Between Two Ravens: A Norse Mythology Podcast
A podcast exploring Norse mythology from a psychological perspective. Shawn Gaich brings his amateur expertise on Norse myths while David Alexander considers them through the lens of Carl Jung's theories on the collective unconscious and individuation. The show looks at the deeper psychological significance of ancient stories and how they might still resonate with modern listeners.
Episodes
S6E3: Sagas w/ Shawn Crossover: Ireland’s Mythic Invasions – From Noah to the Milesians
In this special crossover episode, Shawn brings an installment of his series Tales of Ireland from the podcast Sagas w/ Shawn – Gods and Kings over to Between Two Ravens. Since Ireland hasn’t yet made an appearance on BTR, this felt like the perfect excuse to totaly not "shamelessly" plug his other project.In this St. Patrick’s Day episode of Sagas w/ Shawn - Gods and Kings, we dive into one of th
S6E2 History of Britain (Part 1)
S6E2David and Shawn are back for the first time since February 2025. We have a bunch of life updates.David presents his "explain it like I'm 5" (ELI5) version of the history of the isle of Britain prior to the fall of Rome.I want to give credit and encourage you to check out some podcasts that inspired my search to understand the history of England, Wales, and Scotland. Welsh History Podcast:Episo
S6E1 - A Tale of Merlin
S6E1David kicks off Season 6 with a story of Merlin. Why Merlin you ask? Isn't this a Norse Mythology Podcast? You'll have to listen to the episode to find out.David talks about what has been interesting him lately and trying to catch up with Shawn's understanding of Anglo-Saxon history.Hey you're reading the episode description. You must really enjoy our content. Do you ever listen all the way to
S5E21: Volsung Poems: The Last Sons of Gudrun (Part 7 of 7)
S5E21 Volsung Poems: The Last Sons of Gudrun (Part 7)The conclusion of this meant to be short series, deep diving into the poems that underlie the Saga of the Volsungs. It has been quite a journey. If you have been following along, we have seen how the original sources are flawed. Some missing pages and stanzas. Some seem to be early poems, sometimes rearranged or reconstructed. Some are entirely
S5E20: Volsung Poems: Two Poems of Atli (Part 6 of 7)
S5E20 Volsung Poems: Two Poems of Atli (Part 5)David continues his series of not so short solo episodes, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.In this episode:The Lay of AtliThe Greenlandic Lay of AtliThese poems connect the legends of Atli the Hun, to his wife Gudrun and the poems of Sigurd and his decent from the Norse Gods. Atli kills Gudrun's bro
New Podcast Announcement - Sagas w/Shawn - Gods and Kings
Shawn has launched a solo podcast: Sagas w/Shawn – Gods and Kings.Don't worry, Between Two Ravens is not ending. This new series explores legendary and historical figures from Norse mythology and beyond, tracing the line between gods and kings, myth and history. Sort of like my solo episodes on "historical" figures with more of my stupid voice.I'll eventually discuss other world mythologies and ma
S5E18: Ragnar Lodbrok VII: The Legacy of Ragnar's Sons
In this episode, Shawn and David wrap up the series on Ragnar Lobrok (cue dozens of solo episodes where Shawn and David have not in fact wrapped up their series on Ragnar Lodbrok), discussing chapters 18 - 20. In tandem with "The Tale of Ragnars Sons", you find out about the fates of the sons of Ragnar, including their deaths. There are then a couple of chapters of some nameless characters (well o
S5E17: Volsung Poems: The Children of Giuki and Budli (Part 5 of 7)
S5E17 Volsung Poems: The Children of Giuki and Budli (Part 5)David continues his series of not so short solo episodes, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.In this episode:The Second Poem of Gudrun.The Death of the Niflungs.Oddrun's Lament.These relatively late poems bridge The First Poem of Gudrun to the poems about Atli and the early poem Lay of H
S5E16: Ragnar Lodbrok VI: King Aela and the Blood Eagle
In this episode, Shawn and David explore the aftermath of Ragnar Lodbrok’s death at the hands of King Aela of Northumbria, which initially causes a rift between his sons. While most are consumed by raw fury and seek immediate vengeance, Ivar takes a more calculating approach.Yet, despite their differences, the brothers share a common purpose—King Ælla must pay for their father’s death. As events u
S5E15: Ragnar Lodbrok V: Ragnar and the Snake Pit
