This week on Naturally Off Topic, we’re flipping the script with rapid-fire weirdness, wild escapes, unsettling legends, and head-scratching headlines—because some stories are too weird to share. From an escaped death row inmate whose life shaped U.S. law to ice cream trucks that doubled as drug fronts, this chaos cauldron is filled with eerie legends, ridiculous crimes, and facts that make you go, “wait… seriously?” 👁️ Eerie escapes ✈️ A missing plane 🍝 Noodles in the woods 🦷 Tooth-in-eye surgery 💄 Lemon juice invisibility …and more. All bite-sized. All totally off topic. 🎧 Listen now—then message us your favorite mini-mystery. 🔗 naturallyofftopic.podbean.com 🎧 New episodes drop every Thursday wherever you get your pods.

What begins as a Cold War-era experiment quickly spirals into one of the internet’s most infamous and terrifying urban legends. In this solo episode, Megan takes you deep into the chilling tale of the Russian Sleep Experiment—breaking down the viral creepypasta, the real science behind sleep deprivation, and the eerie military research that makes this legend feel just a little too plausible. From MKUltra to real-life sleep studies, this story forces us to ask: How far can the human mind be pushed before it breaks? Tune in for facts, fiction, and the fine line between horror and reality. 💀 Listen now… if you can stay awake.

💰 A devoted mother, loving wife, and a fighter against cancer—or so she claimed. For 8 years, Amanda Riley convinced the world she was battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma, gaining sympathy, donations, and a platform in the process. But when an anonymous tip lands on an investigative reporter’s desk, Riley’s own words start to unravel her web of lies. Join us this Thursday, 4/3, as we dive into the shocking story of Scamanda—the woman who faked cancer for money, fame, and attention. 🎙️🔍 Learn more about the story here: https://naturallyofftopic.podbean.com/p/scamanda-the-amanda-riley-cancer-hoax/ Production Note: This episode is based on extensive research and storytelling to bring you an engaging and accurate exploration of the Amanda Riley Case. If you have questions or want to dive deeper, DM us on Instagram at @naturallyofftopic. #Scamanda #TrueCrime #Fraud #FakeCancer

Step into the shadows and unlock the secrets of one of history’s most mysterious and controversial organizations—the Illuminati. In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, Megan and Mariah explore the origins of this infamous secret society, from its founding in 1776 by Adam Weishaupt to the conspiracy theories that refuse to die. Were the Illuminati truly disbanded, or did they retreat into the shadows, orchestrating world events from behind the scenes? Why do their symbols—like the All-Seeing Eye and the Pyramid—keep appearing in pop culture, politics, and even on our currency? And how did this short-lived Enlightenment-era group evolve into a cornerstone of modern conspiracy theories? Join us as we separate fact from fiction, uncover the truth about the New World Order, and question why secret societies continue to fascinate us. Don’t miss this deep dive into the legend, the paranoia, and the cultural obsession with the Illuminati! Tune in now and let us know: Do you believe the Illuminati ever truly disappeared, or are they still pulling the strings behind the curtain?

What happens when ordinary people are placed in positions of absolute power—or total submission? In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we take a deep dive into the Stanford Prison Experiment, one of the most infamous psychological studies in history. Conducted in 1971 by Dr. Philip Zimbardo, this experiment was meant to simulate prison life—but it quickly spiraled out of control. From psychological breakdowns to disturbing abuses of power, the study exposed just how easily people can conform to the roles of oppressor and victim. We’ll break down: 🔹 The shocking events that unfolded inside Stanford’s mock prison 🔹 How quickly the guards became authoritarian—and the prisoners became submissive 🔹 Why Zimbardo ended the experiment early and how it changed psychology forever 🔹 The controversial legacy of the study and its connections to real-world prison abuse, including Abu Ghraib Was this experiment a groundbreaking revelation or an unethical disaster? Let’s get into it. Learn more here: https://naturallyofftopic.podbean.com/p/the-stanford-prison-experiment-%e2%80%93-a-psychological-descent-into-power-and-control/ 🎙️ New episode drops Friday, March 21st! Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts.

