If you want ad-free episodes, bonus content, free merch, and eternal happiness—because our podcast is a guaranteed mood booster (probably)—please consider subscribing to us either on Patreon or via the Spreaker Supporters Club. Head to rainydayrabbitholes.com/support for more information.

Discover the outrageous life of Henry Yesler, one of Seattle’s founding fathers! From his free-love lifestyle to wild business schemes, Yesler's story is packed with scandal and surprises. Join Shea and guest Bryon Kershaw (Spirits & Monsters of Old Seattle podcast) for a hilarious and jaw-dropping dive into Seattle history.

What You’ll Learn:

• The origins of "Skid Row" and how Yesler reshaped Seattle’s landscape.
• Yesler’s scandalous lottery and other audacious business ventures.
• The shocking details of Yesler’s personal life, including his marriage to his cousin.

Timestamps: 0:36 – Who was Henry Yesler? 5:35 – Seattle’s real seasons—a hilarious breakdown. 22:57 – Yesler’s lottery scheme—and its messy aftermath. 42:14 – Yesler’s eyebrow-raising marriage scandal. 

 Don’t miss this deep dive into Seattle’s wild history! Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments.

https://www.spiritsandmonsters.com/

Sources include Sons of the Profits by Bill Speidel and History Link.org, as always! Big thanks to the historians at historylink.org

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

In this whimsical episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we dive into one of Washington state’s quirkiest political scandals: Beardgate ’73. Governor Dan Evans—known for his sharp mind and clean-cut image—set off a bizarre chain reaction when he grew a beard during a family vacation. While the beard’s time was short-lived, the drama it unleashed was unforgettable.

From letters comparing him to Rip Van Winkle to accusations of looking like a “wild timber wolf,” Washingtonians didn’t hold back their opinions. But amidst the laughter, we also reflect on Evans’ remarkable legacy as a leader, one whose policies left an enduring impact on the state.

Be sure to tune in for laughs, insights, and a story that proves even the smallest decisions can make big waves.

✨ Website: rainydayrabbitholes.com
🌧 Support Our Work: Join us on Patreon or Spreaker’s Supporters Club! rainydayrabbitholes.com/support
☂ Explore Our Collective: Find other great shows in our podcast umbrella! rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella

🎙️ Hashtags:
#RainyDayRabbitHoles #PodcastLife #PodcastEpisode #Beardgate #DanEvans #WashingtonHistory #PoliticalScandals #BeardLove #RetroPolitics #QuirkyHistory #TrueStories #HumorInPolitics #PodcastCommunity #ListenerSupport #IndependentPodcasts

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What do you get when you mix cadets, contraband whiskey, and a strict military academy? An absolutely legendary holiday debacle known as the Eggnog Riot!

This week on Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we’re serving up a festive tale of rebellion, smashed furniture, and boozy eggnog that got a little too rowdy.

Learn how West Point’s “Father of Discipline,” Colonel Sylvanus Thayer, tried to keep the cadets in line—and how their Christmas Eve plot to blow off steam turned into a full-scale mutiny. Plus, did you know eggnog has medieval roots and was a favorite of George Washington? Yeah, we’re spilling all the (spiked) tea in this episode.

Don’t forget to check out our Patreon at https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/support or join the Spreaker Supporter’s Club for exclusive bonus content and other perks!

We’re part of the Umbrella Collective—find out more about this amazing podcast network at https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella.

Grab your eggnog (we won’t ask what’s in it) and get ready for a wild ride into history’s most festive fiasco!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

This Week's Bonus Episode: Hear a conversation cut from the main episode this week, where Jody, Shea, and Kevin Ryan sit down for a lighthearted chat about Irish stereotypes and cultural quirks. From the best ways to compliment someone in Ireland to breaking down preconceived notions, it’s the perfect way to round off the week!

Follow Kevin: Dive into Kevin's podcast at tyrantintraining.io.

