

Living Myth
Michael Meade
Mosaic presents Living Myth, a podcast with Michael Meade, renowned mythologist and storyteller. Meade presents mythic stories that offer uniquely insightful and wise ways of understanding the current dilemmas of the world we live in. Living Myth proposes that genuine solutions to the complex and intractable problems of our world require both transcendent imagination and cohering, transformative narratives.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 23, 2025 • 31min
Episode 445 - The Spirit of Life
Delve into a captivating tale of a youth confronting a powerful spirit to unleash his unique gifts. The narrative emphasizes the necessity of external validation for personal growth and warns against bottling up one's inner spirit. As the discussion unfolds, it highlights the importance of facing fears to embark on the transformative 'second adventure of life.' Moreover, it connects individual healing to broader global healing, urging listeners to explore their inner realms for a genuine sense of purpose amid a chaotic world.

8 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 38min
Episode 444 - An Act of Truth
Dive into the intriguing exploration of how conspiracy theories and misinformation thrive in our quest for belonging. Discover the psychological impact of group dynamics on personal identity, and how polarization intensifies the acceptance of false narratives. Uncover ancient wisdom contrasting true vision with ignorance, and hear transformative stories highlighting the healing potential of truth. Finally, learn how courage and small acts of honesty can foster significant societal change and restore our collective integrity.

Jul 9, 2025 • 34min
Episode 443 - Facing Inner Fears
A fairy tale reveals a kingdom in despair, needing the Water of Life to revive a sick king. The journey emphasizes humility, vulnerability, and confronting inner fears, led by a wise dwarf. Listeners explore the relationship between leadership and environmental health, and how embracing one's inner youth can lead to transformative healing. Facing sorrow and inadequacy becomes essential for personal growth, highlighting that fear is not just a barrier, but a pathway to discovering deeper wisdom and creativity.

37 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 30min
Episode 442 - Your Lot in Life
Explore the ancient belief that every soul has a unique path, rooted in the symbolism of the World Tree. Delve into the role of myths in shaping our understanding of life’s complexities and the significance of individual destinies. Discover how recognizing your divine purpose can guide you through challenges and awaken your true self. The podcast emphasizes personal growth and authenticity as crucial for contributing to a more united and renewed human experience.

Jun 25, 2025 • 28min
Episode 441 - A Light Within Dark Times
Explore an ancient Persian myth that reveals the deep-rooted nature of conflict and its psychological impact on society. Discover how poetry and art can serve as beacons of hope during turmoil. Delve into creation myths that highlight doubt as a catalyst for growth and insight. Learn about the importance of healing divisions to foster lasting peace. Embrace the tensions of life, where fear and beauty coexist, driving creativity and connection even in challenging times.

Jun 18, 2025 • 26min
Episode 440 - The Orphan Boy and the Heedless King
A fascinating Indian myth unfolds as a powerful king meets a ragged orphan boy, challenging the nature of authority and wisdom. The disguised Vishnu reveals the fleeting nature of power, stressing the dignity of every individual. The orphan's perspective sheds light on the dangers of narcissistic leadership and societal division. This discussion emphasizes embracing vulnerability and recognizing our shared humanity, calling for inner exploration to heal personal and collective wounds.

21 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 32min
Episode 439 - In a World Gone Wrong
The discussion unfolds around the shattering of the world and its impact on human connections. It explores how crises like climate change provoke personal and collective transformation. Rumi's wisdom highlights the potential for new communities to emerge from chaos. The interplay of logic and imagination shapes our journey, encouraging listeners to nurture their souls amidst turmoil. Renewal and growth are central themes, emphasizing the importance of letting go of outdated perceptions to reconnect with deeper truths.

Jun 4, 2025 • 35min
Episode 438 - Heart Within the Heart
Explore the transformative power of the heart, where wisdom meets imagination. Discover the universal archetype of divine motherhood and its role in compassion. Learn how pain can connect us to nature and foster personal growth. Delve into confronting darkness for enlightenment, revealing hidden treasures for healing. Examine the traps of desire that bind us, akin to a story of hunters and coconuts. Finally, embark on a journey to open the heart, overcoming fear to embrace love and personal development.

7 snips
May 28, 2025 • 32min
Episode 437 - On the Road of Fate and Destiny
Explore the intricate dance between fate and destiny, emphasizing the importance of personal journeys. Discover how storytelling impacts self-discovery and authenticity, especially through powerful anecdotes. Delve into youthful struggles and their role in personal growth while navigating life's challenges. Reflect on the soul's journey as a theatrical performance, questioning identity and purpose. Finally, be inspired to embrace your unique mission and the courage it takes to live authentically.

41 snips
May 21, 2025 • 23min
Episode 436 - In the River of Time
This discussion delves into why people are inclined to trust authoritative leaders, especially during uncertain times. It explores how biases can lead to manipulation and conformity within societies. The impact of digital networks in disseminating disinformation is critically examined, highlighting the struggle for truth in a chaotic world. The conversation advocates for seeking timeless wisdom and imagination, suggesting that ancient myths may offer solutions to contemporary challenges. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for balance in human nature.