In this thought-provoking episode of That's Effin Weird, host Stevenson explores one of the most fascinating and controversial questions in psychology and criminology: can early childhood experiences influence whether someone becomes a criminal later in life? From brain development during infancy to the impact of neglect, abuse, trauma, and unstable home environments, we examine how the earliest years of life may leave lasting marks on behavior and decision-making.

Stevenson dives into real-world research surrounding childhood development, impulse control, empathy, emotional regulation, and the science behind how the young brain forms. The episode also explores warning signs that experts have identified and why some children who experience severe adversity go on to lead productive lives while others take a darker path. Is criminal behavior the result of biology, environment, personal choice, or a combination of all three? Join us for a fascinating discussion that looks at the intersection of psychology, crime, and human development in a way only That's Effin Weird can.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: Ashley

Social: "Reality Behind Bars" and is available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon and pretty much anywhere you can find podcasts.

Website: realitybeindbars.com

Email: [email protected]

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What drives ordinary people to surrender their lives, beliefs, and identities to a charismatic leader? In this chilling episode of That's Effin Weird, host Stevenson Longbottom explores the dark and fascinating world of cults. From the manipulative influence of Charles Manson and the infamous Manson Family murders to the tragic siege involving the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas, we examine how these groups gained power and why people followed them.

We'll also discuss lesser-known cult leaders and controversial figures such as Jeffrey Warren, along with the psychological tactics used to recruit and control followers. Through stories of devotion, manipulation, isolation, and tragedy, we'll uncover the warning signs that turn movements into cults and leaders into dangerous icons.

Join us as we venture into one of the strangest and most disturbing corners of human behavior. Because sometimes the scariest monsters aren't cryptids or ghosts—they're the people who convince others to follow them without question. And that's effin weird.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

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This week on That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson takes listeners deep into the jungles of Vietnam to explore a fascinating mix of wartime history, cryptid encounters, and unsolved mysteries. From the legendary Rock Apes—strange ape-like creatures reportedly encountered by American soldiers during the Vietnam War—to eerie stories that emerged from the dense and unforgiving wilderness, this episode examines the line between battlefield reality and folklore.

Stevenson also dives into the infamous Vietnam murder mystery tapes, mysterious recordings and stories that continue to spark debate among researchers and history enthusiasts. Along the way, the episode explores the realities of the Vietnam War, the psychological effects of combat, and how fear, isolation, and the unknown can create legends that endure for decades. Were the Rock Apes simply misidentified animals, a previously unknown species, or something far stranger? Join us for a journey through one of history's most controversial conflicts and the bizarre mysteries that still linger in its shadows on That’s Effin Weird.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: Haunted

Guest: none

That's Effin Weird Social Media:

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In this dark and unsettling episode of That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson explores shocking cases of violence connected to the United States military, focusing on two of the most disturbing incidents in modern military history. The episode examines the crimes of Ronald Gray, a former Army specialist convicted of brutal murders in the late 1980s, and Nidal Hasan, the Army psychiatrist responsible for the deadly 2009 Fort Hood shooting that sent shockwaves through the nation and military community alike.

Stevenson dives into the backgrounds, warning signs, investigations, and lasting impact these cases had on military culture, mental health discussions, and security procedures within the armed forces. The episode also looks at how these tragedies exposed deeper issues involving trauma, institutional oversight, and the psychological pressures tied to military life. Blending true crime with military history, this episode of That’s Effin Weird examines the chilling reality that sometimes the danger comes from within.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

That's Effin Weird Social Media:

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In this heartfelt and unbelievable episode of That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson dives into the incredible true stories of the heroic animals that served during World War I and World War II. From fearless war dogs carrying messages through gunfire to cats that boosted morale aboard naval ships, these animals became unlikely heroes in some of history’s darkest moments. The episode also explores the roles of horses charging through battlefields and even monkeys that assisted soldiers in strange and surprising ways.

