Stories From Now And Then

Magical bedtime stories for the whole family

Join Nicola Ward and Captain Blunderface in the Old Library for classic tales retold with wonder

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Story train at the Old Library
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All Aboard for Story Time! 🚂

Welcome to the Old Library!

Where every story is a grand adventure

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Hey kids!

Nicola Ward and Captain Blunderface at your service! Here in the Old Library, we have some incredible stories to share.

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Timeless Tales

Stories that maybe your parents heard when they were children, or maybe your Granny or Grandpa heard when they were children. Isn't that special?!

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Perfect for Bedtime

Great for bedtime stories, car rides, or just cozy storytime. Gentle, soothing storytelling that helps little minds drift off to dreamland.

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Meet Deprecatus

Our resident library cat who is always getting into trouble! From wearing tiny green hats to making messes with the cushions, there's never a dull moment.

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Old Library crew

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New Episode Every Friday!

Our Story Collection

Classic tales retold with wonder, each one a doorway to adventure

36
Episode 36•13 min

Chytrá Horákyně (Clever Manka), Part 2

We are still in the wily world of Clever Manka! See how everything unfolds since our part one of this story, and how she handles the judge's challenge. Brought to you by the bungling Cap. Blunderface and the ever-suffering Deprecatus of course. Visit us at: storiesfromnowandthen.com Oh, and if you enjoy colouring, Check this out! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GVMQ8ZNR Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 35•10 min 43 sec

Chytrá Horákyně (Clever Manka), Part 1

Nicola takes us into the wily world of Manka and how she navigates some pretty intricate situations. Also a certain *ahem* captain didn't quite make it in time for this one, apparently! Visit us at: storiesfromnowandthen.com Oh, and if you enjoy colouring, Check this out! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GVMQ8ZNR Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 34•19 min

Savannah Bananas!

OR ... The Boy In The Yellow Tuxedo. Follow along for this incredibly fun and zany true story from the Old Library, where Deprecatus can apparently ... bake? Visit us at: storiesfromnowandthen.com Pardon us? Oh, you enjoy colouring? Check this out! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GVMQ8ZNR Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 33•17 min 43 sec

Momotaro, The Peach Boy

Nicola recounts the magical tale of Momotaro, the peach boy! Adapted from the age-old Japanese Folk Tale. Blunderface learns more about cats (doesn't he always?) Visit us at: storiesfromnowandthen.com Pardon us? Oh, you enjoy colouring? Check this out! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GVMQ8ZNR Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 32•16 min 55 sec

The Tortoise and the Hare, And Other Stories

Nicola spins some yarns from Aesop's Fables, such as the Tortoise and the Hare. Some you may know, some not! Meanwhile Deprecatus is getting a bit wordy at the OL. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 31•17 min 52 sec

Sleeping Beauty, Part 2

Tune in to the the magical, wonderful second half of Sleeping Beauty as told by Nicola, with some classic old library repartee between a Captain and a Cat. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 10-20 minutes long, perfect for ages 5-12. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 30•19 min 13 sec

Sleeping Beauty, Part 1

Enjoy an absolute classic fairy tale about a princess, an evil enchantress, and a really long nap, told by Nicola today! Meanwhile Deprecatus presses the "record" button a bit early. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 10-20 minutes long, perfect for ages 5-12. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 29•20 min 42 sec

The Boy Who Became the G.O.A.T.

Nicola takes us to Rosario, Argentina to bring us through the life of Lionel Messi, the soccer (or football) player who because arguably the greatest player ever! Meanwhile we find out a little bit more about Deprecatus. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 10-20 minutes long, perfect for ages 5-12. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 27•16 min 20 sec

East Of The Sun, West Of The Moon

Welcome back to the Old Library with Captain Blunderface and Nicola the storyteller, and Deprecatus too, all sitting around for this classic Nordic folk tale. Meanwhile our Old Library crew marvels at how old the story actually is. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 27•11 min 33 sec

How The Camel Got His Hump

We learned an IMMENSE amount about camels and their origins in this story, narrated by ... Nicola's own dad! Meanwhile at the old library, the captain thinks Deprecatus should write his own story. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: John Craig Host: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 26•14 min 21 sec

