2023 Episodes
Episode 151: "A great gift for a less than loved one!"
December 27, 2023
For our last episode of the year we’ve got a cursed object and a haunted house. How classic! First up, Kala talks about The Anguished Man. This painting is located in the UK, and it’s more than just a creepy piece of art. Just ask it’s owner. If you find yourself with this painting in your home, you can expect to hear strange noises such as disembodied screaming, have doors and objects moving on their own, and even the see the strange shadowy figure of a man throughout the house. Luckily for you, the owner has no intention of selling, but that might not be so lucky for him. And Brittany talks about The Nicholson-Rand house in Indianapolis, IN. This gothic mansion is known to be haunted after being moved from its original location. For years, locals have claimed that a little girl’s spirit resides in the house after a tragic accident alongside other potential ghosts. And when you hear the history behind this building, you won’t be surprised that it’s otherworldly inhabitants have unfinished business. We finish up the episode with some spooky Reddit stories and a listener story! Make sure you check our social media for the images and video we talk about in this episode!
Happy New Years to you all! We can’t wait to spend another year with you, and be sure you join us next week for the beginning of True Crime January!Episode 150: " Sinister Klaas a.k.a Daddy December 😉"
December 20, 2023
Happy Holidays, y'all! We've got an episode to tell you all about the reason for the season... giant cats and magical men. First up, Kala talks about Jólakötturinn, or Yule Cat. This creepy kitty wanders towns in Iceland on Christmas Eve to find out which children have been doing their chores and which have not. You better hope you have a new pair of socks in those Christmas presents, or the Yule Cat may eat your dinner and then eat you! We promise it makes more sense once you hear the whole story. And Brittany talks all about Santa Claus. How did this jolly fellow get his rep? Has he always been the Coca-Cola version we know today? No... his origin story is interesting, and something you'll definitely want to hear for yourself. We finish up the episode with some great ways to keep track of Santa this year for you and your kiddos (if you have them.)Episode 149: “We are hooded and we’re on a mission"
December 13, 2023
We’ve got classic tales of a haunted museum, church, and cemetery this week! First up Kala tells us all about the Yunker Farm Children’s Museum in Fargo, ND. This 1800s farmhouse turned children’s educational experience is fun for the whole family, both alive and ghostly. The former missus of the house loves that her home is a fun place for kiddos, and she makes sure her warm and friendly presence is felt. And Brittany shares the story of the St. James Cemetery and Monk’s Castle in Lemont, IL. We expect to see spirits while wandering a cemetery, but how would you feel if you encountered a congregation of creepy monks dressed in black floating amongst the tombstones? Even when you expect to see a ghost, that’s got to be a little unnerving.Left of Skeptic THROWBACK
December 6, 2023
Hey y'all, we are taking a much-needed break this week, so we're doing a THROWBACK to one of our sexiest (what?) episodes... episode 69 - where Kala covers spectrophelia. We talk about love-making sessions with ghosts (what??) as well as the tragic tale of Jean Harlow. Straight from the vault, when we used to record remotely! Wow! Anyways... On to the episode!
Fair warning… this episode is NSFW. It is the Spooky Wednesday that Kala had been waiting for… Episode 69! Kala starts the episode with the concept of spectrophelia, where people just love to bang it out with ghosts. It’s much more common than you might think. And if it’s not believable, then the multiple sex puns Kala makes may be enough to convince you. If her story still leaves you questioning, you may want to find a ghost lover for yourself. And Brittany tells everyone the tragic tale of Jean Harlow. This celebrity’s life was filled with tragedy, and as a result, her former home may contain echoes after her death. And between the two stories this week we’re left with one common theme… “Because, men!”
Episode 148: "Not a Petti-bone in her body."
November 29, 2023
This week we've got classic stories in the form of a haunted hotel and a creepy college campus. First up, Kala talks about The Excelsior House Hotel in Jefferson, TX. Jefferson is a haunted little city, and this hotel is one of its hot spots. Allegedly, it's creepy enough to scare away one of the biggest names in Hollywood. Who will you encounter if you visit? The woman in black? The perfumed lady? The headless soldier? All three? If you do visit, do you think you can make it through the night? And Brittany tells us all the urban legends of Wells College in Aurora, NY. This campus is plagued by spirits of all kinds, and they all sound like they're straight out of a horror movie. From the roommate who never made it home from spring break to the student who stabs her teacher over stolen work, you'll find no shortage of stories to give you the shivers. Who can say no to a spooky week like this one?Episode 147: "A UFO is like a beautiful woman..."
