The Soldier and the Devil

Summary

Stories Podcast: "The Soldier and the Devil" – Episode Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages
• Host/Author: Starglow Media / Wondery
• Episode: The Soldier and the Devil
• Release Date: July 11, 2025

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Introduction

In this enchanting episode of Stories Podcast, hosted by Amanda Weldon and produced by Starglow Media in collaboration with Wondery, listeners are transported into the heart of a classic Czech folktale titled "The Soldier and the Devil." Adapted for audio by Daniel Hines and translated by Josef Bautis, this story weaves themes of generosity, courage, and the battle between good and evil, making it a perfect bedtime tale for children and families alike.

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Story Overview

A Soldier’s Generosity

The story begins with a soldier, weary yet hopeful, embarking on his journey home after years of noble service. With only three pennies left, he's determined to reach his parents, having already sent most of his earnings ahead for their safety.

• Notable Quote:
  Amanda Weldon narrates at [00:38]:
  “The war has made us all worse off. I'm happy to help.”

As the soldier traverses a dense forest, he encounters three beggars, each representing different sufferings caused by the war.

1. The Old Woman Beggar ([00:11] - [05:22]):
   A frail woman whose fields were destroyed by soldiers, desperately seeking a penny for bread. The soldier generously shares one penny, showcasing his compassionate nature.

2. The Sick Old Man ([05:22] - [06:03]):
   A feverish man afflicted by the flu spread by troops. Despite his illness, the soldier gives another penny, advising him to recover without fear of further harm.

3. The Young Man with a Wooden Foot ([06:03] - [07:22]):
   A shipwrecked sailor who lost his foot to a cannonball and crafted a wooden prosthetic. Empathizing with the potential loss of his own foot, the soldier donates his last penny, ensuring the young man can ferry across a distant river to reunite with his sister.

Divine Intervention

Unbeknownst to the soldier, his acts of kindness have not gone unnoticed.

• Angel’s Appearance ([06:41] - [07:57]):
  An angel, moved by the soldier's bravery and fairness, grants him two magical gifts:

  • A Magical Bag: Capable of containing anything the bearer wishes.
  • An Endless Coin Purse: Providing an infinite supply of pennies.

• Notable Quote:
  Amanda Weldon at [06:43]:
  “I will give you what you need to get home safely.”

Encounters with the Supernatural

Backed by his divine gifts, the soldier's journey becomes extraordinary.

1. Confronting the Imp ([08:59] - [10:18]):
   Staying at a farmhouse plagued by a demon-like imp, the soldier effortlessly subdues the creature using his magical bag, demonstrating resourcefulness and strength.

2. Encounter at the Inn ([12:35] - [15:24]):
   At an inn, the soldier faces a cunning card shark who tries to cheat him. Utilizing his endless coins, he outsmarts her, ensuring honesty prevails.

3. The Final Challenge – Confronting Death ([15:38] - [17:36]):
   Near his home, the soldier encounters Death itself, aiming to claim his mother's life. Courageously, he summons the magical bag to trap Death, preventing harm to his family. This act reinforces the story’s central theme of protecting loved ones and standing against evil.

• Notable Quote:
  Amanda Weldon at [16:04]:
  “Death as part of the natural cycle, you know.”

Resolution and Moral

The angel returns to reclaim the magical bag, explaining the necessity of Death in the world’s balance. The soldier, having fulfilled his journey with unwavering kindness and bravery, bids farewell to the angel, retaining the endless coin purse as a token of his enduring generosity.

• Notable Quote:
  Amanda Weldon at [17:36]:
  “That makes sense. But keep him away from me and my parents for a long time, eh? I just got home.”

The soldier reunites with his family, and they live happily ever after, underscoring the story's moral: True heroism lies in kindness, courage, and the willingness to help others selflessly.

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Conclusion

"The Soldier and the Devil" serves as a captivating narrative that blends folklore with timeless lessons. Through the soldier's journey, young listeners learn the importance of generosity, resilience, and the triumph of good over evil. Amanda Weldon's engaging storytelling, complemented by Daniel Hines' narration, brings this Czech folktale to life, making it a cherished addition to the Stories Podcast collection.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Generosity to the Old Woman:
  Amanda Weldon [00:38]: “The war has made us all worse off. I'm happy to help.”

• Angel’s Revelation:
  Amanda Weldon [06:43]: “I will give you what you need to get home safely.”

• Understanding Death’s Role:
  Amanda Weldon [17:36]: “That makes sense. But keep him away from me and my parents for a long time, eh? I just got home.”

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re listening during a family car ride or seeking to reduce screen time, Stories Podcast offers a rich auditory experience that fosters imagination and imparts valuable life lessons. "The Soldier and the Devil" is a testament to the power of storytelling in shaping young minds and nurturing family bonds.

