Coffee Talk with King Francois I

Episode 31 - Douglas Carr - Part the First

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode thirty-one! I am your host, Theodore Jander. 
In this coffee talk, you will partake in my conversation with Douglas Carr, a long time friend and former Creative Director of the St. Louis Renaissance Festival. Editing the near three hours of audio and preparing the content for this episode was an absolute pleasure. I say this because the 2024 season of the St. Louis Renaissance Festival has started with me in the still new role of Cast Director. And, the insight Douglas shared, along with some very humbling and enlightening discussions, could not have been better timed to revisit. I am quite excited to share this episode with each of you.
A side note. As I mentioned, the original length of the conversation between Douglas and me lasted nearly three hours. So, I am splitting it up between two episodes.
Before jumping into the first half of our conversation, some more coffee humor to start things brewing. This one goes out to all you Star Wars fans. To whom did Han Solo owe coffee? Java the Hut. With that bit of brew-licious humor, grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I and my guest and friend, Douglas Carr.
Douglas’ historical figure of choice with whom to have coffee:
William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
Douglas’ favorite Renaissance word:
Bunghole - meaning a hole for emptying or filling a cask (Merriam-Webster online Dictionary)
Podcast Sponsored by: Rosie’s Blossoms and Bouquets
If you are a performer, artisan, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Dance of the Mill, composed by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 30 - Short-Chat Segments - Compilation 1

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode thirty! I am your host, Theodore Jander.
In this brief episode, you will hear the stories shared by three previous guests featured in the Short-Chat Segments from three past installments where I highlighted Renaissance Festivals of 2023. The individuals are Brent Jones, Ann Hier Brown, and Kirsten Collier.
But before we hear their tales, I present some winter-related coffee humor to start things brewing. “I was drinking coffee in my snow boots this morning when I thought to myself, ‘I really need to procure a mug.’” With that bit of java jocularity, grab a cup of your favorite brew, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I.
If you are a performer, artisan, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Dance of the Mill, composed by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 29 - 2024’s Festivals, Festivals, Festivals - Installment 1