November 22, 2023
Happy Spooky Wednesday folks! We’re hitting two different categories of the paranormal this week with a tale of an alien abduction and an old, haunted inn. First, Kala discusses the Travis Walton Incident. In the 70s, Walton went missing, and when he returned he said he had been taken by beings in a UFO. While he’s been able to make a lifelong career out of his story, we are not so easily convinced, and it sounds like many others aren’t as well. And Brittany tells us all about the Old Faithful Inn at Yellowstone National Park. There are multiple ghosts present in this still-operating Inn, but the most famous is a headless bride who met her fate in one of the rooms. It’s rumored that her story may have been fabricated in the 80s, but even if that’s the case, how do we explain away the other apparitions who haunt the halls?Episode 146: “…because crime”
November 15, 2023
This week we’ve got two locations that scream “Tale as old as time.” First up, we have Kala discussing the Ashmore Estates in Ashmore, IL. This old building that used to operate as an almshouse is active enough that nearly everyone who visits has an experience. So who will you meet? The man who was hit by a train? The child who just wants attention? Or the unnamed worker who has a problem with women in his boiler room? And Brittany tells us all about The Oxford Saloon in Snohomish, WA. Quite the party back in its day, this building got its start as a grocery store, but naturally moved on to a bar, casino, and brothel. With a location where violent outbursts and shady business practices are the norm, how can it not be haunted? Oh yeah… it’s definitely haunted.Episode 145: “It’s not Dracula, it’s just this a**hole”
September 20, 2023
Brittany is taking over this week with a story of the North Carolina house known as “Nannie”. Better known as the Poplar Hill Mansion, this historic home surprised one family when they moved in 2014. They definitely got more than they bargained for when they encountered the strange apparitions of women circling the property, unexplained noises, moving objects, and many other paranormal occurrences. When they dug into the history of the building and the land surrounding it, they found all the information needed to explain the haunted behavior… and they promptly moved out less than a year later. Check out the story and tell us, do you believe them? Do you think you’d have what it takes to stay at Nannie?Episode 144: "She hates her job and she hates you"
November 1, 2023
We’re back to our regularly scheduled programming with two haunted locations and a kooky case of psychokinesis. First up Kala talks about the Alliance Theater in Alliance, NE, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who died during a performance. Then she talks about the Mill Ruins Park in Minneapolis, MN. This site of the Great Mill Disaster may be a park now, but it seems like the ghosts don’t want us to forget this is the place where they met their end. And Brittany tells us all about the Rosenheim Poltergeist. Have you ever hated a job? Have you ever hated a job so much that it manifested itself as ghostly activity? No? Best make sure you’re going for a job you want or you may end up like the people in Brittany’s story this week.Episode 143: "It was just flesh eating bananas"
October 25, 2023
HAPPY HALLOWEEN, EVERYONE! It is our last week of Urban Legends October for 2023 and we are excited to bring you some truly classic urban legends this week! First up, Kala talks about the various types of Freaky Food stories we’ve been telling one another for decades. Tales of flesh-eating bananas, mutant chickens, and poisoned candy have been plaguing us for decades. Is there any truth behind these rumors, or have we been swallowing bullsh*t? And Brittany tells us all about Black Cats and how they became a symbol of Halloween. These beautiful animals have a long history of magic, some of it is good and some of it is bad. No matter what they say, we just know we love them. We finish up with a listener story of a pharmacy phantom. Cuddle up for our tales this week, and try not to get too scared… after all, it’s just a bunch of hocus pocus.Episode 142: "All that Small Shark Energy"
October 18, 2023
It's "travel week", where we pick another country and cover some of our favorite urban legends from that area! This year we’re traveling to Australia, where deadly creatures both real and legend exist in abundance. First, Kala talks about Drop Bears. This creature is one of the most well-known cryptids of the country. Even if almost everyone knows they’re a myth, it doesn’t stop the locals from using tales of this animal to scare the tourists. And if that’s not enough to scare the tourists, what about the sharks they can find everywhere… even in golf club ponds? And Brittany talks about her favorite kind of cryptids: water monsters! She tells us the tale of the Hawkesbury River Monster (whom we have lovingly named Hawksie). Is this water-dwelling giant a crocodile, a big-ass sea horse, a dinosaur? We don’t know for sure, but we do love to speculate.Episode 141: "It's those White Boy Gangs"
October 11, 2023
We are in the second week of Urban Legends October, and you know what that means! CREEPYPASTAS! That's right, this week we're covering those scary stories that have been copied and pasted around the internet so many times that people may not even know their origin and may not know whether or not they are true. First, Kala tells the story of "Abandoned by Disney" and then delves a bit into the history of the abandoned buildings and ghosts of The Most Magical Place on Earth. And Brittany shares the tale of "Jeff the Killer". It is an incredibly horrifying tale that involves 12-year-olds who have access to too many weapons, questionable placement of cleaning products, and Brittany's incredible Minnesota-mom accent. We know these urban legends are fiction, but that doesn't mean we don't get goosebumps when we hear them!Episode 140: "Did it for the lolz 👻"
October 4, 2023
We’re so excited to be starting out the 3rd annual Urban Legends October with the ever-amazing Adam Herman! We’re starting out the creepy month right with the super creepy game known as Three Kings. Calling it a game may be a stretch, it’s more of a ritual. Have you ever wanted your questions answered? Have you considered you may not like the answers given? If you can make it through the ritual, be prepared for unexpected results. Is this real, or just another creepypasta? Listen to people’s experiences and judge for yourself!EpISODe 139: "Bathsheda vs. Bethesda"
September 27, 2023
We hope you’re enjoying your fall as much as we are! We’ve got two haunted locations for you this evening, and both of them are waaaaaay old. Kala talks about The Farm on Round Top Road in Rhode Island, also known as The Conjuring House. This farmhouse inspired the movie The Conjuring, and the paranormal activity in the house is just as scary. It just may be one of the most haunted houses in America, especially if you believe the stories told by the Perron family who lived there for a decade in the 70s. And Brittany tells us all about the historic Old Bermuda Inn in Staten Island, NY. This beautiful building is haunted by a woman whose love never returned from the civil war. That love was strong enough to keep her around even after her death. She promised to leave a light on for him, and she’s keeping that promise to this day.Episode 138: "Stairs John, not Arsenic John."
September 20, 2023
This week, Kala continues the Barry Taff discussion with the investigation story of the Doris Bither Case, better known as The Entity haunting. A young woman with four small kids, Doris Bither already had to handle the stress of getting by as a single mom, but that stress was amplified by a near-constant haunting in her Culver City home. Was this a poltergeist or telekinesis brought on by pressures of life as a woman in the 70s? And Brittany discusses (at minute 46) Ye Olde Salutation Inn in Nottingham, UK. Known as The Sal, this building is beautiful, really old, and haunted. The caves beneath the Inn leave us with burning questions such as: Why are Roman soldiers running through a basement? Is the little girl friends with the pirate? And why do they put “Ye Olde” on so many things in the UK?Episode 137: "It spelled out J-E-F-F."