Welcome to Naturally Off Topic, where we discuss legends, theories, conspiracies, and more—and today, we’re diving into the ”more” part of our podcast. After covering the chilling case of The American Nightmare, we decided to have a few drinks, hit record, and let the conversation go off the rails. This is Drunk Topic, where we revisit past cases, share our unfiltered thoughts, and see where the chaos takes us. Was there more to The American Nightmare than we originally thought? Do we have new theories after a few glasses of wine? And how did we even end up talking about this? Pour yourself a drink, buckle up, and join us as we go off-topic in the best (and possibly worst) way possible. 🔗 Listen now! 🍸 Drink responsibly. 😂 Prepare for some unhinged moments.

The chilling case of American Nightmare continues. In this two-part deep dive, we break down one of the most shocking true crime stories—where the victims became suspects, and the real perpetrator lurked in the shadows. In Part 1, we uncovered the terrifying night Denise Huskins was kidnapped and how law enforcement dismissed it as a hoax. Now, in Part 2, we reveal the truth: Who was behind the abduction? How did Denise escape? And what lasting scars did this ordeal leave behind? Was this a case of media manipulation, police failure, or something even darker? Let’s unravel the facts. 🔍 Sources: 📺 American Nightmare – Netflix Documentary 🎙 Call Her Daddy Podcast – Interview with Denise Huskins 🎙 Serialously Podcast 🎙 Mile Higher Podcast 📌 CrimeCon Discussions & Coverage ⚠ Disclaimer: Naturally Off Topic has not conducted original reporting on this case. Our discussion is based on the sources listed above. We strive for accuracy, using multiple references to verify facts, though creative liberties may be taken in certain cases. Have thoughts on the case? DM us on Instagram @naturallyofftopic 📩

In this two-part deep dive, we unravel the chilling case known as the American Nightmare. What started as a terrifying home invasion turned into a media-fueled spectacle, where the victims—Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn—were painted as the villains in their own story. In Part 1 (February 27th), we break down the night of the kidnapping, the bizarre ransom note, and how law enforcement refused to believe Denise had actually been taken. In Part 2 (March 6th), we explore the shocking truth behind the case, the real perpetrator, and the lasting impact on Denise and Aaron’s lives. Was this a case of ”the boy who cried wolf,” or a failure of the justice system to protect victims? Let’s get into it. Sources American Nightmare – Netflix Documentary Call Her Daddy Podcast – Interview with Denise Huskins Serialously Podcast Mile Higher Podcast CrimeCon Discussions & Coverage Disclaimer Naturally Off Topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed above). We work hard to ensure that everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible, using multiple sources to verify facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. If you have any questions or concerns, please DM us on Instagram: @naturallyofftopic

In the grand finale of our Illuminati series, we dive deep into the most infamous conspiracy theories surrounding this shadowy secret society. From the alleged New World Order and hidden symbols in pop culture to the mysterious deaths of world leaders—could the Illuminati really be pulling the strings behind global events? We’ll break down: 🔺 The New World Order – Is a global elite working toward one-world control? 👁️ The All-Seeing Eye – Freemason symbols, the dollar bill, and pop culture references. 🎤 Illuminati in Entertainment – Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Rihanna, and the power of symbols. 🕵️‍♂️ Major World Events – The JFK assassination, 9/11, and other alleged Illuminati plots. 🧠 Why We Believe – The psychology behind conspiracy theories. Tune in as we separate fact from fiction and uncover why the Illuminati remains one of the most captivating conspiracy theories of all time. Don’t miss this thrilling conclusion to our deep dive into the secret society that never was… or is it? 🔎 Sources: The Illuminati Conspiracies: Who Really Runs the World? (Show Notes) Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed https://thenextcrossing.com/mysteries-of-quinta-de-regaleira https://www.history.com/news/freemasons-facts-symbols-handshake-meaning https://www.history.com/topics/european-history/enlightenment https://www.ghlilley.com.au/blogs/news/freemason-symbols https://scottishritenmj.org/blog/masonic-handshake https://www.history.com/news/freemason-secrets-revealed https://fatima.org/the-masonic-revolution-1910/ https://www.regaleira.pt/en/quinta-da-regaleira https://visitsintra.travel/en/visit/monuments/palace-and-quinta-da-regaleira https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry_in_Portugal https://freemason.org/masonic-ranks/ https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/religion-spirituality/freemasonry/the-basic-principles-of-freemasons-195589/ 🎙️ Production Notes: This episode was produced and hosted by Megan and Mariah. Edited and mixed by Megan. Music and sound picked by Mariah (We do not own the music). Special thanks to our listeners for joining us on this deep dive into the world of conspiracy theories. 🎧 Listen now on Naturally Off Topic! #Illuminati #ConspiracyTheories #NewWorldOrder #JFK #PopCultureMyths

