The Box of Oddities podcast

The Box of Oddities

The Webby Award-winning “Box of Oddities" is a podcast that delves into the strange and mysterious aspects of our world, exploring topics ranging from bizarre medical conditions to unsolved mysteries, and from paranormal phenomena to strange cultural practices from around the world. With a focus on oddities, curiosities, and the macabre, each episode is a journey into the unknown, where hosts Kat and Jethro Gilligan Toth share their love for unusual stories and inject their humor and commentary. From the strange history of medical practices to chilling true crime stories, to natural (and unnatural) events, "The Box of Oddities" satisfies your thirst for the weird and the unusual, offering an informative and entertaining look into the dark and mysterious corners of our world. JIMMY KIMMEL, ABC-TV says, "Should you be the type who has an interest in weird stuff, this is a fun thing to allow in your head!"  “Truth is stranger than fiction, and the Box of Oddities is the strangest of all!” -SLUGGO, SIRIUS XM LITHIUM “Kat & Jethro wring humor from bizarre, macabre and perplexing places.” -BOSTON MAGAZINE

The Webby Award-winning “Box of Oddities" is a podcast that delves into the strange and mysterious aspects of our world, exploring topics ranging from bizarre medical conditions to unsolved mysteries, and from paranormal phenomena to strange cultural practices from around the world. With a focus on oddities, curiosities, and the macabre, each episode is a journey into the unknown, where hosts Kat and Jethro Gilligan Toth share their love for unusual stories and inject their humor and commentary. From the strange history of medical practices to chilling true crime stories, to natural (and unnatural) events, "The Box of Oddities" satisfies your thirst for the weird and the unusual, offering an informative and entertaining look into the dark and mysterious corners of our world. JIMMY KIMMEL, ABC-TV says, "Should you be the type who has an interest in weird stuff, this is a fun thing to allow in your head!"  “Truth is stranger than fiction, and the Box of Oddities is the strangest of all!” -SLUGGO, SIRIUS XM LITHIUM “Kat & Jethro wring humor from bizarre, macabre and perplexing places.” -BOSTON MAGAZINE

 

#722

Sniff The Moon

What prowls the dark Wisconsin backroads, leaving behind tales of terror and… maybe a little fur? In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we sink our teeth into the chilling legend of the Bray Road Beast—a creature so mysterious it makes Bigfoot look like an open book. Is it a werewolf, a cryptid, or just the world's angriest raccoon? Then, we sniff out answers to the ultimate question: What does the Moon smell like? Or space? Or even a diamond when it’s burned (yes, diamonds burn—it’s a thing)? Dive nose-first into the unexpected aromas of things you’ll never get to sniff IRL as we uncover the science and mystery behind these out-of-this-world scents. Curiosity might kill cats, but it feeds us. Tune in for a peculiar ride filled with monsters, moon dust, and a sprinkle of delightful weirdness. #BrayRoadBeast #CryptidLore #WeirdScience #TheBoxOfOddities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

17 hrs Ago

38 MINS

38:05

17 hrs Ago


#721

The Devil’s in the Details

Prepare to clutch your pearls and adjust your tinfoil hats as The Box of Oddities dives into the dark, dramatic, and downright bizarre! In this devilishly delightful episode, we explore the Satanic Panic of the 1980s, a moral hysteria that had suburban parents convinced their neighbors were secret Satan-worshiping cultists. From heavy metal album burnings to questionable daycare accusations, it’s a cautionary tale of how fear, misinformation, and a little too much daytime TV can send society spiraling into chaos. Then, we take on 666, the number that makes hotel elevators skip a floor and sends shivers down numerologists’ spines. Is it truly the “number of the beast,” or just ancient branding gone rogue? We unravel its biblical origins, occult meanings, and modern-day pop culture cameos that prove this sinister figure isn’t done stirring the pot. Dive into the madness—your ears will thank you! #TrueCrime #OccultHistory #SatanicPanic #PodcastLovers #666 If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

20 Jan 2025

47 MINS

47:34

20 Jan 2025


#720

Inbox Of Oddities #035

The inbox of Oddities is a delightful bonus episode where Kat and Jethro dive into the treasure trove of listener emails, comments, and messages sent by you—the ever-curious Freak Family. From spine-tingling personal encounters with the paranormal to bizarre trivia, mysterious coincidences, and even a touch of the hilariously strange, this episode is a rollercoaster of oddities shared by the ones who make this community so special. Tune in for heartfelt stories, jaw-dropping revelations, and the signature humor that makes every episode of The Box of Oddities an unforgettable experience.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