The Musicians of Bremen

Welcome, music lovers! Or Animal lovers? This is a classic tale you will both love regardless. Nicola tells us all about a squad of interesting individuals that find a way to band together. Meanwhile, Deprecatus is concerned about spoilers. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 25•16 min 28 sec

The Lady With The Lamp

Join us for a very exciting TRUE story, of a woman who transformed the world of nursing and healthcare; Florence Nightingale, as narrated by Nicola. Meanwhile at the old library, Deprecatus is feeling restless. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 24•15 min 3 sec

The Wind In The Willows, Part 4

Well hello everybody and welcome to the final instalment of Wind In The Willows! An exciting finish I'm sure, for Mole, Toad, Rat, and Badger, and maybe some weasels and stoats along the way. Meanwhile, Deprecatus is taking a bit of a cat nap. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 23•13 min 24 sec

The Wind In The Willows, Part 3

What's going on in the wonderful world of Toad, Mole, Rat, and Badger today? I think a certain character might need a bit more help than usual. Meanwhile, an automatic cat feeder shows up at the Old Library. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 22•12 min 44 sec

The Wind In The Willows, Part 2

Things are getting even more interesting with Rat, Mole, and now Toad and Badger in this beloved story told by Nicola. Meanwhile Captain Blunderface and Deprecatus are getting up to their usual antics. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 21•16 min 51 sec

The Wind In The Willows, Part 1

We've got to do something about Mr. Toad! But first, Rat and Mole kindle an epic friendship. Nicola narrates an adapted version of Kenneth Grahame's classic story. Meanwhile Deprecatus and Captain Blunderface are doing their own spring cleaning. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 20•19 min 19 sec

Banksy, The Secret Artist

Today's true story is all about a mysterious artist known as "Banksy". Nicola unwinds the strange world of Banksy's secrets. Meanwhile, Story Swiftina and Captain Blunderface are divided on Deprecatus' art. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 19•17 min 45 sec

The Reluctant Dragon

"Reluctant", definition: feeling or showing aversion, hesitation, or unwillingness. Basically, not wanting to do something. So ... what is this dragon unwilling to do!? We'll find out in this incredible story told by Nicola. Meanwhile at the Old Library, Captain Blunderface needs help from Deprecatus to solve a new problem. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 18•10 min 27 sec

The Princess and the Goblin, Part 2

Mysterious goblins are up to no good. What can a princess do? We'll find out in today's episode, narrated by Nicola. Meanwhile, Baby Blunderface was so invested in the story, she stuck around the old library to hear the ending. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 17•12 min 16 sec

The Princess and the Goblin, Part 1

A brave young princess discovers a hidden secret in this classic story by George MacDonald.. Meanwhile, there are some multi-generational Blunderface shenanigans at the old library. Hear what happens as told by Nicola, our amazing storyteller. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 16•15 min 58 sec

The Lady Who Lived In A Tree

What made Julia Butterfly Hill live in a tree for 2 years? Find out in this amazing true story told by Nicola. Captain Blunderface and Deprecatus enjoyed Grandpa's visit last week but are just chilling in the treehouse behind the old library. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 15•15 min 7 sec

The Odyssey, Part 3

You've been waiting to hear how the adventure of Odysseus comes to an end, and here it is! Nicola tells us exactly what the rest of his adventure holds. At the old library, Captain Blunderface is joined by a very special guest who is a blast from the past. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 14•14 min 5 sec

The Odyssey, Part 2

We'll have to see what happens to Odysseus in this set of adventures. Does he explore islands? Does he find monsters? Do his men keep up? Nicola guides us through the scary seas and mythical happenings of his journey. Meanwhile back at the old library, there's a book giveaway. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 13•16 min 57 sec

The Odyssey, Part 1

Nicola sets sail with Stories from Now and Then's first multi-part story, of the mythical tale of Odysseus. Meanwhile back at the old library, there are some ringers filling in for the Captain. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 12•15 min 6 sec

The Kindest Neighbour on TV

Nicola shares the incredible true story of Mr. Fred Rogers, and how he shared his life to help children and people around the world. Meanwhile, Deprecatus gets into a sticky situation while making puppets. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 11•17 min 6 sec

