The Atlas Obscura Podcast

In this enlightening discussion, writer and journalist Alessio Perrone shares insights from his extensive research on Italy's unexploded ordnance. He reveals that Italy recovers around 60,000 such devices every year, and explores the cultural context behind relics found in bombed sites—some even treated as collectibles. Perrone also highlights the perils faced by bomb detection teams, who often operate without safety gear. He reflects on the tragic accidents resulting from unexploded bombs and the shifting rituals surrounding their removal, emphasizing the generational challenges within the bomb-detection industry.

Char Adams, author and cultural writer, dives into the rich history of Black-owned bookstores in America, from the abolitionist David Ruggles to today's vibrant shops. She highlights Ruggles’s role in the Underground Railroad and how his bookstore served as a community hub. Adams discusses the impact of COINTELPRO on Black bookstores during the civil rights movement and the resurgence of these spaces in the 1990s. She reflects on the recent surge in support for Black-owned bookstores post-George Floyd and their evolving role as vital community resources.

Discover the fascinating story of Stamen Grigorov, the Bulgarian scientist who unveiled the secrets of yogurt in 1905. Explore his unique museum, dedicated to his groundbreaking discovery of Lactobacillus bulgaricus. Hear about the intriguing connection between yogurt and longevity theories proposed by Ilya Mechnikov. Journey through the Balkans and learn how the museum showcases local crafts and the cultural significance of yogurt. Delve into the quirks of health claims surrounding yogurt and Grigorov's lasting impact on microbiology.

Teresa de Miguel, a multimedia journalist with experience covering environmental issues, dives into the fascinating world of chinampas—Mexico City's floating gardens. She reveals the rich history of these agricultural marvels dating back to the Aztecs and discusses the various threats they face today, including urbanization and pollution. Highlighting the inspiring story of Cassandra Garduño, who is passionately restoring an abandoned chinampa, Teresa shares insights about overcoming gender barriers in farming and innovative collaboration with local universities to sustain this vital ecosystem.

Karina Bonsi, a Brazilian biologist specializing in snakes, shares her firsthand experiences on Ilha de Queimada Grande, also known as Snake Island. She dispels myths surrounding its dangerous reputation, emphasizing that the island's isolation helped produce the endemic golden lancehead viper. Karina explains how migratory birds are a primary food source and discusses the evolution of the viper's potent venom. Her conservation efforts include educating locals to change negative perceptions of snakes, highlighting the importance of protecting these unique reptiles.

Chris Nordstrande, former general manager of Hotel Sponder in Volendam, shares his intriguing journey into the mysterious letters from Mr. Kaor in Japan. Discover how his curiosity led him to investigate stacks of identical airmail letters filled with whimsical messages. Chris explores theories about their meaning, even traveling to Japan to meet Mr. Kaor. Through polite hospitality and a lack of clear answers, the mystery becomes a reflection on the simple human urge to connect, leaving listeners pondering the beauty of ordinary gestures.

Nathalia Holt, an author and historian, dives into the thrilling 1920s expedition of Theodore Roosevelt's sons, Ted and Kermit, in search of the elusive giant panda. She explores how early encounters shaped Western understanding of pandas and paints a vivid picture of the adventurous route they took through China and Tibet. Holt shares the brothers' emotional journey, from their excitement at discovering a panda to the regret that followed. Their quest not only documented new species but also highlighted shifts in conservation attitudes, making for an engaging tale of adventure and introspection.

Journalist Katie Thornton, known for her insightful New Yorker reporting, dives into the eerie world of sea lampreys—blood-sucking invaders of the Great Lakes. She shares their grotesque features and ancient origins. Learn how human actions allowed these 'vampire fish' to thrive and wreak havoc on local fisheries and economies. Discover the innovative chemical solutions developed to combat them and the struggle to maintain funding amidst recent federal cuts, which threaten the future of control efforts.

Artist and architect Danny Shaddick, known for his innovative designs, joins rapper Shad in a deep dive into their captivating musical robot project. They explore their long-standing friendship and collaboration in Toronto, discussing the inspiration behind their unique Drum Tower. The duo shares insights on how they integrated found objects and field recordings, including sounds from the city's transit system, into their music. Shad reflects on hip-hop's influence, revealing how sampling everyday sounds transformed their creative process. Discover the story behind their original composition!

Takuya Kawai, founder of Tokyo's Manuscript Writing Cafe, shares insights from his unique space designed to combat procrastination. The cafe offers a silent atmosphere, task cards, and check-ins to keep writers focused. Takuya explains how the pressure of mild supervision and free snacks encourages productivity. Inspired by his own experiences during COVID, he aimed to create a community where distractions are minimized, allowing creativity to thrive—all while implementing strict penalties for those who don't meet their goals.