Shows
Disaster HourEp. 92: Disco DemolitionDynamite is the Swiss army knife of explosives.Season 9 is here! Starting off the Road to 100, Ian and Liv talk about a promotional event at a 1979 White Sox double-header in Chicago, where fans were encouraged to bring vinyl disco records to be detonated on the field between games. However, the event takes a sharp left as the fans turn into nightmare of a riot. Also, Ian decorates the studio for the holidays. Liv was not only afraid, but also petrified.
2025-11-291h 03Disaster HourSeason 8 Recap, with Bob and Kylie AnnSeason 8 was a wild ride! Just like a rollercoaster, only with more delays and angst. In our Season 8 recap, Ian and Liv are joined by the ever-loved Bob and Kylie for an absolutely thrilling trip down memory lane, while they discuss the last twelve episodes of Disaster Hour. Sit back, relax, take your prescribed antidepressants, and pretend the world isn't on fire for 61 minutes. Also, Ian wants to want to be nice. Kylie is an unexpected winner. Bob reminisces about a country bar. Liv's sub-par guessing skills are showcased.
2025-11-211h 01Disaster HourEp. 91: The 1995 Chicago Heatwave, Part 2: Staggering IncompetenceLake Michigan is place where everyone feels like they fit in.In this one, Ian and Liv finish talking about Chicago's heatwave, the COMPLETE lack of competence in the mayor's office, Trina Vega's One Woman Show, and the aftermath of a disaster that resulted in more than 700 deaths. Yes, it's still hot. Yes, it's still the 90s. And yes, there's a Dakota cameo at the end.Also, Liv [insert quirky yet relatable fact here.] Ian [insert silly and snide quip here.]
2025-10-3147 minDisaster HourEp. 90: The 1995 Chicago Heatwave, Part 1: High Misery IndexChicago really is the perfect cup of tea.In this one, Ian and Liv venture back to the 90s for a week-long heatwave that caught Chicago by surprise. The city's resources were overwhelmed, residents were dying from the suffocating heat, there were no vacancies at the morgue, the mayor was MIA, and the response from city hall was lackluster at best.Also, Ian enjoys hiking just around the riverbend. Liv really feels like she's fitting in.
2025-10-2751 minDisaster HourEp. 89: The Edmund Fitzgerald ShipwreckCalling off work could save your life.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Edmund Fitzgerald, a freighter ship on the Great Lakes that sank in 1975. There was a storm, there was tragedy, there was a possibility of aliens! And even though Leo never stared in a movie about it, the disaster left an impressive mark on pop-culture.Also, Liv dances her heart out to Gordon Lightfoot. Ian focuses on murders. Dakota is intimidated by the camera. Otto is napping silently in the living room.
2025-10-1756 minDisaster HourEp. 88: The Dixon Bridge Collapse (Remastered)The 1800s were lawless and godless.In this one, Ian and Liv revisit one of their original episodes, involving a bridge collapse in the 1870s, lying, bribery, and good ol' fashioned investigative journalism!Also, Liv flies on planes just to watch The Lego Movie. Ian reintroduces the term "evil-disposed persons."Double also, this is our last remastered episode for a while, so complaints are no longer being heard by the committee at this time.
2025-10-091h 00Disaster HourEp. 87: Live Show! Accidental Deaths, Vol. 2We're live again!Summer is coming to an end, so Ian & Liv wanted to have one more live show to make the most of the warm weather. Get ready for another live compilation of ridiculous death stories. Also, Ian & Liv use the live episode as a fundraise for Ian's friend, Molly. It was an amazing success!
2025-09-2649 minDisaster HourEp. 86: Ten Cent Beer Night (Remastered)Mob mentality usually is not the best policy. In this one, Liv's sister Alexa revisits the studio to talk about Ten Cent Beer Night, a promotional MLB game in 1974 where beers were sold for just ten cents a piece. Unfortunately, there was minimal-to-no regulation on how much beer wasdistributed, and the spectators quickly turned Cleveland Stadium in a gladiator arena. Violence, drugs, alcohol, and more violence were the dominating forces of nature that night.Also, Ian has a pocket dimension where he keeps his beer. Liv has all six Infinity Stones. Lex is just happy...
2025-09-1148 minDisaster HourEp. 85: The London Beer FloodPorters are the deadliest of beers.In this one, Ian, Libby, and Bob talk about the London Beer Flood, a disaster in which several massive vats of beer exploded in 1814, releasing a tsunami of beer into the streets of London. A neighborhood was left in shambles, the innocent were killed, and the survivors' behavior was a bit unconventional.Also, Libby wishes she had swam in urine. Bob learns the difference between east and west. Ian defends the morally corrupt.
2025-08-3151 min
Disaster HourAngryFans, Ep. 3: "Truly sick"It's time to address the disgruntled. In this one, Ian and Liv read hate comments from AngryFans, because going out of your way to spread hate is easier than moving on with your life and being happy. But at least it gives Liv and Ian content to ridicule for a half hour!Also, Ian is very smart. Liv is a joy at dinner parties.
2025-07-3127 minDisaster HourEp. 84: Waterslide and Rollercoaster Accidents: Volume 1Y'all know Liv's collarbone story, right?In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a bunch of waterslide accidents, and a few rollercoaster disasters. From falling off a waterslide, to being impaled by an oncoming rollercoaster, this episode highlights the joys and tragedies of summer vacation!Also, Ian brings Buzz Lightyear onto the Podcast. Liv has a visceral response to the stories.
2025-07-2655 minDisaster HourEp. 83: The Rana Plaza CollapseGenerally speaking, following a blueprint is a great idea.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about an 8-story building that collapsed in Bangladesh in 2013. However, during the building's construction, several distinct deviations from the original blue prints were made, which not only compromised the building's integrity, but would cost the lives of more than a thousand innocent people. Also, Liv returns with the maturity of a 9-year-old. Ian hates a popular shopping chain.