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapter 15 of "The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok". Despite his absence in the previous episode, Ragnar knows full well about the successful military campaigns of his sons. Despite his past of slaying a dragon/serpent and being a great king among men, Ragnar sees his son's exploits beginning to exceed his own.In what seems to be a dark age mid life crisis, Ragnar d
S5E14: Ragnar Lodbrok IV: Rome (well "almost") and Back Again. A Viking's Tale by Ivar the Boneless
In this episode, the sons of Ragnar— Ivar, Bjorn, Hvitserk, and Sigurd—along with Ragnar's wife Aslaug, invade King Eystein’s land to avenge their fallen brothers, Eirik and Agnar. Facing yet another magical cow on the battlefield, Ivar the Boneless (if his ability to live without bones didn’t make it obvious) reveals his own magical abilities in taking on the cow.After the invasion, the sons (thi
S5E13: Volsung Poems: The Poems of Bynhild and Gudrun (Part 4 of 7)
S5E13 Volsung Poems: The Poems of Brynhild and Gudrun (Part 4) David continues his series of not so short solo episodes, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.This is the story of the meeting of the hero with the beloved. The Valkyrie. I had to analyze the tragedy of Tristan and Iseult to find the archetypes which may be at play with the meeting of t
S5E12: Ragnar Lodbrok III: Aslaug's Ancestral Revelation and the "Betrayal" of King Eystein
Shawn apologizes for his audio quality. He needed to switch to a headset last minute after already marking himself as using a speaker when he entered the recording room. He is an idiot. - ShawnIn this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapters 9-11 of the "Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok". The duo discuss Ragnar playing politics with his vassals, specifically with a King Eystein, a man Ragnar gave much land
S5E11: Why Study Norse Mythology and Archetypes of the Unconscious?
This is a short episode where David talks about why a person might want to study Norse Mythology, Poetry, and Archetypes. My hope is that this episode would be a good introduction for anyone who is not already following Shawn and I on our 2 year journey of exploring the myths of the Norse Gods and the hero Sagas of the Volsung family and Ragnar Lothbrook. My takeaway is that archetypes help us fin
S5E10: Ragnar Lodbrok II: The Farmer's Daughter and the Birth of Ivar the Boneless
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapters 5-8 of "The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok", which details a now adult Aslaug (still disguised as "Kraka", the daughter of a farmer) distracting the eyes of the men of Ragnar, then Ragnar himself. They further go into their marriage and the birth of a few of their sons, including Ivar the Boneless, Bjorn, Hvitserk, and Rognvald. The sons, ever aspiring to
S5E9: Tristan and Iseult: The Myth of Romantic Love
S5E9 - Tristant and Iseult: The Myth of Romantic Love.David presents a story that is a long time in the works. It is the story of Tristan and Iseult. The first European Romance story. It is a story I needed to explain to connect the Saga of Sigurd and the Dragon, with the love triangle drama of Sigurd, Brunhilde, and Gudrun. This episode combines interpretations from Jungian authors Robert Johnson
S5E8: Ragnar Lodbrok I: King Ragnar and the Dragon
Finally, Between Two Ravens starts their series on "The Saga of Ragnar Lodbrok" after only saying they were going to start it 8,000 times.In this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapters 1-4 of the saga, which details the journey of Heimir and a 3 year old Aslaug, escaping the the chaos that resulted in the death of her parents (Sigurd the Dragon Slayer and Brynhild the Valkyrie) into a farm in N
S5E7: Volsung Poems: Sigurd the Dragon Slayer (Part 3 of 7)
S5E7 Volsung Poems: Sigurd the Dragon Slayer (Solo Short Part 3 of 5) David continues his series of shorts, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.Sigurd is the primary "hero's journey" story of Saga of the Volsungs. He is the dragon slayer, the man without fear, and he is destined to be the greatest of kings. But Sigurd's story is a tragedy, he never
S5E6: Volsung Poems: Sinfjotli and Helgi (Part 2 of 7)
S5E6 Volsung Poems: Sinfjotli and Helgi (Solo Short Part 2 of 4)David continues his series of shorts, deep diving into the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs.Sinfjotli and Helgi were the older half brothers of Sigurd the dragon slayer. They were Sigmund's first sons and set the stage for the fate which led Sigurd to become a hero.Helgi has three poems, The first Poem
