Shows
Mission Spooky135. Creatures of WinterAs winter tightens its icy grip, ancient legends tell of creatures that emerge with the snow and cold. In this episode, we explore chilling tales from Inuit and Algonquin folklore, uncovering the fearsome Snow Wasset—an elusive predator that burrows beneath the snow—and the mighty Pamola, a spirit of the mountains with the power to control storms. Join us as we delve into the eerie myths of the frozen wilderness and the beings that lurk within.
Get 45% off the Magic Mind bundle with with my link: https://www.magicmind.com/SPOOKYJAN
Featured Music: "Say Something" - The...2025-02-0339 minMission Spooky134. The Dybbuk BoxWelcome to Season Six of Mission Spooky! Today, we’re diving into one of the most infamous objects in the paranormal world: the Dybbuk Box. You’ve probably heard the spine-chilling stories—a cursed wine cabinet haunted by a malevolent Jewish spirit, causing chaos, bad luck, and even death to those who dare to own it. But how much of this story is rooted in fact, and how much of it is just a cleverly marketed hoax?
In this episode, we’re unraveling the tangled web of truth and fiction surrounding the Dybbuk Box. First, we’ll explore th...2025-01-211h 25
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash of Pass: Thanksgiving Food!🦃 In this special holiday episode of Smash or Pass, we’re diving fork-first into the ultimate Thanksgiving feast! From classic turkey and stuffing to wild-card dishes like Ambrosia salad and spinach casserole, we’ll rate which festive foods make us say “smash!” and which get a hard “pass.” Tune in as we roast, toast, and maybe even gag over some of the most beloved Thanksgiving treats.
Will pumpkin pie reign supreme, or will green bean casserole steal the show?
Grab your stretchy pants and join us for a feast of flavor, laughs, and hot takes!
2024-11-2854 minMission Spooky133. Death By FoodFood is essential to life, but what happens when it turns deadly?
This episode explores the bizarre and macabre tales of individuals who met their untimely ends because of food. From factory workers tragically killed by industrial food production to mysterious and fatal meals, we delve into the dark side of our culinary world. Stories include the potato poisoning that claimed lives, a box of chocolate disaster, the sticky horror of a caramel catastrophe, toxic mushrooms, and even the dangers lurking in poultry processing plants. It's a feast of the fatal, blending history, true crime, and a...2024-11-2652 minMission Spooky132: "The Book of Japanese Folklore" w/ author Thersa MatsuuraJoin us for a lovely chat with Thersa Matsuura, author of The Book of Japanese Folklore. Known for her podcast Uncanny Japan and decades of exploring Japan's cultural myths and legends, Thersa shares insights into her favorite Yokai, her journey through Japanese folklore, and which Yokai she wouldn't like to meet in a dark alley! We also discuss Halloween's rising popularity in Japan, exploring how this Western tradition has been embraced and transformed with a unique Japanese flair.
Resources for Thersa Matsuura and Her Work:
Thersa Matsuura
The Book of Japanese Folklore
2024-11-171h 00
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash or Pass: Horror Villains!🎃 Get ready for a Halloween special filled with spooky laughs and questionable judgment calls as we tackle Smash or Pass: Horror Villains!
Join us as we examine horror’s most infamous baddies and ask the ultimate question: would you run for your life or take a chance on "love"?
From slasher icons to supernatural fiends, no villain is off-limits in this lighthearted game of terrifying ‘what ifs.’ Buckle up for laughs, chills, and a healthy dose of horror-loving humor!
2024-11-0142 minMission Spooky131. Them Bones: You Can't Own Grandma's SkullIn this episode, we dive into the fascinating and legally complex world of human remains. From the strict laws preventing the keeping of bones to the eerie allure of necromancy, we explore its origins in ancient Greece. We tackle the bizarre case of the witch who stole bones from New Orleans' Holt Cemetery, sparking a scandal known as "Bonegazi". Plus, we touch on the grim history of resurrectionists and the life of Grandison Harris, a man who was both a gravedigger and a medical assistant. Join us for a bone-chilling journey through history, magic, and the macabre.2024-10-231h 11Mission Spooky130. Bones of Contention: Skeletons in the Museum ClosetHappy Indigenous People's Day!
In this episode, we expose the unsettling truth about stolen Indigenous peoples' remains in some of the world’s most renowned museums, including the Smithsonian, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Illinois State Museum.
We dive into the ethical and legal battles surrounding the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), a law designed to return these sacred remains to their rightful communities.
Kiki touches on the erroneous pseudo-science of phrenology and how it led to a glut of both legal and questionably obtained skulls in mu...2024-10-151h 28Mission Spooky129. Cannibalism: Don't Eat, Grandma.In this episode, we discuss the disturbing and complex history of cannibalism. We explore the use of human body parts in corpse medicine—a practice once considered medicinal. We then dive into the legal questions surrounding the consumption of human flesh, examining the societal and cultural implications of such acts. Shifting to science, we analyze the psychological, biological, and evolutionary aspects of cannibalism, including how man-made conditions, such as famine or social breakdown, can drive individuals to cannibalistic behaviors. We unravel the psychology of wendigo psychosis—the haunting fear of turning into a flesh-eating monster.
This episode offe...2024-10-091h 50Mission Spooky128. Yokai Summer!: Five - Heads Will RollIn this end of Summer episode, we dive deep into some of Japan's most notorious and unsettling Yokai. These spirits and supernatural beings evoke fear, fascination, and intrigue. Join us as we explore the legends surrounding these five chilling figures and more:
1. Oni: The fearsome Oni, Japan’s iconic ogre-like demons, take center stage as we examine their immense strength, wicked nature, and the role they play as both villains and guardians in folklore. We’ll dive into their cultural symbolism and the tales that have kept their fearsome reputation alive for centuries.
2024-09-241h 33
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash or Pass: Pokémon!Welcome to another Bonus Episode of Smash or Pass.
Smash 'em All?!?
First, (off mic) we imagined we were magical anime creatures. Then, we compiled a list consisting of 10 favorite Pokemon per host (Cord, JC, Kayla, and Kiki). A final list of 12 was randomly generated from the master list of 40 Pokemon. There was a spreadsheet 🧐
Disclaimer: No Pokemon were physically harmed in the making of this episode but some feelings may have been hurt.