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Transcript

[Daniel Hines]

Hello. Welcome to Stories Podcast.

[Amanda Weldon]

I'm your host, Amanda Weldon. Today's story is called the Soldier and the Devil, a Czech folktale translated by.

[Daniel Hines]

Josef Bautis and adapted for audio by Daniel Hines. We have Stories Podcast merch, [e-mail] shop. We're also on Cameo for all of your personalized video message needs. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram oriespodcast. If you send us a drawing of your favorite scene or character, we'll share it on our feed. Now, here's a word from our sponsors the scariest part of summer isn't the.

[Amanda Weldon]

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[Daniel Hines]

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[Daniel Hines]

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[Amanda Weldon]

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[Daniel Hines]

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[Daniel Hines]

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[Daniel Hines]

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[Amanda Weldon]

Devil Once upon a time, in a distant kingdom, there was a soldier. He was making his way, one boot after the other, through a wooded trail, whistling and at peace, because after long years of noble service, a loyal soldier was finally going home. He had done his duty, fought in his share of battles, and now he was on the road, happy and free. He had sent most of his money ahead to his parents to keep safe for him, so he only had three pennies in his pocket. And as he was going through a forest, he met a beggar. It was an old woman, frail and shaky. She explained that during the war her fields had been trampled into mud by soldiers. She had nothing to eat and wanted a penny to buy herself a loaf of bread. Of course, said the soldier, giving her one of his three pennies. The war has made us all worse off. I'm happy to help. Oh, thank you, the woman said, and she gave the soldier a hug as he continued on down the road. Not more than a mile later, the soldier came upon another beggar. This was an older man with salt and pepper hair and a dark gray beard. He was clearly sick, feverish and coughing, and he explained that the masses of troops from the war coming and going, had spread the flu like wildfire. He would recover, but he needed a penny to get some medicine to drop his fever. Of course, said the soldier, throwing the man one of his two remaining pennies so he wouldn't get close enough to catch a fever. Take this coin and get well, brother. I saw worse fevers in the war. Remember, drink plenty of water and don't let them put leeches on you. Thank you, said the man weakly, his sick voice like the croak of a frog. He tried to say more, but it hurt too much to speak, so he gathered the coin and headed for the nearest healer he knew. The soldier watched him go and then continued down the road. An hour or so later, he came upon another beggar. This one was a young man probably the same age as the soldier.

[Daniel Hines]

He was sat up against a tree.

[Amanda Weldon]

And the soldier could see that he had a wooden foot. The young man explained he was serving on a ship during the war and lost his foot to a cannonball. The ship's doctor wasn't the best, so he ended up with a peg leg, but he was a clever woodcarver and had made himself a foot instead.

[Daniel Hines]

He was going to stay with his.

[Amanda Weldon]

Sister, but he needed a penny for the ferry over a distant river. Of course, brother, said the soldier, feeling for this fellow. The soldier knew that with just a tiny twist of bad luck, he could be the one missing a foot. After all, how many cannons did he see during the war? Here's my last penny. I'm happy to give it.

[Daniel Hines]

Are you sure?

[Amanda Weldon]

Asked the young man. I see you're a soldier too, and I'd hate to leave you with nothing. I sent my money home, the soldier said. I'll be good once I get there. Just as you'll be good at your sisters. Take the coin and go in peace. Thanks and respect, brother, the young man said, taking the coin in a different trail that wound up at the ferry. The soldier nodded and continued on his way home. And all this time, he didn't know it, but there was an angel watching over him. The angel had seen the soldier behave bravely and fairly all through the terrible war. And now, on his way home, his generosity continued.

[Daniel Hines]

The angel was so moved, she appeared.

[Amanda Weldon]

To the man in a flash of white light. It was so bright, the soldier couldn't look directly at it.

[Daniel Hines]

Hello.

[Amanda Weldon]

He shouted.

[Daniel Hines]

Who are you?

[Amanda Weldon]

What is this magic? I am an angel, and I've come to reward you for being such a good man. Reward me? I only did what any man would do. The angel laughed and smiled. The fact that you think that means I am right to choose you. I will give you what you need to get home safely. The first item is a bag, and you can tell anything to get in the bag and it will fly in right away. The other is a coin purse full of pennies that will never run dry when I'm gone. Look on the ground here and be well. The light flashed brighter and then slowly faded away. When the soldier got his vision back, he saw a large backpack and a small coin purse, just as the angel had described. He put the backpack on and found it comfortable and light. He opened the coin purse and saw only a single penny. Confused, he pulled it out and then saw another penny appear where the first had been. It was an endless penny at a time.

[Daniel Hines]

Thank you.

