The Apple Seed

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers. This weeks' stories features traditional and modern ballads, one of the world’s oldest storytelling forms, used for centuries to preserve epic events, big emotions, and pivotal moments in human history. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:26) "Barbara Allen" by Josh Goforth. A traditional ballad, "Barbara Allen," which is more than 300 years old and reflects the enduring storytelling culture of the Appalachian region. (10:29) "Building a Doorway to Story," by Sam Payne. A story about when Sam and his siblings helped his dad build a special bookshelf, that held a record player. And how that record player helped him find the doorway to some of the great works of famous poets and musicians. (14:52) "Hammers of Steel - The Ballad of John Henry" by Charlotte Blake Alston. A powerful spoken ballad about the legendary American folk hero John Henry, who famously challenged a steam-powered machine in a battle of human strength versus modern technology. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson Post-Production Supervisor - Trent Reimschussel Editor - Madie Clasby Audiovisual Technician - Kiplin Merrill Post-Production Audio Engineers - Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril

Today we bring you a special bonus episode featuring some of the National Youth Storytellers. (00:00) Sam's Intro (1:22) June Elyse Willingham tells a traditional folk tale, "Lazy Jack." (9:29) Tessa Taggart tells an original story based on one of her ancestors called "Tessa's Mostly True Story." (15:44) Ender Rasmussen shares an original folktale called "How Sparrow Earned Its Wings." (19:50) Annabelle Larson tells a spooky story, "The Camping Trip." (24:18) Ariana Watts tells an original folk tale, "The Red Dragon." If you want to learn more about the National Youth Storytelling program go to: nationalyouthstorytelling.org. Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about how catastrophizing everyday problems can turn simple disagreements into lasting conflicts and how self-awareness can be the solution. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:14) "Bastianello" by Donna Washington. A humorous story in which a newly married couple and their in-laws become consumed by a problem that hasn’t yet occurred. As conflict escalate, the story reveals how catastrophic thinking can complicate situations that might otherwise be easily resolved. (15:28) "Calls with Mom" by Sam Payne. A story about the conversations Sam's wife has with their daughter when she is paralyzed with worry, and the questions that help his daughter become proactive with her fears. (19:13) "Is Not Is Too" - Bill Harley tells a a witty a song about siblings locked in a cycle of constant disagreement. Each is convinced the other is the problem, and the ongoing conflict illustrates how an unwillingness to share responsibility can prevent even simple disputes from being resolved. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson Post-Production Supervisor - Trent Reimschussel Editor - Madie Clasby Audiovisual Technician - Kiplin Merrill Post-Production Audio Engineers - Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers that explore healing from grief and trauma through storytelling, showing how stories can restore, connect, and bring meaning long after painful experiences. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:38) "The Twice Saved Life" by Alton Takiyama-Chung. A powerful true story from history. Alton recounts the life of Solly Gaynor, a young Jewish boy who survived the Holocaust and later found healing from the trauma decades after the horrific events by meeting the Japanese man who saved him and by sharing his story. (10:43) "Years Later," by Sam Payne. A heartfelt tale about about how a story can ripple forward through the years. While moving 50 miles away on his own, Sam experienced a moment that later returned unexpectedly, blessing his life and reminding him of the enduring impact of kindness. (16:23) "The Story Stone" by Dovie Thomason. An ancient Haudenosaunee story about a grieving young boy. Through learning, carrying, and sharing stories, the boy begins to heal, illustrating how traditional storytelling has long been a pathway to emotional healing and wisdom. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson Post-Production Supervisor - Trent Reimschussel Editor - Madie Clasby Audiovisual Technician - DJ Cromarty Post-Production Audio Engineers - Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about practical jokes, misunderstandings, and mishaps that turn into lasting family memories. (01:20) "Damien's Limp" - Geraldine Buckley tells a funny and surprising childhood story about her jokester brother who loved to torment her, until one day he began limping and a doctor feared he might have polio, leading to an unexpected turn. (17:57) Sam tells a story about his siblings and how they never stop teasing and poking fun at one another, no matter how old they get. (21:29) "Three Cowboys" - Tim Lowry tells a humorous campfire story about three cowboys reminiscing about the comforts of home, which leads them into a lively conversation about ridiculous and unforgettable pets. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about small acts, choices, and habits can make a big impact on individuals and communities. (01:39) "Mzee Chomba" - Mara Menzies tells a powerful folktale about an elderly man who tries to stop people from fighting, only to be ignored as the conflict escalates, illustrating how the absence of small acts of peace can lead to great harm. (13:41) Sam tells a story about how his piano lessons, and how either practicing consistently or ignoring practicing daily, affected both his musical abilities and those of his piano teacher. (17:15) "Work Then Play" - Kim Weitkamp tells a playful and instructive story about a hardworking ant named Zia and a lazy grasshopper named Yohoppy, offering a lesson about effort, responsibility, and long-term rewards. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the unexpected moments that arise when we begin new adventures, and the surprises that often come with trying something new. (01:20) "Bear's Party" - Bill Harley tells a playful and imaginative story about Bear, who plans a party on the night of a full moon, while his friends worry that no one will show up. (12:39) Sam tells a story about his brother's third birthday, when his family attempted a ranger-guided tour of Timpanogos Cave, and discovered how unpredictable adventures can be. (17:50) "How Some Stories Came to Be" - Lyn Ford tells a traditional story from the Zulu storytelling tradition about a mother named Manzendaba, who sets out on a journey to find stories for her children. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for heartwarming Christmas stories from great storytellers sharing memories, traditions, and moments that capture the magic of the holiday season. (1:22) "The Time It Snowed" - Donald Davis tells a memorable Christmas story from his father’s childhood involving pneumonia, a bear, and, of course, Santa Claus. (15:22) Sam tells a story about a Christmas from his own childhood when his father took him to the store to pick out some unusual gifts for his siblings. (19:43) "Christmas Candles" - Bill Lepp tells a story about the candles he received at every Christmas Eve church service and how he turned them into a game of patience that he now plays with his children. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

