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Transcript20 lines

[00:01]
Narrator
Hello.
[00:02]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Welcome to Stories Podcast.
[00:04]
Amanda Weldon
I'm your host, Amanda Weldon.
[00:07]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Today's story is a throwback episode. Tune in to hear one of our classic stories from the archive that you might have missed the first time around. We have Stories Podcast merch, available@storiespodcast.com 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
[00:36]
Amanda Weldon
I am always on a journey to make my home work better for me and my family, and Wayfair makes it easy to find exactly what fits my style and needs. The decor in my home has always been what one might call eclectic, which is a nice way of saying none of my stuff really goes together. For the most part, my furniture has always been a combination of hand me downs from family, friends, thrift store finds and side of the road scores. But I've been wanting to streamline my aesthetic and Wayfair has really made it possible for me to hone in on what I like. And it turns out what I like is whimsical fairy princess decor. At least in my daughter's bedroom anyway. When I searched for children's bedroom furniture on Wayfair, I immediately found what I was looking for and got my daughter an adorable bed shaped like a house with a canopy on top. There were actually a few variations available and I was able to find one that fit our space and budget perfectly. It came in the mail super fast and was really easy to put together and feels really solid and safe now that it's all in one piece, just like all the five star reviews said it would. I love the way it looks, but more importantly, Birdie loves the way it looks and bedtime has been just a little bit easier since her new bed arrived. Find furniture, decor and essentials that fit your unique style and budget. Head to Wayfair.com right now to search all things home. That's W-A-F-A-I-R.com Wayfair Every style, every Home these days I'm all about quality over quantity, especially in my closet. If it's not well made and versatile, it's just not worth it to me. That's why I love Quince. The fabrics feel elevated, the cuts are thoughtful, and the pricing actually makes sense. Quince uses 100% European linen, their cotton poplin is crisp and holds its shape. The gauze is soft without being flimsy. Their lightweight cotton cashmere sweaters are perfect for the changing seasons. Versatile, well made pieces that make getting dressed simple. Everything Quince makes is built to hold up season after season. The stitching, the fit, the fabrics. These are pieces you'll reach for over and over. Speaking of over and over, you've heard me talk about it before, but I can't say enough good things about my featherless quilted long puffer coat that I got from Quince a few months ago. Spring is right around the corner, but it doesn't feel like it right now in the Northeast. I am still wearing my cozy quince coat every day with no end in sight and it is really holding up. My favorite thing of all is that Quints works directly with safe, ethical factories and cuts out the middlemen. You're not paying for brand markup or fancy retail stores, just quality clothing right now. Go to quince.com stories for free shipping and 365 day returns. That's a full year to wear it and love it. And you will now available in Canada too. Don't keep settling for clothes that don't last. Go to quince.com stories for free shipping and 365 day returns. Quince.com stories as schedules fill up with activities, travel and spring events, it can be challenging to make learning consistent. IXL makes it simple to stay on track with focused, flexible practice that fits your routine. IXL is an award winning online learning platform that fits seamlessly into homeschooling. It offers interactive practice across math, language arts, science and social studies from Pre K through 12th grade. IXL personalizes learning for each child, keeps them engaged, and gives parents clear insight into progress. IXL's interactive practice and clear explanations make it easy to reinforce learning as you prepare for end of year assessments or milestones. Everything is organized by grade and subject so you can quickly find what each child needs without juggling multiple resources. Over 15 million students use IXL. More than 75 research studies show it delivers real results and it's been proven to improve achievement in all 50 states, giving homeschool families added confidence. Make an impact on your child's learning. Get IXL now and stories. Podcast listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today with www.ixl.com dragon to get the most effective learning program out there at the best price.
