Sam O'Brien

Join Sam O’Brien, Atlas Obscura’s resident food and death reporter, as he explores the fascinating world of a 120-year-old ham in Smithfield, Virginia. Discover the quirky preservation methods and the community’s endearing traditions surrounding this culinary curiosity. From playful anecdotes about its peculiar marketing to the ham's significance in local culture, the discussion is filled with humor and charm. Dive into what makes this ancient delicacy a beloved icon as it approaches its 120th birthday celebration!

Sam O'Brien, a writer from Gastro Obscura with a passion for cemeteries, joins to discuss the unique intersection of recipes and gravestones. They highlight Naomi Odessa Miller Dawson's spritz cookie gravestone, showcasing how culinary art can serve as a personal memorial. The conversation dives into the nostalgia of family traditions, the secrets behind cherished recipes, and how families are increasingly opting for recipe gravestones to honor their loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own culinary commemorations.