Fresh Air Podcaster Dan Taberski's Investigation Into An Outbreak Of A Mysterious Illness
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Jun 18, 2025 
Dan Taberski, a renowned writer and producer known for his engaging audio documentaries like Missing Richard Simmons, delves into a perplexing outbreak of tics and spasms among high school girls in Leroy, New York. He examines the complex interplay between societal perceptions and psychological stress fueling this contemporary case of mass hysteria. Taberski also reflects on his investigative storytelling methods and discusses the emotional impact of events like 9/11, showcasing how trauma shapes personal narratives and creative expression.
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Leroy Tic Outbreak Story
- A high school in Leroy, New York saw a strange outbreak of tic-like symptoms among girls starting with a single student.
- Symptoms escalated and spread rapidly, stoking both fear and confusion in the community.
Understanding Conversion Disorder
- Conversion disorder manifests psychological stress as physical symptoms without organic causes.
- Symptoms can mimic neurological disorders like Tourette's and include tics, spasms, and seizures.
Gender Bias in Medical Legitimacy
- Reporting of unexplained symptoms varies by gender and status, with women often dismissed as hysterical.
- Similar symptoms in powerful men gain legitimacy, revealing biases in how we validate medical conditions.
