Naturally Off Topic

Krampus: The Dark Side of Christmas

Get ready to dive into the chilling legend of Krampus, the horned, fearsome anti-Santa who stalks the streets every December 5th. In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we peel back the layers of folklore to uncover the ancient roots of Krampus in Alpine traditions, his connection to St. Nicholas, and his transformation into a modern-day cultural icon. From the eerie parades of Krampusnacht to his resurgence in pop culture, this is a tale of light and shadow, joy and consequence.
Explore the pagan origins of this mythical creature, his enduring role in balancing holiday cheer with a dose of fear, and the surprising ways Krampus has made his way into modern traditions. As we journey through the myths and stories, we’ll ask: what does Krampus reveal about our fascination with the darker side of the holidays?
Tune in for a festive yet haunting exploration of the legend that reminds us that even in the season of giving, consequences are never far away.
Show Notes/Sources:
Krampus - Britannica
Hel: Norse Goddess of Death - Study.com
The Story of Krampus - Fear Columbus
Krampusnacht Tradition - National Today
Krampus in Pop Culture - Seawitch Botanicals
Krampus Legend - Rare Dirndl Blog
Does Krampus Bring Balance? - Thinking Error-Free
Krampus’ Role in Psychology - The Room Psy
Krampus in Modern Media - Yahoo
Production Note:This episode is based on extensive research and storytelling to bring you an engaging and accurate exploration of Krampus. If you have questions or want to dive deeper, DM us on Instagram at @naturallyofftopic.

The Gray Man: Albert Fish’s Horrifying Crimes

Step into the chilling and grotesque world of Albert Fish—also known as the Gray Man, the Brooklyn Vampire, and the Boogeyman. Born in 1870, Fish’s life was a descent into unfathomable darkness, marked by abuse, psychological trauma, and unspeakable acts. From his tortured childhood at St. John’s Orphanage to his horrifying crimes involving the abduction, torture, and murder of children like Grace Budd and Billy Gaffney, Fish's depravity knew no bounds.
In this episode, we explore the horrifying details of his life, including his self-mutilation, twisted religious delusions, and the infamous letters that revealed the depth of his monstrous actions. Using sources such as Radford University’s Psychology Department research and insights from Morbid and Necronomipod, we unravel the psyche of one of America’s most notorious serial killers.
Join us for a harrowing journey into the mind of a man who blurred the lines between madness and pure evil. Warning: This episode contains graphic content that may be disturbing to some listeners.
Sources:
Radford University: Albert Fish - Spring 2008
Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Necronomipod
 
Production Note
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

The Elisabeth Fritzl Case: Darkness Beneath the Surface

This week on Naturally Off Topic, we explore one of the most harrowing and unimaginable true crime cases in history: the kidnapping and 24-year imprisonment of Elisabeth Fritzl by her father, Josef Fritzl.
In this episode, we delve into Josef Fritzl's background, his calculated construction of a hidden cellar, and the chilling events that led to Elisabeth's imprisonment. We also examine her life in captivity, her remarkable strength as a mother to seven children born under unthinkable circumstances, and the events that ultimately led to her rescue in 2008.
With care and sensitivity, we’ll discuss the psychological impact of long-term captivity and the legal aftermath, including Fritzl’s trial and life sentence. Finally, we reflect on Elisabeth's resilience and how she and her family have worked to rebuild their lives in the years since.
Join us as we navigate this dark and deeply impactful case while honoring Elisabeth's courage and endurance.
References for the Website:
Wikipedia: Fritzl Case
The Guardian: A House of Horror
CBS News: Fritzl Eligible for Parole
All That’s Interesting: The Elisabeth Fritzl Story
France 24: Fritzl’s Interview Through Lawyer
🎙️ New episodes drop Thursday at midnight.
#NaturallyOffTopic #TrueCrime #ElisabethFritzl #DarkHistory #SurvivorStory

Mini Episode: Road Trip Ramblings: Our Spooky Sightings & Unexpected Stops

For our very first mini-episode as Naturally Off Topic, we’re taking you along on our recent road trip! 🚗🌄 From eerie roadside attractions to surprising discoveries, we’re spilling all the fun, weird, and mysterious things we’ve encountered so far. Join us for a casual chat full of laughs, chills, and a few conspiracy theories along the way!
#NaturallyOffTopic #MiniEpisode #RoadTrip #SpookyAdventures #NewPodcast

The Supernatural Chronicles: Annabelle & The Conjuring Cases

In Part 2 of our Ed and Lorraine Warren series, we delve into their most spine-chilling cases, including the infamous Annabelle doll and the haunted Conjuring House.
Learn the terrifying details behind the doll that inspired multiple horror films and the Perron family’s experiences that formed the basis for The Conjuring. We’ll explore the Warrens’ investigations into these cases, their encounters with malevolent forces, and the real stories behind the Hollywood adaptations.
This episode also tackles the controversy and skepticism surrounding their work, raising the question: Were they uncovering the truth, or crafting compelling stories for a captivated audience?
References:
Tony Spera’s Annabelle Case Files
Atlas Obscura: Snedeker House
The Conjuring Universe
Normal + Paranormal: Smurl House Investigation
🎙️ New episodes drop every Thursday at midnight. Dive into the dark corners of history with us!
#NaturallyOffTopic #EdAndLorraineWarren #Annabelle #TheConjuring #HauntedHistory #ThursdayPodcast
 
