Circle Round

Malia Baker, Kelly Jenrette, and Kenny Leu share the story of a traveling acting troupe facing challenges from a harsh king and queen. The actors spread joy through their performances, but deceitful schemes threaten their reputation. Through clever tactics and a showcase of innocence, they prove their worth and continue to bring happiness through their art.

Jessika Van and Mark Pellegrino co-star in a Welsh tale about a girl, a drought, and a mouse with a life-saving secret. The story showcases resilience and intelligence in the face of adversity, as Catrin and the mouse uncover a hidden granary, ultimately saving their village from famine. The podcast also delves into Jessica Van's acting career and introduces The Croof instrument.

Cree Summer (Good Times, Abbott Elementary) headlines a Blackfoot legend about fast friends, warm winds, and why bears hibernate during the winter. Sign up for our monthly newsletter, "The Lion's Roar", here.

Guest Kenny Curtis from Greeking Out stars in a legend from Aboriginal Australia about a small bird named Kookaburra whose laughter saves the world from darkness and cold, bringing light and warmth. The story explores unique abilities and how they can transform dark days into ones filled with light and vision.

Oliver Stark plays a clever king determining the rightful heir based on inner traits. The twins' test involves a coin toss after symbolic items are presented. The story highlights the value of sharing and listener engagement with favorite stories.

NPR veterans Linda Wertheimer and Susan Stamberg share the heartwarming Kazakh folktale of lifelong friends who discover a chest of gold coins on their farm, leading to the creation of a friendship orchard to help others. The friends must decide between keeping the coins or freeing captive birds, ultimately choosing compassion over wealth.

Actress Erika Ishii joins the podcast to tell a Vietnamese tale about facing financial challenges, deceitful landlords, and the power of creative problem-solving. The story highlights the importance of valuing wisdom over material wealth and working together to overcome obstacles.

Vanessa Aspillaga (Dora Saves the Snow Princess, Leave the World Behind) stars in this Puerto Rican and Chilean tale about baby basil, cuddly kittens, and how two heads can be better than one. Sign up for our monthly newsletter, "The Lion's Roar", here.

Actress Julia Chan from Bojack Horseman and Extinct stars in a story about clever deception and justice. A merchant swindles a woodcutter, but the woodcutter's wife outwits him in a satisfying revenge plot. The seamstress then tricks the merchant to reclaim what's rightfully hers. The podcast also features discussions on podcasts, music, and encourages listeners to explore more stories on the website.

Jonigan Booth from The Underdoggs and This Is Us shares an Angolan tale of following your heart and the healing power of dreams. Follow Omari's journey as he makes a fateful choice by the river, becoming a determined young healer despite facing opposition. The episode showcases forgiveness, generosity, and pursuing dreams, ending with listeners' favorite Circle Round stories.