Ladies of Lore is the podcast dedicated to the fierce, forgotten and fascinating women of mythology and folklore. We unpick, unravel and explore their origins, their stories and explore how they have changed through time to arrive in today's modern world. From vengeful goddesses to cunning tricksters, warrior queens to mystical seers, we dive deep into the legends that shaped cultures and the women who ruled them.
Whether they've been erased, misunderstood or overshadowed, we're here to set the record straight and bring their stories to life. If you love myth, history and powerful women, this is the podcast for you.
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Delve into the fascinating history of logos, tracing their evolution from Mesopotamian seals and Greek philosophy to medieval heraldry and the Industrial Revolution. This episode also features an interview with artist Clara, who designed the new Ladies of Lore logo, explaining her process and the diverse mythological women depicted. Finally, uncover the mythological origins of modern brand logos, examining how figures like the Starbucks siren, Versace's Medusa, and Nike's goddess of victory powerfully influence global brands today.
Here is part 2 of our exploration into Snow White with the amazing Missy. This week we are covering the Grimm version of the tale, how Snow White made Disney what it is today and where she can be found in modern media and literature. Please show Missy some love over at: https://www.tumblr.com/allgirlsareprincesses https://whattheforce.ca/ Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLore Join the Discord! - https://discord.gg/qa6MnJj4zY Follow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.socia...
Thank you for 1 whole year of Ladies of Lore! I appreciate every one of you Snow White is so much more than just a Grimm Brothers fairy tale. It's a story that has truly traveled across continents and centuries. In this episode, we explore global variations of the Snow White narrative with special guest, Missy. Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLore Join the Discord! - https://discord.gg/qa6MnJj4zY Follow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok - @lad...
This week the gang from RPG Major are back and this time ready to sing to you all about faeries. Come and listen to the origins, transformations and modern interpretations of Faeries with the little added spice of some improvised music. Please check out RPG Major over at https://www.rpgmajor.com/ and if you enjoy their content please consider signing up over at https://www.patreon.com/c/RPGMajor/posts For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Support the show Join the Patreon! - p...
In this episode, we're tracing Cinderella from her ancient, ash-covered origins in global oral folklore to her bejeweled transformation through centuries of retellings. We'll explore how her story evolved across cultures, how Disney’s 1950 film rescued the studio from financial ruin, and how the Cinderella archetype continues to reinvent itself in modern media and pop culture. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://kidworldcitizen.o...
From goddesses who loved women to warrior queens who defied gender norms, this episode celebrates the queer women of mythology. This week we're unearthing sapphic stories and discussing the divine queerness that’s always been part of our history and mythology. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Help in LA: https://lapublicpress.org/2025/06/la-protest-resources-ice/ https://www.chirla.org/donatenow/ https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2025immigrantbondfund/ https://www.esperanza-la....
Atabey, the Taino Mother of creation, once shaped land, sea, and sky. In this episode, we explore her as life-giver and cosmic force—and trace how her image shifted through colonisation, erasure, and survival. From sacred caves to modern memory, we follow the story of a goddess who endures. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: Taíno: Indigenous Caribbeans - Black History Month 2025 Columbus and the Taíno - Exploring the Early Americas | E...
In the very first episode of Ladies of Lore on Tour, we'll step into the mists of East Anglia as we trace the footsteps of Boudicca, commune with the witches of Suffolk, explore fairy folklore, and unravel the mystery of the green children of Woolpit. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://www.nationalparks.uk/2024/09/30/discover-folklore-of-the-broads/ https://www.thesuffolkcoast.co.uk/articles/myths-legends-of-the-suffolk-coast ht...
Super short update this week to give you the low down on the latest at Ladies of Lore. Biggest news is that the Patreon & Discord Server are both now live and you can access them here: www.patreon.com/LadiesOfLore Hope to see and chat to some of you there! For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLore Join the Discord! - https://discord.gg/qa6MnJj4zY Follow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok -...
