Wyrd Folk

In this special episode Sam answers questions about her debut novel 'Slueths' which will be published this Thursday by Avon Books. Harriet, who was our first ever listener and is also one of Sam's long time friends, sat down to ask Sam all about the book, her inspirations for writing and how she found herself writing a crime rom-com when her first love is horror. You can order Slueths via Bookshop.org https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/sleuths-samantha-moody/7913549or Watersone's https://www.waterstones.com/book/sleuths/samantha-moody/9780008778163Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The twisted branches and moss covered rocks of Wistman's Wood on Dartmoor are so evocatively eldrich that it is no surprise strange stories have grown in between the trees. Join us this week as we venture into the dark of the forest to find what lurks within. Like the show? Then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodSupport the show on Patreon and help us keep recording https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodOr visit us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com for show updates, writing challenges and moreWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we are lucky to be joined by magic makers Jackie Morris and Tamsin Abbott to talk about the creative process behind their book of stories, poems and illustrations inspired by the British countryside and the folklore all around us. Join us as we discuss how folklore inspires fiction, the magic to be found on the wind and the beauty of ink on glass. Jackie and Tamsin are endlessly fascinating, completely inspiring and such great fun. Wild Folk is out to buy now via Waterstones https://www.waterstones.com/book/wild-folk/jackie-morris/tamsin-abbot/9781645024569 or from local independent booksellers via Bookshop.org https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/wild-folk-tales-from-the-stones-jackie-morris/d934f63a50bf69fd?ean=9781645024569&next=tLike the show? Then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodSupport the show on Patreon and help us keep recording https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodOr visit us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com for show updates, writing challenges and moreWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a story told about the earthworks at Maiden Bower in Bedfordshire. It is a story of challenge and cunning and an ox hide which must stretch to encompass an entire kingdom. How can this maiden save her people? With the cunning of the women throughout the centuries who have used their skills to save themselves and their people. Listen in this week to discover how this tiny hill fort is connected to the great city of Carthage and the myth of the minotaur. Like the show? Then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodOr find us on www.wyrdfolkpod.comWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hwaet! to our interview with the fabulous folklore creators behind Hwaet!zine. This week, we ask George Parr and Bunty May Marshall about the inspirations behind the issues of Hwaet!zine and their artistic process. Join us for Tolkien chat, tips for tours of the Orkney Isles and much more.Find more information about Hwaet!zine via their website https://www.hwaetzine.co.uk/Find more information about the show, including how to contact us via www.wyrdfolkpod.com Or follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ancient Irish kingdom of Ossary is awash with werewolf stories. Here, your soul can transform into a wolf in your sleep and marauding war bands are wolves in disguise. If you roam the woods outside of Meath, you might find yourself in conversation with a wolf-man, too. Join us this week for two stories of beastly transformation and the nature of man. Love the show? Then join us on Patreon and vote in the show poll to tell us which story you liked best. https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodOr check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.comOr follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the first episode in our series of interviews with successful folklore writers and creators, we were lucky enough to be able to sit down with Martin and Eleanor from the Three Ravens Podcast to talk to them about their creative influences, how they put the show together and what interests them most about folklore. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the far north west of Northumberland, there is a village where a wicked witch once lived: a wicked witch who hoarded her money and blighted her neighbours' crops and cursed the village. Or did she? Meg of Meldon is a tricky character to pin down. The stories about her are many, and the truths are scarce. Did she really hide all her gold in a bullhide bag at the bottom of the estate well? Or is it under the bridge where her ghost can often be seen? And what about her pact with the devil? The problem with Meg of Meldon is that she has been such a well-told local tale for so long that it is difficult to know where the truth ends and the tales begin. This week, Sam and Nikki try two different tales to unpick the riddle of Meg. Join us!If you like the show, then come follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodOr support us via our Patreon page https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodOr visit our website www.wyrdfolkpod.comWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Valentine's Day, we say beware the elf knight! Rather than lean in to the romance, we're taking a look at how seemingly romantic encounters can end up being cautionary tales. Join us for two stories about dastardly rakes, fearless young women and murderous love. No parrots allowed. If you like the show, then follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodOr find us on our website www.wyrdfolkpod.comOr join us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we travel to Kent, where Kits Coty House sits on Bluebell Hill in the beautiful Medway Valley. This ancient megalith is all that remains of a Neolithic tomb, which has a long and storied history. Some say that the