A few episodes ago, I promised weâd dive into the world of Side Show Gaffs â and today, weâre finally making good on that. Itâs the perfect starting point, because many of the hoaxes and oddities weâll 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's not meant to be a malicious fraud but rather a theatrical enhancement for entertainment.
Memorial Day 1893 in Tyrone, PA, isnât 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.Â
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 wrestlingâwhere it all began. Weâll 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 bouts into the foundation of modern professional wrestling.
Step right up! In our first summer episode, we explore the curious history of bearded ladies â 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 historyâs most iconic spectacles.
Featured Music: Climas Interiores " Eterno retorno"
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 blended superstition, arsenic, and murder for profit. We uncover how the ring manipulated Italian immigrants with promises of love spells and good fortune, only to lead many to their deaths. From poisoned dinners to bludgeonings, this episode dives deep into the Petrillos, thier accomplices, and the victims.
In this hard-hitting hockey recap, we look back at the best and worst moments of last season, including the continuing saga of the Presidentâs Trophy curse and the teams that just couldnât survive the weight of being #1. We spotlight the elusive âphantom goalies,â 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 cold, diving into the darker side of the game: fatal and near-death injuries that shook the league, the players who faced lifetime bans, and the moments that pushed the rulesâand bodiesâto the limit.
Finally, we skate into the history books with the most penalty-laden game ever played, complete with chaos, misconduct, and one very familiar team.
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 mysteryâone of the strangest UFO-adjacent stories from the late 19th centuryâbefore setting sail into the chilling legends of the Ourang Medan and Kaz II, two ships with stories as eerie as the open sea itself. Alongside these maritime and aerial enigmas, we explore key historical events that took place in April, discuss what the month is nationally recognized for, and take a quick look at the curious origins of April Fools' Day. From high strangeness to historical oddities, this episode is packed with mystery and intrigue!Our featured music is "Trouble" by Ghost Cop.
Tucked away in the heart of Philadelphia, Elfrethâs Alley is more than just a picturesque historic landmarkâitâs a street with nearly 300 years of stories, secrets, and spirits.
In this episode, weâll explore the history of Americaâs 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.
Do spirits haunt this area? Join us as we explore the main stories connected with the alley. Discover why this charming piece of history strongly connects to the past and the present.
Grab Magic Mind now! Get up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off a one-time purchase with code MSPOOKY20 at magicmind.com/MSPOOKY20.
Our featured music is "Nightshade" by Antipole.
NOTES:
Elfreth's Alley PodcastUncovering Queer Domesticity - Isabel Marie Steven Philadelphia Rowhouse Manual
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 together the clues and uncover what may have happened that fateful night in 1903.
* Promo Code: This episode is sponsored by â Magic Mindâ , the ultimate productivity shot to keep you focused and energized. Use our promo code MSPOOKY20 for a discount on your next order!
* Featured Music: This week's featured track is "The Thirst" by â Mindless Faithâ .
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 Houseâfrom its origins in the early 1800s to its role in Pennsylvaniaâs evolving landscape. Who were the notable figures that passed through its doors? How did it survive wars, industrial shifts, and the passage of time? And what remains of it today?
While legends of hauntings persist, the true history of the Eutaw House is just as intriguing as the ghost stories. Join us as we delve into the facts, myths, and mysteries of one of Pennsylvaniaâs forgotten landmarks.
Try Magic Mind! For a limited time, you can save up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one-time purchases with code MSPOOKY20 at checkout
https://www.magicmind.com/MSPOOKY20
This week's featured music is from Antipole with the song "Midnight Shadows" Deus Ex Lumina Remix.
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 Wassetâan elusive predator that burrows beneath the snowâand 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 frozen wilderness and the beings that lurk within.
Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://www.magicmind.com/SPOOKYJAN Featured Music: "Say Something" - The Dead Electrics Discord: https://discord.gg/TERNyNKcQA
Welcome to Season Six of Mission Spooky! Today, weâre diving into one of the most infamous objects in the paranormal world: the Dybbuk Box. Youâve probably heard the spine-chilling storiesâa 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 cleverly marketed hoax?