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I,  episode twenty-nine, 2024’s Festivals, Festivals, Festivals - Installment 1. I am your host, Theodore Jander. In this episode, I will be highlighting the upcoming 2024 Renaissance Festivals here in the US, with their names and upcoming January, February, and March dates.
As a reminder, let it be known that at least one Renaissance Festival occurs each weekend of the year. Or, almost every weekend. The one exception would be the weekend right before and after Christmas, depending on what day Christmas falls. That is when you would not be able to find a Renaissance Festival. Needless to say, if you are longing for that Ren Faire fix and are willing to travel many miles, well, you can take a step back in time every weekend if you so choose.
But before we begin our festival excursion, you will hear the short chat I had with fellow performer, Adri Beale, where she shares her coffee preferences and a favorite Ren Faire experience story. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I.
Where to find more about the festivals highlighted in this episode:
January 2024
Acadiana Renaissance Faire - January 6 - February 4, 2024 - Opelousas, Louisiana
https://www.acadianarenaissancefaire.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AcadianaRF/
Brevard Renaissance Fair - January 6 - February 4, 2024 - Melbourne, Florida
https://brevardrenaissancefair.com/
https://www.facebook.com/brevardrenaissancefair
Faire of Champions - January 6 - February 11, 2024 - Palestine, Texas
https://faireofchampions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Faire-of-Champions-101706695524167
CastleFaire at Uhuburg Castle - January 12 - 14, 2024 - Helen, Georgia
https://www.uhuburg.com/castlefaire
https://www.facebook.com/CastleFaire
Kerrville Renaissance Festival - January 20 - February 4, 2024 - Kerrville, Texas
https://www.kerrvillerenfest.com/
https://www.facebook.com/KerrvilleRenFest/
Venezia Renaissance Faire - January 20 - 28, 2024 - Bonita Springs, Florida
https://veneziarenaissancefaire.com/
https://www.facebook.com/VeneziaRenFaire
Hoggetowne Medieval Faire - January 27 - 28, 2024 - Gainesville, Florida
https://www.hoggetownemedfaire.com/
https://www.facebook.com/HoggetowneMedievalFaire
February 2024
Two Rivers Renaissance Faire - February 2 - 4, 2024 - Yuma, Arizona
https://www.tworiversfaire.com
https://www.facebook.com/Two.Rivers.Renaissance.Faire/
Vermont Winter Renaissance Faire - February 3 - 4, 2024 - Shelburne, Vermont or Essex Junction, Vermont
https://www.vtgatherings.com/winter-renaissance-faire.html
https://www.facebook.com/VTRennFaire/
Arizona Renaissance Festival - February 3 - March 31, 2024 - Apache Junction, Arizona
https://arizona.renfestinfo.com/
https://www.facebook.com/RENFESTINFO/
Florida Renaissance Festival - February 3 - March 24, 2024 - Deerfield Beach, Florida
https://www.ren-fest.com/
https://www.facebook.com/flarenfest
https://www.instagram.com/flarenfest/
Bay Area Renaissance Festival - February 17 - March 31, 2024 - Dade City, Florida
https://www.bayarearenfest.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bayarearenaissance
March 2024
Heartlands Renaissance Festival - March 1 - April 14, 2024 - Gustine, Texas
https://www.heartlandsrenaissancefestival.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550719365801
Alabama Medieval Fantasy Festival - March 2 - 3, 2024 - Greenville, Alabama
https://www.almff.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ALMFF/
https://instagram.com/alabamamedievalfantasyfestival/
Gulf Coast Renaissance Faire and Pirate Festival - March 2 - 3, 2024 - Milton, Florida
http://www.gcrf.us/
https://www.facebook.com/gulfcoastrenfair/
Sherwood Forest Faire - March 2 - April 21, 2024 - McDade, Texas
https://www.sherwoodforestfaire.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sherwoodforestfaire
Grand Lake Renaissance Festival - March 9 - 10, 2024 - Vinita, Oklahoma
https://www.williamsentertainment.org/grand-lake-renaissance-festival
https://www.facebook.com/GrandLakeRenaissanceFestival
Queensferry Renaissance Festival - March 16 - 17, 2024 - Vinita, Oklahoma
https://queensferryrenfest.com/
https://www.facebook.com/queensferryrenaissancefestival
Guthrie Renaissance Faire - March 22 - 24, 2024 - Guthrie, Oklahoma
https://guthrierenfair.com/
https://www.facebook.com/GuthrieRenaissanceFaire
If you are a performer, merchant, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Dance of the Mill, composed by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts
 

Episode 28 - 2023 Holiday Renaissance Episode

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I! I am your host, Theodore Jander. 
I am excited to bring to all listeners, episode twenty-eight, which is the 2023 Holiday Renaissance Episode where we will discover more delightful sounds of the Greenleaf Singers, an exciting St. Louis based vocal ensemble specializing in a cappella music of the Renaissance. The ensemble’s main performances each year are at the St. Louis Renaissance Festival, mid-September through early October, and the Eliot Chapel Renaissance Madrigal and Christmas Rout in Kirkwood, Missouri. In addition, the group presents a Christmas concert the second Friday in December as well as a spring performance.
Where to find more about the Greenleaf Singers:
Website - https://greenleafsingers.org/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/greenleafsingers/
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Masters in this hall - arr. Leland Forsblad
We began with Masters in this hall, a piece Greenleaf performed as the processional. The next two selections were sung during the presentation of the Wassail and the bringing in of the boar’s head.
Gloucestershire Wassail - English Carol; arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams
The Boar’s Head Carol - Anonymous 15th century carol
The following six pieces are part of the group's madrigal repertoire, which they sang during the three nights of the 2023 Eliot Chapel Renaissance Madrigal and Christmas Rout:
Sing we and chant it - Thomas Morley (1557-1602)
This sweet and merry month - William Byrd (1539-1623)
Eliza is the fairest Queen/Come again, sweet nature’s treasure - Edward Johnson (fl. 1572-1601)
Hence stars, too dim of light - Michael East (1580-1648)
Pastime with good company - attributed to Henry VIII (1491-1547)
Stayin’ Alive - arr. Jonas Wolf
Up next are three Christmas-themed selections from the aforementioned performances:
Good King Kong - P.D.Q. Bach (1807-1742?)
Carol of the Bells - arr. Peter Wilhousky
Nova, Nova - Anonymous 15th century carol, arr. Judith Otten
Our final selection for this holiday episode, which was also included in last year’s Christmas installment, is lullay my liking. The text comes from the Sloane Manuscript 2593, a collection of medieval lyrics. The music was composed by yours truly, me, nine years ago for the women of the Greenleaf Singers. They premiered the piece in December of 2014. You will hear a rehearsal performance recording from eight years ago of the women of the Greenleaf Singers. Enjoy this concluding Christmas musical offering!
lullay my liking - Theodore A. Jander (b.1972)
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If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Coventry Carol, edited by Theodore Jander.
Found out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 27 - The Remaining Festivals, Festivals, Festivals of 2023

