The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Discover the incredible journey of Bessie Stringfield, a trailblazing Black woman motorcyclist who defied societal norms in the 1930s and 40s. She traveled across the U.S., overcoming racial challenges and embracing adventure. From performing daring stunts to serving as a military courier during WWII, her legacy is both inspiring and influential. The interplay of fact and folklore in her life shapes the narrative of resilience and identity, highlighting her place as a cultural icon in the world of motorcycling.

April White, author of "The Divorce Colony," shares fascinating insights into a unique chapter of American history centered around Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She narrates the dramatic tale of Mary Nevins Blaine, a young woman battling societal norms to seek a divorce in the late 19th century. The rise of the Divorce Colony emerges as a pivotal movement for women's freedom, showcasing their challenges and triumphs amid public scrutiny. White's discussion highlights not just personal stories, but also the profound impact on marriage laws in America.

Diana Hubbell, an Atlas Obscura reporter known for her award-winning piece on Ossabaw Island, joins ecologist Dr. Brisbane to unravel the unique saga of Ossabaw hogs. They discuss the island's eerie beauty and the hogs’ fascinating Iberian genetics, vital for both culinary and health research. The duo also dives into the heartbreaking culling practices, threats of hybridization, and innovative conservation efforts to protect these pigs from extinction. Listeners are invited to consider the balance between wildlife management and preservation.

Discover the captivating world of skinny houses, beginning with a narrow gem in Long Beach that emerged from a surveying error. Learn about the courageous builder who crafted it during the Great Depression. Explore the Sealy Skinny House, a symbol of resilience and minimalist architecture. Marvel at the Carrot House in Warsaw, a triangular marvel showcasing innovative space design. Each story reveals the creativity and history behind these unique urban dwellings.

Join comedian Jacob Wysocki as he takes a lively tour of the Reptile Super Show. Known for his engaging podcast series, Jacob shares whimsical reflections on becoming 'lizard people' and the quirky charm of reptiles like geckos and snakes. He delves into the vibrant community around reptile expos, highlighting emotional bonds between families and their pets. With stories of intricate habitats and passionate enthusiasts, Jacob challenges stereotypes and celebrates the unique joys of this colorful subculture.

Join Luz Fleming, an artist and storyteller, as she shares her heartfelt memories of the Fun Factory, a vibrant graffiti-covered warehouse in Long Island City. She reflects on the thrill and intimidation of creating art in such a space, now lost to urban development. The conversation delves into the nostalgia we feel for beloved hangouts and the emotional weight of places that have vanished. Listeners are invited to explore their own eerie experiences in spaces that linger in memory, evoking both fear and fascination.

Dive into the eerie allure of a renowned haunted hotel, famously linked to Stephen King's 'The Shining.' Hear the chilling tales of its ghostly residents and the gentle spirits that roam its halls. Discover the transformation of a tuberculosis patient who found healing and success by establishing this iconic location. Explore its rich history, architectural beauty, and contemporary charm, with a special focus on the infamous Room 217. Ghost tours and themed events add an adventurous twist to visitors' experiences!

Discover the quirky charm of a phone booth perched atop City Hall in Lincoln, Illinois. Once a lookout for Cold War planes and later tornadoes, this unique attraction weaves humor and history. Anecdotes reveal its role in local firefighting efforts and the community's affection for this whimsical landmark. With travel tips and playful tales, the episode celebrates a blend of nostalgia and local pride, making it an entertaining exploration of an unexpected roadside gem.

Cory Lee, a travel blogger and advocate for disabled travelers, has explored 48 countries and all 7 continents. In this discussion, he shares the unique accessibility challenges wheelchair users face. He highlights incredibly accessible destinations, like Washington D.C. and Barcelona, while also touching on the hurdles in air travel and urban navigation. Cory's adventurous spirit shines through as he recounts thrilling experiences like paragliding in Switzerland and interacting with wildlife in South Africa, emphasizing innovation for inclusive travel.

Ed Conway, a journalist and author focusing on the raw materials that shape civilization, discusses the crucial role of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, in the global supply chain for ultra-pure quartz used in semiconductors. He reflects on the near disaster caused by Hurricane Helene and its implications for manufacturing vulnerabilities. The conversation highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness, the risks of relying on singular resources, and how challenges in quartz production could spark global innovations and better industry resilience.