

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

Oct 2, 2023 • 16min
Searching for Squids with Dr. Sarah McAnulty
We go on a journey through the depths of the ocean, meeting a different squid deity at each stop along the way. Our guide is cephalopod expert, biologist and science educator, Dr. Sarah McAnulty.LEARN MORE: Sarah is teaching a course this fall about the creatures that live in the deep sea. It starts October 3, 2023 and you can find more information here. If you want to sign up, you can use promo code CEPHALOPODCAST to take 15% off!

Sep 29, 2023 • 17min
Secret Places with Ashley Ray (Classic)
Podcaster Ashley Ray and the hosts discuss the underappreciated Midwest city of Rockford, Illinois. They explore its hidden gems, unique history, and its influence on Ashley Ray's career as a TV writer.

Sep 28, 2023 • 14min
The 49th Parallel (Classic)
A listener takes us to a town on the edge of the longest undefended border in the world. Note: US-Canada border regulations have been updated since this episode first aired.READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/uscanada-border-slashGREAT NEWS: We’re up for an award - and you can help us win! Our podcast has been named a finalist for the Signal Awards! Go to vote.signalaward.com and vote for us in the best commute podcast category through Oct 5!

Sep 27, 2023 • 10min
Lake Karachay (Classic)
Unravel the mysteries of Lake Karachay, a former nuclear facility in Russia. Explore the dangers and transformation of this highly radioactive area. Dive into Angela Pelster's fictional story inspired by the nuclear disaster. Discover the secrets of Lake Karachay and the inaccessible nuclear plant. Stay tuned for a special offer from IXL, an online learning program for kids.

Sep 26, 2023 • 19min
The Dedan Kimathi Post Office Tree (Classic)
The podcast explores the Dedan Kimathi Post Office's role in Kenya's struggle for Independence. It discusses the formation of the Kenya land and freedom army, the tactics used in the fight for decolonization, and the impact of Dedan Kimathi. It also addresses the challenges parents face when helping their children with homework and introduces an online learning program as a solution.

8 snips
Sep 25, 2023 • 20min
Twin Oaks
An intentional community in rural central Virginia challenges the concept of family by exploring the idea of having multiple parental figures. They discuss the benefits of having primaries and the strong bonds formed with children. The concept of shared child care is also explored, along with the challenges parents face in helping their children with homework.

Sep 22, 2023 • 15min
Moses Gates and the Chrysler Building Eagles (Classic)
Urban planner Moses Gates shares his thrilling adventure of sneaking into the deserted 61st floor of the iconic Chrysler Building to enjoy the breathtaking city view from the Eagles' back. He also discusses the legalities and code of conduct of urban exploration, reflecting on the importance of opening access to cultural icons.

Sep 21, 2023 • 16min
The Fear Lab
At Denmark’s largest haunted house attraction, it’s not just about the screams. Researchers are studying the effects – good and bad – that fear has on humans READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/the-science-of-horror-fear

Sep 20, 2023 • 14min
The Ark of Citrus
Learn about the rise of the Washington Naval Orange, the importance of the Givadon Citrus Variety Collection, and the passionate work of Tracy Kahn in preserving the extensive collection of citrus trees. Explore the origins and diversity of citrus fruits, including unique varieties like the Australian finger lime and Buddha's hand. Discover efforts to combat citrus greening disease and the significance of protecting and preserving the diversity of citrus fruits.

Sep 19, 2023 • 14min
Getting lost in Golden Gate Park
Many of us rely on digital maps and GPS to get anywhere these days. Hear what happens when Producer Amanda McGowan finds herself lost in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park for a sport you may have never heard of – orienteering – which forces participants to navigate checkpoints with old fashioned maps and compasses.MORE: If you think you might want to try orienteering, find a local group here.