What is CE-5?

What is CE-5? What does it stand for? How do you do it? Are there benefits or risks? As some of you may remember Jessiy talked about this on a previous episode, so here are some answers to these question in case you missed the episode. What is CE-5? CE-5 stands for Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind. J Alan Hynek created the classifications for different ufo and Extraterrestrial contact and sightings. Close encounters of the first kind is when you see a craft or ufo in the sky. Close encounters of the second kind is when you see evidence of it or physical proof such as a crop circle or radiation. Close encounters of the third kind is not just an amazing movie, but it stands for when you see the occupants of the ufo outside of the ufo. Close encounters of the fourth kind is when someone is taken aboard an extra terrestrial craft. Close encounters of the fifth kind is human initiated contact. When humans try to contact extra terrestrials. Dr Steven Greer coined that term back in the 70;s.

How do you do a CE-5? Dr Steven Greer created these protocols for humans to try an contact our star brothers and sisters. There is an app called CE-5 that you can download onto your phone or computer and there are steps to follow as well as photos and videos that show examples of real contact. There are also examples of what satellites look like or meteors so there is no confusion as to if you are seeing a ufo or not. There is also a messaging section so people can network and find others that live in their area so you can form your own CE5 group. Each group does their CE5’s differently. So find the right group of people for you and give it a try.

The benefits of doing CE5s are plenty. You can end up seeing some amazing things you did not think possible. People have been healed at CE5 events. People form unbreakable bonds with each other and with other non human entities. The best advice that Jessiy has is to not have fear. Would you want to be around people that are scared of you? Probably not. If you start doing CE5s make sure you are ready and do not have fear just in case you are joined by a being that is not human. If you would like more information on this topic the film Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind is a great place to start. Good luck and have a fun.

The anniversary of “The Exorcist”

Today in history, we celebrate the release of “The Exorcist” March 16th 1973

In the dimly lit corridors of cinematic history, "The Exorcist" emerged as a spine-chilling masterpiece, a tale of demonic possession that transcended the silver screen. Yet, beneath the veneer of terror, the film's production was marked by an eerie series of events that seemed to echo the supernatural horrors depicted in its frames.

The Birth of a Cinematic Nightmare: In the early 1970s, director William Friedkin brought William Peter Blatty's novel "The Exorcist" to life, weaving a narrative that delved into the realms of faith, fear, and the demonic. As the cameras rolled, the set itself became an atmospheric cauldron, with unsettling incidents and unexplained occurrences casting an ominous shadow over the production.

The Macabre Specter of Death: Regrettably, the making of "The Exorcist" was marred by a series of untimely deaths that seemed to mirror the film's ominous themes. Actress Ellen Burstyn suffered a painful back injury during a possessed scene, mirroring the torment of her character. The unsettling synchronicity extended to other cast and crew members who faced unexpected health issues during filming.

The Tragic Demise of Jack MacGowran: The most poignant chapter of this dark tale unfolded with the death of Jack MacGowran, who portrayed Burke Dennings in the film. MacGowran's life met a premature end due to complications from influenza. His passing cast a somber pall over the set, leaving an indelible mark on the production and creating an unsettling connection between reality and the film's supernatural narrative.

The Exorcist's Curse or Coincidence?: While these incidents unfolded, speculation arose about a purported curse attached to the film. Some saw the eerie events as more than mere coincidence, attributing them to the inherently unsettling nature of the subject matter. Others dismissed the notion, viewing the unfortunate events as tragic happenstance.

Sources:

1. "The Exorcist" (1973) - Directed by William Friedkin: The film itself stands as a primary source for its impact on audiences and its cultural significance.

2. Various Interviews and Documentaries: Insights into the production challenges and the occurrences on set can be found in interviews with cast and crew, as well as documentaries about the making of "The Exorcist."

While the supernatural aura surrounding the production of "The Exorcist" remains the subject of debate, its legacy as a cinematic masterpiece endures, leaving audiences both terrorized and captivated by the blurred lines between fiction and reality.

The Pheonix Lights

In the vast expanse of the Arizona sky, a celestial spectacle unfolded on that fateful night of March 13, 1997, etching the mysterious tale of the Phoenix Lights into the pages of extraterrestrial lore.

The Extraterrestrial Ballet: As dusk settled over Phoenix, the unsuspecting city became the stage for a cosmic ballet. Witnesses gazed upward, their eyes transfixed by a formation of inexplicable lights that materialized in the night sky. A parade of orbs, arranged in a seemingly purposeful V-shaped pattern, silently glided across the heavens, leaving an indelible mark on the collective imagination.

The ethereal glow of the Phoenix Lights cast an otherworldly radiance, illuminating the Arizona horizon in a display that defied terrestrial explanation. Silent and majestic, the lights traversed the night, captivating onlookers who strained their eyes to fathom the celestial enigma above.

A City Abuzz: The city of Phoenix buzzed with intrigue and speculation in the wake of the extraordinary sighting. Eyewitness accounts flooded in, describing a massive craft spanning the length of several football fields, adorned with the mysterious lights that seemed to defy the laws of conventional aviation. As the news spread, the Phoenix Lights ignited a fervor of curiosity, and questions about the existence of extraterrestrial visitors lingered in the collective consciousness.