17 Jan 2025

29 MINS

29:42

17 Jan 2025


#719

Aimlessly Chasing Firetrucks

What do a wildly beloved school cat and a baseball player with a firetruck obsession have in common? They’re both delightfully odd and waiting for you in this episode of The Box of Oddities! First, unravel the purr-fectly peculiar story of Room 8, the stray cat who became a permanent resident of a California classroom, winning hearts and raising eyebrows along the way. How does a feline end up on yearbook pages and immortalized in local lore? Then, step up to the plate with Rube Waddell, the eccentric pitcher who traded curveballs for firehoses between games. From wrestling alligators to chasing fire engines, Rube’s life was a curveball of its own. Join Kat and Jethro as they dive into two wildly bizarre tales of unexpected fame and fiery passion. It’s a doubleheader of quirky charm you won’t want to miss! #Oddities #Podcast #WeirdHistory #CatStories #BaseballLegends #Room8 #RubeWaddell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

15 Jan 2025

38 MINS

38:46

15 Jan 2025


#718

Jobling’s Tarred Corpse

What do a grisly public execution and a pack of socially conscious canines have in common? They’re both waiting for you in this delightfully strange The Box of Oddities episode! First, explore the gruesome tale of William Jobling, a miner whose horrifying punishment—being gibbeted and left to rot in a metal cage—made him an eerie symbol of injustice in 19th-century England. What did Jobling do to deserve such a fate? And why does the word "gibbet" sound like it belongs in a pirate movie? Then, brace yourself for the paws-itively incredible story of the dogs who helped spark social change. These four-legged revolutionaries weren't fetching sticks—they were fetching justice. Discover how humanity's best friends played a role in historic moments of progress. It’s a macabre-meets-wholesome adventure you won’t want to miss! #BoxOfOddities #TrueCrime #WeirdHistory #DogsOfInstagram #StrangeButTrue #HistoryPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

13 Jan 2025

37 MINS

37:12

13 Jan 2025


#717

Inbox Of Oddities #034

The Inbox of Oddities is a delightful bonus episode where Kat and Jethro dive into the treasure trove of listener emails, comments, and messages sent by you—the ever-curious Freak Family. From spine-tingling personal encounters with the paranormal to bizarre trivia, mysterious coincidences, and even a touch of the hilariously strange, this episode is a wild ride of oddities shared by the ones who make this community so special. Tune in for heartfelt stories, jaw-dropping revelations, and the signature humor that makes every episode of The Box of Oddities an unforgettable experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

10 Jan 2025

27 MINS

27:15

10 Jan 2025


#716

Mutant Amphibians with Sparklers

Ever felt like tossing a message in a bottle was a hopeless romantic gesture? It could happen. In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we dive into the most jaw-dropping, fate-defying, and downright fascinating messages ever plucked from the sea. One note delivered a message from the sinking Titanic, while another saved the lives of a family in the most bizarre way. 🐠✨ Then, grab your flashlight and a skeptical friend—we’re heading to Loveland, Ohio, where the legendary Frogman has been leaping into our nightmares. Is it a mutant amphibian, an elaborate hoax, or just your average guy in a lizard suit? 🐸🌙 Explore the strange sightings, the spine-tingling eyewitness accounts, and why this cryptid has people croaking with curiosity. Tune in for stories that will leave you asking: What else is out there, floating just beyond our understanding? #Podcast #Mystery #MessagesInBottles #Frogman #WeirdHistory #Cryptids Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

08 Jan 2025

36 MINS

36:29

08 Jan 2025


#715

Mothman's Fine Booty

What if that familiar face isn’t so familiar after all? In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we delve into the eerie world of mimics—ghostly or demonic entities that not only haunt objects but impersonate the people you trust most. Could your best friend’s doppelgänger be lurking in plain sight? You might never look at your loved ones the same way again. Then, prepare for your brain to shatter (unlike this glass) as we unravel the mystery of Prince Rupert’s Drop, a seemingly fragile glass creation that can withstand the crushing weight of a jumbo jet but disintegrates instantly when its tail is snapped. What kind of sorcery is this? Science that feels like magic, that’s what. Tune in for a double dose of unsettling and awe-inspiring oddities—you won’t want to miss it. #Paranormal #WeirdScience #Mimics #PrinceRupertsDrop #Podcast #BoxOfOddities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

