Best Scream Machine Podcasts (2025)

1
Thank Your Local Horse, OG Canners, Busting Bird Gender Norms 1:01:34

14h ago1:01:34

1:01:34

Nathan H. Lents joins the show to discuss why some birds are extra loud in bed, along with his new book: The Sexual Evolution: How 500 Million Years of Sex, Gender and Mating Shape Modern Relationships. Plus, Sara Kiley explains how horses are used to create snake anti-venom, and Rachel talks about how Napoleon played a part in instigating the art …

1
See No Evil, Hear Movie Review: How Pryor & Wilder Made It Work 17:28

4d ago17:28

17:28

In this episode, we dive into See No Evil, Hear No Evil — a chaotic buddy comedy where Richard Pryor plays a blind man, Gene Wilder plays a deaf man, and somehow… they get framed for murder. It’s a premise that sounds like a setup for disaster, but these two legends pull it off with pure timing, chemistry, and unfiltered energy. We break down the w…

1
The Yamauba of the Daisetsuzan Mountains 12:12

5d ago12:12

12:12

Discover the chilling legend of the Yamauba of Hokkaido’s Daisetsuzan Mountains in this episode of Supernatural Japan. We explore the origins of this fearsome mountain witch (also known as Yamamba), her role in Japanese folklore, and the terrifying stories told by travelers and locals alike. From ancient kaidan to modern sightings, learn why the Ya…

1
From The Vault: Miriam Margolyes 1:00:08

6d ago1:00:08

1:00:08

From a childhood in Oxford shaped by unconditional love, Jewish heritage and a keen sense of curiosity, to a career spanning stage, screen, voice work and bestselling memoir, Miriam Margolyes’ life has been anything but ordinary. In this candid conversation with James O’Brien, the beloved actor reflects on the security of her early years, the sting…

1
The Vanishing of Tiphaine Véron 10:04

11d ago10:04

10:04

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the mysterious disappearance of French tourist Tiphaine Véron, who vanished in 2018 while visiting the historic city of Nikkō. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines, temples, and scenic beauty, Nikkō attracts travelers from around the world—yet Tiphaine’s case remains one of Japan’s m…

1
The political system 20:34

13d ago20:34

20:34

Part 3 of our series on music & politics Defining politics † systems approach † infoblitz † (in)efficacy of protest music Words by Matt Stretz, Zac Strum, Conner Tomlinson, & Alli Winters Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Cariad Lloyd: Talking About Grief Changed My Life 1:01:05

13d ago1:01:05

1:01:05

Cariad Lloyd never set out to become the voice of modern grief, but after losing her father at just fifteen, the silence around death stayed with her. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien speaks with the actor, comedian and creator of Griefcast podcast about how turning her personal loss into public conversation has transformed both he…

1
Medical Butt Chugging, Ancient Ice Cream Pyramids, "The Thing" but Midwestern 56:01

15d ago56:01

56:01

Mary Roach RETURNS to Weirdest Thing to share her new book, Replaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy! From this phenomenal new read, she discusses a section on breathing through your butt, a thing not only turtles can do, but also apparently humans. Plus, Rachel talks about the ancient (and DEADLY) origins of ice cream, and Lauren explains a st…

1
Tales from “Dark Kyoto” 39:09

18d ago39:09

39:09

This week on Supernatural Japan, host Kevin O’Shea meets returning guest and Japan-based writer Phillip Jackson in Osaka’s beautiful Utsubo Park for a rare in-person recording. Phillip takes us deep into the eerie side of Dark Kyoto—far beyond the usual temples and tourist spots—to uncover chilling ghost stories, tragic historical events, and unset…

1
Affective resonance 15:48

20d ago15:48

15:48

Part 2 of our series on music & politics Memory & metaphor † emotional manipulation † avant-garde Words by Matt Stretz, Zac Strum, Conner Tomlinson, & Alli Winters Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Kevin Rowland: Beyond Come On Eileen 59:08

20d ago59:08

59:08

From a shifting childhood split between Wolverhampton, rural Ireland and London, to fronting one of the most distinctive and uncompromising bands of the 1980s, Kevin Rowland’s life has been defined by defiance, vision and resilience. In this in-depth conversation with James O’Brien, the Dexys Midnight Runners frontman reflects on the lasting impact…

1
The Extra Dancer: Ghosts of Obon in Tohoku 6:42

22d ago6:42

6:42

In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the chilling legend of the “Extra Dancer” who appears during Bon Odori festivals in rural Tohoku. Rooted in Japan’s Obon traditions—a time when spirits of the dead are believed to return—we uncover ghostly encounters, cultural history, and eerie first-hand accounts of this mysterious figure who join…

