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PODCAST

The Lost Christmas Podcast

A dive into the characters, stories, traditions, food, and everything else surrounding the Christmas season all over the world. Each episode ends with a passage from The Lost Years of Santa Claus book, recounting stories that fill gaps in the Santa Claus mythos and answer questions about the man himself and his real story.

history

All Episodes

00:31:54

Sports on Christmas: The Untold History Behind...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/12/05

Every holiday season, millions of fans tune in for Christmas Day sports—NBA showdowns, NFL clashes, global soccer derbies, college bowl games, holiday hockey classics, horse racing and even historic one-off matchups that became legends. But how did Christmas become one of the most competitive days on the sports calendar? And what traditions shaped the way we celebrate sports during the holidays?In this episode, we take a deep dive into the history, culture, and surprising origins of sports played on

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00:32:03

Warming Spices, Chilled Nogs: The Global History of...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/11/28

Are you ready to eat and drink through Christmas history?Go beyond cookies, roast, eggnog and mulled wine to uncover the fascinating deep cultural roots of Christmas foods. This episode is your passport to understanding how religion, colonialism, climate, and commercial ingenuity transform simple ingredients into festive flavors.This isn't just about recipes—it's about the stories, power dynamics, and ingenuity hidden inside your holiday plates and glasses. Cheers to a deeper understanding

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00:30:27

The 12 Dark Days: Karankoncolos, the Goblins of...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/11/21

Forget the usual holiday cheer and dive into the chilling world of Christmas folklore with the terrifying Karakoncolos (also known as Kallikantzaros).These malevolent, shapeshifting, hairy winter goblins emerge exclusively during the Twelve Dark Days, the treacherous period between Christmas (December 25th) and Epiphany (January 6th), to wreak havoc across the Balkans. We uncover the sinister origins of this enduring European myth, tracing it back to the drunken, masked chaos of the ancient

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00:29:10

Arctic Shaman Santa?! Meet Yamal Iri, The Grandfather...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/11/14

Beyond Santa Claus and Ded Moroz, the real Arctic winter wizard is Yamal Iri, the “Grandfather of Yamal,” a localized Christmas figure from the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russia. We uncover his unique powers: not just gift-giving, but utilizing a shamanic drum made with ancient Nenets technology to drive away evil spirits and bestow positive energy. Discover why this Siberian hero wears a functional reindeer-skin malitsa, carries ancient mammoth bone jewelry , and how his tradition, rooted in

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00:27:56

Why We Dream of a White Christmas: From Dickens to...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/11/07

Why do we picture Christmas under a blanket of snow—even in places it never falls? This episode traces the history of the White Christmas story from the Little Ice Age (LIA) in 19th-century England’s icy winters to Dickens’s classic tales, Victorian holiday art, and the global impact of Bing Crosby’s 1942 hit. This episode shows you the magical mix of climate, culture, and nostalgia that shaped how the world celebrates

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00:29:51

The Greatest Gift: The Forgotten Story Behind It's a...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/11/01

Season 6! Amazing, and it is thanks to all of you listeners and subscribers! Kicking off Christmas Podcast Day (Nov 1st), I'm joining with my fellow Christmas podcasters to discuss It's a Wonderful Life or at least some rendition of it. Discover the remarkable short story that inspired one of cinema's most beloved Christmas films. In this episode, we explore Philip Van Doren Stern's The Greatest Gift, the tale that became the foundation for It's a Wonderful Life." Learn how

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00:59:02

The History and Traditions of Epiphany – A...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/01/06

What is Epiphany, and why does it hold such deep significance in holiday traditions around the world? In this episode, we uncover the rich history, cultural significance, and timeless stories behind Epiphany—also known as Theophany, Three Kings’ Day or Día de los Reyes.Discover how this celebration marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men to visit the baby Jesus, the symbolism of the Star of Bethlehem, and the diverse traditions observed across countries like Spain, Mexico, Italy, and Greece. From

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00:55:40

New Year's Characters & Gift Givers! Let's take a...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2025/01/01

Did you know that Santa Claus isn’t the only gift-bringer during the holiday season? In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of New Year’s gift givers from cultures around the globe. From Russia’s Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and his granddaughter Snegurochka to Korea and Japan and Colombia, discover the captivating stories behind these legendary figures. We’ll dive into the history, traditions, and mythos surrounding these characters, exploring how they became central to New Year’s

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00:52:37

Christmas Eve Traditions Around the World – Fantastic...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/23

How is Christmas Eve celebrated across the globe? In this episode, we take you on a magical journey to explore Christmas Eve traditions from different cultures and countries. From candlelit church services in Sweden and Nochebuena feasts in Latin America to the serene KFC Christmas Eve dinners in Japan, discover the diverse ways people prepare for the most enchanting night of the year. We’ll dive into the history behind these cherished traditions, uncover the meaning behind midnight masses, festive

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00:43:03

Christmas Decorating Competitions – History,...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/20

Who has the best holiday lights on the block? In this episode, we dive into the sparkling world of Christmas decorating competitions. From their humble beginnings as neighborhood challenges to dazzling national events like The Great Christmas Light Fight, these competitions have become a beloved part of the holiday season. Explore the history behind Christmas decorating contests, from the first illuminated trees to modern-day extravagant light displays. We’ll discuss the cultural impact of these