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I,  episode twenty-seven, The Remaining Festivals, Festivals, Festivals of 2023. I am your host, Theodore Jander. In this episode, I will be highlighting the remaining Renaissance Festivals here in the US and one in Canada, with their names and upcoming October, November, and December dates.
But before we do that, you will hear the short-chat segment I had with fellow performer, Kirsten Collier, where she shares her coffee preferences and a favorite Ren Faire experience story. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I. Enjoy!
Where to find more about the festivals highlighted in this episode:
Reviewed Festivals:
The New York Renaissance Faire - August 26 - October 8, 2023 - Tuxedo Park, New York
~https://renfair.com/ny/
~https://www.facebook.com/nyrenfair
The Connecticut Renaissance Faire - September 2 - October 15, 2023 - Lebanon, Connecticut
~https://www.ctfaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/ctfaire
Kansas City Renaissance Festival - September 2 - October 15, 2023 - Bonner Springs, Kansas
~https://www.kcrenfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityRenFest
Maryland Renaissance Festival - August 26 - October 22, 2023 - Annapolis, Maryland
~https://rennfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/mdrenfest
King Richard's Faire, 2023 -  September 2 - October 22, 2023 - Carver, Massachusetts
~https://www.kingrichardsfaire.net/
~https://www.facebook.com/TheKingRichardsFaire
Northern California Renaissance Faire - September 16 - October 22, 2023 - Hollister, California
~https://norcalrenfaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/norcalrenfaire
St. Louis Renaissance Festival - September 16 - October 22, 2023 - Wentzville, Missouri
~https://www.stlrenfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/STLRenFest/
Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire - August 19 - October 29, 2023 - Manheim, Pennsylvania
~http://www.parenfaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/PARENFAIRE/
Ohio Renaissance Festival - September 2 - October 29, 2023 - Waynesville, Ohio
~https://renfestival.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/OhioRenFest
Carolina Renaissance Festival - September 30 - November 19, 2023 - Huntersville, North Carolina
~https://www.carolina.renfestinfo.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/CarolinaRenaissanceFestival
 