Skepticism and Official Statements: In the aftermath, skepticism and speculation mingled like constellations in the night sky. The U.S. Air Force initially attributed the sighting to flares dropped during a training exercise, attempting to demystify the phenomenon. However, this explanation fell short for many witnesses who attested to the cohesive and deliberate movement of the lights, challenging the official narrative.

Sources:

1. Eyewitness Accounts: Numerous eyewitness testimonies form the core of the Phoenix Lights narrative. Individuals from various vantage points reported seeing the V-shaped formation of lights, contributing to the overall mystique of the event.

2. Official Statements: The U.S. Air Force's initial explanation of the lights as flares is documented in official statements released after the incident.

The Phoenix Lights remain an unsolved cosmic riddle, a luminous page in the extraterrestrial anthology that continues to captivate the imagination and spark discussions about the possibility of visitors from beyond our celestial borders.

Sources:
Dunning, Brian (April 26, 2007). "Skeptoid #41: The Alien Invasion of Phoenix, Arizona". Skeptoid. Retrieved 2011-03-23.

Steve Lantz (Director) (2005). The Phoenix Lights Documentary (Internet). Arizona.

Shanks, Jon (March 18, 2007). "National Ledger – Former Arizona Gov. Admits UFO Sighting On Night of Phoenix Lights". Archived from the original on 2007-03-20. Retrieved 2007-03-19.

The Sierra Sounds

What are the sierra sounds

In the Bigfoot community there are these audio files that are deemed the holy grail of Sasquatch sounds. They were recorded by Ron Morhead in the 1970s in Sierra county CA.

Ron got invited to this area in the mountains to camp with a couple friends so they could get another witness to what they were experiencing there. They would hear these loud inhuman noises being made at night and they would see strange lights throughout the forest. Ron brought his old tape recorder with and one night they were able to record these sounds and became entranced by what they were hearing. It would become known as samurai talk or chatter. You could clearly hear different beings with different vocal patterns. There were times they would hear their camp getting destroyed but would go and check to find nothing had been moved or misplaced. They would also have bread taken out of their bags and out of the plastic like a human did it but no one was around because this area was extremely hard to get to and they never once came into contact with another human over the years of camping there.

These sounds have been studied by universities and linguists. They have proven that these sounds are not of human origin because of the range of the vocal patterns. They go too high and too low for a human to make them. There are also too many “syllables” that are spoken at a rate of speed and frequency that is impossible for humans to make or any animal that is on file. They have yet to be debunked as fake because of how old the tapes are. They were recorded before people could alter recordings.

If you would like to listen to these sounds you can go to Ronmorehead.com or find them on YouTube. Ron also has a couple books out and has been on many podcasts and films.

Today in History the Haunting of Borley Rectory

Amidst the quiet English countryside, the tale of Borley Rectory, once deemed the "most haunted house in England," unfolds like a ghostly tapestry, weaving together spectral whispers and tragic flames.

The Haunting: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Borley Rectory, a Victorian mansion in Essex, gained notoriety for its alleged paranormal activity. Tales of phantom footsteps, ethereal figures, and mysterious messages etched themselves into the annals of the supernatural. The house became a spectral stage where the living and the dead seemingly shared the same shadowy corridors.

Phantom nuns, spectral coaches, and a ghostly nun known as the "White Lady" were said to wander the estate, leaving an eerie trail of unexplained phenomena. The Reverend Lionel Foyster and his wife Marianne, who resided in the rectory during the 1930s, bore witness to inexplicable events, including poltergeist activity, ghostly inscriptions on the walls, and mysterious bell tolls that echoed through the night.

The Mysterious Fire: On the eve of February 27, 1939, tragedy struck the already haunted Borley Rectory. A fierce fire consumed the aged timbers of the mansion, casting a crimson glow against the darkened countryside. The flames danced with an almost supernatural intensity, as if fueled by the otherworldly forces that had long dwelled within the rectory's walls.

The once-proud structure, a repository of both historical charm and spectral mysteries, crumbled beneath the relentless assault of the inferno. The Borley Rectory, a focal point of supernatural intrigue, was reduced to smoldering ruins, its secrets lost in the billowing smoke.

Sources: The Borley Rectory haunting and its eventual destruction have been chronicled in various accounts, with one of the most notable sources being "The Most Haunted House in England" by Harry Price. Harry Price, a paranormal investigator, conducted investigations at Borley Rectory and wrote extensively about the alleged hauntings. It's important to note that while the Borley Rectory story is famous, it has also been a subject of controversy and skepticism, with debates about the authenticity of the reported paranormal activity.

photo credit to “The Ghosts of Borley Rectory” on Peacock

What is Ego Death?

After discussing this topic during last nights Podcast, I thought it might be cool to cover what ‘Ego Death’ is since we didn’t elaborate.

Ego death is a concept primarily rooted in psychology and spirituality, describing a profound psychological experience where the individual undergoes a dissolution or transcendence of their sense of self or ego. It's often associated with intense spiritual or psychedelic experiences, but can also occur spontaneously or through practices like meditation.

During ego death, individuals may experience a loss of boundaries between themselves and the external world, a dissolution of their identity, and a sense of oneness or unity with everything around them. This can lead to a profound shift in perspective, often accompanied by feelings of awe, interconnectedness, and spiritual awakening.

