The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Explore the captivating story of a taxidermied stork that changed our understanding of bird migration. Unearth the historical myths about avian travel, from whimsical theories to scientific breakthroughs. Discover the incredible journey of the Arrow Stork, shot by an arrow during its migration. Delve into the techniques researchers use to track these remarkable journeys and the insights gained from the Aerostork's story. It all ties together the wonder of nature with the fascinating history of a single object.

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!

Discover the remarkable story of the Thousand-Year Rose, a resilient bloom that survived the chaos of World War II. Explore its deep connections to human history and the enduring spirit of nature. Learn about Hildesheim's rose as a symbol of hope for the city, cherished by medieval pilgrims and linked to the Virgin Mary. Hear emotional reactions from visitors who connect with its beauty and history. Plus, get insider travel tips for experiencing this living marvel firsthand!

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.

Dive into the fascinating tale of Galileo Galilei’s preserved middle finger, a symbol of defiance against authority. Discover the intriguing life of this accidental heretic and his groundbreaking discoveries that challenged the church’s beliefs. Reflect on the humorous yet profound legacy of a scientific relic that continues to ignite curiosity. Plus, enjoy personal anecdotes and an invitation to share your own unusual objects, making history feel both accessible and entertaining.

Cam Gallant, co-founder of Blobfish Books and host of Radical Urgency, shares his thrilling sailing journey to Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai, a volcanic island that was born in 2015 but vanished after its catastrophic eruption in 2022. He mesmerizes with tales of breathtaking marine research aboard a tall ship and the camaraderie among the crew. Gallant discusses the emotional impact of nature's fury and reflects on the island's fleeting beauty, drawing parallels to Mars and reminding listeners of the impermanence of life.

Anthropologist Manvir Singh, an expert on shamanism and author of 'Shamanism: The Timeless Religion,' shares fascinating insights into this ancient practice. He discusses shamanism's roots in Paleolithic cave art and explores its survival on Siberut island, where local spiritual leaders called Sikere play vital roles in community healing. Singh highlights how shamanistic traits are increasingly relevant today, influencing everything from business to social media. He even examines how modern influencers reinterpret these age-old practices for contemporary life.

Family travel tales take center stage, highlighting the joys and challenges of exploring with kids. Humorous anecdotes about biking adventures set the tone, exploring how to balance excitement and exhaustion. Practical tips for flying with toddlers make travel a little easier for parents. Listener questions lead to lively discussions on hydration strategies and financial tips for summer adventures. The hosts invite engagement, adding a community touch to their travel insights.

Listeners dive into stories that bring daily commutes to life, revealing how these journeys foster community ties. Personal anecdotes showcase the beauty and challenges of commuting, turning mundane trips into memorable experiences. A construction surveyor shares insights from 27 years of exploring Iowa's natural spaces, emphasizing the joy of enhancing outdoor leisure. They also invite tales of family travel adventures, asking for reflections on the first trips with kids and the lasting memories made on the road.

James Hagedorn, a geology curator at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, unpacks a thrilling discovery of dinosaur bones found during parking lot renovations. He likens geologists to detectives, piecing together ancient histories. Dive into the lush, tropical Colorado of the Cretaceous period and contrast it with today. Hagedorn also shares insights about the asteroid impact responsible for the dinosaurs' extinction and emphasizes the excitement of scientific curiosity that drives these remarkable findings.