

Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities
iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild
From the creator of the hit podcast Lore comes a new, bite-sized storytelling experience. Each twice-weekly episode features two short tales that take listeners on a guided tour of the unbelievable, the unsettling, and the bizarre.
Order the official Cabinet of Curiosities book by clicking here, and get ready to enjoy some curious reading!
Order the official Cabinet of Curiosities book by clicking here, and get ready to enjoy some curious reading!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 4, 2025 • 11min
Toxic
Some individuals do all they could to fix what is broken, while others become part of the problem. Here are two stories to illustrate what we mean. Order the official Cabinet of Curiosities book by clicking here today, and get ready to enjoy some curious reading!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 27, 2025 • 10min
Nodding Off
Two pairs of men on two very different journeys. Both, however, feature curious endings. Order the official Cabinet of Curiosities book by clicking here today, and get ready to enjoy some curious reading!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 25, 2025 • 10min
Roman
Today's trip through the Cabinet will be both sweet and sour. Order the official Cabinet of Curiosities book by clicking here today, and get ready to enjoy some curious reading! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 20, 2025 • 10min
A Bit Flaky
Dive into the ironic twists of history as a celebrated hero faces public disgrace after defeats. Discover the chaotic events of a tavern dispute in 1355 that ignited a conflict between university students and townsfolk, leaving lasting repercussions. Explore haunted places while unraveling the bizarre tale of the 'Pastry War,' where a pastry chef's demand for reparations led to unexpected military drama involving Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana. History has never been this intriguing!

Feb 18, 2025 • 10min
Danger Within
Discover the devastating Halifax explosion of World War I, a tragic event born from a maritime collision that altered history. Venture into the eerie depths of Rupkund, or Skeleton Lake, where hundreds of bones tell silent stories of untold tragedies. Unravel the enigma behind these remains, exploring the theories on their origins alongside the challenges posed by modern tourism. Join in on this gripping exploration of danger and mystery!

6 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 10min
Bird’s Eye View
Explore the fascinating history of pigeons and their evolution from ordinary birds to vital tools for communication and warfare, particularly during wartime. Discover the dramatic impact of the 1992 BBC mockumentary 'Ghostwatch', which blurred the lines between fiction and reality, creating chaos among its viewers. The program's unsettling reception, especially among children, sparked a conversation about media trust and the power of broadcast storytelling. Uncover how these stories reflect curious ways to perceive our world.

Feb 11, 2025 • 10min
Holy Toledo
Discover the remarkable story of Frey Tormenta, a priest who became a luchador to support an orphanage, blending faith with philanthropy in an unexpected way. Explore the quirky historical conflict over the Toledo Strip between Michigan and Ohio, highlighting how a state sacrifice turned into unexpected benefits. From wrestling to territorial battles, these tales captivate with their blend of history and human interest.

Feb 6, 2025 • 10min
The Juror
Delve into the echoes of a historic naval defeat that reshaped global power dynamics. Discover the blunders of Admiral Rozhestvensky in 1905 and the lessons learned in military strategy. Then, explore the bizarre world of animal trials, where creatures faced prosecution for alleged crimes. These curious cases reveal societal values from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, reflecting unusual yet thought-provoking insights into justice and morality. Prepare for a captivating blend of history and the absurd!

Feb 4, 2025 • 10min
A Pair of Queens
Dive into the extraordinary life of Grace O'Malley, a fierce Irish pirate leader who famously confronted Queen Elizabeth I. Discover the blend of legend and historical truth that shaped her strong legacy. Then, journey into the bravery of the Navajo Code Talkers during World War II, highlighting their innovative communication under pressure. This episode beautifully intertwines history with modern insights about the importance of recognizing resilience and honor in our relationships today.

Jan 30, 2025 • 11min
Room to Grow
Discover hidden charcoal sketches unearthed in the Medici Chapel, revealing fascinating ties to Renaissance art. Explore Michelangelo's tumultuous relationship with the Medici family, showcasing his resilience amidst political turmoil. Dive into the gripping story of Nathaniel Kinney and the vigilante Bald Knobbers in the Ozarks, where the quest for justice blurs the lines of morality. These captivating narratives weave together art, history, and the complexities of human nature.