Patreon Bonus Content: Want ad-free episodes and exclusive content? Support us on Patreon. rainydayrabbitholes.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

Get Ad-Free Episodes on Patreon: Want exclusive, ad-free episodes? Visit us on Patreon, link at rainydayrabbitholes.com.

This Week's Episode: Shea & Jody welcome the hilarious Kevin Ryan of Tyrant In Training, a podcast where guests live out their inner tyrannical fantasies. Jody dives into the rise and fall of Mark Driscoll and the Mars Hill Church. From salacious sermons to cult-like scandals, we’re breaking it all down with laughter and a bit of shock.

Follow Kevin: Check out Kevin's podcast at tyrantintraining.io and follow him for more hilarity!

Umbrella Podcast Collective: Kevin is part of the Umbrella Podcast Collective—a little cult of podcasters with big ideas. Learn more at rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella.

Tags: #MarsHillChurch, #MarkDriscoll, #TyrantInTraining, #UmbrellaPodcastCollective, #FunnyPodcast, #CultPodcast, #ScandalousSermons, #ReligionDebate, #HistoryOfReligion, #PodcastCollab, #TyrannyUnleashed, #PodcastCommunity, #RainyDayRabbitHoles, #PacificNorthwest, #JodyAndShea, #FYP, #ViralPodcast

Sources: Edinburg Scotland Sex, a Study of the Good Bits from Song of Solomon

Archive of Driscoll Sermons at Mars Hill Church

Grace and Lies - The Mars Hill Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-SI2OgePrk

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Driscoll

Rise and fall of Mars Hill Church

Driscoll's current sermon vile website

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

Bonus Episode: Jason’s UPS Tales—Luxury, Laughs, and a Dash of Roca

What’s it like handling packages worth tens of thousands of dollars for a luxury-loving guru? Rainy Day Rabbit Holes Podcast is diving into the world of JZ Knight from an unexpected angle: Shea’s brother Jason joins us for a hilarious and jaw-dropping bonus episode!

Jason recounts his time working for UPS, where he processed packages for JZ Knight—packages filled with high-end goods going to Rodeo Drive. He paints a vivid picture of Knight’s opulent lifestyle during her heyday.

 But that’s not all! Jason shares the ultimate prank he pulled on his boss, involving none other than the maker of Almond Roca. It’s a story that’ll have you laughing out loud and appreciating the creativity of a good joke.

What You’ll Hear:

• Insider tidbits about J.Z. Knight’s luxurious habits.
• The logistics of handling high-value packages at UPS.
• The hilarity of a Bart Simpson-level prank that brought some levity to Jason’s workplace.
• A little more about Shea and Jason’s sibling dynamic as they reminisce and laugh together.

If you’ve already been captivated by our two-part series on J.Z. Knight, this bonus episode is the perfect cherry on top. It’s equal parts fascinating and funny!

Listen now at Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t forget to check out our previous J.Z. Knight episodes, also available now!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

🎧 Listen to the episode and join our Patreon at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com

💡 Learn more about podcasts like ours at the Umbrella Podcast Collective: www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella

🛠️ Support Justin Robinson: Rev’s Geek Out Patreon

In part two of our series, we move beyond the feel-good façade of the Ramtha School of Enlightenment and dive into the shadows. From shocking allegations of abuse to the spread of dangerous medical misinformation, we explore the scandals that have haunted J.Z. Knight’s empire. We also discuss her surprising shift to far-right politics, including QAnon conspiracies and her vocal support of Donald Trump. With returning guest Justin Robinson, we unpack the darker truths of this once-celebrated guru. This one’s not for the faint of heart!

