American Esoterica

Episode 40 - It’s a Wonderful Filler

A beloved Christmas classic may not have always been so beloved, which is what directly led to it becoming beloved. Beloved.

Episode 39 - Mac & Cheese

Our national obsession with a cheezy pasta dish began in the kitchens of Monticello, but it isn't Jefferson to whom we owe the credit. 

Episode 38 - In Extravagantly Plain Sight

This is the story of the world's greatest heist - the time the CIA stole a Soviet submarine in full view of the entire world with the help of an eccentric billionaire.

Episode 37 - Lincoln’s Last Ride

Look, we don't know why we keep coming back to Lincoln, either. But this one has a ghost train, so there's that. 

Episode 36 - Hatefulness

On a Saturday morning in 1971, it took one word to bring many across the nation to the brink of utter panic. Blame Wayland Eberhardt. 

Episode 35 - Rogue Island

Thirteen original colonies smiling and holding hands? Nope. Twelve colonies and one knock-down, drag-out fight with one stubborn holdout. 

Episode 34 - Atomic Dogs

All it takes is one idiot to make your local street corner a radioactive hot zone. Note: this one is both gross and cruel towards dogs; we're less concerned with the people.

Episode 33 - In Spite Of

This is the story of a nation scorned taking delicious - and extraordinarily petty - revenge.

Episode 32 - Crumb of Equality

This is a story about the worst of intentions, and it is 100% about sex. Just not THAT kind.

Episode 31 - A Balance

Two names, two families, forever entwined. And it began even earlier than you know.