Astonishing Legends

In tonight’s dead letter, Scott and Forrest read a listener submission from Karena in Semaphore, Australia, who recounts a puzzling experience during her morning walk. On a bright, hot summer's day, she encountered a man walking 3 dogs. That itself is certainly not unusual, but he was dressed in clothes from another time and he vanished into thin air.

Semaphore | South Australia (https://southaustralia.com/destinations/adelaide/places/semaphore)

Semaphore, South Australia - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semaphore,_South_Australia)

The Ghosts of Versailles Part 1 (Spotify Link) A Timeslip Story (https://open.spotify.com/episode/1fMEodAOCODUitCcInGq6A?si=28877096428b4c26)

The Ghosts of Versailles Part 2 (Spotify Link) A Timeslip Story (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4W0XyEMmOoceFxQpHnNQ6M?si=aa4d659d67f14d4c)

There are 4 or 5 episodes on The Somerton Man. Look for those links in our archives.

Send your story to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, Scott and Forrest read a listener submission from Karena in Semaphore, Australia, who recounts a puzzling experience during her morning walk. On a bright, hot summer's day, she encountered a man walking 3 dogs. That itself is certainly not unusual, but he was dressed in clothes from another time and he vanished into thin air.<br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://southaustralia.com/destinations/adelaide/places/semaphore">Semaphore | South Australia</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semaphore,_South_Australia">Semaphore, South Australia - Wikipedia</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1fMEodAOCODUitCcInGq6A?si=28877096428b4c26">The Ghosts of Versailles Part 1 (Spotify Link) A Timeslip Story</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4W0XyEMmOoceFxQpHnNQ6M?si=aa4d659d67f14d4c">The Ghosts of Versailles Part 2 (Spotify Link) A Timeslip Story</a><br><br>There are 4 or 5 episodes on The Somerton Man. Look for those links in our archives.<br><br>Send your story to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com</div>

The Dog Walker

This week, we’re heading into the world of parapsychology with a visit to the legendary Rhine Research Center in North Carolina—an institution that’s been quietly pushing the boundaries of the human mind for nearly a century. Founded in the 1930s by J.B. and Louisa Rhine at Duke University, the center has long been a hub for rigorous scientific inquiry into phenomena like telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis. Recently, friend of the show Allison Jornlin invited Scott on a trip to the Rhine to help renowned researcher Dr. Nancy Zingrone donate materials from her and her late husband’s extensive paranormal library. While there, Scott met John G. Kruth, Executive Director of the Rhine and one of the foremost experts on the scientific study of consciousness and psychic phenomena, who joins us to share the fascinating history of the Rhine.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/05/10/ep-310-the-rhine-institute-extraordinary-evidence) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>This week, we’re heading into the world of parapsychology with a visit to the legendary Rhine Research Center in North Carolina—an institution that’s been quietly pushing the boundaries of the human mind for nearly a century. Founded in the 1930s by J.B. and Louisa Rhine at Duke University, the center has long been a hub for rigorous scientific inquiry into phenomena like telepathy, clairvoyance, and psychokinesis. Recently, friend of the show Allison Jornlin invited Scott on a trip to the Rhine to help renowned researcher Dr. Nancy Zingrone donate materials from her and her late husband’s extensive paranormal library. While there, Scott met John G. Kruth, Executive Director of the Rhine and one of the foremost experts on the scientific study of consciousness and psychic phenomena, who joins us to share the fascinating history of the Rhine.<br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/05/10/ep-310-the-rhine-institute-extraordinary-evidence">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.<br><br>
</div>

The Rhine Institute: Extraordinary Evidence

In tonight’s dead letter, we dive deep into the woods of Michigan's Upper Peninsula with Alicia, an experienced outdoorswoman who encounters a mysterious forest dweller during her hunting trip. As she waits silently, a small, dark form captures her attention—what could it possibly be? Is it a creature of folklore peeking into our world, or just an intricate game of light and shadow?