Sources: 
https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/intelligence-report/2014/ramtha-riled
https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/shocking-allegations-from-former-jz-knight-follower
https://medium.com/the-narrative-arc/charles-manson-and-jz-knight-3d765803fb7e
https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/guess-whos-a-big-trump-fan-ramtha-as-channeled-by-democratic-donor-jz-knight/
https://www.seattleweekly.com/news/among-the-odd-spiritual-teachings-of-jz-knight-the-wizard-of-yelm/
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._Z._Knight
https://www.reddit.com/r/behindthebastards/comments/10a3pfj/meet_jz_knight_the_bastard_who_claims_to_channel/
https://www.chronline.com/stories/in-thurston-county-jz-knight-among-president-trumps-biggest-donors,308
https://www.thedailybeast.com/qanon-teams-up-with-alleged-cult-leader
https://www.kiro7.com/news/obscenity-laced-video-jz-knight-causes-political-s/246632097/
https://www.freedomfoundation.com/labor/thurston-county-dems-accept-money-from-jz-knight-again/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramtha%27s_School_of_Enlightenment
https://www.ramtha.com/
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2022/11/jz-knight-ramtha-yelm-washington-school-of-enlightenment
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2012/10/democrats-respond-to-donor-jz-knights-rant-send-money-to-r-74
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2012/10/monday-jolt-ramtha
https://www.vulture.com/2020/10/looking-back-at-mark-vicentes-what-the-usd-do-we-k-now.html
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/what-is-cult-hopping-nxivm-dos-838750/
https://www.nydailynews.com/2019/05/16/from-one-strange-cult-to-another-nxivm-whistleblower-had-served-in-another-sect-ids-doctor-as-member-who-branded-women/
https://frankreport.com/2022/01/26/vicente-to-publish-memoir-quest-how-the-bleep-did-that-happen/
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/pseudo-scientific-oddity-became-a-cult-favourite/
https://culteducation.com/group/1113-ramtha-school-of-enlightenment/17834-what-the-is-ramtha-.html

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

 Bonus Episode – "Prohibition: The Buzz Kill That Boosted Crime"

Cheers to Repeal Day! 🥂 

This special bonus episode celebrates December 5th, the anniversary of Prohibition’s repeal in 1933. Shea dives into the wild history of Prohibition, its unintended consequences, and how it fueled the rise of organized crime. Shea is joined by her big brother Jason to celebrate this special day!

Plus, we highlight Washington State’s unique role in the Prohibition saga—banning booze early in 1914 and repealing its laws even before the national repeal.

Want to hear more about the local legend Roy Olmstead, Seattle’s “good bootlegger”? Check out Episode 36: Smooth Criminal – Roy Olmstead.

Looking for more Rainy Day Rabbit Holes fun? Visit our website to explore past episodes and exclusive content, including ad-free episodes when you join us on Patreon!
🐇 Click here to join.

Referenced Articles:

• HistoryLink: Prohibition in Washington State
• UW: Prohibition in Seattle

Follow us on socials for more rabbit holes!

🎥 TikTok | 📘 Facebook | 🐦 Twitter





Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

Do you want ad-free episodes, bonus content, and merch?  Plus Part 2 of this episode right now? Sign up for the Patreon! Visit www.rainydayrabbitholes.com for more!

How does an ordinary woman from Yelm, Washington, become the channel for a 35,000-year-old warrior spirit? And how does that turn into a multi-million-dollar new-age empire? In part one of this two-part series, we explore the rise of J.Z. Knight and the Ramtha School of Enlightenment.

Together with Justin Robinson from the Rev’s Geek Out podcast, we uncover how J.Z. built her following, the allure of her mystical teachings, and the cultural backdrop that made the Pacific Northwest the perfect stage for this story. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, this episode will have you questioning what you think you know about spirituality and charisma.

Want to listen to Part 2 now? Join the Patreon! For just $5 per month you get ad-free episodes a day early, plus bonus episodes and more! Head on over to our website at rainydayrabbitholes.com to sign up!

