Don't Look Now

We discuss the Marian apparition of Fatima, Portugal in 1917, as well as other famous sightings of the Virgin Mary.  From May to September 1917 three children claimed to see Mary in the hills near Fatima, Portugal.  They say she spoke to them and revealed three secrets.  What were those secrets and how does the Catholic Church categorize miraculous sightings?  Find out in this week's episode.

Come learn about the history of the common spud, from it's original cultivation in the Andes to it's spread to Europe where it cured famine.  How did the potato go from a poisonous tuber that could only be consumed with detoxifying clay to one of the five largest staple foods in the world?  Listen in and find out. 

We discuss some famous/infamous hoaxes of archeology, from Ancient Egyptians in Spain with Hercules carvings, to ancient skulls in California, and figurines of people riding dinosaurs in Mexico.  Come learn about some of the more dubious history of archeological science. 

Since the beginning of recorded time people have seen things in the sky that the could not readily identify.  Weird atmospheric phenomenon, birds, meteors, sun dogs, and glories have mystified people since our beginnings.  However, more recently people have begun to wonder if any of these strange objects are extra-terrestrial craft.  We discuss the phenomenon of UFOs from mentions of crosses in the sky over a thousand years ago to claims of abduction today. 

Today we discuss cultural specific ailments or culture specific disorders.  From delusions of constantly shrinking genitals, to spirit possession and random violent outbursts, we cover illnesses that are considered a recognizable disease in some cultures and bizarre in others.  

We discuss the so called Forty Elephants, an all female crime gang active in London from the 1870s to the 1990s.  Specializing in high end retail shoplifting, they were known for dressing extravagantly, living glamorously, and making off with clothes and jewels hidden in secret pockets all through their clothes.

We discuss the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.  Was the cow to blame and if not, why have people pinned the disaster on a poor Irish woman?  Come learn about the background of the fire, what really happened, and what became of Mrs. O'Leary.

We discuss the history of Valentine’s Day and its traditions.  From the Roman festival of Lupercalia, to the creation of Valentines cards and conversation hearts. Come join us on a journey through Valentine’s Days past.

We discuss the collapse of societies.  None of history's great cultures have stood the test of time.  All fall eventually.  What causes the collapse of a society or culture?  You will find that the causes can be myriad, from poor harvests to exploding meteorites.

We discuss a topic near and dear to about 12 percent of the world's population: left-handedness.  This one goes out to all the southpaws, corrie-fisted, golly-handed, mollydookers, and cuddy wifters out there.  Learn some history of left handedness from around the world and find out which of the afore mentioned terms drives Jeni nuts.