Storybounders

Against that sweeping backdrop of the New World emerges one of America's most beloved storytellers, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who, on the eve of the Civil War, looked back to the humble settlement at Plymouth in search of the virtues that could heal a divided nation. In this episode, we explore the remarkable story behind The Courtship of Miles Standish before experiencing Longfellow's unforgett...

Season 2: The Stories That Built America In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Christopher Columbus—a determined visionary who dared to sail on a journey most believed would lead to death and disaster. Rejected, mocked, and surrounded by doubt and fear, Columbus clung to the conviction that he knew where to point the boat. But this story is about far more than discovery. It’sabout...

2026 Season: Stories That Built America In this episode, we witness a medieval kingdom unraveling under the rule of a desperate and distrustful King John, whose cruelty and abuse of power push his people to the breaking point. A band of barons rises—not in revolution, but to reclaim an ancient truth: that even a king must answer to the law. Their clash leads them to the quiet meadows of Runnymede,...

In this special Halloween episode, we explore the life and legacy of America’s master of the gothic story, Edgar Allan Poe. From a troubled childhood to a literary career haunted by tragedy, Poe’s story is as compelling as the tales he wrote. We attempt to uncover the true story behind his life and examine the psychological genius of his work. Guest narrator, David Knight, delivers a chilling perf...

Loneliness is something many people quietly carry. Jayme and Steve take a closer look at what loneliness really means—not just being alone, but feeling unseen, unheard, or disconnected even in the middle of a crowd, and then they turn to an unexpected but deeply meaningful connection: the stories of author Gene Stratton-Porter. As the youngest of twelve on a bustling farm family, Gene grew up with...

What do Benjamin Franklin, Eleanor Roosevelt, Paul Revere, and John-Boy Walton all share in common? They grew up in big families—and their stories suggest that large households can shape remarkable leaders and change the course of history. In this episode, we reflect on history, literature, and lived experience to ask whether strong, bustling families offer something our society is missing today....

This episode features the swashbuckling hero of Baroness Orczy’s thrilling tale set against the violent chaos of the French Revolution, The Scarlet Pimpernel . Listen to the opening chapter of the novel and a discussion about what makes the Scarlet Pimpernel such an enduring hero—from his daring disguises and secret missions to his deep compassion and self-restraint. This episode invites listeners...

After months of planning and hosting their immersive Celebrating Little Women event, Jayme and Steve return with a deeply personal look at the life and legacy of Louisa May Alcott. From her childhood in a famously dysfunctional household to her reluctant creation of Little Women , this episode uncovers the remarkable journey of an author who turned hardship into timeless storytelling. Along the wa...

What kept George Washington’s soldiers fighting through freezing winters, crushing defeats, and overwhelming odds? Stories. In inspiring episode, Jayme and Steve explore how Washington used inspiring stories to rally his troops, unite a divided nation, and shape the destiny of America. Whether you’re a history lover or just fascinated by the power of words, this episode will remind you why the sto...

From a humble clay cottage to emerging as a celebrated cultural icon, Burns’s story is filled with passion, poetry, and the preservation of Scottish culture. Jayme and Steve tell the story of Burns's childhood, shaped by ancient oral tradition and the rhythms of rural life, inspiring some of his most famous works. Whether you’re a fan of poetry, history, or simply love a good tale, this episod...

Travel to a snowy 19th-century farmhouse, while American poet John Greenleaf Whittier reflects on the beauty and warmth of family bonds during a fierce winter storm. Whittier’s poignant depiction of New England life and his thoughtful commentary on memory and loss provide a vivid backdrop for timeless lessons on love and relationships. Listen as guest reader David Knight brings Whittier’s masterpi...

Joseph Moore and Franz Gruber could never have imagined how their simple Christmas carol, "Silent Night," would resonate across the globe and through time. In this episode we reflect on the humble origins of this beloved carol and its profound impact during one of history's darkest moments. From a small Austrian village in 1818 to the trenches of World War I, "Silent Night"...

