Bitesized Folklore

We’re diving into a super intriguing tale today about a girl named Rashiecoats, who’s got not just one, but three incredible coats that are as magical as they sound. Picture this: a king’s daughter who’s bright and capable, but facing a not-so-cool marriage proposal from a stubborn dude who thinks he’s got it all figured out. Instead of just rolling over, she heads to the edge of the woods and meets a henwife who gives her the wild idea to ask for some impossible gifts to dodge the wedding – think golden coats and feathered showstoppers...

Get ready to dive into the enchanting, yet slightly perilous world of the Leanan Sidhe, the fairy muse of Irish folklore! Tonight, we're unpacking how this captivating figure can light up the hearts of artists or, you know, totally drain the life outta 'em. We’ll explore two sides of her coin: on one hand, she’s the inspiring spirit that brings poets back from the brink, like Aodan who helps King Eugene rise from the ashes of defeat. But flip that coin, and you’ll find a darker twist where she’s a charm that binds artists even in death...

We're diving into the wild, misty hills of the Scottish Highlands to meet the Bauchan, a creature who's like your best mate and the flatmate from hell all rolled into one. Picture this: a hairy little dude who can crash at your place uninvited, eat your food, and maybe even rearrange your furniture when you’re not looking. But don’t let that fool you—Bauchan aren't evil; they just love to mess around! We’ve got a hilarious tale about a shepherd who learned the hard way what happens when you offer an oat cake to the wrong kind of...

Get ready to kick back and dive into the tale of the lazy beauty and her aunts, where we uncover the sneaky side of hard work—or the lack thereof! So, this girl is basically a master of dodging chores, turning heads while avoiding any actual effort like it’s her full-time job. But when her mom kicks her out for being as useful as a chocolate teapot, she stumbles into the company of some seriously hard-working aunts who show her the ropes—or, well, the spinning wheel, to be precise. Spoiler alert: she learns the art of deception, convin...

Alright, folks, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the Scottish Highlands, where the winds whisper secrets and the shadows dance with danger. We’re unpacking the chilling legend of the Baobhan Sith —a bewitching beauty who's not just a pretty face but a straight-up vampire spirit looking to snag your soul. Picture this: four hunters chilling by a campfire, hoping for some female company, and boom—these stunning ladies in green show up, but hold your horses, it ain't a fairytale. As night falls and the music plays, these enchanting figures morph into something straight out of your wor...

We're diving into the enchanting legend of Oisin in Tirna Nog, where love, loss, and the relentless tick-tock of time collide in the most beautiful way. Picture this: Oisin, a total legend himself, gets swept off his feet by Niamh, a princess from the land of eternal youth. Together, they gallivant through a magical paradise that makes even the best vacation spots look like a roadside diner. But as time rolls on, our boy Oisin starts feeling a little homesick, which is a total bummer because, spoiler alert, time’s not exactly on his side. So, buckle up as we...

We're diving into the wild and wicked tale of the Nuckelavee, a monstrous mash-up that's part horse, part human, and 100% nightmare fuel. Picture this skinless beast from the Orkney Islands, cruising the stormy shores, spreading fear with its gaping shark-like mouth and those veins just hanging out for everyone to see—yikes! We’ll uncover how this creepy critter embodies the dread of disease and the unpredictable nature of the sea, leaving the islanders with a healthy respect and a serious case of the heebie-jeebies. But don’t you worry, there’s a glimmer of hope in all that horror...

Today, we’re exploring a tale of envy, regret, and redemption with the story of the twelve wild geese. A queen who’s got everything but a daughter, and in a moment of longing, she makes a wish that spirals into chaos. Spoiler alert: her wish comes true, but it comes with a heavy price—her 12 sons are turned into geese! As the story unfolds, we see the daughter, Snow White and Rose Red, on a quest to save her brothers and break the curse while keeping her mouth zipped for a whopping five years. Yeah, you heard me right...

