Prepare yourself for an episode that will make you question the world around you. Have you ever wondered about the spine-chilling scream from "The Exorcist" or why homicide is the leading cause of death for pregnant women? This episode of Strange, Strange Beyond, Insane is packed with unsettling discoveries, from the eerie history of CPR dummies modeled after a deceased girl to the bizarre nature of teratoma tumors. Our journey doesn't stop there, as we confront the grim realities of airborne mortality and face the terrifying truths behind bear attacks and the Titanic's tragic fate.

The ocean's depths hide more than just marine life; they conceal dangers and mysteries that defy understanding. Hear a harrowing tale of a near-death encounter with a Hawaiian rip current and learn about the formidable creatures lurking beneath the waves, like the anglerfish and bigfin squid. The episode also reveals the enigmatic Bermuda Triangle and the spectral tales of the British Museum—a reminder of how the ocean's vastness mirrors the boundless nature of the unknown. Immerse yourself in these maritime stories that challenge the boundaries of reality and myth.

Uncover chilling Appalachian superstitions, which paint a haunting picture of the region's folklore. From the eerie advice to avoid whistling in the woods to the cryptic warnings about pursuing entities, these tales hold the keys to understanding a world steeped in mystery. We'll also explore bizarre urban legends and disturbing realities, such as medical errors and rogue black holes, blending science with spectral stories that blur the line between fact and fiction. Conclude your eerie journey by connecting with us on social media, where you can share your own spine-tingling stories or become part of our show.

Send us a text

Support the show

What lies at the crossroads of paranormal phenomena, true crime, and the quirkiest of human experiences? That's the essence of "Strange Deranged Beyond Insane." I invite you to join me, Melissa, as we wander through the vibrant tapestry of our podcast's eclectic identity. Throughout this episode, I champion our commitment to creative freedom, defying the pressure to fit within narrow genres. With a little help from AI-generated insights and podcast analytics, I reveal how we keep the content as bizarre and varied as our ever-curious listeners. Our recognition by platforms like Listen Notes and Good Pods is a testament to the alluring chaos that defines our show.

But our journey doesn't end with the strange and unusual. We venture further into the profound connections between podcasting and music therapy, exploring their potential to engage and heal. Sharing tales from my own path into podcasting—rooted in storytelling and Michigan-based narratives—I offer a glimpse into the transformative power of music therapy, tracing its historical roots back to Eloise Hospital. This episode also tackles the delicate balance between creativity and mental health, highlighting personal stories and the importance of self-awareness. Together, we navigate the complexities of creative minds, mental health, and the shared nostalgia of music, inviting listeners to reflect on their own unique journeys.

Send us a text

Support the show

Picture this: a man in Washington discovers he's not the biological father of his son, all because of a rare genetic condition called chimerism. It's a mind-boggling story that challenges our understanding of paternity and DNA testing. We journey through the perplexing mysteries of genetics, touching on cases like Lydia Fairchild's, where DNA tests threw her entire life into question. These stories raise significant questions about the reliability of DNA testing and what it truly means for crime investigations and our personal privacy.

Next on our exploration list is the bizarre world of Sharkano, a volcano where sharks thrive in boiling, acidic waters. We unravel the fascinating tales of creatures surviving in harsh environments, pondering if humans could ever adapt similarly. As we navigate the intriguing cultural stories from the local Gatoke and Vanguru people who hold deep connections to the volcano, we also ponder the ethical complexities surrounding celebrity allegations, weaving humor into discussions about fame's darker side. From the mythical to the celebrity intrigue, we bring a mix of science, culture, and a touch of skepticism to the table.

Our adventure doesn’t stop there! We take a lighthearted detour into the mysterious world of drones in New Jersey and their rumored extraterrestrial connections. This leads to a comical yet thought-provoking discussion about paranormal hotspots like Skinwalker Ranch, peppered with personal anecdotes, including an unexpected meeting with a witch at a convenience store. As we navigate these strange stories, we reflect on the quirks of our world, from unexpected legal battles and Vatican traditions to frustrations with the healthcare system. Join us as we blend the eerie with the everyday in an episode packed with strange tales and curious questions.

Send us a text

Support the show

What could possibly drive a person to commit unspeakable acts during the season of joy and giving? Join us for a chilling journey through the darker corners of Christmas as we unravel the haunting mysteries behind infamous holiday-time murders. We begin with the chilling tale of the Covina Massacre of 2008, where Bruce Jeffrey Pardo, hidden behind a Santa costume, unleashed a nightmare upon a festive gathering. As we recount the events, we dive into the possible psychological triggers that might transform the joyous holiday season into a time of rage and violence.

Our exploration doesn't stop there. We navigate the unsettling history of the Lawson family murders of 1929, dissecting the possible motives that drove Charlie Lawson to commit such an atrocious act against his kin. From financial woes to whispered rumors of a head injury, we speculate on the factors that could push someone over the edge. With insights from a psychiatrist, we delve into the psychological motivations behind holiday violence while shedding light on the bizarre aftermath, including a murder scene turned into a macabre museum. Together with my co-host Carissa, we share personal anecdotes about the holiday stress, tying it all together with a mix of grim fascination and humor.