1
Messengers of the Gods: The Sacred Deer of Nara 10:00

25d ago10:00

10:00

In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we journey to Nara, where over 1,000 free-roaming deer are revered as messengers of the gods and protected as national treasures. Explore the ancient legends that tie these sacred animals to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, discover how Shinto beliefs shaped their divine status, and learn how modern tourism has transform…

1
Protest songs 18:22

27d ago18:22

18:22

Part 1 of our series on music & politics Contemporary protest music † historical objectives † Kendrick v Drake † comedy & irony Words by Matt Stretz, Zac Strum, Conner Tomlinson, & Alli Winters Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Irvine Welsh: We’re More Addicted Now Than in Trainspotting 1:01:43

27d ago1:01:43

1:01:43

From the high-rises of Muirhouse to the heart of countercultural Britain, Irvine Welsh has built a literary universe fuelled by punk energy, dancefloor euphoria, and radical empathy. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien meets the novelist and cultural icon to trace a life shaped by rebellion, recovery, and relentless storytelling. They…

1
Bette Midler and the Salamander, How Marathon Swimmers Pee, D+D is Good for Your Brain 1:05:48

29d ago1:05:48

1:05:48

The wonderful Ryan Mandelbaum is BACK to discuss their latest animalian interest: salamanders in New York City! Laura also explains how peeing while swimming a marathon is shockingly complicated, and Rachel gets into why Dungeons and Dragons is therapeutic for your noggin. Go check out Ryan's newsletter! https://ryanmandelbirder.substack.com/ The W…

1
When the Spirits Return: Japan’s Spooky Summer 13:32

1M ago13:32

13:32

In this episode of Supernatural Japan, titled “When the Spirits Return: Japan’s Spooky Summer,” we explore the eerie traditions and ghostly folklore that come alive during Japan’s hottest season. From the haunting Obon Festival—when ancestral spirits are said to return—to chilling kaidan (ghost stories), mysterious summer rituals, and the soothing …

1
Inhale screams 15:39

1M ago15:39

15:39

Part 5/5 of our conversation about singing/songwriting with Aaron Bard (Thus Spoke) and Jane Ferry (LittleXFerry / Ferryopolis) Inhales aren’t bad † Jane’s technique † articulation † volume Words by Aaron Bard, Jane Ferry, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
David Lammy: I’ve had imposter syndrome my whole life- until now 54:57

1M ago54:57

54:57

From a working-class childhood in Tottenham to the Cabinet table, David Lammy’s path to becoming Foreign Secretary was anything but straightforward. Raised by a single mother after his father disappeared when he was twelve, David’s early life was shaped by absence, ambition and a fierce sense of justice. In this deeply personal conversation with Ja…

1
Hiking Haunted Kansai: A Paranormal Adventure 17:39

1M ago17:39

17:39

Join us for a thrilling new episode of Supernatural Japan as I hike through the hidden, haunted corners of Kyoto with Japan-based paranormal author Phillip Jackson. Together, we explore eerie locations off the tourist path, including the mysterious Mount Oiwa Shrine, abandoned Momoyama Castle, the Tomb of Emperor Meiji, and even a haunted public re…

1
The Haunting of the Amakusa Islands 11:59

1M ago11:59

11:59

In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we journey to the mysterious Amakusa Islands, a remote and historically rich archipelago off the coast of Kyushu. Known for their connection to hidden Christian history, samurai rebellions, and ancient folklore, the Amakusa Islands are steeped in ghost stories, unexplained phenomena, and spiritual legends. Joi…

1
Diagnosing Conner 21:49

1M ago21:49

21:49

Part 4/5 of our conversation about singing/songwriting with Aaron Bard (Thus Spoke) and Jane Ferry (LittleXFerry / Ferryopolis) Conner’s technique † clean and harsh singing † pitch correction † mouth & jaw position Words by Aaron Bard, Jane Ferry, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of Paris…

1
Grace Dent: Almost Everything I’ve Done, I’ve Been Told No First 1:02:35

1M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Before she was a MasterChef judge and one of Britain’s most distinctive food writers, Grace Dent was a Carlisle kid eating crispy pancakes and dreaming of life beyond beige dinners. In this episode of Full Disclosure, she joins James O’Brien to talk about blagging her way into London media, finding her voice through food, and why she still can’t be…

1
The Bone Collector, Threads of God, Cloacal Chamber 49:46

1M ago49:46

49:46

Scientific illustrator and Twitch streamer Liz Clayton Fuller (ipaintbirbs) joins the show once more to talk all things cloaca -- and why some birds lack them. Plus, Jess hops behind the mic to talk about the world's rarest pasta, and Rachel dives into carnivorous caterpillars that sound like WWE wrestlers. The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week is…

