The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Historian and author Deborah Cohen takes us back to the prestigious Hotel Imperial in Vienna, where influential journalists warned about dictatorship. Explore the lives of foreign correspondents, their encounters with notable figures like Hitler, Mussolini, and Gandhi, and their impact on American public opinion.

Joe Taft, a pioneer in raising and rescuing big cats in Indiana, shares his journey from a few feline friends to caring for hundreds of these majestic creatures. Explore the mission of the Exotic Feline Rescue Center, the care of big cats, and the challenges of living with exotic feline pets. Follow Joe's inspiring mission to provide sanctuary for over 140 mistreated big cats at his rescue center.

Discover the surprising history of Old Cahawba, Alabama - from its days as a vibrant state capital to a desolate ghost town. Unravel myths surrounding the name 'Cajaba', explore its evolution from a Wild West town to a wealthy city, and learn about its rise, fall, and resilience as an archaeological park.

The podcast explores the mysterious Windsor Hum that plagued residents in Windsor, Ontario, with a revelation near the Detroit River. The sound originated from Zug Island, sparking debates on its industrial origins or unexplained sources. The episode delves into the intriguing speculations and resolutions linked to industrial activities on the island.

Explore the creation of the Tree of 40 Fruits in Silicon Valley, a living masterpiece of 40 stone fruit varieties grafted together. Learn about the art of grafting trees, inspired by mythical tales and showcasing diverse fruits. Follow the journey of this unique tree's spring growth and its ties to the valley's agricultural heritage.

Author and science writer Mary Roach discusses killer trees, danger tree assessors, and the use of explosives to mitigate the risks posed by enormous dying trees. The podcast also delves into the art and danger of tree felling, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting nature's risks.

Join Michelle Cassidy and Diana Hubbell from the Atlas Obscura Places Team as they share stories about celebrity trees in Washington DC and Berlin. Discover the resilience of Stumpy, a beloved cherry tree, and explore a hidden memorial in a park filled with monuments. From genetic clones to anonymous tributes, these trees leave a lasting impact on all who visit them.

Discover how Melbourne's innovative tree program led to an outpouring of love letters to trees instead of maintenance reports. Listen to heartwarming stories of personal tributes, neighborhood trees, and over 10,000 love letters exchanged between people and trees in Melbourne. Share your own tree love letters and reminisce about memories with nature.

Professional taster Mandy Naglich discusses the fascinating backstory of Meyer lemons, their unique taste compared to clementines and lemons, the history of Meyer lemons named after plant explorer Frank Meyer, and the efforts to control their impact on the citrus industry. The episode also explores tasting techniques and flavor exploration with Naglich.

Explore the history and challenges of domesticating Musk Oxen at a farm in Alaska. Discover the unique wool and personalities of these majestic creatures, and learn about the process of harvesting their valuable kivyot for financial sustenance.