African Folktales with Miss Jo Jo
African Folktales with Miss Jo Jo is a Webby Award-winning children's podcast that presents diverse short stories originating from Africa, traditionally passed down through generations orally. These tales are retold with a modern twist, offering both entertainment and moral or survival lessons. The podcast aims to preserve and share African cultural heritage with a global audience.
Episodes
Motiratika
Today our magic jeep visits a couple and their dog from a faraway land! Make sure to listen closely for the bell. The bell will ring when I say the “Magic Word of the Story.” Listen all the way to the end to discover if you guessed it correctly, and have fun!
The Goat and Her Young Ones
Today our magic jeep takes us to visit a Mother Goat and her kids, who live in a beautiful house right by the mountains. When Mother Goat needs to gather grass, she leaves the young ones at home and warns them not to open the door for anyone who doesn’t know her special song. But when sneaky Hyena figures it out, what happens next? Tune in to find out!
How Tomatoes First Grew
Today our magic jeep brings us to a land where everyone seems to have bad luck. No matter how hard they try to get rid of it, nothing works! It will take the smart thinking of a group of ants to break the cycle. How will they manage to do it?
Why The Lizard Continually Moves His Head Up and Down
Today our magic jeep visits our friend Hyena, who is determined to win the Queen’s special prize – a magical flute that plays on its own! The only problem is that in order to do so, he must find out what the secret phrase is. How will Hyena figure it out? Come along on our adventure to see what he thinks of!
The Hawks and the Crows
Today our magic jeep travels back to a time when crows and hawks played together. We’ll meet Koongoo′roo, the captain of the crows, and Mway′way, leader of the hawks. When the two sides are caught up in a game of steal-the-bottlecap, the crows realize there are far too many hawks to defeat. Clever Koongoo′roo must then come up with a way for his team to win. What does he have planned? Join Miss Jo
The Daughter of the Sword
Today our magic jeep travels to a distant kingdom, where we’ll meet a spoiled princess named Hadiza. After she demands more and more gold from her father, trouble arises when the king’s warriors steal gold from a terrible monster. It’s up to Hadiza to make things right again…but will she succeed? Listen to find out what happens next!
Don't Shake Hands With Everybody
Today we are bubbling our way to Frogs farm! We see how a kind act went too far. Find out how one frog got so excited to say thank you to everyone that it backfired. Is it better to sometimes work smarter than harder?
Why the Moon and the Stars Receive their Light from the Sun
Today our magic jeep visits Father Anansi and his son Keku, who have a very scary encounter with a dragon! When it snatches them away and locks them up in its castle, the clever Keku must find a way to save everyone. What will his plan be?
Why the Warthog Gets Around on His Knees
Today our magic jeep takes us to where a Warthog has built a nice big house. But the Warthog sees the Lion from one of our old stories and he becomes very scared. The Warthog runs into his home and decides to try out an old trick he heard from the Jackal, not knowing that the Lion has a very good memory. In this story, I will teach you why the Warthog likes to be on the ground!
A Good Fortune in Camels
Today our magic jeep takes us to where a man named Ali wishes to set out and earn a fortune for him and his wife. After some work, Ali has enough money to buy two camels. But he soon ends up giving away his camels for some valuable advice from the fortune teller. Will this advice end up paying off for Ali? Miss JoJo is here to let you know!
Younde Goes To Town
Today our magic jeep takes us to Accra! We follow a young man who learns about a mysterious person. Yonde goes on a long adventure and learns some valuable lessons along the way. Is having all the money in the world really that important. Can money buy happiness?
The Baboon Chief
Today our magic jeep visits Chief Zewdu and his sister Fana, who live deep in the savanna with a group of baboons. Despite being the leader, Zewdu notices the other monkeys bossing each other around! Join us on our adventure to find out how Zewdu and Fana bring order to this rowdy bunch!
The Man and the Sheep
Today our magic jeep brings us to a small town, where we meet Magala the tailor and his son, Jabulani! The young boy is given a pet sheep by his father…which soon starts talking! Jabulani tries telling his father, but Magala won’t believe him. What happens next? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
IMANI
IMANI - FAITH - to believe with all our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
Kwanzaa Time with Aunti Oni series ends by highlighting the 7th principle of IMANI, Faith. Based on a Native American folktale, a loving Grandfather teaches his grandchildren the importance of having faith in yourself and making the right choices.
KUUMBA
Description: UJIMA: KUUMBA - CREATIVITY, to always do as much as we can, in any way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
Aunti Oni shares her creativity with her poem “Kwanzaa All The Time” Aunti invites kids to show off their creativity and rap along with her. ! To create their own poem about Kwanzaa and a shout out for everyone to practice t
NIA
NIA - PURPOSE, to make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.