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

The Supernatural Chronicles: Inside the World of Ed & Lorraine Warren

In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we explore the fascinating lives of Ed and Lorraine Warren, the pioneers of modern paranormal investigation. From their humble beginnings to their rise as the world’s most famous demonologists, we delve into the experiences that shaped their careers and their most notable cases.
Discover how Ed's early encounters with the supernatural and Lorraine's clairvoyant abilities led them to a life dedicated to investigating the unknown. We’ll discuss their first investigations, their marriage, and the unique methods they used to confront the unexplainable.
This episode sets the stage for understanding the Warrens' role in shaping the paranormal field and why their work remains both celebrated and controversial today.
References:
Devils Road: The True Story of Ed & Lorraine Warren
Biography.com: The Amityville Horror
Damned Connecticut: Lindley Street Case
Wikipedia: Ed and Lorraine Warren
🎙️ New episodes drop every Thursday at midnight. Don’t miss this deep dive into the lives behind the legends!
#NaturallyOffTopic #EdAndLorraineWarren #ParanormalHistory #Demonology #ThursdayPodcast
 
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

Bigfoot: Myth or Reality? Exploring the Sightings and Theories

In this episode of Naturally Off Topic, we take a deep dive into the world of Bigfoot—the elusive giant of legend. From its origins as a cryptid to modern sightings, we explore why this mysterious creature continues to captivate imaginations worldwide. 👣
But the story doesn’t stop there. We also examine the curious case of Andrew Dawson, whose viral videos of a supposed “giant” on a mountaintop stirred up controversy and conspiracy theories. Was it real, a hoax, or something more sinister? Dawson’s sudden death—shrouded in mystery—only added to the speculation. Using research, internet investigations, and community theories, we untangle the facts from the fiction.
Key questions we explore:
Is Bigfoot real or a product of clever hoaxes and folklore?
Was Andrew Dawson’s “giant” just a communications tower or something else?
Why did the circumstances surrounding Dawson’s death spark so many theories?
Join us as we discuss the evidence, the hoaxes, and why the Bigfoot legend endures. This episode is a wild ride through the world of cryptids and internet mysteries!
References:
Andrew Dawson Obituary - Campbell River Mirror
YouTube: The Giant Hoax Video Breakdown
Reddit: What Happened to Andrew Dawson?
New episodes drop Thursday at midnight—don’t miss this fascinating deep dive! 🎧
#NaturallyOffTopic #Bigfoot #CryptidLegends #InternetMysteries #AndrewDawson #HoaxOrReality
 
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

Amelia Earhart: The Aviator’s Journey (Part 2)

In Part 2 of our Amelia Earhart series, Naturally Off Topic dives headfirst into the enigma of her mysterious disappearance and the theories that have kept the world guessing for decades. 🛩️
Was Amelia secretly working as a spy for the U.S. government? Did she and her navigator, Fred Noonan, crash on an uninhabited island, struggling to survive? Or could the truth be even more extraordinary—some say out of this world?
We’ll explore everything from documented evidence to the wildest speculations, dissecting the events surrounding her final flight on July 2, 1937. This episode uncovers how her disappearance became fertile ground for conspiracy theorists, historians, and investigators alike.
From alleged government cover-ups to cryptic radio transmissions and controversial artifacts, we’re piecing together the puzzle of one of history’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Tune in for a riveting discussion that may leave you questioning what you think you know about Amelia Earhart.
References:
Amelia Earhart Official Website
US Naval Institute: Amelia Didn’t Know Radio
Flying Magazine: Amelia Earhart’s Final Flight
US Naval Institute: Earhart Tragedy – New Hypothesis
The Diplomat: Conspiracy Theory on Earhart and Japanese Soldiers
BBC: Amelia Earhart Mystery
ABC News: Theories on the Amelia Earhart Mystery
TIGHAR: Earhart Survived – Book Reviews
New episodes drop every Thursday at midnight. Don’t miss this thrilling conclusion to Amelia Earhart’s story! 🎧
#NaturallyOffTopic #AmeliaEarhart #ConspiracyTheories #AviationMystery #UnsolvedMystery
 
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

START HERE: Amelia Earhart: The Aviator’s Journey (Part 1)

Welcome to the debut episode of Naturally Off Topic! Under our new name, we’re kicking things off by exploring the life of Amelia Earhart, the fearless aviation pioneer who became a symbol of adventure and perseverance. ✈️
In this first installment, we delve into Amelia’s childhood, her early fascination with aviation, and the groundbreaking achievements that catapulted her to global fame. Discover the steps she took to break barriers for women in a male-dominated field and the historic flights that made her a legend.
We also discuss the events leading up to her infamous disappearance, setting the stage for Part 2, where we’ll dive into the theories and mysteries surrounding her fate. From her Kansas roots to her sky-high ambitions, this episode provides a compelling look at Amelia Earhart’s extraordinary life.
Sources:
Amelia Earhart: A Biography by Doris L. Rich
The Amelia Earhart Museum
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Earhart Project by TIGHAR
New episodes drop every Thursday at midnight. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of history’s most enduring mysteries! 🎧
#NaturallyOffTopic #AmeliaEarhart #AviationHistory #Mystery #WomenInSTEM
 
Naturally off topic has not done original reporting on this case. The stories are based on existing material (listed in show notes).
 
We work hard to make sure everything you’re listening to is as accurate as possible and we try to use multiple sources to verify the facts. Creative liberties may be taken in certain cases during the presentation of the case. Please DM us at @naturallyofftopic if you have any questions!

Mysteries of the Mariana Trench

In Season 2, Episode 12, we explore the eerie and unknown mysteries of the Mariana Trench 🌊 and share our plans for a secret rebrand—going completely incognito 🤫. It’s a mix of deep dives, both literally and figuratively. Get ready for some oceanic wonders and top-secret discussions! Episodes drop at midnight on Thursday. 🎧 #Podcast #MarianaTrench #Rebrand #Incognito #ThursdayMorningRelease