2025-07-1740 minDisaster HourEp. 82: The Emu WarEmus and Bloomin' Onions, what more could you want?In this one, Katie fills in for Liv while she's on vacation for a riveting discussion about a war against emus. In 1932, farmers in western Australia were not only plagued with drought and poverty, but also an untimely and massive emu migration. The solution to this problem was, in a word, unique.Also, Katie confuses emus and alpacas. Ian tries out a new accent.
2025-07-0352 minDisaster HourEp. 81: The Mt. St. Helens EruptionBe careful near bulges, everyone.Season 8 is here! In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the infamous eruption of Mt. St. Helens in 1980. There was lava, lightning, earthquakes, and mudslides (no, not the kind with alcohol). Oh, and there was also a massive bulge. Also, Ian chooses jail time. Liv is obsessed with Katie.
2025-06-2651 minDisaster HourSeason 7 Recap, with Dylan & LibbySeason 7 is over, but the discussion is still rolling! In this one, Ian and Liv are joined by recurring characters Dylan and Libby for a fun-filled discussion about the last ten episodes, followed by a heated gameshow where knowledge of Season 7 is key.Also, Dylan suggests a unique wine pairing. Libby is afraid of poop. Liv's memory is unimpressive. Ian replaces Pat Sajak.
2025-06-1943 minDisaster HourEp. 80: The Hyatt Regency Walkway CollapseJust remember, there were no rules in the 80's.In this one, Ian scrapped notes for his planned episode to cover a topic that was highly requested by *all of you.* The walkway at the Hyatt Regency in Missouri collapsed in 1981, killing more than 100 people, and the following investigation was incredibly shocking in terms of negligence and immaturity.Also, Ian loves himself more than anyone. Liv plans to rebuild society through classy dinner parties.
2025-06-1245 minDisaster HourEp. 79: The Six Flags Haunted Castle FireKindling 'R Us did not sponsor this episode.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a haunted house from the 1980s that caught fire, causing the death of 8 people at Six Flags. Spoiler alert: the victims were all teenagers, and Ian & Liv hate episodes that involve children.Also, Ian lost a toenail in a lazy river. Liv enjoys margs by the pool, especially in the summer.
2025-06-0547 minDisaster HourEp. 78: Fyre Festival: The Ultimate Party FoulSometimes, free tequila is a red flag.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about Fyre Fest, a concert/bash weekend in the Bahamas that would have been super cool-IF it had actually happened. But why didn't it happen? What were the road blocks? Where were the adults? Why was the FBI involved? Find out in Episode 78!Also, Ian learns about Coachella. Liv turned down Ja Rule on more than one occasion.
2025-05-281h 26Disaster HourEp. 77: The Concorde Flight DisasterYou can definitely be harmed by airplane debris.In this one, one of Ian's favorite people, Libby, fills in for Liv during a discussion about the supersonic jet, the Concorde, and the horrific and deadly Concorde crash that took place just outside of Paris in 2000. They also discuss how Ian is old, inflation, and how they've been lied to by Lindsay Lohan.Also, Libby has an obsession with the Pope. Ian can't speak French.
2025-05-1552 minDisaster HourEp. 76: Live Show! Accidental Deaths, Vol. 1Liv and Ian finally had a REAL audience!Disaster Hour is celebrating 2 YEARS! To celebrate, Ian and Liv recorded an episode in front of a live, in-studio audience! There was real laughter, real applause, no do-overs, fire, party fouls--this episode has it all!Also, Ian has a lot in common with Tinker Bell. Liv is a self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie.
2025-05-0658 minDisaster HourEp. 75: The Crash at Crush Train Explosion (Remastered)Just like Ian and Liv, these episodes only get better with age. In this one, Ian and Liv revisit the Crash at Crush, a train wreck from 1896 that was orchestrated for entertainment. Now, the podcast has come a long way in two years, and being one of Ian's all time favorite disasters, he felt it was time to re-record the episode to give it the justice it deserved.Also, Liv reminds us that she failed math in high school. Ian can't imagine life without technology.
2025-04-2450 minDisaster HourEp. 74: Carnival's "Poop Cruise" CatastropheEvery deck was a poop deck.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a Caribbean cruise from 2013 that took an unexpected left turn when the ship's sewage system failed, causing many of the toilets onboard to overflow with human waste. The ship's engines failed as well, which left the 4000+ people on board stranded in the Caribbean on the stinky, sloppy poop cruise. Grade-A bummer.Also, Ian has a very regimented morning routine. Liv would turn to a life of crime during a tragedy.
2025-04-1255 minDisaster HourEp. 73: The Donner Party, Part 3: The Cannibalism EpisodeSpoiler alert: This episode contains entirely too much cannibalism. It's the conclusion of Ian and Liv's three-part series on the Donner Party: a group of migrating pioneers whose journey ends in the worst dinner party. Will anyone from the Donner Party escape the mountains? Will they ever make it to California? And most importantly, will Lansford Hastings pay for the lies and misery? Find out now! Did someone say "Donner Dinner Party?" Also, Liv's brain is not a sponge. Ian commandeers Bob's voice.
2025-03-271h 25Disaster HourEp. 72: The Donner Party, Part 2: No Food, No Hope, No MercyThe Oregon Trail was ruthless.In Part 2, Ian and Liv get back on the Oregon Trail with the Donner Party, who has just embarked on Hastings' Cutoff. The food runs out, the desert is brutal, and the mountains are impassable. This puts the pioneers on a direct path to their final destination: cannibalism. Also, Ian loves Burger King. Liv is surprised by snow.