In part two of our Kennedy saga, Mariah takes us through the formative years of the Kennedy dynasty, leading right up to John F. Kennedy’s presidency. We explore their family dynamics, political ascension, and the ambitions that shaped a legacy of power. Stay tuned! In just a couple of weeks, we’ll dive into the defining moments of JFK’s presidency and the lasting impact of his leadership. Don’t miss this journey through history’s most captivating political dynasty!

In the first installment of our Kennedy saga, we delve into the powerful and controversial legacy of America’s most famous political dynasty. Drawing from Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed, we uncover the secrets, scandals, and the impact of their influence. From political triumphs to personal tragedies, this episode begins an in-depth exploration of the Kennedy family like never before.

Join Megan for this mini-episode as she unravels the mysteries surrounding the Freemasons—a secretive society steeped in history and symbolism. Discover their origins, influence during the Enlightenment, and the enigmatic meanings behind their famous symbols and handshakes. Megan also takes you on a journey to Portugal, recounting her visit to Quinta da Regaleira, a stunning estate shrouded in intrigue. From walking down the Initiation Well to exploring the palace grounds, this episode brings you tales of mystery, history, and travel adventure. Plus, Megan shares her reflections on the legends and secrets she encountered along the way.

In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we delve into the perplexing disappearance of Maura Murray, a case that has haunted investigators and captivated true crime enthusiasts for nearly two decades. Maura, a 21-year-old nursing student, vanished on a cold February night in 2004 after her car was found abandoned on a rural New Hampshire road. What led her to that desolate spot, and why did she disappear without a trace? We’ll walk through the timeline of events leading up to her disappearance, the cryptic clues left behind, and the theories that range from foul play to voluntary escape. Was Maura running from something—or toward a new life? Join us as we unravel one of the most enduring mysteries of our time, exploring the facts, the speculation, and the human story behind the headlines. This is a case you won’t want to miss. Production Note: This episode is based on extensive research and storytelling to bring you an engaging and accurate exploration of Krampus. If you have questions or want to dive deeper, DM us on Instagram at @naturallyofftopic.

Get ready to dive into the chilling legend of Krampus, the horned, fearsome anti-Santa who stalks the streets every December 5th. In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we peel back the layers of folklore to uncover the ancient roots of Krampus in Alpine traditions, his connection to St. Nicholas, and his transformation into a modern-day cultural icon. From the eerie parades of Krampusnacht to his resurgence in pop culture, this is a tale of light and shadow, joy and consequence. Explore the pagan origins of this mythical creature, his enduring role in balancing holiday cheer with a dose of fear, and the surprising ways Krampus has made his way into modern traditions. As we journey through the myths and stories, we’ll ask: what does Krampus reveal about our fascination with the darker side of the holidays? Tune in for a festive yet haunting exploration of the legend that reminds us that even in the season of giving, consequences are never far away. Show Notes/Sources: Krampus - Britannica Hel: Norse Goddess of Death - Study.com The Story of Krampus - Fear Columbus Krampusnacht Tradition - National Today Krampus in Pop Culture - Seawitch Botanicals Krampus Legend - Rare Dirndl Blog Does Krampus Bring Balance? - Thinking Error-Free Krampus’ Role in Psychology - The Room Psy Krampus in Modern Media - Yahoo Production Note:This episode is based on extensive research and storytelling to bring you an engaging and accurate exploration of Krampus. If you have questions or want to dive deeper, DM us on Instagram at @naturallyofftopic.

