Tales for Life

Progress in life is a continuous journey -- a path that unfolds from our present moment. This episode features a timeless, cautionary tale from Japan that underscores this truth with unwavering clarity.

Spilled beer, pigs climbing trees, and the question of what to name children who aren't yet born all combine in this episode in a funny French tale with a dose of wisdom for today and generations to come. The green grass is probably right under your own feet.

A soldier out of work, a deal with the devil, and a promise made by a man down on his luck combine to teach a valuable lesson that has stood for over three centuries. Even before words like "self-esteem" and "self-respect" were common terms, the "folk" were telling tales about it.

An old man and woman, a pet sparrow, a horrible deed, and a just reward. This traditional tale from Japan shows us that the best investment to make is one in people, because that's the only way you can buy happiness.

A chambermaid, a princess-turned-goose girl, a king, and a tale more than 200 years old combine to remind us that it's the choices we make that create our circumstances.

The "Theory of Luck" tells us that luck does indeed exist. But how do we get lucky? With a little help from the Brothers Grimm, we see that luck will find us...if we just keep going.

Setting a goal is great, but it's the why behind the goal that is really important. In this version of "Jack and the Beanstalk," based closely on the original, we see how important it is to keep our why in mind as we strive for whatever goal we seek. And when we do, nothing can stop us.

Jam, giants, a unicorn, and a tailor with loads of self-belief show us that the greatest ability we have is adaptability. With proper application, we can adapt and get to places we never thought possible!

What do a king (Russian czar), shepherd, and the refusal to say "To your good health" have to do with you? Maybe a lot more than you know! Tune in and find out how principles can take you everywhere!

Fame, infamy, fun. In this episode, with a little help from a tale from The Thousand and One Nights, we take a funny look at one of the pitfalls of notoriety.

We may say that you can't judge a book by its cover, but we do anyway. Appearances matter. A fun tale from Spain, and a funny tale from Turkey, help illustrate the point that you're only going to get to the ball if you dress for it.

A poor old man and woman, a bird trapped by a snare, and a classic and unforgettable tale combine to remind us that it doesn't take much to be kind and to make the world a better place by doing so.

The best things in life might not be free, but they're far from the most expensive. Many have a value far exceeding their price tag. This tale from France, first published over 130 years ago, helps to remind us of just that.

Laughter has been called the best medicine. Even if you don't need a doctor, a little humor can still be a great perk-me-up. Enjoy this episode of four stories bound to bring at least a smile -- and probably more -- to your face.

No matter how you define success -- in life, finances, business, or wherever -- you can't get there alone. This happy East Slavic tale from over a century ago gives the same advice you'll find in many success books today...but in a much more enjoyable format.

Reputations, opinions, and real life don't always match, but even when they do, it might only be part of the story. Over 300 years ago, a French author illustrated this point for us in a clever tale that's always worth keeping in mind.

It's tempting to see the way things are and get discouraged. But what you see today doesn't have to be -- and often isn't -- what you'll see tomorrow. Discover the hope offered by a Danish author's tale about being born in a farm but never giving up on yourself.

Have you ever considered the connection between you and a Japanese folktale about a boy who failed to become a priest? No? Listen to our first episode and discover why the things that call to you shouldn’t be ignored!