Want more of the Rev? Sign up for his FREE Patreon to listen! https://www.thereverendenfuego.com/revs-geek-out

Want to discover your next great listen? Check out the line up of podcasts in the Umbrella Podcast Collective! rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella

Check out this house!!  https://seattlerefined.com/the-home/oppenheimer-house

Sources: 
https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/intelligence-report/2014/ramtha-riled
https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/shocking-allegations-from-former-jz-knight-follower
https://medium.com/the-narrative-arc/charles-manson-and-jz-knight-3d765803fb7e
https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/politics/guess-whos-a-big-trump-fan-ramtha-as-channeled-by-democratic-donor-jz-knight/
https://www.seattleweekly.com/news/among-the-odd-spiritual-teachings-of-jz-knight-the-wizard-of-yelm/
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._Z._Knight
https://www.reddit.com/r/behindthebastards/comments/10a3pfj/meet_jz_knight_the_bastard_who_claims_to_channel/
https://www.chronline.com/stories/in-thurston-county-jz-knight-among-president-trumps-biggest-donors,308
https://www.thedailybeast.com/qanon-teams-up-with-alleged-cult-leader
https://www.kiro7.com/news/obscenity-laced-video-jz-knight-causes-political-s/246632097/
https://www.freedomfoundation.com/labor/thurston-county-dems-accept-money-from-jz-knight-again/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramtha%27s_School_of_Enlightenment
https://www.ramtha.com/
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2022/11/jz-knight-ramtha-yelm-washington-school-of-enlightenment
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2012/10/democrats-respond-to-donor-jz-knights-rant-send-money-to-r-74
https://www.seattlemet.com/news-and-city-life/2012/10/monday-jolt-ramtha
https://www.vulture.com/2020/10/looking-back-at-mark-vicentes-what-the-usd-do-we-k-now.html
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/what-is-cult-hopping-nxivm-dos-838750/
https://www.nydailynews.com/2019/05/16/from-one-strange-cult-to-another-nxivm-whistleblower-had-served-in-another-sect-ids-doctor-as-member-who-branded-women/
https://frankreport.com/2022/01/26/vicente-to-publish-memoir-quest-how-the-bleep-did-that-happen/
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/pseudo-scientific-oddity-became-a-cult-favourite/
https://culteducation.com/group/1113-ramtha-school-of-enlightenment/17834-what-the-is-ramtha-.html

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.

This Is Not a Culinary Podcast – Shea Ruins Thanksgiving

Today, we are rewinding to our first Thanksgiving as a podcast!

In this Thanksgiving-themed episode from last year, Shea dives into the real history of the first Thanksgiving, dismantling the myths you thought were true and replacing them with the awkward, messy facts.

 Spoiler alert: it's not the wholesome story your childhood pageants would have you believe.

But that’s not all—we’re serving up a full buffet of chaos in this episode!

Shea, recording while hilariously hungover from a birthday party the night before, powers through to not only ruin Thanksgiving but also bring you some laugh-out-loud moments. Jody does her best to keep things on track but ends up adding to the fun with their own sharp commentary.🎧

 What to expect:

• The surprising (and sometimes uncomfortable) truths about the first Thanksgiving.
• Shea & Jody’s favorite Thanksgiving dinner disaster stories. From kitchen fires to oops, the turkey's still frozen, these stories will have you thankful for your own holiday chaos.
• A friendly debate over the best ways to cook a turkey. Are you Team Roast, Team Spatchcock, or Team Why-Are-We-Eating-Turkey-Anyway?
• Tips for how to use your newfound historical knowledge to become the ultimate insufferable know-it-all at your family dinner.

Whether you’re cooking, cleaning, or just hiding in a quiet corner, this episode will have you laughing, learning, and maybe questioning your dinner table traditions.Where to listen:

🌐 Rainy Day Rabbit Holes Website

🎵 Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, or wherever you get your podcasts.

💬 Join the conversation: Got a Thanksgiving disaster story of your own? Or want to settle the turkey-cooking debate? Let us know in the comments or on social media!





Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/pacific-northwest-history-humor-rainy-day-rabbit-holes--6271663/support.