[04:47]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Thanks. Enjoy the episode
[04:51]
Narrator
A Hercules Fable Once upon a time in ancient Greece, a wagon trundled across the countryside. There wasn't a road exactly so the ride was long and bumpy. Most people preferred to travel by sea, but some places couldn't be reached by the water, and hard working wagoners could make good coin taking the dirty trip over land. Cleon was a wagoner. Whether he was a hard working one remained to be seen. This was his first trip. He was only a boy, but he'd inherited the wagon from his uncle. It wasn't great as far as wagons go. The wheels were squeaky and creaky, its white canopy grayed with age. Cleon's horse was showing some age as well. His wavy black mane was humbly sparse and dusted with gray. Come on, Hercules, pick up those feet. Cleon called, flicking the reins. He had named the horse Hercules when he was a kid. It had seemed a good strong name. Now, though, with the horse old and slow, it felt more like an ironic joke. Pick up the pace, you old nag. He called again. The horse looked over his shoulder, saw Cleon lounging comfortably on the wagon seat, and gave the boy a dirty look. Don't start with me, Hercules. We've got to get these olives to Sparta before the festival or our buyer won't give us half as much money. With a humph, Hercules picked up his pace, trotting the wagon up and down the long and bumpy road. Cleon began to relax a little. They were making good time. His mind began to wander. The reins held loosely, enjoying the glow of the sun on his olive skin. Of course, he should have been watching the road, but he was still a boy, and boys are nothing if not easily distracted. So he was completely taken by surprise when the wagon suddenly jerked to a halt and tipped forward, spilling Cleon yelping into a big mu puddle. Splash. What the. Hercules, Come on. He stood up, scooping fat handfuls of mud from his eyes and pulling clods of it from his curly hair. Hercules whinnied loud and long. To Cleon's ears it sounded suspiciously like a laugh. Real funny, you big lug. Why'd you stop like that as soon as he asked? He could see his answer, though. Water had pooled in a low spot in the road, forming the mud puddle. The rear wheels of the wagon, laden heavy with casks of olives, had sunk into the marshy ground and gotten stuck. With a sigh, Cleon pulled himself back onto the wagon seat. A cold glob of mud slid down his back and he shuddered, miserable. All right, Hercules, get us out of here, he said, taking the reins. Hercules blew air through his lips in a tired trill. He pushed his hooves hard into the mud and strained against his harness. The wagon rocked forward, but didn't budge. Hercules, we need to make the festival. Come on. The old horse pulled harder, head down and legs shaking with effort. The wagon rocked forward an inch, two inches, and then slid back into the muddy rut with a splash. Hercules whinnied, defeated. No. We can't be stuck. Cleon cried, burying his head in his hands. If they didn't make it before the festival, his olives wouldn't sell for nearly as much, and the whole trip would be a waste. Hercules, come on, pull. He shouted.
[08:11]
Singer
Ugh.
[08:12]
Narrator
If only I had the real Hercules here, he'd be able to get us free. Looking for me? Said a voice from beside the wagon. Cleon was so surprised, he nearly tumbled back into the mud. What? Who said that? From thin air appeared a mountain of a man. He was over 6ft tall, with shoulders broad as a barge. His muscles were hulking and so solid, Cleon thought they may have been chiseled from marble by some master's hand. Astonished, he realized this man could only be one person. Hercules, he said, mouth hanging open. That's right, Hercules said, stooping down to look at the wagon's wheels stuck in the mud. So you need a little help, huh? Cleon was surprised, but in those days, the Greek gods and demigods often visited normal people, so he wasn't as scared as he might have been otherwise. I was just yelling at my horse, Cleon said, rubbing his neck in embarrassment. I. I named him Hercules. The real Hercules arched an eyebrow at him. Uh, big fan. Hercules