In this episode, weâre unraveling the tangled web of truth and fiction surrounding the Dybbuk Box. First, weâll explore the boxâs origins, tracing the story back to its creator, Kevin Mannis, who admitted to fabricating the tale as part of a creative writing project. Then weâll examine how Zak Bagans, host of Ghost Adventures and self-proclaimed expert in all things haunted, turned this fabricated object into a cornerstone of his paranormal empire. Spoiler alert: It involves a lot of smoke, mirrors, and maybe some strategic editing.
But this isnât just about debunking the Dybbuk Box as a hoax. Weâre also diving deep into the cultural and historical roots of the dybbuk itself. What is a dybbuk in Jewish mysticism? Where does the concept come from, and how has it been misrepresented in popular culture? Weâll shed light on the true nature of these restless spirits and the sacred traditions surrounding them, traditions that deserve far more respect than they often receive in the world of paranormal sensationalism.
So, whether youâre here to learn the truth, enjoy some light Zak Bagans roasting, or explore the rich tapestry of Jewish mysticism, this episode has something for you. Letâs separate the facts from the fiction, the lore from the lies, and maybe have a few laughs along the way. Grab your salt circle and settle inâitâs going to be a fascinating ride!
BONUS: We read our favorite eBay sales of Dybbuk Boxes for your hearing pleasure.
Thank you to Magic Mind for partnering with our podcast! As a special bonus, listeners who visit MagicMind.com/SPOOKYJAN will enjoy an exclusive 45% off the 24-hour bundle. Make 2025 the year you prioritize your mental resilience!
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 chocolate disaster, the sticky horror of a caramel catastrophe, toxic mushrooms, and even the dangers lurking in poultry processing plants. It's a feast of the fatal, blending history, true crime, and a chilling look at our relationship with what we eat.
The Flaky Foodie: Molasses: History of a Holiday Sweetener with Kiki of Mission Spooky
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 how this Western tradition has been embraced and transformed with a unique Japanese flair.
Resources for Thersa Matsuura and Her Work:
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 resurrectionists and the life of Grandison Harris, a man who was both a gravedigger and a medical assistant. Join us for a bone-chilling journey through history, magic, and the macabre.
Happy Indigenous People's Day!
In this episode, we expose the unsettling truth about stolen Indigenous peoples' remains in some of the worldâs 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 designed to return these sacred remains to their rightful communities.
Kiki touches on the erroneous pseudo-science of phrenology and how it led to a glut of both legal and questionably obtained skulls in museums across the country.
Wrapping up, we touch on the curious case of Stone Man Willie, a case of experimental embalming that led an unfortunate soul to be a funeral home attraction for over 120 years.
Join us for a sobering discussion on the pastâs lingering injustices and the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights.
Check a museum or university near you with the ProPublica Repatriation Database!
In this episode, we discuss the disturbing and complex history of cannibalism. We explore the use of human body parts in corpse medicineâa 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 aspects of cannibalism, including how man-made conditions, such as famine or social breakdown, can drive individuals to cannibalistic behaviors. We unravel the psychology of wendigo psychosisâthe haunting fear of turning into a flesh-eating monster.
This episode offers a chilling look at how cannibalism has shaped human history and ethics.
In this episode:
This Guy Served His Friends Tacos Made from His Own Amputated Leg
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, Japanâs iconic ogre-like demons, take center stage as we examine their immense strength, wicked nature, and the role they play as both villains and guardians in folklore. Weâll dive into their cultural symbolism and the tales that have kept their fearsome reputation alive for centuries.
2. Futakuchi Onna: Enter the eerie world of the Futakuchi Onna, the woman with a second mouth hidden behind her head. We'll unravel the folklore behind this grotesque and mysterious figure, her origins, and the strange circumstances that lead to her dual identity.
