Season 2

Tales For Life episodes are released every week on Mondays.

Click an episode below to listen!

Season 2, Episode 39 – The Shape of Persistence

In this episode, featuring a gentle tale from Africa, we meet Unjabu, a man whose greatness wasn’t loud—it was shaped slowly, quietly, through clay and time. When a visiting nephew asks how he became so successful, Unjabu tells a story of early failure, quiet passion, and unwavering dedication to the craft that called to him.

This episode is for anyone wondering whether it’s worth it to keep going when the early efforts fall flat. It’s a reminder that mastery isn’t born—it’s shaped, one touch at a time.

Season 2, Episode 38 – Pick One or Be None

In this episode of Tales For Life, we follow a squirrel’s scramble through choice, consequence, and cold—a parable of indecision nestled in golden leaves. As Tibbins dithers between three hiding places, his scattered efforts come up short, reminding us that exploring options is important—but choosing and committing is what carries us through. A gentle tale for anyone whose focus feels a bit too spread, and whose winter is fast approaching.

Season 2, Episode 37 – Light a Fire Behind You

In this week’s episode of Tales For Life, we explore the power of commitment through a hauntingly beautiful Middle Eastern folktale, The Girl Who Sealed the Door. When Layla volunteers to face the spirits of the cursed palace, she brings not charms or prayers—but a hammer and nails. Her choice to block the way back becomes a metaphor for the kind of resolve that transforms fear into courage. Through vivid storytelling and gentle reflection, this episode invites listeners to consider what might happen if we stopped planning for escape and started trusting our ability to endure. Sometimes, the only way forward is through—and the only way through is to seal the door behind you.

Season 2, Episode 36 – Success or Excuses, Not Both

In this episode, we explore the quiet power of persistence through the African folktale The Flame of Mamba Muntu. When King Zuberi tasks his three sons with trials to determine who will inherit the crown, each responds differently. Jabari charges ahead, Kwame calculates, and Tendo listens, learns, and returns when others stop.

This isn’t a story about triumph in the usual sense—it’s about the space between effort and excuse, and what happens when we choose to stay in that space a little longer. Whether you’re chasing a goal, leading a team, or simply trying to grow, this tale offers a gentle but firm reminder: success and excuses don’t live in the same place.

Season 2, Episode 35 – I Will Persist…Without Exception

In this episode of Tales For Life, we journey to Valle Sol for the story of Marisol, a young woman whose quiet persistence transforms not only her fate but the lives of those she loves. Inspired by Andy Andrews’ “I Will Persist…Without Exception,” this tale speaks to anyone who’s wrestled with slow progress, early failure, or the quiet doubt that shadows uncertain paths. Through Marisol’s thread-by-thread determination, we’re reminded that true success is rarely sudden—it’s woven through patience, effort, and the decision to keep going. Whether you’re searching for your calling or struggling to stay the course, this episode offers gentle encouragement and timeless wisdom wrapped in a story that lingers like twilight on the valley wind.

Season 2, Episode 34 – Shape Your World, Don’t Let It Shape You

This week on Tales For Life, we revisit The Emperor’s New Clothes—not as a childhood fable, but a sharp reflection on how easily we trade clarity for comfort. When pressure to fit in creeps in, we may start biting back questions or doubting what we see. This story reminds us that sometimes the clearest voice is the one brave enough to say, “Something feels off.” Because shaping your world starts with trusting your own.

Season 2, Episode 33 – How You Look Today Is How You Were Yesterday

In this episode of Tales For Life, we explore how the choices we make linger—and how yesterday’s actions quietly shape how we’re seen today. Through a rich retelling of Beauty and the Beast, titled Thorns and Velvet, we’re reminded that appearances don’t just reflect what’s outside—they carry echoes of our character and choices. When a weary merchant plucks a rose and sets his daughter on a path toward a mysterious castle, we witness not just enchantment but transformation through empathy, presence, and restraint. As the Beast softens and reveals more of who he truly is, the way he’s perceived begins to shift—not by magic, but through small, thoughtful acts. This gentle tale invites us to reflect on how our own habits and interactions build the lens through which others experience us. Tune in for a story that’s familiar yet fresh, and maybe a new way of looking at your own reflections.