laughed and clapped Cleon on the shoulder. The demigod meant it as a friendly gesture, but he was so strong, it nearly knocked Cleon right off the wagon. No harm done. He looks like a good, strong horse after all. Now you need help moving this old wagon? Yes, Cleon said. We're stuck. And Herc, I mean, my horse isn't strong enough to get us out. Have you tried pushing yourself free? Well, no. I figured the horse should be able to do it. So you want help? But you haven't even tried to help yourself yet. Well, I guess not. But now that you're here, can't you just, you know. Cleon mimed Hercules, lifting the wagon with one mighty hand. I could, but that would reward your whining. If you want help, you're going to have to contribute. What? What do you mean? Cleon asked. I mean, get your lazy bum off that wagon and push. I'll pull from the front, but I'm a demigod, not your servant, so you better help. But you're Hercules. You don't need my help. I don't. But I'm also not in the business of doing things for lazy children. You'll help, or I'll just head on back to Mount Olympus. Hercules began to fuzz around the edges, as though he may disappear at any instant. No, no, of course I'll help. Cleon said, scrambling off the wagon and running to the back.
[10:34]
Stories Podcast Announcer
I'll push.
[10:34]
Narrator
I'll push, all right. Called Hercules from the front of the wagon. Are you ready? Ready.
[10:42]
Singer
And it's one to heave your shoulder to the wheel. Want to leave? Then you gotta show some steel. Put your back into it and dirty up those hands. You just power through it and make real all your plans. But before you ask for help, before you whine and cry it's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try. And it's one to heave your shoulder to the wheel. Don't just grieve you've gotta plant your heels, put your back into it and dirty up those hands. You just power through it and make real all your plans. But before you ask for help, before you whine and cry it's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try. It's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try.
[11:38]
Narrator
With Hercules encouragement, Cleon planted his feet and put all his strength into getting the wagon's wheels rolling. He heaved once, and they rocked back. He heaved again, and the wagon seemed to lift and stand still. And with one final heave, the wagon wheel came free of the mud with a squelch, and the wagon rolled forward a few feet back onto the dry road.
[11:59]
Singer
We did it.
[12:01]
Narrator
Cleon said, panting. Good job, kid, said Hercules from the top of the wagon. Cleon looked up and saw the demigod lounging in his seat. He'd helped himself to a handful of fat, purple olives and was eating them with a smile. Hey, you didn't even help. Well, help can mean a few different things. Can it? Said Hercules, hopping down from the wagon gracefully. I helped you with a lesson. He munched a few olives. Oh, yeah? Said Cleon, rubbing his shoulder. What lesson is that? Don't ask for help until you've tried to help yourself. If you'd stopped complaining and just got out and pushed you, you'd have been on your way already. I. I guess that's true, Cleon said. Course it is, said Hercules. So what are you going to do next time you get stuck? I'm going to try, try, try before I ask for help. Smart kid, hercules said. He walked over and patted the horse Hercules on the neck. Take care of the kid, Herc. He's still learning. The horse gave a happy whinny in response. Hercules laughed, winked at Cleon, and disappeared. Cleon blinked and then shook his head. All right, buddy, he said to his horse. Lesson learned. Now how about we get these olives to the festival? Hercules whinnied in reply, and the wagon was soon bumping and rolling down the road to Sparta.
[13:22]
Singer
And it's one to heave shoulder to the wheel.
[13:26]
Narrator
One, two, leave the End
[13:31]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Today's story,
[13:31]
Amanda Weldon
A Hercules Fable, was an adaptation of a Greek myth written for you by
[13:36]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Daniel Hines and performed for your by Kelsey Lee, with songs by them both. If you would like to support Stories podcast, you can leave us a five star review on iTunes. Check out all of our merch available@storiespodcast.com Shop Commission a special video on Cameo, follow us on Instagram Stories Podcast or simply tell your friends about us. Thanks for listening.