Music:
"Surprise Trap Door" by The Antti Jädertpolm Quartet2024-09-0442 minMission Spooky127. Yokai Summer! : Four - Hungry GhostsIn this special episode, released on the day of the Hungry Ghost Festival 2024, we delve into the haunting and fascinating world of Hungry Ghosts. These spirits, driven by insatiable desires and unfulfilled cravings, are a significant part of both folklore and religious teachings in East Asian cultures. Join us as we explore the lore and philosophy surrounding these tormented souls:
1. Gaki: Discover the eerie tales of the Gaki, spirits condemned to eternal hunger due to their past misdeeds.
2. Naegatsuku: Learn about the Naegatsuku, ghostly beings whose unquenchable thirst and hunger lead them...2024-08-1838 minMission Spooky126. Yokai Summer! : Three - Priests, Wizards and TsukumogamiIn the third installment of our Yokai series, we explore various unique and captivating Yokai - priests, wizards, and inanimate objects. These supernatural beings, each with distinct characteristics and stories, offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Join us as we delve into the lore of seven intriguing Yokai:
1. Hitotsume Nyūdō: Discover the eerie tales of the Hitotsume Nyūdō, a one-eyed monk who appears suddenly to travelers, causing fear and bewilderment. We'll explore its origins, its unsettling appearances, and the legends that surround this mysterious figure.
2024-07-3057 minMission Spooky125: Yokai Summer! : Two - From the Animal WorldIn the second episode of our series, we delve into the enchanting and often mischievous world of animal-based Yokai. These supernatural beings, rooted in Japanese folklore, take the form of animals with magical abilities and intriguing personalities. Join us as we explore the lore and legends of four fascinating Yokai:
1. Kitsune: Uncover the tales of the Kitsune, the magical fox spirit known for its shape-shifting abilities and intelligence. We'll delve into its roles as both a benevolent protector and a cunning trickster, and its rich cultural significance in Japanese mythology.
2024-07-171h 18
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash or Pass: British Iconography!Welcome to another Bonus Episode of Smash or Pass.
Happy Treason Day!
Happy 4th of July!
Listen to the gang decide if we would ... SMASH! or pass the following:
* The Greatest Naval hero in history!
* The Female Personification of the UK!
* A Very UK Sport!
* A Vehicle!
* A Fried Food!
* A Huge Plate of Food!
* The Male Personification of the UK!
* A Legendary King!
* A UK Institution!
* A Legendary Rogue!
* The...2024-07-0450 minMission Spooky124. Yokai Summer!: One - From the WaterWelcome to our debut episode of Yokai Summer, where we dive into the fascinating world of Japanese folklore and explore the mysterious creatures known as Yokai. In this episode, we journey through the tales and lore of five intriguing, water-based Yokai:
1. Kappa: Learn about the water-dwelling trickster known for its unique appearance and mischievous behavior. We'll discuss its habits, strengths, and the ways people have historically protected themselves from this notorious creature.
2. Nure Onna: Discover the eerie legend of the Nure Onna, a serpent-woman who haunts riversides. We'll unravel...2024-07-031h 10Mission Spooky123. Love, The Witch Hunter and the Highwayman XOXOWe love our Pennsylvania Folk Heroes and today we talk about two of our favorites: Loop Hill Ike and Davey "Robber" Lewis.
Loop Hill Ike was the name of an African American cryptid /witch hunter and paranormal "investigator" most likely based on the real person, Isaac Gaines (1837-1915).
Davey "Robber" Lewis was known as the Robin Hood of Pennsylvania (March 4, 1790 –July 12, 1820) He was a counterfeiter and gentleman highwayman who stole from the rich and gave to the poor.
2024-06-251h 13
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash or Pass: Cryptids of New JerseyWelcome to another Bonus Episode of Smash or Pass. We take on the most famous New Jersey Crytpids and decide if we would ... SMASH! or pass the following:
* Big Red Eye
* Hoboken Monkey-Man
* Jersey Devil
* Lake Hopatcong Sea Monster
* Mantis Man
* Spook Rabbit
Music provided by Kevin McCloud with "As I Figure".
2024-06-1035 min
Mission SpookyParanormal Dungeon: I Wanna Be Your DogWelcome back to the Paranormal Dungeon!
In this Dungeons and Dragons Meets Real World episode, JC (FINALLY) takes on the Barghest. Continuing on our journey of canine-related monsters, Cord tells the history of the Dire Wolf, Kayla talks about Pathfinder's Cù-sìth and Kiki brings you the Death Dog.
As always, we close out the information session with ideas on incorporating these fascinating doggos in your next game.
Music today was provided by Psykotic Refuge. If you need pod-safe or Twitch-safe music, you can find Psykotic Refuge on Bandcamp.
2024-05-2942 minMission Spooky122. Mystical Potter County: Ghosts, Ghouls, and Cryptid LegendsJoin us on this journey into the mysterious world of Potter County, Pennsylvania, where legends and lore come to life! In this episode, discover the cryptid Giwoggle, and meet The Potter Nondescript. We also uncover the chilling story of the Ghost of Amandon Baker and unravel the eerie legend of the Goblin Scarecrow of Potter County.
As we explore these spine-tingling tales, enjoy the haunting music of The Fair Attempts with their featured song, "Beyond the Edge of Nowhere."
2024-05-1448 min
Mission SpookyBONUS: Stanley Cup SpecialIt's not a secret that Kiki and Cord are hockey fans. So it made sense to celebrate the Finals, now in full swing with some weird hockey nonsense, superstitions, and curses!