This episode explores the origins of this iconic movie, its journey from box-office disappointment to cherished tradition, and the poignant themes of love, sacrifice, and connection that resonate with audiences to this day. Listeners will gain fresh perspectives on the cultural significance and enduring legacy of It's a Wonderful Life , along with insights into how it reflects our own relation...

In this episode we unwrap the magic behind the iconic sounds of Christmas that have shaped generations. From Bing Crosby’s timeless “White Christmas” to the playful charm of “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson, we recount the rich histories and emotional stories that transformed these songs into holiday staples. Listeners will discover the personal sacrifices, historical contexts, and enduring appeal...

In this Thanksgiving special, Jayme and Steve share a poignant story that connects the origins of Thanksgiving to a pivotal moment in American history. Through the lens of Matilda "Tilly" Pierce Alleman's vivid memoir, we experience the harrowing days of the Battle of Gettysburg. Tilly’s courage as a 15-year-old navigating war-torn Pennsylvania highlights themes of unity, healing, an...

In 1621, amidst the rugged beauty and harsh realities of the New England wilderness, two very different peoples—the Plymouth Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe—gathered to share a harvest celebration. This moment of unity and gratitude set a precedent for a tradition that continues to inspire us today. In this episode, we revisit the epic journey of the Pilgrims and their first year in the New World...

Amidst the turmoil of religious persecution in 17th-century England, a small group of believers yearned for freedom—to worship God in their own way and preserve their cultural identity. These Separatists, later known as the Pilgrims, embarked on an extraordinary journey that took them from the quiet villages of England to bustling Holland, and ultimately across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World....

The story of Pocahontas and John Smith is one of courage, diplomacy, and enduring impact on the history of the United States. As the Powhatan Confederacy and the Jamestown settlers navigated the challenges of coexistence, Pocahontas and Smith became central figures in establishing a fragile peace. While not a love story as often romanticized, their lives were intertwined with pivotal moments of co...

You may have heard of Robert Louis Stevenson's famous story "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde", but have you experienced the original tale in Stevenson's own words? We present an excerpt from the novella and discuss its profound insights into human nature, morality, and the struggle between light and darkness within us all. This timeless classic continues to resonate w...

In this special episode of Story Bounders , we present Washington Irving’s timeless tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , narrated in Irving’s original language. Voice actor Joe Konzak lends his talent to bring this American gothic classic to life. We explore the fascinating life of Washington Irving, his connection to early American history, and the cultural impact of his work. Discover how this st...

In this episode of Story Bounders, Jayme and Steve explore the power of immersive storytelling and its ability to transform how we connect with stories and each other. From the bustling energy of themed events like Comic-Con and Renaissance fairs to the quiet magic of thoughtfully curated bookshelves, Jayme and Steve discuss the meaningful ways people choose to experience their favorite tales. Whe...

Experience the remarkable story behind the creation of the United States Constitution. As we approach Constitution Day, we explore the challenges faced by James Madison and the Founding Fathers in crafting this foundational document. Discover how Madison's vision, alongside the debates and compromises of the Constitutional Convention, shaped a government structure that continues to guide the U...

In this enchanting episode of Storybounders , Jayme and Steve explore the magical world of fairy tales with special guest Sabrina Mitchell. Together, they discuss the timeless power of these stories and their profound impact on childhood development. From nurturing empathy to building problem-solving skills, fairy tales prove to be more than just whimsical tales—they are essential tools for shapin...

Step into the enchanting world of fairy tales as Jayme and Steve explore the fascinating history and enduring legacy of the Brothers Grimm. From their humble beginnings in 18th-century Germany to their pivotal role in shaping the fairy tale genre, this episode uncovers the captivating stories behind these legendary storytellers. Discover how Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm preserved folk traditions and ga...

National heroes are more than just historical figures; they embody the struggles, aspirations, and identity of a people. In this episode, we explore the lives and legacies of William Wallace and Paul Revere, two figures who fought to protect their homelands against English rule. From the battlefields of 13th-century Scotland to the midnight rides of Revolutionary America, these individuals became...