Summary4 min read

Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages

Episode: Throwback: A Hercules Fable

Host: Amanda Weldon (Starglow Media)
Released: March 19, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode features a lively retelling of "A Hercules Fable," an adaptation of a classic Greek myth centered on themes of self-reliance, perseverance, and the value of trying before asking for help. Through the adventures of a young wagoner named Cleon, his aging horse Hercules, and a magical encounter with the real demigod Hercules, young listeners learn a timeless lesson wrapped in humor, catchy songs, and warm-hearted storytelling.

Key Discussion Points & Story Highlights

1. Introduction to Cleon, the Wagoner (04:50–06:30)

Setting: Ancient Greece. Cleon, a young, inexperienced wagoner, is traveling to Sparta to sell olives with his old horse Hercules.
Character Development: Cleon's position as a novice is established—he's inherited his uncle's rickety wagon and leans toward laziness and distraction.
Quote:

“He had named the horse Hercules when he was a kid. It had seemed a good strong name. Now, though, with the horse old and slow, it felt more like an ironic joke.” (05:30, Narrator)

2. The Wagon Gets Stuck! (06:30–08:10)

Plot Point: The wagon gets caught in a muddy rut while Cleon is not paying attention, leading to a comical and relatable moment as Cleon is splashed into the mud.
Dialogue Highlights: Cleon scolds his horse, who seems to respond with a suspiciously amused whinny.

3. The Magical Arrival of Hercules (08:10–09:50)

Turning Point: Cleon, in frustration, wishes aloud for the real Hercules. Suddenly, the legendary (and gigantic) Hercules appears beside the wagon.
Quote:

"From thin air appeared a mountain of a man... Astonished, he realized this man could only be one person. 'Hercules,' he said, mouth hanging open." (08:52, Narrator)

4. The Lesson of Helping Yourself (09:50–11:37)

Theme: Hercules is willing to lend a hand, but only if Cleon tries to help himself first—refusing to do all the work for a "lazy child."
Key Exchange:

“Have you tried pushing yourself free?” – Hercules (09:32)
“Well, no. I figured the horse should be able to do it.” – Cleon (09:34)
“So you want help? … But you haven’t even tried to help yourself yet.” – Hercules (09:37)
Memorable Moment: Hercules’ joking, almost magical warning of disappearing if Cleon won’t participate, prompting Cleon to jump in and help.

5. Song: "Try, Try, Try" (10:42–11:37)

Message: Before seeking help, always attempt to solve the problem first. The song is upbeat, memorable, and repeats the central lesson.
Chorus Sample:

"But before you ask for help, before you whine and cry, it's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try." (10:50–11:25, Singer/Chorus)

6. The Wagons Rolls Free – and So Does the Moral (11:37–12:55)

Resolution: With teamwork (and Hercules’ encouragement), Cleon manages to free the wagon from the mud.
Humorous Twist: Cleon notices Hercules seems to have been nibbling olives instead of truly pulling, revealing "help" comes in many forms—sometimes as guidance, not just muscle.
Quote:

“Well, help can mean a few different things, can it?” – Hercules (12:10)
“I helped you with a lesson.” – Hercules (12:14)
Message Recap: “Don’t ask for help until you’ve tried to help yourself.” (12:19, Hercules)

7. Story Wrap-Up and Takeaway (12:55–13:25)

Cleon's Growth: Cleon promises to “try, try, try” next time he’s stuck, showing he’s absorbed the lesson.
Farewell: Hercules gives final encouragement to Cleon and his horse, with a magical wink before vanishing.
Closing Line:

“All right, buddy… Lesson learned. Now how about we get these olives to the festival?” – Cleon (13:15)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Hercules Teaches Self-Reliance:

"If you want help, you're going to have to contribute… I'm a demigod, not your servant." – Hercules (09:56)
Positive Self-Talk:

“I’m going to try, try, try before I ask for help!” – Cleon (12:40)
Song Chorus (recurring and uplifting):

“It's important you try for yourself, yeah, try, try, try!” (11:25/13:21, Chorus)

Essential Timestamps

04:50 – Story begins: Introduction to Cleon and Hercules the horse
06:30 – Wagon gets stuck; Cleon lands in mud
08:10 – Magical arrival of the “real” Hercules
09:50 – Hercules challenges Cleon to try before seeking help
10:42 – "Try, Try, Try" motivational song
11:37 – Wagon comes free; Hercules delivers the lesson
12:40 – Cleon repeats the lesson: “try, try, try”
13:21 – Song reprise and story end

Tone & Audience

Whimsical, warm, humorous, and gently instructive.
Tailored for children and families—fun storytelling with a kindly delivered moral.