Michigan's Upper Peninsula (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upper_Peninsula_of_Michigan)

'The Wood Sprite' by Nabokov (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wood-Sprite)

Pukwudgie (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pukwudgie)

Fairies (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairy)

Astonishing Dead Letter Office (https://www.astonishingdeadletteroffice.com/)

Send your stories to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, we dive deep into the woods of Michigan's Upper Peninsula with Alicia, an experienced outdoorswoman who encounters a mysterious forest dweller during her hunting trip. As she waits silently, a small, dark form captures her attention—what could it possibly be? Is it a creature of folklore peeking into our world, or just an intricate game of light and shadow?<br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Upper_Peninsula_of_Michigan">Michigan's Upper Peninsula</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wood-Sprite">'The Wood Sprite' by Nabokov</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pukwudgie">Pukwudgie</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairy">Fairies</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.astonishingdeadletteroffice.com/">Astonishing Dead Letter Office</a><br><br>Send your stories to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com</div>

The Wood Sprite

In tonight’s dead letter, we dive into "The Scented Ghost," a story from Buffalo, New York, shared by our listener Cheryl. In her old apartment, she and her boyfriend often noticed a strong, unusual floral scent, which could selectively present itself to either one of them. Things got eerie when Cheryl encountered a mysterious figure one night, leaving her spooked. Years later, a chance encounter adds an unexpected twist to her tale, connecting her to a total stranger who had a similar experience in literally the exact same apartment.

https://paranormalglobe.com/2018/07/29/can-you-smell-ghosts-4-paranormal-smells-to-look-out-for/
https://www.hauntedrooms.com/new-york/buffalo/haunted-places

Send your stories to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, we dive into "The Scented Ghost," a story from Buffalo, New York, shared by our listener Cheryl. In her old apartment, she and her boyfriend often noticed a strong, unusual floral scent, which could selectively present itself to either one of them. Things got eerie when Cheryl encountered a mysterious figure one night, leaving her spooked. Years later, a chance encounter adds an unexpected twist to her tale, connecting her to a total stranger who had a similar experience in literally the exact same apartment.<br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://paranormalglobe.com/2018/07/29/can-you-smell-ghosts-4-paranormal-smells-to-look-out-for/">https://paranormalglobe.com/2018/07/29/can-you-smell-ghosts-4-paranormal-smells-to-look-out-for/<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.hauntedrooms.com/new-york/buffalo/haunted-places">https://www.hauntedrooms.com/new-york/buffalo/haunted-places</a><br><br>Send your stories to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com</div>

The Scented Ghost

In Part 2 of our series on the Max Headroom Broadcast Signal Interruption, we dig deeper into the analog chaos that unfolded in 1987 Chicago — a surreal, rebellious hijacking that mocked media itself. We explore the investigation, the lingering mystery, and what it says about how we interact with technology, culture, and entertainment today. Who was behind that mask? Who wielded that fly-swatter? Let’s get into it.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/04/26/ep-309-the-max-headroom-pirate-tv-incident-pt-2) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>In Part 2 of our series on the Max Headroom Broadcast Signal Interruption, we dig deeper into the analog chaos that unfolded in 1987 Chicago — a surreal, rebellious hijacking that mocked media itself. We explore the investigation, the lingering mystery, and what it says about how we interact with technology, culture, and entertainment today. Who was behind that mask? Who wielded that fly-swatter? Let’s get into it. <br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/04/26/ep-309-the-max-headroom-pirate-tv-incident-pt-2">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.</div>

The Max Headroom Pirate TV Incident Part 2

In tonight’s dead letter, listener Leah experiences repeated visits from what appear to be gnome-like beings. The visits began after she began practicing Wicca, and thankfully, these mysterious creatures appear to be non-threatening…but persistent. Are they simply hallucinations connected to sleep paralysis, or are they part of the fabric of reality that is hidden from us most of the time?