06 Jan 2025

47 MINS

47:26

06 Jan 2025


#714

Inbox Of Oddities #033

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

02 Jan 2025

24 MINS

24:55

02 Jan 2025


#713

A New Year Celebration of the Bizarre

Join Kat and Jethro in this special New Year episode of The Box of Oddities, where they revisit some of the most intriguing topics from past New Year celebrations. This episode is a delightful blend of history, humor, and the bizarre, perfect for kicking off the new year with a fresh perspective. -The Bizarre History of the Calendar: Discover how various cultures have marked the passage of time, including the quirky Roman calendar and the radical French Republican calendar, which attempted to redefine time itself during the Revolution. Learn about the strange rituals and beliefs that accompany these systems, revealing that our understanding of time is anything but straightforward. - The Memorial Mound in Alabama: Explore the eerie tale of a mausoleum that became infamous for its abrupt closure and the mysteries surrounding it. This story delves into themes of mortality and remembrance, offering a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into how we honor those who have passed. - Weird Conversation Starters: Get ready for your next social gathering with an arsenal of bizarre conversation starters. These prompts are designed to break the ice and spark memorable discussions, ensuring you never have an awkward silence again. - Crazy Tricks with Numbers: Uncover the mathematical oddities that can amaze your friends and family. Whether it's mind-bending number patterns or surprising calculations, this segment will equip you with fun facts that make numbers useful and entertaining. Tune in for a humorous and enlightening journey through these peculiar topics as Kat and Jethro celebrate the New Year with curiosity! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

30 Dec 2024

1 HR 13 MINS

1:13:46

30 Dec 2024


#712

Inbox Of Oddities #032

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

26 Dec 2024

25 MINS

25:47

26 Dec 2024


#711

Twas the Fright Before Christmas: Haunted Toys Unwrapped

Get ready for a holiday treat that’s anything but merry and bright! In this special Christmas episode of The Box of Oddities, we unwrap a chilling assortment of haunted toy stories just in time for the festive season. Revisit the spine-tingling tales of infamous cursed playthings like Robert the Doll and Annabelle as we delve deeper into their eerie histories and the unsettling mysteries they carry. Hear firsthand accounts from people who claim to have encountered malevolent toy terrors lurking in their attics, basements, and beneath the Christmas tree. It’s a nightmarish twist on the Yuletide spirit—perfect for true believers, skeptics, and anyone craving a dash of holiday horror. Tune in as we discover why some toys are better left unopened, and remember: just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean these dolls will play nice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

23 Dec 2024

1 HR 08 MINS

1:08:39

23 Dec 2024


#710

Inbox Of Oddities #031

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

19 Dec 2024

23 MINS

23:11

19 Dec 2024


#709

Sad Macaroni

Prepare to jump head-first into a collection of fascinating and downright peculiar stories in this The Box of Oddities episode. First, we unravel the bizarre tale of a woman who holds the record for the most births in a lifetime. How many children does it take to make history? You’ll be shocked. Next, we explore the invention of Zero and the curious way our modern numeric system came to life—a tale that’s both ancient and strangely modern. Then, we turn our attention to cutting-edge technology with a look at the Willow Quantum computer chip. This futuristic marvel is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with capabilities that could change everything we know about computing and even reality. And lastly, we take you on a global journey to update you on the weirdest and most unique ways people celebrate the holidays across the world. This episode has it all, whether it’s bizarre traditions or shocking celebrations! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

16 Dec 2024

1 HR 05 MINS

1:05:02

16 Dec 2024


#708

Freak Family Favorites #018

In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, Kat tells us about some very unusual holiday traditions from around the world (it includes carving out the stomachs of children). Jethro shares stories from history when folks were not garbage people to each other. Freak Family Favorites: it’s better than having your ears boxed.  If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

