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All Seasons

Season 1

  • S01E01 DuPont Chemical Scandal

    • June 3, 2021

    On the premiere episode of Dark History, Bailey dives deep into a topic that still is affecting us today! It is about an experiment and an injustice. The DuPont Chemical scandal is an exploration into synthetic chemicals possibly poisoning us all, a cover-up, and an unlikely lawsuit that exposes everything!

  • S01E02 Zoot Suit Riots

    • June 9, 2021

    On this week’s episode, Bailey explores the story behind the Zoot Suit Riots of 1943 in Los Angeles alongside an Historical Expert, Professor Pagan. Together, they discuss race relations in the US during this period, Zoot Suit inspiration from Jazz culture and the implications that the riots have even today!

  • S01E03 Rosewood Massacre

    • July 14, 2021

    Murder, Destruction and Racism are all discussed as Bailey digs into the unsettling story of The Rosewood Massacre, which was an attack on the predominantly black town of Rosewood, Florida, in 1923 by large white mobs destroying the entire location.

  • S01E04 Andrew Jackson

    • July 21, 2021

    Today, Bailey dives deep into the story about Andrew Jackson, the master duelist, the man on the $20 bill, and the man responsible for the death of thousands of Native Americans.

  • S01E05 Let's Talk About The Dark History Of Birth Control. Buckle In.

    • July 28, 2021

    Birth Control is in medicine cabinets all over the world, used by millions of women. But few know its scandalous history involves mass sterilizations of Puerto Rican women, an American business tycoon, and an activist who dabbled in eugenics. What’s eugenics? You’ll find out. And it ain’t pretty. Today, Bailey reveals the big history behind the little pill that changed family planning forever.

  • S01E06 Mind Games - The Dark History of Lobotomy

    • August 5, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about an insane chapter in medical history where a doctor sold a procedure, the lobotomy, as if it were an infomercial. For a low, low price, this idiot promised to solve all your mental illnesses. He just has to stick this ice pick in your brain.

  • S01E07 Crack vs. Cocaine: Welcome to Incarceration Nation

    • August 12, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about how the media’s reporting on a basketball superstar’s overdose kicked President Regan’s War on Drugs into overdrive and led to incredibly harsh punishments for crack users vs. cocaine. Even though crack and cocaine are the same damn drug.

  • S01E08 The Trail of Tears: Not one, but many

    • August 19, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the Trail of Tears. Now, this is a heavy one, but it’s a necessary one. Over two decades, the U.S. Government stole Native land and relocated about 88,000 people. About 17,000 died along the way. But this is also a story of pride and resistance, with many of these tribes surviving to tell the story today.

  • S01E09 When the American Dream Goes Up in Flames: Triangle Shirtwaist Fire

    • August 26, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, where 146 garment workers lost their lives. This tragic story lives at the intersection of greedy capitalism, immigrant exploitation and social justice. Workers fighting for basic rights found themselves fighting for their lives.

  • S01E10 Who stole grandma’s body?! The Doctors’ Riots of 1788

    • September 2, 2021

    Modern medicine had to start somewhere, right? And where it started ain’t too pretty. In order to study the inside of the body, bodies had to be dissected. And where did medical students and doctors get bodies to dissect in 1788? They stole ‘em from the cemetery, silly. Today, Bailey tells the wild story of the 1788 Doctors’ Riots.

  • S01E11 Thomas Edison maybe killed a guy and other enlightening Edison tales

    • September 16, 2021

    When people think of American innovation, one name always comes up: Thomas Edison. But, just like everything else in our series, there’s a dark side to Tommy boy. Today, Bailey reveals a story that shines Edison in a different light, a more unflattering one filled with buried tales of greed, fame, dishonesty and, dare she say, murder.

  • S01E12 MKUltra: Mind Control, Drugs and Robocats

    • September 23, 2021

    Today, we’re going to talk about mind control, college students on acid, kitty cat spies, the CIA, and something called Operation Midnight Climax, which, sadly, is not a porno. All of this was a part of Project MKUltra and you’re going to hear why the CIA wanted it kept secret. Hop in, the water is… super weird.

  • S01E13 Edith Wilson: The USA’s First Female President

    • September 30, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about how Edith Wilson quietly became the first female President of the U.S.A. after her husband, Woodrow, had a stroke. With no formal training in politics, Edith caused chaos behind closed doors while the American public had no clue what was going on.

  • S01E14 Gay Conversion Therapy: Pseudo Science is Destroying Innocent Lives

    • October 7, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about Gay Conversion Therapy, an abusive practice where bad science and extreme religious views created hell on Earth for hundreds of thousands of people in the LGBTQ+ communities. And it continues to this day.

  • S01E15 Who gave the Philly Police a friggin’ BOMB?!: The 1985 MOVE Bombing

    • October 14, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about how Cobbs Creek, Philadelphia became a warzone in 1985 when police decided to evict the MOVE organization by dropping a bomb on their home, destroying the entire neighborhood in the process.

