Young Tales

#128 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Echo and Narcissus

In this captivating episode of Young Tales, Todd Young from toddYoungONLINE narrates the timeless story of Echo and Narcissus from Bullfinch's Mythology, Stories of Gods and Heroes. Echo, a nymph of striking beauty but cursed with the inability to speak first, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful but vain Narcissus. Cast aside and heartbroken, Echo retreats into solitude, where she fades away, leaving only her voice.
Narcissus, absorbed by his own reflection, ultimately meets a tragic end by the fountain where he falls in love with his own image. Despite Echo's silent presence, Narcissus's self-obsession leads him to an unfulfilled destiny, culminating in his transformation into the delicate flower that bears his name. This poignant tale weaves themes of unrequited love, vanity, and the consequences of self-absorption, leaving listeners with much to ponder.

#129 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Clytie

In this captivating episode of Young Tales, we delve into the heart-wrenching story of Clytie, a water nymph hopelessly in love with the god Apollo. Despite her unreciprocated affections, Clytie's devotion knows no bounds, leading to a poignant transformation.
Discover how her unwavering love and sorrow alter her very being, rooting her to the earth and transforming her into a sunflower, eternally following the sun just as she did in life. Join us for this moving mythological narrative produced and narrated by Todd Young.

#127 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Nisus and Scylla

In this episode of Young Tales, we explore the captivating myth of Scylla, daughter of Nysus, who faces a heart-wrenching dilemma as her city, Megara, stands against the might of King Minos of Crete. Torn between her love for Minos and loyalty to her father, Scylla makes a fateful decision that alters her destiny and the fate of her homeland.Witness a tale of forbidden love, betrayal, and divine transformation as Scylla's choice leads to unforeseen consequences and eternal punishment. Join us as we delve into this timeless story of gods and heroes, where emotions collide with fate.

#126 - Bullfinch's Mythology: The Myrmidons

toddYoungONLINE presents an enchanting episode of Young Tales, bringing to life the classic story from Bullfinch's Mythology: The Myrmidons. Dive into the gripping tale of Aeacus, king of Aegina, and the origin of his formidable army, born from a desperate plea to the gods amidst a devastating plague sent by Juno.
Journey through a land ravaged by a deadly sickness, where animals and humans alike perish under an ominous sky. Witness the incredible transformation of ants into industrious warriors, embodying persistence and strength. Discover the power of resilience as Aeacus's prayers are answered, granting him a new, unwavering people from the symbolism of a sacred oak.
Join us as we explore themes of faith, transformation, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity, reminding us that true courage and determination can spring from the most unexpected places. Immerse yourself in the mythical narrative and uncover the untold story of these legendary followers of Achilles.

#125 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Cadmus

In this captivating episode of Young Tales, Todd Young narrates the legendary story of Cadmus from Bullfinch's Mythology. Follow Cadmus on his adventurous quest to find his lost sister, Europa, which leads him to an oracle that sets him on a path to destiny.Witness the thrilling encounter between Cadmus and a fearsome serpent guarding a sacred grove. Experience the tension as Cadmus battles the beast, ultimately using the serpent's teeth to conjure an army of warriors.Join Cadmus as he founds the city of Thebes and navigates a life filled with triumph and tragedy, alongside his wife, Harmonia. Discover how Cadmus' actions cast a long shadow over his descendants, leading to a poignant transformation.Tune in to explore these ancient legends, expertly brought to life by Todd Young in this unforgettable narrative journey.

#124 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Cupid and Psyche

In a mystical land of radiant beauty, the maiden Psyche finds herself at the center of a divine intrigue. Her unparalleled beauty draws admiration, yet true love seems beyond her grasp until an unseen figure offers her a chance for a deeper connection. Guided by whispered promises and unseen companionship, Psyche embarks on a nightly rendezvous with the mysterious stranger, each meeting unraveling the threads of curiosity and trust.
Despite warnings and doubts sown by her sisters, Psyche's heart yearns to uncover the face of her mysterious beloved. As fate unravels, curiosity leads her to discover his true identity, Cupid, the god of love. However, this revelation shatters their bond, casting Psyche into a search for redemption and love lost.
Psyche's journey takes her through daunting trials set by the gods themselves. From gathering golden fleece to venturing into the depths of the underworld, her determination and aid from kind spirits light the path to her beloved. Though her curiosity leads to peril once more, love triumphs in the end as Cupid rescues her from eternal slumber and their union is blessed by Jupiter.
Join Todd Young as he narrates this timeless myth, a resonance of love's endurance and redemption, not only in the light but also through shadows that bind hearts.

#123 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Pomona and Vertumnus

"Young Tales," hosted by Todd Young, brings you a captivating story from Bullfinch's Mythology: the tale of Pomona and Vertumnus. Nestled in the serenity of the countryside, Pomona, a nymph with a profound love for her orchard, shuns the affections of suitors, including the persistent Vertumnus. Disguised in various forms, he finds ways to be near her, hoping to win her heart.When an old woman visits her orchard and recounts a cautionary tale of a love scorned, Pomona begins to reconsider her stance on love. It is only when Vertumnus reveals his true identity that Pomona's heart finally opens, and together, they witness their orchard flourish as a testament to love and patience.

#122 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Ceyx and Halcyone

In the peaceful kingdom of Thessaly, King Ceyx, beloved by his people, embarks on a perilous journey to consult the oracle of Apollo. Despite warnings from his wife, Halcyon, daughter of the god of winds, tragedy strikes as Ceyx is lost to the sea.
Haunted by her husband’s absence and guided by a dream from the gods, Halcyone’s grief leads her to the shore, where an extraordinary transformation occurs as she and Ceyx become birds.
This myth tells of love's enduring power and the mystical events leading to the creation of the Halcyon days, a time of peace and calm on the seas.

#121 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Apollo and Hyacinthus

In this episode of Young Tales, we journey through the poignant story from Bullfinch's Mythology, "The Story of Apollo and Hyacinthus". The tale explores an extraordinary bond between Apollo, the god of the sun, and a mortal youth named Hyacinthus. Their friendship, marked by love and devotion, takes a tragic turn during a seemingly innocent game.Apollo's divine nature is tested as a cruel twist of fate claims Hyacinthus's life, leaving the god heartbroken and helpless. This myth not only narrates the origins of the hyacinth flower but also delves into themes of love, loss, and the lasting impact of cherished memories.Todd Young brings this ancient narrative to life, inviting listeners young and old to reflect on the enduring power of myth and the beauty of eternal love. Tune in for a story that resonates beyond the realms of gods and mortals.

#120 - Bullfinch's Mythology: Venus and Adonis

In this engaging episode of Young Tales, journey into the mythical world of gods and mortals with the story of Venus and Adonis. Todd Young narrates the poignant tale of passion, beauty, and the enduring power of love. Discover how Venus, the goddess of love, becomes enchanted by the handsome Adonis, abandoning her divine realms and hunting alongside him, despite her warnings about the wild hunts. Experience the tragedy that unfolds as Adonis falls in the daring hunt, leading to the creation of the anemone flower, symbolizing the beauty and transience of life. Join us for a story where love blooms eternal, transcending even the boundaries of life and death.