Mission Spooky

In this special April Fools Day episode, we dive into a collection of eerie and unexplained mysteries tied to April. We uncover the bizarre 1897 airship mystery—one of the strangest UFO-adjacent stories from the late 19th century—before setting sail into the legend of the Ourang Medan and the mysterious Kaz II, two ships with stories as eerie as the open sea. Alongside these maritime and aerial enigmas, we explore key historical e...

Tucked away in the heart of Philadelphia, Elfreth’s Alley is more than just a picturesque historic landmark—it’s a street with nearly 300 years of stories, secrets, and spirits.

In this episode, we’ll explore the history of America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, from its origins as a colonial trade hub to the eerie tales whispered by those who walk its cobblestone paths today.

Do spirits haunt this area? Join us...

In this week's episode, we delve into the tragic tale of Mabel Betchel's mysterious murder in Allentown, PA, and the ghostly presence of Thomas Betchel. Uncover the twisted history behind this unsolved case and explore the lingering specter said to roam what was once Thomas's prison cell. Is it guilt, grief, or something more sinister that binds Thomas's spirit to this world? Tune in as we piece together the clues and uncover what ...

Who Will Reign Supreme?It’s all come down to this—the ultimate battle of the bizarre, the legendary, and the downright ridiculous! Five fierce contenders have clawed, crept, and… shape-shifted their way to the finale, but only one can claim victory. Will a sinister creature of the night sink its teeth into the win? Can a legendary outlaw steal the crown? Could a mysterious farm-dweller hoof it to the top? Or will an unexpected chal...

Nestled near the crossroads of history, the Eutaw House has stood as a silent witness to centuries of change. Once a bustling inn and tavern along a well-traveled stagecoach route, this historic landmark has hosted weary travelers, military figures, and perhaps even spirits from its storied past.

In this episode, we uncover the fascinating history of the Eutaw House—from its origins in the early 1800s to its role in Pennsylvania’s e...

As winter tightens its icy grip, ancient legends tell of creatures that emerge with the snow and cold. In this episode, we explore chilling tales from Inuit and Algonquin folklore, uncovering the fearsome Snow Wasset—an elusive predator that burrows beneath the snow—and the mighty Pamola, a spirit of the mountains with the power to control storms. Join us as we delve into the eerie myths of the frozen wilderness and the beings that...

Welcome to Season Six of Mission Spooky! Today, we’re diving into one of the most infamous objects in the paranormal world: the Dybbuk Box. You’ve probably heard the spine-chilling stories—a cursed wine cabinet haunted by a malevolent Jewish spirit, causing chaos, bad luck, and even death to those who dare to own it. But how much of this story is rooted in fact, and how much of it is just a cleverly marketed hoax?

In this episode, ...

🦃 In this special holiday episode of Smash or Pass, we’re diving fork-first into the ultimate Thanksgiving feast! From classic turkey and stuffing to wild-card dishes like Ambrosia salad and spinach casserole, we’ll rate which festive foods make us say “smash!” and which get a hard “pass.” Tune in as we roast, toast, and maybe even gag over some of the most beloved Thanksgiving treats.

Will pumpkin pie reign supreme, or will gree...

Food is essential to life, but what happens when it turns deadly?

This episode explores the bizarre and macabre tales of individuals who met their untimely ends because of food. From factory workers tragically killed by industrial food production to mysterious and fatal meals, we delve into the dark side of our culinary world. Stories include the potato poisoning that claimed lives, a box of chocolate disaster, the sticky horror of...

Join us for a lovely chat with Thersa Matsuura, author of The Book of Japanese Folklore. Known for her podcast Uncanny Japan and decades of exploring Japan's cultural myths and legends, Thersa shares insights into her favorite Yokai, her journey through Japanese folklore, and which Yokai she wouldn't like to meet in a dark alley! We also discuss Halloween's rising popularity in Japan, exploring how this Western tradition has been e...

🎃 Get ready for a Halloween special filled with spooky laughs and questionable judgment calls as we tackle Smash or Pass: Horror Villains!

Join us as we examine horror’s most infamous baddies and ask the ultimate question: would you run for your life or take a chance on "love"?

From slasher icons to supernatural fiends, no villain is off-limits in this lighthearted game of terrifying ‘what ifs.’ Buckle up for laughs, chills, and...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and legally complex world of human remains. From the strict laws preventing the keeping of bones to the eerie allure of necromancy, we explore its origins in ancient Greece. We tackle the bizarre case of the witch who stole bones from New Orleans' Holt Cemetery, sparking a scandal known as "Bonegazi". Plus, we touch on the grim history of resurrectionists and the life of Grandison Harri...

Happy Indigenous People's Day!

In this episode, we expose the unsettling truth about stolen Indigenous peoples' remains in some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the Smithsonian, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Illinois State Museum.

We dive into the ethical and legal battles surrounding the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), a law designed to return these sacred remains ...

In this episode, we discuss the disturbing and complex history of cannibalism. We explore the use of human body parts in corpse medicine—a practice once considered medicinal. We then dive into the legal questions surrounding the consumption of human flesh, examining the societal and cultural implications of such acts. Shifting to science, we analyze the psychological, biological, and evolutionary aspects of cannibalism, including h...

In this end of Summer episode, we dive deep into some of Japan's most notorious and unsettling Yokai. These spirits and supernatural beings evoke fear, fascination, and intrigue. Join us as we explore the legends surrounding these five chilling figures and more:

1. Oni: The fearsome Oni, Japan’s iconic ogre-like demons, take center stage as we examine their immense strength, wicked nature, and the role they play as both vi...

Welcome to another Bonus Episode of Smash or Pass. Smash 'em All?!?

First, (off mic) we imagined we were magical anime creatures. Then, we compiled a list consisting of 10 favorite Pokemon per host (Cord, JC, Kayla, and Kiki). A final list of 12 was randomly generated from the master list of 40 Pokemon. There was a spreadsheet 🧐

Disclaimer: No Pokemon were physically harmed in the making of this episode but some feelings may ...

In this special episode, released on the day of the Hungry Ghost Festival 2024, we delve into the haunting and fascinating world of Hungry Ghosts. These spirits, driven by insatiable desires and unfulfilled cravings, are a significant part of both folklore and religious teachings in East Asian cultures. Join us as we explore the lore and philosophy surrounding these tormented souls:

1. Gaki: Discover the eerie tales of the Gak...

In the third installment of our Yokai series, we explore various unique and captivating Yokai - priests, wizards, and inanimate objects. These supernatural beings, each with distinct characteristics and stories, offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Join us as we delve into the lore of seven intriguing Yokai:

1. Hitotsume Nyūdō: Discover the eerie tales of the Hitotsume Nyūdō, a one-eyed monk...

In the second episode of our series, we delve into the enchanting and often mischievous world of animal-based Yokai. These supernatural beings, rooted in Japanese folklore, take the form of animals with magical abilities and intriguing personalities. Join us as we explore the lore and legends of four fascinating Yokai:

1. Kitsune: Uncover the tales of the Kitsune, the magical fox spirit known for its shape-shifting abilities a...