Listeners get a glimpse into the learning experience of little Nia Wilhemina on day 5 of Kwanzaa Time! Nia learns the ‘purpose’ of her name and how the determination of other African Americans shaped many inventions we use today.
UJAMAA
UJAMAA - COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS - to build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
Listeners will experience the true story of a businesswoman, Maggie Lena Walker.,1864-1934 Miss Walker was the first African American owner of a bank, newspaper, and department store in Richmond, Virginia. Enjoy learning about this trailblazer of cooperative economic
UJIMA
UJIMA: COLLECTIVE WORK & RESPONSIBILITY - to build and maintain our community together and make our sister's and brother's problems our problems and to solve them together.
In this episode of Kwanzaa Time! w Aunti Oni travels to North Philly where young brother Kai practices UJIMA, the 3rd principle of Kwanzaa. His first haircut changes his life, and in the process, he learns of being responsible
KUJICHAGULIA
KUJICHAGULIA-SELF DETERMINATION, to define ourselves, speak for ourselves, instead of being defined and spoken for by others.
Day 2 of Kwanzaa Time! continues with the story of Kuji. A young man whose attitude of determination and willingness to serve others, won the respect of his teacher, and his classmates.
STORY CREDIT: KUJI'S CHOICE - by Oni Lasana
UMOJA
UMOJA - UNITY, to strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.
This delightful Day 1 of Kwanzaa Time! Aunti Oni tells of Mr. Anthologist, who travels from North America to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe to learn the ways of the people. But what Mr. Anthologists learned was a lesson - in sharing, caring, and unity.
STORY CREDIT: UBUNTU! South African folktale, adapted by Oni Lasa
Younde Goes To Town
Today our magic jeep takes us to Accra! We follow a young man who learns about a mysterious person. Yonde goes on a long adventure and learns some valuable lessons along the way. Is having all the money in the world really that important. Can money buy happiness?
The Magic Wand in the Pot of Butter
Today our magic jeep introduces us to a man named Chidi, who owns a magic wand that can transport him anywhere! When a neighbor ends up borrowing it without asking, it’s up to Chidi and his friend Baako to get it back. What plan will they come up with? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
Clever Jackal Gets Away
Today our magic jeep takes us to a land with a very clever and smart Jackal. One day when the Jackal was moving through the land he came across a great Lion! The Jackal was scared for his life, he thought the Lion might eat him. So our clever and smart Jackal devised a plan to trick the Lion. Will it work? Listen and find out!
Why the Moon and the Stars Receive their Light from the Sun
Today our magic jeep visits Father Anansi and his son Keku, who have a very scary encounter with a dragon! When it snatches them away and locks them up in its castle, the clever Keku must find a way to save everyone. What will his plan be?
The Lightning and the Thunder
Today our magic jeep takes us deep into the night! We go into the sky and follow the story of Lightning and the Thunder. A long, long time ago the Thunder and Lightning lived on the earth with all the other people. So how did they end up in the sky? Listen and find out!
The Sky God's Well
Today our magic jeep is cruising through a forest! We follow a frog who seems nice and innocent. It is said that once in the old days, the frog was teased by other animals of the forest because she had no tail. She was deeply embarrassed, so she went to the sky god to see if a tail could be given to her. Will it work out? Listen and find out!
The Monkey Who Was Made King
Today our magic jeep takes us to a special Kingdom to find out about a monkey who did everything he could to be made the King! Were all the animals happy the monkey became the King? Find out which animal was not very happy about this at all!
The Magic Pot
A long time ago there lived an old woman who had the best chicken soup in the market. People would come from all over the land to try this incredible soup. One person that enjoyed it more than the rest was a small boy who came up with a plan to get even more soup to eat. Will his plan work? Or will trying to get more to eat hurt everyone else who wants to enjoy the delicious soup.
The Contest Between Fire and Rain
Today our magic jeep brings to a princess who is due to be married. The only problem is that she has fallen in love with two strong men. One of them is called Fire and the other is called Rain. Both men must pull out all the stops to win the princess’s heart. Who will win the contest between Fire and Rain?
The Porcupines Shovel
Today our magic jeep takes us to learn about a special shovel that’s one of a kind. In the beginning, there was only one shovel in the world, and men worked their fields with a knife. Today we learn a very special lesson about all the great inventions in our community. But always make sure not to take advantage of the situation!
