The Apple Seed

Latest Episodes:

Bound by Honor - Stories for the Whole Family by Willy Claflin and Geraldine Buckley Aug 13, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about courage, integrity, and the challenges that come from earning and keeping your sense of honor. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:25) "Ka’ulu the Strong" by Willy Claflin. A powerful folktale about family, strength, and perseverance as an elder brother uses his incredible strength to travel to a distant island and rescue his brother. (11:47) "Test of Honor" by Sam Payne. Sam shares his insights on courage, honor, and learning to help ourselves in times of peril after revisiting the beloved childhood classic, "Prince Caspian" by C.S. Lewis. (14:33) "The Three Axes" by Geraldine Buckley. A timeless tale about a humble woodcutter who faces a powerful temptation to abandon his honor and integrity in exchange for unimaginable riches. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

When Wishes Go Wrong - Stories for the Whole Family by Mara Menzies and Donna Washington Aug 06, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about being careful what you wish for, overcoming unexpected challenges, and finding hope and wisdom in difficult situations. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:46) "How Fire Came Into the World" by Mara Menzies. An African folktale about a man determined to bring fire to his village, only to discover that the gift he wished for carries unexpected dangers and powerful consequences. (18:04) "Kitten Commotion" by Sam Payne. Sam shares the heartwarming and humorous story of how he and his family learned valuable lessons about responsibility, patience, and unexpected surprises after making their wish come true by adopting three playful kittens. (20:47) "Frog's King" by Donna Washington. A humorous pourquoi tale about a group of determined frogs whose persistence earns them exactly what they wished for but at a surprising cost. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

Crooked Roads - Stories for the Whole Family by Andy Offutt Irwin and Dovie Thomason Jul 30, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about slowing down, embracing life's unexpected detours, and discovering the opportunities that come from taking a different path. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:15) "Tallulah Point" by Andy Offutt Irwin. A humorous story about Andy’s fictional but eccentric Aunt Margarite and the journey that reconnects her with a meaningful place from her childhood. (10:03) "Allowance for Meandering" by Sam Payne. Sam shares the heartfelt story of an unexpected moment of connection with his dad that led to a new favorite movie, a memorable school tardy slip, and a lasting lesson about taking time for life's unexpected detours. (13:19) "Frog and Turtle" by Dovie Thomason. A short but charming fable about how two unlikely best friends choose to avoid the incoming rain. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

Believe in Yourself - Stories for the Whole Family by Antonio Rocha and Jasmin Cardenas Jul 23, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about building confidence, finding courage, and discovering the power that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (02:05) "The Eagle Who Thought He was a Chicken" by Antonio Rocha. An inspirational story about a young eagle discovering its true potential and finding the courage to become who it was meant to be. (11:21) "Musical Mentors" by Sam Payne. Sam reflects on the inspiring music teachers and mentors who shaped his journey, sharing how their encouragement helped him believe in himself and grow into the musician and storyteller he is today. (14:18) "Rug Rats: How I Found My Superpower" by Jasmin Cardenas. A heartwarming coming-of-age story about Jasmin’s childhood improv group and how it helped shape her confidence, creativity, and journey to becoming the storyteller she is today. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Stories for the Whole Family by Antonio Sacre, Willy Claflin and Paul Strickland Jul 16, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the silly and unexpected adventures that often come with matters of the heart. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:21) "Martina the Butterfly" by Antonio Sacre. A charming Spanish fairy tale about a butterfly’s search for true love and the unexpected chaos that follows when she finds it. (07:55) "How to Pack" by Sam Payne. Sam shares a heartfelt family story about the marriage advice he received from his Aunt Annie and the unforgettable metaphor she used to explain the secrets of a lasting relationship. (11:08) "Rapunzel and the Seven Dwarfs" by Willy Claflin. A reimagined fairy tale about the humorous complications and unexpected twists that arise when love enters the picture, told by Willy’s friend, Maynard the Moose. (22:27) "I Love You with All of My Pancreas" by Paul Strickland. A heartfelt and hilarious song about the all-consuming nature of love and the silly ways it can be expressed. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

A Gift for Mischief - Stories for the Whole Family by Lyn Ford and Donald Davis Jul 09, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about discovering hidden talents, learning through mistakes, and using gifts in an effective way. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:12) "My First Story" by Lyn Ford. A humorous childhood story about the moment Lyn discovered her natural talent for storytelling after getting in trouble. (09:02) "Mastering the Craft" by Sam Payne. Sam reflects on watching his daughter’s creativity and talent for crafting grow and flourish over the years. (11:58) "Getting Rid of the Babysitter" by Donald Davis. An amusing true story about the night a young Donald and his little brother used their gift for mischief in an attempt to prove they were too old for a babysitter. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson, and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle and Dallin Nielson.