  • S01E16 From Riots and Raids to Gay Pride Parades: How Pride Came to Be

    • October 21, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about how a 1969 police raid on the Stonewall Inn sparked violent riots that would become the global revolution for LGBTQ+ liberation.

  • S01E17 People Danced Until They LITERALLY Died?! - The Dancing Plague of 1518

    • October 28, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the Dancing Plague of 1518: a story where life in a charming French town was so horrible that the peasants broke into a dance… and couldn’t stop until they died.

  • S01E18 Secret Medical Testing on People & the Government Knew?! The Tuskegee Experiment

    • November 4, 2021

    In 1972, an article went viral before the internet existed. The headline read: “Syphilis Victims in U.S. Study Went Untreated for 40 Years.” This bombshell report exposed the Tuskegee Experiment for what it was: a crime against humanity. Today, Bailey tells the story of the study’s 400 participants and the monsters who lied and took advantage of them even though a cure to their illness was readily available.

  • S01E19 Concentration Camps... IN AMERICA?!: Japanese Incarceration

    • November 11, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about one of the ugliest chapters in American history: Japanese-American Incarceration. From 1942 to 1946, the American Government forced over 100,000 Japanese Americans into concentration camps because they thought MAYBE they were spies.

  • S01E20 Secrets Buried in Unmarked Graves: Residential Schools

    • November 18, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about how the Indigenous children of North America were forced into Residential Schools all with the intention to destroy the very culture their families were trying to preserve.

  • S01E21 A Church vs. The Feds: Who Shot First?? The WACO Siege

    • November 25, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the Waco Massacre, a standoff between the U.S. Government, a religious group and their cult-like leader, David Koresh. Buckle up, there’s no story quite like this one.

  • S01E22 Why 20,000 People Wanted Italian Immigrants Dead: Sicilian Lynchings

    • December 2, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about a bloody day back in 1891 where 11 Italian people were lynched in New Orleans, how it almost started a war and created a Federal holiday we observe every year.

  • S01E23 Before COVID, there was Bubonic Plague in San Fran

    • December 9, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about when the Black Plague arrived in San Francisco in 1899 and how panicked citizens, health officials and politicians had an eerily similar reaction to what we experienced in 2020.

  • S01E24 How Jazz Almost Wasn’t a Thing: The Dark History of Jazz

    • December 16, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the incredible story of Jazz, how America fell in love with it, how the Federal Government wanted to destroy it and how the genre’s most famous name, Billie Holiday, became public enemy #1.

  • S01E25 Twisted Holiday Tales You’ve Never Heard: Dark History Holiday Edition

    • December 23, 2021

    Today, we are going to talk about the invention of caroling, a Christmas ghost story, a wartime truce and an unforgettable Hanukkah miracle. Four holiday stories packed into one shocking episode and delivered by Sarian Claus herself!

  • S01E26 Bonus Episode: Death By Delicious Chocolate - Cordelia Botkin was WILD

    • December 30, 2021

    There's no Dark History episode this week, but here's a bonus episode of a story I did for Murder, Mystery & Makeup (which is now a podcast!!) about Cordelia Botkin.

  • S01E27 These Women Were Poisoned by their Job for Years: The Radium Girls

    • January 6, 2022

    Today, we are going to talk about some badass women who, even though they were dying from radiation poisoning, took their bosses to court over horrible working conditions. This is the story of the Radium Girls.

  • S01E27 The Dark Side to the Golden Age of Hollywood

    • January 13, 2022

    Hollywood is known for serving us drama in front of the camera. But, today we turned the camera around and took a look behind the scenes during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Scandals, abuse, death, cover ups. You name it, the Golden Age of Hollywood had it.

  • S01E28 The Many Crimes of The Nestle Company

    • January 20, 2022

    Today we head back to the world of slimy corporations. What started out as a company just looking to feed babies morphed into a cooperation with such a shady past even Dupont would blush. Yep, today we’re taking a closer look at Nestle and just a few of the awful things they’ve done as they’ve grown into a global corporation. And let me tell you, it is not pretty.

  • S01E29 The Birth of Click Bait & Fake News: Yellow Journalism

    • January 27, 2022

    The News. However you feel about it, it’s something we all know and all kind of need. And we have seen how badly it can go when the people in charge of the news take advantage of that. But when did that all start. Well today we’re going to talk about just that. How two men flipped the news industry on its head, sensationalized the news, and changed how the news would be done.

  • S01E30 The Woman who REALLY Started Rock & Roll: Sister Rosetta Tharpe

    • February 3, 2022

    Do you know who Sister Rosetta Tharpe is? Would you believe me if I told you she’s responsible for Elvis Presley, Chuck Barry, Little Richard, The Beatles, The Who, The Rolling Stones, Jimmi Hendrix and basically Rock and Roll itself? Well today we’re gonna go into Rosetta’s story and learn about how she is the unknown mother of rock and roll.