house was built by witches, others say it was built by giants. Is it a respite for shepherds or a portal to the fairy world? Perhaps it is the tomb of the infamous Jutish warrior Horsa. Listen in this week for two stories which explore the many tales surrounding this iconic ancient site. Follow the show on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodFind us on TikTok @wyrdfolkpodVisit us at www.wyrdfolkpod.com Support us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodWyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To kick off our new season, we've gone for a classic English tale of giants, plucky heroes and clever escapes. Jack is an everyman who travels the country slaying giants with his wits and saving cursed princesses with his magic treasures. Join us for two tales of unlikely heroes, tricky giants and adventure. Make sure to follow us on Instagram @wyrd.folkpodOr support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/WyrdFolkPodAnd check out our website for show updates www.wyrdfolkpod.com Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Holly and the Ivy is the beautiful traditional carol which themes our 2025 Christmas special. Full of mid-winter imagery, the carol showcases the symbolism of English country Christmas customs and Christian imagery. Join us for two stories of midwinter greenery, the joy of music for the festive season and links to mid-winter festivals such as Yule and local folklore.Check us out on Instagram @wyrd.folkpod for up-to-date show news.Also, make sure to check out our website www.wyrdfolkpod.com to see more details from the show.Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Hedley Kow is a devilish sprite, keen to play tricks on the unwary and the trusting. A shapeshifter, the kow can often be found duping the unsuspecting with the illusion of gold, until it meets its match in a woman so happy with her lot in life that she doesn't mind her changing fortune. This charming fairytale from Northumberland is the perfect pantomime tonic for the festive season. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the Orkney Islands, they tell the story of the changing seasons through the eternal battle between the goddess Mither and her counterpart- the terrible storm god Teran. When the weather turns and the storms roll in, they battle in the deeps, bringing thunderous weather and much needed change. Join us for two tales of the force of the sea and the eternal pull of the tides. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the lonely lanes of early Victorian London, a fiend lurks in the shadows to frighten young maidens. This hellish figure is reported to have metallic claws, horns, breathe fire and can leap ten-foot walls in a single bound. But who is he? Is he a fiend from the pit of hell, or is he just a bored nobleman with a grudge?Remember to vote for your favourite story on our episode blog once you've listened to the show.Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our one-year anniversary episode, we are delving into the ghostly happenings at a luxury country hotel in the Cotswolds. The beautiful Lygon Arms, with its oak-panelled dining room and cosy fires, is just the place to enjoy a winter ghost story. Restored by Sydney B Russell, the father of the great furniture designer Gordon Russell, the hotel is both modern and ancient; here, the staff whisper tales of ghostly knocking in the King Charles Room, a spectral child haunts the halls, and even the guests must beware of the touch of a cold hand in the darkness. This Halloween, join us for two tales of the ancient, haunted inn. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This spooky short was originally written for Season 2 Episode 2: The Cauld Lad of Hylton. Now a ruin, Hylton Castle is known in local legend for the brutal murder of a poor stable lad, whose restless ghost still wandered the halls of the castle after he was slaughtered by the lord of the manor. The Cauld Lad can find no peace or rest until someone warms his bones for him. Listen to the full episode for Sam's take on the story and the background to the legend. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the Orkney Islands, they tell of a sea serpent so enormous that it could devour whole villages in a single bite and kill entire communities with one puff of its poison breath. Mester Stoor Worm is not just a monster; he is a god: Jörmungandr world snake. A beast so enormous that his broken teeth form the Faroe Islands. Who can defeat such a gargantuan beast but the seventh son of a seventh son? Listen in this week for two stories of gods, monsters, heroes and princesses. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's spooky short for Halloween is taken from our series two episode on The Hairy Hands of Dartmoor. A stretch of the B3212 road outside Postbridge on Dartmoor has a gruesome reputation, for it is where the hairy hands lurk, ready to attack unwary travellers. In the episode, both Sam and I imagined what it would be like to have an encounter with these ghoulish, murderous, hairy hands. A Hand in the Darkness is a truly terrifying tale, perfect for Halloween. If you like the story, then make sure you listen back to the full episode to listen to Nikki's tale as well.Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gather round the fireside for a story of terror from Leap Castle. The Unwilling Guest first appeared in the second episode of season 1 of the podcast. This tale is Nikki's take on the seances held at Leap by the lady of the castle, Mildred Darby, who first recorded encounters with what she called 'the elemental' in the gallery at Leap Castle. This episode is the first of our short story re-releases for Halloween. Wyrd Folk is a duelling folk storytelling podcast. Every episode will contain two stories for your listening pleasure, and you are the final judge of which one of us told the best version of the tale. Once you've listened, tell us which one you liked best by heading over to the episode blog on our website to vote on the episode poll for that story. https://www.wyrdfolkpod.com/episodes-1Remember to keep writing wyrd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.