September 13, 2023
This week, Brittany is bringing you the spine-chilling conclusion to The San Pedro Haunting! It turns out poor Jackie, Jeff, and the Barrys didn't get enough haunting activity and had to up the ante with a terrifying Ouija board experience. And just when they thought (again) that the experience was over, the haunting followed the family some more. But before we dive into that terrifying tale, Kala brings some lighthearted fun with her Top 5 funniest cryptids. These are creatures throughout the world that are lesser known, less believable, but bring us quite a few laughs. Which of these animals would you rather run into in a dark alley? The flying monkey? Or maybe the 4-foot-tall frog? Even if we find these tales ridiculous now, it didn't stop the locals from spreading the rumors.Episode 136: "Poor Jeff…”
September 6, 2023
We’ve got one happy haunting for you this week, and one very unhappy haunting. First, Kala talks about The Grand in Oshkosh, WI, and by gosh, it’s just so wholesome. No tragic tales sparked the ghosties here. As far as we can tell, it’s just some theater nerds who stuck around because they loved that business we call show. A lifelong caretaker, enthusiastic audience members, and a mischievous pup are just some of the specters you may encounter at this theater! And Brittany tells us about the San Pedro haunting. This 80s occurrence is no joke, they’ve got photos and video to back it up. And the many experiences of one poor investigator named Jeff who just can’t seem to catch a break. Just when you think it might let up, things get more intense! But we’ll have to wait until next week to hear about that…Episode 135: "Hail a cab. Cannon a ferry."
August 30, 2023
This week we've got a petrifying prison and a paralyzing plantation. Kala discusses The Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise, ID. Built before Idaho was even a state, this facility saw executions, riots, and death due to the poor conditions in which the prisoners were kept. As a result, there are a multitude of spirits still stuck in the building where they were held. Tourists, employees, and paranormal investigators have reported many classic haunting occurrences such as orbs, strange noises, and heavy feelings. They've also reported some uncommon occurrences, such as spirits who like to act as guides at the prison-turned-museum where they reside. And Brittany talks about the Ferry Plantation in Virginia Beach, VA. The 11 ghosts who call this place home in the afterlife make themselves known to visitors in various ways, so which one would you like to meet? The soaking wet spirit of a woman accused of witchcraft? Or the two children who have been seen playing throughout the mansion on the property? (They'll greet you with a hug if you're lucky.) Or even the ghosts of sailors who were lost in a shipwreck at the ferry landing? You'll be hard-pressed to find a place on this property that doesn't have some specters hanging around.Episode 134: “He’s actually really dead”
August 23, 2023
This week we've got creepy stories galore! Kala talks about Gore Orphanage Road & Swift's Hallow in Vermillion, OH. Once Kala gets over her urge to sing Hawthorne Heights, she ends up telling us a surprisingly complicated tale where the line between truth and urban legend gets awfully blurry. The ruins of this orphanage that existed, but may not have existed as the stories said, is a popular location for "legend tripping". This leaves us wondering if the location is actually haunted, or just a place where bored teenagers go to get themselves all worked up, causing the legend to build even more over time. And Brittany tells us about Concord's Colonial Inn in Concord, MA. The hotel was built before the Revolutionary War began and is located close to the North Bridge. The famous bridge was where the “shot heard around the world” took place. And once Kala gets over her urge to make Hamilton references, Brittany tells us about the events that may make this Inn one of the most haunted places in Massachusetts.Episode 133: "Ouija Boards don't kill people."
August 16, 2023
First up this week, Kala has an important question: Alien or Cryptid? The Flatwoods Monster scared the butts off some West Virginia residents back in 1952. There are three different documented occurrences of this creature all within the same year, and it didn't make a great impression with its weird shaped head, glowing red eyes, metallic dress, and terrible smell. The whole "crashing down from the sky" thing didn't seem to help much either. While we may feel this is a pretty cut-and-dry alien story, there has been some debate on whether this creature is actually a cryptid. Either way, the story was intriguing enough at the time to be included in Project Blue Book. And last week Brittany told us all about this history of the Ouija board, so this week she's telling us stories of people's experiences with the ouija board. It would appear this Hasbro game has been blamed for many tragedies throughout the years. So is it the Ouija boards' fault, or are people just using this investigative tool as a scapegoat for their crimes? We end the episode with a listener story about the cutest little ghost ever!Episode 132: "Grandma or... demon?"
August 9, 2023
It’s Brittany’s birthday week! We’re celebrating with a creepy castle and the history of one of the most recognizable paranormal objects in the world. Kala tells us all about the Burg Wolfsegg in Wolfsegg, Germany. Gothic architecture, a mysterious hole, and a lady in white? What could be better than that? And Brittany talks about the history and creation of one of the best divination objects: the Ouija board! If you haven’t picked up on this from previous episodes, Kala is a big fan! Brittany is a bit more careful when it comes to communicating with the beyond. We end the episode with a listener story from two beautiful humans whose story takes us on a whirlwind of emotions.Episode 131: "A Wonky Donkey"
August 2, 2023
Kala is back from vacation just in time for a giggly little podcast. We start with Kala talking about the Eloise Psychiatric Hospital, or Eloise Asylum, in Westland, MI. This is one of the most haunted locations in Michigan. Are we surprised? Nope. We know how these old abandoned hospitals go. Multiple paranormal investigators have found EVPs, seen misty figures, and heard strange disembodied voices within its halls. And what a bonus for the public that this haunted former hospital may not give us a haunted hotel, haunted restaurant, and haunted bar! And then Brittany tells us all about the famous cryptid known as the Jersey Devil. There have been over 1,000 sightings of this creature, which makes it hard to deny its existence. Although, people seem to have a hard time getting on the same track with the descriptions. Does it look like a horse? A goat? A kangaroo? An ostrich? A wonky donkey? It would seem that the only way to know is to show up in New Jersey and find out for yourself. The appearances have been consistent over decades, so your chances are good! And we end the episode with a short and sweet listener story!Episode 130: "... A house named after a casket they found in the basement."