S5E5: Kent, the First Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of England
In this episode, Shawn discusses the kingdom of Kent, the first of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England post-Roman Britain as told by Bede's "Ecclesiastical History of the English People" and the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle". Shawn delves into the legendary figures of Kent's inception, focusing on the brothers Hengest and Horsa, whose lineage traces back to the All-Father, Odin. He discusses King Aethel
S5E4: "When the Wolf Comes" - Interview w/Ian Sharpe, the Creator of the Vikingverse
In this episode, Shawn and David delve deep into the immersive world of the Vikingverse with its creator and our special guest, Ian Sharpe. In this discussion, we uncover the alternate history where the norse religion and culture thrives, not succumbing to the influence of Christianity in the Dark Ages. Ian shares insights into his creation, spanning two books, a comic book series, and most recent
S5E3: Volsung Poems: Ottar/Otter (Part 1 of 7)
S5E3 Volsung Poems: Ottar/Otter (Solo Short Part 1)David isn't quite ready to put the Saga of the Volsungs to rest. This is the first of a series of shorts on the Poems of the Poetic Edda which inspired the Saga of the Volsungs. As Shawn and I found in Season 4, Saga of the Volsungs has a few inconsistent parts, where the author appears to have tried to reconcile multiple sources into a coherent s
S5E2: The Sun and the Moon (Night and Day)
For our 100th episode (shit!!), Shawn discusses the origin of the sun and the moon, along with the origins of night and day in Norse Mythology, as told by Gylfaginning in Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda. (Also with some stanzas from the Poetic Edda poems, Völuspá and Vafþrúðnismál.In it Shawn also explores the idea of looking to the divine when humans cannot currently explain something, and compares
S5E1: Volsung Recap and Ragnar Episode 0?
In this episode, Shawn and David finally put the Volsung series behind them with and episode on,,,, the Volsungs. A recap of the series where we discuss the overall themes of the tragedy, and where we discuss what may seem to be the evilness of women, which seems to REALLY be the easy manipulation of men (gods we are stupid sometimes).... They also give a recap of the main players of the series.Al
S4E22 Volsung Saga XIV: Gudrun's Revenge and 3rd Marriage
Shawn and David finally wrap up the "The Saga of the Volsungs". Where Gudrun, fresh off of losing her 2 brothers, plots revenge on her husband Atli. After she takes care of him (and ugh her 2 sons with him), she then finds herself married for a 3rd time to a King Jonakr.Svanhild, daughter of Sigurd and Gudrun, also plays a part and does her fucked up duty as a princess in the dark ages and becomes
S4E21 Volsung Saga XIII: Atli the Cruel, Brother of Brynhild
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the aftermath of Sigurd's death, and the life of Gudrun as a recent widow. Though she has a goodbye moment with the corpse of her husband, she then travels the world to start fresh and finds herself at a kingdom in Denmark where she befriends a Princess Thora there. After 3.5 years, she slowly regains some happiness and everything is turning up for Gudrun.T
S4E20 Volsung XII: The Deaths of Sigurd and Brynhild
David and Shawn discuss chapters 30 and 31 of the Saga, which features in back to back chapters the deaths of 2 major characters, in this case Sigurd the Dragon Slayer of the House of Volsung, and Brynhild the Valkyrie. Brynhild at this point is still depressed over her inability to affect her fate in life, specifically with her inability to be with Sigurd. As she has found out that Sigurd himself
S4E19 Volsung XI: Brynhild's Depression
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 28 & 29 of the Saga of the Volsungs. Gudrun taunts Brynhild on having won the better man (Sigurd) while also trying to convince Brynhild that her true love, Sigurd, isn't that great and Brynhild's husband, Gudrun's brother, is actually quite a catch.Brynhild's anger and resentment grow until she becomes defeated and depressed. When her husband
S4E18 Volsung X: Brynhild v Gudrun - A Dark Age Love Triangle
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 25-27 of the Saga, which sees a budding friendship between Sigurd and the sons of King Gjuki, Gunnar and Hogni. Those brothers also have a sister, Princess Gudrun. The very woman Brynhild told Sigurd he would be fated to marry as oppose to her. King Gjuki also has a wife who happens to be a witch, Queen Grimhild. The Queen sees that Sigurd has a fo
