Orisha University Podcast

Storytime # 47- She Prayed to the Iyami Feb 11, 2026 00:06:13 After the death of her mother, the oldest daughter of the Senior wife of the King of Ile Ife only wants to claim what is righfully hers. Her mother's beads. However, her younger sisters have other plans. References Iba Se Orisa- Awo Falokun Fatunmbi

When Destiny Calls: Understanding the Power of Your Ori Nov 19, 2025 00:42:50 In this episode of Storytime with The Ashé Shop, we’re diving deep into the sacred mystery of Ori. The divine inner head that chooses our destiny long before we take our first breath. Through storytelling, reflection, and a touch of that Ashé Shop humor, Ashley guides you into the ancient wisdom behind why your path is uniquely yours… even when life feels messy, uncertain, or downright chaotic.Yo

Storytime #46- How to Choose a Good Ori Nov 18, 2025 00:09:23 Storytime #46- How to Choose a Good OriWhen Orisanku (son of Ogun), Oritemere (son of Ija), and Afuwape (son of Orunmila) decide it's time for them to travel from Orun to Aye, they know that they must go to Ajala's workshop to choose their Ori. Do they make the right choice?References:Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other DeitiesBrown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stori

Storytime #45 - A Chosen Ori is Irrevocable Nov 7, 2025 00:04:52 In this episode of Storytime with The Ashé Shop, we dive into the powerful Yoruba pataki that reveals what happens before we are born, when each soul chooses its Ori—its personal divinity and destiny. This ancient story reminds us that while life may twist, turn, and hit unexpected detours, the Ori we select is final and unwavering. We can pray to the Orisha, call on our ancestors, and negotiate w

Storytime #44 - The Wife who asked too many Questions. Jun 27, 2025 00:10:49 What happened when Ode's wife continued to ask questions, despite his best efforts to give her the answers. She just kept asking. Does this story sound familiar?References:Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of IfáCuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other DeitiesLele,Ochani . Teachings of the Santería Gods: The Spirit of the Odu (p. 174). (Function). Kindle

Storytime #43 - The Sterility of Oba Jun 26, 2025 00:06:00 Oba and Shango had a few problems in their marriage. Can they solve this problem? Tell us what you thought about this story.Reference: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

Storytime #42- The Creation of Copulation Jun 12, 2025 00:07:17 This story givesus insight into how nature began to take its course. You know the birds and the bees...References:Lele, Ochani . Teachings of the Santería Gods: The Spirit of the Odu. Kindle Edition.

Affirmations for the Angry Black Woman May 30, 2025 00:09:00 They call us angry like it’s an insult. But in this episode, we reclaim that fire. These 60 affirmations are a sacred offering for every Black woman who’s been told she’s too loud, too bold, too emotional. You’ll hear powerful words rooted in ancestral wisdom and guided by the Orisha...Yemaya, Oshun, Oya, and Oba Nani.This is not about silencing your rage...it’s about honoring it, healing through

Olokun the Owner of Secrets May 8, 2025 00:30:07 In this episode of Orisha University, we explore the mysterious and powerful Orisha Olokun — guardian of the ocean's depths and keeper of the subconscious mind. Discover how Olokun represents mental health, hidden truths, and emotional balance. Through story, symbolism, and spiritual insight, we unravel the lessons Olokun offers about ego, illusion, and inner healing.References:Brown, David H.

Storytime #41- The Daughters of Olokun May 7, 2025 00:10:21 Olokun had 5 daughters with Olosá and four daughters with Oloná. And another daughter named Aganá Erí. With Olosá (Owner of Lagoons possible path of Nana Buruku)Omí Losá OrukoOmí Losá LashéOmí Losá BokúnOmí Losá OrunOmí Losá FoshéWith Oloná (ancient river Orisha)Omí Loná OrukuOmí Loná LashéOmí Loná BokúnOmí Loná OrunReference:Brown,David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

Storytime # 40- Iboru, Iboye, Ibosise Apr 24, 2025 00:06:54 Ever wonder why practitioners greet each other by saying Iboru, Iboye, Ibosise? Well this pataki gives some insight into the saying and meaning!Reference: Jones,Nia - Morgan Oşun Yami. Merindilogun Folktales: Morals of yoruba Odus Relating Today's Lifestyles Volume 1- Ogunda Meji

Storytime #39- Orunmila's Journey Apr 24, 2025 00:06:54 Orunmila Decides to create something important before leaving to learn to divine. After greeting him warmly and showing him great hospitality will they accept when he has to leave behind. Let me know what you think about this story! Reference:Jones, Nia - Morgan Oşun Yami. Merindilogun Folktales: Morals of yoruba Odus Relating Today's Lifestyles Volume 1