Email your stories to deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com
 (mailto:deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com)
https://hangar1publishing.com/blogs/cryptids/evil-gnomes-mythology

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, listener Leah experiences repeated visits from what appear to be gnome-like beings. The visits began after she began practicing Wicca, and thankfully, these mysterious creatures appear to be non-threatening…but persistent. Are they simply hallucinations connected to sleep paralysis, or are they part of the fabric of reality that is hidden from us most of the time?<br><br>Email your stories to <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="mailto:deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com">deadletteroffice@astonishinglegends.com<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://hangar1publishing.com/blogs/cryptids/evil-gnomes-mythology">https://hangar1publishing.com/blogs/cryptids/evil-gnomes-mythology<br></a><br>
</div>

There's No Place like Gnome

In tonight's dead letter, we explore the eerie experiences of Allie, a PhD candidate from the University of Arkansas, who revisits the hauntingly notorious Devil's Den in the Ozark National Forest. As shared with hosts Scott and Forrest, Allie's research expeditions become unsettling when she feels an unseen presence and hears unexplained banging noises near isolated trails and bridges. Her tales echo past episodes with guest of our main show, Terry Lovelace, adding another layer to the chilling lore of this paranormal hotspot.

Shownotes:

Abduction at Devil’s Den (Terry Lovelace) (https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bhbUedzWT4Jw0FW4kWNP3?si=19f90302c82a431f)

Devil’s Den the Reckoning Part 1 (https://open.spotify.com/episode/3YRLKZTD9kcc3YkgbvfnVc?si=4add7fdb048147dc)

Devil’s Den the Reckoning Part 2 (https://open.spotify.com/episode/50bbOWC72c5auCbMsGVpHK?si=361f59bbac9646e9)

Devil's Den State Park (https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/devils-den-state-park)

Devil's Den State Park Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devil%27s_Den_State_Park)

Terry Lovelace Books at Amazon

https://a.co/d/cA4eG3f
https://a.co/d/j7l4PFJ

<div>In tonight's dead letter, we explore the eerie experiences of Allie, a PhD candidate from the University of Arkansas, who revisits the hauntingly notorious Devil's Den in the Ozark National Forest. As shared with hosts Scott and Forrest, Allie's research expeditions become unsettling when she feels an unseen presence and hears unexplained banging noises near isolated trails and bridges. Her tales echo past episodes with guest of our main show, Terry Lovelace, adding another layer to the chilling lore of this paranormal hotspot. <br><br>Shownotes:<br><strong><br></strong><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bhbUedzWT4Jw0FW4kWNP3?si=19f90302c82a431f"><strong>Abduction at Devil’s Den (Terry Lovelace)</strong></a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3YRLKZTD9kcc3YkgbvfnVc?si=4add7fdb048147dc"><strong>Devil’s Den the Reckoning Part 1</strong></a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/50bbOWC72c5auCbMsGVpHK?si=361f59bbac9646e9"><strong>Devil’s Den the Reckoning Part 2</strong></a><strong><br></strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/devils-den-state-park">Devil's Den State Park</a><br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devil%27s_Den_State_Park">Devil's Den State Park Wikipedia</a><br><br><strong>Terry Lovelace Books at Amazon<br></strong><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://a.co/d/cA4eG3f">https://a.co/d/cA4eG3f<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://a.co/d/j7l4PFJ">https://a.co/d/j7l4PFJ<br></a><br>
</div>

Knockin' on Devil's Den Door

Before streaming and scrolling there was broadcast television—shared signals sent through the air for anyone with an antenna to catch. But when something’s that open, it’s also open to hijacking. In part one of our two-part series, we dig into one of the most bizarre and legendary cases of broadcast piracy: the Max Headroom Incident. On November 22, 1987, two Chicago stations were interrupted by a strange figure in a Max Headroom mask, delivering surreal, unsettling messages in a two-minute broadcast that has baffled and fascinated for nearly four decades. Who did it, why, and how did they pull it off? We explore the theories, the tech, and the legend that refuses to fade.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/04/12/ep-308-the-max-headroom-pirate-tv-incident-pt-1) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>Before streaming and scrolling there was broadcast television—shared signals sent through the air for anyone with an antenna to catch. But when something’s that open, it’s also open to hijacking. In part one of our two-part series, we dig into one of the most bizarre and legendary cases of broadcast piracy: the Max Headroom Incident. On November 22, 1987, two Chicago stations were interrupted by a strange figure in a Max Headroom mask, delivering surreal, unsettling messages in a two-minute broadcast that has baffled and fascinated for nearly four decades. Who did it, why, and how did they pull it off? We explore the theories, the tech, and the legend that refuses to fade.<br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/04/12/ep-308-the-max-headroom-pirate-tv-incident-pt-1">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.</div>

