Haunted Talks

There are many people who have claimed to be able to contact the dead. Some identify as mediums or seers or psychics, saying they have a special ability to connect to the other side. For the purposes of this episode, we're not exploring or questioning the practice of séances or the identity of mediums; we're specifically looking at historical figures who have been exposed as frauds who were in the business solely to make money. Their crimes, which were extremely widespread in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were not victimless and ended up tarnishing the reputation of genuine spiritualists and investigators, still affecting the validity of paranormal research to this day.

Last year around this time, a new horror-themed bookstore opened in Toronto. Little Ghosts Bookstore and Café, with its fittingly eerie name, quickly became a favourite destination for bookworms, horror aficionados, and authors alike. We're thrilled to have owner, Chris Krawczyk, with us to share what it is like running this unique business. As an added bonus, Chris will also be providing us with some fantastic suggestions for our spooky spring and summer reading lists, which you won't want to miss.

SPOILER ALERT! – Scroll Down to See Chris's Top 5 Recommendations

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Little Ghost Books' Top 5 Books for a Spooky Spring & Summer

# 1. A Blackness Absolute – Caitlin Marceau # 2. Abnormal Statistics – Max Booth # 3. Monstrilio – Gerardo Sámano Córdova # 4. LingHun – AI Jiang # 5. Tell Me I'm Worthless – Alison Rumfitt

The sinking of Titanic continues to captivate our imaginations, but could there have been premonitions of the disaster? In this episode, retired professor Terry Keefe, author of "Premonitions of the Titanic Disaster," shares some of the over 200 intriguing cases of premonitions and forewarnings related to the ill-fated luxury steamship. Drawing from difficult-to-obtain or out-of-print sources, Professor Keefe presents chilling accounts of people who may have experienced inexplicable phenomena about the looming tragedy. From psychic visions to prophetic dreams, join us as we delve into a mysterious element of the Titanic story and reflect on the possibility of premonitions and their impact on the most famous maritime disaster in history. Get ready for a fresh perspective that will leave you intrigued by the supernatural clues to the Titanic disaster.

In December 2003, the body of Joyce Carol Vincent was discovered in her London apartment. She had been dead for over two years. When the remains were found, her television set was still on and flickering away in the corner, Christmas presents were wrapped for the big day, and dishes were piled and patiently waiting to be washed in the sink. How did this happen? Who was this woman? How did no one notice that she had vanished from life? As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there were darker forces at play in Joyce's life, and that her isolation was not entirely by choice.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone and help is available in Canada, the US, and all over the world.

It is the 101st anniversary of one of the most perplexing and haunting true crime cases we have ever examined – the Hinterkaifeck Murders. Even though it has been 5 years since we first released this episode, we still often think about it and wonder what happened on that isolated farmstead on that fateful and dreadful night. Full of terrible twists and unsettling turns, it is one of the world's most chilling mysteries. What was the motive for such a night of terror? We search for answers with Edward Chilvers, author of Footsteps in the Attic: A True Account of the Slayings at the Hinterkaifeck Farmstead.

Due to some of the nightmarish elements of the story, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Join us as we explore the fascinating lives and careers of John Radclive and Arthur Ellis, two men who were tasked with carrying out the ultimate punishment – the death penalty. With hundreds of hangings between them, both have a claim to the title of Canada's Hangman. We delve into the complex and often controversial world of capital punishment, and the profound impact it can have on those responsible for administering justice. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast or simply curious about this dark chapter in Canadian history, this is a must-listen episode. Tune in now to learn more about these enigmatic and compelling figures.

Warning: The episode contains graphic descriptions of hangings. Please, take care.

Other Haunted Talks episodes mentioned in the show:

Ep 59 – The Unknown Hangman – Questions surround the identity of an unknown hangman in Alberta. Ep 129 – Canadian Women & Capital Punishment – We examine the rare occasions when women were executed and the circumstances surrounding those cases.

Our guest, Dr. Richard Gallagher, is a well-known psychiatrist, author, and professor who has spent his career studying the intersection of psychology, spirituality, and the supernatural. One area of Dr. Gallagher's expertise that has garnered significant attention is his work with demonic possession and exorcism. He has evaluated and treated many individuals who claim to be possessed by evil entities and has served as a consultant on numerous high-profile cases of alleged possession. In this capacity as the consultant for Exorcists, Dr. Gallagher has undoubtedly seen more cases of possession – many quite disturbing – than any other physician in the world. He has also written extensively on the topic, including his recent book, "Demonic Foes: My Twenty-Five Years as a Psychiatrist Investigating Possessions, Diabolic Attacks, and the Paranormal."

Other Haunted Talks episodes mentioned in the interview:

Ep 124 – The First Ghosts – Dr. Irving Finkle Ep 146 – Hospital Exorcisms – Dr. Paul Blair

Join us as we delve into the world of paranormal investigation with Elliot and Cory from Phantoms of Yore. We've been collaborating with them for 5 years on public investigations at some of the most haunted historic sites in Ontario. Due to their unique and exclusive nature, these events are extremely popular. In the episode, Elliot and Cory share with us their experiences and philosophy in conducting and leading these investigations. They also brought along some spine-chilling EVPs and other audio anomalies captured by themselves and participants at these historic sites. Get ready to be amazed (and spooked!) as you listen to some of these eerie recordings. Tune in to this episode of Haunted Talks to hear all about Phantoms of Yore's adventures with the paranormal.

Visit our Public Paranormal Investigations page to see all upcoming investigations with Phantoms of Yore. The spring 2023 schedule will be announced in April.

The mere mention of the mysterious practice of "exorcisms" can make us feel uneasy, conjuring up images of demonic possession and a struggle between good and evil beyond human comprehension. Our guest on this episode, Dr. Paul Blair, is a healthcare chaplain at the Riverview Heath Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, who recently wrote a doctoral dissertation about exorcisms. We'll discuss the reasons why exorcisms are needed, the myths and misconceptions surrounding them, and the crucial role of qualified individuals in carrying out these rituals. Paul also shares a few of the eerie experiences of his healthcare colleagues and discusses some of the exorcisms that he has performed in the hospital.

Join us for the gripping conclusion to our three-part mini-series on Edward Bulwer-Lytton's classic gothic tale, 'The Haunted and the Haunters.' After a terrifying night, our protagonist attempts to unravel the mysteries of the haunted house. Was it real or just imagination? In the end, he makes a startling discovery that challenges his perceptions of reality and imagination. This discovery sheds new light on the events of the story and raises more questions about the haunted house and its history. The conclusion is both surprising and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact and adding to the suspenseful and frightening atmosphere of the story.

Be sure to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 before venturing into the finale!