The Box of Oddities

Kat & Jethro Gilligan Toth

The Webby Award-winning “Box of Oddities" is a podcast that delves into the strange and mysterious aspects of our world, exploring topics ranging from bizarre medical conditions to unsolved mysteries, and from paranormal phenomena to strange cultural practices from around the world. With a focus on oddities, curiosities, and the macabre, each episode is a journey into the unknown, where hosts Kat and Jethro Gilligan Toth share their love for unusual stories and inject their humor and commentary. From the strange history of medical practices to chilling true crime stories, to natural (and unnatural) events, "The Box of Oddities" satisfies your thirst for the weird and the unusual, offering an informative and entertaining look into the dark and mysterious corners of our world.

JIMMY KIMMEL, ABC-TV says, "Should you be the type who has an interest in weird stuff, this is a fun thing to allow in your head!"


“Truth is stranger than fiction, and the Box of Oddities is the strangest of all!” -SLUGGO, SIRIUS XM LITHIUM


“Kat & Jethro wring humor from bizarre, macabre and perplexing places.” -BOSTON MAGAZINE

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Our Editor's Take

Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction. The Box of Oddities brings listeners weird facts and trivia that seem too absurd to be true. Fans of the bizarre and unexpected may love the podcast. The award-winning show includes odd trivia, unusual historical facts, and true crime. With many millions of downloads, the podcast is a phenomenon, and it's not surprising. The hosts' chemistry, banter, and narration are outstanding.

Husband-and-wife duo Kat Walls and Jethro Gilligan Toth host The Box of Oddities podcast. Jethro started his broadcasting career under the pseudonym "Mike Elliott." He reverted to his birth moniker when they started the show in 2018. The couple met at the Maine radio station where they both worked. A piece of trivia about the hosts-Kat was once a cemetery groundskeeper, while Jethro once loaded frozen veggies.

The couple's discussions on The Box of Oddities sound natural and unforced. Kat and Jethro present a fascinating program that is hard to ignore. The hosts share tales and trivia they come across in their research. One host narrates, and the other "oohs," "ahs," and asks clarifying questions. The podcast is reminiscent of two friends exchanging strange facts they discovered. The discussions they have are easy to follow, entertaining, and irreverent. Also, listeners learn legitimate information that could be helpful in their everyday life.

From a weird discovery while exhuming a body to crossing Niagara Falls in a barrel, the show lives up to its name. The Box of Oddities is well-narrated and hilarious. It is no doubt a podcast for "weird stuff" enthusiasts. Each episode of the podcast brings listeners something weird, wild, or macabre.

