The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Listeners dive into stories that bring daily commutes to life, revealing how these journeys foster community ties. Personal anecdotes showcase the beauty and challenges of commuting, turning mundane trips into memorable experiences. A construction surveyor shares insights from 27 years of exploring Iowa's natural spaces, emphasizing the joy of enhancing outdoor leisure. They also invite tales of family travel adventures, asking for reflections on the first trips with kids and the lasting memories made on the road.

James Hagedorn, a geology curator at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, unpacks a thrilling discovery of dinosaur bones found during parking lot renovations. He likens geologists to detectives, piecing together ancient histories. Dive into the lush, tropical Colorado of the Cretaceous period and contrast it with today. Hagedorn also shares insights about the asteroid impact responsible for the dinosaurs' extinction and emphasizes the excitement of scientific curiosity that drives these remarkable findings.

Discover the hidden attic of whimsical musical instruments created by Gunnar Schonbeck, once a secret for college students. Dive into the inspiring legacy of musicians intertwining traditional sounds with innovative creativity. Explore the art of crafting music from everyday objects, highlighting joy and imagination in composition. Witness the transformation of junk into musical treasures, fostering communal spirit through workshops. Finally, celebrate the idea that anyone can make music as discarded instruments become part of a vibrant community exhibition.

Henry S. Rosenthal, the owner of the world's largest collection of two-headed taxidermied calves in San Francisco and a drummer from the punk band Crime, shares his fascinating journey. He discusses the life of Lucky, a two-headed calf that inspired his collection, and the personal stories behind each unique specimen. The conversation touches on the emotional connections people form with oddities and the vibrant cultural scene in San Francisco, exploring how curiosity drives art and preservation while balancing the joy and sadness surrounding these rare creatures.

Lauren Yoshiko, a food and cannabis writer from Portland, shares the fascinating history of Ota Tofu, America's oldest tofu shop founded in 1911. She discusses the shop's traditional, labor-intensive process that preserves unique flavor and texture. With personal anecdotes, she highlights its significance during the Japanese immigration wave and the resilience of her family through the challenges of WWII. Lauren emphasizes the importance of keeping these time-honored techniques alive in a rapidly changing world.

Listeners share quirky stories about their unique neighbors, from opera singers to eccentric characters. Heartfelt recollections of young love add a nostalgic touch, capturing the essence of college life. A couple’s journey to create friendships in Seneca Falls emphasizes the power of community. The podcast also invites anecdotes about the commuting experience, revealing the ups and downs of daily travel and the lasting impressions made by familiar faces on the train.

Discover the intriguing practice of ostracism in ancient Athens, where citizens voted to banish their fellow citizens using pottery shards. Learn how this ritual shaped political dynamics and social hierarchies at the Agora. Notable cases like Aristides the Just illustrate the personal rivalries behind these decisions. The discussion draws parallels to modern issues like cancel culture, inviting reflection on the motivations and impacts of public exclusion today. Unearth the secrets of the Agora and its role in the evolution of democratic principles.

Discover the fascinating diversity of citrus fruits beyond just navel oranges. Learn about Eliza Tibbetts and her role in California's citrus industry. Explore the Givadon Citrus Variety Collection with over 1,050 unique varieties. Uncover the impact of human cultivation on citrus hybrids and their market appeal. Dive into the challenges of citrus cultivation, including efforts to combat the citrus greening disease. Celebrate the rich history and conservation of these fragrant fruits that have shaped our culinary landscape.

Rolando Pujol, an executive producer at ABC, shares his love for quirky roadside attractions in his book about Americana. He reminisces on nostalgic icons like Muffler Men and discusses the charming, albeit fading, billboards that define American travel. The conversation takes a deep dive into the decline of these attractions, while also glimmering with hope for their revitalization. Listeners are invited to share their own roadside stories, creating a delightful celebration of America's unique travel culture.

Discover the vibrant world of Corita Kent, a nun who transformed art into a tool for activism and inspiration. Learn how her colorful Pop Art challenged the status quo and sparked tensions with the Catholic Church. Explore the new art center dedicated to her legacy in downtown LA and experience her innovative blend of faith and creativity. Delve into Corita's journey as she navigated societal constraints while fostering a sense of community through art. Plus, find out how her classroom rules continue to inspire today's artists.