Alright, folks, get ready to dive into the eerie halls of Kinneil House, where history and hauntings collide like two old pals at a bar! We’re talking about the one and only Lady Lilyburn, the ghost who’s been hanging around this Scottish estate long enough to earn herself a reputation. Picture this: a grand house with sealed upper floors, creaky stairs that lead to nowhere, and the unmistakable feeling that someone—or something—is always watching you. Lady Lilyburn’s story is a wild mix of nobility, tragedy, and a dash of mystery that’ll keep you guessing. Wh...

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Today, we're diving deep into the flickering legend of Brigid, the ultimate multi-tasker of Irish lore—she's a saint, a goddess, a healer, and even a blacksmith! Seriously, this woman is so legendary that she blurs the lines between myth and history, making her one of those figures you just can’t ignore. Born in the fifth century, Brigid's story is lit with miracles like overflowing barrels and turning bathwater into beer—becaus...

We're diving deep into the vibes of Brigid today, not the saintly version, but the original goddess who’s got roots older than your grandma's old recipes. Think of her as the ultimate triple threat: the poet who sparks creativity, the healer who brings life back to the land, and the smith who forges strength through fire. We'll be chillin' in pre-Christian Ireland, where Brigid was more than just a pretty face—she was the heart of the community, inspiring poets and healing the sick. Even after Christianity rolled in and tried to ghost her, she stuck around, transforming into...

Today, we're diving headfirst into the spine-tingling tale of the Redcap, a wicked little goblin lurking in the shadows of ancient ruins between Scotland and England. Picture this: a creature that thrives on the blood of its victims, with a cap that gets its vibrant color from the very essence of those it slays. Yeah, you heard that right—this guy needs to keep killing just to stay alive! We explore the story of William de Soulis, a not-so-nice nobleman who made a deal with this bloodthirsty goblin, thinking he could get away with murder (literally). Spoiler alert: it di...

Today, we’re diving into the epic tale of the Salmon of Knowledge, where destiny and a sprinkle of luck collide in the most unexpected ways. It’s all about how true wisdom doesn’t just show up at your doorstep; it finds the one who's ready to roll with it, and boy, does that story take some wild turns! Meet our hero, Fionn mac Cumhaill, who didn't start as a legend but as a curious lad named Demne, just trying to cook a fish without burning his thumb—spoiler alert: he totally does! That little mishap leads him to a cos...

We’re diving deep into the mystical mist of the Scottish Highlands today, where we chat about the spine-tingling legend of Am Fear Liath Mor, aka the big grey man of Ben Macdui. Picture this: you’re hiking up the second highest peak in the UK, and you start feeling like someone—or something—is right on your tail. Yeah, that’s exactly what a bunch of hikers have experienced over the years. From eerie footsteps matching your own to shadowy figures lurking just out of sight, the vibes up there are straight-up haunting. So, is this grey dude just a fig...

We’re diving headfirst into the eerie world of changelings, that spine-chilling belief that the Fair Folk could swap your healthy baby with a sickly fairy imposter. Yep, you heard that right! In rural Ireland, where the shadow of ancient beliefs still looms large, the fear of these mischievous beings was no joke. We’ll chat about how this fear came to be, the bizarre ways families tried to protect their children, and how these tales had some seriously tragic consequences in a time when mental health wasn’t exactly understood. Plus, we’ll throw in a wild story about Br...

Ready to dive into some spine-tingling tales from the misty Isle of Skye? We’re chatting about the legend of the Biasd Bheulach, a mysterious beast that’s been haunting the pass for ages. Picture this: a shadowy figure lurking just out of sight, breathing down your neck, and whispering your name in a language you can’t quite grasp. Yeah, it's as creepy as it sounds! From shapeshifting hounds to eerie whispers in the air, this episode is all about those hair-raising encounters that still send shivers down the spines of hikers today. So, if you’re into folklore...

