

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

Sep 10, 2025 • 29min
Episode 452 - A Taste for Destruction
Explore the psychological dynamics of power and how it shapes leadership through mythic tales. Unpack the dark side of influential figures amplified by modern media, revealing the dangers of tyranny and oppression. Delve into stories like Lear's pride and the Cannibal King, illustrating the catastrophic impacts of hubris and unchecked power. Reflect on the potential for nobility amid chaos, emphasizing the need for personal authenticity and the importance of healing and creation rooted in love and justice.

21 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 39min
Episode 451 - The Path of Genius and Calling
Michael Meade delves into the importance of discovering one's inner genius and calling, suggesting that without purpose, we risk drifting through life. He emphasizes the transformative journey of self-discovery amidst cultural challenges. The podcast also explores the healing power of mythology and storytelling, revealing how they facilitate personal exploration. Additionally, it touches on the unique mentorship that can arise in unexpected moments and highlights the urgency of recognizing one's gifts for navigating today's world.

11 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 28min
Episode 450 - Healing and Transformation
Transformation is an ongoing force in the universe, closely tied to self-awareness and the resistance of the ego. The journey of change is likened to a caterpillar turning into a butterfly, emphasizing the psychological challenges we face. Rites of passage and cultural rituals provide a framework for healing and renewal, contrasting previous identities with new communal roles. These practices highlight our deep connection to nature and the vital role of elders in guiding us through these transformative experiences.

Aug 20, 2025 • 44min
Episode 449 - Creative Paths in Chaotic Times
Uncover the connection between chaos and creativity as struggles reveal pathways to self-discovery. Explore how community healing and personal journeys can transform illness into renewal. Emphasize the blend of stillness and creation, urging authentic artistic expression rooted in personal experiences. Delve into the importance of emotions as vital signals, advocating for their acknowledgment to foster well-being. Finally, recognize the transformative power of grief to promote joy and resilience in addressing societal challenges.

6 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 26min
Episode 448 - Be Your Note
Explore the transformative concept of 'little deaths' and how they can lead to profound self-discovery and appreciation for life. Delve into the emotional journey of grief, particularly surrounding the loss of loved ones, and the healing that comes from honoring their memory. Embrace the uniqueness of your spiritual path beyond traditional dogmas, seeking your personal truths. Finally, celebrate your authentic expression as a vital part of the cosmic symphony, encouraging genuine connections in your quest for spiritual awakening.

19 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 24min
Premium Episode 163 Excerpt - Know Yourself, Change the World
This discussion delves into the resilience that defines genius and its vital role in a tumultuous world. The importance of courage in pursuing one's inner calling is emphasized, suggesting that individual awakenings can spark significant collective change. Additionally, the Mayan myth of Pulpavu reveals humanity’s intricate ties to creation and consciousness. Lastly, it examines how encountering despair can lead to a personal transformation, giving rise to unique individuals who inspire others through their struggles.

35 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 27min
Episode 447 - Purpose and the Waking Soul
Explore the ongoing existential crisis as traditional worldviews crumble, leaving many feeling lost. Discover how finding personal purpose can lead to resilience amid chaos. Reflect on a tale of misguided enlightenment that critiques our fast-paced society. Unpack the true essence of soul purpose versus societal expectations, revealing its benefits for mental health. Engage in a dialogue about balancing effort and surrender on the spiritual path, while emphasizing inner exploration for hidden treasures and fulfillment.

Jul 30, 2025 • 28min
Episode 446 - On the Wings of Myth
This discussion highlights the often-forgotten youngest siblings in fairy tales who break societal spells and embody the genuine dreamer within. It critiques modern materialism while advocating for the mythic imagination as a path to wisdom. The talk contrasts logical and psychological thinking with the transformative power of myth, emphasizing its role in human growth. Additionally, complex mother-son dynamics are explored, revealing deeper emotional truths. Listeners are encouraged to reconnect with myth and imagination for personal and communal support.

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.