Music provided by Psykotic Refuge with "Lunar Ice Cream Sandwich". 2024-05-0151 minMission Spooky121. The Tortured Toys DepartmentAre you tired of the divisiveness between generations? Looking for common ground with everyone from your grandparents to your nieces and nephews? Well, look no further than corporate America, not caring about kids! In this episode, the gang breaks down THE most dangerous toys for every generation from The Greatest Generation to Gen Alpha. Did your favorite toy make the list? Listen to find out! We'd love to hear from our non-US listeners on this subject as well, so drop us a line about your toy horror stories at missionspookypodcast@gmail.co,m and we'll...2024-04-231h 33
Mission SpookyBONUS: Smash or Pass: Cryptids of PennsylvaniaWelcome to the 1st Bonus Episode of Smash or Pass. We take on the most famous of Pennsylvania Crytpids and decide if we would ... SMASH! or pass the following:
* Albatwitch
* Dragon of Fayette County
* Giant Serpent of Adams County
* The Giwoggle
* Potter Nondescript
* The Raystown Ray
* The Squonk
* The Waterford Sheepman
2024-04-1035 minMission Spooky120. "The Lonely House w/ Author and Paranormal Investigator Michelle BelangerAuthor and paranormal investigator Michelle Belanger joins us again this time to discuss her new book "The Lonely House". Part horror story and part choose-your-own-adventure, The Lonely House is a playable work of fiction. We also discuss how tabletop games changed during COVID, the positive role TTRPGs can have in mental health, and how Michelle is doing with her run through Baldurs's Gate 3!
You can find Michelle's other works on her website on Itchio at Darkheart Games.
Our featured music for this episode is from Thee Ancient Asses with thier song "Gasoline Suite".2024-03-2054 min
Mission SpookyBONUS: Interview: HOME RPG Kickstarter Creator Nick from Deep Dark GamesWe have a special bonus interview for you while you wait for Season Five to start!
We teamed up with Logan and Ben from Lost Legends: Tales of Thurne and Godzilla: Destroy All Podcasts to bring you an amazing interview with RPG game creator Nick from Deep Dark Games. Nick walked us through their latest Kickstarter HOME: Mech vs Kaiju and even had us create a mech and a kaiju to showcase how fun and creative this new game will be! The Kickstarter ends on Thursday, March 7th, 2024 so pledge NOW before you miss it! 2024-03-0640 min
Mission SpookyKord Vs. Cryptid: Mystery at the White House!We suggest reviewing Episode 108 on the Haunting of the White House for maximum enjoyment of this President's Day Episode.
In a very special Kord vs Cryptid, our player Cord had no idea what he was about to fight and our DM Ben gave him some interesting surprises.
*You can find Ben's new book on Amazon in paperback or Kindle.
*You can listen to Kiki, Logan, Ben, Joey and Alec on Tales of Thurne.2024-02-1950 min
Mission SpookyBONUS BITE: Valentine's Day True Crime: The Cherry Hill MurderWe're bringing you something extra to celebrate true love ... er ... true crime. What happens when a girl of privilege, runs off to marry the man of her dreams? What happens when that dream man wears out his usefulness? Why, a love triangle and murder is what happens!
* Get 25% Off your purchase of Magic Mind with Code: MISSIONSPOOKY and 1 month FREE with a 3-month subscription!
2024-02-0623 minMission Spooky119: Messages In My Food and the Toynbee TilesIn this episode, we dive headfirst into some of Pennsylvania’s weirdest and most cryptic phenomena, starting with the infamous Toynbee Tiles, strange linoleum messages that began appearing in city streets in the 1980s. From there, we turn our attention to a more recent—and equally bizarre—mystery: cryptic conspiracy messages found inside food items across Pennsylvania, including loaves of bread, packaged meats, and snack foods. These handwritten or printed notes often reference strange political conspiracies, religious warnings, or apocalyptic predictions. We’ll be reading and unpacking several of these oddball inserts, discussing their possible origins, motives, and mean...2024-01-301h 14Mission Spooky118: Haunted StadiumsIn honor of Sportsball, we're talking haunted stadiums and one hotel some NBA stars refuse to sleep in:
*Memorial Stadium, Indiana University
*Nationwide Arena, Columbus, Ohio
*The Curse of Talladega
*Skirvin Hilton, near Chesapeake Energy Arena, OKC
*The Cursed Miami Dolphins (our condolences Fins Fans on the extension of that curse as of this recording. 😭)
* Get 25% Off your purchase of Magic Mind with Code: MISSIONSPOOKY and 1 month FREE with a 3-month subscription!
2024-01-1753 minMission Spooky117. 12 Days of Weirdmas Part 2Happy New Year!
*We've got PA news with The Era of Taylor Swift, The Utz Plant Machete Incident, and the Old Man Killed His Wife Over the Vet Bill.
*The Days of Weirdmas are:
7: Dead Geese in Lawrence County
8: Maids Swill Milking
9: Extensive Beer Can Collection
10: The Haines Shoe House
11: Pennsylvania Stonehenge
12: Bowman's Treasure
* Get 25% Off your purchase of Magic Mind with Code: MISSIONSPOOKY and 1 month FREE with a 3-month subscription!
* Outro music: "Fire Place" by HoliznaC...2024-01-0246 minMission Spooky116. 12 Days of Weirdmas Part 1We have a special two-part episode to celebrate Yule and the end of 2023! In Part 1, Kiki and Kayla discuss 12 Quick and Quirky Facts about the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, followed by 1 through 6 of 12 Days of Weirdmas: Pennsylvania Edition.*Days of Weirdmas:1: Missing Ornithologist2: Dead Pigeons in Philly3. Rotisserie Chicken Man4. Cannelton Pig Lady5. Collar Bomb Heist6. PA Toilets * Get 25% Off your purchase of Magic Mind with Code: MISSIONSPOOKY* Get 25% Off your purchase at Deck and Dice Games Code: MISSIONSPOOKY23*Our feat...2023-12-261h 06Mission Spooky115: Ghosts of Gettysburg with Mark NesbittJoin us as we finally discuss the ghosts of Gettysburg with the foremost authority on the region's ghost stories and history, Mark Nesbitt! *
* Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour
* Self-Guided Ghost Tour - Fredericksburg, VA
* Self-Guided Ghost Tour - Savannah, GA
* Mark's Book Shop2023-12-1237 minMission Spooky114. Haunted Roadways Volume 2We're on another road trip this episode with stops off in West Virginia, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
* Get 25% Off your purchase of Magic Mind with Code: MISSIONSPOOKY
* Get 25% Off your purchase at Deck and Dice Games Code: MISSIONSPOOKY23
*Our featured music is from Hex Automata with the song " You Can't Kill the Devil". 2023-12-051h 23
Mission SpookyBONUS BITE: Patreon Release: JC Gets SchooledAs we prepare for the coming Yuletide, we've decided to give our listeners an early gift by releasing an older Patreon Episode in which Cord and Kiki gave JC a surprise quiz on episode content! 2023-11-1434 minMission Spooky113: Funeral Home Follies and Fortune Telling TroublesIn this Special Halloween extra episode, we cover some current events related to a Colorado Funeral Home and the insane law against fortune telling in Pennsylvania that has led to some unneeded drama for a small business owner in Hanover, PA.