  • S01E31 How the US STOLE Hawaii

    • February 10, 2022

    Hawaii, the tropical paradise and the 50th state of the United States, or is it? Today we dive into the totally known but never discussed, illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. And how even today, it is known to be an illegal overthrow but nothing is being done.

  • S01E32 Equal Rights and Access FOR ALL: The Americans with Disabilities Act

    • February 17, 2022

    Some things are hard to talk about, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn't talk about it. Which is why we are going to talk about the horrible, dark, treatment that people with disabilities have received for years. And we will also discuss their fight that led to the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Plus the fight we still have to fight today.

  • S01E33 The TRUTH behind Central Park, Lake Lanier and Dodger Stadium

    • February 24, 2022

    Today we continue on the path of how we can’t have nice things. Because our history is dark and shady. And that includes the history of Central Park, Lake Lanier, and Dodger Stadium. Or how they were known to the communities that called them home: Seneca Village, Oscarville, Palo Verde, La Loma, or Bishop.

  • S01E34 Private Prisons: Where Prisoners Become Profit

    • March 3, 2022

    Today, we are going to talk about what happens when capitalism intersects with the prison system. Here’s a hint: a whole lotta people get hurt and a small amount of people get super rich. Welcome to the Private Prison industry. It’s disgusting...

  • S01E35 Pre-Tampon vs Post Tampon World: The Dark History of Menstruation

    • March 10, 2022

    Periods. Let’s talk about them. Let’s talk about why we don’t talk about them. And let’s talk about how they’ve been talked about throughout history. Today we start to scratch the surface and the long and global history of menstruation and everything that comes with it.

  • S01E36 The Shocking & Shady Past of Bananas

    • March 17, 2022

    There’s always money in the Banana stand, but that money has a dark, dirty history. And today we’re getting into just that. Today we’re going to talk about the WILD history of bananas.

  • S01E37 The Government Poisoning Alcohol?!: Prohibition

    • March 24, 2022

    Today dark history gets a little….drunk. That’s right babes, we’re talking about Prohibition. We know prohibition for the speakeasies, the flappers, and the bootleggers. But there's so much more to uncover. And ooooo, it is wild.

  • S01E38 The Darkest Show on Earth: The Circus

    • March 31, 2022

    The circus. What a fun place for everyone. Unless you’re one of the employees they threw off a moving train. Or are an animal at one. Or were what they considered a “freak” Or even just decided to go be in the audience the day it all got set ablaze. Oh yeah. Today we’re talking about the dark history of the circus. And believe me when I tell you, there is a whole bunch of shady stuff going on under the big top.

  • S01E39 Is College Even Worth it?: The Dark History of Student Loans

    • April 7, 2022

    Sallie Mae, just saying the name sends shivers down your spine. Why is that? Probably because she’s related to nearly $1.75 TRILLION worth of debt. All for the same thing: Student Loans. Today we get into the history of student loans. How did they start? How did they evolve to what we know today? And what did SallieMae do to make us all hate her?

  • S01E40 Puff, Puff, Pass: Dark History of Cannabis

    • April 14, 2022

    What accounts for more arrests than ALL violent crimes combined? Need a hint? Well it is also a multi-billion dollar, totally legal industry? And not that this narrows it down, but it has a past that’s riddled with racism, greed, and shady dealings. Today we are talking all about the Dark History of Cannabis. And ooo let me tell you it is a STORY. So grab your munchie snacks and settle in.

  • S01E41 Diving Into The Dark Web: Dark History of Silk Road

    • April 28, 2022

    The Silk Road. No, not the one with Marco Polo. But the one with drugs, Dread Pirate Roberts, and murder for hire. Today we go into the history of the internet’s Silk Road, which some refer to as “Amazon but for Drugs.” And they’re not wrong, but oh boy, there is so, SO much more to it.

  • S01E42 Heroin & Cigarettes & Tapeworms: The Dark History of Diet Culture

    • May 5, 2022

    Buckle in, babe, because we’re going to talk about the devastating world of DIET CULTURE. When I started researching this episode, all I wanted to know is who came up with the idea of a diet. But then I discovered that somewhere along the way, dieting became less about health and more about -surprise surprise- money and treating women horribly. So today, we’re headed everywhere from ancient Greece to Jane Fonda’s workout studio to figure out the Dark History of Diet Culture.

  • S01E43 Dark History: Cleopatra, Catherine, Jackie, And Yoko: Their True Stories

    • May 12, 2022

    Cleopatra, Catherine the Great, Jackie Mitchell, and Yoko Ono. Maybe you’ve heard of these four amazing women, maybe you haven’t. But if you’ve heard of them, have you heard the truth? Or just what history wants you to know? Today we are going to dive deep into the stories of each of these women to expose the truth and tell their stories they way they were meant to be told.

