The Atlas Obscura Podcast

Anna Reinhart and Darren Durham are animal husbanders at Colonial Williamsburg, dedicated to preserving historical livestock. They dive into the adorable chaos of lambing season and the intriguing journey of the Leicester Longwool sheep, from smuggling and extinction to revival in America. They explore 18th-century shearing techniques and discuss the significance of matching livestock to authentic historical practices. Join them for insights on wool production and the vibrant atmosphere of Colonial Williamsburg as baby lambs take their first steps.

Discover the inspiring journey of Melaku Belay, who rose from homelessness to lead the Fendika Cultural Center in Addis Ababa. He shares his experiences dancing on the streets and finding his passion in traditional Ethiopian music. Hear how he transformed Fendika from a nightclub into a vibrant community hub with galleries, workshops, and international artist collaborations. Melaku emphasizes cultural pride, training local talent, and the unifying power of art while fostering an engaging environment for children and musicians alike.

Dawn Anahid MacKeen, an author and journalist, retraced her grandfather Stepan Miskjian's harrowing journey fleeing the Armenian genocide. She shares the gripping details of Stepan’s escape through the Ottoman Empire, including his experiences during the brutal marches into the Syrian desert and the impact of the alphabet parade incident. Dawn discovered new details through his journals and emphasizes the importance of resilience and forgiveness, reflecting on how her family's legacy shapes their views on survival and historical memory.

Kelly McEvers shares how her early adventures ignited her wanderlust, starting with a memorable flight and a solar eclipse in Berkeley. She reflects on deep connections made in Cambodia, particularly with a former child soldier, emphasizing the importance of listening. Her post-9/11 experience in Saudi Arabia reveals cultural challenges while donning an abaya. Finally, breathtaking hikes to Madain Saleh and the 'edge of the world' showcase the dramatic beauty of her travels, leaving listeners with vivid imagery and personal insights.

Dive into the bizarre world of William Buckland, an eccentric scientist who had a taste for adventure—and animals! Discover the fascinating story behind his coprolite tabletop made from fossilized feces at the Lyme Regis Museum. Learn how Buckland made groundbreaking discoveries at Kirkdale Cave, identifying hyena activity through leftover coprolites. Delve into his peculiar habit of tasting every animal he could find, driven by curiosity and a quest for notoriety. Buckland's life was as colorful as his unconventional table!

In this engaging conversation, Caroline Mazel-Carlton, a visitor and advocate with a remarkable journey of discovering over 1,000 Atlas Obscura places, shares how travel has been a lifeline during her struggles with suicidal thoughts. She recounts her early explorations starting with the eerie Lizzie Borden house and discusses how her family's adventurous spirit shaped her travels. Caroline connects her passion for unique sites to her work in suicide prevention, inspiring others through her compelling blend of storytelling and peer support.

Michelle Cassidy and Jonathan Carey, both editors at Atlas Places, share heartwarming tales of two heroic dogs. Cassidy recounts the remarkable journey of Sergeant Stubby, a stray who became a WWI mascot saving troops from mustard gas and capturing a spy. Carey follows up with the adventures of Oney, a beloved postal dog famous for riding trains and collecting mementos. Both pups ended up preserved for their legacies, serving as enduring symbols of loyalty and bravery.

Greg Eskridge, co-director of Uncuffed and a powerful voice for the incarcerated, shares his transformative journey after 30 years in prison. He describes the emotional rush of freedom upon his release and how the beauty of San Quentin provided hope during his time behind bars. Greg reflects on the symbolic power of water, visiting Berkeley Marina and celebrating moments of liberation, like riding a jet ski. He discusses using storytelling to reclaim his narrative and his vision for Uncuffed, aiming to humanize those affected by incarceration.

Explore the 100-year journey of motels in America, starting with the very first one featuring a Spanish Mission style. Discover the quirky tale of 'Magic Fingers,' a bed vibrator that once entertained guests. Uncover how motels evolved during the Great Depression and the dual impact of WWII on travel trends. Dive into the cultural significance of motels, from their seedy reputation in films to their revival as stylish boutique hotels. Reflect on the changing landscape of motels and how they're adapting for modern travelers.

Zane Moore, a plant biologist specializing in the genetics and ecology of redwoods, joins to unravel the mystery of albino redwoods with their ghostly white leaves. He contrasts the growth of typical coast redwoods with the puzzling existence of these non-photosynthetic sprouts. Zane shares his extensive research, cataloging over 700 albino redwoods and discusses their unique survival strategies, including a fascinating toxin reservoir theory. The hike to observe one first-hand reveals the striking beauty and public curiosity surrounding these rare trees.