July 26, 2023
We've got a bloodcurdling bed & breakfast and an ill-fated island for you this week. First up, Kala talks about the Periwinkle Place Manor B&B in Chelsea, IA. Don't let this adorable name fool you, this building has some spirits lurking about. It was once a funeral home, and luckily it found an owner who embraces its morbid past. This lady is someone we'd love to have as a friend. We can do some murder mysteries, sing some karaoke, and hunt for some ghosts. Next, Brittany tells us about Daksa Island in Croatia. The tragedy behind this island isn't even something we want to type in the description, lest our account gets shadowbanned. Let's just say... if this island had closets, there would definitely be skeletons in them. We end with a listener request for the cursed object known as The Woman from Lemb. This statue has an incredible story behind it... too bad none of the story's facts can be verified. And, for a third week in a row we finish with a listener story! Gosh, y'all are just too good to us!Episode 129: "That was the plan the whole time, your Majesty. Totally."
July 19, 2023
It's Kala's birthday week! And she is celebrating by covering one of her favorite haunted U.S. locations: The Queen Mary! This ship has gone from a luxury liner to a wartime terrifier to a spooky hotel in less than 100 years! She has seen her fair share of tragedy, from fallen soldiers to crushed crewmembers, and she has the ghosts to prove it. Would you dare spend a vacation knowing you may be sharing your hotel room with a ghost who finds you to be a 'hassle'? And Brittany shares the story behind the famous "27 Club." Celebrities, especially musicians, live their lives in the spotlight, and sometimes their deaths receive the spotlight as well. With famous names like Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Brian Jones, and Jimi Hendrix on the list, it leaves the public wondering how they could be taken from the world at such a young age? Is it astrological? The work of demons? Or just coincidental? Whichever way, it is definitely sad. We end the episode with another listener story!
CW: Brittany's story does mention potentially triggering topics such as death as a result of drugs and suicide. If you would like to skip the details and jump forward to the discussion, head to 1:03. If you would like to skip any mention or discussion of these things at all, please jump to 1:11.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please reach out to the 24-7 Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK or visit 988lifeline.org.Episode 128: "Fine. No one's an abomination..."
July 12, 2023
This week we’ve got a classic haunting and a cursed soul for your enjoyment. Kala talks about Casa Loma in Toronto, Ontario. This mansion/castle was built in the early 1900s. The only tragedy that seems to have befallen this place is that it’s original owners couldn’t afford the upkeep, but that hasn’t prevented the place from being haunted. A woman in white, a handsy man in the tunnels, and a tape-stealing lady of the house are just some of the ghosts you may encounter here. And Brittany tells us the tale of Robert Johnson. He was a blues singer/songwriter who… well… sucked. Until he didn’t. He became an inspiration for many with his music, but where did this skill come from? Was it practice? Or was it a deal with the devil? We may never know.Episode 127: "hypoallergenic cat demon"
July 5, 2023
We've got a very special guest this week: Left of Skeptic Super Fan Gina! We start the episode with the third annual Kala's seeeester birthday request: haunted campsites. Kala talks about Lake Morena in San Diego, Big Moose Lake in the Adirondacks, Crystal Lake Campground in Los Angeles County, and Cameron Park in Waco. Each recreation area is haunted in different ways, but they all have tragic occurrences in their history that may be the cause of the hauntings. Pick your poison. Do you want the creepy, levitating figure of a man whose disembodied footsteps have been heard all around the property? Or do you want to experience phantom hands tugging at your clothes and hair? Or do you want to witness the misty figure of a devastated woman who was betrayed by an ex-lover? Your choice could determine the direction of your next road trip! And Brittany tells us all about Kasha House of Kaimuki, our first ever Hawaii location! Considered one of the most well known urban legends on the island, the house looks relatively normal, but looks can be deceiving. A Kasha, a man-eating ghost from Japanese folklore, is said to reside inside the home. Other theories behind the haunting include a ghoul who feeds on the dead, and a cat-like demon. All three versions have one thing in common: insatiable hunger for blood and corpses. So, that's pleasant. With such dark subject matter, do you think we've scared Gina away for good? Of course not! She's giving skeptic scale ratings right along with us!
Thank you so much for joining us, Gina! Make sure to check out her recommendation for another great podcast to check out: The Night Owl Podcast out of Austin, TX!
And Happy Birthday Seeeeeeeeeeester Sara! Have the best time camping! Let us know if you see any ghosts!
And thanks to all of you listeners! We love and appreciate you very much!Episode 126: "It's very unassuming, I assume."
June 28, 2023
This week we're heading to the east coast to talk about historic locations, famous authors, literary puns, and ghosts galore! Kala is covering the Westminster Hall & Burying Grounds in Baltimore, MD. This cemetery is known for being the final resting place of Edgar Allen Poe, along with many war veterans and politicians throughout history. It could have ended up like every other cemetery, except they decided to build a church right in the middle of it... right on top of graves! Combine that fact with grave robbing, cadaver stealing, and children playing with skulls, and you've got the perfect recipe for a haunting. Brittany discusses The House of Death in New York City, NY. This unassuming building looks like many others in the neighborhood, and it is famous for being the one-time home of Mark Twain. It would seem that is the only #funfact about that house, and everything else is an un-fun fact. Now converted into apartments, death seems to have occurred on every floor, and they've got the ghosts to prove it. From the bedrooms to the bathrooms to the stairwells, there's no escape. The question is: Even if you could afford to rent this Greenwich Village location, should you?Episode 125: "Capital H - Haunted"
June 21, 2023
We’ve got two locations this week to tingle your spines and bump your gooses! Kala starts it off with the Haunted Hill House in Mineral Wells, TX! This location is home to 9 different spirits, some that we know the names of, some that we don’t, and all of them vocal. If you choose to stay in this mansion overnight, be prepared to have motion-activated decorations go off out of nowhere, phantom hands touch your hair, and not-so-sweet nothings whispered in your ears. These ghosts are here, and they’re not afraid to let you know it. Brittany finished the episode with the story of Hotel del Coronado near San Diego, CA. This is the story of a woman who checked in, but never checked out. Kate Morgan was ghosted (haha… get it? Ghosted?!) by a lover, and she never recovered. Guests and employees have seen her wandering the property, destined to spend eternity alone. And that doesn’t even cover what happens in the gift shop…
We hope y’all are enjoying your summer. Thank you for listening! Please remember to check us out on social media, and rate and subscribe to our podcast on your favorite listening services!Episode 124: “It's a Hoedown Hodag”
June 14, 2023
We’re doing a call-back episode this week, calling back to last week and to two years ago. We start out with an explanation of those controversial ghost-hunting apps we discussed last week. Take this information and decide whether or not you trust them. It seems similar to the vinyl vs MP3 debate. Then Kala harkens back to episode 7 of the podcast with a deeper dive into the fearsome critter known as the Hodag. This cryptid is famous, especially in Rhinelander, WI. Is it a hoax, or just a misunderstood creature? And Brittany continues her story from last week about the Ohio University Athens campus, which is haunted AF. It seems you can’t escape a haunted hall here. From Culter to Jefferson to Crawford to the West Green, it seems like students have no escape from weird occurrences on campus. If you’re bothered by the sounds of marbles falling or mysterious voices or unexplained banging, you might want to pick another campus. It’s hard to focus on your studies when there are spirits about!Episode 123: "The Big Three: Alcohol Addiction, Menopause, and Tuberculosis."