Story sourced from Harold Courlander
The Goat and Her Young Ones
New episodes come out every Wednesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers.
Today our magic jeep takes us to visit a Mother Goat and her kids, who live in a beautiful house right by the mountains. When Mother Goat needs to gather grass, she leaves the young ones at home and warns them not to open the door for anyone who doesn’t know her special song. But when sneaky Hyena fig
Why the Sun and the Moon Live in the Sky
Today our magic jeep takes us to a dispute between the sun and the water! Many years ago the sun and water were great friends, and both lived on the earth together. So how did their fight impact the way we see the sun and moon today? Listen and find out!
The Grasshopper and the Toad
Today our magic jeep arrives in a place where the Grasshopper and the Toad are best friends. That is until they invite each other over for dinner and realize that there are some annoying things they dislike about each other. Can they find common ground as friends, or will the friendship come to an end?
The Boy and the Drum
Today our magic jeep takes us to where a boy named Afi wishes to go hunting. But when it begins to rain, he asks the tortoise for shelter. This results in Afi getting stuck on a drum. The tortoise then carries the drum to the village for a drumming competition. Can the tortoise win with his special drum?
The Longest Story in The World
Today our magic jeep takes us to a place where there's a chief who loves good stories. Just like you! But this chief issues a challenge for someone to tell him the longest story ever. Nobody thinks this is possible, until a young storyteller named Mo shows up. Does Mo really know the longest story in the world?
Introducting Five Minute Mysteries w/ Kiddy Casey!
Hello my little ones! We've got some exciting news for you. Take a listen to my good friend Kiddy Casey and her brand new show Five Minute Mysteries. Listen in as Kiddy Casey investigates ALL of life’s mysteries. That means everything from ancient puzzles, to creepy cryptid encounters, and mind-boggling science secrets. No matter how big or wild the mystery may be, Kiddy Casey is always on the cas
The Tortoise and the Elephant
Today our magic jeep brings us to a village where animals can speak like humans! When the good Queen gets sick one day, it’s up to clever Tortoise to save the day. But how will she manage to convince proud Elephant to help them out?
A Goat and Her Daughter
Today our magic jeep brings us to where a goat is traveling with her daughter. But as they travel there are many dangers. Other animals want to eat them. The goat decides to teach her daughter a nice trick to scare away the wicked predators. Come and hear how the goat and her daughter ended up together safely!
Why the Bat Is Ashamed to Be Seen in the Daytime
Today our magic jeep arrives in a place where a bat is going on a journey to visit his father-in-law, but he needs help to carry all of his things. The mother sheep agrees to let her young lamb journey with the bat, but the bat isn’t too kind to his young companion. The mother lamb seeks the advice of the tortoise, and the tortoise decides to teach the bat a lesson he’ll never forget.
Farmer Mybrow and the Fairies
Today our magic jeep journeys to a magical field! We’ll meet a new friend, Farmer Mybrow, who runs into a group of woodland fairies. As Mybrow sets off to work, his new fairy pals are more than eager to help out. But what happens when Mybrow’s daughter goes against her father’s warnings? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
The Story of The Hero Makoma
Today our magic jeep brings us to a town near the Zambezi River, where we meet the mighty hero, Makoma! On his journey, Makoma befriends a friendly giant and flame-spirit who lend him their powers. But when he’s captured by the fearsome Mau-giri, will those powers be enough to escape? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
The Magic Crocodile
Today our magic jeep takes us to where a magic crocodile lives in a cave among other animals. When a hunter comes to the cave, he tries to catch the crocodile, but when he raises his bow, something remarkable happens. Find out how exactly the crocodile prevents the hunters from entering the cave.
How Tomatoes First Grew
Today our magic jeep brings us to a land where everyone seems to have bad luck. No matter how hard they try to get rid of it, nothing works! It will take the smart thinking of a group of ants to break the cycle. How will they manage to do it?
The Story Of Walu The Blacksmith
Today our magic jeep takes us to a kingdom where a cruel king gives Walu the impossible task of creating a living, breathing man. Walu is scared of what the king will do when he cannot finish his task, until he crosses paths with the local madman. Can Walu pull off the impossible? Or will he need some help?
Anansi and the Magic Stone
Today our magic jeep brings us to the village where Anansi and his cousin Kofi live! Anansi suspects Kofi is keeping a secret from him, yet Kofi refuses to tell. What secret is Kofi hiding, and how will Anansi get the answer? Listen to find out!
A Message from Miss Jo Jo
Listen to your favorite folktales anywhere you go! Have a great summer!