In psychological terms, ego death can be seen as a temporary breakdown of the ego's normal functioning, allowing for a more expansive and less constrained experience of reality. Some theorists suggest that experiencing ego death can be therapeutic, leading to increased self-awareness, empathy, and a deeper understanding of one's place in the world.

However, it's important to note that ego death experiences can be intense and potentially overwhelming, and may not always result in positive outcomes. Integration and support are often recommended for individuals who undergo such experiences, to help them make sense of their insights and incorporate them into their lives in a healthy way.
-Frank

Did Stanley Kubrick Stage the Moon Landing? Today in History!

In the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Stanley Kubrick wove a cinematic labyrinth of horror and madness in "The Shining." The Overlook Hotel, with its sinister secrets and ghostly specters, became an iconic setting where the thin line between reality and nightmare blurred, leaving audiences in a state of perpetual unease.

The Overlook Hotel's Haunting Spectacle: As Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson, succumbed to the malevolent forces lurking within the hotel's corridors, Kubrick crafted a visual symphony of dread. The ominous twins, the enigmatic Room 237, and the cryptic labyrinth, all became indelible markers in the cinematic lexicon of terror. Kubrick's meticulous attention to detail transformed every frame into a chilling tableau, enveloping viewers in an unsettling atmosphere that lingered long after the credits rolled.

Conspiracy Theories Unveiled: Yet, the enigma surrounding "The Shining" extends beyond its celluloid reel, giving rise to a tapestry of conspiracy theories that swirl like phantom apparitions in the collective consciousness.

1. The Moon Landing Connection: Some theorists speculate that Kubrick, renowned for his attention to detail, subtly embedded clues in "The Shining" regarding his alleged involvement in faking the Apollo 11 moon landing. They point to symbols and imagery in the film, such as Danny's Apollo 11 sweater, as supposed evidence of Kubrick's complicity in a moon landing hoax.

2. Hidden Meanings in Symbolism: Devotees of the film have delved into the labyrinth of symbolism, suggesting that Kubrick intentionally filled "The Shining" with hidden meanings and subliminal messages. Theories range from interpretations of the film as a commentary on the genocide of Native Americans to Kubrick's personal exploration of the Holocaust.

Sources:

1. "The Shining" (1980) - Directed by Stanley Kubrick: The film itself serves as the primary source for understanding its themes, symbolism, and visual storytelling.

2. "Room 237" (2012): This documentary explores various conspiracy theories and interpretations of "The Shining," offering insights from enthusiasts and theorists who delve into the film's alleged hidden meanings.

While the conspiracies surrounding "The Shining" may invite skepticism, they undeniably add layers of intrigue to the film's enduring mystique. Kubrick's masterpiece continues to captivate audiences, inviting them to wander the eerie corridors of the Overlook Hotel, where the line between reality and imagination remains tantalizingly thin.

Was the Moon Landing Staged? We’d love to get your take!

the Berwyn Mountains UFO Crash

In the ancient shadows of the Berwyn Mountains, a celestial drama unfolded on that enigmatic night in January 1974, etching the tale of the Berwyn Mountains UFO Crash into the cosmic canvas of extraterrestrial lore.

The Silent Symphony in the Sky: As the tranquil Welsh landscape slumbered beneath a blanket of stars, an otherworldly symphony resonated through the mountains. Witnesses below would later recall a brilliant burst of light, illuminating the night with an ethereal radiance. The heavens seemed to crack open, revealing a celestial visitor whose origin defied terrestrial understanding.

The Mysterious Encounter: In the quiet village of Llandrillo, residents were stirred from their nocturnal repose by an inexplicable commotion. Eyes turned skyward, witnessing an anomalous object hurtling through the atmosphere. The heavens themselves seemed to protest the intrusion, manifesting a crescendo of strange lights and unearthly sounds.

The Unveiling of Controversy: In the aftermath of the cosmic visitation, controversy descended upon the Berwyn Mountains. Official explanations veiled in secrecy heightened suspicion, with initial reports attributing the disturbance to an earthquake. However, the tremors of skepticism reverberated, and local whispers spoke of a government cover-up concealing the truth of an otherworldly encounter.

Sources:

1. Contemporary News Reports: Local and national news outlets at the time documented the incident, capturing the initial confusion and subsequent attempts to decipher the enigma in the Berwyn Mountains.

2. Official Statements: Statements from government officials and authorities regarding the Berwyn Mountains incident are crucial sources, providing insight into the official narrative surrounding the events.

3. Investigative Studies: UFO researchers and investigators delved into the Berwyn Mountains incident, contributing studies and analyses that explore the nuances of the sighting, adding layers of interpretation to the mysterious event.

The Enigma Persists: Decades after the Berwyn Mountains incident, the UFO crash remains an enduring enigma. Skeptics and believers continue to scrutinize the events of that fateful night, with the mountains holding their secrets close. The Berwyn Mountains UFO Crash echoes through the valleys of Wales, an indelible mark on the tapestry of unexplained phenomena, beckoning curious minds to unravel the cosmic mysteries that linger in the shadows.

Photo credit: https://www.herald.wales/

On ARG’s

One question we get often (because we discuss them so frequently-) What are ARG’s exactly?

An Internet ARG, or Alternate Reality Game, is an interactive narrative or puzzle-solving experience that takes place across various media platforms and the real world. ARGs are designed to engage participants in a collaborative and immersive storytelling experience, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Here are some key characteristics of Internet ARGs:

1. Multimedia Storytelling: ARGs often unfold across different media, including websites, social media platforms, emails, phone calls, videos, and physical locations. Participants must piece together information from various sources to understand the narrative.

2. Real-time Interaction: ARGs typically unfold in real time, with the narrative progressing based on the actions and decisions of the participants. This real-time element adds a sense of urgency and immediacy to the experience.

3. Puzzle-solving and Challenges: Participants in ARGs are often required to solve puzzles, crack codes, or decipher hidden messages. These challenges can be presented in a variety of forms, ranging from online riddles to real-world tasks.

4. Community Collaboration: ARGs encourage collaboration among participants. Solving complex puzzles often requires a collective effort, fostering a sense of community among players who share information and insights.

5. Role-Playing and Immersion: Participants may be encouraged to assume specific roles or personas within the game, blurring the boundaries between the fictional narrative and the real world. This immersion enhances the overall experience.

6. Unfolding Narrative: The storyline of an ARG evolves over time, with new plot elements and challenges introduced periodically. This ongoing narrative keeps participants engaged and invested in the unfolding story.

7. Mystery and Suspense: ARGs often involve mysterious and suspenseful narratives, with elements of the unknown and unexpected. This sense of mystery is designed to captivate and intrigue participants.

8. Marketing and Promotion: While some ARGs are purely for entertainment, others are used as marketing tools for promoting movies, video games, or other products. They serve as an innovative way to engage an audience and generate interest.

One notable example of an Internet ARG is the "I Love Bees" campaign, which was a marketing effort for the video game "Halo 2." Participants engaged in a complex narrative involving websites, phone calls, and real-world events to uncover the storyline.

It's important to note that participation in ARGs is voluntary, and players are usually aware that they are engaging in a fictional experience. The line between reality and the game is intentionally blurred to enhance the immersive nature of the storytelling.

We recently did an episode on Liminal Land which you should totally check out. For extra credit, also check out some of our favorites including “Don’t hug me I’m scared" “The Sun Vanished” “Kraina Grzybów TV” and “Local 58.”

People who have claimed to have visited Hell

As we come closer to our episode this upcoming Monday discussing digital and quantum immortality, we thought it’d be cool to talk about the afterlife. What do you think happens when you die? Journeying into the abyss, some individuals claim to have transcended the mortal realm and glimpsed the infernal landscapes of Hell. Their narratives, shrouded in mystery and often rooted in religious or metaphysical experiences, offer haunting glimpses into a realm beyond our comprehension.

1. Dante's Divine Comedies: Centuries ago, the renowned Italian poet Dante Alighieri embarked on a harrowing odyssey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven in his epic work "The Divine Comedy." While Dante's journey is a literary creation, it has influenced perceptions of the afterlife for generations, delving into the moral consequences of human actions.

2. Howard Storm's Near-Death Experience: In the modern era, Howard Storm's near-death experience in 1985 is a haunting account that has captivated many. Storm, a former atheist and art professor, claimed to have descended into a nightmarish realm during a life-threatening emergency. He described encounters with malevolent entities and the overwhelming darkness of Hell. Storm's narrative is detailed in his book "My Descent Into Death."

3. Bill Wiese's 23 Minutes in Hell: Author Bill Wiese claims to have experienced Hell for 23 minutes during a night in 1998. His account, detailed in the book "23 Minutes in Hell," describes encounters with demonic creatures, unbearable heat, and the agonizing screams of lost souls. Wiese believes his experience was a divine revelation meant to warn others about the consequences of a sinful life.

4. Mary Baxter's Divine Revelation: Mary Baxter, a Christian evangelist, penned the book "A Divine Revelation of Hell," in which she claimed to have had a series of visions depicting Hell. Baxter described witnessing tormenting scenes, including individuals being punished for various sins. Her accounts have stirred controversy, with skeptics questioning the validity of her visions.

5. Ancient Mythologies and Religious Texts: Various religious texts and mythologies around the world incorporate vivid depictions of the afterlife, including realms of punishment. These narratives serve as cautionary tales and moral teachings, shaping cultural perceptions of what awaits beyond the mortal coil.

While these accounts of journeys to Hell are compelling, it's crucial to approach them with skepticism. The nature of such experiences often involves deeply personal and subjective interpretations, influenced by cultural, religious, or psychological factors. Sources cited are based on the authors' own accounts, and it's important to consider various perspectives when exploring the mysteries of the afterlife.

What is Skinwalker Ranch?

Nestled within the haunting landscapes of northeastern Utah, Skinwalker Ranch, a place where the veil between the ordinary and the supernatural seems to blur, unfolds its enigmatic tale through the tapestry of time.

1848: The Shermans' Homestead Amidst the undulating hills and arid expanses, the story begins in 1848 when the Sherman family establishes a humble homestead on the land that would later become known as Skinwalker Ranch. Unbeknownst to them, the rugged terrain conceals ancient secrets and mystical energies.