2025-03-1355 minDisaster HourEp. 71: The Donner Party, Part 1: Hiking Into HellAvoid people with tuberculosis.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the infamous Donner Party, a group of pioneers who became stranded on the Oregon Trail and turned to cannibalism to survive. In part 1, Ian and Liv set the scene for how the party came face to face with such a miserable fate.Also, Liv confuses Dahmer with the Donners. Ian reminisces about having hair.
2025-03-0659 minDisaster HourEp. 70: The Princess Alice Steamboat DisasterEven in the 1800s, nobody used their turn signals.In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a steamboat that sank in the River Thames after it was struck and split in half by a much larger boat. Of course, there was mayhem, an investigation, and a trial that could only happen more than a century ago.Also, Liv sounds like she smokes 20 packs a day. Ian is becoming a mature adult.
2025-02-1353 minDisaster HourEp. 69: The 1904 Olympic MarathonThe science is in: poison is bad.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Olympic marathon at the 1904 Summer Olympics, which took place in the fine, fine city of St. Louis, Missouri. The marathon was full of unexpected obstacles, such as wild dogs, oncoming traffic, and poison. It's almost like the course was specifically designed to be difficult.
Also, Ian can't imagine the fourth dimension. Liv is running from her inner demons.
2025-02-0653 minDisaster HourEp. 68: The Ibrox Stadium CollapseAll sports are soccer now.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a stadium that collapsed at a professional football match in Scotland in 1902. And by football, of course, we mean "soccer" as it's called in the United States.
Also, Ian kicks ass at doing "the wave." Liv really dislikes the Chiefs.
2025-02-0151 min
Disaster HourAngryFans, Ep. 2: "Completely tone-deaf podcast"Something magical has happened again: Ian and Liv got more hate mail!Another bonus episode, full of negative comments and reviews about the podcast. As much as Liv and Ian appreciate the kind words from our cherished listeners, the occasional angry comments bring a little extra spice to the podcast. Enjoy!Also, Liv is prone to physical harm. Ian yells a lot.
2025-01-2824 minDisaster HourEp. 67: The Rolling Stones & Hell's Angels ConcertHow can anyone hate Mick Jagger?
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a free festival in 1969 that featured performances from The Rolling Stones, Santana, plus other famous rock bands. The festival, which was held at Altamont Speedway in California, offered a unique experience, in that the Hell's Angels were hired "not as security," but to "hang out and drink beer in front of the stage during the performances." What could go wrong?
Also, Liv gets an adrenaline rush from cleaning. Ian wants to go hitch-hiking.
2025-01-2349 minDisaster HourEp. 66: The Whakaari / White Island Volcano Eruption (2019)Again, magma and lava are not the same thing.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a volcano that erupted in New Zealand in 2019, on Whakaari / White Island. A beautiful day turned tragic when the island's volcano unexpectedly erupted while tourists were hiking the volcano's summit.
Also, Ian fantasizes about owning his own island. Liv fantasizes about touching lava.
2025-01-091h 04
Disaster HourBonus Content! Ian Plays "FossilFuel"You asked for bonus content, here it is! While Ian and Liv are taking a few weeks off from your regularly scheduled programming, Ian plays a dinosaur-themed horror game on PS5, which is full of jump-scares. Spoiler alert: Ian gets killed more than once.
2024-12-2715 minDisaster HourEp. 65: Animal Attacks, Vol. 2Prepare for a lot of human kills.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about 5 different animal attacks. They've got bears, tigers, crocodiles, mystic wolves, and goonch catfish. Yes, that's right, goonch. This is one of those episodes where Ian and Liv really aren't taking anything seriously.
Also, "goonch" becomes Liv's new favorite word. Ian is a "grizzly bear apologist."
2024-12-2058 minDisaster HourEp. 64: OceanGate, Part 2: The InvestigationSome people just can't see the vision.It's been one year since Ian and Liv first covered OceanGate's disastrous Titan submersible implosion. The investigation into the tragedy is still ongoing, and this past fall, a two-week long hearing was held to collect the testimonies of people who had any involvement with OceanGate, and/or the infamous Titan. And if that didn't tickle your fancy, guest hosts Dylan and Katie joined for Part 1, and they're both returning for Part 2! Life is beautiful, isn't it?Also, Dylan suggests a Black Friday deal. Katie panics while doing simple...
2024-12-121h 21Disaster HourEp. 63: The LA Fireworks Detonation DebacleFireworks, because fire works!
In this one, Ian and Liv discuss a fireworks explosion from 2021. In an LA neighborhood, homemade fireworks are confiscated by law enforcement and eliminated in a controlled explosion. However, things don't quite go as planned, and "controlled" is the last word that describes the explosion.
Also, Liv hates email. Ian learns about envelope pushing.
2024-11-2848 minDisaster HourEp. 62: The Costa Concordia Shipwreck, Part 2: World's Shittiest CaptainDon't be your own hero, be your own scapegoat.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the salvaging, investigation, and trial for the Costa Concordia Shipwreck. What becomes of the wrecked cruise ship? What evidence does the investigation uncover? Who is formally charged with causing the disaster? Does the video quality look better than it did in Part 1? We hope so.
Also, Liv tries to shame Ian with words. Ian creates a clothing brand for the delusional.
2024-11-2156 minDisaster HourEp. 61: The Costa Concordia Shipwreck, Part 1: Abandon ShipThe batteries aren't supposed to get wet.
Season 6 is here! Also, we have video!
In this first episode of a two part series, Ian and Liv talk about the sinking of the cruise ship Costa Concordia. In 2012, a Mediterranean cruise struck a rock bed just off the coast of a small island near Tuscany. The ship, after sinking on an underwater cliff, came to rest while it was half above/half under the water. How did this happen, and how did everyone on board react when the ship began sinking?
Also, Liv claims...