The Max Headroom Pirate TV Incident Part 1

In tonight's dead letter, we hear from Jada who encountered a shadowy figure with red eyes on two separate occasions in different locations. The first sighting occurred during a summer church camp, but the second happened years later and was witnessed by her boyfriend, who doesn’t believe in this kind of stuff. Are hauntings tied to people rather than places? Or tied to anything at all? The more we learn, the more questions we have.

<div>In tonight's dead letter, we hear from Jada who encountered a shadowy figure with red eyes on two separate occasions in different locations. The first sighting occurred during a summer church camp, but the second happened years later and was witnessed by her boyfriend, who doesn’t believe in this kind of stuff. Are hauntings tied to people rather than places? Or tied to anything at all? The more we learn, the more questions we have.</div>

The Shadow Man Who Wasn't There

In tonight’s dead letter, a listener shares her stories of a childhood filled with unexplained phenomena in her family home just outside Toronto. From a mischievous spectral boy seen by the whole family to disembodied voices and a chilling sense of dread, their experiences were chalked up to "ghosts" as a family joke. But the story takes a strange turn when the spirit of "Robert Barber" appears in her dad's dream, a name that has a bizarre connection to a local mill and perhaps even her grandfather.
https://www.theifp.ca/news/is-robert-barber-haunting-his-former-mill/article_4f000b62-5015-568e-8ee7-4eb3a1d4f70f.html
https://freaktography.com/abandoned-barber-paper-mill/
https://ominous.app/browse/site/603

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, a listener shares her stories of a childhood filled with unexplained phenomena in her family home just outside Toronto. From a mischievous spectral boy seen by the whole family to disembodied voices and a chilling sense of dread, their experiences were chalked up to "ghosts" as a family joke. But the story takes a strange turn when the spirit of "Robert Barber" appears in her dad's dream, a name that has a bizarre connection to a local mill and perhaps even her grandfather.<br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.theifp.ca/news/is-robert-barber-haunting-his-former-mill/article_4f000b62-5015-568e-8ee7-4eb3a1d4f70f.html"><br>https://www.theifp.ca/news/is-robert-barber-haunting-his-former-mill/article_4f000b62-5015-568e-8ee7-4eb3a1d4f70f.html</a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://freaktography.com/abandoned-barber-paper-mill/"><br>https://freaktography.com/abandoned-barber-paper-mill/<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://ominous.app/browse/site/603">https://ominous.app/browse/site/603<br></a><br>
</div>

Unwanted Houseguests

This week, we dive into a viral story that is captivating social media and stirring global debate — a supposed discovery beneath the sands of Giza that some are calling the find of the century. Descriptions of a vast, multi-level complex with geometric passageways, deep shafts, and mysterious chambers have sparked theories ranging from ancient power plants to the legendary Halls of Amenti. Could this be a groundbreaking revelation? A misinterpretation of data? Something even stranger? We’ll explore the evidence, the claims, and the science behind this unfolding mystery to form some theories of our own. So join us as we examine another layer to one of history’s most enduring enigmas.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/30/ep-307-what-lies-beneath-the-pyramids-of-egypt) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>This week, we dive into a viral story that is captivating social media and stirring global debate — a supposed discovery beneath the sands of Giza that some are calling the find of the century. Descriptions of a vast, multi-level complex with geometric passageways, deep shafts, and mysterious chambers have sparked theories ranging from ancient power plants to the legendary Halls of Amenti. Could this be a groundbreaking revelation? A misinterpretation of data? Something even stranger? We’ll explore the evidence, the claims, and the science behind this unfolding mystery to form some theories of our own. So join us as we examine another layer to one of history’s most enduring enigmas.<br><br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/30/ep-307-what-lies-beneath-the-pyramids-of-egypt">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.</div>

What Lies Beneath the Pyramids of Egypt

In tonight’s dead letter, we delve into a truly bizarre family tale spanning generations. Taylor shares her mother's childhood encounter with a giant, tuxedo-clad bunny rabbit residing in her friend's shower—a story echoed by her own childhood sighting of a similar figure.  Could this be a family secret, a shared hallucination, or something far more uncanny?