1934: The Emergence of Strange Phenomena Whispers of peculiar occurrences gain momentum in the 1930s as the Sherman family's descendants recount tales of inexplicable lights dancing across the night sky and eerie shadows that seem to move with a mind of their own. The ranch, now enveloped in an aura of mystery, becomes a focal point for those fascinated by the unexplained.

1950s-1960s: The Government's Interest Rumors of paranormal activity attract the attention of government agencies during the Cold War era. Classified investigations unfold discreetly, leaving behind a labyrinth of conspiracies and covert operations. The ranch becomes a clandestine arena where the boundaries between science and the supernatural blur.

1994: The Gorman Ownership The veil of secrecy is lifted when the Gorman family purchases the ranch in 1994. As they settle into their new home, a cascade of bizarre events unfurls—a cavalcade of UFO sightings, cryptid encounters, and unexplained livestock mutilations. Skinwalker Ranch becomes synonymous with the inexplicable, a place where reality seems to warp at the edges.

2016: The Advent of Scientific Exploration A team of researchers, armed with cutting-edge technology and an insatiable curiosity, descends upon Skinwalker Ranch in 2016. The scientific inquiry delves into the paranormal phenomena, seeking to unravel the mysteries that have long shrouded the land. Yet, the more they unveil, the more questions surface, leaving the intrepid investigators grappling with the unknown.

Present Day: The Ongoing Enigma As the present day unfolds, Skinwalker Ranch remains a nexus of unexplained occurrences, a tapestry woven with threads of UFO sightings, shape-shifting entities, and inexplicable energy fluctuations. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the supernatural, beckoning those who dare to venture into its enigmatic embrace, where the boundaries between reality and the extraordinary remain tantalizingly blurred.

I must clarify that the story I provided about Skinwalker Ranch is a creative narrative based on common themes and anecdotes associated with the ranch. While Skinwalker Ranch is a real location and has been the subject of various claims and stories, the specific details and dates presented in the narrative are fictional and not based on verifiable sources.

Skinwalker Ranch gained attention through the book "Hunt for the Skinwalker: Science Confronts the Unexplained at a Remote Ranch in Utah" by George Knapp and Colm Kelleher. Additionally, there have been documentaries and media coverage exploring the purported paranormal phenomena associated with the ranch.

It's important to approach the topic of Skinwalker Ranch with a critical and discerning mindset, as the claims and stories surrounding it often lack scientific evidence and are sometimes sensationalized.

Sources: The History Channel - Photos from the History Channel

Our host Kimberly also may have had an experience with a Skinwalker taking the form of her husband. Check out our Hometown horror Episode which can be found here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/latenightlegends/episodes/The-Paranormal-Experiences-of-Kimberly-e1oiong

Martin Luther King JR Conspiracy

Did the CIA murder MLK JR because he spoke out against Vietnam?

In the hallowed annals of history, the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. stands as an indomitable force for civil rights and equality. However, like any towering figure, the aura of conspiracy has woven its enigmatic threads around his life and tragic death.

As the resounding echoes of King's "I Have a Dream" speech still reverberate through time, whispers of covert machinations challenge the narrative. Some theorists delve into the shadows, questioning the official account of King's assassination on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee.

Conspiracy theorists raise a skeptical eyebrow at the lone gunman theory that pins the blame on James Earl Ray. A web of intrigue emerges, suggesting a more elaborate orchestration. Some contend that governmental agencies, their nerves jangled by King's growing influence, played a clandestine role in his demise. The specter of COINTELPRO, the FBI's covert program aimed at surveilling and undermining civil rights leaders, looms ominously in these narratives.

Theories unfurl like ancient scrolls, weaving tales of collusion between shadowy figures and powerful institutions. Allegations dance in the moonlit corridors of power, suggesting a plot to silence King's thunderous call for justice. Was the assassin a mere puppet in a grander scheme, a sacrificial pawn to quell the rising crescendo of the civil rights movement?

Among the murkier corners of conspiracy, questions linger about the alleged unseen hands guiding the trajectory of history. Whispers speak of hidden agendas, covert operations, and suppressed truths. Did the pursuit of justice for all lead to a calculated suppression of one man's voice?

Yet, in the midst of these conspiratorial mists, King's enduring legacy remains a beacon of hope and resilience. His dream, etched into the collective consciousness, transcends the veils of suspicion. As history unfolds, the conspiracies surrounding Martin Luther King Jr. become fragments of a complex narrative, challenging us to discern truth from the shadows that cloak it.

So what happened in Miami?

In the sultry night sky over Miami, a celestial ballet unfolded, captivating onlookers with an enigmatic display that defied earthly explanation. A luminous anomaly, cloaked in an ethereal glow, pirouetted through the stars, leaving a trail of wonder in its wake. Its otherworldly radiance painted the horizon in hues unknown to the human eye, a cosmic symphony of iridescence that echoed the mystery of the cosmos. Witnesses stood spellbound as the Miami UFO, a shimmering enigma suspended in the velvety darkness, etched an indelible mark on the city's skyline, beckoning the curious to question the boundaries of the known and the undiscovered realms beyond.

911 calls flooded in with hysterical accounts of the sightings. (listen to them, you’ll like them.)

OR

Since the incident on 1/5/2024, the official story now says it was teens lighting fireworks at Bayside Marketplace Mall. Which is it? You decide.

The Other Side?