2024-11-151h 06Disaster HourEp. 60: The Centralia Mine FireDoing nothing is so much easier sometimes.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a fire that broke out in a coal mine beneath the small town of Centralia, Pennsylvania. What's the kicker? The fire started in 1962, and it's still burning today, in 2024. How did the fire start? Why has it been burning for 62 years? What's the proper way of referring to Pennsylvania state in casual conversation? All will be answered in the Season 5 finale!
Also, Ian still can't find his carbon monoxide detector. Liv has a profound revelation on the concept of human...
2024-10-241h 02Disaster HourIan Plays Resident Evil 2, Part 1You all wanted more content, so here you go! Ian revisits a video game for the first time that he played in, like, 4th grade: Resident Evil 2. Obviously the game has been remastered, since PS5 wasn't around when Ian was in elementary school. Spoiler alert: Ian still sucks at video games.
2024-10-2213 minDisaster HourEp. 59: The Absurd History of Witch Trials, Part 2That's grimoire!In this one, Ian and Liv continue their discussion on witch trials, witchcraft, and how the both of them would've instantly been convicted of witchcraft during the 1600s. Fair warning, if you have something funny/topical to say, and you're a woman in the 1600s? You're probably a witch. Right? Maybe? History seems misleading and confusing. Also, Liv's alter ego is Joe Cool. Ian doesn't know how to pronounce French words.
2024-10-171h 04Disaster HourEp. 58: The Absurd History of Witch Trials, Part 1Keep your familiars in line, everyone.
In this one, Ian and Liv keep the spirit of Spooky Season alive as they discuss the absolutely absurd history of witch trials. The Middle Ages were a time where anything was possible, but only if you didn't use too much common sense.
Also, Liv would've been among the first witches to be executed in the 1500s. Ian likely would've negotiated with the devil for the power to cast evil spells.
2024-10-101h 00Disaster HourEp. 57: Dyatlov Pass: Expedition of DeathNo good comes from charting uncharted territory.
In this one, Liv and Ian talk about a group of nine people who went on a cross-country skiing expedition in 1959. Sadly, all nine of the skiers would be found dead after they never returned from their journey. How did this happen? Were the elements of nature too much? Was espionage involved? Perhaps aliens? All are a possibility.
Also, Ian becomes overwhelmed. Liv is underwhelmed.
2024-10-031h 13Disaster HourEp. 56: The Westray Mine DisasterIt's all about the space between.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about an explosion inside of a coal mine, which then caused most of the mine to collapse, trapping and killing the miners working at the time. And, to nobody's surprise, corporate negligence plays a role, as does legal fraud.
Also, Liv is only somewhat claustrophobic. Ian unplugged his carbon monoxide detector.
2024-09-261h 00Disaster HourEp. 55: The Byford Dolphin Explosive DecompressionWarning: Adult supervision required for this episode.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a pressurized habitat on a drilling rig that instantly depressurizes, causing instant death for the people inside the habitat. Specifically, their bodies
basically exploded from the inside out. How did this happen? What is a pressurized habitat? Was Ariel suffering from a case of the bends? Listen up and find out.
Also, Liv continues struggling with the concept of PSI. Ian makes plans to buy helium from Walmart.
2024-09-1951 minDisaster HourEp. 54: The Four Pests Ecological DisasterIntroducing Pizza Hut Magneto.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Four Pests campaign. What is it? A 1950s Chinese communist propaganda campaign that was intended to convince the Chinese citizens to kill all of the rats, mosquitos, flies, and sparrows in China. However, this mass extermination seriously damaged China's ecological system, leading to famine.
Also, Liv proposes theatrical performances as a solution to famine. Ian knows the difference between crack and cocaine.
2024-09-121h 07Disaster HourEp. 53: The Challenger ExplosionNational. Ass. Station. Anonymous.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Challenger, a United States Space Shuttle that exploded during it's launch back in 1986. Despite all of the warning signs in the years preceding the tragedy, officials at NASA proceeded with the launch, which ultimately claimed the lives of the seven astronauts on board. And did you know it gets cold in Florida?
Also, Liv has what it takes to be a rocket scientist. Ian is a shockingly ideal astronaut candidate.
2024-09-051h 27Disaster HourEp. 52: Woodstock '99, Part 2: Arson & RageTime to break stuff.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the last two days of Woodstock '99. The chaos continues, there's more violence, more rage, and a LOT more arson. Figurative shit explodes, and there's still not enough water.
Also, Liv condones destruction of personal property. Ian fantasizes about participating in riot control.
Here's the links to the Saturday night performances that Ian and Liv watched:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7ffjitpLlA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YGfoIdgpFE
2024-08-291h 03Disaster HourEp. 51: Woodstock '99, Part 1: Total AnarchySurprise! We're back a day early! Double surprise, it's another two-parter!
In this one, Ian and Liv kick off Season 5 with the mega-catastrophe that was a the 3 day long music festival in 1999, known as Woodstock '99. Violence, filth, drugs, blistering heat, and nudity were just a portion of the mayhem at this festival.
Also, Ian learns about the yellow pages and Pay-Per-View TV. Liv humble brags about attending a One Direction concert.
2024-08-211h 00
Disaster Hour50th Episode Spectacular!It's the 50th Episode Spectacular!
In this one, Ian and Liv revisit some of their favorite moments from the past 50 episodes, as well as compete against each other in several different trivia games with content from the podcast. Get ready for some nostalgia, life advice, Bob, gameshow hostility, and more nostalgia. A horse was not involved.
Also, Liv recommends finding a better use of your free time. Ian reveals his competitive nature.
Thank you all for listening for the last 50 episodes! Cheers to 50 more!
2024-07-181h 19Disaster HourEp. 49: Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571In this one, Ian and Liv talk about an airplane that crashed in the Andes Mountains in 1972. The survivors were stranded and presumed dead, and were forced to take drastic measures to remain alive until they were rescued.
Also, Liv recounts an eventful experience at Chili's. Ian was a frost mage in World of Warcraft.
