Mission Spooky

A few episodes ago, I promised we’d dive into the world of Side Show Gaffs — and today, we’re finally making good on that. It’s the perfect starting point, because many of the hoaxes and oddities we’ll explore later all trace their roots back here. A "gaff," in sideshow terminology, is a clever trick, illusion, or prop used to create an amazing attraction that isn't entirely real. It...

Memorial Day 1893 in Tyrone, PA, isn’t just a day of remembrance for armed service members who gave their lives. It is also a day that will forever be linked to the Walter L. Main Circus and the terrible accident that sent a train full of performers and animals hurling into the mountainside near the quaint town.  Sources "The Unscheduled Stop" By  Paula Zitzler ,  Susie O'Brien  · 2008

Before bright lights, TV deals, and packed arenas, wrestling found its footing in traveling carnivals. In this episode, we dive into the gritty, colorful world of carnival wrestling—where it all began. We’ll trace the early days of grapplers who took on all comers, highlight the men and women whose influence still shapes the sport, and spotlight a few groundbreaking promoters who turned sideshow b...

Step right up! In our first summer episode, we explore the curious history of bearded ladies — from sideshow sensations to real women who challenged beauty norms. Were they medical marvels, carnival curiosities, or trailblazers in their own right? We untangle the myths, the exploitation, and the empowerment behind one of history’s most iconic spectacles. Featured Music: Climas Interiores " Et...

In this episode, we explore one of the most chilling and bizarre murder-for-hire plots in American history: the Philadelphia Poison Ring. During the Great Depression and into the early 1940s, a quiet rowhome neighborhood became the center of a deadly scheme led by Italian immigrant cousins Herman and Paul Petrillo. Behind the veil of a magical fix or insurance fraud was a criminal operation that b...

In this hard-hitting hockey recap, we look back at the best and worst moments of last season, including the continuing saga of the President’s Trophy curse and the teams that just couldn’t survive the weight of being #1. We spotlight the elusive “phantom goalies,” those once-in-a-lifetime emergency backups and one-game wonders who lived the NHL dream for a fleeting moment. Then we turn the ice col...

In this special April Fools Day episode, we dive into a collection of eerie and unexplained mysteries tied to April. We uncover the bizarre 1897 airship mystery—one of the strangest UFO-adjacent stories from the late 19th century—before setting sail into the legend of the Ourang Medan and the mysterious Kaz II, two ships with stories as eerie as the open sea. Alongside these maritime and aerial en...

Tucked away in the heart of Philadelphia, Elfreth’s Alley is more than just a picturesque historic landmark—it’s a street with nearly 300 years of stories, secrets, and spirits. In this episode, we’ll explore the history of America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, from its origins as a colonial trade hub to the eerie tales whispered by those who walk its cobblestone paths today....

In this week's episode, we delve into the tragic tale of Mabel Betchel's mysterious murder in Allentown, PA, and the ghostly presence of Thomas Betchel. Uncover the twisted history behind this unsolved case and explore the lingering specter said to roam what was once Thomas's prison cell. Is it guilt, grief, or something more sinister that binds Thomas's spirit to this world? Tune in as we piece t...

Nestled near the crossroads of history, the Eutaw House has stood as a silent witness to centuries of change. Once a bustling inn and tavern along a well-traveled stagecoach route, this historic landmark has hosted weary travelers, military figures, and perhaps even spirits from its storied past. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating history of the Eutaw House—from its origins in the early 1...

As winter tightens its icy grip, ancient legends tell of creatures that emerge with the snow and cold. In this episode, we explore chilling tales from Inuit and Algonquin folklore, uncovering the fearsome Snow Wasset—an elusive predator that burrows beneath the snow—and the mighty Pamola, a spirit of the mountains with the power to control storms. Join us as we delve into the eerie myths of the fr...

Welcome to Season Six of Mission Spooky! Today, we’re diving into one of the most infamous objects in the paranormal world: the Dybbuk Box. You’ve probably heard the spine-chilling stories—a cursed wine cabinet haunted by a malevolent Jewish spirit, causing chaos, bad luck, and even death to those who dare to own it. But how much of this story is rooted in fact, and how much of it is just a clever...