In this episode, we journey through myth, memory, and modern magic to explore the powerful Norse goddess Freyja. From her ancient origins as a Vanir deity of love, fertility, death, and seiðr, to her medieval demonisation and Enlightenment dismissal, Freyja’s identity has evolved across centuries of cultural transformation. We trace how she was reimagined during the Romantic and nationalist 19th century and how today she rises again—this time as a feminist icon, digital warrior, and muse for vid...
This week we will be taking a look at the transformation of one of mythology’s most misunderstood women: Circe. From Homer’s dangerous enchantress to a symbol of female power and self-authorship, we'll trace Circe’s evolution through ancient texts, centuries of retellings, and her feminist reclamation in today’s literature and culture. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://www.ancient-origins.net/myths-legends-europe/spellbinding-s...
Join me for a very special episode of Ladies of Lore, featuring the incredibly talented cast of RPG Major, the improvised musical actual play podcast. Today we explore the Sirens, find out where they come from, hear their stories and learn about how they have changed through time to arrive in today's modern world. All while hearing some amazing improvised songs from RPG Major. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Follow RPG Major: https://www.rpgmajor.com/ https://bsky.app/pr...
In this episode, we unravel the mystery of Pandora’s story, the true meaning of her jar, and the curious fate of hope. Was it a blessing, a trick, or something more? For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1884-0807-1 https://turkisharchaeonews.net/object/pithos-garden-troy https://www.britannica.com/topic/Pandora-Greek-mythology https://www.greekmyths-greekmythology.com/pandoras-box-myth/ ht...
TRIGGER WARNING - SEXUAL ASSAULT For centuries, Guinevere has been portrayed as a cautionary tale—the woman whose love affair with Lancelot shattered Camelot. But was she truly the villain of the story, or was she a victim of the patriarchal narratives that have shaped her legend? In this episode, we reclaim Guinevere’s agency, exploring her role as a powerful queen, a woman caught between duty and desire. Welcome to the second part of our exploration of Queen Guinevere, where we take a look at ...
For centuries, Guinevere has been portrayed as a cautionary tale—the woman whose love affair with Lancelot shattered Camelot. But was she truly the villain of the story, or was she a victim of the patriarchal narratives that have shaped her legend? In this episode, we reclaim Guinevere’s agency, exploring her role as a powerful queen, a woman caught between duty and desire. Join us in this first part of our exploration of Queen Guinevere as we examine the medieval sources and hear some stories o...
Here's a little announcement to let you all know what I've been cooking up. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ladiesoflore?_t=ZN-8uPUK8OLW7C&_r=1 Patreon will be live from 1st April at: patreon.com/LadiesofLore Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLore Join the Discord! - https://discord.gg/qa6MnJj4zY Follow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok - @ladiesoflore...
From the golden waters of Yoruba mythology to the iconic visuals of Lemonade , Oshun has long been a symbol of love, femininity, and resilience. But how does this powerful goddess connect to Beyoncé’s music, imagery, and artistic evolution? In this episode, we explore the origins and transformations of the Orisha, Oshun and unpack the deep spiritual and cultural ties between Oshun and Queen Bey. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https:...
Disney’s The Princess and the Frog introduced audiences to Tiana, a hardworking dreamer inspired by the real-life culinary legend Leah Chase. In this episode, we start with a brief look at the classic tale before diving into the remarkable story of Leah Chase, her journey from humble beginnings to becoming the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” her impact on New Orleans, and how her life helped shape Disney’s first Black princess. Join us as we explore the legacy of a woman who stirred up more than just...
In this episode, we explore Ala, the powerful Earth Goddess of Igbo mythology. As the guardian of fertility, morality, and the afterlife, Ala plays a central role in Igbo spirituality. Join us as we uncover her significance, sacred shrines, and lasting influence on Igbo traditions. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://phjhds.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/21-Morality-in-Igbo-Cosmology-The-Role-of-Ani-the-Earth-Goddess..pdf https:/...
I am so sorry for the microphone quality not being amazing this episode! Your girl was riding the struggle bus with it this week. Thank you for listening nonetheless! I'm really excited to be highlighting Black mythology all throughout February, this week we're kicking it off by diving into the water and learning all about Mami Wata, the African water deity known for her beauty, generosity and potential for destruction. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentione...