[Amanda Weldon]

The soldier called, but there was no one to answer but the tweeting of the birds. Still a little stunned and noticing the sun dipping low in the sky, the soldier decided he better find a place to sleep for the night. Luckily, as he continued down the road, he soon came to a farmhouse. The owners were out front, sitting on rocking chairs on their porch, and they waved as the soldier approached. Hello soldier, they said. What can we do for you? Hello friends. I'm just looking for a warm and dry place to sleep the night. I was wondering if I could make a bed in the hay of your barn. The couple looked at each other, faces worried. You're welcome to the barn, the man said, but we think there's some kind of demon or imp in there. I know it sounds strange, but our chickens all passed and it smells like brimstone. That's fine, said the soldier, thinking of his angel. I'll still sleep there if it's alright with you. It is, said the woman.

[Daniel Hines]

But please be careful.

[Amanda Weldon]

Of course, said the soldier, and as the sun fell, he made his way into the barn. Right away he could smell the boiled egg smell of sulfur and the hot reek of brimstone. Evil smells still. He laid his jacket down on the hay and put his backpack next to him with the lid open. Before long he saw angry red eyes peering at him from the dark. A creature limped forward on spindly limbs like a daddy long legs spider. Its mouth was a dusty crusty circle and its skin looked like an old fire, ashy on top with glowing embers underneath. But the soldier wasn't afraid. You've made a mistake coming here. Hissed the little imp, its long legs making its way slowly across the barn.

[Daniel Hines]

Ha.

[Amanda Weldon]

I don't think so. Said the soldier with a little laugh. Imp, get in my bag. The imp grunted and flew through the air with a whirl of magic, we with one last rattling gasp, it disappeared into the depths of the soldier's backpack. Satisfied, the soldier closed the pack and went to sleep. Now for a quick ad break.

[Daniel Hines]

We'll be back with the rest of the story after this. If you'd like Stories Podcast and other favorite kid podcasts ad free. Subscribe to Wondery Kids on Apple Podcasts. The scariest part of summer isn't the sunburn.

[Amanda Weldon]

It's the spending. There are the last minute road trips.

[Daniel Hines]

Pricey snack hauls and bottomless SPF restocks, and your wallet's feeling the heat. Cool it with doordash and save big on your seasonal must haves. During summer of DashPass ice cream is my favorite treat in the summertime. And when it gets simply too hot to move, I love to doordash a sundae from one of the ice cream places nearby. DoorDash has a huge selection of ice cream options near me, plus anything else I could ever want so I never have to go without an icy dessert on a hot summer night and it won't break the bank. Starting June 26, Summer of DashPass is your excuse to stock up on all things summer. Sunscreen, headphones, watermelon, whatever's in your cart and get it with $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible orders. Sign up for DashPass now if you aren't already a member and enjoy a summer full of savings. Check daily for massive summer savings on restaurants, groceries and brands. From June 26 through July 30. DashPass benefits apply only to eligible orders. Terms apply.

[C]

One of my favorite things to do in the summertime is head to the movies to see the newest blockbuster and this summer is no different. On July 18, you can count on me to be the first in line at the theater to see Smurfs. I loved the Smurfs when I was little. In this movie, Papa Smurf is mysteriously taken by evil wizards and Smurfette, my favorite, obviously has to le lead the Smurfs on a mission to save him and the universe. That already sounds amazing, but get Smurfette is voiced by none other than Rihanna Rhianna and she is joined by some of my very favorites like John Goodman, Octavia Spencer, Natasha Lyonne, Nick Kroll, Amy Sedaris and more. Smurfs is an action packed adventure that focuses on friendship, teamwork, finding yourself and being kind to each other. Truly something for everyone to enjoy. This is the perfect film for the entire family to see this summer. Filled with lots of comedy, heart and new music from DJ Khaled, Cardi B and of course Rihanna. I can't wait. Smurfs in theaters July 18th he slept.

[Amanda Weldon]

Well with not so much as a mouse to disturb him since they'd all been scared off by the imp long ago. The next morning he came out of the barn, rested and ready and told the old couple he'd captured their imp.

[Daniel Hines]

You what?

[Amanda Weldon]

Said the old man.

[Daniel Hines]

How?

[Amanda Weldon]

Magic bag. Said the soldier with a wink, not really caring if they believed him. Say, is there a blacksmith nearby? The farmer told him there was and the soldier headed over to the blacksmith's forge. He told the blacksmith he'd caught an imp that needed punishing and the blacksmith had him dump the monster right into the stone forge and then slammed the door. He'll stay good and hot in there and think about what he's done, said the soldier. And my forge will run a little hotter for a while, said the blacksmith, shaking his hand. Thanks again, brother. The soldier nodded and then continued on his way home. The whole next day he walked without incident, though he did stop to give a few more beggars pennies from his never ending pouch. That night he found a little inn and tried to get a room. Oh, sorry, said the innkeeper. A burly man polishing a glass with a red smock just rented the last room to that lady there.