S4E17 The Ring Cycle: Götterdämmerung - Twilight of the Gods (4 of 4)
David presents part 4 of 4 short episodes on the Ring of Power. A Jungian interpretation of Wagner's 4 part Opera inspired by the high German version of Saga of the Volsungs (Nibelungenlied - Song of the Nibelung).This episode has been a long one in the making and it is a long short. It begins with a summary of the final portion of Siegfried's journey, which parallel's Sigurd's journey at the end
S4E16 Volsung Saga IX: Brynhild the Valkyrie
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 20-24 of the Volsung Saga, where Sigurd has 2 completely different meetings with the Valkyrie, Brynhild. There is also a chapter dedicated solely to how beautiful Sigurd himself is. Shawn says the word, "inconsistency" 40,384 times.Also, the pair discuss Brynhild's words to Sigurd and how she may actually be warning him of his lust for her as oppos
S4E15 Volsung Saga VIII: Sigurd and the Song of Birds
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapter 19 of the Saga of the Volsungs, with additional content from the poem, Fáfnismál. Sigurd, fresh off of killing the feared dragon Fafnir, receives some interesting information from new friends of the avian variety.What Sigurd does with this information and his future in general, is up to fate.Ways to support us:If you have been enjoying our show, ple
S4E14 Volsung Saga VII: Sigurd the Dragon Slayer
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the rise of Sigurd of the House of Volsung in chapter 17 and 18 of the saga. Firstly, with him raising an army to battle the rival family of the Volsungs (the sons of Hunding) and his father's killer, King Lyngvy. We then discuss the very anti-climatic "fight" between Sigurd and Fafnir, along with the much cooler conversation between the two after Sigurd mo
S4E13 Volsung Saga VI: Sigurd and Regin
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the son of Sigmund and Hjordis, Sigurd (The main character of the entire saga). Though Sigmund died before his son was born, Sigurd was raised with many father figures, The Kings Alf and Hjordis, our friend (and Sigurd's great-great-great grandfather) Odin, and his foster-father, a figure named Regin.Regin sees the potential of Sigurd, and sees the potentia
S4E12 Volsung Saga V: The Death of Sigmund, Son of Volsung
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapters 11 and 12 of "The Saga of the Volsungs", where Sigmund (who recently banished his first wife Borghild for killing his first son, Sinfjotli) desires to remarry. He eventually marries a Princess Hjordis, who was the daughter of a King Eylimi.However, Hjordis had other potental suitors as well, one being a King Lyngvi, who waged war on Sigmund as a re
S4E11 On Bifrost
In this episode, Shawn discusses Bifrost (The Rainbow Bridge) as told in the sources. Primarily found in various chapters of Gylfaginning from Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda, the bridge plays a pivitol role in the protection of Asgard,,, well until it doesnt.Shawn also briefly discusses Heimdal's role outside of causing controversy about him being the next James Bond, while also discussing Bifrost'
S4E10 Volsung Saga IV: Helgi Hundingsbane
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss another son of Sigmund of the House Volsung, Helgi Hundingsbane. As Helgi only features in 1 chapter of "The Saga of the Volsungs" (chapter 9), he isn't considered a major character. However, in the Poetic Edda, two poems feature different versions of his life and provide more context on his life.In reviewing chapter 9 of the sage and the poems "Helgakvitha
S4E9 Volsung Saga III: Sinfjotli, His Life and Death
In this episode, Shawn and David are back after a bit of a hiatus due to busy real world demands. Shawn gives updates on his life and recent adventures.Shawn outlines Chapters 7, 8, and 10 of Volsung Saga, connecting the story of Sigmund and his son Sinfjotli. Chapter 9 on Sigmund’s son Helgi and the associated Eddic Poems will feature in the next episode Volsung IV. David and Shawn make connectio
S4E8 The Ring Cycle: Siegfried (3 of 4)
S4E8 The Ring Cycle: Siegfried (3 of 4) - David presents part 3 of 4 short episodes on the Ring of Power. A Jungian interpretation of Wagner's 4 part Opera inspired by the high German version of Saga of the Volsungs (Nibelungenlied - Song of the Nibelung).Apologies for the delay. Shawn and I have a lot going on in our personal lives. But we hope to get back to recording regular episodes soon.Opera