June 7, 2023
This week we've got two haunted locations known by many different names. We start with Kala discussing "Old Main" Utica State Hospital in Utica, NY. This facility was considered groundbreaking in the mid-1800s as they attempted to move towards more compassionate care of patients (though, as we've learned, what they considered compassionate back then was still pretty barbaric.) It's known as one of the most haunted places in upstate New York, but because it is not open to the public, it's hard to verify with personal stories. Is this place really haunted? Or is it all rumors and local legends? And Brittany heads over to Ohio to discuss Ohio University in Athens. This large campus is full of buildings, one of the most famous being The Ridges. Full apparitions and phantom noises can be experienced within its walls, and like our first location, it seems to be the result of poor treatment of patients while the building operated as a care facility. But this isn't the only haunted building on the Ohio University campus.
Where else has the spooky vibes? You'll have to wait until next week to find out.Episode 122: "I'm glad that you got defrocked."
May 31, 2023
We’ve got a special guest for you this week! Kara Babcock of Prophecy Girls joins us this week as we tackle Canadian extraterrestrials and Russian douchebags disguised as monks. First up, Kala talks about the history of UFO sightings in Canada. With some well-known and still unexplained encounters, Canadians have quite a history with unidentified flying objects, and groups have been working for years to get to the bottom of it. Some people suspect aliens, some people see a government conspiracy, and others just see drones in the sky. It leads to an interesting conversion on UFOs pre and post-COVID. And Brittany tells us all about the notorious Rasputin. Despite being the inspiration for the absolute banger of a song in the animated movie Anastasia, this guy was terrible. He was a smelly, dirty-bearded, questionable guy. Was he magic, or was he just lucky with some of his guesses? AND WHY WON’T HE DIE? We don’t quite know.
Thank you so much to Kara Babcock for joining us this week!
If you're looking for a great podcast, Check out Prophecy Girls: a Buffy Rewatch Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Follow them on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram @prophecygirlspodcast and on Twitter @prophecy_girls!Episode 121: "This whole thing seems sketch city.”
May 24, 2023
It may be summertime out in the real world, but here in Left of Skeptic Land it is spooky season all year long! First up this week, Kala tells us about The Death Ship of Platte River, also known as The Wyoming Death Ship. This omen of doom has been seen multiple times along the Platte River between Torrington and Alcova, and allegedly every one who has spotted it has had a loved one pass away the very same day. Is this really a ghost ship, or a method of clairvoyant dreaming? It leads to quite the debate. And Brittany talks about the historic Greystone Mansion and Garden in Beverly Hills, CA. This building had a rough, sketchy start when less than a year after it was built, two people died within its walls. Was it part of a giant government cover-up? Was it two lovers who couldn't handle keeping their feelings a secret any longer? Was it a jealous wife caught in a love triangle? We'll never know, and because we'll never know, it seems the ghosts will never rest. This now public park and famous location for movie and television filming is haunted with phantom gunshots, strange noises, and shadowy figures. And as a bonus, it's also a location for Gilmore Girls, so you really can't go wrong.Episode 120: "A skeleton hand?! Okay... I get it. Sometimes you need the $12, but..."
May 17, 2023
This week, based on a listener suggestion by Kristy, Kala talks about The Hotel Congress in Tucson, AZ! This hotel has stuck to its historic roots by keeping improvements without losing decor, limiting technology, and embracing its ghosts. Whether it’s the spirits of those who worked there or long-gone guests, this place is hopping with paranormal activity! And though the seances may be staged, the personal stories from employees and tourists certainly are not. And Brittany talks about Haley Zega. This woman was lost on a hiking trip when she was 6 years old. Gone for more than two days, you might wonder how such a young child could survive on her own. She remembers help in the form of her imaginary friend, but was it just an imaginary friend or something more? Finally, we finish up with a listener story that is sure to keep you hugging your puppy close!Episode 119: "Bad doll! Bad!"
May 10, 2023
We recorded remotely this week as we are both down with the sickness, but we are not too disturbed to provide you with your weekly ghostly content. First, Kala talks about the infamous Annabelle doll. This cursed object has had enough notoriety to inspire a film series and had its story told all over the United States! Don't let its raggedy Anne looks fool you, there is something in this inanimate object, and it wants out. Luckily, supposedly the late Ed and Lorraine have locked it away, but will it stay that way forever? And Brittany talks about the Ross Castle in Ireland. This is the classic haunted story. It's got a war, a brutal Baron, star-crossed lovers, and sword-biting and fighting! How can you ask for more? As a result of this castle's long and storied history, it definitely has some spirits sticking around. You an experience orbs, disembodied voices, phantom footsteps, or any other number of haunting activity. Is it the lovely young girl searching for her long, lost love? Or is it the Black Baron, stalking the halls, upset that he can never find his daughter again? We may never find out for sure, but there is certainly something going on.Google Podcasts
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Episode 118: "We went a little off the rails..."