Season 2, Episode 32 – Work Hard Today to Prosper Tomorrow

In today’s world, it often seems like speed is all that matters. Make things happen now. Get things done yesterday. But that’s not the way that life works. It’s the slow, steady work over time that leads to the beautiful tomorrow. Come along on this episode featuring a Slavic tale that illustrates vividly that perseverance and endurance are the key to happily ever after.

Season 2, Episode 31 – Success Lies in Taking Action, Not Waiting to Be Acted Upon

Success is often portrayed as a maze of strategies and philosophies, but at its core lies a single truth—progress begins with action. In this episode, we cut through the noise to explore why movement, not just mindset, is the defining factor in reaching your goals. And to bring the message home, we look to a Norwegian fairy tale where actions—rather than intentions—make all the difference.

Season 2, Episode 30 – Life Isn’t Fair, But Push Through Anyway

It would be great for all of us if life were fair, but it isn’t. Crying and screaming won’t help. What will? Well, that answer lies in an old Russian folktale that’s part of this week’s episode. Want to know what a wooden doll, a wicked stepmother, and the Russian witch Baba Yaga have to do with you? Listen and find out!

Season 2, Episode 29 – True Success is Continued Success

Success doesn’t have to be huge, and it doesn’t have to be all at once. In fact, it will never be all at once. And those little successes? Well, those are the steps we have to take to get to the end goal, which really isn’t a giant success at all, but a series of little successes on the way. With the help of a couple of fables — one African and one from Aesop — this episode takes a look at what true success really is…and what it takes to keep it going.

Season 2, Episode 28 – Envy Eats You Too

Have you ever been bothered by the fact that someone has more than you do? Yeah, me too. But we shouldn’t be. Even if that person gained some or all of what they have from our efforts, giving in to envy is a self-destructive path to go down. With the help of an old tale from India, this episode takes a look at why envy eats those who have it.

Season 2, Episode 27 – Your Talent, Use It or Lose It

Each one of us has been given some form of talent—but the real question is, are we putting it to use? It doesn’t matter if it feels small or insignificant, or even if you think you’ve got less than others. What matters is that you use what you’ve been given. Not later. Not when it feels perfect. Now. In fact, not only is it important—you’re called to.

In this episode, we turn to one of the oldest and most powerful stories we’ve ever shared: The Parable of the Talents. This ancient teaching is a clear reminder that our gifts—whatever they may be—aren’t meant to sit idle. When we use them, something amazing happens: they grow. They multiply. We become entrusted with even more. But when we hide them away, when we let fear, comparison, or doubt convince us not to act—those very gifts begin to fade.

Season 2, Episode 26 – It’s Not About Talent; It’s About Dedication

What can an old German fairy tale teach us about reaching our goals? Turns out—quite a bit. In this episode, we dive into The Poor Miller’s Boy and the Cat, a charming yet profound story about perseverance, trust, and unexpected rewards. It follows a young apprentice who sets off on a journey, not armed with wealth or talent, but with patience, kindness, and a willingness to stick with the process. His story is a great reminder that success isn’t about having special skills—it’s about staying committed, showing up, and believing in the path ahead. So, if you’ve ever doubted whether you have “what it takes” to achieve your goals, this one’s for you.

Season 2, Episode 25 – Trying to Please Everyone Makes Everyone Unhappy – Including You

If you’ve ever stressed about making everyone around you happy, this episode is for you! Trying to Please Everyone Makes Everyone Unhappy – Including You takes a look at why chasing approval never really works—and how it can leave you feeling worse instead of better. With a lighthearted story featuring Nasreddin Hodja, we’ll explore why it’s so tough to please everyone and what to do instead.

Season 2, Episode 24 – Always Be Learning

Learning isn’t just something we do in school—it’s a lifelong adventure. But sometimes, as adults, we forget that the learning never really stops. Whether it’s moving handling our finances, navigating relationships, or leveling up in our careers, staying curious is key to moving forward. In this episode, we dive into a classic English tale that shows us why embracing learning makes all the difference.