In this special Christmas episode, we are celebrating the spirit of the season through stories of service, generosity, and light. The Appleseed is brought to you by BYUradio which is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each year The Church sponsors a worldwide initiative called Light the World, focused on spreading kindness and serving others during the holidays. For this episode, we reached out to the storytellers you know and love from The Apple Seed, inviting them to share acts of service that have had a lasting impact on their lives. Featured storytellers include: (00:00) Intro (01:40) Kim Weitkamp (05:45) Tim Lowry (09:44) Antonio Sacre (11:45) Sam Payne (17:23) Bil Lepp (19:27) Sheila Arnold We hope these inspiring Christmas stories encourage you think of the ways you can reach out and serve others during the holiday season and spark memories of Christmas time service that you can share with the people you love. To find ideas and opportunities to serve, visit lighttheworld.org and discover ways to experience the joy of helping others at Christmastime. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about sisters whose courage, care, and example create life-changing moments. (01:06) "Walking to School with my Sister" - Kevin Kling tells a tender personal story about what he observed when his siblings walked him to and from school, revealing the power of sibling support and shared experiences. (09:16) Sam tells a story about an unusual memory of his sister, possibly a dream, that captures her personality and shows how she continues to inspire him to be brave. (13:12) "Thakane the Brave" - Charlotte Blake Alston tells a story about an orphan girl who must face a fearsome beast to help her brothers prove themselves and become men. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Enjoy another podcast from the Apple Seed team: The Christmas Jars Podcast. New York Times bestselling author Jason Wright shares a true story of an act of service that made a big difference for a family in real need. You can find to the full season of The Christmas Jars Podcast wherever you get your podcasts or at byuradio.org/christmas-jars. You can even watch the movie based on the Christmas Jars book right there on byuradio.org! If you're looking for more ways to serve this Christmas season, then the annual Light the World campaign can give you a lot of ideas. Visit lighttheworld.org to learn more.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about some winter adventures, forbidden fun, and stretching of tales to preposterous proportions. (01:21) "The Forbidden Souped-up Sled Ride" - Kim Weitkamp shares a hilarious tall tale about the time her Uncle Norm fixed her broken sled by adding a jet-propulsion engine, resulting in an unexpected and unforgettable flight over her small town. (19:07) Sam tells a story about a Klondike Derby, where his Boy Scout troop built sleds to race against other troops during a cold-weather campout (22:47) "Let's Go Sledding" - Sam Payne accompanies Kim Weitkamp as she sings a playful song about sledding. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the moments in life that teach us courage and bravery, even in the face of risk or danger, and how those early acts of courage can benefit us throughout our lives. (01:22) "Fire Bike" - Bil Lepp tells a humorous and high-energy childhood story about a time when his friend Elmore set out to impress a girl by attempting the daring and ill-advised feat of setting his bike chain on fire. (16:07) Sam tells a personal story and reflection on the things we do to impress someone we like, and how those moments of bravery help us develop confidence and courage that serve us later in life. (18:31) "Rabbit and Old Man" - Lyn Ford tells a traditional folktale about featuring the rabbit from many children’s stories, who sneaks into an old man’s garden to steal vegetables when the old man finally catches him, testing Rabbit’s cleverness and courage. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about children who try to do the right thing, even in difficult, awkward, or embarrassing situations. And how, as adults, acknowledging those efforts can mean the world to a child. (1:14) "Teacher's Lounge" - Bill Harley tells a story about how, as an elementary student, he and his classmate Emily broke a few rules to help a fellow student and uncovered the mystery behind the Teacher’s Lounge. (18:07) Sam tells a story about when he was asked to be the ring bearer at his aunt's wedding. (21:00) "New Pastor" - Tim Lowry tells a story about the day his father delivered a model sermon at Putney Bible Baptist Church in hopes of becoming the new pastor, only to have events complicated when Tim’s sister faces a potty emergency directly beneath the pulpit. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about peacemakers and reflections on forgiveness, reconciliation, and understanding. (1:44) "It Takes Two" - Motoko shares deeply personal story about meeting a man who carries painful war stories connected to her culture, and her efforts to build a bridge of understanding and peace across historical wounds. (14:20) Sam tells a moving personal story about his grandfather, Gordon W. Pappas, reflecting on his experiences as a prisoner of war and how he ultimately learned to let go of the rancor of war through forgiveness. (17:44) "My Monk" - Antonio Rocha tells a heartfelt story about his cousin who, despite his outwardly gruff and sometimes mean demeanor, embodied compassion, humility, and a glimpse of heaven for Antonio. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for spooky stories from great storytellers featuring folklore, personal memories, and eerie tales perfect for the Halloween season. (1:20) "Halloween" - Kevin Kling shares a nostalgic Halloween memory about trick-or-treating in farm country during his youth. (8:13) Sam tells a personal story about his wife's birthday where people bring Halloween inspired stories instead of gifts. (11:32) "The Eternal Wanderer of La Palma" - Carolina Quiroga tells a story about a poncho-obsessed cowboy whose pride lead to a haunting curse. (20:14) "Turn Me Over" - Bobby Norfolk tells a creepy ghost story an mysterious voice that haunts a woman at night. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about people who were deceived by appearances, hidden identities, and unexpected transformations. (1:20) "The Changeling" - Mara Menzies tells a traditional folktale about a young couple with a new baby who suddenly changes one day. (16:02) Sam tells a story about learning to just be himself and showing the power of authenticity by not pretending to be something he is not. (18:32) "The Crocodile Man" - Jasmin Cardenas tells a story about a lovesick man who changes himself into a crocodile to meet the woman he loves. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers Madie Clasby, Garrett Gunnell, Keri Griggs, Paige Jensen-Rutter, and Kay Hendrickson. Post-Production Supervisor Trent Reimschussel. Editor Madie Clasby. Production Audiovisual Technician DJ Cromarty. Post-Production Audio Engineers Taehyeon Ted Kim and Kiplin Merril.

