Detailed Summary of "Throwback: The Very Sick Goblins"

Podcast: Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages
Host: Amanda Weldon
Episode: Throwback: The Very Sick Goblins
Release Date: May 20, 2025

Introduction

In this throwback episode, Amanda Weldon revisits one of the classic stories from the Stories Podcast archive: "The Very Sick Goblins." This enchanting tale not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about hygiene and community health, making it a favorite among imaginative families.

Story Overview

"The Very Sick Goblins" chronicles the adventures of Dr. Louise, a dedicated medical doctor who serves a small village on the edge of a mysterious forest inhabited by goblins. When a group of sick goblins threatens her safety, Dr. Louise uses her medical expertise to teach them essential hygiene practices, ultimately saving herself and the goblin community from perpetual illness.

Key Sections and Discussions

1. Setting and Characters

Dr. Louise is presented as an unconventional healer—[03:22] not a typical folk medicine practitioner but a formally trained medical doctor. Her dedication to her work is evident as she tirelessly cares for the village children despite the chaos they often bring.

Amanda Weldon [03:22]: "She wasn't a medicine woman or a shaman... she was a medical doctor with all the studying and knowledge that entails."

2. The Journey and Goblin Attack

Seeking a much-needed vacation, Dr. Louise departs the village with a group of merchants. Their journey takes them deep into the foreboding forest, where they are ambushed by goblins. Amid the chaos, Dr. Louise is thrown from the wagon and captured by the sick goblins.

Goblins [03:06]: "Get me From Disney and Pixar."

3. Captivity in the Soup Pot

Dr. Louise wakes up tied in a giant pot, realizing the goblins intend to cook her into soup to cure their illnesses. Despite the dire circumstances, she remains calm and begins to reason with her captors.

Goblins [07:56]: "Help."

Amanda Weldon [07:58]: "She tried to say, but she only managed a croak."

4. Teaching the Goblins

Using her medical knowledge, Dr. Louise educates the goblins about germs and proper hygiene. She introduces them to the concept of coughing and sneezing into elbows to prevent the spread of illness. Initially met with skepticism, her persistent and practical advice begins to resonate with the goblins.

Dr. Louise [08:30]: "When you sneeze and cough, you're shooting germs into the air, and anyone who touches them will get sick, too."

Goblins [09:15]: "Germs are great."

5. Resolution and Return

Through patience and effective teaching, Dr. Louise convinces the goblins to adopt better hygiene practices. The goblins gradually overcome their sickness, leading to a peaceful resolution where Dr. Louise is allowed to return to her village. Upon her return, she is welcomed by grateful parents seeking her medical advice, illustrating the positive impact of her intervention.

Dr. Louise [14:50]: "Rub your palms together, lather up those suds... When you're finished singing, rinse your hands. You're done."

Key Themes and Lessons

1. Importance of Hygiene: The story emphasizes the critical role of proper handwashing and hygiene in preventing the spread of illnesses.
2. Empathy and Understanding: Dr. Louise's compassionate approach helps bridge the gap between humans and goblins, fostering mutual respect and cooperation.
3. Problem-Solving: The narrative showcases how knowledge and patience can resolve conflicts and improve community health.
4. Cultural Exchange: The interaction between Dr. Louise and the goblins highlights the benefits of sharing knowledge across different cultures or communities.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Louise on Hygiene:
  [08:30] "When you sneeze and cough, you're shooting germs into the air, and anyone who touches them will get sick, too."

• Goblin Skepticism:
  [09:15] "Germs are great."

• Dr. Louise’s Instruction:
  [14:50] "Rub your palms together, lather up those suds... When you're finished singing, rinse your hands. You're done."

• Goblin Chef’s Sarcasm:
  [12:30] "More for me," he said, tipping the plate into his mouth.

Conclusion

"The Very Sick Goblins" is a captivating story that blends adventure with educational content, making complex health concepts accessible to young listeners. Through Dr. Louise's journey, children learn the significance of maintaining good hygiene and the positive outcomes that can result from patience and education. Amanda Weldon's engaging narration brings the characters to life, ensuring that both children and parents find value and enjoyment in the tale.

Final Thoughts

This episode stands out as a perfect example of how storytelling can be both entertaining and instructional. By navigating through challenges and fostering understanding, "The Very Sick Goblins" leaves listeners with lasting lessons on health and empathy.