Episodes

In this enchanting episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we journey into the heart of the Alpine region to unravel the captivating traditions of Raunacht, a mystical and magical celebration intertwined with the Christmas season. Join us as we peel back the layers of folklore, superstition, and ancient customs that make Raunacht a truly unique and intriguing holiday experience.

Discover the centuries-old traditions of the Alpine people as they engage in mysterious rituals, don elaborate masks, ...

In this delectable episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we dive into the world of Christmas beverages that warm the heart and tickle the taste buds. Join us as we take a flavorful journey through the most beloved and festive drinks of the holiday season.

Going beyond classic favorites like hot cocoa and mulled wine and diving into deeper cuts in the beverage world, we'll explore the diverse array of Christmas libations that grace our mugs and glasses during this special time of year.

Discove...

In this enlightening episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we embark on a captivating journey through time to explore the rich history of Luminaria. Join us as we uncover the origins, cultural significance, and evolution of these mesmerizing paper lanterns that have lit up our lives for centuries.

From their humble beginnings in far-flung regions to their widespread use in modern celebrations, we delve deep into the enchanting world of Luminaria. Learn how different cultures have embraced thes...

In this bone-chilling episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we venture into the frosty depths of folklore to unravel the tales of wintertime monsters that have haunted our imaginations for generations. Join us as we shine a light on the dark and mysterious creatures that emerge when the winter winds howl and the snow falls.

From the elusive Barbegazi of the Alps to the eerie Wendigo of North American legends, we delve deep into the myths and legends that have sent shivers down our spines durin...

In this enchanting episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we set sail on a cultural voyage to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, where Christmas celebrations take on a unique and captivating charm. Join us as we uncover the rich tapestry of traditions in Greece, Croatia, and Albania, and discover how these countries infuse the holiday season with their own distinctive flavors.

From the twinkling lights of Dubrovnik's Old Town to the mesmerizing dance of the Albanian "Kështjella" (castl...

In this festive episode of The Lost Christmas Podcast, we're donning our capes and spreading holiday spirit as we explore the incredible world of Christmas heroes and superheroes. Join us as we unwrap heartwarming stories of individuals (in movies) who go above and beyond during the holiday season, embodying the true spirit of giving.

Discover how these everyday heroes, in their own unique ways, bring joy, hope, and happiness to those in need. We'll also dive into the realm of pop culture, expl...

In this captivating episode, we delve deep into the fascinating world of winter time deities. Discover the rich tapestry of cultural and mythological figures associated with the cold season as we explore their origins, symbolism, and significance. Join us for a journey through the lore of these powerful entities and their connection to various winter traditions around the world. Whether you're a mythology enthusiast or simply curious about the mystical aspects of winter, this episode offers insi...

On today's episode we cover the history of the iconic colors of the Christmas season. Yes, that color too!, I've got it all covered with background from religious to secular and all kinds of history beyond the surface. I hope you enjoy, and stick around after the colors of Christmas to discover more of the Lost Years of Santa Claus!

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https://www.LostChristmasPodcast.com

email: jeff@lostchristmaspodcast.com or lostchristmaspodcast@gmail.com

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Today being #ChristmasPodcastDay, I had to release a special episode covering a unique version of A Christmas Carol. Oh and we're kicking off another story from The Lost Years of Santa Claus as well. Thanks everyone and enjoy!

Visit the new website!

https://www.LostChristmasPodcast.com

email: jeff@lostchristmaspodcast.com or lostchristmaspodcast@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/lostchristmaspodcast
www.twitter.com/lostchristmasp1
www.instagram.com/lostchristmaspodcast

Special thanks to:

The Chri...

Hey everybody! I'm back today with another episode, 3 recommendation (a movie, a TV episode and a book), another Santa and more of The Lost Years of Santa Claus!

We're headed north, to the Nordic countries as we talk about Joulupukki - the Yule Goat. There's a ton of history and tradition here, and I will be barely scratching the surface. There's a ton to digest, a bunch to discover and a lot to learn. Part 5 of Santa and his list from The Lost Years of Santa Claus follows at the end of the epi...

Hey everybody! I'm back today with another episode, 3 recommendation (a movie, a TV episode and a book), another Santa and more of The Lost Years of Santa Claus!

Today we're traveling to France to discuss the wonderful fairy godmother named Tante Arie (Aunt Airie/Aunt Arie)! She is a fascinating blend of so much history, with enormous powers and abilities as well! From the Franche-Comte region of France near the Swiss border, this lovely lady brings gifts and a lot more. Listen, learn and share...

Hey everybody! I'm back today with another episode, 3 recommendation (a movie, a TV episode and a book), another Santa and more of The Lost Years of Santa Claus!