Take a step into the spooky unknown and learn all about the creatures that strike fear into the Philippines, The Aswang. We'll discover some of the many forms of the Aswang, where they came from and how these creatures have endured throughout the ages, adapting to the changing social and political landscape of their homeland. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://www.aswangproject.com/etymology-aswang/ https://www.redditonwiki.com/...
In this episode, we dive into the evolution of Belle, the beloved heroine from Beauty and the Beast. From Roman influence, her origins in 18th-century fairy tales to her portrayal in Disney’s iconic animation and live-action adaptations, we explore how Belle has remained a symbol of curiosity, courage, and compassion. Discover how her character has adapted to reflect changing cultural values, inspiring generations with her love of knowledge and her ability to see beyond appearances. Let us uncov...
We're back with another bad girl of the Bible this week, Jezbel! Is she misunderstood or was she just a bit power hungry and immoral? Come and find out! For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode https://www.gutenberg.org/files/9660/9660-h/9660-h.htm https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jezebel-queen-of-Israel https://jwa.org/encyclopedia/article/jezebel-bible https://lithub.com/who-exactly-was-the-original-jezebel/ https://www.biblicalarchaeolo...
Come and learn all about Amaterasu, the fascinating Japanese Shinto Goddess of the sun. Learn about where she came from and hear tales of her quite dramatic sibling rivalries. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Amaterasu https://mythopedia.com/topics/amaterasu https://www.nippon.com/en/japan-topics/g00748/amaterasu-the-japanese-sun-goddess.html https://www.worldhistory.org/Amaterasu/ https://withaterribl...
Come and find out all about the amazing women of yuletide mythology and folklore in this special festive episode! For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/does-mrs-claus-have-a-life-of-her-own https://daily.jstor.org/santa-and-mrs-claus-and-the-christmas-war-of-the-sexes/ http://museumsonthegreen.org/wp-content/uploads/Goody-Edited.pdf https://www.italiarail.com/culture/legend-la-befana https://www.romaex...
If you thought you knew The Little Mermaid, think again. In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Ariel, we will do a deep dive in to the mind of Hans Christian Andersen, the creator of the original tale, discuss the Disneyfication of The Little Mermaid and examine where she can still be found in modern pop culture. Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://rictornorton.co.uk/andersen.htm https://torontopubliclibrary.typepad.com/arts_culture/2022/06/many-little-mermaids-hans-chri...
In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Mulan, we will read the original Chinese ballad, discuss the Disneyfication of Mulan and examine where she can still be found in modern pop culture. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://classicalpoets.org/2018/09/23/the-ballad-of-mulan-a-rhyming-translation/ https://mulanbook.com/ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hua-Mulan Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/Lad...
In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Sleeping Beauty, a tale far darker and more complex than the enchanted slumber we know today. From ancient myths of cursed maidens to the harrowing origins in folklore, we'll explore how this story evolved through centuries of oral tradition, literature, and cultural transformation. Join us as we peel back the layers of this timeless legend to reveal the secrets hidden in its roots. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool...
If you had the recipe to a highly effective, undetectable poison, how would you use it? To poison the men of course. Check out 2Lives - https://www.2lives.org/ Cool stuff mentioned this episode: https://aspectsofhistory.com/giulia-tofana-power-poison/ https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/giulia-tofana-the-italian-serial-poisoner-who-became-a-legend Support the show Join the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLore Join the Discord! - https://discord.gg/qa6MnJj4zY Follow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.s...
Come and jump into Arthurian Legend and find out all about Arthur's half-sister, Morgan le Fay. Was she truly evil or was she just a girl trying to hold her own in a world of knights and wizards? Cool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Morgan-le-Fay https://kingarthursknights.com/arthurian-characters/morgan-le-fay/ https://theconversation.com/morgan-le-fay-how-arthurian-legend-turned-a-powerful-woman-from-healer-to-villain-109928 Support the show Join the Patreon! ...
