Are ghosts real — or just really good stories? In our Halloween episode, we dive into one of humanity’s oldest haunting questions: What are ghosts, and why do so many people believe in them?

From our own personal encounters and our opinions on life after death to Bloody Mary and possession movies, we explore the draw of these powerful stories. We also ask: can people still be “possessed,” or has modern science exorcised the idea for good?

Episode Resources & Easter Eggs:

Paranormal & Pop Culture:

• Do other people believe in ghosts? Giddy on over to the Gallup poll.
• Learn about Dia de los Muertos (+2 to participate in the upcoming festivities!)
• Who is Bloody Mary?
• Ever used a Ouija board?
• Learn a little (or a lot) about jinn (or genies).
• Watch every Paranormal Activity movie (+2 to reenact).

 Philosophy & Religion:

• Study the differences between an arhat and a bodhisattva.
• Read about Nirvana (not the band).
• A thermodynamics lesson: nothing is ever destroyed.
• Look at a photo of Pope Leo.
• Read about Saint John Chrysostom, the provider of this week’s wisdom!

 Repeat Characters:

• If this is your third time reading Brahman in the show notes, click the link!
• Watch Avatar the Last Airbender (or don’t!)

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Music Credit: “They Come at Night,” from silvermansound.com (2021).