Nicholas Kotar joins Matt at the Anselm Society digital pub table to discuss the origins of so many of the fairy tales and folk stories we know and love. But, the versions of the stories that we know are not necessarily the "original" versions of the stories. Nicholas harnesses his love for stories, and in particular his enviable knowledge of Russian fairy stories, to shed some light on the origins and significance of those tales.

Find out more about Nicholas and his work at NicholasKotar.com.

Recent Episodes

Who's the Anselm-iest Artist? Part Two

Matt continues forcing Mandy and Christina, championship bracket-style, to decide which famous artists most represent the values of the artists' guild. Part 2 of a three-part series.

Who's the Anselm-iest Artist?

Matt forces Mandy and Christina, championship bracket-style, to decide which famous artists most represent the values of the artists' guild.

How to Destroy a Child's Imagination

Fostering a healthy imagination in kids is a worthy goal--but what are the obstacles in today's society actively making that difficult, and what do we do about them?

Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue, Is It a Good Love Story?

It's Valentine's Day, so of course we want to talk about the best and worst love stories of all time!

(Due to technical difficulties, this episode slated for Valentine's Day is appearing after the fact. Our apologies for the diminished sound quality.)

"Insert Perfect Title Here"

What should we expect of titles? What do (and don’t) they tell us? (Believe to See Podcast).

Effective Christian Characters

Why is it so hard to create a character who is both well-developed and compelling, and a sincere Christian? (Believe to See Podcast)

Art that’s Cool to Hate

Ever feel like there was a band, tv show, or book that you were “supposed” to hate? Like hating it was required to prove you’re cool and sophisticated? When Matt was in college, that band was Nickelback. And he’s wondered why ever since…

Can Kids’ Cartoons be Great Cinema?

The hosts discuss whether we should expect children’s animation to be serious art. They do this primarily by analyzing some of their favorite animated films.

Solitude and Community

Artists need solitude to create (or “conjure”), but we need one another too. Mandy and Matt and Christina discuss finding a balance between these seemingly contradictory needs.

SD Smith and the Found Boys

SD Smith returns to the table to discuss his new book, The Found Boys.

Believe to See Podcast

A podcast of the Anselm Society Arts Guild. Join host Matt Mellema and a rotation of guests at the digital pub table to explore how art and storytelling matter for faith and to connect our stories, great stories, and the Great Story.

on iTunes | Spotify | Podbean | Stitcher | RSS

Fairy Tales of Old Russia: An Interview with Nicholas Kotar

Believe to See Podcast