The Magic Lute
Today our magic jeep ventures into a village, where we meet Chief Marailane and his magic lute! Because the instrument is his prized possession, all his children must be careful around it. When his daughter, Lielie, accidentally breaks the lute, she must find a way to get it repaired…before her father notices. Will she be able to succeed? Join Miss Jo Jo on her latest adventure to find out!
New e
How the Turtle Outwitted the Pig
Today our magic jeep takes us to a lively dance party, where we’ll meet Mrs. Turtle! While dancing the night away, Mrs. Turtle finds herself targeted by her jealous neighbor, Mrs. Pig. After discovering Mrs. Pig’s plans, Mrs. Turtle and her husband decide to turn the tables on their tricky neighbor. How will they do it? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for
The Daughter of the Sword
Today our magic jeep travels to a distant kingdom, where we’ll meet a spoiled princess named Hadiza. After she demands more and more gold from her father, trouble arises when the king’s warriors steal gold from a terrible monster. It’s up to Hadiza to make things right again…but will she succeed? Listen to find out what happens next!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early
The Frog and the Princess
Today our magic jeep takes us to a distant kingdom, where a princess named Shani is separated from her mother and father. When she’s found by a mysterious Frog-King years later, the princess must decide whether or not to trust him. What will Shani do? Will the Frog-King be able to help her find her parents? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week earl
The Bad Boy
Today our magic jeep travels to a small village, where we’ll meet a young boy named Kweku Bah-Boni who is infamous for his tricks! After pranking everyone in his village, he decides to trick a group of kind-hearted animals who take him in. What will happen to them? Will Kweku ever learn his lesson? Tune in to follow Miss Jojo and see what happens!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with
The Lost Beads
Today our magic jeep travels to a mysterious riverbank, where a young girl named Njeri is tricked into throwing away her favorite beads. On her journey to find them, Njeri stumbles upon a hut belonging to a fearsome giant named Dimo. Will she be able to find her beads and escape in time? Join Miss Jo Jo to see what happens next!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early acce
Effiong and His Friends
Today our magic jeep travels to the beautiful country of Nigeria, where we’ll meet a fisherman named Effiong. After spending all his money on expensive foods and drinks, Effiong soon realizes he’s in trouble. To make matters worse, he can’t seem to catch anything on his fishing trips! Will his friends be able to help out? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, w
The Buffalo Maiden
Today our magic jeep travels to the Mabira Forest, where a young girl named Namazzi finds herself separated from her family. To soothe the child’s loneliness, the animals decide to get rid of her emotions with a magic potion – only for things to go terribly wrong! Will Namazzi be able to find her family again and restore her emotions? Join Miss Jo Jo to see what happens next!
New episodes come ou
The Hawks and the Crows
Today our magic jeep travels back to a time when crows and hawks played together. We’ll meet Koongoo′roo, the captain of the crows, and Mway′way, leader of the hawks. When the two sides are caught up in a game of steal-the-bottlecap, the crows realize there are far too many hawks to defeat. Clever Koongoo′roo must then come up with a way for his team to win. What does he have planned? Join Miss Jo
The Man and the Sheep
Today our magic jeep brings us to a small town, where we meet Magala the tailor and his son, Jabulani! The young boy is given a pet sheep by his father…which soon starts talking! Jabulani tries telling his father, but Magala won’t believe him. What happens next? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers. L
The Moon-Child
Today our magic jeep brings us to a village, where we meet a special Chief named Bulane! He has a special mark on his shoulder that symbolizes his right to rule. When his son is born with the same mark, Bulane’s sister grows jealous of the baby and tries to hide him. How will Bulane find his son, and what happens to his sister? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for
Why Ants Carry Bundles
Today our magic jeep takes us to visit our old friend Anansi, who seeks the help of a magic mushroom in order to create rain for his dry farmlands. But when Anansi accidentally destroys the magic, he’s left fearing the consequences. How will he wiggle his way out of trouble this time? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for
How the Animals Dug Their Well
Today our magic jeep takes us to a faraway land, where we’ll meet Masego the Lioness and her animal friends. A drought leaves them without water, so Masego suggests they build a new well. Everyone plans to help except Shulo the Hare. How will the other animals convince him to pitch in? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam
How the Fox Saved the Frog's Life
Today our magic jeep takes us to a small town owned by a Frog, who decides to go out and buy some fancy clothes. But on his way to Mboma Village, Frog gets caught in trouble that only Fox can get him out of. What plan will clever Fox come up with? Tag along with Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers. Loved this episod
The Ungrateful Man
Today our magic jeep takes us to Ghana, where we’ll meet a young man named Abam! After stumbling upon a large pit, he discovers a leopard, serpent, rat, and a man named Dodzi trapped within. Once Abam helps them escape, he quickly finds himself trapped in a sticky situation. What happens to Abam next, and who helps out? Tag along with Miss JoJo to learn more!