Welcome to Orisha University Apr 13, 2025 00:27:25 Ashe ashe ashe! We're back and transformed. Welcome to Season 2 of the Orisha University Podcast—formerly known as the Ashe Shop Podcast.In this kickoff episode, Ashley, your Orisha Storyteller and spiritual guide, reintroduces the podcast with a new name, renewed energy, and a deeper intention. Orisha University is your weekly study hall for spiritual growth, ancestral wisdom, and cultural co

Embracing Oya Yansan Jan 8, 2025 00:33:09 This episode takes a deep dive into the Orisha Oya Yansan, lets discuss her relationship with the cemetery, transformation, and the other Orisha. References Oní Yemayá, Mariela Albán; Oni Shango, R.E. Avendano. ORISHAS, Yoruba Kings in the Lucumi Tradition Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities Mason. John. Orisa: New World Black Gods

Affirmations for a Healing Heart Dec 10, 2024 00:12:00 In this episode, we offer healing affirmations designed to guide you through grief and depression with compassion and hope. These affirmations are crafted to help you reconnect with your inner strength, honor your emotions, and embrace the journey of healing. Whether you're navigating loss, heavy emotions, or seeking peace, let these words remind you that transformation is possible, and you’re nev

Storytime #38- Oshun Falls in Love with Shango Sep 20, 2024 00:05:01 This story Never gets old. Does this story sound familiar to you?

Storytime #37 - Oshun Becomes Jealous of Oya Sep 20, 2024 00:06:35 I understand a little jealousy between sisters, but did Oshun take it too far?

Oshun and the Underestimated Power of Women Sep 11, 2024 00:39:36 Oshun as a river deity, fertility deity, African Venus These ethnocentric and reductive views fail to reflect the centrality and authority of Oshun in Yoruba religious thought and practice. Neither do they convey the multidimensionality of her power: political, economic, divinatory, maternal, natural, therapeutic. This episode we will seek to gain an understanding of the Orisha Oshun. Barnes, Sa

Storytime #36- Oshun Saves Ogun Aug 16, 2024 00:12:02 This timeless tale never really felt complete to me. When Ogun refuses to return to the world, only Oshun could save us. But what happens after? I hope you enjoy these stories! References: Cuoco, Alex, African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits, and other Deities.

Affirmations for a Doubtful Mind Aug 13, 2024 00:10:43 If you are having some doubts, know that it's okay. I made this episode for you.

Affirmations for the Weary Mind Aug 3, 2024 00:10:09 Spirit guided me to try something new! affirmations to motivate you to meditate, take a breath, and be grateful for the blessings that surround you! Let me know what you think!!

Storytime #35- Oshun waits for the Hunter Aug 3, 2024 00:06:42 Oshun lives by the Lagoon everyday the baths and waits for a lover to appear. let's say it takes a while for this lover to appear. References: Prandi, Reginaldo. Mitologia dos orixás (Portuguese Edition) (pp. 130-131). Companhia das Letras.

Orunmilla Knows it All Jul 16, 2024 00:53:59 In this episode we explore The Orisha of Wisdom and Divination Ifa- Orunmila. Orunmilla is a vital Orisha to the Orisha pantheon but he isn't as popular as Orisha such as Oshun, Shango, and Yemaya, while he has a valuable relationship with each of these Orisha. In this episode we take a closer look at the Orisha Orunmilla. References: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

Storytime #34- Orunmila Never Stopped Searching for Iwa Jun 25, 2024 00:08:34 Iwa wanted something her husband Orunmila could not give her. Will he give up on thier love?

Storytime #33- Orunmila visits Owo Jun 25, 2024 00:11:47 When Orunmila decides to visit Owo, the oracle did not reveal what he could expect upon his journey. Is Orunmila walking into a trap?

Storytime #32- The Apetebi is not the Wife of the Bablawo Jun 24, 2024 00:09:15 What is an Apetebi? Is it the Babalawo's wife, girlfriend, or slave? What do you think about this story?

Storytime #31- Erinle The Protector Jun 17, 2024 00:05:50 Erinle is known for being a hunter, but he is also the protector of a very special group of people.

Storytime #30- Orunmila Tricks Oshun Jun 1, 2024 00:08:10 Orunmila was having a tough time at life? Until he decided to visit the Babalawo. Will Oshun give Orunmila what he needs to achieve wealth?