2024-07-1156 minDisaster HourEp. 48: The HindenburgDid the windows on zeppelins open or not?
In this one, Liv's dad/Ian's Uncle Joe returns for a good ol' fashioned discussion about The Hindenburg disaster. Who would've guessed that the inside of a zeppelin is comparable to a cruise ship? By the end of the episode, you'll be familiar with a "flying moor" and how the Nazi regime affected SpongeBob.
Also, Liv hates noisy aircrafts. Joe isn't a fan of actress Ally Sheedy. Ian learns where Lactaid is made.
2024-07-031h 27
Disaster HourAngryFans, Ep. 1: "So Appalled"Ian and Liv got hate mail for the first time!
In this new segment, Ian and Liv will read through negative reviews of Disaster Hour and give their own feedback of the review from an AngryFan. In their first AngryFans segment, the "human" reviewer was "so appalled."
2024-06-2111 minDisaster HourEp. 47: Elevator Accidents, Vol. 1Prepare to be 1 in 27.
In this episode, Ian and Liv talk about 8 different elevator accidents from the last 100 years or so. Ian and Liv also had been drinking for hours before the recording of this episode. Have fun getting on an elevator after listening to these horrific accidents.
Also, Ian gets really sweaty. Liv strongly dislikes C-3PO.
2024-06-1352 minDisaster HourEp. 46: The Cuyahoga River FireRivers should flow, not ooze.
In this one, Ian and Liv are joined once again by Liv's sister/Ian's cousin Alexa once again to talk about the Cuyahoga River Fire, which took place in 1969. Like the name implies, the northeast Ohio river catches fire because it was so heavily polluted by local industry. Local politicians tried to address the pollution and clean up the ecosystem, but they had an extremely uphill battle ahead of them.
If your water tastes like medicine, probably best not to drink it.
Also, Liv struggles with basic sentence...
2024-06-061h 14Disaster HourEp. 45: Heaven's Gate, Part 2Human leadership has been compromised.
In this one, Ian and Liv reach the conclusion of their two-part series on Heaven's Gate, a religious cult which ended tragically in mass suicide in 1997. This one has it all: full page newspaper ads, computer start-ups, telescopes, comets, so what more could you ask for? Aliens? Unfortunately for Marshall, that's the ONE thing his "alien cult" doesn't have.
Also, Liv confirms that human leadership has indeed been compromised. Ian learns that cable TV still exists.
Double Also, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It's completely free to...
2024-05-231h 19Disaster HourEp. 44: Heaven's Gate, Part 1Friends don't let friends join cults.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a religious cult that began in the 1970s, "The Class," which barely survived for 20 years until the remaining 39 cult members, along with their leader, committed mass suicide in 1997. Eventually, this became cult became known as "Heaven's Gate," and has since become famous not only for their mass suicide, but the sheer absurdity of events that the cult leaders orchestrated during its span of two decades.
Spoiler Alert: The aliens don't arrive in Part 1.
Also, Liv gains self-confidence. Ian learns...
2024-05-161h 22Disaster HourEp. 43: The Aberfan DisasterJust the tip.
In this one, Liv and Ian talk about a mudslide/landslide/avalanche that struck the town of Aberfan, Wales, in 1966. Among the victims were children in a school that was in the center of the mudslide's path.
Also, Ian discusses an alternate version of Shrek. Liv wants to go to Applebee's.
The Aberfan Disaster official tribunal report:
http://www.mineaccidents.com.au/uploads/aberfan-report-original.pdf
2024-05-091h 12Disaster HourEp. 42: Ocean RangerY'all know the ocean is cold, right?
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about an oil rig that sank in the middle of the night during an intense storm. Rogue waves were involved. Did you know they're a real thing?
Also, Ian is delirious from working all day. Liv confirms that she only has one personality.
2024-05-0250 minDisaster HourEp. 41: The Radium Girls, Part 2Part 2? It's time TWO sit down and listen.
In this one, Ian and Liv conclude their story on the Radium Girls in the second part of their first ever Two-Parter. What becomes of the Radium Girls? Does USRC get screwed in court? Was Marie Antoinette involved? Lots, yes, no.
Also, Liv is freaked out by the coyotes. Ian loves Erin Brockovich.
2024-04-2557 minDisaster HourEp. 40: The Radium Girls, Part 1If it glows, it's probably dangerous.
In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Radium Girls, five young women who filed a lawsuit against their employer for knowingly exposing them to a deadly radioactive chemical: Radium. And, as you can imagine, the corporate lawyers of the early 1900s would stop at nothing to prove their false innocence.
Also, Liv is ready for a suppository. Ian got a new keyboard.
2024-04-1858 minDisaster HourEp. 39: The Glendale Train CrashSpecial Alert: Katie's back. In this one, Ian and Liv are joined once again by Katie to talk about a triple train wreck back in 2005 that resulted in 11 deaths. Fun fact: Costco employees are the best people to walk the face of the Earth.
Also, Katie argues about different types of trains. Liv learns about the original CSI show. Ian gets defensive over Thomas the Tank Engine.
2024-03-281h 08Disaster HourEp. 38: The Halifax ExplosionMaritime safety is very important. In this one, Liv and Ian talk about two ships that crashed in 1917 in Halifax. If that wasn't bad enough, one ship was carrying a boat load (word play) of explosives, all which detonated simultaneously. Halifax was almost completely wiped off the map by the explosion, as well as the subsequent tsunami. To add insult to injury, there was a blizzard the following day in Halifax.
Also, Ian struggles to speak English. Liv is not an official Uber sponsor.
2024-03-211h 07Disaster HourEp. 37: Mt. Pelee: Lava, Vipers, Denial & Pure HellFor the record, volcanos can kill you. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the eruption of Mt. Pelee and the destruction of the nearby city, St. Pierre, on the island of Martinique in 1902. But the volcano isn't the only part of nature that claims the lives of civilians living near the volcano. Starving vipers, desperate for food and shelter, invade the city just before the eruption, adding more mayhem to the situation.