Starting Season 12, you can now WATCH The Apple Seed podcast with LIVE storytellers. Find the video podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or on the BYUradio App! Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne.

Don't miss this special recording of Emmy-award winning David Holt and Josh Goforth sharing some of their favorite Appalachian tunes and stories. Recorded by the International Storytelling Center and used with their gracious permission. PLAYLIST: (2:12) The Clouds Gonna Roll Away. (4:31) The Cotton-eyed Joe. (8:35) The Drovers. (12:13) Jesus Said Go. (16:35) Darkness on the Delta. (23:40) The Magic Lake of the Animals. (32:42) Railroad Bill. (36:10) Goodbye Dear Old Stepstone. (42:33) Greasy Greens. (47:28) Barbara Allen. (53:22) Good Old Mountain Dew. (45:36) Tailypo. (1:04:59) The Deep Water Blues. (1:08:08) Memories of Ray Hicks. (1:14:49) The Star of Munster/Hell Broke Loose in Georgia. VIDEO LINK: To see the International Storytelling Center's video recording of this Storytelling Live concert, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGDPkwmlZZo The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne.

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about fathers who created lasting memories with their sons. (1:27) "Pinewood Derby" - Bil Lepp tells a story about his father who helped him build a pinewood derby car. (7:28) Sam Payne tells a story about sailing with his dad. (12:43) "Lightning in Church" - Kevin Kling tells a story about how he was struck by lightning just like his father and his father before him. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne.