Shows
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 256: The Butcer FamilyThis week, Ben reads 'The Butcher Family' by Night Spirit. It's a tale of woe, generational curses, and the best damned meat-cubes you ever did taste. Source: The Butcher Family | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2024-04-0949 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 256: The Butcer FamilyThis week, Ben reads 'The Butcher Family' by Night Spirit. It's a tale of woe, generational curses, and the best damned meat-cubes you ever did taste. Source: The Butcher Family | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2024-04-0949 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 254: A Friend in NeedOn the brink of starvation and ruin, a pastor struggles with the absolute abandonment of his congregation. But then a mysterious man-thing shows up and offers him a deal he can't refuse. This week, Ben reads the piously creepy A Friend in Need by Dylon Winfield.
2024-02-281h 14The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 254: A Friend in NeedOn the brink of starvation and ruin, a pastor struggles with the absolute abandonment of his congregation. But then a mysterious man-thing shows up and offers him a deal he can't refuse. This week, Ben reads the piously creepy A Friend in Need by Dylon Winfield.
2024-02-281h 14
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 252: My Wife Has Been Peeking at Me […]This week, Ben puts on his Brave Boy Pants and delves into Reddit/Nosleep to retrieve a story so freightful in it's freighteningness that it took us an extra 24 hours to post. Check out 'My Wife Has Been Peeking at Me From Around Corners and Behind Furniture. It's Gone from Weird to Terrifying' by Maliagirl1314. Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/nosleep/comments/sva7z6/my_wife_has_been_peeking_at_me_from_around/
2024-02-141h 19The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 252: My Wife Has Been Peeking at Me […]This week, Ben puts on his Brave Boy Pants and delves into Reddit/Nosleep to retrieve a story so freightful in it's freighteningness that it took us an extra 24 hours to post. Check out 'My Wife Has Been Peeking at Me From Around Corners and Behind Furniture. It's Gone from Weird to Terrifying' by Maliagirl1314. Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/nosleep/comments/sva7z6/my_wife_has_been_peeking_at_me_from_around/
2024-02-141h 19
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 250: The Curse of the NinthThis week, Ben brings a supernatural tale so super it's natural to tell. A hit musician, locked alone in a cabin deep in the woods. Desperate to write that one last perfect song. But at what cost? Check out The Curse of the Ninth by Trycksterr. Source: The Curse of the Ninth | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2024-01-2241 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 250: The Curse of the NinthThis week, Ben brings a supernatural tale so super it's natural to tell. A hit musician, locked alone in a cabin deep in the woods. Desperate to write that one last perfect song. But at what cost? Check out The Curse of the Ninth by Trycksterr. Source: The Curse of the Ninth | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2024-01-2241 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 248: Pasta Noir: Dames, Slugs, and the Hatchetman Part 2This week, Ben continues Pasta Noir: Dames, Slugs, and the Hatchetman, the saga started with last week's episode. In this installment, we learn more about the weirdly homophobic, yet subtuley homoerotic relationship between our hero and his young partner. Also there's a murder or something. Check it out Source: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/Pasta_Noir:_Dames,_Slugs_and_the_Hatchetman
2023-12-2758 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 248: Pasta Noir: Dames, Slugs, and the Hatchetman Part 2This week, Ben continues Pasta Noir: Dames, Slugs, and the Hatchetman, the saga started with last week's episode. In this installment, we learn more about the weirdly homophobic, yet subtuley homoerotic relationship between our hero and his young partner. Also there's a murder or something. Check it out Source: https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/Pasta_Noir:_Dames,_Slugs_and_the_Hatchetman
2023-12-2758 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 246: The Good Doctor Locklear by Madam MacabreThis week's episode brings you the story of a doctor who is willing to do anything it takes to do good. This, of course, means bad things. Ben read's The Good Doctor Locklear, written by Madam Macabre Source: Good Doctor Locklear | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-12-1355 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 246: The Good Doctor Locklear by Madam MacabreThis week's episode brings you the story of a doctor who is willing to do anything it takes to do good. This, of course, means bad things. Ben read's The Good Doctor Locklear, written by Madam Macabre Source: Good Doctor Locklear | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-12-1355 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 244: Mr Trenchfoot - A double doseThis week, Ben decorates our metaphorical refridgerator with MacaroniArtZombeh's Mr Trenchfoot, immediately followed by the thrilling prequel, In the Trenches. That's right, it's a double-dose of Trenchfoot. Trenchfeet? Unbutton your pants (so you have room for the extra serving, not for pervy reasons), sit down, and enjoy. Source: Mr. Trenchfoot | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom In the Trenches | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-11-2147 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 244: Mr Trenchfoot - A double doseThis week, Ben decorates our metaphorical refridgerator with MacaroniArtZombeh's Mr Trenchfoot, immediately followed by the thrilling prequel, In the Trenches. That's right, it's a double-dose of Trenchfoot. Trenchfeet? Unbutton your pants (so you have room for the extra serving, not for pervy reasons), sit down, and enjoy. Source: Mr. Trenchfoot | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom In the Trenches | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-11-2147 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 242: A Tear in the WallpaperTo celebrate Halloween, this week we're doing the thing we do about 75% of the time already! Ben reads the creepiest of pastas that's ever been written regarding wallpaper blemishes, with A Tear in the Wallpaper by Umbrello. Source: A Tear in the Wallpaper | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-10-3147 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 242: A Tear in the WallpaperTo celebrate Halloween, this week we're doing the thing we do about 75% of the time already! Ben reads the creepiest of pastas that's ever been written regarding wallpaper blemishes, with A Tear in the Wallpaper by Umbrello. Source: A Tear in the Wallpaper | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-10-3147 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 240: Eric Floc's Sad MenThis week, Ben pulls a random story out of his hat, and hits the creepypasta jackpot with the superbly written 'Eric Floc's Sad Men,' by CynicalSloth. And for once, we're not being sarcastic when we say this is truly a great work of fiction. Or non-fiction? Source: Eric Floc's Sad Men | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-10-0356 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 240: Eric Floc's Sad MenThis week, Ben pulls a random story out of his hat, and hits the creepypasta jackpot with the superbly written 'Eric Floc's Sad Men,' by CynicalSloth. And for once, we're not being sarcastic when we say this is truly a great work of fiction. Or non-fiction? Source: Eric Floc's Sad Men | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-10-0356 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 238: Honor, Duels, and Billiard BallsThis week, Ben takes a look at a handful of histories more unique duels. A decades-long feud between Gen. Francois Fournier and Pierre Dupont, the gentlewomanly disagreement between Lady Almeria and Mrs Elphinstone, and the pub-game gone bad between Melfant and Lenfant: These pairs took their arguments to the extreme (in oft hilarious ways.) Check it out. Source: 10 Most Bizarre Duels in History (historycollection.com)
2023-09-1936 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 238: Honor, Duels, and Billiard BallsThis week, Ben takes a look at a handful of histories more unique duels. A decades-long feud between Gen. Francois Fournier and Pierre Dupont, the gentlewomanly disagreement between Lady Almeria and Mrs Elphinstone, and the pub-game gone bad between Melfant and Lenfant: These pairs took their arguments to the extreme (in oft hilarious ways.) Check it out. Source: 10 Most Bizarre Duels in History (historycollection.com)
2023-09-1936 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 236: Suicidemouse.avi & Club 33: A Dark SecretThis week, Ben brings a pair of anonymously-written creepypasta featuring the dark secrets of Walt Disney and co. The first story is Suicidemouse.avi, the tale of lost animation clip that drives viewers to suicidal insanity. Then, there's the story of Club 33. Walt's biggest secret that also is only losely guarded but then viciously snuffed out. Sources: Suicidemouse.avi | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom Club 33: A Dark Secret | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-09-0558 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 236: Suicidemouse.avi & Club 33: A Dark SecretThis week, Ben brings a pair of anonymously-written creepypasta featuring the dark secrets of Walt Disney and co. The first story is Suicidemouse.avi, the tale of lost animation clip that drives viewers to suicidal insanity. Then, there's the story of Club 33. Walt's biggest secret that also is only losely guarded but then viciously snuffed out. Sources: Suicidemouse.avi | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom Club 33: A Dark Secret | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-09-0558 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 232: Velma BarfieldThis week, Ben takes a look at one of history's lesser-known extreme problem-solvers, Velma Barfield. When her first husband died tragically, it was a, well tragedy. But about the time her 6th lover died tragically, people started to suspect something more than bad luck. Sources: The Shocking Crimes Of Velma Barfield, The "Death Row Granny" (allthatsinteresting.com) Velma Barfield · Facing Controversy: Struggling with Capital Punishment in NC · UNC Libraries
2023-08-0847 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 232: Velma BarfieldThis week, Ben takes a look at one of history's lesser-known extreme problem-solvers, Velma Barfield. When her first husband died tragically, it was a, well tragedy. But about the time her 6th lover died tragically, people started to suspect something more than bad luck. Sources: The Shocking Crimes Of Velma Barfield, The "Death Row Granny" (allthatsinteresting.com) Velma Barfield · Facing Controversy: Struggling with Capital Punishment in NC · UNC Libraries
2023-08-0847 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 230: A Vampire, a Unipod, and a Really Big FootThis week Ben takes a look at three more creatures of Japanese mythology. This particular tour includes the not-so-uncommon tale of a seductive, vampric woman, a creature that seems too ridiculous to be threatening, and a really, really big foot. Check it out. Sources: Nikusui – Yokai.com Yamajijii – Yokai.com Ashiarai yashiki – Yokai.com
2023-07-2533 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 230: A Vampire, a Unipod, and a Really Big FootThis week Ben takes a look at three more creatures of Japanese mythology. This particular tour includes the not-so-uncommon tale of a seductive, vampric woman, a creature that seems too ridiculous to be threatening, and a really, really big foot. Check it out. Sources: Nikusui – Yokai.com Yamajijii – Yokai.com Ashiarai yashiki – Yokai.com
2023-07-2533 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 229: Captain Henry AveryCaptain Henry Avery was known by many names. Or, at least four names. Henry Avery, Henry Every, Long John, Long Ben. In fact, his list of aliases may be longer than his pirate career. Check out this week's show to hear Steve badly butcher the story of what may have been the most successful pirate to ever set sail. Sources: Henry Every - World History Encyclopedia Henry Every: The King of Pirates - YouTube Henry Every - Wikipedia
2023-07-1859 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 229: Captain Henry AveryCaptain Henry Avery was known by many names. Or, at least four names. Henry Avery, Henry Every, Long John, Long Ben. In fact, his list of aliases may be longer than his pirate career. Check out this week's show to hear Steve badly butcher the story of what may have been the most successful pirate to ever set sail. Sources: Henry Every - World History Encyclopedia Henry Every: The King of Pirates - YouTube Henry Every - Wikipedia
2023-07-1859 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 228: ElagabalusThis week, Ben talks about Elegabalus: the ancient Roman emperor who had very little interest in being an ancient Roman emperor. He did, however, have an interest in carrying out his role as a high priest, a job he enjoyed thanks to the flamboyant, lavish lifestyle and constant religious orgies. Sources: Elagabalus: the cross-dressing religious fanatic who became emperor of Rome - History Skills Elagabalus: The Hated Roman Emperor Who Was Killed And Mutilated! | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)
2023-07-1240 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 228: ElagabalusThis week, Ben talks about Elegabalus: the ancient Roman emperor who had very little interest in being an ancient Roman emperor. He did, however, have an interest in carrying out his role as a high priest, a job he enjoyed thanks to the flamboyant, lavish lifestyle and constant religious orgies. Sources: Elagabalus: the cross-dressing religious fanatic who became emperor of Rome - History Skills Elagabalus: The Hated Roman Emperor Who Was Killed And Mutilated! | Ancient Origins (ancient-origins.net)
2023-07-1240 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 226: The Rise and Fall of William FlyThis week, Ben talks about William Fly's breif tenure as the captian of a ship formerly known as the Elizabeth Snow. He may not have been the most qualified pirate to sale the Atlantic, but luckikly for William, pirates don't need resumés. Sources: William Fly: A Short-lived Pirate of the 1700s - Geri Walton Nix’s Mate: The Gibbeting Site of Pirate William Fly - Boston Pirate Trail - PocketSights The Pirate and the Gallows:An Atlantic Theater of Terror and Resistance | History Cooperative
2023-06-2734 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 226: The Rise and Fall of William FlyThis week, Ben talks about William Fly's breif tenure as the captian of a ship formerly known as the Elizabeth Snow. He may not have been the most qualified pirate to sale the Atlantic, but luckikly for William, pirates don't need resumés. Sources: William Fly: A Short-lived Pirate of the 1700s - Geri Walton Nix’s Mate: The Gibbeting Site of Pirate William Fly - Boston Pirate Trail - PocketSights The Pirate and the Gallows:An Atlantic Theater of Terror and Resistance | History Cooperative
2023-06-2734 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 224: John Keehan and the Poison Fists TechniqueThis week, Ben chronicles the life of the deadliest man alive: John Keehan, aka Count Dante. Founder of the Black Dragons school of karate, and inventor of the Poison Hands technique, Count Dante was a man perhaps two decades ahead of his time. Loved by some, hated by many, he was the perfect heel, and both the pride and shame of Chicago. Sources: The Life and Death of the Deadliest Man Alive - Chicago Reader Count Dante - Wikipedia
2023-06-1347 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 224: John Keehan and the Poison Fists TechniqueThis week, Ben chronicles the life of the deadliest man alive: John Keehan, aka Count Dante. Founder of the Black Dragons school of karate, and inventor of the Poison Hands technique, Count Dante was a man perhaps two decades ahead of his time. Loved by some, hated by many, he was the perfect heel, and both the pride and shame of Chicago. Sources: The Life and Death of the Deadliest Man Alive - Chicago Reader Count Dante - Wikipedia
2023-06-1347 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 220: Shuten Douji and CoThis week, Ben takes a gander-peek at one of Japanese mythology's hardest drinkin, root'n toot'n'est half-man half-demon's: Shuten Douji. Also included are Ibara Kidouji and the Junior-Douji, Kidomaru. Sources: yokai.com/shutendouji/ yokai.com/ibarakidouji/ yokai.com/kidoumaru/
2023-05-1647 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 220: Shuten Douji and CoThis week, Ben takes a gander-peek at one of Japanese mythology's hardest drinkin, root'n toot'n'est half-man half-demon's: Shuten Douji. Also included are Ibara Kidouji and the Junior-Douji, Kidomaru. Sources: yokai.com/shutendouji/ yokai.com/ibarakidouji/ yokai.com/kidoumaru/
2023-05-1647 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 218: Lake LanierThis week, Ben takes us on a trip to Georgia's infamous Lake Lanier. The man-made lake was built in 1956, but its waters couldn't cover up the area's tragic past. In fact, it only seems to have added to the aura of haunting sorrow, and otherworldly disquiet. Sources: Inside Lake Lanier’s Deaths And Why People Say It’s Haunted (allthatsinteresting.com)Inside Lake Lanier’s Deaths And Why People Say It’s Haunted (allthatsinteresting.com) Lake Lanier: A Georgia lake's deadly history has some people seeing ghosts | CNN
2023-05-0254 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 218: Lake LanierThis week, Ben takes us on a trip to Georgia's infamous Lake Lanier. The man-made lake was built in 1956, but its waters couldn't cover up the area's tragic past. In fact, it only seems to have added to the aura of haunting sorrow, and otherworldly disquiet. Sources: Inside Lake Lanier’s Deaths And Why People Say It’s Haunted (allthatsinteresting.com)Inside Lake Lanier’s Deaths And Why People Say It’s Haunted (allthatsinteresting.com) Lake Lanier: A Georgia lake's deadly history has some people seeing ghosts | CNN
2023-05-0254 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 216: Another Kind of EvilThis week, Ben takes a look at a creepypasta that almost reads as one of our true-crime episodes. A creepy cult? Kidnappings? Murderdeath? It has it all. Check out 'Another Kind of Evil' originally written by Killahawke1. Source: Another Kind of Evil | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-04-181h 02The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 216: Another Kind of EvilThis week, Ben takes a look at a creepypasta that almost reads as one of our true-crime episodes. A creepy cult? Kidnappings? Murderdeath? It has it all. Check out 'Another Kind of Evil' originally written by Killahawke1. Source: Another Kind of Evil | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-04-181h 02
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 214: And the Autumn Moon is BrightAfter a three-week hiatus, the show returns. Was it worth the wait? Don't asnwer that. This week, Ben reads the wolf-filled horror-thriller And the Autumn Moon is Bright by Shadowswimmer77. It's a howling good read, or some other, better pun. Source: And the Autumn Moon Is Bright | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-04-041h 00The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 214: And the Autumn Moon is BrightAfter a three-week hiatus, the show returns. Was it worth the wait? Don't asnwer that. This week, Ben reads the wolf-filled horror-thriller And the Autumn Moon is Bright by Shadowswimmer77. It's a howling good read, or some other, better pun. Source: And the Autumn Moon Is Bright | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-04-041h 00
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 212: Ben (A True Story)This week Ben reads a story about Ben called Ben (A True Story). It's a Benstraveganza! If you've ever thought about travelling the world and partying with your best boy pals, this is the creepypasta for you. Source: Ben (A True Story) | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-02-2838 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 212: Ben (A True Story)This week Ben reads a story about Ben called Ben (A True Story). It's a Benstraveganza! If you've ever thought about travelling the world and partying with your best boy pals, this is the creepypasta for you. Source: Ben (A True Story) | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-02-2838 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 210: Formula of the Worthless ShepherdThis week, Ben takes a look at a super convoluted ritual said to summon the worthless shepherd (which is apparently the devil.) If you've got a lot of time on your hands, you can try this at home and let us know how it went. But considering the process itself, please don't. Check out 'Formula of the Worthless Shepherd' Source: Formula of the Worthless Shepherd | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-02-141h 03The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 210: Formula of the Worthless ShepherdThis week, Ben takes a look at a super convoluted ritual said to summon the worthless shepherd (which is apparently the devil.) If you've got a lot of time on your hands, you can try this at home and let us know how it went. But considering the process itself, please don't. Check out 'Formula of the Worthless Shepherd' Source: Formula of the Worthless Shepherd | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-02-141h 03
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 206: On the Mystery of Human PerceptionThis week, Ben reads a creepypasta that was probably written by Barack Obama, but not the one you're thinking of. It's the anonymously-penned 'On the Mystery of Human Perception.' Get ready for some totally ethical science, y'all! Source: On the Mystery of Human Perception | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-01-1047 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 206: On the Mystery of Human PerceptionThis week, Ben reads a creepypasta that was probably written by Barack Obama, but not the one you're thinking of. It's the anonymously-penned 'On the Mystery of Human Perception.' Get ready for some totally ethical science, y'all! Source: On the Mystery of Human Perception | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2023-01-1047 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 204: Horror PunkThis week, Ben reads a story about what happens when you get a little too into horror punk, which is apparently a genre. Toxic fandom meets good old-fashioned gumption in the anonymousely written and aptly named Horror Punk. Source: Horror Punk | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-12-2752 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 204: Horror PunkThis week, Ben reads a story about what happens when you get a little too into horror punk, which is apparently a genre. Toxic fandom meets good old-fashioned gumption in the anonymousely written and aptly named Horror Punk. Source: Horror Punk | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-12-2752 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 202: Donald NielsonThis week, Ben takes a lil' gander at the whitest Black Panther: Donald Nielson. The man earned his nickname because he was good at crime, but mostly, because he wore a lot of black. But after a robbery went a little off the rails, his whole gameplan changed for the worse. Or, if you host a podcast about terrible people doing terrible things, for he changed for the better. Sources: Donald Neilson Biography, Life, Interesting Facts (sunsigns.org) The Black Panther — Robber, Kidnapper and Serial Killer | by Sam H Arnold | CrimeBeat | Medium
2022-12-1343 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 202: Donald NielsonThis week, Ben takes a lil' gander at the whitest Black Panther: Donald Nielson. The man earned his nickname because he was good at crime, but mostly, because he wore a lot of black. But after a robbery went a little off the rails, his whole gameplan changed for the worse. Or, if you host a podcast about terrible people doing terrible things, for he changed for the better. Sources: Donald Neilson Biography, Life, Interesting Facts (sunsigns.org) The Black Panther — Robber, Kidnapper and Serial Killer | by Sam H Arnold | CrimeBeat | Medium
2022-12-1343 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 200: The Long List & Disabled (Two'fer)In celebration of the 200th Nonessential episode—and also as a result of the first story being shorter than anticipated, but shut up—Ben reads two different creepypastas this week! First up is HumboldtLycanthrope's The Long List, which is a surprisingly good story about a detective haunted by a victim's trauma and her need for revenge. Or maybe he's haunted by himself? Then there's the anonymously-written Disabled, a Pokémon creepypasta about wiggly-tough puffs or something. Check it out! Sources: Disabled | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom The Long List | Creepypast...