Also, Liv wants to touch lava with her bare hands. Ian does not.
2024-03-0856 minDisaster HourEp. 36: The Dancing PlagueHow much dancing is too much? In this one, Ian and Liv are joined by friend and special guest host Ashley while they talk about one of strangest plagues in history: Dancing Plague. In 1518, hundreds of people in Strasbourg were compelled to dance, and couldn't stop no matter how hard they tried. And yes, people died from dancing. Probably from dancing the Jitterbug.
Also, Liv knows a lot of sayings. Ashley is reassimilated into society. Ian has never seen Footloose, staring Kevin Bacon.
2024-03-021h 04Disaster HourEp. 35: The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory FireSometimes, "stop drop and roll" isn't enough in the event of a fire. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a fire that broke out in a sweatshop in NYC more than 100 years ago. Pro tip: if you're looking to save a few bucks on the construction of a factory, the fire sprinkler system isn't the cut you should make. Don't learn that the hard way.
Also, Ian begins falling apart when he's tired. Liv has personal experience as a "town crier."
2024-02-2357 minDisaster HourEp. 34: The Le Mans DisasterThe most dangerous part of racing? When your race car is launched off of another car and then explodes when it lands on the track. That usually ruins the experience for everyone. In this one, Liv and Ian talk about the 1955 LeMans disaster, a race where that exact scenario happened. Yikes.
Also, Liv is entertained by the Kardashians. Ian is glad Liv isn't dead.
2024-02-1554 minDisaster HourEp. 33: Remastered: The Boston MolassacreIf you listened to the second episode of this podcast and thought, "ya know, that wasn't their best," well you're not alone, because Ian thought so too. In this one, Ian and Liv retell one of their first disaster stories with more enthusiasm, more flair, and most importantly, more commentary. It was necessary, believe us.
Also, Liv gives her career in music another chance. Ian knows a thing or two about shanty towns.
2024-02-0856 minDisaster HourEp. 32: Animal Attacks, Vol. 1In this one, Ian and Liv didn't plan their vacations accordingly with each other, so Dylan fills in as the cohost for a discussion about several different stories of animal attacks. Although, is it really an "attack" if you jump into a polar bear's zoo enclosure and THEN it kills you?
Also, Ian and Dylan learn about herpes.
2024-02-011h 09Disaster HourEp. 31: Typhoid MaryThis is a formal request for all Disaster Hour listeners: Please wash your hands after defecation, urination, and all other bathroom activities. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the case of Mary Mallon, aka Typhoid Mary, who was a silent carrier of typhoid fever in the early 1900s. Spoiler alert: hand washing could've saved lives. Literally.
Also, Liv was a disease-ridden child. Ian is still playing Lego Fortnite.
2024-01-2455 minDisaster HourEp. 30: The Sultana Steamboat ExplosionIn this one, Ian and Liv start the new year off with another 1800s steamboat disaster. Unstable boilers, faulty repairs, ignoring safety regulations, explosions, all on the good ol' Mississippi! This one has it all. Southbound.
Also, Ian has strong feelings against The Lord of the Rings. Liv knows a thing or two about tectonic plates. Southbound.
2024-01-1752 minDisaster HourEp. 29: OceanGate, Part 1: The Titan ImplosionRemember that time the world stopped in its tracks to watch coverage of the missing OceanGate submersible? In this one, Ian and Liv are joined by two of Ian's closest friends: first time guest host Katie, and returning guest host Dylan. The crew talks about the disaster of the Titan submersible's demise and the many, many red flags that preceded the passengers' demise.
Also, Katie gets hostile over Kate Winslet. Dylan knows entirely too much about barometric pressures. Liv always washes the dishes. Ian doesn't read waivers.
2023-12-281h 44Disaster HourEp. 28: The Hartford Circus FireIn this one, Liv and Ian talk about a circus fire that resulted in the death of over 100 people, and injured hundreds more. And that doesn't even begin to broach the subject of arson and intrigue surrounding the fire's victims.
Also, Liv showcases her singing talent. Ian is thankful he doesn't have children.
2023-12-1155 minDisaster HourEp. 27: Topsy the ElephantPart 2 of Life's a Circus features not only the story of Topsy the Elephant, but Liv's oldest sister and Ian's first first cousin Tricia! (First first, as in the first 1st cousin Ian ever had.) In this one, the crew talks about Topsy, a circus elephant who was tragically execute for "violent behaviors." That's in quotes, because is it violence or self-defense if the circus handlers are abusing Topsy in the first place?
Also, Ian's baking skills are barely adequate. Tricia denies being a lawyer. Liv learns about Academy Award winner Sally Field.
2023-11-301h 09Disaster HourEp. 26: The Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus Train WreckIn this one, Ian and Liv talk about a train wreck in 1918 that tragically killed 86 members of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. To no surprise, this entire disaster could have been easily avoided.
Also, Liv remembers being awake for 24 hours. Ian learns about Sigmund Freud.
2023-11-1947 minDisaster HourEp. 25: The Khodynka TragedyIn this one, the disaster is a human stampede that takes place in Russia in 1896 at the coronation celebration for Nicholas II. Did you know you can be smothered in crowed while still standing?
Also, Liv has romantic feelings for a cartoon, and Ian is deeply concerned.
2023-11-1545 min
Disaster HourEp. 24: UFO AbductionsHappy Halloween! For this holiday special, Ian covers a series of UFO abduction stories, and Liv inserts logic into each situation.
Also, if you stick around for the full episode, you'll find out what happens when Liv and Ian don't coordinate the rules of a drinking game ahead of time.
Happy Halloween, everybody!
