In this episode we talk about the unforgettable stories of Walter Mitty -- in all its forms. We take a look at James Thurber’s original short story that's full of sharp humor; Danny Kaye’s imaginative 1947 adventure; then Ben Stiller’s visually beautiful and emotionally layered 2013 movie.

Each one tells a different kind of story about a daydreaming-man named Walter Mitty, but they all circle around the same question: what happens when imagination bumps up against real life?

All kinds of fun names and topics come up this episode like the famous face and voice of Boris Karloff and find out what a macguffin is according to George Lucas and Alfred Hitchcock!

Meet Ender Wiggin – born to save humanity. In this episode, we talk about the compelling, high-stakes world of Ender’s Game.

Written in the 1980s but looking ahead to Earth's future, this is a story of war games, manipulation, strategy, leadership, and love.

Come learn about Battle School and the blurred line between games and reality. Join us as we unpack the manipulation and moral dilemmas at the heart of Orson Scott Card’s sci-fi classic.

Want to learn more about the Good Stories Podcast? Check out our patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/c/GoodStoriesPodcast.

Step into the charming world of James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small! In this episode, we explore the heartwarming tales of a country vet in the 1930s Yorkshire Dales. This book is full of humor, compassion, and unforgettable characters—both human and animal.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering Herriot for the first time, join us as we share some of our favorite moments! We’ll talk about Siegfried Farnon, James’ eccentric but brilliant boss; Arthur, a large and expressive cat who communicates a lot with just one paw; and Tricki Woo, a hilariously pampered pup with an overly dramatic owner. And that’s just to start!

But more than anything these stories are about a people and a bygone time. Listen to find out more.

Any history lovers out there? In this episode, we dive into the wild life of Alcibiades—Ancient Athens' most charming troublemaker. From his privileged childhood under the guidance of Socrates to his bold (and sometimes reckless) moves in the Peloponnesian War, Alcibiades flipped loyalties more than once and helped shape the fate of empires like Athens, Sparta and Persia, along the way. Was he a genius, a traitor, or both? It’s a good story from history—full of glory, scandal, and strategy.

Tolkien reading day is tomorrow -- March 25th!!

And to celebrate the author as well as our 10th episode, we are walking through Middle Earth side-by-side with Bilbo Baggins -- in the wonderful adventure of The Hobbit. It's a classic hero's journey with a flavor all its own!

Bilbo encounters a wizard, dwarves, trolls, elves, goblins, a shape-shifter along with a dragon! He riddles his way through danger and learns his own skills as a rather trustworthy thief.

Whether you've read it before or you're just setting off on your first adventure, this episode is an invitation to learn about hobbits and hear why this little book holds such a big place in our hearts.

Join us as we explore the Mary Poppins books, which differ quite a bit from the movies, as Jane and Michael experience even wilder adventures. There are some of the same magical nanny vibes but turns out Mary has a whole lot in common with Dr Who!

She blows in on the East wind to help the Banks family, bringing both magic and some strict rules to the household. Our favorite chapters include stories about delicious gingerbread and painting the skies with stars as well as a red cow who can dance the Highland Fling.

Join us as we dive into The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce.

A heartwarming and deeply moving story about an ordinary man who embarks on an extraordinary journey -- not for himself but to save an old friend. What starts as a simple walk to the mailbox turns into a life-changing trek across England, filled with memories, unexpected friendships, and the quiet power of hope.

In this episode, we explore Harold’s transformation, the emotional weight of his journey, and the beautiful storytelling that makes this book unforgettable. Come enjoy this journey with us—one step at a time.

We're glad you're here! This episode dives into GK Chesterton and his book, The Ball and the Cross. In a rollercoaster plot, two sworn enemies demand a duel to the death—only to find themselves paired together on a wild adventure, dodging the police, confronting their own beliefs, and maybe even becoming friends along the way.

We also explore some amazing paradoxes from Chesterton—who was also known as the Prince of Paradox! Listen in to discover his favorite party concept and the fascinating idea behind Chesterton’s Fence. Buckle up as there are some crazy twists and turns in this story but also some wonderful philosophy and classic Chesterton sense of humor!