Circle Round Podcast Episode Summary: "Milk from a Bull"
Introduction
In the August 12, 2025 episode of Circle Round, titled "Milk from a Bull," host Rebecca Scheer weaves an enchanting tale inspired by folktales from India, Siberia, Mongolia, and the Philippines. Recorded live at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, this episode features a stellar cast and a magnificent musical accompaniment by the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The story delves into themes of ingenuity, perseverance, and the triumph of wit over deceit.
Setting the Stage
The story unfolds in a grand palace beside a rippling river, where a benevolent king reigns. Central to the palace's harmony is Sai, the wise and beloved royal advisor, portrayed with warmth and wisdom. Sai has served the royal family loyally, first advising the king's father and now the current monarch. However, the tranquility of the palace is disrupted by Dr. Dev, the king's medical advisor, whose envy sets the plot in motion.
Dr. Dev’s Scheme
Dr. Dev, portrayed with a mix of arrogance and cunning by Omar Effendom, harbors ambitions to usurp Sai's position. Dissatisfied with his current role, he devises a plan to force Sai into retirement by presenting him with an insurmountable challenge. During a conversation at [05:05], Dr. Dev declares:
Dr. Dev [06:15]: "The King will only get better if he drinks a healthy heaping Helping of milk from a bull."
This bizarre prescription—a task that defies logical possibilities—sets Sai on a desperate quest, as it's biologically impossible to obtain milk from a male bovine.
Sai’s Dilemma and Neera’s Insight
Conflicted by Dr. Dev’s demand, Sai seeks counsel from his daughter, Neera, a resourceful and intelligent young woman voiced by Marielle Heller. Neera quickly discerns Dr. Dev’s ulterior motives. At [10:25], Neera confronts her father:
Neera [10:26]: "The King is supposed to drink milk from a bull and he wants you to bring it to him?"
Realizing the absurdity of the task, Neera devises a plan to uncover the truth behind Dr. Dev's dubious cure.
Exposing Dr. Dev’s Deception
Equipped with dirty laundry items—blankets, a washboard, and wooden paddles—Neera sets a clever trap. As detailed at [14:17], she creates a ruckus near Dr. Dev's room to draw him out:
Neera [15:03]: "I came to the river to wash them."
Caught in her own web of lies, Dr. Dev is exposed when Neera challenges his claim that a bull can produce milk, paralleling it with the impossibility of a male animal bearing young. At [16:16], Neera articulately dismantles his deception:
Neera [16:32]: "If a bull can make milk, then why can't a male have a baby?"
This confrontation culminates with the king arriving and witnessing the unraveling of Dr. Dev’s plot. The enraged king banishes Dr. Dev from the palace, as recounted at [17:42]:
The King [17:42]: "Dr. Dev, is that true?"
Neera’s Second Challenge and Triumph
Impressed by Neera’s ingenuity, the king decides to test her further. He presents her with another seemingly impossible task: fitting an entire cabbage into a narrow-necked jar without altering its form. Initially perplexed, Neera employs her creativity over three months to accomplish this feat. At [22:12], she reveals her method:
Neera [22:22]: "I planted some cabbage seeds... the seedling grew into a cabbage... and once the cabbage filled the entire jar, I cut off the stem and brought it here."
Ascension to Royal Advisor
The king, recognizing Neera's exceptional wit and problem-solving abilities, appoints her as the new royal advisor, succeeding Sai. This transition marks a new era for the kingdom, highlighting the value of intelligence and innovation. Sai gracefully steps down, proud of his daughter's accomplishments, as noted at [23:51]:
Sai [23:51]: "I've been ready for years, your majesty. And I couldn't think of a more suitable replacement."
Notable Quotes
- Dr. Dev [06:15]: "The King will only get better if he drinks a healthy heaping Helping of milk from a bull."
- Neera [16:32]: "If a bull can make milk, then why can't a male have a baby?"
- Neera [22:22]: "I planted some cabbage seeds... the seedling grew into a cabbage... and once the cabbage filled the entire jar, I cut off the stem and brought it here."
- Sai [23:51]: "I've been ready for years, your majesty. And I couldn't think of a more suitable replacement."
Cast and Musical Accompaniment
The episode features a distinguished cast:
- Michael Bobbitt as the King: A theater director and playwright known for his dynamic performances.
- Marielle Heller as Neera: An acclaimed director and actress bringing depth to the role of Sai’s clever daughter.
- Omar Effendom as Dr. Dev: A versatile actor portraying the villainous medical advisor.
- Jorma Taccone as Sai: Member of the Lonely Island comedy trio, delivering warmth and wisdom.
Complementing the narrative is the musical prowess of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by composer Eric Shyamalonis. The ensemble, including Kathy Basrak on viola and Chris El Chico on clarinet, enriches the story with a vibrant auditory backdrop.
Conclusion and Activity
"Milk from a Bull" is a testament to the power of creativity and intelligence in overcoming challenges. As Neera demonstrates, thinking beyond conventional boundaries can lead to extraordinary solutions. The episode concludes with an engaging activity encouraging listeners to create their own whimsical combinations, fostering imagination and critical thinking.
Listener Feedback
Listeners shared their favorite Circle Round stories, highlighting the show's broad appeal and the impactful storytelling that resonates across ages. From "The Farmer and the Cow" to "The Fantastic Fiddle," each tale nurtures important values and sparks meaningful conversations between children and adults.
Final Thoughts
Circle Round continues to enchant its audience with stories that are not only entertaining but also educational and thought-provoking. "Milk from a Bull" exemplifies the show's mission to adapt folktales into rich, engaging radio plays that inspire and delight listeners of all ages.
For more stories, activities, and to join the Circle Round Club, visit WBUR.org/circleround.