Food is essential to life, but what happens when it turns deadly? This episode explores the bizarre and macabre tales of individuals who met their untimely ends because of food. From factory workers tragically killed by industrial food production to mysterious and fatal meals, we delve into the dark side of our culinary world. Stories include the potato poisoning that claimed lives, a box of choco...

Join us for a lovely chat with Thersa Matsuura, author of The Book of Japanese Folklore . Known for her podcast Uncanny Japan and decades of exploring Japan's cultural myths and legends, Thersa shares insights into her favorite Yokai, her journey through Japanese folklore, and which Yokai she wouldn't like to meet in a dark alley! We also discuss Halloween's rising popularity in Japan, exploring h...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and legally complex world of human remains. From the strict laws preventing the keeping of bones to the eerie allure of necromancy, we explore its origins in ancient Greece. We tackle the bizarre case of the witch who stole bones from New Orleans' Holt Cemetery, sparking a scandal known as "Bonegazi". Plus, we touch on the grim history of resurrectioni...

Happy Indigenous People's Day! In this episode, we expose the unsettling truth about stolen Indigenous peoples' remains in some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the Smithsonian, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Illinois State Museum. We dive into the ethical and legal battles surrounding the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), a law design...

In this episode, we discuss the disturbing and complex history of cannibalism. We explore the use of human body parts in corpse medicine —a practice once considered medicinal. We then dive into the legal questions surrounding the consumption of human flesh, examining the societal and cultural implications of such acts. Shifting to science, we analyze the psychological, biological, and evolutionary...

In this end of Summer episode, we dive deep into some of Japan's most notorious and unsettling Yokai. These spirits and supernatural beings evoke fear, fascination, and intrigue. Join us as we explore the legends surrounding these five chilling figures and more: 1. Oni : The fearsome Oni, Japan’s iconic ogre-like demons, take center stage as we examine their immense strength, wicked nature, an...

In this special episode, released on the day of the Hungry Ghost Festival 2024, we delve into the haunting and fascinating world of Hungry Ghosts. These spirits, driven by insatiable desires and unfulfilled cravings, are a significant part of both folklore and religious teachings in East Asian cultures. Join us as we explore the lore and philosophy surrounding these tormented souls: 1. Gaki : Disc...

In the third installment of our Yokai series, we explore various unique and captivating Yokai - priests, wizards, and inanimate objects. These supernatural beings, each with distinct characteristics and stories, offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Join us as we delve into the lore of seven intriguing Yokai: 1. Hitotsume Nyūdō: Discover the eerie tales of the Hi...

In the second episode of our series, we delve into the enchanting and often mischievous world of animal-based Yokai. These supernatural beings, rooted in Japanese folklore, take the form of animals with magical abilities and intriguing personalities. Join us as we explore the lore and legends of four fascinating Yokai: 1. Kitsune : Uncover the tales of the Kitsune, the magical fox spirit known for...

Welcome to our debut episode of Yokai Summer , where we dive into the fascinating world of Japanese folklore and explore the mysterious creatures known as Yokai. In this episode, we journey through the tales and lore of five intriguing, water-based Yokai: 1. Kappa : Learn about the water-dwelling trickster known for its unique appearance and mischievous behavior. We'll discuss its habits, stre...

We love our Pennsylvania Folk Heroes and today we talk about two of our favorites: Loop Hill Ike and Davey "Robber" Lewis. Loop Hill Ike was the name of an African American cryptid /witch hunter and paranormal "investigator" most likely based on the real person, Isaac Gaines (1837-1915). Davey "Robber" Lewis was known as the Robin Hood of Pennsylvania (March 4, 1790 –...

Join us on this journey into the mysterious world of Potter County, Pennsylvania, where legends and lore come to life! In this episode, discover the cryptid Giwoggle, and meet The Potter Nondescript. We also uncover the chilling story of the Ghost of Amandon Baker and unravel the eerie legend of the Goblin Scarecrow of Potter County. As we explore these spine-tingling tales, enjoy the haunting mus...

It's not a secret that Kiki and Cord are hockey fans. So it made sense to celebrate the Finals, now in full swing with some weird hockey nonsense, superstitions, and curses! Music provided by Psykotic Refuge with "Lunar Ice Cream Sandwich".