Stevenson uncovers the emotional bonds formed between soldiers and animals during wartime, along with the bravery, loyalty, and strange stories that often get overlooked in history books. Some of these animals saved lives, warned troops of danger, or simply gave comfort during chaos and uncertainty. It’s a mix of military history, emotional storytelling, and bizarre wartime facts that perfectly fits the world of That’s Effin Weird.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

That's Effin Weird Social Media:

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The Animal Hero List:

13 Heroic Military Animals Who Served Their Countries Bravely

In this intense and mysterious episode of That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson dives deep into some of history’s strangest military stories and unexplained wartime legends. From the eerie disappearance of Flight 19 over the Atlantic in 1945 to the bizarre and advanced Nazi Wunderwaffe “miracle weapons” developed during World War II, this episode explores the thin line between documented history and unsettling mystery. Stevenson also uncovers the incredible true story of the Ghost Army, the secret U.S. military deception unit that used inflatable tanks, fake radio signals, and Hollywood-style illusions to fool enemy forces across Europe.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

That's Effin Weird Social Media:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ4LwMP_6yF3V42LY-8xyHQ/videos

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Links:

8 Bizarre, Unsolved Military Mysteries That Still Give Historians Goosebumps | VeteranLife | Milspouses

Nuclear Blast Simulator — Interactive Nuke Map & Blast Radius Calculator

In this chilling episode of That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson dives into one of the most controversial modern cryptid legends—the Kandahar Giant. Said to have emerged from the rugged mountains near Kandahar during the early years of the War in Afghanistan, this towering, red-haired humanoid has become the center of a story that blurs the line between military secrecy and myth.

According to the tale, a U.S. Special Forces unit investigating a missing patrol encountered a massive, human-like creature lurking near a cave system. What followed was a violent and deadly confrontation—one that allegedly ended with the creature being taken down and quietly removed, never to be officially acknowledged again. No reports, no records… just whispers.

Stevenson breaks down the timeline, the supposed eyewitness details, and how the story exploded years later through shows like Coast to Coast AM. Was this a hidden chapter of modern warfare, a surviving relic of ancient giants, or simply a well-crafted legend that took on a life of its own?

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

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Link to Coast to Coast Broadcast Episodes: I could not find the exact episode, but you can take a look for yourself!

https://avalonlibrary.net/?search=giant 

In this offbeat episode of That’s Effin Weird, host Stevenson dives into the strangest and most unexpected sports ever connected to the Olympics. From events that seem almost made up to competitions that only lasted a single appearance, this episode explores the weird side of one of the world’s biggest sporting stages. Stevenson breaks down how some of these unusual events made it into the Olympics, what the rules were, and why they didn’t stick around.

Top 15 Most Unusual Olympic Sports in History | Light Wave

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

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In this fast-paced episode, host Stevenson rolls into the high-impact world of roller derby—a sport that’s equal parts strategy, speed, and controlled chaos. From its gritty beginnings in the 1930s to its explosive rise on television and eventual fall from mainstream popularity, Stevenson breaks down how roller derby evolved into the modern, athlete-driven sport it is today. He explores the rules, the scoring system, and what really happens when skaters collide at full speed on the track.

This episode also dives into a 1970's Roller Derby match between the Chiefs and Bombers. It's an in your face exciting time with live audio that you can listen to while watching the episode. The link to the video is found below!

YouTube Roller Derby 1970's: (1973) Roller Derby Chiefs vs Bombers 1st Half

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: none

Guest: none

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In this action-packed episode, host Stevenson is joined by guest Reed dive into the intense and often misunderstood world of jousting. From its origins as a medieval combat training exercise to its modern-day revival as a competitive sport, they break down the history, the rules, and what it actually feels like to charge full speed at another rider with a lance in hand. Reed shares insights into the skill, discipline, and risk involved, shedding light on a sport that’s far more real—and dangerous—than most people realize.

The conversation also explores how jousting has evolved over time, the difference between theatrical performances and competitive leagues, and why this centuries-old tradition still captures people’s imagination today. With a mix of history, adrenaline, and behind-the-scenes perspective, Stevenson and Reed bring jousting to life in a way that’s both informative and seriously intense.

Host: Stevenson Longbotom

Cohost: None

Guest: Reed

That's Effin Weird Social Media:

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