  • S01E44 Signs, Seances, and the Stars: Dark History of Psychics and Astrology

    • May 19, 2022

    Has anyone ever blamed being late on being a leo? Or talked about how mercury being in retrograde has really just screwed everything up? Have you ever wondered what any of that meant or how we got here? Well today we’re diving way back into the history of astrology and psychics and figuring out how we got from reading the stars to reading our horoscopes.

  • S01E45 Making the Band: Dark History of Boybands

    • May 26, 2022

    Who remembers the epic battle of our childhood known as NSYNC vs Backstreet Boys? Cause boy do I remember it. But what I did not realize was that it was all fake. It was orchestrated by one man who was raking in the cash from both bands. Today we get into that and much MUCH more about the dark history of boy bands, from when they started to where they are now. And let me tell you, it is QUITE a tale.

  • S01E46 Silence=Death: The Dark History of the AIDs Epidemic

    • June 2, 2022

    The AIDs epidemic. Yeah we’ve all pretty much heard of it. We've heard the horror stories, seen the ads, seen the fundraisers, and even know of lots of people who have it. But how much do we truly know about it? Today we are going to dive deep and really talk about the very heavy and very dark history of the AIDs epidemic.

  • S01E47 The Best of Dark History: The Joanie Awards

    • June 9, 2022

    I honestly had no idea what to expect when we started this Dark History journey a year ago, and it turned out to be so much more than I expected. We got to share some really crazy stories. Some good, some awful, some that sound like a soap opera, and some that I still can’t believe are true. Today we’re going to do something a little different and honor the best and the worst of season one. With Dark History presents: The Joanie Awards.

Season 2

  • S02E23 Blood, Butter, and Beheadings? Popcorns shady history you didn't know

    • August 4, 2022

    People used to be sacrificed for popcorn. Yep. The buttery goodness that you finish eating before the trailers are even over at the movies. Now you may be thinking, “how in the heck does that make any sense?” Because, honestly, that was also my initial reaction. But let me tell you, the history of popcorn is WILD. And we’re getting into all of it on today’s episode. So buckle in, babe.

  • S02E24 Sex Toys: Sinful or Medicinal?!?!

    • August 11, 2022

    Sex has been a part of humanity since the dawn of time. Do you know what else has been around for a while? Sex Toys. Oh yeah. There’s proof of dildos as far back as 30,000 BCE. But how did it go from phallic rocks to the multi-million dollar sex toy industry we have today. On today’s episode we go into the surprising and complicated history of the dildo. We’ll figure out what’s true, what’s a lie, and how the dildo is still around even after many attempts to ruin it.

  • S02E25 Gossip, Glitter & Whimsical Disgrace - WTF is up with Lisa Frank?

    • August 18, 2022

    I’ve mentioned her many times before. I’ve tempted you over and over with her juicy story. I promised to you again and again that we’d get into the shady backstory. And the time has finally come. It’s time for us to talk about Miss Lisa Frank. Oh yeah. On today’s episode we get into the story about what was happening behind the glitter and rainbows at Lisa Frank Inc. We’re talking phone bugging, drugs, fraud, verbal abuse, chaining employees inside the building?!?!?! Yeah, this story is not at all what you expect. So hold onto that rainbow tiger trapper keeper tight, babe, this is gonna be a wild ride.

  • S02E26 She’s in OUR DNA?! Who is Henrietta Lacks?

    • August 25, 2022

    One of my favorite things about this podcast is learning about all kinds of people I had no idea even existed. And today’s story is exactly one of those. In this week’s episode we are going to discuss the story of Henrietta Lacks. Who’s that you ask? Well she is the woman who changed the face of medicine and has saved millions of lives. She’s also the woman whose DNA is inside you right now. But if she’s done all that, why doesn’t anyone know who she is. Well my dear, that’s because her identity was kept a secret for decades while others gathered acclaim and riches off of her cells. DRAMA.

  • S02E27 STOP Beating Your Meat with this Tasty Treat! THE DARK HISTORY OF GRAHAM CRACKERS

    • September 1, 2022

    Some things are just meant to be together. Peanut butter and jelly. Milk and cookies. Graham crackers and masturbation? Yep, you read that right. Because without masturbation we never would have graham crackers. In today’s episode, we’ll talk all about how one man’s mission to stop people from whacking it, led to the creation of the tasty, cinnamon-y treat. Don't be a whacker, grab a cracker.

  • S02E28 From Mailing Babies to Mailing Bombs: The Postal Service Did What???

    • September 8, 2022

    What’s the craziest thing you’ve mailed? I feel like I remember a time in grade school where everyone was mailing potatoes. Anyone else? No? Just Me? Cool. Anyways, what I’m saying is throughout history, people have sent some crazy things in the mail. And sometimes, the things they sent were…dangerous. On today’s episode we’re talking all about the history of the Post Office. All the twists and turns. And how people got away with mailing….babies.