Get ready to dive into the world of the Morrigan, the ultimate Phantom Queen of Irish mythology, where war and prophecy strut hand in hand! I’m Jodie, and we’re about to unravel the enigma of this fierce goddess who’s not just about battle glory—she embodies the chaos and blood that linger on the battlefield. Picture this: the Morrigan isn’t just one figure; she’s a triad of power, shifting between a woman, a wolf, and a raven, showing up in all sorts of wild ways. We’ll chat about her haunting connection with Cu Chulain, the h...

Get ready to dive into the dark depths of Scottish folklore as we explore the spine-chilling tale of the Each-Uisge. This episode is all about that legendary water horse that’s been haunting the lochs of Raasay, luring unsuspecting souls to their doom. Picture this: a skilled blacksmith loses his daughter to this fearsome creature, and with a heart full of rage and a plan hotter than a blacksmith's forge, he’s out for revenge. We’ll unravel the story of loss, vengeance, and the lengths a father will go to protect his family, all while keeping it real with s...

Today, we’re getting our folklore fix by diving into the world of leprechauns—those little dudes with the tiny hammers and a knack for trickery. Forget the cheesy green suits and pots of gold; we’re uncovering the real deal, which goes way back over a thousand years and is packed with stories that are way more interesting than your average cereal mascot. So, if you’ve ever wondered what leprechauns are really up to when they’re not dancing at moonlit parties or granting wishes, you’re in for a treat. We’ll share a classic tale about a farmer...

Get ready to dive into the wild tale of Tam Lin, where a fearless gal named Janet takes a stroll through the haunted woods of Caterhaugh and bumps into a fairy knight. Seriously, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill fairy tale; it’s got twists, turns, and a hefty dose of bravery. So, picture this: Janet, ignoring all the spooky warnings, picks a rose and summons Tam Lin, who’s got a bit of a backstory – he’s trapped in the fairy realm and on the verge of becoming a sacrifice. But don’t worry, Janet’s not just a damsel in dist...

Get ready to dive into the heart-wrenching tale of Deirdre of the Sorrows, one of the most tragic love stories from Irish mythology. We’re talking beauty, prophecy, and enough heartbreak to make your heart do a somersault. Picture a girl born under a dark omen, raised in seclusion by King Conchobar Mac Nessa, just to be the center of a fierce tug-of-war between fate and love. Deirdre's heart gets stolen by the dashing warrior Naoise, and off they go on a whirlwind adventure that’s equal parts romantic and risky. But trust me, this story doesn’t wrap up in...

Grab your favorite snack and get comfy, because we’re diving into a wild tale straight from the heart of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This episode is all about Bertha de Bernard, the second Green Lady of Crathes Castle (otherwise known as the white lady of Crathes Castle), and trust me, her story is anything but a fairy tale. Picture this: a beautiful noblewoman caught in a whirlwind of love, jealousy, and betrayal — classic drama, right? But it takes a dark twist when her mother-in-law, Lady Agnes, isn’t having any of it and serves up a drink that changes everything. Now, B...

Today, we're diving into the spine-tingling legend of the Green Lady of Crathes Castle, a ghostly figure draped in mystery right outta North East Scotland. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill ghost story; we're talking about a spirit who’s been haunting the halls of a stunning 16th-century fortress, captivating everyone from castle staff to even Queen Victoria herself. She's often spotted in a flowing green gown, cradling a baby, and sometimes she shows up as a glowing orb—super eerie, right? But there's a twist to this tale: renovations in the 1800s revealed some shocking evidence that might just l...

Today, we’re diving headfirst into the spine-chilling world of Irish folklore with none other than the Dullahan, the headless rider who’s basically the life of the death party! Picture this: a dude riding a jet-black horse, carrying his own head under one arm like it's a casual grocery bag, and wielding a whip made from a human spine. Yup, you heard that right. This fella rolls up on festival nights and, spoiler alert, brings death along for the ride. We’ll spill the tea on some hair-raising tales, like how one unlucky chap heard the Dullahan’s chilling...