S4E7 House of Yngling IV: Harald Fairhair - His Purpose and Happiness
In this episode, Shawn continues his series on the "House of Yngling", which starts with Harald cutting his hair for the first time in 10 years, after successfully his life goal after becoming the King of Norway. We see that although Harald accomplished his dream, his overall ambition doesn't change, and he still seems to live his life in the same way as he eager to aggression, and still looking f
S4E6 House of Yngling III: Harald Fairhair - First King of Norway
In this episode, Shawn continues his series of solo episodes on the House of Ynging, this time focusing on the 3rd chapter of Snorri Sturluson's work, "Heimskringla", "The Saga of Harald Fairhair".Harald is widely considered to be the first king of a unified Norway. Taking over a petty-kingdom at the age of 10 upon the death of his father, Halvdan the Black, Harald commits to never combing or cutt
S4E5 Volsung Saga II: Sigmund and Signy, the Children of Volsung
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss Chapters 3-6 of the Volsung Saga, in which King Siggeir orchestrates his revenge against the House of Volsung due to the previously mentioned perceived slight by Sigmund. The result, a heroic death by the namesake of the House, and the horrigying deaths of most of Volsung's children.However, the daughter of Volsung, Signy, has not forgotten the actions of h
S4E4 The Ring Cycle: Die Walkure (2 of 4)
S4E4 The Ring Cycle: Die Walkure (2 of 4)David presents part 2 of 4 short episodes on the Ring of Power. A Jungian interpretation of Wagner's 4 part Opera inspired by the high German version of Saga of the Volsungs (Nibelungenlied - Song of the Nibelung).Opera 2, Die Walkure (The Valkyrie) presents the interplay of how the gods influence the lives of mortals. Odin wants to create a hero with free
S4E3 Volsung Saga I: The Birth of Volsung
In this episode, Shawn and David continue their series on "The Saga of the Volsungs", starting with the god, Odin. Odin's murderous son, Sigi, Sigi's son Rerir, then Rerir's son, Volsung. Volsung didn't have the easiest birth, as he grew for at least 6 years in his mother's womb. The pair further discuss the idea that Odin siring a human son and playing a part in weaving the fates of his family li
S4E2 The Ring Cycle: Das Rheingold (1 of 4)
David presents a short episode series reviewing the book "The Ring of Power". A Jungian feminist perspective on Wagner's 4 part Opera based on the High German version of Saga of the Volsungs (Nibelungenlied).David gives a brief synopsis of Opera 1, Das Rheingold, some of Jean Shinoda Bolen's interpretation on the significance of the story, and David's take on how the story fits into our larger arc
S4E1 Volsung Saga 0: The Origin of Fafnir
Shawn and David publish their first episode discussing the "Saga of the Volsungs". However, as opposed to starting from the top with the origins of the family, the pair decided to discuss the origins of another important character in the story. Specifically, Fafnir the Dragon. The pair felt this was the right story to start this series as the its beginning details an adventure between our friends
S3E17: The Journey of Loki II: Loki the Effing Psycho
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss the other layer of the character Loki, not the one where he is a playful prankster, but the one where he becomes a psychopath who brings on Ragnarök after what happens to his children.Shawn gets "deep" (or as deep as Shawn can go) when he discusses whether or not (again) that things need to die for society to grow, including ourselves. Did Loki's actions th
S3E16: The House of Yngling II: Halvdan the Black
In this episode, Shawn discusses the character of Halvdan the Black as described in Snorri Sturluson's work, Heimskringla.Halvdan was a great king in his own right; however, this portion of Heimskringla also serves to describe the marriage to a woman named Ragnhild, and the resulting greatness of their family line, starting with their son Harald Fairhair, the supposed first king of a unified Norwa
S3E15: Gorm The Old: King of Denmark (936-958 CE)
In this episode, Shawn discusses Gorm "The Old", who is considered the first historically recognized King of Denmark. A kingdom which still exists today with Queen Margrethe II as its Head of State. Though the main points of his life are still fuzzy at best, Gorm does appear in later writings; however, we are confident of his historical existence in part to the 2 Jelling Runestone's, one of which
S3E14: The Journey of Loki (Part 1)