May 3, 2023
This week we recorded very early in preparation for our favorite music festival and the results are a little... chaotic? First up, Kala wanted to discuss something music related this week, so she's telling us all about the haunting of Meat Loaf. This beloved rock and roll star was known for his awesome music as well as roles in some amazing films. What we learn this week is that he also had a few encounters with ghosts in his life. From his brushes with the afterlife while recording the iconic Bat Out of Hell album all the way to his last investigation with the TAPS team before his passing, you're gonna love hearing all about his paranormal experiences. Next, Brittany talks about Dead Woman's Crossing in Weatherford, OK. While this location may not look creepy at first glance, it's got a pretty wild story that inspired the name. A tale of sadness and MERDY *ahem* excuse me... we mean MURDER. A story of a young mother who trusted the wrong people, and now it would seem that her spirit can not rest. Finally, we finish up with the tale of Phantom Canyon Road near Colorado Springs, CO. This scenic byway is known to many locals, but the origins behind its name remain a mystery. Is it named after the beautiful scenery? An escaped death row prisoner? Or just a plot by the tourism board?
If you're interested in checking out Duluth Homegrown Music Festival for yourself, or even volunteering to get a pass to the festival, visit https://duluthhomegrown.org/ for more details! We hope to see you out and around town enjoying music with us this week!Episode 117: "I want to go LARPing in Ohio!"
April 26, 2023
We've got some classic locations for you this week: haunted hotels and an abandoned castle (well, castle adjacent). First, Kala reflects on her recent trip to Las Vegas, NV by discussing Flamingo Las Vegas and Westgate Las Vegas. The Flamingo Hotel and Casino was the desert dream of famous gangster Bugsy Siegel. He was killed before he was able to see the success of the business, but he may be sticking around to oversee his business in the afterlife. But this haunting is mild compared to what happens just off the strip. The Westgate is haunted by none other than the king of rock & roll, Elvis Presley! And he's not the only spirit hanging around the property. Hotel rooms and elevators have their own spirits lingering, especially in the mirrors, the light fixtures, and the showers. You read that right... the showers. And no one wants to see a random hand while showering, right? Well... if you stay at the Westgate, that just might be your experience, and we've got the personal encounter stories to back that claim up. And Brittany tells us all about Squire's Castle in Willoughby Hills, OH. This building gives us gorgeous, renaissance fair vibes, but the lady of the house wasn't as big of a fan. She described the location as "exceedingly rustic" and we don't think she meant that in a good way. And we can't fully disagree... give me indoor plumbing, or give me death. And she may not have escaped this rustic home even in death, as there have been reports of apparitions, the eerie red glow of a lantern, disembodied screams, and orbs. But if you can handle the ghostly activity, it might make an excellent place for a LARPing campaign!Episode 116: "The fate of the un-haunted."
April 19, 2023
Kala is back from vacation and we are ready to rock your world with some overseas spooky stories! First up, Kala has a listener request for The Black Shuck of Europe! This dog-like apparition has been seen in many cultures, and for centuries it has been recognized as an omen of DOOM. Whether that doom be death, injury, or just bad luck seems to be up for interpretation. Whether you believe in the omen thing or not, with this many personal encounters it's hard to deny that these creatures really exist. And Brittany tells us about Q Station in Sydney, Australia. This gorgeous hotel and venue has a dark past full of disease and death. Its origins as a place for people to quarantine due to ship-borne diseases and pandemics throughout history has led to the location being a perfect dwelling place for spirits. Whether it is the past patients or the nurses that treated them, plenty of ghosts roam the area, and it makes sense with the hundreds of people that died there.Episode 115: "Was he hanging his spoils and then it spoiled?"
April 12, 2023
We've got haunted elevators, dancing spirits, and ghostly pets for you this week! First up, Kala discusses the Hotel Monte Vista in Flagstaff, AZ. This building, once a social hub for the city, is haunted by spirits of all kinds. There are ex-workers such as the phantom bell boy who wants to bring you room service, and the elevator man who doesn't realize people push their own buttons now. And old residents like a lady who just wants to enjoy her rocking chair, and the man who died leaving not only a decomposing body, but decomposing meat hanging from the chandeliers. You're thinking of that smell now, right? You're welcome. And Brittany talks about the adorably named Poogan's Porch in Charleston, SC. The restaurant is named after an adorable pup named Poogan, who served as the restaurant's official greeter for years, and even after his passing, you may still catch a glimpse of him running by or brushing against your leg to say hi. He's not the only ghost on the premises either! A woman named Zoe seems to be having the time of her afterlife hanging out with the restaurant's staff and guests. While there may be sad elements to this tale, we gotta love the positive energy these ghosts are emitting!Episode 114: "Something about soggy ghosts really upsets me."
April 5, 2023
We're joined by a very special guest this week, Kimberly Christine! She's a Reiki master, paranormal investigator, and resident Duluth Ghostess! She owns Duluth Ghost Tours, and if you're a local listener you simply have to check it out! We start with Kala telling us about Norwood in Marshfield, WI. Now the location of Marshfield Scrap, this land has a way dirtier history than just a junkyard. Although the current property owner spent three years dismantling, demolishing, and razing the old rotting buildings, many landmarks still exist. And as we know, especially with old and haunted medical facilities, the site's history still exists in its legends and lore. And Brittany tells us about Point Lookout Lighthouse in Scotland, MD. Point Lookout stands at the north entrance to the Potomac River. It is considered the oldest of its type in the US and is said to be one of the most haunted in America. There are many personal stories from visitors and residents that are sure to give you the creeps, especially if you, like Brittany, are not a fan of soggy ghosts. We wrap up the episode by learning a little more about Kim. What a life she has lived so far! And she's just getting started. We get to enjoy some stories of her time in LA and the spirits she encountered there, as well as some teasers for what we can expect to hear from her next time she visits!
