The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Rasha Aridi and Emma Gomez, producers at Science Friday, dive into the unique challenges of cannabis research amid federal restrictions. They highlight the innovative CannaVan, a mobile lab that brings research directly to users, facilitating studies in relaxed environments. Listeners will learn about the historical hurdles faced by researchers, the intriguing link between THC and exercise enjoyment, and the shifting demographics of cannabis users. Their insightful reporting sheds light on how science adapts to legal complexities in a changing landscape.

Tally Johnson, a folklorist dedicated to South Carolina's ghost stories, dives into the spine-chilling legend of the Gray Man. This apparition is said to warn residents of impending hurricanes, intertwining history with folklore. Tally shares personal anecdotes and discusses the ghost's ominous yet protective presence on Pawleys Island. The conversation explores the complex legacy of Plowden Weston, community memory, and how these ghostly tales help preserve local culture and heritage.

Colin Dickey, a writer and expert on folklore, delves into the chilling tale of the Mad Gasser of Mattoon, a series of gas attacks that terrorized a small Midwestern town in 1944. He discusses Aline Kearney's horrifying encounter, which sparked a wave of panic and mass hysteria. The involvement of the Army's Chemical Warfare Division adds a chilling layer to the story. Dickey also explores the psychological factors influencing the community's response, highlighting how fear can warp reality and create urban legends.

Luce Fleming, an audio engineer and sound designer, shares her spine-chilling experiences from the Jennings Music Building at Bennington College. She reveals eerie encounters that blend her academic life with the supernatural. The conversation also dives into listener stories about sinister spots, like an abandoned ice factory. Fleming draws listeners in with her haunting tales, exploring how places can evoke both fear and nostalgia, and inviting everyone to reflect on their own spooky locations.

Roxanne Horn, an Atlas Obscura reporter with a knack for the eerie, dives into the fading tradition of summer camp ghost stories. She discusses the nostalgia of campfires filled with spooky tales and how these stories relate to childhood independence. The conversation highlights the cognitive benefits of confronting fears in a safe environment while navigating the balance between fun and trauma. Horn also examines the evolving cultural perspectives on fear and storytelling, revealing how parents and counselors are reshaping these experiences for the next generation.

Dive into the eerie discovery at a funhouse where a wax dummy turned out to be the body of infamous train robber Elmer McCurdy. Explore McCurdy's wild journey from outlaw to sideshow star, living a bizarre afterlife as a morbid curiosity. The tale includes his notorious heists filled with explosive flair and the darkly comedic twists of his remains becoming a carnival attraction. Reflect on how this outlandish story connects with modern curiosities and social media, leaving a haunting legacy that continues to capture imaginations.

The Smallest Mollusk Museum in New York City is part of a fleet of tiny museums that might just have a big impact on the world.

Kelly and Zach Weinersmith walk Dylan through the practicalities of making a home on the red planet. Check out their book A City on Mars everywhere books are sold.

Brent Walker, a talented photographer and author, shares his journey from collecting stories across the nation to opening the Hidden South antique shop in Araby, Louisiana. He reveals the intriguing confessional project that allows visitors to anonymously share their secrets, fostering community connections. Listeners learn about the shop's unusual atmosphere and how confessions in a cozy bathroom provide a refreshing space for honesty and understanding amidst personal struggles. Walker's unique approach transforms sales into communal bonding experiences.

Mandy Afdahl, a talented perfumer and creator of the AFTAL Archive of Curious Scents, takes listeners on a sensory journey through the hidden world of unique aromas. She shares her evolution from therapist to dedicated perfumer, revealing how the art of fragrance creation taps into deep emotional and sensory connections. The conversation highlights fascinating scents like Jasmine Sombach and Blue Lotus, linking fragrance choices to personal identity. Afdahl's insights invite curiosity and appreciation for the transformative power of scents in our everyday lives.