* Our featured music is from Jhariah with " Bad Luck".
* If you'd like to support The Serpent's Key, consider purchasing an Oracle card or sticker. 2023-10-311h 49Mission Spooky112. Staircases and Ghosts: They're Up to SomethingIn an extra episode just for Spooky Season, we take on the connection between the paranormal and staircases. We cover some of the most famous photographs of ghosts on staircases, a few weird staircase myths and romantic legends, and the famous "stairs to nowhere" in the Winchester House. To round out the episode, we discuss three films featuring staircases as well as some horror films with iconic staircase scenes!
* Our featured music is from Bonnie and the Mere Mortals with their song " Call of the Void"
* Our sponsor for this episode is Smell of Fear...2023-10-241h 30Mission Spooky111. Corpse RoadsA corpse road, prevalent in the United Kingdom's history, refers to ancient routes used for carrying the deceased to burial grounds, ensuring safe passage for mourners. In this episode, we'll get into the history of Corpse Roads in the UK, their counterparts here in the States, The Right to Roam law, superstitions and customs of transporting the dead as well as ley lines and dowsing rods.
* Our featured music is from Panic Priest with this song " When Daylight Disappears".2023-10-171h 02
Mission SpookyBonus Bite : Movie Set MayhemIn this special Friday the 13th episode we bring you some cursed films and a list of devastating deaths that have occurred on movie sets. Do we need stunt folks to continue these sacrifices? Do we require real guns on film sets? Are helicopters to blame for the most deaths in film and TV? We discuss all this and more!
* Our featured music today is from BITE! with their song "Run From the Devil".2023-10-131h 28Mission Spooky110: Haunted Churches / Quick Film Review*Welcome to Spooky Season 2023 and our special guest co-host for the entire season, The Mushroom Maiden, Kayla!*
*In this episode we take on Haunted Churches in New Orleans, and Pittsburgh, PA. We also discuss the Church Grim throughout history and cultures.
* Our extended show features 3 film reviews dealing with haunted churches or a church:
- Kayla : Stigmata (1999)
- Kiki: The Church (1989)
- Cord: The Nun (2018)
* Our featured music is by Year of October with their song "The Hounds".2023-10-031h 33Mission Spooky109: An Interview with Author of Malfus: Necromancer Unchained, Casey SuttonWe had the pleasure of sitting down with new author, Casey Sutton to discuss his Grimdark book, "Malfus: Necromancer Unchained". We learned about Casey's inspiration for his writing style, the near-death experience that was the catalyst to continue his writing, and some of his interests outside life as an author.
* Our featured music is from Indie Anthony with his song " Watching You Go".2023-09-1949 minMission Spooky108. Haunting the White House: Dead PresidentsIt's a Special Back to School Episode with our guest, history teacher, Ben Headlee! Today, we cover all the folks who passed away inside the White House and the ghosts that reportedly hang out there. Cord tells the story of a ghost train connected to one of our most famous Presidents.
* Our featured music is from Animal Wolf with the protest song "Fuck Those Supreme Court Bitches!" 2023-09-051h 05Mission Spooky107. Lake Erie : Cryptids, Ships and LegendsIn this episode, we visit the Great Lake of Erie. Join us as we discuss the future of the Erie Quadrangle, the cryptid known as Bessie, a haunted lighthouse, and a ton of shipwrecks!
*Our featured music is from Stella Prince with "Two Face".
*Our promo this week is for Serial Napper.
2023-08-221h 17
Mission SpookyInvestigation Techniques: Every Frog Has His DayToday we discuss frogs and toads and the crazy sounds these critters make. Do you know what to be aware of when the Spring Peeper stops peeping? Do you know some frogs sound like farm animals? Have you ever heard a Bull Frog SCREAM? Well, you're in for a treat today if you answered "no" to any of these questions!
* Why Investigation Techniques?
Tiktok and Youtube have grown into a disastrous mess of paranormal nonsense. Through these mediums, we have witnessed “investigators” run away from sounds that are made by everything from mundane wildlife to man-made machinery all...2023-08-1426 minMission Spooky106. Haunted Shores Volume 2We revisited the shores of the North Eastern US, looking for more spooky tales and legends. Join us as we unravel the murder mystery of a Maine lighthouse, delve into the tragedy of a cruise liner in Asbury Park, NJ, and discover a possible storm elemental in North Carolina. *Our featured music is from The Upfux with their song "Drowning".*Our promo this week is for Octoberpod, featuring narration from Cord.2023-08-081h 09Mission Spooky105. Haunted Campgrounds and ParksIn this episode we are joined by our good friend Logan Vo from Godzilla: Destroy All Podcasts and Lost Legends: Tales of Thurne to discuss some stories connected to National and State Parks - places where camping is available. Logan tells us a few spooky stories from his neck of the woods in Iowa, Cord recounts the tragic end of many a soldier's life in Gettysburg, PA and Kiki has a few tales from her favorite National Park, Acadia in Maine.
* Our featured music is from Cheem with their song " Snag".
2023-07-2552 minMission Spooky104. Haunted River and StreamToday, we take you on a tour of just a few rivers and streams said to hold ghostly ships, fallen passengers, and cursed land! Join us as we travel the Hudson River, The Brandywine River and ... somewhere in Alabama? JC didn't follow the instructions for this one ...
Our featured music is from Get 'em Wet with their single "Summertime Vibin".
Our promo this week is for Ignorance Was Bliss Podcast2023-07-1154 min
Mission Spooky103. Kord v Cryptid: The SnallygasterWelcome to the fifth installment of our DnD 5e Adventure Series, Kord Vs. Cryptid. Today, our resident pro-wrestler, Kord, will (possibly?) face off against the Flying Fiend of Frederick County, Maryland - The Snallygaster! Will he annihilate this tentacled mouth, dragon-bird, or will he sing a round of Weird Al and tell some Dad jokes? Find out NOW!
*
If you would like access to the art and stats for The Snallygaster, consider joining our Patreon at the $3 Tier. Your support helps us to collaborate with the great artists and musicians that make our podcast even...2023-07-021h 05Mission Spooky102. Haunted Hikes of the BerkshiresToday we’re focusing on haunted hikes and trails of the Berkshires of Massachusettes! We have compiled a list of what we think are the most compelling and historically significant locations, which can be easily visited on a long weekend tour. Listen as we get into eight of the best paranormal and gorgeous Berkshire locations.
Our featured music today is from Summer Woods with her song,
"When I Fall".
References:
Henry David Thoreau
https://www.biography.com/writer/henry-david-thoreau
Godfrey Greylock's Book
ht...2023-06-131h 04Mission Spooky101. Haunted Lakes of Pennsylvania Vol. 1We dive ... into some of the legends and lore surrounding a handful of the "most haunted" lakes in Pennsylvania and a bonus creepy water feature in NY.
Our featured music is from Hallowed Hearts with their song "Ruin"2023-06-011h 03Mission Spooky100. An Interview with Director/Writer George PopovWe were delighted to have writer-director George Popov join us for our 100th episode! George is known for the critically acclaimed Indie horror film Hex (2017), The Droving (2020), and the atmospheric docuseries that captured our attention: SIDEWORLD. George talks with Kiki, Cord, and JC about the SIDEWORLD series of folklore, myth, and legend as a whole which now includes 'Haunted Forests of England', ' Terrors of the Sea', and 'Damnation Village'. Our featured music today is by Philadelphia band Flatwaves with their song "Mothman".
2023-05-231h 01Mission Spooky99. The Snallygaster with Ben HeadleeToday, we take on the infamous Crytpid, The Snallygaster with our special guest and DM of Kord v. Crytpid, Ben! The Snallygaster is a legendary cryptid that is said to inhabit the rural areas of Maryland, in the United States. The creature is described as a dragon-like beast with a long pointed beak, wings, and tentacles or octopus-like appendages. It has been reported to prey on livestock and humans alike and is said to emit a blood-curdling scream that can be heard from miles away. The legend of the Snallygaster dates back to the 18th century and has inspired...2023-05-0258 min
Life Well-LivedHow to Conquer Emotional Eating with Kiki Athanas#47: In this episode, I interviewed Kiki Athanas, an intuitive eating coach who helps smart women conquer emotional eating and practice healthy, balanced eating with consistency and ease - even in the face of life’s many challenges.
We discuss Kiki’s own relationship with food, how to conquer your cravings and get off the non-stop hamster wheel of thinking about food, why men seem to have the best relationship with food and so much more. Kiki not only dropped so much knowledge in this interview, but she had me laughing the entire time too. I hope you enjo...2023-03-221h 01Mission Spooky95. The Gnadenhutten Massacre: Racial Bias, Disinformation and DeathI suppose you could call this our Very Special Episode. The topic of Gnadenhutten is apropos considering the Implicit Cultural Bias and Overt Racism that have come across our media screens this week. Kiki takes us on a journey to where it all started and gets into the down and dirty of how our country was founded on the manipulation of these biases that will ultimately lead to the most horrific massacre of the Revolutionary War.
* Our featured music today is from Gen and the Degenerates with their song " Runaway Blues".2023-03-0840 minMission Spooky92. Bones, Ben Franklin and the Bishop White HouseWe are back with the first episode of Season 4!
Today, Kiki sets a few terrible internet memes straight with stories of bone whips and bones found in the London home of our favorite founding father, Ben Franklin. Then, we take a stop off at the Philadelphia residence of Bishop White with ghosts and possible medical malpractice!
Our featured music today is from Serpent Church with their song " wolves + arrows". 2023-02-071h 00
Mission SpookyParanormal Dungeon: The Zombie StompWelcome to the Paranormal Dungeon!
In this Dungeons and Dragons Meets Real World episode.
JC researched "real-life" zombies and compared them to the Dungeons and Dragons equivalent. Kiki added information from anthropological, spiritual, and ethnographic points of view as well as some important pointers and ideas for how to use zombies in your next DnD game.
Music today was provided by Psykotic Refuge. If you need pod-safe or Twitch-safe music, you can find Psykotic Refuge on Bandcamp.2022-11-3045 minMission Spooky89. The Dover Demon and Ghost Stories with Paul BestallIn this episode, we are joined by the fantastic Paul Bestall of the Mysteries and Monsters Podcast. His chosen topic is the Eastern US cryptid, The Dover Demon! We asked Paul to regale us with some ghost stories from the area of Kiki's ancestry: Bradford, England. Paul can also be found on Ghost Story Guys.
Our featured music in the episode comes from LA-based Fleischkrieg with their song, "Owl Light".
* William Bartlett's Original drawing can be found on Wikipedia.
* John Baxter and his drawing of the Dover Demon.2022-11-201h 36
Mission SpookyBonus Bite: Last MealsHappy Halloween! Join JC, Cord, and Kiki for a special bonus episode dedicated to the Last Meals of those on Death Row.
Music provided by Loyalty Free Music " Hello Michael!"2022-10-3143 minMission Spooky88. The Cincinnati Witch WarsIn this episode, Cord and Kiki take on a Patreon-requested topic of the Witch Wars of Cincinnati. There are stories of possible poisoning, a sick child, and marriage destroyed by the paranormal! Our featured music is from Morgan Clea with her song, "Wilder Things".
* Order Cincinnati Curiosities by Greg Hand.
* Smell of Fear Candles2022-10-3151 min
Mission Spooky85. Ghosts of New Hope Pennsylvania with Tour Guide Scott RandolphWe begin Spooky Season 2022 by welcoming Operator and Tour Guide for Ghosts Tours of New Hope, Scott Randolph. Scott chronicles the history of the Ghost Tours of New Hope and shares some spine-tingling stories from founder Adi-Kent Thomas Jeffries and some of his own ghostly encounters in this quaint village located on the Deleware River.
You can book a tour at their website here.
Kiki recommends you begin your reading journey of Adi-Kent Thomas Jeffries books here.
Our featured music is from New York band, Pageant Girls with their song "Fortune Teller"2022-10-051h 03
Mission SpookySoil Sessions: CarrotsToday we're talking about carrots. Cord and Kiki discuss growing them in the fall for Zone 6B, Kiki's greenhouse experiment with carrots, cultivars, and varieties as well as the magical properties, history, and recipes of carrots. Music provided by Serge Quadrado entitled "Mystical Thing" (License CC4.0)2022-09-1642 min
Mission SpookyParanormal Dungeon: The Ghost in YouWelcome to the Paranormal Dungeon!
In this Dungeons and Dragons Meets Real World episode
JC will research a real-life paranormal entity and compare it to the Dungeons and Dragons equivalent.
Today, JC decides whether to take on a real ghost or the DnD version. Kiki focuses on bending the rules a bit for good gameplay and we end on some interesting ways to incorporate ghosts into your next campaign.
Music today was provided by Psykotic Refuge. If you need podsafe or Twitch-safe music, you can find Psykotic Refuge on Bandcamp.2022-06-0128 min
Mission SpookyBonus Bite: US Congressional Hearing on UFOs : Nothingburger or Nah?JC and Kiki break down the US Congressional Hearing on UFOs from Tuesday, May 17th, 2022.2022-05-1837 min
Mission SpookySoil Sessions : PeppersToday we're talking about peppers, especially the Superhots! We get into growing them indoors for Zone 6B, how to harden them off (the right way!), Kiki's past mistakes (learning experiences) with peppers, and a special guest stops by! We also get into the magical properties and some spells that peppers are used in. Check out our Instagram for more info on what peppers Kiki will be growing and our TikTok for videos on how the greenhouse is coming along.
Music provided by Serge Quadrado entitled "Mystical Thing" (License CC4.0)2022-03-1539 min
Mission SpookySoil Sessions: January Planting and PansiesWelcome to our first Soil Session, a segment dedicated to gardening and the magic of plants! In our inaugural episode, Cord and Kiki introduce you to their gardens and indoor setups, discuss what seeds you can start indoors and outdoors in late January if you are in Zone 6B and Kiki gives you some in-depth information on the Pansy.
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Music provided by Serge Quadrado entitled "Mystical Thing" (License CC4.0)2022-01-2556 min
Mission Spooky66. The Curse of Tutankhamun: Death Comes on Swift WingsToday, Kiki brings you the perspective of an archaeologist when it comes to mummy curses. Our emphasis will be on the life and times of Howard Carter, Lord Carnarvon, and Author Weigall and the rivalries both imagined and real that set this "curse" in motion! And there is also Aleister Crowley ...
Our Promo is for Scottish Murders.
Our Musical Guest is Larlene with their song "Chamomile".
Special music provided by farzadweb.com2021-11-201h 22
Mission Spooky62. Haunted Theaters of Pennsylvania: Fake It 'til You Make It?In today's episode, Kiki does some deep-dive research into the supposed hauntings of Oyster Mill Playhouse and discusses other locations including the Pittsburgh Playhouse and the Fulton Theater.
Our podcast promo is for Octoberpod. Our musical guest is Antipole with the song, "Here I Am" available on Bandcamp. Our special promo is for the Ghoulish Garb Etsy store, home of the Terror Tarot!2021-10-111h 16
Mission SpookyBonus Bite: Addressing the Word "Spooky"In light of some questions about the word" spooky", and especially due to an erroneous Newsweek article that was lambasted for misleading content, Kiki explains the word's origins and the racist use of the word "spook". We also highly suggest listening to One Mic Podcast on the Harlem Hellfighters from WWI and the treatment of Black Vets after every single US War they fought in.
One Mic Harlem Hellfighters https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bB7j0OBfCzDvzyLjNeu6Q
One MIc The Attack on Black Veterans https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WyCgsThj3K7lyyVntRjmG2021-05-2404 min
Mission SpookyBonus Bite: WandaVision and the Use of RunesOur local Heathen, Kiki, gives you the breakdown and the lowdown on Marvel's use of sigils and runes in the WandaVision series.
Thanks to our musical guest, PsyKotic Refuge for their song Thunderous Resolve from their album Heroes of Tyr. You can find all of their music on Bandcamp.2021-03-1114 minMission Spooky49. Haunted Military Bases of Japan Part IWe travel outside Pennsylvania for a special 2 part Military hauntings project! In this episode, we delve into the cave systems of Yokosuka Naval Base and Atsugi Naval Command Center.
*NOTE: Forgive Kiki for pronouncing Yokosuka incorrectly! Her pronunciation came from the internet and apparently it was wrong!
Our Musical guest for this episode is the Ukrainian metal band, Vovkulaka with their song, "Defy" (Used with permission.) Vovkulaka is available on:
Spotify
Youtube
2021-03-0240 minMission Spooky48. The Van Meter Visitor with Logan VoKiki and Cord are joined by podcaster Logan Vo to talk about the Iowa cryptid, The Van Meter Visitor!
Our musical guest is Slomo Sapiens with their song "Jeepers Creeper" (used with permission)
You can find Slomo Sapiens music on:
Bandcamp
Spotify
Logan joins us from:
Lost Legends: Tales of Thurne
Sleep With the Light On
Godzilla: Destroy All Podcasts
2021-02-1630 minMission Spooky47. Wolf Castle and Spooky UkraineJoin JC and Kiki as they go outside PA for a special episode dedicated to Ukraine! Our musical guest Vovkulaka inspired us to delve into the past of Dubiecki Manor.
Note: If you hear Kiki say "The" Ukraine, just know that we call it the proper "Ukraine" since February 24, 2022.
Slava Ukraine and consider donating to Flaming Beacon.
Please check out the paranormal investigation done there by Vovkulaka themselves!
Our Musical Guest is Vovkulaka with their song "Purple Door" (used with permission). You can find Vovkulaka on:
Spotify
Youtube
2021-02-0233 min
Wait For It... | A Legendary PodcastS1 E14 - Zip Zip Zip with Cody & KikiCody and Kiki join me this week to discuss Zip Zip Zip! So many questions... Why is it such a big deal to pee in front of another human? What is that painting in Robin's apartment? Why is the episode called "Zip Zip Zip"? We discuss all of this and more!