Bargaining with God - Stories for the Whole Family by Mara Menzies and Simon Brooks Jul 02, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about how combining wit and willingness can help you achieve the things you want most. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:02) "God and Time" by Mara Menzies. A fascinating creation folktale exploring how it was decided how long humans and animals would live on earth. (09:41) "Heaven's Help" by Sam Payne. Sam shares a heartfelt personal story about how a simple act of faith from his young son helped their family navigate a crowded situation and became an inspiring lesson about hope, trust, and divine help that they would remember for years to come. (12:17) "Ananse Finds Stories" by Simon Brooks. A humorous and imaginative African folktale about the legendary trickster Ananse the Spider and his clever quest to bring stories into the world. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Gracie Davis Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle, Aaron Findlay.

Mending the Heart - Stories for the Whole Family by Noa Baum and Pippa White Jun 25, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the joys and hardships of life and the ways both can shape our hearts for the better. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:51) "The Hour of the Doves" by Noa Baum. A touching and heartfelt story about the small but meaningful ways Noa’s grandmother helped her connect with their family’s religious traditions and heritage. (16:30) "An Influence of Faith" by Sam Payne. A story about the influence a community of Hassidic Jews had on his brother's faith journey. (19:40) "Lee Nailing's Orphan Train Story" by Pippa White. A sweet and moving rhyming tale about a young boy who reluctantly journeys across the country on an orphan train in search of a new family and a place to belong. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle, Aaron Findlay, and Pasen Michaelson.

Finding Wisdom in Unlikely Places - Stories for the Whole Family by Kim Weitkamp and Kevin Kling Jun 18, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the joy, wisdom, and life lessons discovered in the most unexpected places. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:26) "Gold Coins" by Kim Weitkamp. A touching and insightful story about Kim’s experience discovering unexpected wisdom and human connection through conversations with customers in her yarn shop. (14:08) "Lunch with Strangers" by Sam Payne. Sam shares a heartfelt story about a friend’s experience getting to know strangers and finding meaningful connections in a new city. (16:50) "Ashen Peter" by Kevin Kling. A humorous folktale about a young man dismissed as a fool by his community who surprises everyone when he earns the respect of the king. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle, Aaron Findlay, and Pasen Michaelson.

The Wonder of Nature - Stories for the Whole Family by Antonio Sacre and Bil Lepp Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

Gather your family for great stories from great storytellers about the inspiring, healing, and connecting power of nature. (00:00) Introduction by host Sam Payne. (01:20) "World's Second Best Dad" by Antonio Sacre. A humorous and relatable story about Antonio’s unforgettable experience when taking his family on a whale watching expedition. (12:26) "Little Moment in the Big City" by Sam Payne. Sam shares a touching personal story about an unexpected emotional experience during his first visit to New York City. (15:50) "Yosemite Falls Trail" by Bil Lepp. A funny and adventurous hiking story about Bil’s climb up the famous Yosemite Falls Trail, where he encounters plenty of obstacles on the journey to a breathtaking scenic view. Stories bring us together and the stories on The Apple Seed will spark memories that you can share with the people you love. The Apple Seed is a storytelling podcast by BYUradio and is hosted by Sam Payne. The Apple Seed is produced by Sam Payne, Wendy Folsom, and Brian Tanner. Assistant Producers - Matthew Carr, Madie Clasby, Keri Griggs, Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell Production - Trent Reimschussel and Kip Merrill Post Production Video Editors - Trent Woolford and Tremiti Childs. Post-Production Audio Engineers - Dan Carlisle, Aaron Findlay, and Pasen Michaelson.

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