Mediumship has been around for eons, and its influence certainly is felt most heavily in matters of the paranormal.  I have to admit, I’m fully on board with the idea that some have the ability to contact the other side, with one caveat, I simply don’t think ;it will work for me.  I have no real reason to think this way, I have plenty of dead loved ones.  Maybe I’d rather think they're not interested instead of thinking they might just be gone?

But that sounds skeptical, and as I stated, I fully believe in mediums.  So when I began to be more exposed through the podcast to more and more mediums and psychics, I began where I usually begin with any of my curiosities: research.  In that research, I looked at how long in written human history this ability has been recognized.  I looked at the 90s varieties of Miss Cleo and other such 800 numbers.  And of course, I looked at how communicating with spirits became so normalized.  I won’t go into the massive amount of stories and individuals involved, but I will mention one or two curious things I encountered.  

What did escapist Harry Houdini have in common with Sherlock Holmes novelist Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?  As it turns out, spiritualism.  Houdini made an obsessed vocation out of debunking mediums, whereas Doyle married one.  

Our story begins in Rochester, NY with the Fox sisters.  Margaretta and Kate, managed by their sister Kate, began careers as mediums known for their rappings and communications during seances.  While confessing, and later recanting, that they had made the whole thing up, they still popularized spiritualism, which during the time, was seen more as a religion than anything else.  It took off in popularity from around 1840-1920, before persistent claims of fraud eventually ate away at its supporters.  Many prominent mediums were women, and most spiritualists were active  in the abolition of slavery and the suffrage movement.

As spiritualism began to gather controversy, Houdini joined the critics and became fascinated with debunking mediums whom he believed were conning grieving folks out of their money.  He met Sur Arthur Conan Doyle through spiritualism circles, and while friends for a time, ended up on opposing sides of the argument.  Ironically enough, the creator of one of the most skeptical and practical characters in literature completely believed in the powers of psychics, while the celebrated magician became so convinced of fraud, he eventually spoke in front of congress urging the passing of legislation which would criminalize fortune telling for hire.  Clearly, this was not passed.  

I can’t help but wonder why someone whose livelihood depended on suspension of disbelief would be so opposed to the idea of communicating with the other side.  I honestly don’t know why anyone who has ever lost someone would not embrace the idea that maybe, just maybe, they might see or hear that individual again.   For me, this concept represents hope.  Hope that the ones we love are never too far away or unreachable.  Hope that all the love we accumulate doesn’t just evaporate, but that it stays and continues.  

Personally, I will support believers and non-believers whatever they choose, but for me, I like to think the ones I’ve lost are quietly witnessing and waiting for me to notice.  

What’s Really in the Michigan Woods?

The legend of the werewolf has captivated several cultures for centuries. Not as widely know is a similar creature, the Dogman.  While they do not change from man to dog, they strike terror into the hearts of believers. Dogmen stand at roughly 7ft tall with blue or amber colored eyes.  When they howl, they sound like a screaming man.  They are known to be brutal and vicious in appearance, although most sightings do not actually end in violence.

Dogmen sightings happen mostly in wooded areas, and one of the more famous beasts is the Michigan Dogman.  While the Odawa Indians had a history of lore involving the creature, the first official reported encounter of the beast occurred in 1887 in Wexford County, by two lumberjacks who saw a creature which they described as walking upright with a man’s torso and a canine head. In 1937, Mr. Robert Fortney made claims he was attacked by a pack of dogmen.  These are only a few of the hundreds of recorded sightings in Michigan alone.  According to myth, the Michigan Dogman appears in a ten-year cycle that falls on years ending in 7, which places the next round of sightings to begin in 2027.

Even though the Michigan Dogman is possibly the most famous, dogmen are spotted across the United States, with the highest concentration centered around the Great Lakes.  Pennsylvania is one of such spots where recent sightings have occurred.  In 2019, a Delaware county man was camping in a remote region when he was terrorized by a large, dog like creature who left him bruised, bloody and confused.

While the violent attacks do stand out, most of the time, Dogmen kind of just skulk around a bit.  Lots of sightings involve seeing them peeking in windows or getting curious about hikers and campers.  To be completely honest, I don’t know if I’m a believer or not, but I do think that anytime there is a history of a creature coming from multiple locations and cultures, there’s something there to be explored.  Although maybe I’ll search during the daytime.

Ancient Protector or Modern Predator?

If you like cryptids and call the Midwest home, you’ll have heard of the Thunderbird.   

Admittedly, these do not rank among my top cryptid sightings.  They’re perfectly lovely as far as the unusual goes, I simply tend to have softer spots for those of the ocean and wood.  But like any researcher, if I don’t know much, I want to know more.

Being an Illinois resident, the first stop on my search is 1977 Lawndale, IL.  A great uproar occurred in a backyard in town, as a giant bird attempted, and almost succeeded, in carrying a 10 year old boy away.

The boy escaped with the aid of his mother, who left this description, “It had a white ring around its half foot long neck. The rest of the body was very black. The bird’s bill was six inches in length and hooked at the end. The claws on the feet were arranged with three front, one in the back. Each wing, less the body, was four feet at the very least. The entire length of the bird's body, from beak to tail feather was approximately four and one half feet.” - Ruth Lowe

History of Thunderbird sightings reaches back hundreds of years.  Several indigenous peoples from north to Central America told tales of massive guardians and protectors.  The name springs from the description of the thunder sound that’s created by flapping wings, and lightening that can come from its eyes.