The Power of Shango May 14, 2024 00:37:43 In this episode we take a look into the Orisha Shango. One of the most popular Orisha in the Yoruba Pantheon. Known for being the husband of Oshun, Oya, and Oba Nani his story is so much more complex thanhis love relationships. This episode takes a deep dive into Orisha Shango. References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities Fatunmbi, Fa'lokun. Ebora (The Me

Storytime #29- Shango Burns Down the Town May 14, 2024 00:07:36 Shango receives a new powerful medicine from Eshu but is it too powerful? References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities

Storytime #28- Shango's Obsession with Power May 8, 2024 00:24:17 Shango rules over all of Oyo, but his Generals Timi and Gbonnka may be more popular than him. Will this quest for power be his undoing? Reference: Cuoco, Alex. Africa Narratives of Orishas, Spirits, and Other Deities

Storytime #27- Shango goes to War with Orunmilla Apr 25, 2024 00:06:41 Shango is blind with jealousy and Orunmilla is the target of Envy. How will this end. Reference: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

Embracing Change: a personal story Apr 11, 2024 00:20:57 I've got a testimony. I always share the Orishas' stories but rarely share my own. This was not easy, but I had to share because there are many women who battle with heavy menstrual cycles, fibroids, and endometriosis. I needed to share some of my story with you. Prayer from: I Hear Olofi’s Song by Dr. Iya Ayoka Wiles

Storytime #26- Oya Owner of the Cemetary Apr 10, 2024 00:07:36 There are many stories discussing how Oya became the Owner of the Cemetery. This story can be found in Patakín Orisha Stories of the Odu Ifa by David H. Brown

Storytime #25- Oya Saves Shango Apr 10, 2024 00:07:18 When Shango is pursued tirelessly by his enemies will Oya save him? Reference: Santeria Stories by Luis Manuel Núñez

Storytime #24- Don't Gossip about Oya Apr 9, 2024 00:09:24 What can Oya do when everyone is gossiping about her? If she loses her temper would she be wrong?

Exploring Ochosi Mar 29, 2024 00:30:27 This episode we explore the Orisha Ochosi. References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities Fatunmbi, Fa'lokun. Ebora (The Metaphysical Foundations of Ifa Book 2) . Unknown. Kindle Edition. Oni Yemaya, Mariela Alban. WARRIOR ORISHAS: ELEGUA, OGUN AND OSHOSI Prandi, Reginaldo. Mitologia dos orixás (Portuguese Edition) (pp. 130-131). Companhia das Letras.

Storytime #23- Ochosi is Betrayed by his Brother Mar 29, 2024 00:13:03 When Ochosi finds true happiness he never suspects it will be his brother who ruins everything for him. Reference: Prandi, Reginaldo. Mitologia dos orixás (Portuguese Edition) (pp. 130-131). Companhia das Letras.

Storytime #22- Ochosi Defeats the Iyami Mar 29, 2024 00:08:32 When the King of Ketu throws a party and forgets to invite the Iyami, all of the hunters step up to defend the city. Will Ochosi be able to defeat them with only one arrow?

Storytime #21- Ochosi learns from Ogun Mar 28, 2024 00:04:17 Ogun protects his brother in times of need and teaches him how to provide for himself.

Ogun: Warrior, Lover, King Mar 19, 2024 00:23:43 Let's take a look at the Orisha Ogun. The Orisha of Iron, war, and so much more. I have always seen the lover side of Ogun while others insist on seeing just the warrior. This episode digs into the complexities that is Orisha Ogun. References: Barnes, Sandra T.. Africa's Ogun: Old World and New (p. 39). Indiana University Press. Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deitie

Storytime #20 - Ogun and Ochosi Meet Their Father. Mar 16, 2024 00:06:38 This story left me with so many questions. Who is the father? How did the hunter know who they were talking about? Who is the hunter???? Resources: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities

Storytime #19- Ogun feels Fear and Weakness Mar 14, 2024 00:11:59 Ogun is afraid of nothing, but he fails to offer the proper scarifices. Should he fear losing his wife?

Storytime #18- Ogun Becomes a Babalawo Mar 14, 2024 00:07:02 Ogun becomes tired of working outside and being dirty all the time. He begins to work with Orunmilla and believes he should become a Babalawo. How will this work out?

Uncovering Aganju Mar 6, 2024 00:21:50 Aganju the Orisha of Volcanos and the wilderness. We never really talk about Aganju he is a very reclusive Orisha. He was one of the first Orisha to journey to the earth and this week we are going to uncover the mysteries that surround Aganju. References Oní Yemayá, Mariela Albán; Oni Shango, R.E. Avendano. ORISHAS, Yoruba Kings in the Lucumi Tradition Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Oris

Storytime #17- Aganju's Beef with Obatala Mar 3, 2024 00:09:41 Aganju has nothing to do, but Obatala is always busy. Is it right for Aganju to become a little jealous

Storytime #16- Aganju the King Mar 3, 2024 00:06:05 Can a King who never appears to his people be a good king? References: Borwn, David H. Patakin

Storytime #15 - Aganju and Oshun Get married Mar 3, 2024 00:09:06 Oshun agrees to marry Aganju, But Does she Really love him.

