Christmas Past
Behind every Christmas tradition is a story, often a forgotten one. Every year as we put up a tree and pour the eggnog, we’re continuing generations-old narratives, while being mostly unaware of their starting chapters.
Join Brian Earl to explore the fascinating stories behind the most wonderful time of the year. It's equal parts nerdy deep dive and warmhearted celebration. Think: NPR meets Clement Clarke Moore!
Christmas Past is one of the longest running Christmas podcasts, soon entering its ninth season. Vanity Fair says: "With excellent production, engaging narration, and short, digestible running times, Christmas Past is perfect to put on while decorating your tree or preparing Christmas dinner."
Brian's new book is out now from Lyons Press and Recorded books! Get your copy today, wherever books are sold. And remember...it makes a great gift!
Christmas Past
Backstory: Stollen
Stollen is a Christmas staple in German homes. This cake/bread hybrid is packed with flavor and shaped to resemble a swaddled baby. Food writer Luisa Weiss joins Christmas Past to explain stollen's special connection to German Christmas and German baking culture.
Mentioned in this Episode
- Luisa Weiss
- Classic German Baking, by Luisa Weiss
Music in this Episode
- "Winter Fairy Dance - Orchestral with Bells and Choir" — Paul Winter, via Pixabay
- "Wonderful Christmas Time [Classic Version]" — Frank Schroeter, via Film Music
- "Snow Falls Softly at Night" — Frank Schroeter, via Film Music
- "Piano Ballad 2" — Reeg'sB, via Film Music
- "Magic of Christmas" — Sergei Chetvertnykh, via Pixabay
Brian is getting ready to return for the 2024 Christmas season with an all new series of episodes. Join Christmas Past on Halloween for our traditional ghost story to kick off the preseason.