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app2020-12-2855 minMission Spooky44. Ghosts of Christmas PastWe have a PSA from our non-profit partner, Access BC
Join JC, Cord, and Kiki for a special look at Christmas ghosts from British Columbia, California, and England.
Our musical guest is Hauntress with their song " Now Here" (used with permission)
You can find music by Hauntress on:
Bandcamp
Spotify
Links for this Episode:
The Mistletoe Bough
Ghost Story Guys Episode 100
Lost Legends: Tales of Thurne (Formally Roll 4 Damage)
Encounter Party
2020-12-2242 minMission Spooky43. Weird Christmas Volume 2Join JC, Kiki, and Cord for a very special (actually half the audio got lost and we had to redo stuff for ya!) Christmas Holiday episode! We're covering such things as Roller Skating to Mass in Caracas and Christmas Werewolves and Witches!
Our Musical Guest today is Pinkshift with their song (used with permission) " I'm Gonna Tell My Therapist on You!"
You can follow Pinkshift on Instagram and find their music on:
Bandcamp
Spotify
2020-12-0836 minMission Spooky40. Tyler Strand: Hellier ReduxWe let Tyler Strand loose in our studio and this is the result! We talk off-screen answers to some of JC and Kiki's concerns about Hellier season 2, as well as touching on Cryptids, Bigfoot, and a story you'll hear here first - maybe?
Our Promotion this week is for Hunted: Encore!
Our Podcast Promo is for Reverie True Crime
Our suggestions from this podcast are:
Traveling Museum of the Paranormal & Occult
Planet Weird -
Bigfoot in Pennsylvania by Timothy Renner
Kecksburg UFO Incident
Spirits of the Stanley
2020-10-272h 21Mission Spooky39. Haunted Forests Volume 1Today we take on some haunted forests in the NE United States and one forest that Kiki feels should NOT be on the list!
Our Promo today is for Hunted: Encore!
Our Podcast Promo is for What the Suck Podcast.
Our musical guest today is Unveil from Quebec, Canada with their song " Burn" (Used with permission). You can find Unveil's music on:
Youtube
Spotify
Bandcamp
2020-10-2044 minMission Spooky37. Amusement Park MadnessIn this special episode of Mission Spooky - Kiki, Cord, and JC take on some of the spookier elements of amusement parks around the nation. They cover Disney, Action Park, Dorney Park, Six Flags NJ, and a corpse in a haunted ride in California.
Our podcast promo this week is for Frigay the 13th
Our musical guest this week is Zagreus with their song " Possessor" (used with permission) . You can find all of Zagreus' music on:
Bandcamp
Spotify
Our shout-outs today go to :
Encounter Party Podcast
Tales of Thurne (formally Roll4Damage)
Slee...2020-10-061h 07Mission SpookyMIssion Spooky TrailerWelcome to Mission Spooky! Kiki, JC, and Cord have ghost stories, horrific history, horror reviews, magic, myths, legends and a TTRPG segment Kord vs Cryptid! 2020-07-2001 minMission Spooky29. Harriet Tubman, The Underground Railroad and Belmont MansionWe're back from our two-week hiatus! Today, Kiki focuses on some African American history in Philadelphia with a brief history of Harriet Tubman, conductors and allies' stories from the Underground Railroad, and the history and haunting of Belmont Mansion - the location of the Underground Railroad Museum. Some of our information comes directly from the Museum website where you can donate if you wish https://www.belmontmansion.org
For further reading, we suggest:
Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom by Catherine Clinton
Underground Railroad Records by William Still (available to read for free on Google Books).
2020-06-1625 minMission Spooky27. General Wayne: Drunken Adventure, Battles and BonesIn this episode, JC takes on a quarantine experiment involving Mead from Stonekeep Meadery, while Kiki enjoys a nice Vanilla Porter from Breckenridge Brewery. Together we talk about the courageous Pennsylvania General, "Mad" Anthony Wayne, his most famous battle - The Taking of Stoney Point - the odd way in which his burial was conducted, and the haunted inn named after him.
Our musical guest is Three Irma Louise with their song "Bones" (used under CC License 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/)
2020-05-1237 minMission Spooky24. Sleep Paralysis and Haunted HousesJC and Kiki welcome guest Cord to the studio where he discusses his issues with sleep paralysis and shadow people as well as a spooky story or two from the house he grew up in.
Our featured music is from Rob Whisenhunt with the song "Castles in Ashes".
2020-04-2153 minMission Spooky22. Hawk Mountain: Curses, Killers and WendigoJC and Kiki tell the tales of the infamous Hawk Mountain, a globally known and first-class bird sanctuary that is on cursed land, was once home to a deranged killer, and the more recent stories of skinwalkers and wendigo. Kiki sifts through all the muck - from previous owners to death bed confessions and discusses the First People's Tribe, The Delaware/Lenni Lenape, and the legendary creatures that may be haunting the forests still.
Our featured music is from Angela French with " Feel Something".
References for this episode:
Hawks Aloft Paid Link
2020-03-311h 07Mission Spooky21. The King George Inn, Allentown : Crossroads and Crying BabiesIn today's episode, JC and Kiki discuss the historic building known as the King George Inn, a previous bar and restaurant now owned by a private firm and awaiting new construction. The building has been known for the Crying Baby Well, the spirit of Suicide Charlie and possibly a few others ghosts hanging out since the mid 1700's.
Podcast Promo: It's Murder Up North
Our featured music is The Whelming Waters with their song "The Whisky Song"
2020-03-2453 minMission Spooky20. Shadow PeopleJC tells his terrifying tale of a shadow being that followed him home from a cemetery. Kiki talks about the possibility of ancient Egyptians understanding the shadow as a separate entity.
Our Promo today is from Happy Hour Gets Weird.
Our Featured Music is from SAVAK called "Alive in Shadows" from the live session on the Evan Davies Show in 2016 and was used under CC License 4.0
2020-03-171h 17Mission Spooky19: Ghosts 101The professor is in! JC and Kiki take you back to school for Ghosts 101 and delve into how several cultures view the afterlife and ghosts.
Our Podcast Promo this week is for the Happy Hour Gets Weird
Our featured music is from Tigerberry with their song "Dead Bodies" and is used under CC License 3
2020-03-1054 minMission Spooky18. Imaginary FriendJC and Kiki welcome guest Ally to the studio where she tells her spooky tales about a Moravian Church in Hellertown, Pennsylvania, a ghost of a child that may have taken on the role of her imaginary friend, and the ghost that walks the halls of her apartment in Whitehall, PA.