Today we're traveling to Greece to discuss the history of St. Basil! He's a very interesting character who shares a lot of traits and history with St. Nicholas from his love of giving to the needy to his value of education and sharing of one's wealth with others. You'll also get to hear about this special Santa from around the world wh...

This one is a very special episode where I'm going to talk all about Olentzero, the Basque gift-giving giant from the Pyrenees! Such a long oral history exists in the Basque region and Olentzero is a wonderfully unique character. In this episode we dive into the history of the region at winter/Christmas time and some of the things that make this character and this region so unique! Also we get part 2 of Santa's list, how he created his list and why he uses one from The Lost Years of Santa Claus....

We're back with another episode in this season of Santa! Today we explore the Wise Men of many names, totally not Olentzero, the Basque Giant! My bad guys! Lots of history here and biblical impact as well. Leave your shoes out and some hay for the camels! As always, please like and subscribe to the podcast, and share it to all of your friends! Follow the podcast on social media as well, and reach out to us via email: lostchristmaspodcast@gmail.com www.facebook.com/lostchristmaspodcast www.twitte...

Hey everybody! Today we're traveling to Germany to discuss the history of Christmas there, and the super interesting character named der Weihnachtsmann! You'll learn all about the different traditions that have been around for hundreds of years and how they have evolved and influenced how the Yuletide time is celebrated today. As promised here's some notes from this episode - Knecht Ruprecht (aka Krampus) and Odin (Hruod Percht / Rhumreicher Percht).

Thomas Nast image of Santa from 1880s (woo b...

Hey everyone! Today we talk all about Superheroes at Christmas. From live action movies & TV shows to comic books I dive in to celebrate the heroes we love to watch & read at Christmastime. This is a very special episode to celebrate my late sister Steffany, who sadly passed away November 17, 2005 at age 17. I think we all have loved ones who we miss during the holidays and I have been wanting to do something special for my sister. Being the anniversary of the day she passed, I thought this woul...

Welcome to the Season of Santa! Kicking off season 3! we head to Japan to encounter one of the seven gods of prosperity, the one and only Hotei! We'll explore some of the traditions of Christmas in Japan and the mythos surrounding Hotei (Hoteiosho). As always, like and subscribe to the podcast, and share it to all of your friends!

Follow the podcast on social media as well, and reach out to us via email:

lostchristmaspodcast@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/lostchristmaspodcast
www.twitter.com/lost...

We're back! Season 3 will kick off with plenty of new histories, mysteries, and information for you Christmas lovers! There's a new format, new music, new artwork, and a new website coming very soon, so I hope you all will enjoy the latest from The Lost Christmas Podcast. As always: email me or find me on whatever social media site you like most. Thanks so much and I will see you all very soon!

In today's Season 2 finale, we talk all about Saturnalia! In Part 1 of this series we discussed Kronia, the precursor to Saturnalia. Now we are going to discuss the famous pre-Christmas celebration that gets a lot of credit for many traditions still used today. And not without good reason too, as Saturnalia has a very interesting history. Learn about this Roman festival and discover some things you might not have known! Lastly, we end the episode with the exciting conclusion to Santa Claus versu...

Did you know that before the world celebrated Christmas that there were other winter celebrations? Of course you did (especially if you listen to this podcast!). Saturnalia gets much of the attention, and for good reason, but today we are going to go way back BEFORE Saturnalia and we'll explore Kronia, Shab-e Yalda, Zagmuk and more. Learn all about some patterns and traditions that have stood the test of time! At the end of the episode we have a much requested story from The Lost Years of Santa ...

We have a very special guest today: Dr. Emily Zarka of Arizona State University and PBS Digital Studios Monstrum! We talk about monsters at Christmas, the history of monsters, the abundance of mythos at Christmastime and so much more. Be sure to check out her show and enjoy hearing all about the monstrous Christmas world!

Edit: As requested, no more background music! Thank you guys for the feedback, it's always welcome!

Links:

Monstrum
Ana and the Apocalypse
Krampus episode of Monstrum
Yuleti...

This episode brings a boat-load of information about current traditions around using the Nativity - both living Nativity and artistic representations. I dive briefly into the origins of the use of the Nativity around Christmas, and then we take a look at the real history and some misconceptions around the birth of Jesus. At the end of the episode we read through part 2 of our story from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, and I announce the winner of the first annual Lost Christmas Giveaway! Over 160...

Join us each week on The Lost Christmas Podcast during the holiday season!

In this episode you'll hear my very specific, hard-fast rules for determining if a movie is indeed a Christmas movie. As a much requested piece, I've included my rules and scoring system so you can determine whether or not a movie is a Christmas movie. Stir the pot, bring on the controversy!

At the end of the episode, we start a new story from The Lost Years of Santa Claus, and as a special "thank you" to all of the listeners, I've got the first giveaway in the history of this little podcast. L...