Shawn and David recap the stories of Loki. Starting with the more playful side of this Shadowy Trickster. Loki and Sif's hair. Loki and the birth of Slepnir. Loki and the apples of Idunn. Why is Loki obsessed with the goddesses? Maybe it is because you have to be tricked into approaching the feminine and accepting your fate. But by doing so you gain the greatest of gifts. The mighty hammer Mjolnir
S3E13: Rollo of Normandy
In this episode, Shawn discusses the historical/legendary figure of Rollo, a Viking who founded the Duchy of Normandy. A man who had a somewhat famous descendant named "William the Conqueror, the man who eventually would invade England in 1066 and end the reign of the Anglo-Saxon Kings of England. Rollo's childhood is somewhat obscure, as we are currently unsure if he was from Denmark or Norway, t
S3E12: B2R Short - Haustlong: A New Translation
A solo episode by David, where I have re-translated the Skaldic poem Haustlong which was featured in Episode 10 - Thor's Journey Part 1. Shawn and I found the poem really difficult to understand when we read it during episode 10, and I got a bit obsessed with trying to understand what they were actually going for in the Old Norse poem. As I started translating Old Norse words, I realized that ther
S3E11: The Journey of Thor (Part 2)
Part 2 of our recap on the god, Thor. In this episode we discuss a few of the stories where Thor may have shown personal growth and reflection in his action. Where Thor, without his hammer Mjollnir, relies on the help of others and potentially his own previous experiences to succeed. We also discuss his death at Ragnarök where he initially stands side by side with his father, Odin. Did Odin simply
S3E10: The Journey of Thor (Part 1)
Part 1 of 2 on Thor’s Hero’s Journey. Shawn recaps the myths where Thor learns painful lessons along his journey, either from his father Odin, Loki, or other powerful Giants. David reads the Skaldic poem Haustlong, which is a ‘chock-full-of-kennings’ rendition of Thor’s battle with Hrungnir.Thor’s early hero’s journey reinforces the importance of Havamal Virtues. David gives an example of divinati
S3E9: Penda: The Last Pagan King of Mercia
Shawn discusses the life of Penda: Last Pagan King of Mercia, as told in the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" and Bede's "Ecclesiastical History of the English People". 7th Century England saw many of the Petty Kingdoms converting to Christianity. However, King Penda of Mercia (626-655ce) remained a staunch pagan up until his death. During his reign he ravanged Northumbria (killing 2 of its kings), invaded
S3E8: The Journey of Odin (Part 3), Odin and Death
Shawn and David wrap up their series on the journey of Odin, from his birth to his death at Ragnarök. This week they focus primarily on what they consider to be an older Odin contemplating his life and mortality, and ask the question "Did Odin die a good death?" when swallowed by the wolf, Fenrir. The pair also discuss the idea of meditating on one's death and how we as humans can recognize the fa
S3E7: The Journey of Odin (Part 2)
Shawn and David continue part 2 of 3: The Journey of Odin. We continue with Odin’s stories of meddling in the affairs of mortals and gods. Odin, the King of the Gods, struggles to understand the ‘Good Father’ Archetype. We get a bit deep talking about the structure of the human psyche, whether God(s) exist or not, and whether immortality is really boring. Watch Shawn takeover TikTok https://www.t
S3E6: The Journey of Odin (Part 1)
Shawn and David recap the journey of Odin in a 3 part series. Part one is Odin’s younger years. Odin’s origin and the birth of the gods. Odin’s adventures to gain wisdom, poetry, and magic spells.David and Shawn muse on the idea of why Odin is seeking Wisdom from The Feminine, what Odin has to sacrifice, and why it all has to do with learning to face your death.Announcements: David is starting a m
S3E5: The Ancestors and Descendants of Cerdic: First King of Wessex
In this episode, Shawn discusses the figure of Cerdic, the supposed first king of Wessex as told in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle. Cerdic and his son Cynric formed the kingdom in the year 519 ce. 400 years later, his house and descendants would form the Kingdom of England, a kingdom which still stands today in 2023 with King Charles III. The chronicle also contains 2 interesting notes. One in the year
S3E4: Ragnarök III - The Aftermath and Rebirth