This is an episode you do not want to miss!
www.cityofdarkangelstours.com - A link to Kim's Hollywood Tour website with the group of EVPs including Peg Entwistle on the blue box on the left of the homepage. She conducted tours there from 2014-2017.
www.kimberlychristine.com - A link to view Kim's portfolio as a MUFX & Costume designer as well as her shop of handmade items!
Episode 113: "Next time I need to do an exorcism, I guess I'm just gonna Google it."
March 29, 2023
This week we've got some very classic haunted scenarios to share with you. We start with a tale of possession. (If possessions and exorcisms are subjects that make you uncomfortable, skip ahead to 42:30)
First, Kala talks about the Ammons Haunting AKA The Demon House AKA The 200 Demon House in Gary, IN. When the Ammons family moved into their small, one-story rental, they had no idea what they were in for. Not long after moving in they experienced insect invasions, shadowy figures, mysterious sounds, and apparent possession of four different members of the family. After consulting with professionals ranging from doctors and police to clairvoyants and priests, the family finally escaped that home. They say they’ve found peace from the demons that plagued them, but some believe it's a big hoax. Ammons is sticking to her story. And with the details in this tale, we're inclined to believe her. And Brittany tells us all about the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, PA. It was once one of the most famous and impressive prisons in the world, but stands today as a collection of crumbling cell blocks and empty guard towers. After housing thousands upon thousands of people over its long history, including Al Capone, the walls echo with those whose souls may have stuck around long after death. In this building, you will find all the classic indicators of a haunted building, including but not limited to: shadowy figures, disembodied voices, and that lovely "something's wrong" feeling that we always hear so much about.
Episode 112: "This is what it REALLY means to be toxic."
March 22, 2023
We've got some real bloodcurdling stories for you today, both figuratively and literally. Well... kind of. We suppose no one's blood really curdled... but there is a lot of talk of blood. Kala starts us off with the tale of Pine Hill Cemetery in Hollis, NH. It's better known to locals as Blood Cemetery. That's not for the reason you may be thinking though, there are just a lot of residents of the graveyard with the last name Blood, including Able Blood, who can be seen wandering the gravestones after dark. He's not alone, either, because people have spotted his wife Betsy, a young boy, and other ghostly figures wandering the cemetery at night. Some have even caught these figures on camera. Is this a real haunting, or just bad flash photography? And Brittany shares the story of Gloria Ramirez, whom the media dubbed The Toxic Lady after her death in 1994. Several hospital workers became ill after exposure to her body and blood. She was suffering from cervical cancer at the time, and while the cause of her death is known, the cause of the illness suffered by those who treated her at the time of her passing is a mystery. Was it caused by something mystical? A strange reaction to medications and oxygen? Mass hysteria? We examine multiple angles, but it doesn't change the fact that to this day, the scientific community is still stumped.Episode 111: "Baggin’ on Bagans"
March 15, 2023
This week is like Sesame Street, full of storytelling and learning about numbers. Well, Sesame Street if the stories involved hauntings and mocking paranormal celebrities, and the numbers were considered unlucky. Kala is telling us about a haunted guitar that went for sale on Reverb 5 years ago. The seller spins a yarn so fantastical and verbose that it caught the eye of the one and only Zak Bagans. You can just imagine how well that went over with us. But is it just a tale or is the instrument actually haunted by the devil-worshiping teen who owned it? And Brittany tells us about the number 13 and why so many people think it’s unlucky. Is it biblical? Mythological? Real? We aren’t sure, but there are definitely a lot of bad things people associate with this number. So much so that they have a word for the fear of it. A word we can not pronounce. Buckle up for an episode full of big words, big laughs, and lots of questionable stories!Episode 110: "The most sense? THE MOST SENSE?!"
March 8, 2023
This week is full of amazing news, laughter, and as always, quality stories. Kala discusses the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia. Russia was rocked when this giant explosion killed reindeer, took out trees, and knocked people on their butts for hundreds of miles. What could have caused such a massive catastrophe? Was it a cosmic event, a death ray, or aliens. It has been 115 years and we’re still not sure, but we have theories. And Brittany talks about The Devil’s Tree in New Jersey. This location is a somber reminder of the racist history of the United States. And the memories held by this tree will not be forgotten… so much so that they live in the tree to this day. Is it a tale of parricide, genocide, or just plain mass murder? Whatever the reason, this tree is not going to let the rest of the world forget the horrors it has seen.Episode 109: "This witch would have done great on TikTok."
March 1, 2023
We went a bit off the rails this week with some serious stories and some not-so-serious side tangents. To start, Kala talks about the Governor Sprague Mansion in Rhode Island. The political intrigue is high, but not necessarily the reason for the haunting. Nope, you can blame that on a spurned butler and some people that decided it would be a good idea to make a homemade ouija board—no comic sans involved. And Brittany tells us the tale of Isobel Gowdie. This woman was a victim of the witch trials in 1600s Scotland. After listening to her multiple confessions, we are convinced she was born in the wrong time, because she could have made a killing as a YA author. Creative writing for the win. Fair warning, we never expected to talk about the devil’s “member” as much as we did. 📷 Thank you all for joining us this week. We hope you get as many laughs out of this as we did.Episode 108: "Haunted Dolls are basically like beta fish."