October 2023
Days of Knights - October 7 -8, 2023 - Lancaster, Ohio
~http://thedaysofknights.com/
Grand Valley Renaissance Festival - October 7 - 8, 2023 - Allendale Charter Township, Michigan
~http://www.gvren.org/
~https://www.facebook.com/gvren
Iowa Renaissance Festival - October 7 - 8, 2023 - Middle Amana, Iowa
~https://iowarenfest.com/
Medieval Festival of Courage - October 7 - 8, 2023 - McKinleyville, California
~https://medievalfestivalofcourage.org/
~http://www.facebook.com/pages/Medieval-Festival-of-Courage/198394860224413
Olde English Faire - Stronghold - October 7 - 8, 2023 - Oregon, Illinois
~https://strongholdcenter.org/Events/Olde-English-Faire
Renaissance of Kings Faire - October 7 - 8, 2023 - Hanford, California
~https://www.cityofhanfordca.com/1185/Renaissance-of-Kings-Faire
~https://www.facebook.com/HanfordRenaissanceOKingsFaire/
Spokane Renaissance Faire - October 7 - 8, 2023 - Colbert, Washington
~http://www.spokanerenfaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/Spokanerenfaire/
Tennessee Medieval Faire - October 7 - 22, 2023 - Harriman, Tennessee
~https://tmfaire.com/medieval-faire/
~https://www.facebook.com/tennesseemedievalfaire
Texas Renaissance Festival - October 7 - November 26, 2023 - Todd Mission, Texas
~https://www.texrenfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/texrenfest
Age of Chivalry - Las Vegas Renaissance Festival - October 13 - 15, 2023 - Las Vegas, Nevada
~http://www.lvrenfair.com
~https://www.facebook.com/lvrenfair
Oxford Renaissance Festival - October 13 - 15, 2023 - Dorchester, Ontario, Canada
~https://oxfordrenfest.com/
~http://www.facebook.com/oxfordrenfest
Dragon Valley Mini-Ren Faire - October 14, 2023 - Maryville, Tennessee
~https://www.whimsywitchevents.com/festivals-and-faires
~https://www.facebook.com/events/1601216417066222
Punkin Chunkin' Renaissance Faire - October 14, 2023 - Ely, Nevada
~https://www.facebook.com/events/s/punkin-chunkin-goes-medieval/560628062704703/
A Gathering of Rogues & Ruffians - October 14 - 15, 2023 - Baraboo, Wisconsin
~https://www.facebook.com/AGatheringofRoguesandRuffians
Southern Indiana Renaissance Faire - October 14 - 22, 2023 - Charlestown, Indiana
~https://www.renaissancefairindiana.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/Southern-Indiana-Renaissance-Faire-101322795188067/
Southeast Texas Renaissance Faire - October 14 - November 12, 2023 - Call, Texas
~http://www.southeasttexasrenaissancefaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/southeasttexasrenaissancefaire
Mississippi Renaissance Festival - October 20 - 21, 2023 - Gulfport, Mississippi
~https://www.msrenfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/msrenfest
Ravenwood Faire - October 20 - 29, 2023 - Clear Brook, Virginia
~ https://ravenwoodfaire.us/
~ https://facebook.com/ravenwoodfaire/
Central Missouri Renaissance Festival - October 21 - 22, 2023 - Kingdom City, Missouri
~http://www.centralmorenfest.org/
~https://www.facebook.com/CentralMoRenFest
Cottonwood Faire - October 28, 2023 - Amarillo, Texas
~https://www.cottonwoodfaire.com/
Gatalop Renaissance Festival - October 28, 2023 - Dauphin Island, Alabama
~https://alabama.travel/upcoming-events/34th-annual-renaissance-festival-gatalop-34
https://www.facebook.com/events/fort-gaines-51-bienville-boulevard-dauphin-island-alabama-36528/gatalop-2021-a-coronation/268367351293041/
Alabama Renaissance Faire - October 28 - 29, 2023 - Florence, Alabama
~https://www.thealrenfaire.org/
https://www.facebook.com/thealrenfaire.org
The Hot Springs Renaissance Faire - October 28 - 29, 2023 - Hot Springs, Arkansas
~https://www.purplepass.com/#253428/The_Hot_Springs_Renaissance_Faire-The_Hot_Springs_Renaissance_Faire,_our_5th_Anniversary!-The_Garland_County_Fairgrounds-October-28-2023.html
https://www.facebook.com/HSrenfaire/
Escondido Renaissance Faire (Fall) - October 28 - November 5, 2023 - Escondido, California
~http://www.oldetymeproductions.com
Delaware Renaissance Faire - October 28 - November 12, 2023 - Townsend, Delaware
~https://www.delafaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/DelawareFaire
 
November 2023
Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire - November 3 - 12, 2023 - Tavares, Florida
~https://lakerenfaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/LadyoftheLakesRenFaire
Appalachian Renaissance Faire of Tennessee - November 4 - 5, 2023 - Greeneville, Tennessee
~https://appalachianrenaissancefaire.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/AppalachianRenFaire/
OKC Renaissance and Scottish Festival - November 4 - 5, 2023 - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
~https://www.okcrenfest.org/
~https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076407691690
Louisiana Renaissance Festival - November 4 - December 10, 2023 - Hammond, Louisiana
~https://www.larf.org/
~https://www.facebook.com/RenFest.net/
Sarasota Medieval Fair - November 4 - 26, 2023 - Myakka City, Florida
~https://www.sarasotamedievalfair.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/sarasotamedievalfair
Honoka'a Renaissance Faire - November 11, 2023 - Honokaa, Hawaii
~https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084462551299
Kearney Renaissance Faire - November 11 - 12, 2023 - Fresno, California
~https://www.twofayreladies.net/kearney-park-rennaissance-faire
~https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kearney-Renaissance-Faire/110570740841
Mythical & Medieval Fest - November 11 - 19, 2023 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
~https://mythicalmedievalfest.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/mythicalmedievalfestmb/
Jubilee Renaissance Faire - November 18 - 19, 2023 - Robertsdale, Alabama
~https://www.extremejousting.com/jubileefaire
~https://www.facebook.com/JubileeRenFaire/
Suncoast Renaissance Festival - November 18 - December 10, 2023 - Sarasota, Florida
~https://suncoastrenaissancefestival.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/suncoastrenaissancefestival/
 