2023-11-011h 12Disaster HourEp. 23: Port RoyalIn this one, Liv and Ian are joined by Dylan (aka Ian's best friend) while they talk about the tragedy of Port Royal in 1692. A Jamaican island is decimated by not only an earthquake, but also by the following tsunami. Ian also talks about the rich culture and pirate history of Port Royal.
Also, Liv rewrites a famous Kansas song. Dylan learns Captain Morgan was a real person. Ian insists drowning feels good.
2023-10-291h 04Disaster HourEp. 22: The Shenyang Trolleybus ElectrocutionIn this one, Ian and Liv talk about a disaster in which public transportation in Shenyang, China, electrocuted passengers to death.
Also, Liv's guessing game is stellar. Ian unlocks a new achievement in soup.
2023-10-1947 minDisaster HourEp. 21: The Zanesville Animal MassacreIn this one, Ian and Liv discuss an incident where over 50 exotic animals escaped their enclosures at a private residence, and were roaming free in the rural town of Zanesville, Ohio, in 2011. Among these animals were lions, bears, wolves, tigers, and other exotic animals that posed a threat to not only the citizens of Zanesville, but also to the members of law enforcement who responded to the incident.
Also, Liv forgets her birthday again. Ian embraces getting old.
https://www.gq.com/story/terry-thompson-ohio-zoo-massacre-chris-heath-gq-february-2012
2023-10-1254 minDisaster HourEp. 20: Lake PeigneurIn this one, Ian and Liv talk about an oil rig that drills into a salt mine beneath a lake, which then causes the lake to drain into the salt mine, dissolves the mine, and creates a giant vortex of water that massacres the surrounding land and sucks in everything in it's immediate vicinity. So that's a lot to unpack.
Also, Liv struggles with basic concepts of maritime travel. Ian battles a stink bug in the studio.
2023-10-0553 minDisaster HourEp. 19: The Exploding WhaleIn this one, Liv's sister/Ian's cousin Alexa joins the podcast to talk about the time a beached whale was found dead in Oregon in 1970, and state workers tried using a thousand pounds of dynamite to blow up the whale's rotting corpse. Yes, you read that correctly. Anyone in the mood for sushi?
Also, Liv fantasizes about climbing dead whales. Alexa rebrands Hands Across America. Ian becomes a third wheel.
2023-09-251h 06Disaster HourEp. 18: The Dublin Whiskey FireIn this one, Ian and Liv discuss the myriad of ways a person can be killed by alcohol. More specifically, how a burning river of whiskey devastated the streets of Dublin in 1875. Fun fact: if you drink alcohol of a certain proof, you could be morbidly injured.
Also, Liv tries singing. Ian learns about the Free Masons. Horses return.
2023-09-1740 minDisaster HourEp. 17: Action ParkAre you someone who enjoys amusement parks, but are bummed out by modern rules against violence and public intoxication that the parks enforce? Then boy, if you were alive during the 80s, Action Park would've been the place for you! In this one, Ian and Liv talk about Action Park, an amusement park in the 80's where the rides were dangerous, the crowd was chaotic, and the risk of death was entirely too high.
Also, Liv survived a broken collar bone at a water park years ago, and Ian survived an (incredibly minor) accident in a lazy river.
2023-08-291h 15Disaster HourEp. 16: The Dixon Bridge CollapseIn this one, Ian and Liv talk about a bridge that collapsed in Dixon, Illinois, in 1873. Filled with people at the time of its demise, the Dixon Bridge collapse was responsible for the death and injuries of many citizens of Dixon. The bridge was later determined to be incredibly unsafe even before it was built, so what happened in history that allowed for the construction of the Dixon Bridge?
Also, Liv has a gift for Ian. Fashion and chivalry will kill you.
2023-08-191h 04
Disaster HourEp. 15: The 1916 Jersey Shark AttacksWar. Polio. Heat waves. What could make this worse? Sharks. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a series of shark attacks that occurred on the beaches of New Jersey during the summer of 1916. How many sharks were involved? How would everyone react to the first string of shark attacks that was publicized by the media? Who tried blaming a turtle?
Also, Ian learns an important lesson in fact-checking. Liv knows a thing or two about films.
2023-08-1148 minDisaster HourEp. 14: The USS IndianapolisIn this one, Ian, Liv, and special guest star Joe (Liv's dad and Ian's favorite uncle) joins them in talking about this one of the worst maritime disasters in history. In the summer of 1945, with the end of World War II just around the corner, a United States Naval ship is attacked and sank in Pacific waters. However, rescue is delayed, leaving the survivors stranded at sea for days. But why did it take so long for the rescue effort to save them?
Also, Ian learns about more movies he hasn't seen. Liv has an impressive boat...
2023-08-031h 13
Disaster HourBonus Episode! Mid-summer Preview!Ian and Liv take a few minutes to plan out their next five episodes! Liv picks episodes from a bowl at random. Also, did you know Disaster Hour has a listener in Malaysia? If that's you, you're awesome. High five (we mean it)!
2023-07-2707 minDisaster HourEp. 13: The Goiania Radiation AccidentPro tip: if you find a glowing substance in a lead canister, don't distribute the substance to your friends and family. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a radiation exposure in Brazil, in 1987. So many questions, and so many chances to avoid this accident. Spoiler alert: it's not food poisoning.
Also, Liv doesn't go to the doctor. Ian learns about former presidents. Otto farts.
2023-07-2753 minDisaster HourEp. 12: The Tenerife Airport DisasterWhat's one of the most important aspects of flying an airplane? Not flying your plane into another plane. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about the Tenerife Airport Disaster in 1977, where two passenger planes, Pan Am 1736 and KLM 4805 collide with each other, resulting in one of the deadliest aviation accidents in history. What's the twist? These two airplanes are still on the runway when this happens. Bonkers.
Also, Ian expresses dissatisfaction with Honda Civics. Liv wants more trains.