3. Nopperabo: The faceless Nopperabo roams the night, leaving terror in its wake with its blank, featureless visage. We'll explore if this Yokai is a thing all its own or if it's connected to several other tricksters.
4. Rokurokubi: Discover the haunting tale of the Rokurokubi, women whose necks stretch to supernatural lengths by night. We'll discuss their dual nature as both cursed and playful beings, as well as their place in eerie ghost stories that question identity and transformation.
5. WanyĆ«dĆ: The fiery wheel of the WanyĆ«dĆ, bearing a tormented face at its center, has long terrorized those who glimpse it. Weâll delve into the harrowing legends of this vengeful spirit, known to punish the wicked, and its chilling connection to Hell and karmic retribution.
Our featured music this week is from Feed the Right Wolf and thier song "Spin Cycle".
In our Uncanny Corner segment, we turn our focus to Japan's famous themed restaurants. From ninja waiters to creepy eateries, weâll discuss the creativity behind these immersive dining experiences and whether similar concepts could thrive in the United States.
Tune in for a thrilling episode filled with spooky stories and cultural curiosities as we navigate the world of Yokai and imaginative dining.
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: Discover the eerie tales of the Gaki, spirits condemned to eternal hunger due to their past misdeeds.
2. Naegatsuku: Learn about the Naegatsuku, ghostly beings whose unquenchable thirst and hunger lead them to desperate and haunting behaviors.
3. Jikininki: Uncover the chilling legends of the Jikininki, human-eating ghosts driven by an insatiable hunger for the flesh of the dead. We'll explore their terrifying transformations, the moral lessons embedded in their tales, and their role in Buddhist parables about the consequences of greed and selfishness.
In addition to these captivating stories, we delve into the Buddhist philosophy of hungry ghosts, exploring the spiritual and moral teachings that underpin their existence. We'll discuss how these beings symbolize the dangers of unrestrained desires, the karmic repercussions of one's actions, and how the living can help alleviate their suffering through acts of compassion and generosity.
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 NyĆ«dĆ: Discover the eerie tales of the Hitotsume NyĆ«dĆ, a one-eyed monk who appears suddenly to travelers, causing fear and bewilderment. We'll explore its origins, its unsettling appearances, and the legends that surround this mysterious figure.
2. Hitotsume KozĆ: Learn about the Hitotsume KozĆ, a mischievous one-eyed child spirit known for playing pranks on unsuspecting humans. We'll discuss its playful nature, its connections to good fortune, and the cultural significance it holds.
3. Kasa Obake and Tsukumogami: Enter the whimsical world of Tsukumogami, everyday objects that come to life after a hundred years. We'll focus on the Kasa Obake, the iconic umbrella spirit, and explore the fascinating stories of other animated objects that capture the imagination.
4. Kuro BĆzu: Unveil the dark and shadowy presence of the Kuro BĆzu, a black monk spirit that lurks in the night. We'll delve into its ominous reputation, its role in Japanese ghost stories, and the eerie encounters people have reported.
5. Daitengu: Ascend to the mountain peaks with the Daitengu, the great tengu spirits known for their immense power and wisdom. We'll explore their dual nature as both protectors and challengers, their legendary skills, and their impact on Japanese mythology.
6. KanibĆzu: Plunge into the depths with the KanibĆzu, the crab monk who emerges from the sea to challenge fishermen and sailors. We'll uncover its peculiar habits, its interactions with humans, and the folklore that paints a vivid picture of this coastal Yokai.
7. Shirime: Encounter the bizarre and humorous Shirime, a Yokai with an eye in place of its anus. We'll delve into its surprising appearances, its role in humorous ghost stories, and the cultural context that gives this Yokai its unique place in folklore.
To conclude the episode, we introduce our closing segment, Uncanny Corner, where we discuss the fascinating world of Japanese vending machines. From the incredibly convenient to the bizarre, we'll explore how these ubiquitous machines cater to every need and curiosity.
Our featured music is from To Be Forgotten with the song "Shapeshifter".