As mentioned prior, these birds were once viewed as strong and powerful protectors of native tribes, as many great birds were.  In fact, one of the forms prohibited to Skinwalkers was the Eagle.  The interpretation of them as more frightening human predators is more recent.

It has been proposed that the thunderbird legend is based on fossils of flying reptiles or raptor like avians.

However, modern sightings report birds that at up to 20ft in wingspan, are very much alive.  While occurances dwindled for a few years, One woman reported a sighting in Alaska as recently as 2018, and she isn’t alone. Many sightings occur with several witnesses, such as the sighting by bush pilot John Bouker and his plane-load of passengers.  [“The bird is] huge, he’s huge, he’s really, really big,” Bouker later told reporters. “You wouldn’t want to have your children out.”

Thunderbirds are also credited with being among the mysteries of the Alaskan Triangle, an intriguing area which will be further explored in upcoming posts.   As people disappear, some theorize that a few of them have fallen victim to these massive raptors.

I’d like to believe they are neither based on fossils or hungry giant condors.  I prefer that whatever has been seen are the last of a dying breed.  Perhaps the offspring or grandchildren of the Teratornis merriami, king of the birds who purportedly  died out at the end of the last ice age.

At the conclusion, I’m still more enthralled by the megalodon, and the Sasquatch, but I’m probably going to be checking the skies more often than I used to.

Feed me Seymour…

Imagine walking thru a deep, dark jungle.  You hear a rustle, not a loud one, just a whisper.  Suddenly, a vine snakes out and wraps around your ankle.  You spy in the distance a gaping maw lined with razor teeth and realize the vine is pulling you towards it.  You grab your machete and lop off the vine and run.

There were many stories just like this one during the expedition explosion of the 1800’s.  The tales and legends that came back with explorers were often filled with danger and adventure., one of which originated as a story written by Edmund Spencer that appears in the New York World on April 26, 1874. The story follows Karl Leche (also spelled as Karl or Carl Liche in later versions of the story) a German Explorer. Karl Leche stumbles upon a sacrifice being performed by a tribe in Madagascar. This sacrifice is being fed to a plant during a ritual.

Now, while we haven’t as of yet discovered any flora friends from Little Shop of Horrors, there may be some kind of real world truth behind these fantastical rumors.

Some types of plants cannot gain enough nutrients from their environment, and so they turn to animals, gaining access to the carnivore classification. Pitcher plants, for exemple, look like a vase with a hood-like top. The edge of this hood is sweet smelling and attracts bugs and sometimes frogs. Once animals get too close, they fall in and get trapped. The pool of digestive chemicals at the bottom digest the prey.

The largest of these plants is called a Nepenthes. It’s native to Southeast Asia and has a vine that can grow up to 50 feet in length. The Nepenthes, although it usually consumes bugs, people have found animals as large as rats inside of the pitcher part of the plant. Some of these have been found to hold as much as four quarts of liquid.

In Japan the Rafflesia gets depicted as a man-eater, and even though it smells like rot and decay or the remains of a recently eaten animal, it is herbivorous.

The smell of this plant is similar to the corpse flower, which has been said to be the biggest and smellies flower on earth. When it blooms it can reach over nine feet in height, which certainly looks as if it could eat a human.  Just ask Kara, who dabbles a bit.

Our very own Panda says it best:

“Given how much is left to be explored here on Earth, who knows?  Maybe there’s something similar to the Pitcher Plant and the Venus Fly Trap that can eat people. Or something on another planet that we have yet to see”

Seeing double…

One of the oddest things I have found in the paranormal world is the idea of doppelgängers.  They hit that uncanny valley spot for me, where you know something isn’t quite right, but can’t quite place your finger on it.

A doppelgänger, double walker, is defined as an apparition or double of a living person.  Now, in the eyes of science, it’s highly probable every person has a double who they are not biologically related to.  There is a finite number of genetic combinations that affect human appearance.  In the paranormal and folklore world, there’s quite a different explanation.

One common theme is that the doppelgänger is a sign or omen of dark things to come.  If you see your double, bad fortune is supposed to follow.  This idea has evolved into an entity that can be sometimes dark, sometimes harmless, and on occasion, mischievous.  If the apparition leans towards dark matters, the objective is usually unknown.

Sometimes these twins are seen in the originals place, doing something the original would be doing.  Sometimes they’re seen from the corner of the eye.

Are they projections from another time?  Are they mimics trying to replace their originals?  Or are they simply spirits copying us?   Much like everything spooky, we can never really know, but for me, that’s part of the attraction.

Tulpa: think it, now see it?

On our episode Backrooms, we delved a bit into liminal space and posed the question, can spaces be transformed into eerie places by people’s belief, a kind of location Tulpa.  

Since I’m limited in my knowledge of the Tulpa and where it came from, you’re now joining me on my deep dive.  

A Tulpa is an idea that was born out of theosophy, mysticism, and the paranormal during the late 19th/early 20th centuries.  More specifically, it is an object or being that is brought into reality by thought.  But I’m simplifying things a bit, as I am not even close to an expert in the religions or cultures mentioned below. 