2023-07-1754 minDisaster HourEp. 11: The Lake Nyos Death CloudNature is always coming up with clever ways to rid the Earth of humans. In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a lethal cloud of carbon dioxide that is released from a lake in Africa, which smothers and kills almost everyone within miles. Lake Nyos is the culprit, but even more shocking, this isn't the only time this has happened.
Also, Ian didn't cut a burp during the editing process. Liv gets her "Stranger Things" fix.
2023-07-0646 min
Disaster HourEp. 10: Fireworks, Whiskey, and Natural SelectionIt's a Special Holiday Episode! For episode ten, Ian and Liv celebrate the Fourth of July by talking about a NINE different fireworks disasters! Each of these stories involve fireworks, most involve alcohol, and all of these disasters are served to you with a nice heaping scoop of natural selection on top!
SPOILER ALERT: igniting fireworks and other explosives on top of your head while likely kill you. THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
2023-06-2846 minDisaster HourEp. 9: Ten Cent Beer Night
Disaster strikes in Cleveland again! In this one, Ian and Liv talk about a marketing event by the Cleveland Indians in 1974, where beers were sold for 10 cents a piece at a Tuesday night Indians game. Much to nobody's surprise, the fans were wildly over-served, formed an angry mob, and rioted throughout the stadium by the end of the game. The 70's were quite the time.
Also, Ian had to remove about 30 minutes of him and Liv cackle-laughing from this episode during post-production. It took him much longer than expected.
2023-06-2042 minDisaster HourEp. 8: The El Dorado WildfireIn this one, Ian tells Liv about a wildfire that began in a park in California. However, this wildfire was started inadvertently by a couple who set off a smoke bomb during a gender reveal party, and it continued burning for months.
Also, Liv offers more reasonable suggestions for gender reveals. Ian learns about family bloggers.
2023-06-1431 minDisaster HourEp. 7: The Locust Plague of 1874In this one, Ian tells Liv about a swarm of locusts that appeared in the Great Plains in 1874, but continued to devastate the new frontier for years later. Nothing was safe from the maniacal, flying insects--crop fields, linens, even the clothes on the farmers' backs were a target for the locusts. But why did they suddenly disappear without warning?
Also, Liv has strong feelings about cottage cheese.
2023-06-0830 minDisaster HourEp. 6: The Tornado Super Outbreak, 2011In this one, Ian tells Liv about an outbreak of over 300 tornadoes that ravaged the southeast US, in just four days. Many storm records were set not only during this disaster, but throughout all of April 2011 and the rest of the year's storm season.
Also, Liv shares a bit Lowe's history, and Ian is utterly shocked.
Sources used:
Center, S. P. (2001, January 1). Storm prediction center storm reports page. Storm Prediction Center. https...
2023-05-3138 minDisaster HourEp. 5: Mt. Tambora & The Year Without Summer, 1816In this episode, Ian tells Liv about a volcano that erupted in 1815, Mt. Tambora, in Indonesia. However, the devastation this volcano causes to the entire planet is unlike anything we've seen in over 200 years, and the world reacts accordingly.
Also, Liv fantasizes about Woody Harrelson. Ian expresses fears about Walmart.
Sources used:
A&E Television Networks. (2009, November 13). Indonesian volcano erupts, killing 80,000. History.com. https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/volcanic-eruption-kills-80000
Bush, A. (2020, April 7). The beehive. the official blog of the...
2023-05-1853 minDisaster HourEp. 4: Balloonfest '86Liv tells Ian about the time United Way of Cleveland held a fundraising event that released over a million balloons. Sadly, the fundraiser was a failure, resulting in the death of two men and an unprecedented amount of public destruction.
Ian has questions about Drew Carey. Liv wants ice cream.
Sources used:
1. Balloonfest: Encyclopedia of cleveland history: Case western reserve university. Encyclopedia of Cleveland History | Case Western Reserve University. (2021, January 1). Retrieved May 4, 2023, from: https://case.edu/ech/articles...
2023-05-1028 minDisaster HourEp. 3: The Crash at CrushIn this one, Ian tells Liv about the time that two trains crashed head-on in 1896. But just because it was a crash doesn't mean it was an accident.
Liv and Ian both know trains still exist today.
Sources used:
Deeringer, M. (2011, August). The deadly crash at crush. Texas Co-op Power. Retrieved May 3, 2023, from https://texascooppower.com/the-deadly-crash-at-crush/
Franz, J. (2019, July 1). For 40 years, crashing trains was one of America's favorite pastimes. Atlas Obscura. Retrieved May 3, 2023, from https...
2023-05-0425 minDisaster HourEp. 2: The Boston Molasses FloodThe year? 1919. The place? Boston. The disaster? A bit sticky. How did a giant tank of molasses claim the lives of innocent bystanders? How did prohibition play a role in this disaster? How did people survive for 15 years during prohibition? At least two of those questions will be answered in this episode.
Also, we learn that Ian is uncultured swine.
Sources used:
1. Tikkanen, A. (n.d.). Great Molasses Flood. Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Great-Molasses-Flood
2023-05-0118 minDisaster HourEp. 1: The Lucy Walker Steamboat DisasterIn 1844, a passenger steamboat explodes on the Ohio River while traveling from Louisville to New Orleans. But why did this happen, and is anyone to blame?
Avoid horses.
References:
Beam, A. (2013, May 15). New Albany bicentennial: Lucy Walker steamboat disaster. News and Tribune. Retrieved March 30, 2023, from https://www.newsandtribune.com/news/floyd_county/new-albany-bicentennial-lucy-walker-steamboat-disaster/article_bb8390c9-5788-5d9e-8af0-90856cdaa7c1.html
Benton, B. (2021, October 10). Chatsworth's chief Vann House recognized by National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom: Chattanooga Times Free Press. Times...
2023-04-2732 min