  • S02E29 Shave Your Head and Get in the Closet: Dark History of Marriage

    • September 15, 2022

    We’re going to the chapel and we’re going to get married! But it’s not all pretty dresses and delicious cake (mmmmmm cake). In fact, a lot of the wedding traditions that we hold near and dear have a pretty dark past. In today’s episode we’ll find out why we kiss the bride, why the father gives the bride away, why bridesmaids exist and what’s with their matching dresses, and why the garter toss is even a thing.

  • S02E30 Soft Drinks & Hard Drugs: Coca Cola's Story is Soda-Pressing

    • September 22, 2022

    Did you know that fewer people know the recipe for Coca-Cola than know the nuclear code? Or that the few people who do know the recipe are not allowed to fly at the same time in case their flights go down. So how did Coca-Cola become such precious cargo? Well in today’s episode we get into Coke’s history, when did the cocaine get taken out and why, how it grew into the empire we know today, and what shady secrets they keep in their vault with the recipe.

  • S02E31 Ghost Ships, Sunken Cities, And A Triangle Of Doom - 3 Mysteries From The Deep Blue Sea

    • September 29, 2022

    The Bermuda Triangle, the most mysterious shape on the entire planet. Seriously, why has no one been able to figure out what’s going on there?? It’s no mystery that every year multiple ships and planes are lost to the triangle, and it’s been that way for centuries. So how come no one is able to figure out what the heck is going on?? In today’s episode, we look into the mystery behind the Bermuda Triangle and talk about some potential theories about it. But Bermie isn’t the only mysterious water disappearance we’re talking about, Oh Nay Nay. We’ll also dive into ghosts ships and lost sunken cities.

  • S02E32 The Witches are Coming - Hide Your Broom, Hide Your Goats

    • October 6, 2022

    It’s spooky season babbyyy. Ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and witches. Oooo witches. It’s hard to have a spooky season without witches. But many people hundreds of years ago tried real hard to get rid of all the witches. In today’s episode we’re going to talk about Witch Hunts, but not the ones in Salem. The Witch Hunts we are talking about make those ones look like childsplay. We’re going back to the original hunts that spread across the world.

  • S02E33 Clowns That Kill: The Dark History Of Clowns

    • October 13, 2022

    Clowns, you either like them or you hate them. There really isn’t much of an in-between. But how could something as simple as a clown manage to get such strong opinions from people? In today’s episode we explore the long, dark, drunk, and complicated history of the clown. And I knew this story would be dark, but ooo boy, this was even darker than I expected.

  • S02E34 Cannibalism as Medicine?? The Wild trend of Mummy Powder

    • October 20, 2022

    Welcome to the Dark History podcast. Mummies, we know em, we’ve love em. And they are quite exclusive. Really rare. I mean everybody loses their minds whenever we find a new one. But would you believe at one time, there was a whole bunch of these bony bois lying around? Oh yeah, and what’s the reason why there are so few now? In today’s episode, we get into just that. And the reason…not exactly what you may think. Let’s just say…it involves cannibalism.

  • S02E35 Dungeons, Dragons, And Satan Worship

    • October 27, 2022

    What scares parents more than anything else? It’s the Devil, of course. And it wasn’t too long ago where this fear turned into a nationwide craze. In today’s episode we’ll talk about how Satan invaded our board games, music, even our classrooms! And if you think that everyone just sat down, calmly talked it over like adults, and everything was fine…oh buddy you’d be wrong. It was a total dumpster fire, from hell!

  • S02E36 Who Were the Bozos Before Bezos? When Money Ruins Everything

    • November 3, 2022

    Freakin rich people, amiright? I’m not talking about that kid you went to school with that had the parties at his parent’s mansion and gave out the best gift bags. We’re talking bajillionares, like the insanely rich. In today’s episode we’ll dive into the people who paved the way for the Bezos and the Musks of the world. And we’ll also see how and how the Original Richie Richs spent dolla bills. Spoiler: it was on themselves. Obvi!

  • S02E37 Cancer for Sale: When is it Enough?

    • November 10, 2022

  • S02E38 YOU'VE been Catfished. Who the Hell is Betty Crocker?

    • November 17, 2022

  • S02E39 F***, C***, B****, S***, Where Does Cursing Come From?

    • December 1, 2022

  • S02E40 How Did We Go from Selling Soap to Selling our Souls?

    • December 8, 2022

    Have you always felt like someone is watching you? Well hate to break it to you sweetie, but they are. And when I say “they” I mean advertisers. In today’s episode we learn how the world of advertising went from war propaganda to listening to you through your phone. Talk about a drastic shift.

  • S02E41 Death By Christmas Candle: What’s Really in Your Favorite Products?