In a very select subset of Buddhism called Vajrayana, there is a concept of the emanation body from which the concept of Tulpa and thought-form sprang.  In later books, the Tulpa was divided into into three classes: forms in the shape of the person who creates them, forms that resemble objects or people and may become ensouled by nature spirits or by the dead, and forms that represent inherent qualities from the astral or mental planes, such as emotions. *

Here’s where our concept begins to go in a different direction.  A spiritualist by the name Alexandra David-Néel reported that she had witnessed Tulpas being created in Tibet and firmly believed that they could become so strong they could develop a mind of their own.  And this is where it can get dangerous as it leaves its creators control.  And this is where is morphs into what we think of when we hear the word today thanks to creepypasta stories and horror movies.

My bottom line is as per usual, I’d like to believe. There is much unknown surrounding mysticism and the more secretive or ancient parts of religious practices, and I’m not entirely convinced that there isn’t a part of our brains we’ve neglected or forgotten how to use that might tap into the paranormal or extraordinary experiences. Plus I can’t help but particularly enjoy that these things might be more real than most might be comfortable with.

Anyway, food for thought, and beyond that thought…

 (Besant, Annie; Leadbeater, C. W. (1901). "Three classes of thought-forms". Thought-Forms. The Theosophical Publishing House.).

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Jeni’s List of National Parks

There is something about great parcels of wilderness that touches a deep part of me.  I want to see them, be in them, explore the largest and smallest of flora, and witness all of the fauna.  I want to touch the monoliths of stone, the seas of sand, the cool cushion of moss, and even the sharp delicacy of the cacti.

More than almost anything though, I want to be in the places that spark stories of ancient lore, paranormal events, and especially cryptid sightings.

This is a personal list of my top places to try to wander within the National Park System.  Abroad is another story for another time.

Grand Canyon- Arizona

Even though I may not be able to legally go off trail and explore caves, I still want to feel the history of this place.  Some Pueblo tribes believe this to be where their culture began when their ancestors emerged out of the original Sipapu near the Confluence of the Little Colorado River and the Colorado River.  You can take overnight backpack trips to this mystical area, which to this day, still has a profound effect on park rangers and indigenous people alike.  There’s the added lure of mule carried day trips, which never detracts from an adventure.

Chaco Canyon- New Mexico

Chaco is a National Historical Site, which fits it into a category not quite aligning with the rest of the National Parks on this list, however, the history in this one is pretty intense.  It houses around 4000 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, covering more than 10,000 years of culture.  And the people who thrived there?  The Anasazi.  For those familiar with Indigenous history, these were the ancestors of twenty different tribes.  For those with a more paranormal slant, these are a mysterious, nearly mythological, sometimes dark, always ahead of civilization peoples.  I could repeat the thousands of paranormal events that have been reported in and around the area, along with the cryptid sightings, the extraterrestrial occurrences, or the idea of lay lines, but the digging is half the fun.  All I know is that whenever I visit one of these ancient sites, there is a profound feeling of connection and an undeniable undercurrent that everything is not as it seems, and you are walking in very mystical footprints.

Olympic National Park- Washington

First of all, Bigfoot.  We’re talking about nearly 700 documented sightings in Washington State.  I’ve been fascinated since Harry and the Hendersons, and my belief only got stronger as I aged, supported by my idolization of Jane Goodall who does, in fact, also believe.  I’m not sure there needs to be more of a reason to go anywhere, but I’ll give some anyway. Next reason, Goblin Gates.  I’d visit for the name alone, but this area also contains a description of an area of gorge that likens it to the “throat of a monster”.  How does this not make your cryptid bone itch? Boasting a temperate rainforest, the immense swath of land looks like something out of a primeval landscape.  This isn’t even including the atmosphere of magic running through the fairytale like caverns of green growth and huge waterfalls.  It might be the closest I get to the fae.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park -Tennessee

Spear finger might be one of the most intriguing witch figures since Baba Yaga.  Disguising herself as an old woman, she would lure children to her and then use her sharp, spear finger to steal their livers to eat.  This goes back to Cherokee lore, warning children not of the dangers of the wild, but rather against leaving one’s family or tribe.  She is known to haunt these mountains especially in fog and mist. Witches notwithstanding, the area is part of the Appalachian Mountains, and that alone makes this an intriguing park, given the sheer amount of lore and myth surrounding Appalachia, from cryptids, to goblins, to UFO activity.

Haleakala National Park-Hawaii

Due to my love of the ocean and scuba, you might think this one is just an excuse to get in the water, and I won’t lie, that’s a part for sure.  To my defense, there are many creepy things about the ocean and what may dwell at the depths, but Megalodon reports are not the primary drive here.  Rather, this park is often the site of ancient ghosts and incidents of Pele’s influence and guardianship of native Hawaiians and their protected lands.  Items taken from this park without authorization are often returned to park rangers from across the world due to the bad luck and hauntings that come with.  This area is integral to indigenous people's creation lore and remains a sacred space, which as if you can’t tell by now, raises a huge amount of curiosity for me.  Sacred places are sacred for a reason, and if approached with respect and a real interest to learn of the peoples who have resided there for thousands of years, these places imprint and leave a lasting impression on our psyche, and I believe, our ability to be open to the unusual.