Our featured music is from Foghorn Lonesome with the song " We Are All Alone in the End"
2020-02-2548 minMission Spooky17. Grip the Raven: Nevermore?We're back with another Listener Picked Topic for Peculiar PA, JC, and Kiki discuss Grip the Raven located in the Philadelphia Free Library. Added stories in this episode are Marcus Valerius Corvus and Pliny the Elder's story of the Raven of Rome.
Our featured music is from the band Deuxvolt with their song "Dance With Ghosts" and was used under Creative Commons Licensing 4.0
2020-02-1837 minMission Spooky16. Lupercalia Vs. Valentine's Day: All Is Fair in Love & WhippingJoin JC and Kiki on a short trip through Roman and British history as they tackle the ancient festival of Lupercalia and the origins of Valentine's Day.
Our featured music is from Rob Whisenhunt with his song "Bleed 4 U".
2020-02-1137 minMission Spooky15. Grumblethorpe: The General, The Little Girl and the Black Swirl.Join JC and Kiki on a historical, haunted journey of the #Germantown jewel known as Grumblethorpe! With a bloodstained floor and the heartbreaking story of a young girl, Grumblethorpe is steeped in both history and paranormal events.
Addendum: After this episode, we came across a letter that was written by Alexander Andrew, General Agnew's servant, in which he clearly states that Agnew was killed by a volley of gunfire and NOT by a lone sniper, Hans Boyer.
The song “Pennsylvania” by The Monitors / The New Monitors was used under Creative Commons Licensing 3.0 Their album...2020-02-0444 minMission Spooky14. The Goblin of Easton: Who Wants to Summon Ghob!JC and Kiki unpack the local legend of the Goblin of Easton and its religious overtones.
Our featured music is from Bad Custer featuring their unreleased song “Tiny Man”.
2020-01-2947 minMission Spooky13. The Cave of Kelpius: You Chose PoorlyJoin JC and Kiki as they tackle the "doomsday death cult" of Johannes Kelpius and his mysterious "cave" located in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.
Our featured music is from Rob Whisenhunt with his song "Trainwreck" .
2020-01-2135 minMission Spooky12. Hellier Season 2 Review: Strand-edJoin JC and Kiki as they break down #Hellier Season 2 and talk about the unstoppable force that is Tyler Strand!
Our featured music is from Foghorn Lonesome with the song "Svea"
2020-01-1459 minMission Spooky11. Graeme Park: Where Hauntings & UFO's ConvergeWelcome to 2020 and our new format! Kiki and a special guest bring you information on Graeme Park and the now-defunct Willow Grove Naval Air Base. This area has a bit of everything from a haunted house to glowing green balls of light to multiple UFO sightings.
Our featured music is from Forget the Whale with their song "Man Outta Town"
2020-01-0747 minMission Spooky9. Weird XMasJoin JC and Kiki as they delve into some strange Christmas customs from around the globe and close to home and also answer the age old question of who would win in a fight - Santa Claus or the ultimate baddy team up of Gryla, Krampus and Belsnickle. It's going to be the "shit".
2019-12-1748 minMission Spooky8: Gryla and Her Family: Move Over Krampus ...JC and Kiki talk about the bad bitch in all of the folklore - Gryla the Yule Witch! Listen as Kiki completely destroys the names of the 13 Yule Lads (someone is getting their askur stolen this year!) and gives mention to the first member of the Fashion Police - The Yule Cat.
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Special shout out to our dearly departed friend, Greyson Wolf - please consider giving to one of our preferred charities in his name.
Wolf Sanctuary of PA
Lakota Wolf Preserve
Howling Woods Farm
2019-12-1044 minMission Spooky7. The Squonk: Puddles and BubblesJoin JC and Kiki as we take on the legendary PA cryptid ... The Squonk! We also discuss evidence collected by New Zealand geneticist, Dr. Neill Gammel concerning Nessie and answer some listener questions.
2019-12-0323 minMission Spooky6. Haunted Roads of Pennsylvania Vol 1: Cannibals, Demon Dogs and The Grim YankeeJoin JC and Kiki as they travel two "haunted" PA roads, Constitution Dr. in Allentown, PA, and Dark Hollow Rd. in Warwick Township, Bucks County. Kiki breaks down the geography, folk tales, and history of each location. By the end of this episode, you’ll know what is fake, and what could be real based on historical facts.
References for this episode:
William DeFalco and his YouTube Channel, Cryptids and Monsters. We recommend his video on Constitution Drive
"Ghosts in the Valley" by Adi Kent-Smith
2019-11-1953 minMission Spooky5: Ouija Boards: Fake, Real and Thoroughly Confused.Join Kiki and JC as they fumble through Ouija Boards! Are they real? Are they fake? Who knows! They're not going to sugar coat this one! From people walking in on them while they were recording, to dogs (all rescue) barking for no reason, they had challenges to overcome! But, they managed to salvage it! .
2019-11-1229 minMission Spooky1. Black Horse Tavern: Hail to the KingThe Black Horse was a 1920s speakeasy run by the coal country mafia known as the Men of Montedoro. Today, the Black Horse is haunted by the spirit of Saverio Damiano - a young Mafiosi cut down by rival gang members. All investigations say that Damiano's murder was unsolved but Kiki plunges into some heavy research and finds this is not only inaccurate but that the Mafia has a way of working things out within itself!
Thanks to Juanitos for their song "Strange Italian Song" (CC BY) which can be heard in our outro.
2019-10-1540 minMission SpookyMeet the Mission Spooky Hosts! (2023)Welcome Spooky Cats and Kittens! We've updated our Meet the Hosts episode for new listeners. Since JC and Kiki introduced Mission Spooky, we've added more segments and another host, Cord. Get to know a bit more about all three of us - favorite films, best day ever, celebrity crush, you know, all the normal stuff you want to know about your new favorite podcast hosts.
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Mission Spooky theme song is created and mixed by Kiki.
In order of appearance:
Creepy Music Box by Mr_KeybOred Freesound.org (Modified)
Crow Ca...2019-10-0858 min