

Spooked
KQED and Snap Studios
Spooked features true-life supernatural stories, told firsthand by people who can barely believe it happened themselves. Be afraid. Created in the dark of night, by the creators of Snap Judgment in partnership with KQED & PRX. It is hosted by Glynn Washington. Episodes drop every week on Friday! Spooked is available for free on ALL podcast platforms. Featuring brand NEW stories -- along with episodes previously available only by subscription. For Luminary subscribers, previously released episodes are still on Luminary.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 29, 2023 • 35min
The Yellow Balloon
Richard Haynie, a lifelong experiencer of supernatural events, shares his spine-chilling story of a haunted farmhouse. He recounts eerie encounters, such as ghostly apparitions and unsettling shadows that test his courage. Richard reflects on the emotional turmoil of confronting these supernatural forces and explores protective measures he took, including a séance. His journey through fear leads to a deeper understanding of spirituality, revealing the compelling allure of ghost stories and the lessons they hold.

Dec 22, 2023 • 25min
The Murmur
In this spine-tingling discussion, comic book artist Sarah Benkin shares her unsettling childhood encounters with a mysterious presence in the wall. Her father, Richard Benkin, joins in to recount eerie sounds that echoed through their home, revealing their shared experience with the supernatural. They delve into the emotional fallout of their encounters, exploring how fear can intertwine with familial bonds. Their stories blur the lines between fear, nostalgia, and the unknown, leaving listeners both intrigued and unsettled.

Dec 15, 2023 • 23min
Buffer Night
One wrong turn leads Kyan and his friends to the most sinister encounter of their lives.
This story contains explicit language, sensitive listeners please be advised.
Thanks to Kyan Bond for sharing his story! If you know what’s up with Buffer Night, drop us a line, and we’ll make sure Kyan gets it.
Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Dirk Schwartzhoff, artwork by Teo Ducot

Dec 8, 2023 • 39min
Creature Feature
Shirley Spycalla shares her spine-tingling memories from her childhood on the Caribbean island of Grenada, where she learned to be home before dark due to terrifying tales. She recounts a chilling encounter with a man boasting red eyes, whom she believed to be a shapeshifter. Additionally, the podcast delves into eerie legends surrounding shapeshifters and other supernatural beings, revealing the unsettling cultural responses to darkness and danger. Shirley now resides in Montserrat, ever watchful for these mysterious creatures.

Dec 1, 2023 • 36min
The Rocking Horse
When Elizabeth was 19, she got a job as an au pair for an 11-year-old girl named Amy. The girl and her parents lived on a horse farm in rural Georgia - it was remote and beautiful. But at night, when the house got dark and quiet, someone moved through the halls, waiting, and watching for Elizabeth.
Thanks, Elizabeth, for sharing your story with Spooked!
Produced by Greta Weber, original score by Leon Morimoto, artwork by Teo Ducot

Nov 24, 2023 • 26min
Las Tres Cruces
It’s the 1990s in Popoyán, Colombia. Twenty-year-old Humberto and his two best friends Jairo and Mauricio set off for an adventure in the woods. They think they’re invincible–but they’re no match for what they encounter.
Thank you, thank you, Humberto for sharing your story with us!
Produced by Zoë Ferrigno, original score by Lalin St. Juste, artwork by Teo Ducot

Nov 17, 2023 • 29min
These Boots Are Made For Stalking
What happens when everyone in the family can see the same specter… but they don’t tell each other for years?
This story contains explicit language - sensitive listeners please be advised.
Thanks to Michelle, Sherri, and Ed for sharing your story with the Spooked. This story comes to us from the Stories with Sapphire podcast, listen & subscribe for some scary stuff!
Produced by Annie Nguyen, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Nov 10, 2023 • 27min
The Banker
When Antonio and his sister Anita were growing up in Texas, their family didn’t have much money. That’s why they were so excited to move into their very own home, even if it was a little run-down. It turns out, the home already had an occupant.
Thank you, Antonio and Anita, for sharing your story with Spooked!
Produced by Anne Ford, original score by Renzo Gorrio, artwork by Teo Ducot

Nov 3, 2023 • 25min
Pet Cemetery
A college student is arrested and given a chance for release with $100 within 15 minutes. Ray shares his ability to communicate with animals and starts a pet cemetery. Kids bury animals in the cemetery, but fear arises when children go missing. Monkey encounters turn aggressive and bones are discovered. Reflections on burying in a pet cemetery bring internal conflict and lasting impact.

Oct 31, 2023 • 29min
The Woods Have Eyes
Nate and Keith explore forests in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, encountering something hunting for them. They have a chilling encounter with a human-like figure with glowing red eyes. Someone shares a personal account of feeling protected by an unknown entity.