December 2023
Renaissance Christmas - December 2 - 3, 2023 - Bridgeton, New Jersey
~https://www.shoppesatdragonvillage.com/events/renaissance-christmas
~https://www.facebook.com/Shoppesatdragonvillage/
Orlando Renaissance Festival - December 2 - 10, 2023 - Orlando, Florida
~http://orlandorenaissancefestival.com/
~https://www.facebook.com/OrlRenFest
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 26 - Malgar Thorvik of Thorvik Crafts - Part 2

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I,  episode twenty-six. I am your host, Theodore Jander.
In this coffee talk, you will hear the remainder of my conversation with Malgar Thorvik of Thorvik Crafts, an artisan who specializes in the craft of leatherwork. As mentioned in the last episode, due to the original length of the conversation between Malgar and me lasting close to two hours, I split it up between two episodes. So, we will jump into the conversation about 43 seconds before the cliff-hanger ending of the last installment. So, grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I. Enjoy!
Malgar’s historical figure of choice with whom to have coffee or tea:
Eric the Red
Malgar’s favorite Renaissance word/phrase:
Huzzah - an exclamation to express approval or delight
Where to find out more about Thorvik Crafts:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057057176696
To hear a bonus story shared by Malgar, I invite you to join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. You can also receive early access to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 25 - Malgar Thorvik of Thorvik Crafts - Part 1

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode twenty-five. I am your host, Theodore Jander.
In this coffee talk, you will partake in my conversation with Malgar Thorvik of Thorvik Crafts, an artisan who specializes in the craft of leatherwork. They have received glowing reviews like, “Great products hand crafted and built to last. I love everything I've received from them over the years.” “Outstanding work, all original, handcrafted, and top quality workmanship. One of my favs!” “Wonderful handmade products. I have a few pouches we purchased from them years ago and still in great shape!” “Amazing craftsmanship demonstrated right before your eyes.” It was a real pleasure chatting with Malgar and finding out more about Thorvik Crafts and listening to his stories. A side note. With the original length of the conversation between Malgar and me lasting close to two hours, I am splitting it up between two episodes.
Before jumping into the first half of our conversation, some more coffee humor to start things brewing. Does Moses use instant coffee? No. He brews. And to think, I found that one on my tablet. Kidding. With that bit of brew-licious humor, grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I. Enjoy!
Malgar’s historical figure of choice with whom to have coffee or tea:
Eric the Red
Malgar’s favorite Renaissance word/phrase:
Huzzah - an exclamation to express approval or delight
Where to find out more about Thorvik Crafts:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057057176696
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 24 - A Renaissance Festival Reflection