Get ready to dive into the wild and mystical world of the Brahan Seer, a cat from the Scottish Highlands who had the uncanny ability to see into the future. Picture this: a man born in the 17th century, Kenneth the Sallow, gifted with visions that could make your head spin—like predicting the Battle of Culloden and railways before they even existed. But here’s the kicker: having the sight ain’t all it’s cracked up to be. Kenneth paid the ultimate price for spilling the tea on Lady Seaforth's husband being in the arms of another woman—yi...

Let me tell you, today’s tale is a real heart-tugger mixed with a sprinkle of magic and a pinch of mischief. We’re diving into the enchanting legend of the Children of Lir, where four kids get transformed into swans thanks to some seriously shady family drama. I mean, who knew stepmoms could be so ruthless, right? Picture this: a king, a curse, and a whole lot of feathers as these kids navigate life as swans for 900 years. But hang tight, 'cause their story is all about love, loss, and the kind of jealousy that can twist a hear...

We're diving into the wild and windswept Shetland Islands today, and let me tell you, it's a trip filled with legends and a splash of spookiness. We’re hanging out with the Njuggle, a sneaky shape-shifting water spirit that rolls up looking like a stunning black horse, but trust me, it’s got a dark side. Instead of galloping after its victims, this crafty creature plays the long game, chilling by the water and waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. Imagine a game of cat and mouse, but with a horse that wants to drag you to a wate...

Today, we're diving headfirst into the wild, wicked world of the puca—an Irish folklore shape-shifting trickster that’s got more moves than a dance floor pro! This mischievous creature can flip from a fire-eyed horse to a giant rabbit faster than you can say “pub crawl.” We’re talking about a spirit that’s all about playing games, and trust me, those games are often at your expense. Ever heard of the midnight ride? Picture this: you stumble out of a pub, and boom, there’s a majestic black horse inviting you for a wild ride—only to drop you off in...

Get ready to dive into the wild world of Celtic folklore, where the line between history and myth is as blurry as a foggy Scottish morning! I’m Jodie Paterson, your trusty guide on this bite-sized adventure, and on this podcast we’re unearthing tales of shape-shifting selkies, wailing banshees, and all sorts of ghostly shenanigans that once echoed through the ancient glens and village halls. Each story is packed with enough mystery to keep you peeking over your shoulder, ‘cause who doesn’t love a little spine-tingling excitement? We’ll skip the fluff and stick to the good stuff, so...

We’re diving deep into the mystical Minch today, folks, where the ancient sea whispers secrets and legends of the elusive blue men. These aren’t your average sea critters; they’re trickster spirits known for challenging sailors with riddles that could mean the difference between life and a watery grave. Picture this: tall, blue-skinned dudes who pop up when the sea gets all feisty, ready to throw down in a battle of wits. From tales spun by fishermen to folklore legends, these blue men have a knack for both mischief and mystery. So, grab your life jacket and a clev...

Grab your cozy blankets and settle in, because we’re diving into the hauntingly beautiful world of the Banshee! This eerie lady isn’t just a wailer in the wind; she’s a spectral messenger, warning us of death before it even knocks on the door. Picture this: in the misty hills of Ireland, this mysterious figure, often seen as either a spine-chilling hag or a ghostly beauty, has been weaving sorrow through generations, especially for families with surnames like O’ and Mac. We’ll explore the rich folklore surrounding her, from her ancient ties to the Tuatha Dé Danann to t...

We’re diving headfirst into the mythical world of dragons today, folks! So buckle up, because we’re unpacking some fresh folklore from Dundee, Scotland, where these legendary beasts aren't just fairy tale fluff but actually etched into the city’s vibe. Picture this: a green dragon statue chilling in the Murray Gate while kids happily climb on its wings like it’s the coolest playground ever. But wait, there's a twist—this episode isn’t just about the statues; it’s about a gripping tale of a farmer, nine missing daughters, and a young hero named Martin who takes on a fir...