But the episode also embraces the whimsical side of Christmas folklore. We wander through the mystical realm of European legends, meeting the mischievous Yule Lads of Iceland and the fearsome Frau Perchta of the Alpine regions. From Hans Trapp to the Kalikantzaroi, these tales bring a stark contrast to the softer, commercialized traditions familiar to many. Our conversation leads into the pagan origins of modern Christmas customs and how they were adapted over time by Christian missionaries. With a blend of whimsy and horror, we reflect on how these stories continue to captivate our imaginations, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of holiday rituals.

Send us a text

Support the show

Ever wondered if a robot could replace your hairstylist or even belt out an Elton John tune? Meet Tom, a traveler from Australia who interacts with Hamica, a humanoid robot with uncanny conversational skills. As Hamica crafts a haiku and serenades with a song, I, your host Melissa, share my personal apprehension about robots encroaching on jobs that hinge on human touch, like hairstyling. We unravel the mesmerizing yet unsettling abilities of robots to mimic human interaction, stirring curiosity and concern.

From there, we thrust into the thrilling and daunting world of superintelligent AI. Reflecting on insights from luminaries like Stephen Hawking, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk, we grapple with the possibilities of AI not just matching, but surpassing human intellect. The controversial claims from an OpenAI employee about achieving AGI ignite discussions about the implications of AI performing human-like tasks. We challenge you to weigh the risks and rewards of this technological frontier: is it a path we should fear, or one to embrace? Join us in this contemplative exploration of how AI might redefine our world.

Send us a text

Support the show

Have you ever wondered what it takes to keep the eerie magic of Stephen King's universe alive? Join me, Melissa, as I share my excitement and the emotional rollercoaster of waiting for the much-anticipated HBO Max series "Welcome to Derry." After navigating through the maze of production delays and misinformation, the official trailer has finally hit the screens, setting the stage for what promises to be a chilling winter release in 2025. As I pour my heart into crafting each podcast episode outline, I draw inspiration from re-watching horror classics like "Doctor Sleep" and "The Shining." These films not only enhance my collection but also reignite the thrill of experiencing them in stunning 4K quality on the big screen.

As the episode unfolds, we venture into the haunting narrative of "Doctor Sleep," where Dan Torrance must confront his past and forge a powerful psychic alliance with young Abra Stone. Together, they face the sinister True Knot, immortal psychic nomads in pursuit of Abra's extraordinary powers. With Mike Flanagan at the helm, "Doctor Sleep" both honors the legacy of "The Shining" and stakes its own claim in the horror genre. I also take a moment to appreciate Flanagan's other masterpieces, like "The Haunting of Hill House" and "Midnight Mass," before setting the mood for a spine-tingling watch of "The Watchers" during the witching hour. Get ready for a thrilling episode filled with horror reflections and the anticipation of stepping once more into the twisted world of Derry.

Send us a text

Support the show

What happens when you live in a haunted condo and capture more than just dust on camera? Join us and Kristina, our fearless co-host, as we unravel ghostly escapades and unexpected orbs that have mystified even seasoned skeptics. As Kristina shares her eerie experiences, we also uncover the unexpected drama that often lurks in the shadows of the paranormal community. Contrary to stereotypes, it's the male investigators whose egos sometimes ignite these conflicts, sparking both laughter and reflection as we navigate these unusual dynamics.

Together, we explore how the same ambition that drives paranormal investigators can lead to both camaraderie and competition. Kristina's fresh perspective, as someone transitioning from a personal paranormal experiencer to a formal investigator, highlights the joys and pitfalls of this fascinating world. Amidst tales of envy and unshared evidence, we spotlight the friendships that form the backbone of any great ghost hunt. With each eerie trip and ghostly encounter, our bond grows stronger, complete with humorous mishaps that only add to our shared stories.

The episode takes an emotional turn as we address the impact of loss and the renewed zest for exploration it inspires. Future adventures beckon as we plan road trips to haunted historical sites like the Roff House and Gettysburg. Alongside these plans, the revelation of Mackinac Island's witch trial history adds a compelling twist to our itinerary. Through it all, our passion for connecting with a global audience and sharing these spine-tingling tales remains unwavering, shining through the chaos and drama that sometimes accompany the paranormal pursuit.

Send us a text

Support the show

Can justice ever truly be served by taking the law into your own hands? Join us as we unravel the intense story of Jason Vukovic, known as the Alaskan Avenger, who became a vigilante against sex offenders after enduring his own childhood nightmare. Melissa, your host, teams up with Carissa to dissect the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding Vukovic's actions, from his violent path of vengeance to his current advocacy for counseling over retaliation. This episode takes you on a journey through Vukovic's past, revealing the harrowing abuse he suffered and the brutal attacks he carried out, prompting us to question the limits of justice and the role of personal retribution.

Throughout this gripping discussion, we reflect on the societal responsibilities towards victims of abuse and the complexities of punishment and redemption. Carissa, who initially brought this topic into the light, shares her unvarnished insights, helping us navigate through the emotional and psychological scars left by Vukovic's experiences. With new revelations about Vukovic’s transformation in prison, the conversation challenges conventional views on rehabilitation and vigilantism, leaving listeners to ponder the delicate balance between justice and revenge. Tune in for a thought-provoking analysis that pushes the boundaries of traditional discourse on crime and punishment.

Send us a text

Support the show