1
The Doryodo Ruins – The Haunted Temple That Screams 10:34

2M ago10:34

10:34

In this chilling Supernatural Japan episode, host Kevin O’Shea ventures to the heart of western Tokyo to unravel the dark mysteries of the haunted Doryodo Ruins in Hachioji’s Ōtsukayama Park. Once a serene temple built in 1874 and demolished in the 1980s, the site is now infamous for a horrifying trio of murders—a robbery-slain elderly caretaker in…

1
Singing on drugs 13:03

2M ago13:03

13:03

Part 3/5 of our conversation about singing/songwriting with Aaron Bard (Thus Spoke) and Jane Ferry (LittleXFerry / Ferryopolis) Alcohol & anxiety † sobriety as an altered state † psychedelics † embrace the silliness Words by Aaron Bard, Jane Ferry, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of Paris…

1
Graham Fellows: Playing John Shuttleworth Came at a Cost 59:30

2M ago59:30

59:30

Before he became known as the quirky, banana-snacking John Shuttleworth, Graham Fellows was a kid from Sheffield with dreams of classical acting and a knack for writing unforgettable songs. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien meets the man behind the cult characters to trace the unpredictable path from Jilted John to Chicken Town. The…

1
Further observations on screaming 28:00

2M ago28:00

28:00

Part 2/5 of our conversation about singing/songwriting with Aaron Bard (Thus Spoke) and Jane Ferry (LittleXFerry / Ferryopolis) Comfort zone † Aaron's technique † pain † live vs recording † children screaming Words by Aaron Bard, Jane Ferry, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of Paris & Impulse Machine…

1
The Vending Machine Murders – Japan’s Paraquat Poisonings 12:05

2M ago12:05

12:05

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we delve into the infamous Paraquat Murders (パラコート連続毒殺事件), a shocking true crime case from 1980s Japan that left the nation gripped by fear. Known as the "Vending Machine Murders," these unsolved poisonings involved bottles of tainted beverages left near vending machines across the country, resulting …

1
Jon Culshaw: The Impressionist Who Fooled the Prime Minister 1:00:26

2M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

Long before Dead Ringers or Spitting Image, Jon Culshaw was a schoolboy with a knack for mimicry and a fierce determination to escape into voices- finding freedom, fun, and a future through the radio dial. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien sits down with Jon to explore how a shy kid from Lancashire became one of the UK’s best-loved …

1
A New Green, THIS IS MY EVEREST, Chickens Influencing Cats 55:59

2M ago55:59

55:59

Actor and creator of the Brat Apple Dance, Kelley Heyer, joins the show! The squad talks about a BRAND NEW green color, cheating at climbing Mt. Everest, and a sneaky trick to make cats less allergenic. The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week is a podcast by Popular Science. Share your weirdest facts and stories with us in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook group⁠⁠⁠…

1
The Ominato Ghost Ship and the Spirits of the Ukishima Maru 9:46

2M ago9:46

9:46

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we set sail into the eerie waters of Aomori Prefecture to uncover the legend of the Ominato Ghost Ship—a spectral vessel said to haunt the bay near Mutsu City, Japan. Linked by whispers to the tragic wartime sinking of the Ukishima Maru, this modern urban legend blends historical mystery with supernat…

1
Exorcism 15:00

2M ago15:00

15:00

Part 1 of our conversation about singing/songwriting with Aaron Bard (Thus Spoke) and Jane Ferry (LittleXFerry / Ferryopolis) Songwriting as therapy † what does authenticity really mean? † research methods Words by Aaron Bard, Jane Ferry, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Michael Lewis: America Is Run by Bullies 1:01:03

2M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Before The Big Short, Moneyball or The Blind Side became bestsellers (and Hollywood hits), Michael Lewis was just trying to make sense of a world where things didn’t add up- from Wall Street to the government to the rules of sport. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien sits down with the celebrated writer to unpack the origins of his ou…

1
The Blue Blanket Butcher 14:18

2M ago14:18

14:18

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we delve into the horrifying true crime case of the Blue Blanket Butcher (青い毛布の殺人者, Aoi Mōfu no Satsujinsha)—a gruesome unsolved mystery that shook Japan more than 100 years ago. Discover the dark story of a killer who lured victims under the cover of night, leaving behind mutilated bodies wrapped in …

1
Observations on screaming 14:27

2M ago14:27

14:27

Skill appeal in popular metal † timbre & attack † humanity & blood Words by Michael Hopkins, Zac Strum, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Amber Rudd: I resigned because I couldn’t defend the indefensible 59:24

2M ago59:24

59:24

Former Home Secretary who chose principle over position, Amber Rudd has spent much of her life at the centre of power. From banking to frontbench politics, her career has spanned the high-stakes worlds of business, government and Brexit-era turmoil. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien sits down with Amber to reflect on the decisions, …