Púca (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C3%BAca)

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, we delve into a truly bizarre family tale spanning generations. Taylor shares her mother's childhood encounter with a giant, tuxedo-clad bunny rabbit residing in her friend's shower—a story echoed by her own childhood sighting of a similar figure.  Could this be a family secret, a shared hallucination, or something far more uncanny?<br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C3%BAca">Púca</a>
</div>

Bunny in a Tuxedo

This week, we welcome master storyteller, podcaster, and comedian Dan Cummins, creator of the hit shows Timesuck and Scared to Death. Known for his deep dives into historical mysteries and the supernatural, Dan brings scholarly research paired with sharp wit. We’ve long admired the quality and depth of his work, which often parallels our own. Our conversation spans his paranormal encounters, the eerie legend of Rasputin, and a bizarre experience he had that mirrors one of Scott’s — with coincidences too strange to ignore. We’ll also explore Dan’s unique path into podcasting, his prolific creative output, and his passion for the unexplained. Plus, Scott shares a story from his recent visit to the Rhine Institute in Durham, where he learned about cutting-edge research into human bioluminescence.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/22/ep-306-a-scared-to-death-timesuck-with-dan-cummins) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>This week, we welcome master storyteller, podcaster, and comedian Dan Cummins, creator of the hit shows <em>Timesuck</em> and <em>Scared to Death</em>. Known for his deep dives into historical mysteries and the supernatural, Dan brings scholarly research paired with sharp wit. We’ve long admired the quality and depth of his work, which often parallels our own. Our conversation spans his paranormal encounters, the eerie legend of Rasputin, and a bizarre experience he had that mirrors one of Scott’s — with coincidences too strange to ignore. We’ll also explore Dan’s unique path into podcasting, his prolific creative output, and his passion for the unexplained. Plus, Scott shares a story from his recent visit to the Rhine Institute in Durham, where he learned about cutting-edge research into human bioluminescence.<br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/22/ep-306-a-scared-to-death-timesuck-with-dan-cummins">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.<br><br>
</div>

A Scared to Death Timesuck with Dan Cummins

In tonight’s Dead Letter, we explore a mysterious phone call received by long-time listener Michelle in the 1980s.  The caller identified himself as "Uncle Bill," a relative she had never known, leaving a lasting impression on her and her family.  Her parents' stunned reaction to the call adds to the unsettling mystery.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_Call_(The_Twilight_Zone)
https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/last-call-3/

<div>In tonight’s Dead Letter, we explore a mysterious phone call received by long-time listener Michelle in the 1980s.  The caller identified himself as "Uncle Bill," a relative she had never known, leaving a lasting impression on her and her family.  Her parents' stunned reaction to the call adds to the unsettling mystery.<br><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_Call_(The_Twilight_Zone)">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_Call_(The_Twilight_Zone)<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/last-call-3/">https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/last-call-3/<br></a><br>
</div>

A Call From Beyond

Due to an error last week, this Dead Letter Office didn't make it to the main feed so here it is now! There's a NEW one tomorrow too!

In tonight’s dead letter, we explore the chilling tales of paranormal activity at a haunted firehouse, as recounted by volunteer firefighter Ken Sanner Jr.  Ken details a series of unsettling events, from flickering lights and moving objects to disembodied voices and unexplained shadows—even a heavy metal door mysteriously opening on a windless day. There’s something more than meets they eye going on at this place, but what?