Season 2, Episode 23 – We Might as Well Dance

In life, the only people who never look silly dancing are the ones who don’t dance…and they look even worse for not dancing. The same goes for life. You’re not always going to hit the bullseye or succeed every time you try something, but that’s okay, because if you never try, you’ll never succeed. So enjoy the journey. This fun tale from Japan reminds us to do just that. So tune in and come along for the dance!

Season 2, Episode 22 – Being Clever is Good, But Being Wise is Better

Have you ever thought you couldn’t move forward in life because you didn’t have a fancy degree, enough degrees, or were educated in the right place? Does it feel sometimes like that person with all the answers will get the best of you every time? Guess what? Neither one matters! Come along with us for a tale from old India with a message for ancient and modern times alike that reminds us a head full of wisdom beats a head full of clever tricks every time!

Season 2, Episode 21 – We All Have a Place in Life and a Calling

In this entertaining episode, we delve into the timeless tale “The Husband Who Was to Mind the House,” a humorous and wise story from Norway that shines a light on the importance of finding and embracing our true calling in life. Discover how this charming story illustrates that everyone has a unique role and place in the world, and how fully committing to our purpose can bring fulfillment to our lives while positively impacting those around us. It’s a reminder to celebrate who we are, take pride in our abilities, and approach our calling with passion and dedication. Tune in and explore how embracing your role can make the world a brighter, better place!

Season 2, Episode 20 – Do Unto Others…As Will Be Done Unto You

We’ve all heard of The Golden Rule, but we live our lives as if we don’t really believe it. We do so at our own peril. Because it’s not that what we do may come back to haunt us, it will. This episode’s big dose of folk-sense comes to us with the help of a short tale from the Philippines.

Season 2, Episode 19 – Achievement Isn’t Just Speed, It’s Not Getting Stopped Along the Way

While reaching our goals can be as much about “slow and steady” as it is about moving in leaps and bounds, the real key to getting from where you are to where you want to be is to just…not…stop. Tune in to this episode for two quick stories, one from Greece and one from Norway, that remind us the only way to get from Point A to Point B…is to keep moving to Point B until you get there!

Season 2, Episode 18 – The Power of Kind Words

Words have power. Unkind words can cause pain and hurt, not just for the person receiving them, but the person saying them also is affected. But the best things in the world that have ever happened were the result of kind words. Come along with me for an English tale showcasing the power of kind words.

Season 2, Episode 17 – Your Road to Success Might Lie in Doing Something Different

We all want to succeed, but the path for others might not be the path for us. Sometimes, many times, the road to success lies in doing something different…or at least different for us. Come along on this episode as an old German folktale provides us a whimsical story filled with the folk-sense of taking a new road.

Season 2, Episode 16 – Be Bigger Than Your Issues to Conquer Them

“The Master Thief,” a folktale from Germany, isn’t just a story of a thief outwitting his godfather; it’s a lesson for all of us that teaches us obstacles and challenges can’t stop us if we see ourselves as bigger than they are and act accordingly.

Season 2, Episode 15 – Show Me How You Act in a Little Thing, And I’ll Tell You How You Act in All Things

Little habits shape who we are in big ways. In fact, these little habits are big windows into how we, or anyone else, will act. By paying attention to the small things, we get a glimpse of the bigger picture. Come along with me as we take a look at two short stories that help illustrate how observing a little thing tells us how someone will act in all things.

Season 2, Episode 14 – To Get Different Results, Do Something Different

Are you stuck? Do you want more than what you have? Guess what? You’ll never get un-stuck or get something more or different doing what you’ve been doing. Come along with me in this episode as we enjoy a Scottish tale that examines the time-honored wisdom required for getting different results – doing something different!

