the captivating episode of 'Sleep with Mythology', titled 'The Story of the Djinn'. Get whisked away to the vibrant realms of ancient Arabia as we unravel the mythos of the elusive Djinn. Explore how destiny entwines a hearty merchant, Khalid, with the formidable Djinn, Kazim, amidst a sandstorm mystery. As the shadows of our campfire begin their mystical dance, join us in a journey that transcends time, where metaphysical dialogues fuel our exploration. Don't just dream, dive into realms unseen and traverse dimensions unknown, unraveling age-old wisdom nestled within these enticing Arabian tales. Step into a world...


The Story of the Aztec Flower Wars (Aztec mythology)
#154
05/05/2025

Drift away in the spellbinding world of Aztec mythology and reimagine a time when wars weren't just about territorial conquests but sacred rituals. The Aztecs painted a vibrant collage of culture and cosmos, their Flower Wars serving as the nexus between the earthly and the divine. Get ready for a captivating journey of valor, strategy, existence, power, and divine order. Can wars be more than mere conflicts? Listen to this sleepcast and explore the layers of societal significance and lessons for the present held in this enchanting tale.This episode is hosted by Rachel Brown. Check out more of...


The Myth of the Seven Sleepers (Islamic and Christian mythology)
#151
05/02/2025

This treasured tale, woven into both Islamic and Christian heritage, is a captivating journey through the ancient Roman Empire. Gentle sleepers, prepare for a night time voyage to Ephesus' rugged landscapes, sacred assemblies, and whispered twilight prayers. This isn't just any story – it's an allegory of faith, resilience, and endurance that has echoed across cultures and centuries. As we peel back the symbolic layers, you'll discover an enchanting world and profound inner strength. Play now, and let us unravel the secrets together.This episode is hosted by William Davis. Check out more of our shows and get your free tr...


The Story of the Horned Serpent (Iroquois mythology)
#149
04/30/2025

In the episode "The Story of the Horned Serpent," let the whispers of the Iroquois, or Haudenosaunee, cradle you to sleep as you traverse ancient forests swathed in mythology. Unravel the riveting wonders of the Horned Serpent, an emblem of natural forces both majestic and unpredictable. This sleepcast isn't just storytelling—it's a heartfelt union of history, culture, and profound lessons that echo into the present day. Surrender to the soft serenade of stories and slumber, unmasking wisdom that guides, inspires, and illuminates—even under the starlit veil of sleep.This episode is hosted by William Davis. Check out more...


The Story of the Shapeshifting Pooka (Irish mythology)
#147
04/28/2025

In this delightful episode of “Sleep with Mythology,” immerse yourself in the enigmatic tale of the Pooka, a shape-shifting entity nestled within Ireland's rich folklore tapestry. Our narrative layers whispers of enchantment with the shroud of mystique that veils the emerald isles, spiraling through the untamed edges of civilization to the heart of the mythical. As this unique story unfolds under a starry cloak, it nudges against the boundary between reality and dream. Succumb to the allure of our almost tangible narration, uniquely captivating for its balance of sheer allure and a dash of danger. Dive into the shadows wher...


The Story of the Queen of Sheba (Ethiopian mythology)
#144
04/25/2025

Immerse yourself in the "Sleep with Mythology" episode, "The Story of the Queen of Sheba", where the intrigue of ancient royalty meets the soothing power of sleepcast. Experience a mysterious, opulent world from Ethiopian ethos, where earthy riches intertwine with divine wisdom, monarchs were philosophers, and kingdoms were hubs for cultural exchange. Journey with Queen Makeda to a distant land seeking knowledge from the wise King Solomon. As you delve into their historical dialogues, allow the entrancing narrative to lull you into a tranquil sleep. So, plunge into this realm where wisdom was the greatest currency, and let the...


The Tale of Tiddalik the Frog (Aboriginal Australian mythology)
#142
04/23/2025

Embark on a modern re-telling of an ancient tale with "Sleep with Mythology's" latest episode, "The Tale of Tiddalik the Frog". Journey back to the primal majesty of unscathed Australia, weaving through the iconic narratives of Aboriginal Australian mythology. Experience the legendary Tiddalik, a creature of gigantic proportions and boundless appetite, derived from the profound ecological richness of Aboriginal lore. Let this story entangle you in timeless lessons of nature's stewardship, balance, and the perils of greed. Cozy into the night as this mesmerizing fable carries you to a realm where colossal frogs consume entire rivers, and wisdom emerges...


The Story of Prince Ivan and the Gray Wolf (Russian folklore)
#140
04/21/2025

Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of Slavic legends with "Sleep with Mythology". In this episode titled, "The Story of Prince Ivan and the Gray Wolf," journey with our protagonist, Prince Ivan, an emblem of innocence and bravery, as he ventures across vast landscapes filled with mystical creatures and daunting trials. This isn't just a fairy tale, it's a reflection of life's intricate mix of challenges & victories. As the Russian night air fills your senses, explore a world where reality entwines with magic. With lessons on courage, loyalty, and integrity etched in every turn, this captivating tale promises a...


The Legend of the Cailleach (Scottish folklore)
#137
04/18/2025

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Scottish highlands with "The Legend of the Cailleach" episode from ‘Sleep with Mythology’. Enter a realm sculpted by the Blue Hag of Winter, a character as deep and elemental as the rugged landscapes she reigns. This sleepcast lets you traverse through the craggy peaks, frigid lochs, and experience the transition from the chill of winter to the warmth of spring. Get lost in the tale of the Cailleach, a fierce protector of winter, and discover an intimate dance between myth and nature. Witness the harsh beauty of the seasons and awaken a resi...


The Story of Sun Wukong’s Battle in Heaven (Chinese mythology)
#135
04/16/2025

Escape to the lush landscapes of mythical China in this episode of 'Sleep with Mythology'. Dive into the legendary tale of Sun Wukong, the exceptional Monkey King who dared to challenge heaven itself. Traverse the blurry boundaries between mortal and divine as we navigate the winding tales of "Journey to the West". Will Sun Wukong’s spectacular display of wit and strength spark courage in you to question the invisible boundaries in your life? Step into another dimension where celestial secrets whisper wisdom into your dreams. Sleep has never been more mystical. Ready for an adventure? Close your eyes an...


The Tale of The Monkey and the Turtle (Philippine folklore)
#134
04/14/2025

Immerse yourself in ancient Southeast Asia with this episode of Sleep with Mythology, ‘The Tale of The Monkey and the Turtle’. Delve deep into the heart of the Philippines, weaving through a landscape rich in age-old wisdom and vibrant fables. You'll meet two remarkable characters - a crafty monkey and wise turtle, their conflict echoing our own struggles and triumphs. Set against the verdant backdrop of the Philippine forests, this tale holds a mirror to humanity, exploring our vices and virtues. Surrender to the night as these voices of the past lull you into restorative slumber, a journey of ench...


The Tale of Anubis and the Weighing of the Heart (Egyptian mythology)
#131
04/11/2025

Immerse yourself in a mystical odyssey with "Sleep with Mythology"'s episode, "The Tale of Anubis and the Weighing of the Heart". Traverse the ancient Nile and plug into the enigmatic folds of Egyptian mythology. Rest and unravel the legendary tale of Anubis, the divine guardian of the afterlife, whose somber judgment determined the fate of souls. Marvel at the resounding legacy in the whispers of the papyrus reeds and stone glyphs of the Great Pyramids. As we descend into slumber, let's ponder upon a civilization's eternal quest for balance, justice, and truth that still resonates today. Will your...