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01:01:55

Christmas in Argentina – Celebrations, Traditions,...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/17

What does Christmas look like in the middle of summer? In this episode, we travel to Argentina to explore how this vibrant country celebrates the holiday season. From warm-weather traditions and outdoor gatherings to unique Christmas decorations like fireworks and pesebres (nativity scenes), Argentina brings its own special charm to the holidays. Learn about the festive foods that define an Argentine Christmas, including asado (barbecue), vitel toné, and the delicious sweet treat pan dulce. We’ll

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00:55:43

What Makes a Christmas Movie? Debating the Rules and...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/13

Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? What about Gremlins or The Nightmare Before Christmas? In this festive episode, we tackle the age-old debate: what is and isn't a Christmas movie? Join us as we break down the rules and criteria that define a holiday classic. Does the movie need to take place during Christmas? Is a focus on holiday themes required, or can a backdrop of snow and lights suffice?We’ll explore fan-favorite films, controversial choices, and some unexpected titles that just might qualify as

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00:43:53

Father Christmas - Origins, Legends, and the Wild Men...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/10

Who is Father Christmas, and how is he different from St. Nicholas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Father Christmas, from his roots in British folklore to his evolution into a symbol of holiday cheer. Learn how ancient pagan traditions, like the mysterious "Green Man" and "Wild Men of Winter," influenced the stories and imagery of this festive figure. We’ll also explore how Father Christmas differs from the saintly St. Nicholas and how their tales became intertwined in holiday

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00:38:25

The History of Christmas Decorations: From Greenery...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/06

How did Christmas decorations become such a magical part of the holiday season? In this episode, we explore the fascinating history behind the festive adornments we know and love. From the ancient use of greenery like holly, ivy, and mistletoe to the first decorated Christmas trees in Germany, every tradition has a story to tell.We’ll also dive into the evolution of ornaments, the dazzling rise of electric Christmas lights, and the shimmer of tinsel that has graced holiday homes for centuries

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00:47:52

Christmas in Texas: A Festive Fusion!

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/12/03

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including Christmas! In this episode, we’re exploring the Lone Star State’s unique holiday traditions, shaped by its rich blend of cultures. From German-inspired Christmas markets to Mexican tamales and posadas, Texas celebrates the season in style. We’ll also uncover the story behind the iconic lighting displays in towns like Fredericksburg and Grapevine, known as the Christmas Capital of Texas. Discover how cowboy boots meet twinkling lights, why luminarias line Texas

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00:44:38

The Sweet History of Christmas Cookies - Modern Bakes...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/11/29

Ever wonder how Christmas cookies became a beloved holiday tradition? In this episode, we’re diving into the delicious history of Christmas cookies, tracing their journey from ancient spice-filled treats to the beautifully decorated confections we know today. Learn how baking traditions from around the world—from gingerbread houses in Germany to black pepper cookies in Norway—shaped the way we celebrate with cookies during the holidays.We’ll also explore the modern magic of holiday cookie culture,

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00:47:04

The History of My Favorite Things - Iconic Song tied...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/11/22

What makes something a “favorite” at Christmas? In this episode, we dive into the beloved classic song My Favorite Things—from its origins in The Sound of Music to its surprising rise as a holiday staple. Discover how this timeless tune became a soundtrack for the season, even though it was never originally written as a Christmas song. But we don’t stop there! We’ll also explore the broader idea of “favorite things” during the holidays: cherished traditions, decorations, foods, media, and moments

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00:37:08

Christmas Gift-Giving - From Ancient History to...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/11/15

Why do we give gifts at Christmas? In this episode, we unwrap the fascinating history of Christmas gift-giving, exploring its roots in ancient traditions, its connections to religious celebrations, and how it evolved into the modern practice we know today. Learn about the symbolism behind early gift exchanges, the story of Saint Nicholas, and how wrapping paper and ribbons became essential to the holiday season. Whether you're a last-minute shopper or a meticulous gift-wrapper, this episode reveals

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01:00:22

Christmas Games - more than you ever wanted to know

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/11/08

This holiday season, take a journey through the world of Christmas-themed games! In this episode, we explore the timeless appeal of holiday games, starting with the traditional parlor games of antiquity that brought friends and families together. Then, fast forward to today, where we’ll dive into the digital world of modern Christmas video games, capturing holiday magic on screens big and small. Discover the games that bring joy, laughter, and a festive spirit, whether you're playing around the

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00:55:32

Christmas in Norway! Festive Foods Traditions, and...

The Lost Christmas Podcast ·

2024/11/01

Get ready to be transported to the winter wonderland of Norway this holiday season! In this episode, we dive into the heartwarming traditions that make a Norwegian Christmas so special. From savoring traditional foods like ribbe and lutefisk to sipping on gløgg, Norway offers a feast for the senses. We’ll also explore the rich history behind these customs, how Norwegians brave the winter weather to celebrate, and the magical decorations that light up homes across the country. Whether it’s a tale

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69 results

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