The Atlas Obscura Podcast

John Entwistle, a key figure in the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers’ Club, shares the inspiring story of one of the nation’s pioneering marijuana dispensaries. He discusses how the club supported AIDS patients through a unique blend of community and activism. The conversation highlights the surprising link between gay rights and cannabis advocacy, and the club's evolution from an underground operation to a legitimate hub. Entwistle also reflects on their creative yet risky strategies that pushed boundaries and helped shape public perception of medical marijuana.

In the Pamir Mountains, an ancient cemetery reveals fascinating insights into early cannabis use. Discover how Iron Age rituals incorporated music, dance, and the psychoactive effects of high-THC cannabis. Unearth the connections between ancient funeral practices and joy, reflecting on historical descriptions from Herodotus. Explore the potency of cannabis as it sheds light on cultural interactions long before the Silk Road. The site offers a unique lens into humanity's relationship with cannabis across diverse ancient civilizations.

In this engaging discussion, legendary climber John Long shares his firsthand experience of the infamous Dope Lake incident in 1976, where a plane loaded with weed crashed in Yosemite. He recounts the chaos that unfolded as climbers capitalized on the unexpected bounty, turning their spring break into a wild adventure. The conversation dives into the mix of thrill and recklessness that characterized the recovery efforts, ultimately highlighting the event’s lasting impact on climbing lore.

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