Happy February! This month’s honorable mention goes to a February holiday that originates in my home state of Pennsylvania: Groundhog Day. I know that most of you probably know the holiday best from the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day”, but I have to admit that this episode has absolutely nothing to do with that. Instead, this is a brief yet insightful look into the origins of this weird holiday, as well as its modern celebrations. And, of course, a bit about my own personal dislike for these garden pests.

Honorable Mentions: Groundhog Day

Pop Culture Mythology is an independent biweekly podcast that delves into how myth and folklore influence today’s books, movies, and television shows. It aims to explain how ancient myths and legends are still relevant in today’s world, and not just in a classroom setting. Mythology is still very much alive and a part of the modern world even if most people don’t realize it. Having an understanding of how these ancient stories shape society improves media literacy, give new insight into how the old world influences modern times, and keeps these stories from being lost to the ages.

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Happy May! This month’s honorable mention is the tikbalang, a terrifying horse monster from Filipino folklore. Yes, it’s yet another horse monster episode. Get ready to learn about this hideous beast… with only mild complaining from your host Ari.

Honorable Mentions: The Tikbalang

This month's honorable mention is the leshy: a Slavic nature spirit that resides in the forests. Tune in to learn about this reclusive yet fun trickster... as well as to hear yet another brief rant about how the suppression of pagan religions has altered perceptions of this creature.

Brought to you by Courtney from Spell Cast.

Honorable Mentions: The Leshy

As a continuation of highlighting myths, religions and folklore from the African diaspora, this week’s episode is all about voodoo. From the history of this religion to the persisting negative press given to it, listen and learn the truth about this religion that has contributed so much to our society and culture.

But be warned: I explain where I disappeared to last week and that’s a little bit boring.

Episode 18: Voodoo

The 2008 movie “Hellboy II: The Golden Army” has stunning fantasy creatures, impeccable world-building for its magical places, and relatable complex characters. But much like everything else that’s talked about in this podcast, all of these things have their roots in mythology. From the mythical beings behind the Bethmoora to the legend of the real Nuada, this week’s episode delves into all the ways in which ancient Celtic mythology influenced the creation of the magical beings in Hellboy II.

Honorable Mentions: Groundhog Day

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