2022-11-1558 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 200: The Long List & Disabled (Two'fer)In celebration of the 200th Nonessential episode—and also as a result of the first story being shorter than anticipated, but shut up—Ben reads two different creepypastas this week! First up is HumboldtLycanthrope's The Long List, which is a surprisingly good story about a detective haunted by a victim's trauma and her need for revenge. Or maybe he's haunted by himself? Then there's the anonymously-written Disabled, a Pokémon creepypasta about wiggly-tough puffs or something. Check it out! Sources: Disabled | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom The Long List | Creepypast...
2022-11-1558 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 198: Joel RifkinThis week, Ben takes a look at serial killer Joel Rifkin. His straight-forward approach to getting away with murder might not be the most unique, or complex, but it was pretty effective. That is, until he made that one classic blunder that brought it all to an unfortunately over-due end.
2022-11-0145 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 198: Joel RifkinThis week, Ben takes a look at serial killer Joel Rifkin. His straight-forward approach to getting away with murder might not be the most unique, or complex, but it was pretty effective. That is, until he made that one classic blunder that brought it all to an unfortunately over-due end.
2022-11-0145 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 196: DoppeldaterThis week, Ben checks out Empyrealinvective's Doppledater. When our lovelorne protagonist stumbles across a secretive ritual that promises to bring him the romantic relationship he's always desired, he figures he might as well give it a try. But if you've ever read horror of any kind, you won't be suprised to learn he might have ended up with a bit more than he had bargained for. Source: Doppeldater | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-10-181h 00The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 196: DoppeldaterThis week, Ben checks out Empyrealinvective's Doppledater. When our lovelorne protagonist stumbles across a secretive ritual that promises to bring him the romantic relationship he's always desired, he figures he might as well give it a try. But if you've ever read horror of any kind, you won't be suprised to learn he might have ended up with a bit more than he had bargained for. Source: Doppeldater | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-10-181h 00
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 194: An Occurrence at Owl Creek BridgeThis week, the Nonessential crew continues it's now two-week run of Ambrose Bierce content with Ben's reading of An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge. This was one of Ben's favorite Bierce pieces growing up, but does it hold up lo' these couple of years later? Probably.
2022-10-0452 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 194: An Occurrence at Owl Creek BridgeThis week, the Nonessential crew continues it's now two-week run of Ambrose Bierce content with Ben's reading of An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge. This was one of Ben's favorite Bierce pieces growing up, but does it hold up lo' these couple of years later? Probably.
2022-10-0452 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 192: Jack the Ripper GameThis week, Ben brings a story of intrique, murder, and a video game that takes serial disembowelment and turns it into something bad. It's Jack the Ripper Game by Illyrias Acolyte, and the moral of the story is to stop replaying old games, and work on that back-log, buddy! Source: Jack the Ripper Game | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-09-131h 07The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 192: Jack the Ripper GameThis week, Ben brings a story of intrique, murder, and a video game that takes serial disembowelment and turns it into something bad. It's Jack the Ripper Game by Illyrias Acolyte, and the moral of the story is to stop replaying old games, and work on that back-log, buddy! Source: Jack the Ripper Game | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-09-131h 07
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 190: We Are Your Worst NightmaresThe world's worst security guarde encounters a paranormal horror of apocalitic proportions in this week's story, 'We Are Your Worst Nightmares.' Read by a sleep-deprived Ben, who really pulled it off quite well. source: We Are Your Worst Nightmares | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-08-3038 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 190: We Are Your Worst NightmaresThe world's worst security guarde encounters a paranormal horror of apocalitic proportions in this week's story, 'We Are Your Worst Nightmares.' Read by a sleep-deprived Ben, who really pulled it off quite well. source: We Are Your Worst Nightmares | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-08-3038 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 184: My Pal ScoutWhat happens when the perfect gift turns out to be a stuffed dog that is both sentient and possessive? Listen to Ben read the anonymously-written My Pal Scout and find out! Source: My Pal Scout | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-07-1251 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 184: My Pal ScoutWhat happens when the perfect gift turns out to be a stuffed dog that is both sentient and possessive? Listen to Ben read the anonymously-written My Pal Scout and find out! Source: My Pal Scout | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-07-1251 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 182: Another Use for a Bouncy CastleHave you ever wanted to go back to your childhood with a bunch of stipulations regarding where you can go and what you can do? Well you're in luck! This week, Ben will outline the very specific steps in order to time travel using nothing more than a bouncey castle or something else. Check out Orangutango's Another Use for a Bouncy Castle.
2022-06-281h 03The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 182: Another Use for a Bouncy CastleHave you ever wanted to go back to your childhood with a bunch of stipulations regarding where you can go and what you can do? Well you're in luck! This week, Ben will outline the very specific steps in order to time travel using nothing more than a bouncey castle or something else. Check out Orangutango's Another Use for a Bouncy Castle.
2022-06-281h 03
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 179: Too Much TacoThis week, Ben and Steve literally figuratively shoot the shit. It's a weird, wonderful, rambling episode about nothing. And poop.
2022-06-0658 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 179: Too Much TacoThis week, Ben and Steve literally figuratively shoot the shit. It's a weird, wonderful, rambling episode about nothing. And poop.