In this episode, Shawn and David discuss chapters 52 and 53 of Gylfaginning from the Prose Edda, which details the aftermath and rebirth of Ragnarök. They also further discuss the similarities with this story and Revelations from the Holy Bible. Shawn also talks about how he was the original "Shawn the Valet" and hints that Marvel owes him some money. Ways to support us: If you have been enjoying
S3E3: Ragnarök II - The Battle ("Of the Vigrid Fields")
In this episode Shawn and David discuss the battle of Ragnarök. We see the deaths of many of our favorite characters of Norse Mythology. ....It uhhhh, does NOT go well for the gods. David also is very excited that he watched a movie this century and was keen to discuss Thor: Love and Thunder. Ways to support us: If you have been enjoying our show, please write a 5 star review on itunes to help spr
S3E2: Fireside Chat I - Vǫlundarkviða
Our first ever live Fireside Chat! In this episode the hosts (Shawn and David obviously) and fans discuss (over drinks) the poem Vǫlundarkviða from the Poetic Edda. The poem details the story of a talented elf's fall into a corrupted sole as he takes revenge on a king of men, Nithuth... We thank everyone for taking there time to join us for the event and we hope to see you again at the next one! W
S3E1: Ragnarök I - The Omens
To kick off Season 3 Shawn and David are talking about Ragnarok. Loki is freed from his bonds and he is joined by his children Fenrir, Jormungandr, Hel and her army of the dead, The sons of Muspell (an army of Fire Giants), and an army of Frost Giants for good measure. It's a wild scene, but as David points out, not quite as wild as the book of Revelations (you really gotta read the book of Revela
S2E29: What Is A Mystic? An Interview with Simon Drew
David interviews Simon Drew, Poet, Podcaster, and Founder of The Walled Garden Philosophical Society. In our conversation, we talk about the founding of The Walled Garden, and it's mission of "finding Wisdom, wherever it might be found". How poetry and mysticism contribute to the mission of a philosophical society. We discuss pathways to initiation, including mythology and philosophy, as ways to u
S2E28: B2R Short: What is Yule?
David brings a both light hearted and serious look at the celebration of Yule. A completely non-comprehensive take on the idea of celebrating the Winter Solstice from an archetypal perspective and reflecting on our modern traditions that reflect back to a much earlier time before the Christianization of the season. The Recipe for Wassail: https://tworavenpodcast.wordpress.com/2022/12/22/wassail-re
S2E27: "The Wanderer" (A Winter Solstice poem by Shawn)
"The Wanderer" - A poem by Shawn Gaich to celebrate the Winter Solstice and the Holiday Season. 4 years ago, Shawn's colleagues at work asked him to write a holiday poem. So of course he writes a poem where Odin (The Wanderer) toys with the souls of mortals. Though the poem was lost, Shawn was able to remember enough of it and fill in the blanks everywhere else. Note --> The obvious portion of
S2E26: The Capture and Torture of Loki
Season 2, Episode 26. Shawn and David conclude the season long series on Loki: the cause of and solution to all of life's problems. Shawn recaps the adventures of Loki up to this point, and we explore the sections of Lokasenna and Gylfaginning Chapter 50 which provide the story of Loki fleeing from the Aesir after his involvement in the death of Baldur. Loki turns himself into a fish and we learn
S2E25: B2R Short: Norse Mythology and Exploring The Shadow
S2 Episode 25: B2R Short Norse Mythology and Exploring the Shadow. David shares his ideas on why there is a connection between Stoic Philosophy, Jungian Psychology, and Norse Mythology. They are all methods of seeking wisdom and healing the human soul. I share my personal take on why Norse Mythology is the ideal mythology for understanding the archaic man within the soul of modern man and the per
S2E24: The Vikings of North America II: The Saga of the Greenlanders
S2 Episode 24: The Vikings of North America II: The Saga of the Greenlanders In this episode, Shawn discusses another version of the Norse discovery and settlement of Greenland, along with the settlement of North America, as told in "The Saga of The Greenlanders", a source written in the early to mid 13th Century. This story shows a similar but different version of events that detail these discove
S2E23: The Vikings of North America I: Eirik the Red's Saga
S2 Episode 23: The Vikings of North America: Eirik the Red's Saga In this episode, Shawn discusses the tale of the Norse discovery and settlement of Greenland, along with the accidental discovery by Leif Erikson of North America, as told in "Eirik the Red's Saga", a source written in the early 13th century. Although the story details the lives of the characters of Eirik the Red, his offspring Leif