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode twenty-four, A Renaissance Festival Reflection. I am your host, Theodore Jander.
At the end of the previous installment, I mentioned who my guest would be for episode 24. Unfortunately, I ran into some technical difficulties with the interview recording and editing process. So, that conversation will most likely be episode 25.
That said, I wanted to take this opportunity to let you know what to expect in the upcoming episodes for this podcast as well as a reflection or two regarding my involvement over the past 25 years with the St. Louis Renaissance Festival. But first, some more coffee humor to start things percolating. Why was the barista fired? They kept showing up to work in a tea-shirt. With that bit of java jocularity, grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I.
To start things off, here is what you can expect in the upcoming episodes:
Interview conversations with Malgar Thorvik of Thorvik Crafts; Douglas Carr, former Creative Director of the St. Louis Renaissance Festival; Genevieve and Mike Linder of Seymours of London; Steve and Candy Swope of Candy’s Creations; Ceara Cullen, a long time merchant/manager at various festivals around the US; as well as another recorded-live-series with guests from the St. Louis Renaissance Festival.
Also, I will present the fourth and final installment for 2023 of Festivals, Festivals, Festivals as well as another episode of Something to Help You Sleep 3.0.
I thought, as the 25th Anniversary season of the St. Louis Renaissance Festival kicks off on September 16th, we would take a brief journey down the scenario memory lane.
2004 - The Grand Parti de Lyon - The focus was on how Henri II would bring France out of a financial debacle.
2005 - Joust for the Cure - The scenario theme involved Nostradamus and a ruse that delved into an outbreak of the plague.
2006 - Coup de Jarnac - In our opening scene, we discovered one of the characters, Guy Chabot, Sieur de Jarnac, was causing some problems that were ultimately remedied by the end of the day.
2007 - The scenario was held in 1523 Petite Lyon with the return of King Francois I and focused on the meeting between King Francois Premiere and Giovanni du Verrazzano to discuss plans for an expedition to the New World.
2008 - The Fall of Bourbon - presented the discord between Charles Bourbon and Francois I, and culminated in an intense scene involving a dual (sword fight) between the duke and the king.
2009 - The scenario that season took place in the year 1518. Francois I was in negotiations with King Henry VIII of England to arrange the betrothal of Francois's son to Henry's daughter.
2010 - A Day of Duels was the scenario where each day was filled with, well duels, whether with swords or words between various characters of the realm.
2011 - Saw the first year without a focused scenario other than arriving in Petite Lyon for a wonderful festival.
2012 - We just had a great time celebrating life and all that was a part of the Renaissance.
2013 - Celebrated the festival’s Chrystal Jubilee.
2014 and 2015 - We integrated preparations for the Field of the Cloth of Gold into the activities of the festival day.
From 2016 until 2020, the scenarios were pretty loose focusing mostly on the two kings convening over a grand celebration in Petite Lyon (and for a time Balinghem, in the north of France).
2021 - Robin Hood, Maid Marion, and the Sheriff of Nottingham joined the cast to create some entertaining encounters with the French and English courts.
A character likened to Cinderella drove the storyline for the season of 2022 and included some dueling excursions between I think it was the three Rodrigos.
To hear a bonus story shared by a previous guest, I invite you to join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. You can also receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 23 - Kathleen Whalen

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode twenty-three. I am your host, Theodore Jander.
In this coffee talk, you will partake in my conversation with Kathleen Whalen, a long time friend and cast member of the St. Louis Renaissance Festival as well as the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival.
Before jumping into our conversation, some more coffee humor to start things brewing. Does Moses use instant coffee? No. He brews. And to think, I found that one on my tablet. Kidding. With that bit of brew-licious humor, grab a cup of your favorite java, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I. Enjoy!
Kathleen's favorite Renaissance word/phrase:
Good morrow - means the same as “good morning”
To hear a bonus story shared by Kathleen, I invite you to join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. You can also receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts

Episode 22 - Amy Maxwell and Robert Palmer

Bonjour! Welcome to Coffee Talk with King Francois I, episode twenty-two. I am your host, Theodore Jander.
In this coffee talk, you will share in my conversation with Amy Maxwell and Robert Palmer, two of the most delightful playtrons I have met and know. It was a true delight chatting with this couple and learning more about their passion for Ren Faires. A side note. Today’s show features a hilarious story with some non-explicit adult content. If you have children nearby, you might want to use headphones.
As we have done in a few previous episodes before jumping into our conversation, a little coffee humor to start things brewing. What is the difference between coffee and your opinion? I asked for a coffee. With that bit of hot-in-your-mug humor, grab a cup of your favorite brew, sit back, and enjoy this episode of Coffee Talk with King Francois I. Enjoy!
Amy and Robert’s favorite Renaissance word:
Verily - meaning in truth; certainly
If you are a performer, merchant, staff, or diehard patron in or of the Renaissance Festival world and would like to be featured on Coffee Talk with King Francois I, reach out to me by way of clicking on the following link: https://www.theodorejander.com/coffeetalkpodcast.
Podcast music, Drunken Sailor, arranged by Theodore Jander.
Would you like to receive early access every other week to each new episode as well as receive a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production and creative process for the podcast? If so, join the wonderful community of listeners supporting the show and making new things possible through Patreon. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/CoffeeTalkwithKingFrancois.
Find out more about your host, Theodore Jander, at:
Website - Theodore Jander.com
Instagram - theodore_jander
Amazon - A Journey Begun Through Poetry and Inspirational Thoughts