2022-06-0658 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 177: Alfredo GalanThis week, Ben discusses a police investigation into a killer that was so inept and inefectual, that even the murderer himself couldn't take any more of it. Meet Alfredo Galan. Sources: Trish & Wendy. Alfredo Galan - The Playing Card Killer. Criminal Discourse Podcast. January 27, 2020. Learn The Truth About Alfredo Galan The Playing Card Killer - CDP (criminaldiscoursepodcast.com) Alfredo Galan. Murderpedia. Last accessed on May 23, 2022. Alfredo Galán | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers
2022-05-241h 12The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 177: Alfredo GalanThis week, Ben discusses a police investigation into a killer that was so inept and inefectual, that even the murderer himself couldn't take any more of it. Meet Alfredo Galan. Sources: Trish & Wendy. Alfredo Galan - The Playing Card Killer. Criminal Discourse Podcast. January 27, 2020. Learn The Truth About Alfredo Galan The Playing Card Killer - CDP (criminaldiscoursepodcast.com) Alfredo Galan. Murderpedia. Last accessed on May 23, 2022. Alfredo Galán | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers
2022-05-241h 12
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 175: Blood ArtistSteve and Ben are back this week, with a creepy pasta that dabbles in experimental art ... and murder! Check out RedNovaTyrant's 'Blood Artist.' source: Blood Artist | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-05-1052 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 175: Blood ArtistSteve and Ben are back this week, with a creepy pasta that dabbles in experimental art ... and murder! Check out RedNovaTyrant's 'Blood Artist.' source: Blood Artist | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-05-1052 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 173: aka Humbug BillyIf you were a good girl or boy in 1858, maybe your dad would spend a nickel to buy you the hottest, most desirable candy of the day: Hard peppermint "humbugs." The candy that featured plaster dust, and maybe poison. Sources: Elliott, Jenny. How Tainted Treats Led to a Halloween Tragedy in 1858. Atlas Obscura. How Tainted Treats Led to a Halloween Tragedy in 1858 - Gastro Obscura (atlasobscura.com) Johnson, Ben. Dying for a Humbug, the Bradford Sweets Poisoning of 1858. Historic UK. Dying for a Humbug, the Bradford Sweets Poisoning 1858 (historic-uk.com) Paul, Davi...
2022-04-1234 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 173: aka Humbug BillyIf you were a good girl or boy in 1858, maybe your dad would spend a nickel to buy you the hottest, most desirable candy of the day: Hard peppermint "humbugs." The candy that featured plaster dust, and maybe poison. Sources: Elliott, Jenny. How Tainted Treats Led to a Halloween Tragedy in 1858. Atlas Obscura. How Tainted Treats Led to a Halloween Tragedy in 1858 - Gastro Obscura (atlasobscura.com) Johnson, Ben. Dying for a Humbug, the Bradford Sweets Poisoning of 1858. Historic UK. Dying for a Humbug, the Bradford Sweets Poisoning 1858 (historic-uk.com) Paul, Davi...
2022-04-1234 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 171: Wet StrawWet Straw is the story of a man who just wants to live a low-key life of enjoyment and entertainment. But each night when he goes to bed, his past comes back to haunt him. Then the story ends and Ben pulls the 'ol switcheroo. Check it out. Source: Matheson, Richard. "Wet Straw" from Nightmare at 20,000 Feet: Horror Stories by Richard Matheson.
2022-03-2946 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 171: Wet StrawWet Straw is the story of a man who just wants to live a low-key life of enjoyment and entertainment. But each night when he goes to bed, his past comes back to haunt him. Then the story ends and Ben pulls the 'ol switcheroo. Check it out. Source: Matheson, Richard. "Wet Straw" from Nightmare at 20,000 Feet: Horror Stories by Richard Matheson.
2022-03-2946 min
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 169: I Have Thin WallsThis week, Ben reads a creepypasta about a guy with some overly loud neighbors. Or so he thinks. It's Alexisaac's 'I Have Thin Walls.' source: I Have Thin Walls | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-03-0929 minThe Nonessential PodcastEpisode 169: I Have Thin WallsThis week, Ben reads a creepypasta about a guy with some overly loud neighbors. Or so he thinks. It's Alexisaac's 'I Have Thin Walls.' source: I Have Thin Walls | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2022-03-0929 min
The Nonessential PodcastBen's Story For Episode 151This week, Ben brings an original, if untitled, creepypasta to the show, and Steve struggles to make fun of it. Could it actually be good, or could Steve have just been distracted by Thursday Night Football? Technically both can be true. A text version of the story can be found here: https://thenonessential.libsyn.com/episode-151-story-text
2021-10-2644 min
The Nonessential PodcastI Found a Dark and Lonely RoadIn this episode, Steve reads Shadowswimmer77's I Found a Dark and Lonely Road. It's a tale of roads, driving on them, and what you might find when you stop. And if the story isn't good enough for you, stick around to watch Ben slowly lose his mind. Source: Shadowswimmer77. I Found a Dark and Lonely Road. Creepypasta Wiki. Last accessed on June 8, 2021. I Found a Dark and Lonely Road | Creepypasta Wiki | Fandom
2021-06-081h 09
The Nonessential PodcastCreepy Places to Stroll in the DarkThis week, Ben and Steve both bring spooky tales of haunted places. That's right; we actually managed to get it together enough to have a themed show in time for a holiday! Ben looks at a number of locations around his town of Spokane, Washington. Steve tells the ghastly story of the Sloss Furnace. Sources: Brand, Nathan. Haunted Hahn House: Frightening Fact vs Fiction. KREM2. October 30, 2018. https://www.krem.com/article/features/haunted-hahn-house/293-609721186 Most Haunted Places in Spokane, Washington. Haunted Rooms America. Last accessed on 10/29/2020. https://www.hauntedrooms.com/washington/spokane/haunted-places...
