The Atlas Obscura Podcast

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.

The team discusses their new travel resolutions for the year. Kelly plans a nostalgic trip with her son to relive old memories. Amanda is keen to discover quirky niche festivals, while Jerome yearns to connect with fandoms at big conventions. Johanna reflects on her airport mishaps and vows to avoid future flight blunders. Manolo aims to conquer new walking routes and embrace solo travels. Listeners are encouraged to share their own interesting lodging experiences.

Explore the fascinating transformation of Newtown Creek, one of the most polluted industrial waterways in the US. Discover how George Tracus turned his artistic vision into a nature walk, complete with a fragrance garden and a half-mile trail. Dive into the creek's deep history, featuring ancient fossils and ginkgo trees. Hear about the creative audio guide that reveals the hidden nature of the creek and the artists’ personal connections to this unique environment. Reflect on the past and consider what the future holds for this revitalized space.

Maria Smilios, an author and historian, unveils the untold stories of Black nurses at Sea View Hospital, who played a pivotal role in curing tuberculosis. The conversation explores the grim history of TB, the hospital's isolation on Staten Island, and the exodus of white nurses that led to the recruitment of Black nurses during the Great Migration. Smilios highlights their resilience amidst discrimination and their crucial contributions during the groundbreaking clinical trials for isoniazid, often overshadowed in historical narratives.

As the year wraps up, the team shares their travel lessons learned in 2025. Kelly emphasizes the importance of traveling with loved ones, while Jerome shares the joy of aimless coastal drives. Amanda recounts a spontaneous detour that led to delightful discoveries. Johanna reflects on the pleasures of revisiting favorite destinations, and Manolo talks about the need for personal space during trips. The hosts encourage listeners to share their own travel resolutions for the new year, inviting personal stories and inspirations.

Clark Ward, a PhD student and researcher, dives deep into the Ashfall Fossil Beds in Nebraska, a site teeming with ancient fossils like camels and three-toed horses. He shares the fascinating story of how a catastrophic volcanic event preserved these animals, much like Pompeii. The podcast reveals why so many creatures flocked to a seasonal water hole, and discusses the remarkable details of their social structures, revealed through their well-preserved skeletons. Discover the eerie circumstances that led to their demise and how visitors today can explore this active research site.

After a massive bur oak tree fell, a couple transformed its trunk into a stunning giant pencil. With the help of a local artist, they meticulously crafted it to resemble a classic No.2 pencil. The unique sculpture sparked interest in the community, leading to an annual sharpening ceremony that attracts thousands. This story of creativity and community showcases how a once-fallen tree became a symbol of togetherness and curiosity in Minnesota.

Nicholas Lindholm, a wild blueberry farmer and co-owner of Blue Hill Berry Company, shares his passion for Maine's unique blueberries and the traditional practice of hand-burning fields. He discusses how this technique rejuvenates the crop, fosters community bonding, and maintains the ecosystem. Nicholas also highlights the challenges faced by blueberry growers today and contrasts the safety and environmental benefits of hand-burning over mechanized methods. Join him as he reflects on the rich cultural significance behind this annual ritual.

Richard Parsons, author of *Wood Island Lighthouse: Stories from the Edge of the Sea*, and George Bruns, head of the Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse, delve into intriguing tales of Maine's lighthouses. They share the eerie legend of a 200-year-old curse, the famous collie Sailor who rang the fog bell, and a grisly murder linked to the island. Listeners will be captivated by stories of ghosts, heroic rescues, and the passionate volunteers preserving this historical treasure.

Chef Jason Williams, renowned for his hyper-local farm-to-table approach, shares his culinary journey from Portland to Cape Elizabeth, Maine. He recounts how discovering Jordan's Farm inspired him to create a unique dining experience. Jason's innovative five-course menu reflects seasonal ingredients selected fresh each morning. He also discusses the growth of Maine's food scene and the pride that comes with building a chef-owned restaurant. Dive into the flavors of Maine's rugged beauty through his eyes!