Monstras

Did you know that right across the border in Tijuana existed an amazing, rich, and incredible resort? Patronized by some of the biggest celebrities at the time, Agua Caliente was so incredible that it was the inspiration for Las Vegas! Even though it only existed for a short amount of time, Agua Caliente has left us with some legendary stories, including one about a headless ballerina...

TW: Suicide, alcohol, beheading, random train sounds, and rich people. 

Theme song by Patrick Mullens

Story excerpt at the beginning by Paul J. Vanderwood, "Agua Caliente Resort and Casino"

Music from the beginning is Carioca by the Gerry Mulligan Quartet.

This is part II of our Santa Muerte series! Our last one on Santa Muerte, as much as we like talking about her. We get to talking about the Catholic Church and the history of Santa Muerte. Orquidea also interviews Professor William Calvo Quiros from the University of Michigan who will shine his expert light on Santa Muerte and his followers. 

Warnings: death, transphobia, Catholic church, a burp

Theme song: Patrick Mullens

Beginning song: By haniebal 

If you want to skip the interview it starts at 33:15 and ends 51:15

Can we worship death? In this first part of a two part episode we ask that question and several others. We begin by exploring the story of Mark Kilroy and his ritualistic murder. Was Mark Kilroy's murderers really Santa Muerte worshipers? Find out. 

Warnings: Sodomy, murder, dismemberment, satanism, narcos, and human sacrifice

Theme song by Patrick Mullens

Other songs by Timbre

This episode examines Day of the Dead, now a popular celebration in the US (kind of), we explore its origins and modern interpretations. And yes we know it's not quite a monster but we do talk about colonialism and isn't that the true monster? 

Warnings: death, after life, dog eating, cultural appropriation 

This episode is also dedicated to Orquidea's great aunt Luz who passed away earlier this year. 

Theme song by Patrick Mullens 

Aliens are monsters?! Depends on who you ask! We tackle the Ancient Aliens nonsense and we're both not happy about it. 

Warnings: Aliens and Alien sex 

Theme Song by Patrick Mullens

We're taking a look at the undead this week! Traveling to Haiti we will be exploring the origins of the zombie and how its grown into the brain eating phenom-nom it is today.

Warnings: cannibalism, slavery, murder 

Theme Song by Patrick Mullens  

We invite you to listen to the first episode of Monstras, a podcast that explores the folklore and history surrounding popular monsters from Latin America. Our debut episode features La Llorona also known as the "wailing woman."  

Warnings: Suicide, murder, child death

Story by Maria Gavia

Theme Song by Patrick Mullens