2020-10-291h 13
The Nonessential PodcastEvolution of a YokaiThis week, Ben returns to his happy-place with another set of Yokai—mythical creatures of Japanese origin. But much like Ben's love for the genre has changed over time, we discover some of these Yokai will do the same. Check it out. Source: Meyer, Matthew. Yokai.com. Last accessed on September 29, 2020: http://yokai.com/nobusuma/ http://yokai.com/momonjii/ http://yokai.com/yamachichi/ http://yokai.com/kurobouzu/ http://yokai.com/himamushinyuudou/ http://yokai.com/mikoshinyuudou/
2020-09-2933 min
The Nonessential PodcastWord HistorySteve tests his ability to write convincing B.S. by putting Ben on the spot as he tries to guess the true origin of ten common American idioms. Sources: Laliberte, Marissa, Alison Caporimo, Jacopo Delia Quercia. The Origins of 14 Commonly Used Phrases. Reader’s Digest. Last accessed on March 19, 2020. https://www.rd.com/culture/idiom-origins/ Okrent, Arika. The Curious Origins of 16 Common Phrases. Mental Floss. June 20, 2018. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/548109/origins-of-common-phrases
2020-03-2450 min
The Nonessential PodcastBen Matlock and Steve GibsonIn the front half of this week's show, we explore Vermont's "mysterious" Bennington Triangle, and attempt to get to the bottom of the area's mysterious disappearances. Our favorite theory is a man-eating rock. Seriously. In the back half, we explore the tale of the Mary Celeste; a ship found adrift between the Azores and Portugal. There are many theories surrounding the fate of her crew. None of them are good ones. Sources: The Bennington Triangle and the Man-eating Stone of Glastonbury Mountain. Mysterious Universe. May 2, 2014. https://mysteriousuniverse.org/2014/05/the-bennington-triangle-and-the-man-eating-stone-of-glastonbury-mountain/ Clendenin, Maggie. Num...
2019-05-141h 08
The Nonessential PodcastQuestionable PastaOn the front half, Ben read's OC's creepypasta, My Memories. It's a tale of murder, questionable pasta, and a very urgent job interview. On the back half, Steve takes a look at the very sad, and very weird circumstances surrounding the murder of Girly Chew Hossencofft. Sources: OC. My Memories. Creepypasta Wiki. https://creepypasta.fandom.com/wiki/My_Memories Murder of Girly Chew Hossencofft. Wikipedia. Last accessed on April 24, 2018. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Girly_Chew_Hossencofft Smith, Benjamin. The Disappearance of Girly Chew Hossencofft: A Con...
2019-04-301h 12
The Nonessential PodcastA Cross, A Cult, and AsylumOn the first half, Ben takes a look at the legendary Kay's Cross; a ghostly place tied to a cult and their shockingly far-out leader. Most cults have a bit of an odd history, and this one is really dynamite. On the second half, Steve discusses another well known haunt: The Rolling Hills Asylum. Started as a county poorhouse in the 1820's, the long abandoned facility has a large cast of well-known spirits. Sources: Conklin, Susan. Genesee County Home/Poorhouse. Genesee County, NY. Last accessed on April 11, 2019. http://co.genesee.ny.us/departments...
2019-04-231h 01
The Nonessential PodcastGone With a TraceIn the midst of WWII, the United States Navy was working on a number of top-secret projects. Was a disappearing, teleporting battleship one of them? Guest Kelly Bristol explores the weird, enduring legend known as the Philadelphia Experiment. Jesse James was, perhaps, the most well known of the Old West outlaws. But after his death, a surprising number of people popped up claiming to be the real gunslinger. Ben tells the weird history of Jesse James impostors. Sources: Carlos Miguel Allende Or Carl Meredith Allen Or... The Philadelphia Experiment From A-Z. Last accessed o...
2019-02-261h 12
The Nonessential PodcastThe Very Hungry ManThis week, Ben tells the story of Johnny Ringo; and Old West outlaw who was as likely to sling lines from Shakespeare as he was his guns. But that's not to say he was a saint. Then Steve shares the very odd—and very gross—story of Terrare, the French man who could, and would, eat anything he could sink his teeth into. Sources: Gunfighter John Ringo Found Dead. History. November 16, 2009. https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/gunfighter-john-ringo-found-dead Leschhorn, Emily. 15 Creepy Unsolved Mysteries That Will Have You Shook. The Things. May 6, 2017. https://www...
2019-02-051h 15
The Nonessential PodcastUnsinkableBen digs up another batch of Japanese myths. From serpent ex-girlfriends to a fifteen-eyed, 50-foot tall demon that proves to be unexpectedly easy to defeat, these myths are as bizarre as they are strange. And yes, we know those synonyms. Steve takes a look at the long, wet career of the unemployably attractive (apparently?) Violet Jessop. You'd think working aboard the Titanic when it struck the iceberg would be the someone's worst day on the job, but for Violet, it was just another day at the office. Sources: DeRosa, Victoria, 10 Horrifying Demons and...