Today, we're diving into the wild world of the Cailleach, an ancient goddess who's like winter personified, and trust me, she's not just about frosty vibes. Picture this: before the first plough turned the earth, she was already striding across the landscape, wielding her blackthorn staff, summoning blizzards like a boss. We're sharing a gripping tale about Callum MacLeod, a fisherman who sails into a storm and vanishes, leaving his determined wife, Mairi, to wander the hills and strike a deal with the Cailleach herself. Spoiler alert: it involves a hefty price that makes you think twice about what...

We're diving into the world of the Green Man, that leafy legend who's been hanging around for centuries—literally! This episode is all about uncovering who this mysterious dude is, lurking in the shadows of our churches and folklore. You know that wild face carved into stone that seems to be watching you? Yep, that's him! We take a stroll through ancient forests and chat about how the Green Man isn't just about life and growth; he's got a whole vibe of cycles, decay, and rebirth going on. So, buckle up as we dig into tales of this nature sp...

Alright, folks, buckle up because we’re diving into the spine-tingling legend of the Cù-sìth, the fae hound of the Scottish Highlands! This isn’t your average pup; oh no, this beast is as mysterious as a foggy morning and twice as eerie. We’re chatting about a creature that’s got a bark that sends shivers down your spine and a presence that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up—think of it as the ghost dog of your nightmares. With tales that tell of its three barks—first a warning, then a threat, and...

Today, we're diving into the world of Scottish folklore, and the star of the show is none other than the brownie. No, not the kind you munch on – we’re talking about the little household spirits that sneak in while you snooze, tackling chores like pros without asking for a dime. These guys are all about helping out, but trust me, you don’t wanna cross them, or they might just pull a disappearing act on you. As we unravel this tale, we’ll share the heartwarming story of the Boghall Brownie – a true legend that teaches us about respect an...

The Bean Nighe, the washerwoman at the ford, embodies a haunting presence within Scottish folklore, representing both mortality and the profound grief associated with untimely death. We traverse the misty Highlands of Scotland to uncover the tragic narrative surrounding this spectral figure, whose task is to cleanse the bloodied garments of those fated to perish. The Bean Nighe, often depicted as a woman who has met her demise in childbirth, is bound to a perpetual cycle of penance, her sorrow echoing through the waters where she resides. As we delve into her various incarnations, from a fearsome hag to...

The Loch Ness Monster serves as a profound emblem intricately woven into the cultural tapestry of Scotland, transcending mere folklore to embody a national icon. As we delve into the depths of this enduring legend, we examine the myriad theories surrounding its existence, from the possibility of it being a prehistoric creature to the more plausible notion of misidentification of common wildlife. The narrative of Nessie has not only fueled a thriving tourism industry that generates millions annually, but it has also sparked a collective fascination, one that speaks to our intrinsic desire for mystery and the unexplained. Throughout...

This episode delves into the enchanting world of selkies, mystical beings from Scottish and Irish folklore, who possess the extraordinary ability to transform from seals into humans. I, as your host, Jodie, express a profound admiration for these creatures, highlighting their symbolic representation of duality and the perennial struggle between freedom and belonging in human existence. The selkie narrative often encapsulates themes of captivity and longing, reflecting the poignant reality that love can exist in a state of constraint, yet true freedom remains an elusive pursuit. Furthermore, we explore the broader implications of selkie stories, revealing how they resonate...

The episode delves into the profound significance of the unicorn as Scotland's national animal, a symbol imbued with layers of meaning that extend beyond mere fantasy. We explore how this mythical creature, once regarded as a representation of purity and untamed spirit, became intertwined with the Scottish identity, particularly during tumultuous historical periods marked by conflict and resistance. The unicorn's presence in heraldry, most notably within the royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom, serves as a complex emblem of Scotland's struggle for autonomy, contrasting the chained unicorn with the free lion of England. As we navigate the...