The Evolution of Yemaya Feb 24, 2024 00:21:26 Yemaya the Mother whose children are Fish. Mother to the Orisha. Lets take a look into this powerful Orisha. References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orisha Spirits and Other Deities Fuente Alvarez, Esther. Lucumi, Yoruba People: The Genesis Book of African Orisha Deities and their Presence Cuban Santeria Mason, John. Orisa: New World Black Gods

Storytime #14- Yemaya and Erinle Feb 24, 2024 00:08:56 Yemaya knows Erinle is a younger man, but they still enjoy each others' company. References Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orisha Spirits and Other Deities Fuente Alvarez, Esther. Lucumi, Yoruba People: The Genesis Book of African Orisha Deities and their Presence Cuban Santeria

Storytime #13- Yemaya and Orunmila Feb 24, 2024 00:10:42 Yemaya learns how to divine from her sister Oshun, but she learns so much more from her Husband Orunmilla. References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas Spirits and Other Deities Ocha Ni Lele. Teachings of the Santeria Gods

Storytime 12- Yemaya Teaches Shango a Lesson Feb 24, 2024 00:08:41 Shango struggles to show women respect and Yemaya teaches him a lesson. Reference: Nunez, Luis Manuel. Santeria Stories

Storytime 11 - Yemaya Ruins Orunmilla's Business Feb 23, 2024 00:04:09 When Orunmilla finds his perfect client, its Yemaya that ruins that for him. Reference: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu Ifa

Storytime 10- Obatalá's Dark Side Feb 17, 2024 00:05:25 Obatalá-Ayáguna is a side of Obatala you wouldn't want to meet. If there is no discord in the world then there is no progress. References: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu Ifa

Storytime 9 - Obatala's Insanity Feb 17, 2024 00:09:21 Obatala worries about all the injustices in the world but sometimes it can be too much. References: “Osogbo : speaking to the spirits of misfortune / Ócha’ni Lele.”

Obatala King of the Orisha Feb 17, 2024 00:23:14 This week we explore Obatala Father of the White Cloth References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits, and other Deities Neimark, Philip. Way of the Orisha Fatunmbi, Fa'lokun. Ebora (The Metaphysical Foundations of Ifa Book 2) OYEDEJI, Dr. Yinka. Yoruba gods & legends: Stories of how different Orishas acquired powers and became deities in Yoruba Land!

Storytime 8 - Obatala Visits Shango Feb 16, 2024 00:11:31 What could possibly go wrong when you are visiting a friend? Obatala decides to visit Shango in Oyo despite several warnings. Reference: Yourba Gods & Legends by Dr. Yinka Oyedeji

Eshu-Elegua Guardian of the Crossroads Feb 9, 2024 00:10:31 Eshu-Elegua is the orisha we all must know about and honor. Eshu was the first called by Olodumare to recieve his Ashe, but was the last to actually learn his role at the Crossroads. This episode dives into the often misunderstood Orisha that is Eshu-Elegua. References: Correal, Tobe Melora. Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa: A West African Spiritual Tradition (p. 9). Clarkson Potter/Ten Spe

Storytime 7- Eshu is Angry Feb 9, 2024 00:05:21 Better make sure you offer Eshu good sacrifices.

Storytime 6- Why Eshu Lives Outside Feb 9, 2024 00:04:33 Eshu the guardian of the Crossroads lives outdoors.

Storytime 5- Eshu at the Crossroads Feb 9, 2024 00:05:58 Enjoy the story!

Storytime 4- Olodumare Gives the People What They Want Feb 1, 2024 00:06:38 People can ask Olodumare for some silly things. Did their requests backfire on them?

Storytime 3 - Separation of Heaven and Earth Feb 1, 2024 00:08:29 This story gives us perspective into why Heaven and Earth are separate places. It can be found in Diloggún Tales of the Natural World by Ocha Ni Lele

Storytime 2- Creation Story Feb 1, 2024 00:07:03 This perspective of the Creation story shines a light onto the details of creation. This story can be found in Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa by Tobe Correal

Olodumare: The Owner of Creation Feb 1, 2024 00:15:15 What are the Orisha and where did they come from? Olodumare, Olorun, and Olofi One supreme being described in many different ways. Manifesting in many different ways. References: Kumari, Ayele. Isese Spirituality Workbook Nuñez, Luis Manuel. Santeria Stories Couco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits, and Other Deities

Storytime 1- Olorun Creates a Man Jan 29, 2024 00:03:31 This story is a telling of the Supreme Being Olorun (Creator of Heaven) creating a man and the trouble that followed. This story can be found in the first edition of African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits, and Other Deities by Alex Cuoco

Welcome to The Ashe Shop Podcast Jan 28, 2024 00:15:48 Welcome to The Ashe Shop Podcast. The place for people who want to learn about the Orisha and African Spiritual Practices. I’m Ashley your Orisha Storyteller and guide through the ins and outs of the spiritual journey. Think of these like your study spiritual. sessions.

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