S2E22: The House of Yngling I: The "Historical" Sons of Freyr
Note --> Renamed on 7/3/23 to be the first episode on "The House of Yngling" In this episode, Shawn discusses the family line of the Ynglings. According to Snorri Sturlason's work "Ynglinga Saga", this family line supposedely started with a humanized version of the Vanir god, Njord (and his son, Freyr). The story states that Njord was a king in Uppsala, Sweden. Over the years the family of king
S2E21: Freyr's "Courtship" of Gerdr (Part 2)
Season 2 Episode 2: Freyr’s “Courtship” of Gerder (Part 2) This week Shawn and David wrap up the 2 part series on the story of how Freyr sends his servant, Skirnir, to propose to the giantess Gerdr on his behalf. Last week with them discussing Chapter 37 of Gylfaginning from the Prose Edda; however, this week them discussing its Poetic Edda counterpart, the poem, “For Skirnis”. Skirnir in this poe
50th EPISODE SPECIAL!!: Lokasenna - A Radio Drama
Shawn and David present "Lokasenna - A Radio Drama" In celebration of releasing our 50th episode. Share your vote for your favorite God/Goddess/Voice Actor on Twitter @TwoRavenPodcast Loki - The Trickster with a big mouth. Odin - King of the gods and Loki’s blood brother who swore an oath to listen to Loki’s bullshit. Bragi - The God of poetry and being inspired to write poetry after drinking good
S219: Freyr's "Courtship" of Gerdr (Part 1)
Season 2 Episode 19 Part 1 of 2 Frey's "Courtship" of Gerdr Shawn and David tell the story of Frey the lovesick lover from Snori’s Prose Edda Frey shows up in relatively few stories, besides his arrival with the Aesir in a hostage exchange with the Vanir, Lokasenna, and Skirnismal - the story of Frey gaining the hand of the giantess Gerd, through the coercive efforts of his servant Skirnir. Shaw
S2E18: Lokasenna - Loki's Quarrel (Part 3)
We complete Loki’s comedy roast of the Aesir Gods, with insults against Heimdall, Skadi, Sif (Poor Sif, what did she ever do wrong?) and Byggvir’s wife Beyla. Thor shows up and puts a bit of fear in Loki, but not before previews that the end of the Gods is nigh.Look forward to our future episode detailing the capture of Loki! David’s 1st Mindfulness Group at The Walled Garden November 5th, Saturda
S2E17: Lokasenna - Loki's Quarrel (Part 2)
In this episode, Shawn and David continue their series on Loki with part 2 of 3 of the Poetic Edda poem, Lokasenna (Specifically stanzas 29-46). Loki continues his efforts to insult nearly every god present, adding Njorth, Frey, Freya, Byggvir, and Tyr to his already large list. Loki seems to have specific attacks implying that some of the Vanir gods, (Njorth, Frey, and Freya) have a tendency to b
S2E16: Are Odin and Loki Brothers?
This week we improvise a short “bonus” episode, as we were inspired to really answer the question of what evidence supports the idea of Odin and Loki being “blood brothers” or even possibly actual brothers. There are certainly interesting parallels between Loki and Odin and inconsistent sources as to whether Loki and Odin could be long time traveling companions or even brothers. David gives some
S2E15: Lokasenna - Loki's Quarrel (Part 1)
David and Shawn return from break and continue the series on Loki: the cause of and solution to all of life’s problems. Loki is in rare form and decides to provoke a fight while the Gods are having a party at Aegir’s hall. Loki roasts the gods one by one, as they make weak attempts to clap back at him.We discuss Stanzas 1 through 29, breaking where Loki reveals to Frigg that he was responsible for
S2E14: The Archetype of The Psychopath - The Trickster Without Eros.
David presents a short solo episode on the definition of the Archetype of the Psychopath based on Adolph Guggenbühl-Craig’s book “The Emptied Soul”. What does a psychopath have to do with Norse Mythology? Well apparently a lot, as Guggenbühl-Craig explicitly compares Norse Mythology to a state of “psychopathic depression” and nihilism.David critiques Guggenbühl-Craig’s understanding of Nordic Myth
S2E13: Bonus Episode - What Is The Walled Garden?
David put together a bonus short episode this week, talking more about the mythological idea of a Walled Garden and more practically what The Walled Garden Philosophical Society is all about. There will be a regular short episode to be released on Friday.The Walled Garden: https://thewalledgarden.com/ The Philosophers: https://thewalledgarden.com/philosophers Simon Drew: Poet and host of The Pract
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