Takeaway Lesson

The story imparts a timeless lesson: Always try your best to solve a problem yourself before expecting help from others. Sometimes, help comes as encouragement and guidance, not just a quick fix.

Loading summary

Transcript20 lines

[00:01]
Narrator
Hello.
[00:02]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Welcome to Stories Podcast.
[00:04]
Amanda Weldon
I'm your host, Amanda Weldon.
[00:07]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Today's story is a throwback episode. Tune in to hear one of our classic stories from the archive that you might have missed the first time around. We have Stories Podcast merch, available@storiespodcast.com 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
[00:36]
Amanda Weldon
I am always on a journey to make my home work better for me and my family, and Wayfair makes it easy to find exactly what fits my style and needs. The decor in my home has always been what one might call eclectic, which is a nice way of saying none of my stuff really goes together. For the most part, my furniture has always been a combination of hand me downs from family, friends, thrift store finds and side of the road scores. But I've been wanting to streamline my aesthetic and Wayfair has really made it possible for me to hone in on what I like. And it turns out what I like is whimsical fairy princess decor. At least in my daughter's bedroom anyway. When I searched for children's bedroom furniture on Wayfair, I immediately found what I was looking for and got my daughter an adorable bed shaped like a house with a canopy on top. There were actually a few variations available and I was able to find one that fit our space and budget perfectly. It came in the mail super fast and was really easy to put together and feels really solid and safe now that it's all in one piece, just like all the five star reviews said it would. I love the way it looks, but more importantly, Birdie loves the way it looks and bedtime has been just a little bit easier since her new bed arrived. Find furniture, decor and essentials that fit your unique style and budget. Head to Wayfair.com right now to search all things home. That's W-A-F-A-I-R.com Wayfair Every style, every Home these days I'm all about quality over quantity, especially in my closet. If it's not well made and versatile, it's just not worth it to me. That's why I love Quince. The fabrics feel elevated, the cuts are thoughtful, and the pricing actually makes sense. Quince uses 100% European linen, their cotton poplin is crisp and holds its shape. The gauze is soft without being flimsy. Their lightweight cotton cashmere sweaters are perfect for the changing seasons. Versatile, well made pieces that make getting dressed simple. Everything Quince makes is built to hold up season after season. The stitching, the fit, the fabrics. These are pieces you'll reach for over and over. Speaking of over and over, you've heard me talk about it before, but I can't say enough good things about my featherless quilted long puffer coat that I got from Quince a few months ago. Spring is right around the corner, but it doesn't feel like it right now in the Northeast. I am still wearing my cozy quince coat every day with no end in sight and it is really holding up. My favorite thing of all is that Quints works directly with safe, ethical factories and cuts out the middlemen. You're not paying for brand markup or fancy retail stores, just quality clothing right now. Go to quince.com stories for free shipping and 365 day returns. That's a full year to wear it and love it. And you will now available in Canada too. Don't keep settling for clothes that don't last. Go to quince.com stories for free shipping and 365 day returns. Quince.com stories as schedules fill up with activities, travel and spring events, it can be challenging to make learning consistent. IXL makes it simple to stay on track with focused, flexible practice that fits your routine. IXL is an award winning online learning platform that fits seamlessly into homeschooling. It offers interactive practice across math, language arts, science and social studies from Pre K through 12th grade. IXL personalizes learning for each child, keeps them engaged, and gives parents clear insight into progress. IXL's interactive practice and clear explanations make it easy to reinforce learning as you prepare for end of year assessments or milestones. Everything is organized by grade and subject so you can quickly find what each child needs without juggling multiple resources. Over 15 million students use IXL. More than 75 research studies show it delivers real results and it's been proven to improve achievement in all 50 states, giving homeschool families added confidence. Make an impact on your child's learning. Get IXL now and stories. Podcast listeners can get an exclusive 20% off IXL membership when they sign up today with www.ixl.com dragon to get the most effective learning program out there at the best price.
