The Atlas Obscura Podcast

A once-blacklisted Hollywood star created a magical theater in Topanga Canyon, California, that still endures and inspires today.READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/theatricum-botanicum Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Ystad, Sweden, every night at 9pm a night watchman scans the horizon for fires from the tower of St Mary’s Church, and sounds his trumpet to let the city know it is safe. This tradition goes back to the Medieval Ages. The Night Watchman of Ystad is one of the last keeping his tradition, and today his role has taken on an even bigger significance. Author and journalist Eliot Stein takes us through the evolution of the night watchman. Read more in Eliot’s book, Custodians of Wonder. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Meet Ken Sanders, a passionate bookseller and environmental activist, whose life mission has been to challenge the Glen Canyon Dam. Inspired by a thrilling Western novel, he blends humor and daring acts to fight for the Colorado River's freedom. The discussion dives into the evolution of radical environmentalism, the dangers of a historic flood, and the personal journey of navigating identity in a religious landscape. Find out how activism and literature intertwine against the backdrop of climate change and hope for a revitalized landscape.

In the 1920s, Henry Ford decided to create a rubber plantation in the Amazon rainforest, and alongside it, a tidy little town for his workers: Fordlandia. With its classic American homes and yards, sidewalks and electric streetlights, Fordlandia was a Midwestern anomaly in the Brazilian jungle, one that dazzled American visitors. And it might have actually been a decent place to live – if it weren’t governed by Henry Ford’s rigid and peculiar rules for a wholesome society.Read more in Fordlandia: The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City by Greg Grandin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dylan and producers Amanda and Johanna take listener questions. If you have a question for our next mailbag episode, give us a call at 315-992-7902 and leave a message. You can also record a voice memo and email it to us at Hello@AtlasObscura.com, or simply email your question. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We journey into New York City’s delis and bodegas, in search of a famous – and controversial – sandwich: the chopped cheese. This sandwich has become a cultural symbol and source of debate, and is so storied that some might call it a “folk sandwich.” Plus, we dig into the rich history of the corner store culture where the chopped cheese originated.    This episode was produced in partnership with NYC Tourism.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of the last remaining World War II Victory Gardens in the U.S is quietly growing across from Boston’s Fenway Park.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Mary Roach, a witty exploration of human anatomy and author of the book Replaceable You, as she uncovers the quirks of our bodies. She shares hilarious anecdotes about the history of prosthetics and breast implants, and the daring innovations in surgery. Discover the evolution of breathing machines from the iron lung to modern ventilators. And, ponder the future of organ transplants with genetically modified pig organs. It's a fascinating blend of humor and science that leaves you pondering what makes us uniquely human.

Dive into the fascinating world of collectibles where nostalgia meets personal significance. From cherished Beanie Babies to an emotional journey through cutting boards, each item tells a story. Discover how soccer jerseys embody memories and beach shells symbolize letting go. The hosts explore the emotional ties people have with their collections, inviting listeners to share their own treasures and the experiences behind them. It's a heartfelt look at what we hold dear and why.

Maggie Downs, a talented writer from Joshua Tree, shares her insights on traveling and human connections. She recounts a memorable hike on the Inca Trail, where she encounters a fellow hiker burdened by two backpacks, sparking deep reflections on emotional and physical weights. Topics include battling altitude sickness, the beauty in shared struggles, and how our perceptions of others can be misleading. She also discusses the upcoming travel writing course, encouraging listeners to rethink their approach to storytelling.