<div>Due to an error last week, this Dead Letter Office didn't make it to the main feed so here it is now! There's a NEW one tomorrow too! <br><br>In tonight’s dead letter, we explore the chilling tales of paranormal activity at a haunted firehouse, as recounted by volunteer firefighter Ken Sanner Jr.  Ken details a series of unsettling events, from flickering lights and moving objects to disembodied voices and unexplained shadows—even a heavy metal door mysteriously opening on a windless day. There’s something more than meets they eye going on at this place, but what?</div>

The Haunted Firehouse

On the night of February 25, 1942, less than three months after Pearl Harbor, Los Angeles was gripped by fear as air raid sirens wailed and a total blackout stretched to the Mexican border. Powerful arc lamps lit up the sky, and anti-aircraft guns fired wildly as reports of enemy aircraft flooded in — some claiming planes crashed down across the city, though no wreckage was found. Even military leaders couldn’t agree on what had happened. Some dismissing it as a false alarm, while others insisted non-U.S. aircraft were present. Eyewitnesses, including trained military observers, described seeing strange, slow-moving objects — one even shaped like a butterfly — and estimating anywhere from 1 to 25 of these aircraft. Decades later, declassified documents suggested the military misled the public, with one army chief allegedly reporting to President Roosevelt that the craft were likely of interplanetary origin. This week, we travel back to 1942 to sift through the conflicting reports, from that night and beyond, to help theorize the true nature of the so-called "Battle of Los Angeles."

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/08/ep-305-battle-of-los-angeles) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>On the night of February 25, 1942, less than three months after Pearl Harbor, Los Angeles was gripped by fear as air raid sirens wailed and a total blackout stretched to the Mexican border. Powerful arc lamps lit up the sky, and anti-aircraft guns fired wildly as reports of enemy aircraft flooded in — some claiming planes crashed down across the city, though no wreckage was found. Even military leaders couldn’t agree on what had happened. Some dismissing it as a false alarm, while others insisted non-U.S. aircraft were present. Eyewitnesses, including trained military observers, described seeing strange, slow-moving objects — one even shaped like a butterfly — and estimating anywhere from 1 to 25 of these aircraft. Decades later, declassified documents suggested the military misled the public, with one army chief allegedly reporting to President Roosevelt that the craft were likely of interplanetary origin. This week, we travel back to 1942 to sift through the conflicting reports, from that night and beyond, to help theorize the true nature of the so-called "Battle of Los Angeles."<br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/03/08/ep-305-battle-of-los-angeles">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.</div>

Battle of Los Angeles

In tonight’s dead letter, we explore a listener’s astonishing story connecting to the infamous USS Nimitz Tic-Tac UFO incident.  Mike recounts childhood encounters with doppelgangers and later, his ex-wife's dream of grays influencing her pregnancy. Their son even refers to a "space dad," adding another layer to this already unbelievable tale. We were shocked to get a dead letter directly connected to such a major UAP event, and it has some wild implications about how far-reaching and multi-faceted a UAP encounter can be.

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, we explore a listener’s astonishing story connecting to the infamous USS Nimitz Tic-Tac UFO incident.  Mike recounts childhood encounters with doppelgangers and later, his ex-wife's dream of grays influencing her pregnancy. Their son even refers to a "space dad," adding another layer to this already unbelievable tale. We were shocked to get a dead letter directly connected to such a major UAP event, and it has some wild implications about how far-reaching and multi-faceted a UAP encounter can be.</div>

Not of this Earth

In tonight’s dead letter, we delve into a truly astonishing story from listener Gus about his daughter Tara. Tara's coworker, on her last shift before college, revealed he could see spirits and described three surrounding Tara – her deceased grandparents and grandmother, accurately detailing their names, causes of death, and even the months they passed. Then he made a startling observation about Gus himself. There are those that think that all psychics are con artists or expert cold readers, but does this story fit that mold?