[04:47]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Thanks. Enjoy the episode
[04:51]
Narrator
A Hercules Fable Once upon a time in ancient Greece, a wagon trundled across the countryside. There wasn't a road exactly so the ride was long and bumpy. Most people preferred to travel by sea, but some places couldn't be reached by the water, and hard working wagoners could make good coin taking the dirty trip over land. Cleon was a wagoner. Whether he was a hard working one remained to be seen. This was his first trip. He was only a boy, but he'd inherited the wagon from his uncle. It wasn't great as far as wagons go. The wheels were squeaky and creaky, its white canopy grayed with age. Cleon's horse was showing some age as well. His wavy black mane was humbly sparse and dusted with gray. Come on, Hercules, pick up those feet. Cleon called, flicking the reins. He had named the horse Hercules when he was a kid. It had seemed a good strong name. Now, though, with the horse old and slow, it felt more like an ironic joke. Pick up the pace, you old nag. He called again. The horse looked over his shoulder, saw Cleon lounging comfortably on the wagon seat, and gave the boy a dirty look. Don't start with me, Hercules. We've got to get these olives to Sparta before the festival or our buyer won't give us half as much money. With a humph, Hercules picked up his pace, trotting the wagon up and down the long and bumpy road. Cleon began to relax a little. They were making good time. His mind began to wander. The reins held loosely, enjoying the glow of the sun on his olive skin. Of course, he should have been watching the road, but he was still a boy, and boys are nothing if not easily distracted. So he was completely taken by surprise when the wagon suddenly jerked to a halt and tipped forward, spilling Cleon yelping into a big mu puddle. Splash. What the. Hercules, Come on. He stood up, scooping fat handfuls of mud from his eyes and pulling clods of it from his curly hair. Hercules whinnied loud and long. To Cleon's ears it sounded suspiciously like a laugh. Real funny, you big lug. Why'd you stop like that as soon as he asked? He could see his answer, though. Water had pooled in a low spot in the road, forming the mud puddle. The rear wheels of the wagon, laden heavy with casks of olives, had sunk into the marshy ground and gotten stuck. With a sigh, Cleon pulled himself back onto the wagon seat. A cold glob of mud slid down his back and he shuddered, miserable. All right, Hercules, get us out of here, he said, taking the reins. Hercules blew air through his lips in a tired trill. He pushed his hooves hard into the mud and strained against his harness. The wagon rocked forward, but didn't budge. Hercules, we need to make the festival. Come on. The old horse pulled harder, head down and legs shaking with effort. The wagon rocked forward an inch, two inches, and then slid back into the muddy rut with a splash. Hercules whinnied, defeated. No. We can't be stuck. Cleon cried, burying his head in his hands. If they didn't make it before the festival, his olives wouldn't sell for nearly as much, and the whole trip would be a waste. Hercules, come on, pull. He shouted.
[08:11]
Singer
Ugh.
[08:12]
Narrator
If only I had the real Hercules here, he'd be able to get us free. Looking for me? Said a voice from beside the wagon. Cleon was so surprised, he nearly tumbled back into the mud. What? Who said that? From thin air appeared a mountain of a man. He was over 6ft tall, with shoulders broad as a barge. His muscles were hulking and so solid, Cleon thought they may have been chiseled from marble by some master's hand. Astonished, he realized this man could only be one person. Hercules, he said, mouth hanging open. That's right, Hercules said, stooping down to look at the wagon's wheels stuck in the mud. So you need a little help, huh? Cleon was surprised, but in those days, the Greek gods and demigods often visited normal people, so he wasn't as scared as he might have been otherwise. I was just yelling at my horse, Cleon said, rubbing his neck in embarrassment. I. I