New episodes come out every Tuesday fo
The Elephant That Wanted to Dance
Today our magic jeep visits the beautiful country of Uganda, where we’ll be meeting a young elephant who lives in the Mabira Forest. Upon seeing Hare dance at a party, Elephant decides that he too, wants to become a dancer! But since Elephant’s hind legs weigh him down, dancing proves to be a difficult task. How will he succeed? Listen to find out what happens next!
New episodes come out every Tu
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Marsai Martin
In our final episode, meet a young actress who's making way in front of and behind the camera.
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Hansel Emmanuel
Get to know an athlete who is defying the odds after a childhood accident.
Farmer Mybrow and the Fairies
Today our magic jeep journeys to a magical field! We’ll meet a new friend, Farmer Mybrow, who runs into a group of woodland fairies. As Mybrow sets off to work, his new fairy pals are more than eager to help out. But what happens when Mybrow’s daughter goes against her father’s warnings? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fa
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Grace Moore
Hear about the groundbreaking composer who's changing the face of classical music.
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Amanda Gorman
Learn about a poet whose words are speaking up for the next generation.
The Queen of Pigeons
Today our magic jeep travels to a small village, where we meet a young girl named Kaya. She soon finds herself in trouble when a flock of pigeons take her away. Now stuck working as the Pigeon-King’s chef, Kaya must find a way to escape. How will she get away? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers.
Loved this ep
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Jakhil Jackson & Mikalia Ulmer
Listen to the stories of 2 young entrepreneurs who are building their businesses while giving back.
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Jay’Aina Patton
Hear how one young person is blazing a trail for others in technology.
Why Spider Hides in the Dark
Today our magic jeep visits our old friend Spider, who is up to no good! After lying to his brother about working on a farm, Spider is faced with a problem when he suddenly asks for proof. Will he be able to wiggle his way out of this sticky situation, or will his actions catch up to him? Join Miss Jo Jo to find out!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF F
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Dasia Taylor
Learn about a young innovator who's changing the world of medicine.
The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers- Mari Copeny & Aalayah Eastmond
In this first episode, we're putting a spotlight on 2 activists who are using their voices to make a difference in the world.
The Handkerchief
Today our magic jeep travels to a faraway land, where a wise girl named Zakia earns the king’s attention. After becoming his advisor, Zakia must find a way to save the king when he finds himself in a sticky situation. Join Miss Jo Jo to see what happens next!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers.
Loved this episode??? Be sure to let us know
Trailer: The Power of Us
Starting February 2nd, join historian Toya Coleman, as she highlights Black youth making an impact in the world. Check out The Power of Us: Celebrating Young Black Pioneers every Thursday and Saturday during the month of February
A Message from Miss Jo Jo
Great news everyone! African Folktales is coming back with new, exciting adventures that are waiting for you just around the corner! Come join the amazing Ms. JoJo on February 1st for a new season! As we get ready for the big day, be sure to check out our previous journeys in Ms. Jojo’s magical jeep!
New episodes come out every Tuesday for free, with 1-week early access for ABF Fam subscribers.
IMANI
IMANI - FAITH - to believe with all our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
Kwanzaa Time with Aunti Oni series ends by highlighting the 7th principle of IMANI, Faith. Based on a Native American folktale, a loving Grandfather teaches his grandchildren the importance of having faith in yourself and making the right choices.
KUUMBA
UJIMA: KUUMBA - CREATIVITY, to always do as much as we can, in any way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
Aunti Oni shares her creativity with her poem “Kwanzaa All The Time” Aunti invites kids to show off their creativity and rap along with her. ! To create their own poem about Kwanzaa and a shout out for everyone to practice the principles
NIA
NIA - PURPOSE, to make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.
Listeners get a glimpse into the learning experience of little Nia Wilhemina on day 5 of Kwanzaa Time! Nia learns the ‘purpose’ of her name and how the determination of other African Americans shaped many inventions we use today.
For more from A
UJAMAA
UJAMAA- COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS - to build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
Listeners will experience the true story of a businesswoman, Maggie Lena Walker.,1864-1934 Miss Walker was the first African American owner of a bank, newspaper, and department store in Richmond, Virginia. Enjoy learning about this trailblazer of cooperative economic
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