Young Tales

"Young Tales," narrated by Todd Young, presents a captivating episode featuring the timeless tale of "Rhoecus and the Hamadryad" from Bullfinch's Mythology. This enchanting story unfolds in a mystical forest where Rhoecus, a young man, saves a majestic oak tree and unexpectedly wins the gratitude of its tree-bound spirit, Ahamadrya. Her gratefulness knows no bounds, offering Rhoecus a gift for preserving her life.
However, Rhoecus' bold request for the Hamadryad's love becomes a pivotal moment as their story intertwines with themes of love, loyalty, and consequence. A simple bee becomes a herald, signaling Rhoecus in moments of divine significance. Yet, distracted pride and youthful neglect lead to a tragic misstep, shattering the divine favor once bestowed upon him.
This narrative explores the profound lessons of responsibility and respect through enchanting storytelling, warning that even the smallest actions can carry immense weight. Join us for an experience that blends mythology, morality, and enchantment.

In this captivating episode of Young Tales, we delve into the ancient story of Erisichthon, a proud king who dared to defy the gods. Known for his irreverence towards the divine, Erisichthon scorned sacred traditions and paid the ultimate price. Discover how his encounter with Demeter, the goddess of the harvest, led to a punishment that brought him unimaginable suffering.Embark on a journey through myth and legend as we explore the consequences of Erisichthon's desecration of a sacred grove and how the relentless hunger inflicted by the goddess of famine unraveled his life. Witness the profound message of respecting nature and the divine that this timeless story imparts.

"Young Tales" presents the captivating story of Pan, the god of wild nature, as we explore his influence across myth and culture. Revered as both a delightful and frightening figure, Pan's presence was felt in the remotest groves, where his inventive music and joyous dance enchanted nature itself. Yet, his name also gave rise to "Panic," the inexplicable fear in woodland darkness.From his rustic origins, Pan's image expanded, embodying nature's essence and becoming a symbol of the universe. The Romans revered similar deities, assigning totemic roles to gods like Silvanus and Faunus. Through the presence of nymphs, beloved spirits of nature, we witness a world where every stream and tree breathes with divine life.Join narrator Todd Young, as "Young Tales" evokes ancient reverence for a world alive with gods, inviting listeners into a time where nature's mystery and beauty were intertwined with myth. Our story concludes yet invites reflection on the tangible world where myths once dwelt.

Join us for a captivating retelling of The Story of Ariadne from Bullfinch's Mythology. Discover how Ariadne, the princess of Crete, aids Theseus, only to be abandoned by him on the Isle of Naxos. Heartbroken and alone, her plight draws the attention of the gods, particularly Aphrodite and Dionysus. Witness how Ariadne transforms from despair to divine union, culminating in her immortal legacy in the night sky.

Explore the enthralling tale of Dionysus, the god of wine and frenzy, in this captivating episode. Born from the union of Zeus and a mortal, and rescued amid divine splendor, Dionysus' journey is marked by wrath, madness, and spiritual revelation. Discover how his mysterious rites challenged the social order and offered liberation to the marginalized. Join us for a foray into ancient mythology where boundaries blur between divine ecstasy and human folly.

Join Todd Young as he narrates the legendary story of Castor and Pollux, twin brothers born from the union of Queen Leta with Zeus. Their adventures showcase their remarkable bravery and unbreakable bond, as they navigate mortal and divine challenges. From rescuing their sister Helen to joining Jason and the Argonauts, their tale is one of heroism and sacrifice. Discover how their brotherly love led Pollux to plead with Zeus for a shared immortality, resulting in their eternal presence in the night sky as the constellation Gemini. This episode of Young Tales captures the essence of their mythological journey and their enduring legacy as protectors of sailors and warriors alike.

Dive into the captivating tale of Daedalus, a legendary craftsman and inventor whose brilliance in engineering led to incredible creations and tragic downfalls. Witness the famous escape from the labyrinth he built to imprison the Minotaur and his daring attempt to fly to freedom with his son, Icarus. As Daedalus navigates the skies, experience the heart-wrenching consequences of hubris and disobedience.
Explore the darker twists of his story as jealousy poisons his heart, leading to betrayal against his talented nephew, Perdix. Throughout the tale, wisdom and consequences intermingle, offering timeless lessons on the limits of human ambition and the cost of envy and brilliance.

In this captivating episode of Young Tales, embark on the legendary journey of Theseus, son of Aegeus, king of Athens. Discover how Theseus proved his worth by lifting a massive rock to claim his heritage, choosing a perilous overland path to Athens, facing deadly foes like the Clubman, Sinus the Pine Bender, and the monstrous Crommyonian Sow.
Witness his cunning and bravery in defeating the Minotaur with the help of Ariadne in Crete and marvel at his leadership in the Battle with the Amazons. Follow Theseus on his daring friendship with Pirithous, their escapades, and their audacious descent into the underworld.
Explore the complex tale of betrayal, loss, and redemption as Theseus battles internal and external demons, influencing Athenian democracy while grappling with his hubris and ultimate exile. Join Todd Young as he narrates the epic adventures of Theseus, a hero who combined courage with cleverness.

The episode dives into the enthralling epic of Hercules, the greatest hero in Greek mythology. Born to Zeus and Alcmena, Hercules' life is marked by the wrath of Hera, who devises relentless challenges against him. Despite these adversities, Hercules' prodigious strength and divine guidance enable him to conquer the famous Twelve Labors, from slaying the Nemean lion to capturing Cerberus from the underworld.
Throughout the thrilling narrative, listeners witness Hercules' unrivaled bravery and resilience in the face of divine and earthly trials. His journey is one of unyielding courage where he masters not only monstrous beasts but also complex battles of wit against deceitful adversaries like the giant Caucus.
The saga closes with Hercules' ascension to immortality, revealing the eternal glory and divine acceptance of a hero whose legacy endures in the constellations and occupies a cherished place among the gods on Mount Olympus.
Produced by Todd Young and toddYoungONLINE.

In this captivating episode, we delve into the timeless myth of Atalanta, a maiden famed for her unmatched beauty and extraordinary swiftness. Born with a prophecy warning against marriage, Atalanta dedicates her life to the hunt, only to find herself pursued by eager suitors. Her challenge? She vows to marry only the man who can outrun her, while those who fail pay with their lives.
Join us as we follow the tale of Hippomenes, a bold young suitor whose love for Atalanta leads him to seek the help of Venus, the goddess of love. Witness the dramatic race where golden apples and divine intervention play a crucial role, culminating in a bittersweet ending where love, fate, and divine wrath intertwine.