

The Atlas Obscura Podcast
SiriusXM and Atlas Obscura
An audio guide to the world’s strange, incredible, and wondrous places. Co-founder Dylan Thuras and a neighborhood of Atlas Obscura reporters explore a new wonder every day, Monday through Thursday. In under 15 minutes, they’ll take you to an incredible place, and along the way, you’ll meet some fascinating people and hear their stories. Our theme and end credit music is composed by Sam Tyndall.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 26, 2024 • 15min
The Theater of Electricity (Classic)
Discover the awe-inspiring Theater of Electricity in Boston with the World's Largest Air-Insulated Van De Graaff Generator. Learn about lightning myths, the transformation of a historical research tool into an educational wonder, and the sensory experience of being near lightning strikes. Explore the dedication of educators at the Museum of Science in bringing science to life through daily lightning shows.

Jul 25, 2024 • 23min
Our Lives Through Hollywood’s Eyes
Writer and journalist Walt Hickey delves into the impact of film and TV on society, from shaping perceptions to influencing military technology. The discussion also touches on Hollywood's influence on recruitment, the shift towards adult merchandise sales, and the importance of exploring international cinema for new perspectives.

Jul 24, 2024 • 12min
The Arrow Stork
Delve into the fascinating story of a stork found with a spear, leading to breakthroughs in bird migration studies. Explore historical myths and misconceptions, unravel the journey of the Aerostork, and uncover the intricate patterns of bird migration across continents and the Gulf of Mexico.

Jul 23, 2024 • 16min
A 15,000 Year Old Tree and a Housing Development
Environmental journalist Shannon Osaka discusses the fascinating 15,000-year-old tree in Jurupa Valley, facing threats from a housing project. The clash between development and environmental protection highlights the challenges of land rights and conservation in the face of economic growth.

Jul 22, 2024 • 19min
Meet the Man Who Sets America’s Living Rooms on Fire
Meet John Allen, a researcher at the ATF Fire Research Laboratory, where investigators recreate arson attacks. They analyze burn patterns and discuss fire safety, different types of fires, and preventing home fires. Learn about the challenges of fire investigation and the evolution of fire safety.

Jul 19, 2024 • 13min
Discovery Hut (Classic)
Atlas Obscura's Gemma Tarlach shares what it's like to step inside a relic from the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, and to find traces of a famous lost party of explorers.READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/discovery-hut Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 18, 2024 • 22min
Hunting for Meteorites with Steve Arnold
Veteran meteorite hunter Steve Arnold discusses the exciting pursuit of hunting meteorites, recounting his experiences from the TV show Meteorite Men. The podcast explores the challenges, competition, and financial rewards of meteorite hunting, highlighting the significance of prompt study for scientific research.

Jul 17, 2024 • 17min
This 80s Icon Has A Shrine In A Berlin Hostel
Iconic 80s figure David Hasselhoff has a shrine in a Berlin hostel. Discover the unexpected connection between Hasselhoff and Germany through artifacts. Explore the rise of Hasselhoff as a singer and symbol of German reunification.

Jul 16, 2024 • 18min
My Life in Three Places: Dylan Thuras
Join explorer and co-founder, Dylan Thuras, as he shares how the Corn Palace, House on the Rock, and Gold Medal Flour have shaped his life. From childhood road trips to transformative experiences in Budapest, explore the impact of unique destinations on his passion for discovery.

Jul 15, 2024 • 15min
Mother Jones and the Battle of Blair Mountain
How a woman in her 70s inspired some of the biggest labor uprisings in American history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