    • December 15, 2022

    Tis the season. And by season I mean scented candle season. Nothing makes you feel more warm and cuddly than an apple cinnamon candle and a blanket. But what if I told you by burning that candle you’re doing the same amount of damage as just inhaling straight exhaust fumes. Seriously. In today’s episode we go into the dark seedy history of fragrance. And how because of them, something as simple as a scented candle is deadly.

  • S02E42 A Very Krampus Christmas: The Dark Spirits of Christmas Past

    • December 22, 2022

    Is there anything as cozy as a Christmas tree? When you look at it, what do you think of? Family, holidays, presents, hot coco, singing carols, good times etc etc. But have you ever looked at a Christmas tree and thought about chopped off d**k? Because it turns out you should. In today’s episode, we get into the dark history of four of our favorite holiday traditions: Christmas Trees, Gingerbread, Christmas Cards, and Krampus. And trust me when I tell you, some of this info really jingled my bells.

  • S02E43 Horror, Heartbreak & Homicide- Happy New Year!!

    • January 5, 2023

    New Years. Honestly, not my favorite of the holidays. It’s cold. Sequin Dresses are super uncomfortable. Everyone’s Drunk. And a midnight kiss is overrated. So I wanted to prove that New Year's sucks because it has a dark and dirty past. And I was right. But once I read the story, I wasn’t very happy to be right. Because let me tell you, this one is messed up. In today’s story, we get into the very dark story of Heartbreak/Hiring Day.

  • S02E43 Princess of the Press vs. The Media and The Man

    • January 12, 2023

    Have you ever been made to seem like the bad guy? Have you ever had everyone turn against you when you were just trying to do something good? Well, what about, have you ever had people hate you so much for trying to do the right thing that they blow up your office and you have to flee your home? No? Well, all of this and more happened to one Ida B. Wells. In today’s episode, we go over the life and legacy of Ida B. Wells and how she changed history in so many ways.

  • S02E43 Luxury Fashion Haul!!-- Sleeping with the Enemy

    • January 19, 2023

    What do you think of when you think of “Luxury Fashion”? Glitz, glamor, status?…Nazis, perhaps?? Plot twist I know. In today’s episode, we talk about a few luxury fashion brands that have some pretty shady histories of racism, sexual assault, secret love children, and Nazis. It’ll really make you think before you buy or not. Either way, I fully support horizontal collaborations.

  • S02E44 FYC: For your Corruption

    • January 26, 2023

    It’s Award Show Season Babbbyyy. The Glitz! The Glamour! The Scandal?!?! Oh yes, Award Shows are full of scandals, corruption, and buying awards. In today’s episode, we go to the very beginning of Awards Shows and how from the get-go they were shady, shady events. And even if you think you know all about the dark side of awards, you’ve got no idea.

  • S02E45 Dying for Minimum Wage or Surviving on the Bare Minimum

    • February 2, 2023

    I feel like every day there is some new group of people going on strike. And I'm always like Hell Yeah! Stick it to the man. But then I started doing some research on why there are so many strikes and started reading up on minimum wage and immediately was like bring me my sign, burn it all down. Because believe me, this shit is unbelievable. In today’s episode we get into the history of minimum wage and talk about how from the very start, it’s been about so much more than money.

  • S02E46 Tie me up Daddy - Top 5 Torture Techniques from Medieval Time

    • February 9, 2023

    Look torture is awful, but if there is one age that really turned torture into an artform, it was Medieval Times. No, not the super cool restaurant, we’re talking about the time in history where torture popped AWF. In today’s episode we take a little peak into the golden age of torture and go into the creativity and atrocious ways the medieval people used torture for entertainment.

  • S02E47 From Hoovers to Hentai: The Dark History of Porn

    • February 16, 2023

    PORN. Bom Chicka Wah Wah. We all know what it is, don’t lie Barbara, we know you know. And that’s because porn has been around for a long time. There really isn’t one phase of history where you can’t find some kind of porn. I mean even cavemen had porn. In today’s episode we go into the history of porn and specifically America’s turbulent history with it. MMmhmmm. Don’t watch this one with grandma, okay? You’ve been warned.

  • S02E48 That $7 Shirt Is Making You Sick: Fast Fashion vs. the World

    • February 23, 2023

    I feel like there is a new trend every two days. And I do not know how to keep up. And by the time I figure it out, I’m already like four trends behind. But I just don’t know how people are buying these trends so quickly. How are people staying on top of all these new clothes we need every week? And turns out the answer is a little thing known as “fast fashion”. In today’s episode we get into fast fashion. It’s been around for longer than you think and its impact and damage is even more than you think. Sorry babe, but you’re gonna take a real hard look at your closet after this one.

  • S02E49 The Power of Hate - Death to Disco

    • March 2, 2023

    Would you believe me if I told you that one grumpy radio DJ from Chicago changed the face of the music industry as we know it? And that he did this with exploding records and frisbees of death? Well, let me explain…because that is all true. In today’s episode, we talk about Disco Demolition Night. And how it altered the path of not only Disco Music but all pop music as we know it today.