February 22, 2023
We've got a special treat for you this week with the return of Adam Herman! And he's not just here to comment this week... he's got stories of his own to tell! First up, Kala talks about Devil's Gulch in Garretson, SD. Legend says that long ago,this is where legendary Old West outlaw Jesse James made the leap of his life! And while we know that old western tales often lead to haunting, Jesse isn't the one to frequent this area... that's a more tragic story. Next, Adam shares two stories with us that both tie into his upcoming book, Villa Leila: A Muddy Tale of Love and Monsters. Both based in his hometown of Quincy, IL, he tells us about a haunted mansion and a ghost known to locals as the Levee Walker. Finally, Brittany tells us about the haunted doll known as Peggy. The spirit residing in this doll gives off such a strong energy that it has made people feel sick in its presence, or even just from looking at its photo! And this isn't just hearsay, the evidence piled up around this haunted object makes its legitimacy hard to deny.
If you want to order Villa Leila (or Adam's previous book Limbo), you can do so online at Zenith Bookstore!
Thank you for helping us support local businesses and local artists. We love and appreciate you all very much!Episode 107: "That's suspicious. That's weird."
February 15, 2023
This week we’ve got a roller coaster of feelings for you! First up, Kala talks about Grey Gardens in East Hampton, NY. A 1970s documentary brought this home into the spotlight when Big and Little Edie Beale lived there. Ghosts have roamed the building for decades including a woman who loved gardening on the grounds and an ex-lover who used to access the building ladder-style. And Brittany tells 5 tragic yet beautiful stories of people who tried to save loved ones from beyond the grave. They’re sure to leave you saying “aw” in a sad way and then “aw” in a happy way. And we end the episode with some suspicious UFO activity that’s been happening in the Northland for the last five years that might have you looking out your window at night wondering what is really out there.Episode 106: "A funeral home with its own ambulance service? Seems like a conflict of interest."
February 8, 2023
We're keeping it classic this week with two haunted locations. First up Kala talks about Bannack, MT and it's most haunted building, Hotel Meade. This little town boomed during the gold rush, but became a ghost town in the 1940s when the mining dried up. Spirits of those who have lived there are still seen throughout the town, but no where seems quite as haunted as the Hotel Meade. A girl who drowned in a nearby pond is seen on the second floor of the building where her mother worked, and because she can not leave, it seems like her mother can not leave either. And Brittany talks about the Jewett House in Mason, MI. Built in 1855, the home has a well-known history in Mason, including it's stint from the 1930s to 1990 as the Jewett Funeral Home. According to the many rumors, footsteps, unexplained whistling, and whispering are often heard late at night. Are these former residents? People who were prepared to be laid to rest at the home? Or the echo of grief that comes from so many people saying goodbye to their loved ones. We end the episode with a listener suggestion of the Mudhouse Mansion in Lancaster, OH! The building is no longer there, but locals still tell the tales of why this building may have been haunted.
Episode 105: “No. Pam didn’t work for OSHA.”
February 1, 2023
Wow! TWO WHOLE YEARS OF SPOOKY WEDNESDAYS! For our anniversary this week, we’ve got mysteries galore! First up Kala talks about The Alaska Triangle. Alaska is huge, and often considered one of the last great unknowns. Harsh elements and vast wilderness are bound to lead to some disasters, but nowhere more frequent than in this giant, obtuse triangle. Is it UFOs? Vortexes? Cryptids? Cases can be made for all. And Brittany talks about reincarnation. While many religions don’t believe in the phenomenon, Brittany has some hard evidence to prove them wrong. Why else would a toddler claim to have died as an adult in a house fire? Or a child claim to have 8 children scattered across Ireland? It’s hard to deny this information! Thank you for joining us for 2 years of #SpookyWednesdays. We love and appreciate you all!Episode 104: “I think something might have happened…”
January 25, 2023
This is the last week of 2023's True Crime January and we are finishing off with a bang! Or a chop... We're talking about the infamous Boise Murder House, better known to residents of Boise, Idaho as the Chop-Chop House. ***CONTENT WARNING*** This week's true crime is a bit more graphic than we've covered in the past. There is descriptions of the murder that might make some listeners uncomfortable. If you're not comfy listening to this, you can skip ahead to 26:05 for the TL;DR. This site of a gruesome murder in 1980s is now reported to be haunted by the ghost of the man who was murdered. Locals tell tales of blood running down walls and people being seen in the windows, but is it true or is it just a college town that likes to scare the freshman? And Kala finishes up TCJ by trying to stump Brittany with some interesting true crime facts. "Trying" being the key word.
Thank you for hanging out with us this True Crime January. We can't wait until next week when we celebrate 2 years of Spooky Wednesdays with y'all! We love you and appreciate you! OK, byeeeee!Episode 103: "It was VERY suspicious..."
January 18, 2023
Happy Spooky Wednesday! We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming to bring you a solo Brittany episode! This week Brittany talks about the Greenbrier Ghost from Greenbrier County, West Virginia. In a perfect combination of crime and paranormal, you'll learn all about how our leading lady Zona SOLVED HER OWN MURDER.
Where do you think this falls on the Skeptic Scale? Para or Normal?Episode 102: “Mary… we talked about this.”
January 11, 2023
For the second week of 2023’s True Crime January, we’re talking about Typhoid Mary. Mary Mallon was a dirty, dirty girl. Literally. She didn’t wash her hands. She is largely regarded as the first asymptotic person with typhoid in the USA. And as a result, people got sick. And when she was told she was making people sick, her response was to dip. After being chased around the New York area, she was found out and brought to North Brother Island... kicking and screaming. And that attitude may have kept her hanging around the island long after her passing. What do you think?
Episode 101: "There's a lot of good women with a lot of bad backs."
January 4, 2022
Happy Spooky Wednesday and a Happy New Year everyone! It's the first episode of the first month of the year, and you know what that means: TRUE CRIME JANUARY! That's right! Brittany's favorite month has come around again, and we're starting it out right. Lavinia Fisher is considered by many to be the first female serial killer in the United States. In the early 1800s, with the help of her husband John, Lavinia killed many men within the walls of the Six Mile Wayfarer House. When they were eventually caught, she didn't pretend to be sorry... she got mad. So mad that her ghost still hangs out around the land and building of The Old Jail, making sure that people know exactly how she feels.