named him Hercules. The real Hercules arched an eyebrow at him. Uh, big fan. Hercules laughed and clapped Cleon on the shoulder. The demigod meant it as a friendly gesture, but he was so strong, it nearly knocked Cleon right off the wagon. No harm done. He looks like a good, strong horse after all. Now you need help moving this old wagon? Yes, Cleon said. We're stuck. And Herc, I mean, my horse isn't strong enough to get us out. Have you tried pushing yourself free? Well, no. I figured the horse should be able to do it. So you want help? But you haven't even tried to help yourself yet. Well, I guess not. But now that you're here, can't you just, you know. Cleon mimed Hercules, lifting the wagon with one mighty hand. I could, but that would reward your whining. If you want help, you're going to have to contribute. What? What do you mean? Cleon asked. I mean, get your lazy bum off that wagon and push. I'll pull from the front, but I'm a demigod, not your servant, so you better help. But you're Hercules. You don't need my help. I don't. But I'm also not in the business of doing things for lazy children. You'll help, or I'll just head on back to Mount Olympus. Hercules began to fuzz around the edges, as though he may disappear at any instant. No, no, of course I'll help. Cleon said, scrambling off the wagon and running to the back.
[10:34]
Stories Podcast Announcer
I'll push.
[10:34]
Narrator
I'll push, all right. Called Hercules from the front of the wagon. Are you ready? Ready.
[10:42]
Singer
And it's one to heave your shoulder to the wheel. Want to leave? Then you gotta show some steel. Put your back into it and dirty up those hands. You just power through it and make real all your plans. But before you ask for help, before you whine and cry it's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try. And it's one to heave your shoulder to the wheel. Don't just grieve you've gotta plant your heels, put your back into it and dirty up those hands. You just power through it and make real all your plans. But before you ask for help, before you whine and cry it's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try. It's important you try for yourself. Yeah, try, try, try.
[11:38]
Narrator
With Hercules encouragement, Cleon planted his feet and put all his strength into getting the wagon's wheels rolling. He heaved once, and they rocked back. He heaved again, and the wagon seemed to lift and stand still. And with one final heave, the wagon wheel came free of the mud with a squelch, and the wagon rolled forward a few feet back onto the dry road.
[11:59]
Singer
We did it.
[12:01]
Narrator
Cleon said, panting. Good job, kid, said Hercules from the top of the wagon. Cleon looked up and saw the demigod lounging in his seat. He'd helped himself to a handful of fat, purple olives and was eating them with a smile. Hey, you didn't even help. Well, help can mean a few different things. Can it? Said Hercules, hopping down from the wagon gracefully. I helped you with a lesson. He munched a few olives. Oh, yeah? Said Cleon, rubbing his shoulder. What lesson is that? Don't ask for help until you've tried to help yourself. If you'd stopped complaining and just got out and pushed you, you'd have been on your way already. I. I guess that's true, Cleon said. Course it is, said Hercules. So what are you going to do next time you get stuck? I'm going to try, try, try before I ask for help. Smart kid, hercules said. He walked over and patted the horse Hercules on the neck. Take care of the kid, Herc. He's still learning. The horse gave a happy whinny in response. Hercules laughed, winked at Cleon, and disappeared. Cleon blinked and then shook his head. All right, buddy, he said to his horse. Lesson learned. Now how about we get these olives to the festival? Hercules whinnied in reply, and the wagon was soon bumping and rolling down the road to Sparta.
[13:22]
Singer
And it's one to heave shoulder to the wheel.
[13:26]
Narrator
One, two, leave the End
[13:31]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Today's story,
[13:31]
Amanda Weldon
A Hercules Fable, was an adaptation of a Greek myth written for you by
[13:36]
Stories Podcast Announcer
Daniel Hines and performed for your by Kelsey Lee, with songs by them both. If you would like to support Stories podcast, you can leave us a five star review on iTunes. Check out all of our merch available@storiespodcast.com Shop Commission a special video on Cameo, follow us on Instagram Stories Podcast or simply tell your friends about us. Thanks for listening.