1
Ghosts at the Gate: Kobe's Haunted Foreign Cemetery 10:16

2M ago10:16

10:16

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the eerie legends and ghost stories surrounding the Kobe Foreign Cemetery (神戸外国人墓地), a historic graveyard nestled in the hills of one of Japan’s most international cities. Discover the mysterious hauntings reported by locals and visitors alike, and learn how Kobe’s unique past as a port cit…

1
Horny Bugs, Women are Stronger Than Men, Evil Monkey Backpack Trends 48:35

2M ago48:35

48:35

Casey Johnston joins the show this week to talk about how women are truly and actually stronger than men (all of which she details in her new book!). Plus, Laura talks about promiscuous fruit flies, and Rachel talks about capuchin monkey's version of a Labubu. Get Casey's book here! https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/casey-johnston/a-physical…

1
The Ghost of Hozenji Yokocho: Osaka’s Hidden Spirit 11:25

3M ago11:25

11:25

Discover the chilling legend of the ghost of Hozenji Yokocho, a narrow, lantern-lit alleyway hidden in the heart of Osaka’s Namba district. In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the haunted history of this iconic backstreet, including eerie sightings near Hozenji Temple, local urban legends, and Osaka’s long-standing connection to the s…

1
Music theories 16:10

3M ago16:10

16:10

Theorizing pop & rock † descriptive rules † language shapes perception Words by Michael Hopkins, Zac Strum, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Jameela Jamil: Getting hit by that car changed everything 1:01:36

3M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

Actor, activist, and unapologetic truth-teller, Jameela Jamil has lived many lives and survived every single one of them with grit, wit, and an unwavering sense of justice. In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien sits down with Jameela to explore a journey that defies expectation. From a childhood shaped by illness, isolation and relentle…

1
Kitsune: Fox Spirits of Fortune and Folklore 11:07

3M ago11:07

11:07

In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the mysterious world of the Kitsune, Japan’s legendary fox spirit. Discover how these shape-shifting creatures bridge the gap between myth and reality—revered as protectors, feared as tricksters, and closely linked to the Shinto deity Inari. We dive into the history, folklore, and modern-day sightin…

1
The pain cave 13:55

3M ago13:55

13:55

Part 3/3 of our conversation about artistic creation and altered consciousness Experiences in the pain cave † quitting † osu & limit experience † panic † mind/body dissolution Words by Michael Hopkins, Zac Strum, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Larry Lamb: Damaged people are dangerous because they know they can survive 1:03:39

3M ago1:03:39

1:03:39

Known to millions as Mick Shipman in Gavin & Stacey and Archie Mitchell in EastEnders, Larry Lamb has lived a life far more complex than any character he’s played. From a fractured childhood in postwar London, to becoming one of Britain’s most familiar faces- his story is one of survival, resilience and transformation. In this episode of Full Discl…

1
Masochistic Trees, Lean Mean Sex Machines, Ancient Doodles 52:10

3M ago52:10

52:10

Patricia Ononiwu Kaishian joins the show to talk about horny eels. Plus, Sara Kiley explains the tree that loves getting struck by lightning, and Rachel goes into detail about kids passing notes in ancient times. The Weirdest Thing I Learned This Week is a podcast by Popular Science. Share your weirdest facts and stories with us in our ⁠⁠⁠Facebook …

1
The Tokyo Sarin Gas Attack 53:32

3M ago53:32

53:32

In this gripping episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore the chilling events of the 1995 Tokyo Subway Sarin Gas Attack carried out by the doomsday cult Aum Shinrikyo. Host Kevin O'Shea sits down with Japan-based university educator Brian Waters to discuss the cult’s apocalyptic beliefs, the terrifying morning of March 20th, and the lasting psycho…

1
Altered states 16:23

3M ago16:23

16:23

Part 2/3 of our conversation about artistic creation and altered consciousness Mindset toward content/expression † Neurochemical minmaxing Words by Michael Hopkins, Zac Strum, & Conner Tomlinson Music by Under the Catacombs of ParisBy Ashwood Media

1
Jimmy Anderson: Behind the Bowler 57:14

3M ago57:14

57:14

In this episode of Full Disclosure, James O’Brien sits down with cricketing icon Jimmy Anderson to trace the arc of a record-breaking career- from growing up as a shy kid in Burnley, to becoming the most successful fast bowler in Test history. Jimmy reflects on the early self-doubt that plagued him, the physical toll of a 20-year career, and the in…

1
Ghosts of the Tsunami - 3/11 10:53

3M ago10:53

10:53

In this chilling episode of Supernatural Japan, titled "Ghosts of the Tsunami 3/11," we explore the haunting aftermath of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami through the lens of local ghost stories and spiritual phenomena. Discover the eerie reports of phantom taxi passengers, wandering spirits, and supernatural encounters tied to the tragic eve…

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