Season 2, Episode 13 – You Can’t Achieve Complete Success with Only Partial Commitment

Any significant or meaningful goal we have in life, whether it be at work or at home, is going to come with obstacles and challenges. Whether or not your goal is a “SMART” (specific – measurable – achievable – relevant – time-bound) one is not going to help you achieve it if you lack commitment. Come along on today’s episode as we use a Philippine folktale to remind us that happiness and achievement only come with complete commitment.

Season 2, Episode 12 – A Little Aesop Goes a Long Way

Perhaps the most famous teller of tales with meaning, Greek storyteller Aesop is known the world over for his fables. In this episode, we listen to a few of them, timeless as ever, and complete with their morals.

Season 2, Episode 11 – Beware the Leprechaun

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we’re taking a wee bit of a break from our usual theme to pay tribute to the Emerald Isle and some of its lore. This episode features a fun story, complete with beer, gold, and a crafty leprechaun!

Season 2, Episode 10 – Right Place, Right Time, Wrong Person

In this episode, we delve into the roles of luck and readiness in achieving success, inspired by an Armenian tale titled The Idiot. We’ll discuss how being in the right place at the right time isn’t enough—you must also be prepared to seize the moment and turn chance encounters into life-changing events. Join us as we explore the interplay of fate, fortune, and making the most of opportunities.

Season 2, Episode 9 – It Is Your Beliefs That Hold You Back…or Move You Forward

Many times, success in life — no matter how you define it — is not a matter of money, good looks, or even your effort. It’s often a matter of something you have inside of you — your belief. It is your belief in whether you can and will succeed, or you cannot or won’t, that can make all the difference. With the help of a splendid folktale from German, grab a piece of age-old wisdom that reminds us that moving forward in life is an inside job.

Season 2, Episode 8 – Struggle with a Purpose and You Will Succeed

Too often we set goals but either don’t have a purpose to achieving them or lose track of that purpose. This episode of the Tales For Life podcast reminds us, through a fun Scottish tale, that holding tight to your purpose makes achieving your goals inevitable!

Season 2, Episode 7 – What You Have is Usually Enough

One of the greatest sources of discontent is not our lack of something but our lack of appreciating what we have. Wanting something else or something more can lead us down the road to unhappiness. While we may not be living in paradise, it’s a sure bet that yearning for things we don’t need will never get us there. With the help of an 18th century French folktale, we’re cautioned about this line of thinking.

Season 2, Episode 6 – True Love Sees Beyond the Obvious

Get ready to dive into an enchanting tale from ancient Japan that shows how true love is a superpower, granting us the extraordinary ability to see beyond the obvious. Discover how love can shatter visual barriers and reveal hidden beauty in ways you never imagined. Tune in and let this magical story remind you of the incredible power of love!

Season 2, Episode 5 – Don’t Let Little Things Become Big Things

Big things can often stop us, but when we see them as little things, or address them as little things before they become big things, we cannot be stopped. Venture back to old Japan for a fun story that teaches us the dangers of letting things pile up.

Season 2, Episode 4 – The Power of Doing Things Yourself

No one cares about your goals or cares like you do. With the help of a fable from Aesop, this episode shows that not only will others not do your work for you, people are watching what you do and taking note. Will you let things go undone, or will you prove that you really want something done? Get inspired with this short tale!

Season 2, Episode 3 – Your Best Asset is a Positive Attitude

Life is filled with ups and downs, challenges and opportunities. While we can’t control much of what happens to us, we don’t need to. The best asset we have, and it’s one we have complete control over, is our attitude. This brief tale from India reminds us all of that simple truth.

Season 2, Episode 2 – Learning Can Take You Anywhere

Do you ever feel like what you’re learning today is worthless? Guess what? It’s not! In fact, anything worth learning is worth learning well, because you never know where it will take you. Come along on the enjoyable adventure of a 19th century Italian folktale that reflects on the value of learning!

Season 2, Episode 1 – What’s Stopping You

The beginning of the new year is a great time to set goals, but setting goals doesn’t always equate to reaching them. Is there something stopping you from going after and reaching your goals? This fun story from Norway illustrates how even small steps, combined with perseverance, can propel us toward success!