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#576: Ancient Mesoamerican Influencer
1w ago
#576: Ancient Mesoamerican Influencer
Join hosts Kat and Jethro as they explore the bizarre and fascinating world of history and sports.First, we delve into the eerie and macabre world of Xipa Totec, the Aztec god of agriculture and fertility, and the shocking festival held in his honor. Prepare to be both horrified and intrigued as we discover the gruesome details of the Flayed Man Festival. Learn about the ancient rituals and beliefs that led to this chilling event, where human sacrifice played a central role in the Aztec civilization's religious practices. Kat and Jethro spare no detail in their exploration of this dark chapter in history, leaving you with a newfound understanding of the Aztec culture's complexities.Then, one of the most iconic moments in sports history was the Battle of the Sexes between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. Relive the excitement of the 1973 tennis showdown that captivated the world and challenged gender norms in sports. Join us as we recount the remarkable journey of Billie Jean King, a tennis legend and feminist icon, who took on the flamboyant and self-proclaimed "male chauvinist pig" Bobby Riggs. Learn about the high stakes, the media frenzy, and the powerful message this match sent to society about gender equality in sports.This episode uniquely blends the eerie and the inspiring, showcasing humanity's capacity for darkness and triumph. So, grab your headphones and prepare to be transported into the worlds of ancient rituals and groundbreaking sports history on Box of Oddities!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#574: Teabagging Killer Bees
Sep 11 2023
#574: Teabagging Killer Bees
First, we unearth the eerie allure of abandoned amusement parks—those haunting relics of joy, now overrun by nature and time. Why are we so captivated by these derelict wonderlands? From the remnants of roller coasters echoing past laughter to the phantom melodies of rusted carousels, there's an inexplicable magnetism to these places that evokes both nostalgia and fear. Then, we journey deep into the heart of the Amazon, where automotive magnate Henry Ford once tried to recreate a slice of Americana. Dubbed "Fordlandia," this ambitious project aimed to establish a rubber-producing town in the wilds of the rainforest. Yet, despite its grand vision, it crumbled amidst cultural clashes, environmental challenges, and the stubbornness of the jungle itself. Discover the unique challenges Ford faced and how this dream devolved into one of history's most intriguing misadventures.Join us for this double feature of deserted delights and industrial intrigue as we explore the corners of history that many have forgotten—but Box of Oddities never will! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Every click helps unearth more curiosities for your listening pleasure.The Contents of this Box include Abandoned amusement parks, nostalgia, fear, Henry Ford, Fordlandia, Amazon jungle, rubber industry, Americana, cultural clashes, environment, history, Box of Oddities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#573: Platypus' Aren't Real
Sep 7 2023
#573: Platypus' Aren't Real
Join us as we wander through the mysterious realms of the unknown in this episode of The Box of Oddities. First, we dive deep into the world of cryptozoology and the enigmatic creatures that once existed only in the realm of myths and legends. Get ready as we unveil the astonishing truth behind creatures that were once thought to be purely fantastical. Discover the fascinating blend of fact and folklore surrounding these creatures for centuries, and learn how modern science has uncovered the reality behind the myths.But the intrigue doesn't end there! In the second part of our episode, we turn our attention to the dark and haunted history of Houska Castle. Nestled deep within the heart of the Czech Republic, Houska Castle is not your typical medieval stronghold. It's a place where legends of demonic forces, eerie mysteries, and supernatural phenomena intertwine.Prepare to be chilled to the bone as we recount the spine-tingling stories of Houska Castle's enigmatic past. From its construction over a mysterious bottomless pit believed to be a gateway to hell to the unsettling reports of paranormal activity within its walls, this castle is steeped in tales of horror and the unexplained. We'll delve into the castle's unsettling history, exploring the eerie occurrences that have plagued it for centuries.So, grab your headphones and get ready for a double dose of intrigue and the unexplained on this episode of The Box of Oddities. Creatures that were once the stuff of legend are now revealed, and the haunted halls of Houska Castle await those brave enough to uncover their secrets. Don't miss this thrilling and mysterious journey into the unknown!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#571: Kissing Mothman's A**
Aug 31 2023
#571: Kissing Mothman's A**
Join Kat and Jethro for another journey into the unknown on this episode of *The Box of Oddities*. Prepare your pork taint to be intrigued and mystified as they delve into two enigmatic topics that will leave you questioning the boundaries of reality.**Segment 1: Encounters with the Grinning Man - Indrid Cold**Step into the shadows of the unexplained as Jethro unravels the chilling accounts of encounters with the enigmatic figure Indrid Cold. With his unsettling grin and unearthly demeanor, Cold has been sighted in numerous incidents throughout history, leaving witnesses bewildered and fearful. Discover the baffling stories that range from Mothman prophecies to tales of UFO sightings, all connected by this mysterious and elusive presence. Could Cold be an extraterrestrial visitor, an interdimensional being, or even more perplexing? Tune in as *The Box of Oddities* uncovers the spine-tingling details of these eerie encounters.**Segment 2: Whispering Waves of Secrets - Number Stations**Unlock the hidden world of espionage and cryptic communication as Kat investigates the haunting phenomenon of number stations. These enigmatic radio broadcasts, emitting seemingly random sequences of numbers and codes, have perplexed codebreakers and conspiracy theorists for decades. Journey into the heart of Cold War intrigue, the history, purpose, and theories surrounding these clandestine transmissions. Are they messages to spies? Covert instructions? Or perhaps glimpses into a parallel dimension? Discover the eerie allure of number stations and the lingering questions that baffle experts and enthusiasts.Get ready for a double dose of the uncanny, as *The Box of Oddities* takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the inexplicable world of Indrid Cold sightings and the cryptic realm of number stations. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that challenges your perceptions and invites you to explore the extraordinary mysteries surrounding us.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#568: Giggling Granny From Beyond The Grave