Step into the chilling and grotesque world of Albert Fish—also known as the Gray Man, the Brooklyn Vampire, and the Boogeyman. Born in 1870, Fish’s life was a descent into unfathomable darkness, marked by abuse, psychological trauma, and unspeakable acts. From his tortured childhood at St. John’s Orphanage to his horrifying crimes involving the abduction, torture, and murder of children like Grace Budd and Billy Gaffney, Fish’s depravity knew no bounds. In this episode, we explore the horrifying details of his life, including his self-mutilation, twisted religious delusions, and the infamous letters that revealed the depth of his monstrous actions. Using sources such as Radford University’s Psychology Department research and insights from Morbid and Necronomipod, we unravel the psyche of one of America’s most notorious serial killers. Join us for a harrowing journey into the mind of a man who blurred the lines between madness and pure evil. Warning: This episode contains graphic content that may be disturbing to some listeners. Sources: Radford University: Albert Fish - Spring 2008 Morbid: A True Crime Podcast Necronomipod Production Note Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes). We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

This week on Naturally Off Topic, we explore one of the most harrowing and unimaginable true crime cases in history: the kidnapping and 24-year imprisonment of Elisabeth Fritzl by her father, Josef Fritzl. In this episode, we delve into Josef Fritzl’s background, his calculated construction of a hidden cellar, and the chilling events that led to Elisabeth’s imprisonment. We also examine her life in captivity, her remarkable strength as a mother to seven children born under unthinkable circumstances, and the events that ultimately led to her rescue in 2008. With care and sensitivity, we’ll discuss the psychological impact of long-term captivity and the legal aftermath, including Fritzl’s trial and life sentence. Finally, we reflect on Elisabeth’s resilience and how she and her family have worked to rebuild their lives in the years since. Join us as we navigate this dark and deeply impactful case while honoring Elisabeth’s courage and endurance. References for the Website: Wikipedia: Fritzl Case The Guardian: A House of Horror CBS News: Fritzl Eligible for Parole All That’s Interesting: The Elisabeth Fritzl Story France 24: Fritzl’s Interview Through Lawyer 🎙️ New episodes drop Thursday at midnight. #NaturallyOffTopic #TrueCrime #ElisabethFritzl #DarkHistory #SurvivorStory

For our very first mini-episode as Naturally Off Topic, we’re taking you along on our recent road trip! 🚗🌄 From eerie roadside attractions to surprising discoveries, we’re spilling all the fun, weird, and mysterious things we’ve encountered so far. Join us for a casual chat full of laughs, chills, and a few conspiracy theories along the way! #NaturallyOffTopic #MiniEpisode #RoadTrip #SpookyAdventures #NewPodcast

n this final episode of our Ed & Lorraine Warren series, we’re diving deep into the bone-chilling stories behind Annabelle and The Conjuring. 🎥👻 Uncover the terrifying true events that inspired the films, and hear all about the Warrens’ encounters with these malevolent spirits. Is it all just legend, or is there something more sinister lurking in the shadows? Catch it at midnight on Thursday, 11/7! 🕛 #NaturallyOffTopic #Annabelle #TheConjuring #EdAndLorraine #TrueHauntings #HorrorPodcast #ParanormalMysteries #PodcastRelease

Step into the mysterious and often terrifying world of Ed and Lorraine Warren, the paranormal investigators behind some of the most infamous hauntings in modern history. In this episode, we explore their groundbreaking cases, including the eerie Annabelle doll, the haunted Conjuring House, and more. Were these encounters with the supernatural, or something else entirely? Join us as we uncover the lives, investigations, and lasting legacy of the Warrens. Tune in Thursday at midnight for a journey into the unknown! #EdAndLorraineWarren #Paranormal

In this episode, we dive deep into the legend of Bigfoot! 👣 From the first famous sighting in 1967 to the most recent in Oklahoma in 2024, we explore the many cases, eyewitness accounts, and ask the big question—could Bigfoot actually be real? 🤔 Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, join us as we break down the possibilities and explore one of the greatest mysteries of all time. Tune in Thursday at midnight! 🎧 #Podcast #Bigfoot #MythOrReality #BigfootSightings #LegendaryCreatures #ThursdayRelease