  • S02E50 Why You'll Probably Fail the SATs

    • March 9, 2023

    Okay, so we can’t talk about SATs and college admission without mentioning Aunt Becky. That scandal kind of blew the whole thing open. But Aunt Becky wasn’t the first person ever to use money to help her kid get into college. Far from it. And there is one element of college admissions where there is a lot of money floating around, too much money. I mean we’re talking billion-dollar industry money…the SATs. In today’s episode, we look into the history of the SATs, how it started, why we have it, why there’s so much money in it, and try to figure out who the f is even on The College Board. Who is it???

  • S02E51 When Beauty Kills: Secrets of the Plastic Surgery

    • March 16, 2023

    How old do you think plastic surgery is? I thought it started like 50/60 years ago. But then someone told me it started because of soldiers injured in WWI, GASP. But then someone else said that forms of plastic surgery had been around since before Jesus. I. Was. Shooketh. I needed to know more. So I started digging, and oooo baby. In today’s episode, we get into the history of Plastic Surgery. How it started, why it started, and when it started. And what does a dog with fake boobs have to do with it??

  • S02E52 Cannibalism, Child-Trafficking, & Striptease: the Truth Disney Buried

    • March 23, 2023

    Princesses. They’re gorgeous, they’re happy, they’re all sparkles and rainbows and everything good. But what if I told you the stories behind some of our favorite princesses are dark? Like DARK dark. In today’s episode, we look at some of our favorite fairy tales and their origin story. And to no ones surprise… Disney didn’t exactly get it right.

  • S02E53 A Nepo Baby’s Hollywood Castle: Billionaire King William Hearst

    • March 30, 2023

    We’ve talked about William Hearst on here before. He is one of the OG Nepo Babies. On top of being born into wealth, he pretty much ran the newspaper industry so he was rolling in it. And one of the big things he spent his cashola on was his house, nay his CASTLE. Oh yeah. In today’s episode, we are talking about Hearst Castle. No surprise here, but the story behind a castle in California is juicy and I have been dying to share this one with you all. Get ready to hear all about this nepo baby’s pimped-out crib.

  • S02E54 Wanna Make 10 Million Dollars? Find This Painting: Craziest Art Heists in History

    • April 6, 2023

    Would you like to make an easy $10 Million? Well get in close, let me in on a secret. You just have to solve the biggest art theft in history. For real. There’s a page on the FBI website and everything. Who wants to help me and split the money? In today’s episode we talk all about Art Heists throughout history. Yes we talk about this unsolved Boston heist, but also about the most successful art theft and the dude who just up and walked out of the Louver with the Mona Lisa. Yes just walked out with it.

  • S02E55 Legalized Murder: When The Purge Happened In America - Red Summer of 1919

    • April 13, 2023

    Remember that movie, The Purge? The one where for one day only you could commit whatever crime you wanted. Yeah, back when it came out in 2013, everyone was losing their minds. They were so worried that people would just randomly start murdering each other. Well, what if I told you there was already a real-life Purge that had happened in America over a hundred years ago? Well, Buckle Up Baby. In today’s episode, we’re talking about the Red Summer of 1919. A time in history when riots broke out in 26 different cities across the country and the cops were just letting people murder.

  • S02E56 Dirty Water, Wikileaks, and Anthrax?! Would You Die For Your Country?

    • April 20, 2023

    Welcome to Dark History, the show where we talk about that hot history goss. And today we’re talking about a new kind of gossip: the kind that could both save and ruin lives, should you blow the whistle. That’s right, today’s episode is on whistleblowers—people that saw something and said something, despite the risk to themselves. Because those in power don’t like it when you pull down their ivory tower. It’s a dirty job, but someone’s gotta do it.

  • S02E57 Abusive Prisons or Animal Oasis: Are Zoos Evil?

    • April 27, 2023

    When you think of the zoo, what comes to mind? Saying hi to cute animals? That’s what I thought too, until I started digging and learned that zoos are way darker than I thought. And when I say darker, I mean human zoos with REAL people and a black market animal trade. Let me know what you guys think about this one and if you want a human zoo episode.

  • S02E58 This Bloody Crime Saved Our Lives: The Dark History of 911

    • May 4, 2023

    Today we are diving in to a topic personal to me - my mom was a 911 dispatcher when I was growing up. And this experience always made me wonder… what happened before 911 existed? I did some digging, and it turns it involves the Titanic sinking, a woman named Kitty in Queens, and the modern-day Karen.

  • S02E59 The Mass Murderer Nobody Talks About: Joseph Stalin Part 1

    • May 11, 2023

    We all know of Hitler, and you might know of Joseph Stalin… but did you know that Stalin was DEADLIER than Hitler? Me neither. Anyways, Stalin is a real rags-to-dictator type of guy. So much so that this story needs two episodes to do it justice, so stay tuned for part two.