Aug 21 2023
#568: Giggling Granny From Beyond The Grave
Step into a world of mysteries and linguistic curiosities in this episode of *The Box of Oddities*. Join hosts Kat and Jethro as they delve deep into the enigmatic realms of history and language, uncovering two distinct and intriguing topics.In the first segment, Jethro explores the enigmatic prophecies of Edgar Cayce, a renowned American psychic often called the "Sleeping Prophet." Discover the riveting tale of Cayce's prediction of a hidden chamber containing ancient records lying beneath the paws of the Sphinx. With his alleged ability to access the Akashic Records, Cayce's vision has sparked fascination and speculation about the potential secrets waiting to be unveiled beneath this iconic monument.Then, Kat takes you on a linguistic journey through time as she unravels the peculiar origins of everyday phrases that have become second nature in our conversations. From "turning a blind eye" to "nick of time," these phrases carry captivating histories that reveal unexpected insights into our language's evolution.Join us for a thought-provoking blend of history, mystery, and language as *The Box of Oddities* navigates through the depths of ancient prophecies and the quirky tales behind our most common expressions. Tune in to expand your knowledge and feed your curiosity about our extraordinary world.*The Box of Oddities*: Curious Histories, Peculiar People, and Bizarre Facts – Where the unusual is celebrated, and the extraordinary is embraced.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#565: A Very Judgmental Corpse
Aug 10 2023
#565: A Very Judgmental Corpse
Join us for another journey into the world of the bizarre and mysterious.Step into the shadows of Chihuahua, Mexico, where a haunting and unsettling tale awaits. Unravel the chilling legend of La Pascualita, a bridal mannequin that has captured the imagination of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Is this elegant figure a mannequin, or does it harbor a darker secret? We delve into the eerie history, the whispered stories of a preserved bride, and the spine-tingling events that have earned La Pascualita her macabre reputation.Next, we enter the depths of Appalachian folklore and dive into the captivating world of the Gallywampus. From the rolling hills to the hidden hollows, this mythical creature has been the subject of countless tales told around campfires and hearths. But what is the Gallywampus, and why does it continue to bewitch the minds of those who hear its name? Join us as we explore the varied interpretations, the regional variations, and the enduring charm of this fantastical beast that has left an indelible mark on storytelling.Tune in to *The Box of Oddities* as we uncover the mysteries beneath these extraordinary stories' surface. Join hosts Kat and Jethro on a quest for the strange, the unusual, and the unexplained. Whether you're a seasoned explorer of the odd or a newcomer to the realm of curiosities, this episode promises to leave you both captivated and bewildered. Subscribe now and satisfy your craving for the perplexing! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#562: A Theater Full Of Hobos
Jul 31 2023
#562: A Theater Full Of Hobos
In this episode, we unearth the mysterious realm of 'Crisis Apparitions,' where the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur. Can the apparitions of loved ones in crisis truly bridge the earthly and the ethereal gap? From real-life anecdotes to intriguing scientific theories, we traverse the mysterious landscape of these spectral visions, often linked to an immediate family tragedy or emergency.The second half of our journey catapults you through the annals of cinematic history, time travel from the flickering beginnings in the late 19th century to today's immersive, cutting-edge movie experiences. Witness the evolution of cinema, the societal shifts it reflected, and how the simple joy of 'going to the movies' transformed over time. And one film, in particular, changed how we go to the movies forever.So, whether you're a paranormal enthusiast or a film history buff, or love the curiosity-courting chaos that Box of Oddities always brings – this episode will satiate your quest for the unexpected. Tune in for an enlightening blend of mystery, history, and the outright strange – the quintessential ingredients for an unforgettable Box of Oddities episode.Some of the ingredients found in this box are, Paranormal, Supernatural, Crisis Apparitions, History, Cinema, Movies, Film Evolution, Society, Technology, Culture, Entertainment, Mysterious, Intriguing and Unexpected.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
#560: It's Raining Cats And Toddlers
Jul 24 2023
#560: It's Raining Cats And Toddlers
In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we dive into the realms of uncanny coincidences and surprising historical connections. First, we unravel the mysteries of strange Synchronicities like "The Simpsons Predictions." Join us as we explore the bizarre world of seemingly prophetic events that have astonished the world. From uncanny occurrences in "The Simpsons" that foreshadowed real-life events to other eerie coincidences that defy explanation, we'll examine the fascinating instances where fiction appears to collide with reality. Buckle up as we explore the astonishing power of foresight and how these peculiar coincidences have captured the imagination of millions around the globe.Next, we journey through time to explore an unlikely connection: The Trail of Tears and the Great Irish Potato Famine." As history unfolds, we'll reveal a surprising thread that weaves together two seemingly unrelated events. Learn how the tragic forced removal of Native American tribes during the Trail of Tears intertwines with the devastating impact of the Irish Potato Famine in ways you could never have imagined. This unexpected connection sheds light on the complex tapestry of history and showcases the far-reaching consequences of human actions across continents and generations.Join us as we uncover these enigmatic stories and seek to understand the unexplainable. Whether you're a fan of the bizarre, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the world's hidden wonders, prepare to be amazed by the extraordinary, the unusual, and the inexplicable.Things you'll find inside this Box are strange synchronicities, Simpsons predictions, uncanny coincidences, mysterious events, reality-bending, prophetic visions, historical connections, Trail of Tears, Great Irish Potato Famine, unlikely ties, human history, bizarre wonders, unexplainable mysteries.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.