The Atlas Obscura Podcast

When Peter James first stumbled on the Lowfield Heath Windmill, it was falling apart. Determined to save it, he embarked on a years-long effort with the town that would lead to its complete deconstruction before being rebuilt somewhere new.Find out how you can visit the Lowfield Heath Windmill or donate to its ongoing restoration efforts.

In the 1980s, Soviet scientists dug the Kola Superdeep Borehole, sparking urban legends about their discoveries, including whispers of hell. This podcast delves into the fascinating history behind the world's deepest artificial hole, revealing the fierce Cold War competition in geoscience. Eerie sounds captured from deep within the Earth add a chilling touch. Mixing humor with facts, they explore how truth and myth intertwined, transforming scientific ambition into modern folklore. Ready for a descent into the depths of intrigue?

Listener stories about traveling abroad for the first time – from a trip to Germany in 2020, to a chalet in Switzerland in 1986, to a trip to Iran just before the Shah revolution. Plus, we want to hear your stories of traveling with a significant other for the first time. Give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave us a message telling us your story. Or better yet, record a voice memo and email it to us at hello@atlasobscura.com.

Discover the inspiring tale of an extraordinary wolf that symbolizes hope for conservation. Learn about the Endangered Wolf Center's rich history and its vital role in protecting these misunderstood creatures. Delve into the societal structures of wolves and the misconceptions that surround them. Follow the heartfelt journey of Bob, a wolf who faced challenges after being reintroduced to the wild. Celebrate the recent birth of American red wolf puppies, highlighting the ongoing efforts to support wildlife conservation.

Zach Stafford found great career success at a very young age – he’s a writer, producer, and co-host of the news & culture podcast Vibe Check. His intense work schedule has taken him all over America, and each of the cities and towns he found himself in has shaped him in some way. And through it all, Zach has been searching for a very specific feeling.

In the year 1329, a woman named Christine Carpenter was enclosed in a tiny cell in the walls of a church in Shere, England. She was expected to spend the rest of her life praying in almost complete isolation. But the reason we know her name is that she did something very unusual – she broke out.Learn more about our guest Professor Diane Watt’s work about the lives of medieval women in England, and about St. James’s Church in Shere.  

Dylan and producer Gabby Gladney dive into the colorful world of art cars, from Houston’s epic parades to DIY creations in Minneapolis. Then, Dylan talks to his own father about the multiple art cars they’ve had over the years. 

Freelance writer Joshua Rigsby shares his whimsical adventure to Babyland General Hospital, the birthplace of Cabbage Patch Kids. He describes the enchanting environment and the unique opportunity for visitors to adopt their own doll, customizing everything from hair color to the 'live birth experience.' Rigsby also explores the fascinating history and cultural craze surrounding these beloved dolls, revealing how intense demand in the 1983 holiday season created unforgettable shopping chaos. His journey transforms how he views these charming toys forever.

We’re (almost) back! And we want to hear your New Year’s travel resolutions. Send a voice memo to hello@atlasobscura.com. Or, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message.

Explore the controversial 'Divorce Colony' of Sioux Falls, where socialites sought freedom from oppressive marriages in the late 1800s. Discover the whirlwind romance of Mary Nevins Blaine, who aspired to be an actress while navigating societal pressures. Delve into the high-stakes world of public divorce scrutiny and the challenges faced by women reclaiming their lives. Finally, witness the resilience and evolving laws that shaped the journey beyond divorce, highlighting the quest for personal freedom amid societal stigma.