Southern Mysteries Podcast
Exploring history and mysteries of the American South. Hosted by Shannon Ballard.
Our Editor's Take
Shannon Ballard is the sole employee working on the Southern Mysteries Podcast. She is the creator, researcher, writer, audio engineer, host, and producer of the true crime show. The podcast is not her full-time job, either. Ballard hosts a Jackson, Mississippi morning radio show. But this doesn't mean that the podcast is a mere hobby for her. From the first minute of the show, it's easy to hear that the host is serious about what she does.
In each episode of the Southern Mysteries Podcast, Ballard explores a different tale. These are all based on legends, myths, or true crime stories passed down through the generations. As an Alabama native, Ballard grew up listening to these stories and was always intrigued by them. She always wondered about the facts behind them as well. As she grew older, Ballard started to travel around the Deep South of the US by herself. She wanted to learn more about its rich history from the people who live there. These travels provide extra material for her podcast.
Most of the crimes depicted in the Southern Mysteries Podcast will be new to listeners. Even those who live in the American South might discover new information. Some episodes will have sensitive topics, such as the Civil War and enslaved people. These topics are unavoidable due to the geographic location. Yet, the host always shows the utmost respect for the matter and sticks to the facts. She doesn't reveal her political beliefs. The host lets the listeners come to their own conclusions instead.
Another way the host distinguishes herself from other true crime podcasts is by not veering from her main topic. There is no banter in this show, no personal updates, or any asides. Each episode starts with a short description of the mystery and explores the details. There is nothing but the host's masterful narration and superb production value. New Southern Mysteries Podcast episodes come out every two weeks.
Episodes