<div>In tonight’s dead letter, we delve into a truly astonishing story from listener Gus about his daughter Tara. Tara's coworker, on her last shift before college, revealed he could see spirits and described three surrounding Tara – her deceased grandparents and grandmother, accurately detailing their names, causes of death, and even the months they passed. Then he made a startling observation about Gus himself. There are those that think that all psychics are con artists or expert cold readers, but does this story fit that mold?</div>

The Co-Worker's Gift

In the fall of 1829, a Scottish settlement was thrown into turmoil by an invisible tormentor whose nightly mischief escalated into arson. Despite constant watch and attempted exorcisms, flames erupted repeatedly in one targeted home until its terrified occupants fled, only to see it burn to the ground. Seeking refuge in a neighboring house, they were again assailed by eerie noises, flickering blue candle flames, strange embers, and the sulfuric scent of brimstone. More disturbingly, unseen forces pelted them with lead balls and slugs—harmless but relentless. Unable to endure the torment any longer, the villagers summoned a witch doctor in hopes of banishing the fiend once and for all. This week, we are joined by local expert Dr. Rick Fehr for a deep dive into the origins of this legend.

Visit our website (https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/02/22/ep-304-the-baldoon-mystery-with-dr-rick-fehr) for a lot more information on this episode.

<div>In the fall of 1829, a Scottish settlement was thrown into turmoil by an invisible tormentor whose nightly mischief escalated into arson. Despite constant watch and attempted exorcisms, flames erupted repeatedly in one targeted home until its terrified occupants fled, only to see it burn to the ground. Seeking refuge in a neighboring house, they were again assailed by eerie noises, flickering blue candle flames, strange embers, and the sulfuric scent of brimstone. More disturbingly, unseen forces pelted them with lead balls and slugs—harmless but relentless. Unable to endure the torment any longer, the villagers summoned a witch doctor in hopes of banishing the fiend once and for all. This week, we are joined by local expert Dr. Rick Fehr for a deep dive into the origins of this legend.<br><br>Visit our <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2025/02/22/ep-304-the-baldoon-mystery-with-dr-rick-fehr">website</a> for a lot more information on this episode.</div>

The Baldoon Mystery with Dr. Rick Fehr

Listener Chloe’s Dead Letter starts out talking about the infamous Greyfriars Kirkyard. One of the earliest topics on the main show here at Astonishing Legends. It quickly transitions to her visit to the Edinburgh underground vaults and an unsettling experience she had there on a ghost tour.

The Astonishing Dead Letter Office - Where Your Stories Die to be Told
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyfriars_Kirkyard
https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2016/12/8/ep-003-greyfriars-kirkyard-halloween-special?rq=greyfriars
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh_Vaults

<div>Listener Chloe’s Dead Letter starts out talking about the infamous Greyfriars Kirkyard. One of the earliest topics on the main show here at Astonishing Legends. It quickly transitions to her visit to the Edinburgh underground vaults and an unsettling experience she had there on a ghost tour.<br><br>The Astonishing Dead Letter Office - Where Your Stories Die to be Told<br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyfriars_Kirkyard"><br>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyfriars_Kirkyard<br></a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2016/12/8/ep-003-greyfriars-kirkyard-halloween-special?rq=greyfriars">https://astonishinglegends.com/al-podcasts/2016/12/8/ep-003-greyfriars-kirkyard-halloween-special?rq=greyfriars</a><br><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh_Vaults"><br>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh_Vaults<br></a><br>
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Peripheral Presence

The world is more mysterious than most people are comfortable imagining. We cross paths with the mystical from time to time and may not even notice it. If we do, we quickly return to our usually mundane daily existence. But what if we not only acknowledged the unknown, we investigated it and spoke with those in the know? That's what co-hosts Scott Philbrook & Forrest Burgess, and co-executive producer Tess Pfeifle do at Astonishing Legends. Over 100 million downloads and hundreds of thousands of listeners have discovered the thrill of exploring the mysteries of our world, showing that the unknown can be both captivating and intriguing. Welcome to Astonishing Legends!

<div>The world is more mysterious than most people are comfortable imagining. We cross paths with the mystical from time to time and may not even notice it. If we do, we quickly return to our usually mundane daily existence. But what if we not only acknowledged the unknown, we investigated it and spoke with those in the know? That's what co-hosts Scott Philbrook &amp; Forrest Burgess, and co-executive producer Tess Pfeifle do at Astonishing Legends. Over 100 million downloads and hundreds of thousands of listeners have discovered the thrill of exploring the mysteries of our world, showing that the unknown can be both captivating and intriguing. Welcome to Astonishing Legends!</div>

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