The Emperor's New Clothes

What would you do with invisible fabric? We'll find out in today's episode narrated by Nicola. Meanwhile, back at the Old Library, the clothes aren't quite invisible but they seem to have shrunk! Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 10•14 min 39 sec

The Earl Of Attenborough

What if a cat could change your life? Deprecatus loves this story, where Nicola the storyteller takes us back to this classic "Tale" (or Tail!) about a Cat, a King, and some very clever ideas. Meanwhile back at the old library, Captain Blunderface has the whole place to himself... or does he? Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 9•15 min 37 sec

The Girl Who Learned to Fly

This is the true story of Simone Biles, the greatest gymnast to ever live! Hear how Simone became the best to ever do it, brought to you by Nicola the storyteller. Meanwhile, Captain Blunderface and Deprecatus are at odds about the nature of cats. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 8•14 min

Beauty And The Beast

A village girl, a castle, and a mysterious enchanted rose are somehow connected in this classic story, narrated by the amazing Nicola. Meanwhile, Captain Blunderface is slightly scatterbrained and needs some help. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 7•8 min 40 sec

The Endless Tale: A Story For Infinity!

Grasshopers? Locusts? Are they the same? A Story that never ends? A clever storyteller? Hear how these all go together in today's story told by Nicola. Meanwhile, Captain Blunderface is joined by an up-and-coming talented dude. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com nYkx9JoUfsDuhku1pzom

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Episode 6•8 min 46 sec

The Imaginary Feast

A really smart cookie named Schacabac. A rich man named The Barmecide. A very curious feast! See what happens in this classic story told by Nicola. Meanwhile, back at the old library, Deprecatus has some interesting cravings.

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Episode 5•9 min 44 sec

The Outstanding Outlaw

We’ve moved the recording equipment to the treehouse at the back of the Old Library! Nicola takes us deep into Sherwood Forest for the legend of the world’s most famous outlaw. Meanwhile, Captain Blunderface is busy trying to convince a very grumpy cat to wear a tiny green hat for a photoshoot. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 4•8 min 51 sec

King Maximilian And The Goose Boy

There are feathers everywhere in the Old Library! While Captain Blunderface cleans up the mess Deprecatus made of the cushions, Nicola takes us back in time to meet King Maximilian and a very wise goose-herd. It’s a story about wisdom, youth, and how Kings aren't always as smart as you might think. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 3•13 min 33 sec

The Story Of Rapunzel

We’re stacking books to the ceiling today to see who can make the tallest tower. Nicola spins the classic fairytale of Rapunzel, high walls, and very long hair. Stick around to hear what happened with Rapunzel and the Prince! Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 2•10 min 24 sec

Christmas In The Barn

The furnace is broken in the Old Library, so we’re bundling up in our thickest sweaters! Join Nicola for a peaceful holiday tale of farm animals and warmth in a quiet barn. Back at the library, Captain Blunderface and Deprecatus are up to their usual shenanigans. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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Episode 1•11 min 25 sec

How The Whale Got His Throat

Why exactly do whales only eat tiny fish? Today, Nicola tells the classic "Just So Story" of a clever mariner and a whale with a very big appetite. Meanwhile, in the Old Library, Captain Blunderface and Deprecatus the cat are tune in to hear Nicola's rendition. Stories From Now and Then is a short weekly calming kids podcast series of old, new and true stories perfect for bedtime, quiet time, or car rides. Episodes are 8-15 minutes long, and perfect for kids (or kids at heart) ages 5-10. Narrator: Nicola Ward Captain Blunderface: Evan Wiebe Stories From Now and Then is Produced by Ocorda Sound, ocorda.com

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“Oh gosh, this is so wonderfully, beautifully mad in the best possible ways!”
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Meet Your Storytellers

Nicola Craig

Nicola Ward

The Storyteller

With a voice as warm as a cozy blanket, Nicola brings classic tales to life with wonder and magic. Her gentle storytelling style is perfect for little listeners.

Evan Wiebe

Evan Wiebe

Captain Blunderface

The lovable, slightly chaotic host who runs the Old Library alongside Deprecatus the cat. Always getting into silly adventures between stories!

Real-life cousins bringing stories to families around the world! 🌍

Ready for Story Time?

Gather round, get cozy, and let the adventure begin!

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