[Daniel Hines]

He gestured at a fancy looking lady.

[Amanda Weldon]

Sitting at a table with a drink, shuffling a deck of cards in front of her. She caught the soldier's eye and waved him over. Sorry I took the last room, she said. But hey, I'll play you for it. Cards? Asked the soldier.

[Daniel Hines]

Like most soldiers, he had a lot.

[Amanda Weldon]

Of downtime and had played a lot of cards. He recognized that the woman was a card shark, meaning someone who might try to cheat him. But he'd seen all the tricks before. Well, most of them. All right, he said. What's the deal? The woman smiled. I bet I can win every coin in your purse before you can win a hand. If I do, I keep all the money. If you win even once, you get your money back. And the room.

[Daniel Hines]

How's that? The soldier thought of his magic purse.

[Amanda Weldon]

And laughed to himself. Sister, you've got a deal. They played cards for the next hour. The woman won hand after hand, but the soldier kept coming up with more coins. The card shark thought she was in for a big payday, but the soldier was watching her closely. Finally he realized she had marked the cards. Scuffs in the corner meant diamonds, a little cross in the pattern was an ace, and so on. Once he broke her code, he won the next hand, leaving the woman flabbergasted.

[Daniel Hines]

How? Why, good job, I guess.

[Amanda Weldon]

The soldier laughed and pushed a few coins towards her. Thanks for the company, he said. You keep the coins and promise not to try and cheat anyone else.

[Daniel Hines]

Yeah.

[Amanda Weldon]

The woman blushed, but she knew she'd been caught. She took the few coins and nodded. Fleeing the inn, the soldier took her room and slept well that night with sweet dreams. The next day, he knew he'd reach home.

[Daniel Hines]

He was so excited that he was.

[Amanda Weldon]

Rushing down the roads and trails, each one becoming more and more familiar as he got closer to where he had grown up.

[Daniel Hines]

Finally, he burst off the road and.

[Amanda Weldon]

Into his own yard, where he froze in fear. There, reaching for his parents door, was the Grim Reaper, Death himself. The soldier was stunned for a moment.

[Daniel Hines]

How could he see Death?

[Amanda Weldon]

Then he realized the angel's gifts must have given him an extra sight. Steeling himself, he marched up to his parents house and pushed the door shut before Death could open it. Not here, he said.

[D]

Who are you to interfere with Death?

[Amanda Weldon]

Said the figure from the depths of his black robes.

[D]

Your mother is sick. It is her time. Move or I'll take you too.

[Amanda Weldon]

The soldier wouldn't let his mother go, not after he'd just made it home. So he thought fast, smiled, and said, death, get in my bag. And with a terrible swirling roaring rush, Death was sucked into the backpack. The soldier buckled it shut and then went inside to greet his parents.

[Daniel Hines]

They hugged him with tears of joy.

[Amanda Weldon]

In their eyes and all sat down to an amazing dinner together where the soldier told them all his stories of war and the road. The next day though, there was a knock at the door at the crack of dawn. The soldier answered it and was surprised to see the same angel who had given him the gifts. Hello friend, he said. What can I do for you? The angel stood awkwardly. Well, you seem to have captured death.

[Daniel Hines]

In your bag, and the world needs.

[Amanda Weldon]

Death as part of the natural cycle, you know. Makes sense, said the soldier. So I need to take the bag back, said the angel.

[Daniel Hines]

We can't have life without Death.

[Amanda Weldon]

That makes sense, said the soldier. But keep him away from me and my parents for a long time, eh? I just got home. That's a deal, said the angel with a smile. She took the bag from the soldier and it disappeared into her robes. Keep the money though, and have a nice life. You too, called the soldier as the angel disappeared into the air. The soldier turned around and closed the door.

[Daniel Hines]

Who was that?

[Amanda Weldon]

Asked his mom. Just an old friend, said the soldier. Nothing to worry about. And then they all sat down for breakfast and they lived happily ever after. The End Today's story, the Soldier and the Devil, was a Czech folktale translated.

[Daniel Hines]

For you by Joseph Bautus and adapted for audio by Daniel Hines. It was edited and produced by Andrew Martin and performed for you by me, Amanda Weldon. If you would like to support Stories podcast, you can leave us a five star review on iTunes. Check out all of our merch [e-mail] Shop Commission a special video on Cameo. Follow us on Instagram at Stories Podcast or simply tell your friends about us. Thanks for listening.