Story Mischief

In this episode, Michael and guest Matt Eckert complete their journey and discussion of the transformation and unification of Samwise - the unsung hero of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Together, Matt and Michael discuss the four phases of initiation, the role each plays in transforming identity, the importance of "shadow work" in the process, and how this all translates to real life. In the end, it's the character of Samwise that elevates and shapes Matt's personal journey and with thoughtful reflections, he helps us understand why Sam is a figure that has something valuable for all of us.

After episode 48 ended, the conversation kept going. So on this episode, Matt Eckert joins Micheal for the start of a two-parter in which they discuss the unification of Samwise. They begin with an exploration of the function and value of quests in myth and story, identify specific life quests that have impacted them both, and start to name ways in which stories like the Lord of the Rings can help us make shifts in our own unique stories.

When fiction speaks truth, the kind that helps us know who we are and what matters most, it tends to stick, leaves an impact, and can shape our lives in ways we might never have expected. In this episode, Michael and guest Matt Eckert embark on a quest for truth and meaning in J.R.R Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy. Together they explore the book's prophetic nature, its relevance to our modern times, and the timeless observations about the human condition that it offers.

When it comes to fairy tales, nothing is as simple as it may seem; this is especially true when it comes to the story of Snow White. Whatever version you choose, from The Brother's Grimm to 2012's Snow White and the Huntsman, this story is packed with signs and symbols that all point toward the same thing - finding the light inside of the darkness. Joining Michael in this exploration is Story Mischief third-timer Lynn Trotta. Adding her unique perspective as a ceremonial leader, nature-based mentor, and her life-long love for the tale, Lynn helps Michael reveal what's been hiding in plain sight for centuries.

From ancient goddess myths to Disney's Tangled, the story of Rapunzel continues to shed light on complex subjects. With help from guest Ami Lloyd, Michael seeks to untangle and understand what this "maiden in the tower" story has to offer us in modern times. Together they explore everything from how to support teens as they're figuring out who they are to learning how to trust yourself after years of being manipulated and gaslit.

"Samsara" is a Buddhist term representing the endless cycles of death and rebirth. By most accounts, It's a total drag. But if it's inner peace and freedom you're after, well, then Nirvana is the place for you! Enlightenment, baby! That's where you belong. Getting there, however, isn't going to be so simple. Especially in a world where everyone seems to have the answer, but few have attained it themselves. So, how do we know who to believe? How does one break free from the endless cycles of suffering? Herman Hesse's 1922 novel, Siddhartha, is a great place to start! Simple enough, a 12-year-old could read it. Deep enough, it may take ten lifetimes to understand fully. So, first a beer, then enlightenment!

This long-overdue launch into the Marvel Universe begins with its' greatest misfits, the Guardians of the Galaxy. And helping Michael lead the exploration, is long-time comic book fan and leader in the wilderness connection movent, Ricardo Sierra. Together they explore; what it is about this collection of unlikely heroes that has so many of us loving them, how and why the soundtrack (arguable a character in the story) elevates the storytelling, and what the Guardians of the Galaxy may have to teach us about becoming guardians of our own home planet, earth. Did they get it right? Find out on this episode of Story Mischief.

FINALLY!... Ya get it. "Finally." As in Death is FINAL. But also as in, I finally dig into the collection of ancient Hindu texts known as the Upanishads. And more specifically, the Katha Upanishad. The story of young Nachiketa and his visit with Yama, the god of death, represents a departure from earlier Upanishads in that it was the first written for the common seeker and not exclusively for the priestly class (the Brahmin cast). And since I'm brand new to this incredibly rich collection of texts, stories, and teachings, I've asked teacher and long-time yoga instructor, Christa Mastrangelo Joyce, to help guide us through. Thanks to her and some excellent lectures on YouTube, this episode offers a friendly and engaging introduction into this foundational and beautiful story.

What is it about Robin Hood that has had people telling his story for over 800 years? Who was he? A Man? Myth? A man in tights? In this week's episode, Michael and fellow story wizard, Elizabeth Bercovici, string their bows and take a shot at understanding what it is that makes this outlaw hero so damn attractive. From ancient poems to modern movies, one thing is for sure; Robin Hood has a way of putting people in touch with the strength and courage they need in the face of oppression.

The Trickster. Do they get a bad wrap or is it well deserved? This week's episode is an excerpt from an interview, taken from a 7-day virtual event hosted by writer and story mentor, Elizabeth Dylan Bercovici. In this section of the interview, Liz asks Michael about the role of mischief and the trickster archetype. Together they acknowledge the hazards but bring to light new possibilities for this often misunderstood force. In addition, they wander into "wild twin" and "wild god" territory to explore the role they have in creating change and healing.