The Atlas Obscura Podcast

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.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.

Bernie Harberts, a slow travel adventurer and filmmaker, shares his captivating journey of floating alone at sea for months. He vividly describes the profound solitude and self-reflection that come with ocean travel. The discussion dives into the concept of 'doldrums'—those moments of stillness that challenge sailors, drawing parallels to life's unpredictability. Bernie reflects on the courage needed to embrace isolation while highlighting the meditative aspects of such adventures, ultimately balancing the thrill of exploration with the comforts of home.

Rudy Hanya, a real estate agent and resident of the former Broken Angel building, shares his unique insights into this iconic Brooklyn structure. He explores the creative vision of its artists who transformed discarded materials into a stunning masterpiece. The discussion reveals the tensions between artistic freedom and building regulations that ultimately led to its loss. Hanya reflects on the lasting cultural impact of the Broken Angel and the memories it holds for the community, celebrating resilience and the beauty in impermanence.

Discover the fascinating history of Kinmen Island, once a Cold War battleground, through the lens of the Beishan Broadcasting Wall. Originally a tool for anti-communist propaganda, it has transformed into a canvas for artistic expression. Hear how the Sonic Territories project brings solace by playing a Buddhist mantra at sites of historical tragedy, reshaping the soundscape for visitors. This blend of history and art invites listeners to reflect on the echoes of the past in our modern world.

Explore the enchanting garden of Anne Spencer in Lynchburg, Virginia, a crucial part of her poetic inspiration during the Harlem Renaissance. Discover how her vibrant sanctuary shaped her creative spirit and influenced both literature and civil rights. Learn about the quaint Eden Crawl cottage, where Spencer found solace and wrote her final poem. Delve into the revival of her beloved garden, now flourishing thanks to community efforts, and enjoy a heartfelt reading of her poetry amid its beauty.

The host engages with listeners, expressing excitement about classic episodes while inviting them to share their dating travel stories. From hilarious mishaps to touching moments, all experiences are welcome. Contributions can be sent through email or voice memo, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun. Tune in for a blend of nostalgia and community engagement, as listeners' unique tales shape the conversation!