12 Dec 2024

33 MINS

33:33

12 Dec 2024


#707

A Wolf With A Scalpel

The Box of Oddities: The Disappearance of Yara Gambirasio, Trophic Cascades, Witold Pilecki & Notre Dame Secrets In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we explore four extraordinary and mysterious stories. First, we investigate the chilling, bizarre, and puzzling disappearance of Yara Gambirasio, whose case continues to haunt investigators. Then, we uncover how a simple shift in an ecosystem—known as a trophic cascade—can have massive and unpredictable effects on the planet. Next, we journey into history, highlighting the heroic life of Witold Pilecki, a man who actually broke into Auschwitz and became a symbol of selfless resistance. Finally, we uncover a fascinating discovery beneath the Notre Dame cathedral—an astonishing find that sheds new light on the history of this iconic structure. The Box of Oddities is a whirlwind of dark mysteries, natural wonders, and heroic feats that will leave you questioning everything! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

09 Dec 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:25

09 Dec 2024


#706

Inbox Of Oddities #030

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

05 Dec 2024

27 MINS

27:38

05 Dec 2024


#705

Bengay For Horses

Join Kat and Jethro as they dive into four bizarre stories that will leave you questioning reality. First, meet Michael Malloy, the man who survived multiple attempts on his life during the Great Depression—his resilience will astound you. Then, journey back to 1838 to discover Henriette d'Angeville, the first woman to successfully climb Mont Blanc, defying the odds and the expectations of her time. Next, hear the chilling story of Jane Stewart, who dreamed of the 9/11 attacks one day before they happened, sparking questions about premonitions and the supernatural. Finally, explore popcorn's strange and often forgotten history—how this beloved snack rose to fame in unexpected ways, from ancient times to modern-day cinema. Join us for an episode filled with mystery, history, and the unexplained, all with the signature Box of Oddities twist of humor and curiosity! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

02 Dec 2024

1 HR 02 MINS

1:02:31

02 Dec 2024


#704

Freak Family Favorites #017

In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, Jethro learns how a dead guy in a gardening shed inspired a winter festival, and Kat examines an animal so strange that it's been described as a mammal with scales like a reptile and a gizzard-like a bird.   Whether you're a seasoned fan of the Box of Oddities or a newcomer to the world of the peculiar, this bonus episode is your passport to the extraordinary. Get ready to unravel the unexplained, and join us for Freak Family Favorites. If you would like to host your favorite Box of Oddities episode, Just record on your smartphone who you are, where you’re from, what your favorite story is and why …and anything else you would like to share. Then email it to [curator@theboxofoddities.com] (mailto:curator@theboxofoddities.com) If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

28 Nov 2024

41 MINS

41:27

28 Nov 2024


#703

Cannibalistic Pilgrims

In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat, and Jethro take you on a journey through four wildly fascinating tales. First, we dive into Ray Kurzweil’s theory of mind uploading, exploring the mind-bending idea of transferring human consciousness into a digital format—could immortality be just a click away? Then, prepare for a grim story about amateur castration surgery—we have questions because sometimes, people’s DIY ambitions are better left untried. The mystery continues as we investigate the Kincaid Cave, a hidden location tied to ancient secrets and bizarre discoveries that have confounded experts for years. Finally, we uncover the symbolism behind the intricate designs of traditional Māori tattoos, known as tā moko, revealing the deep cultural meanings behind these markings. It’s an episode full of science, mystery, and culture—don’t miss it! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

25 Nov 2024

1 HR 01 MINS

1:01:59

25 Nov 2024


#702

Freak Family Favorites #016

In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, "It looked like a loaf of bread with teeth." Then, what looked like gelatin fell from the sky and gave people the flu: the fascinating Tibetan Buddhist Rainbow Body phenomenon and the mysterious Oakville Blobs. The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

21 Nov 2024

44 MINS

44:15

21 Nov 2024


#701

Fairground Horse Carcass

 In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat and Jethro dive into four perplexing stories that blur the line between history, mystery, and the supernatural. First, they explore the enigmatic Copper Scroll—is it a treasure map or something far more cryptic? Then, we journey to the streets of Brittany, where the Lioness of Brittany takes revenge in a tale that’s as chilling as it is captivating. From the supernatural to the technological, the duo wonders if smart devices are more than just gadgets—could they actually be portals to the beyond? Finally, they unravel the cosmic connection between Arcturus, a star 40 lightyears away, and its mysterious role in lighting up the 1933 Chicago World's Fair—all this with a healthy dose of humor, of course. Tune in to uncover the strange and unexpected! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact [advertising@airwavemedia.com] (mailto:advertising@airwavemedia.com)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit [megaphone.fm/adchoices] (https://megaphone.fm/adchoices) ... Read more

18 Nov 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:08

18 Nov 2024