2018-09-1159 min
The Nonessential PodcastFelons and MelonsOhio has a lot of problems, and apparently for the people of Lake County, melon heads are one of them. Ben explores the bizarre legend behind Dr. Crowe and his big-headed buddies. Steve takes a look at Troy Leon Gregg, a hitchhiking killer who escapes his death sentence… technically. It's a not-so-heartwarming story that reminds us that karma is as karma does. Sources: Murderpedia, 'Troy Leon Gregg': http://murderpedia.org/male.G/g/gregg-troy-leon.htm Wikipedia, 'Troy Leon Gregg': https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troy_Leon_Gregg#cite_note-Quest-5 Wei...
2018-09-041h 07
The Nonessential PodcastBath TimeThis week, Ben takes a look at a serial killer John George Haigh, who was much more confident in his modus operandi than he should have been. Steve has the story of the Somerton, aka the Tamam Shud case. When a body is found on Somerton beach, the only thing a mysterious as his death is his identity. Sources: Pelling, Nick, Tamam Shud / Somerton Man, Cypher Mysteries: http://ciphermysteries.com/tamam-shud-somerton-man Serena, Katie, The Story of the Acid Bath Killer is Just as Gruesome as His Nickname Suggests, AllThatsInteresting.com, Nov 28, 2017...
2018-08-281h 01
The Nonessential Podcast138 and 4 or MoreWhen the working day is done, girls just wanna have… murder? This week, the Nonessential Podcast talks lady-killers. Steve discusses Martha Marek, a poor orphan from early 1900's Vienna who managed to find herself the sudden heiress to a large fortune, but once she tasted the good life, she was willing to do anything to keep it. But first, Ben tells the story of Russian countess Darya Saltykova. Darya was a woman of deep faith and compassion, until she really, really wasn't. They say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, and they probably say that sp...
2018-08-0755 min
The Nonessential PodcastHot AirThis week, Ben takes a look at Yukio Mishima, a talented author and actor whose dreams were to become a martyr. He may have skipped a few steps, but—well, you'll just have to listen to find out how that went for him. Steve discusses American inventor John Keely, who managed to harness the newly theorized etheric forces (and later, vibratory symphony) to create a clean, water-fueled engine that would revolutionize the world. At least, that's what he led his investors to think. Sources: Hook, Donald D. “Chapter 17 Mishima.” Madmen of History, Dorset Press...
2018-07-241h 22
The Nonessential PodcastA Bad KidWe try something new this week, as Ben performs a reading of Dkingsbury's #creepypasta masterpiece, 'Ronald McDonald House.' I'm lovin' it, and we hope you do too. Steve takes a look at the "doctor" John R Brinkley, whose contribution to the world of medicine involved some very sensitive goat parts. He built an empire, but as they say, pride comes before the fall. Sources: 'Ronald McDonald House', Creepypasta Wiki, (Dkingsbury), http://creepypasta.wikia.com/wiki/Ronald_McDonald_House ‘John R Brinkley’, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_R._Brinkley
2018-07-171h 21
The Nonessential PodcastGuilty Until Confessed GuiltyThis week, Ben delves into the weird history of the werewolf myths. From magic moonbeams and a serial killing hermit, to a wild game recipe that would make even Guy Fieri blush, the legend of the Lycan is a weird one. Next, what happens when a wanna-be gangster extorts an average Joe into killing a problematic business associate? It doesn't end well. But hiring more amateur hit-men can only make the situation worse. This week, Steve proves that justice is blind... and stupid. Sources: "Werewolves: Lore, Legend & Lycanthropy", Live Science, (Radford, Benjamin) https...
2018-07-101h 09
The Nonessential PodcastCan Always Get WorseOn the Nonessential Podcast this week, Ben's topic sucks!... your blood. We explore the origins and particularly unparticulars of vampires. Next, Steve recounts the harrowing Antarctic expedition lead by Douglas Mawson. The scientific endeavor may not have succeeded as planned, but did prove that just when you think you're at rock bottom, they can always get worse. Suit up, strap in, and hold on: It's a wild one. Sources: Vampires: Fact, Fiction, and Folklore, Live Science (Radford, Benjamin) https://www.livescience.com/24374-vampires-real-history.html Vampires, Zombies & Werewolves, Oh My...
2018-07-031h 29
The Nonessential PodcastHuman Claw MachineWe often view piracy through a Western lens, but this week, Ben explores the tale of Chinese pirate-slash-warlord, Li-ma-hong. As a young rapscallion, his crew fleet grew quickly. But how cunning was this swashbuckler, really? Listen and find out. Steve discusses American athletic hero Robert Garrett, and his ballsy scheme to ensure a trip to the first modern Olympic games in 1876. Let's just say his approach to international athletic competition mirror's many of Steve's collegiate study habits. This week's sources: Robert Garrett, Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Garrett
2018-06-261h 01
The Nonessential PodcastEpisode 1: Yellow CapeThis week, Ben kicks off the show with a series of interesting, if not dubious, urban legends straight out of Japan. These ghosts and ghouls love to quiz their victims, so this may actually be essential listening. Steve tells a brief biography of marine documentarians and all-around crazy couple Valerie and Ron Taylor, whose love of sharks led to an expedition that tests both nature, and what we can consider sane science. Check out the debut episode of The Nonessential Podcast! This Week's Sources: 'The Inunaki Village - The Re...
2018-06-081h 11