  • S02E60 A Killer Deadlier than Hitler? Joseph Stalin Part 2

    • May 18, 2023

    Welcome to part two of our deep dive into the life of one of the most influential and destructive dictators of all time, Joseph Stalin. Stalin was responsible for the deaths of MILLIONS, and that’s just the beginning. Today, we’ll be covering his rise to power, reign of terror, and the devastating impact he had on the people of Russia. If you liked part one, it’s going to be an even wilder ride.

  • S02E61 Poison in your mouth? Your teeth are toxic!

    • May 25, 2023

    Did you know that grills, yes, for your teeth, have been around for thousands of years? Or that most fillings have mercury in them, even now? It turns out that the history of oral hygiene is full of crazy stories. Get ready for a mythical tooth worm, dental priests, and the mad hatter syndrome. This episode will have you racing to brush your teeth.

  • S02E62 Shocking Secrets of the Wine Industry: What Are They Hiding?

    • June 1, 2023

    Throw everything you know about wine out the window right now. In this episode, we’re talking about wine orgies, forced grape stomping, and hoarding wine just like we hoarded toilet paper during the start of the pandemic. Not to mention a whole host of wine secrets… enough to shock even the biggest wine lover into thinking twice before pouring the next glass!

  • S02E63 LOST & FOUND: New York’s Secret Mass Grave Site

    • June 8, 2023

    Today we’re talking about a place that NYC has tried to erase from its maps: Hart Island. Since the day it was discovered, it has been used as a prison, a war training camp, and even an insane asylum. Today, millions of dead bodies are kept on the island- right next to New Yorkers who don’t even know it exists. So sit back, relax, and find out what other secrets this place is hiding.

  • S02E64 Magic Tramp Stamps and Taboo Tattoos

    • June 15, 2023

    Today we’re diving into a topic that has always been controversial: tattoos. Did you know that in Japan, tattoos could change your whole life- or even mark you with a death sentence? From ancient magic to modern-day men parading the streets in nothing but tighty whities, this episode is full of spicy stories that’ll keep you on pins and needles (pun intended).

  • S02E65 Filthy Rich: Dirty Secrets of the World’s First Billionaire

    • June 22, 2023

    Today we’re discussing the world’s first ever billionaire- John D. Rockefeller. This guy was money obsessed, and I mean OBSESSED. We’re talking manifestation, threatening people, destroying families, and just generally doing whatever it took. John’s life was quite a unique one, and this episode left me wondering: was he smart, or was he just a sleaze bag? Either way, he changed the world forever.

  • S02E66 Death by Lipstick: Secrecy, Sorcery & Satanic Rituals Behind Makeup

    • June 29, 2023

    If you watch my videos, you probably know that I LOVE makeup. I buy it, I wear it, I bathe in it, I AM IT. So of course it got me thinking… So I did some digging, and I was surprised to discover that makeup has a dark past, and could even get you killed. Today we’re discussing magic, ritual and everything else that has to do with the dark history of makeup!

  • S02E67 The Joanie Awards! Best, Worst, & Absolute Worst

    • July 13, 2023

    Welcome to the most highly-anticipated event of the year: The Joanie Awards! Dark History's second season has taken us on an exhilarating journey through spine-chilling tales and mind-boggling discoveries. Today, we celebrate the outstanding stories that unfolded in Season 2, honoring the heroes, villains, and douchebags who have shaped history's shadowy tapestry.

Season 3

  • S03E01 The Secret Lives of America’s Founding Fathers: Who Really Started This Country?

    • August 3, 2023

    We’re kicking off season 3 with all of the juicy secrets of the daddies of America… aka the Founding Fathers. Turns out these guys were more than just a group of white men in funny wigs. I’m talking dog obsessions, pretending to hate slavery, pasta makers, and more. Get ready to learn a LOT more than you expected to know about our Founding Fathers.

  • S03E02 Branches of Government: Prison Over Pizza Leftovers? Who’s Really Making Our Laws?

    • August 10, 2023

    This all began because someone stole my pizza from the work fridge- you guys know the feeling, and I just wanted to make that ILLEGAL! So I did a little digging on how laws are actually made, and it turns out there’s some dirty, dirty goss on the branches of government. We’re talking elite dating apps, arguing with your cranky uncle at Thanksgiving, and 13,000 lb doors, so stay tuned for this one.

  • S03E03 Monsanto Chemical Company: The Silent Killer - Agent Orange, Birth Defects and Toxic Cereal

    • August 17, 2023

    In today’s episode, exposing the secrets behind the food we all buy at the grocery store. I’m talking about a company called Monsanto- and if you don’t know them, you should- because they changed the whole course of food history. There’s a lot to cover here, including blood-spitting fish, the deaths of thousands in Alabama, and Vietnam war weapons.

  • S03E04 Tyson’s Destructive Ways: A Simple Farm Turned Evil Empire

    • August 24, 2023

    The only thing juicier than a rotisserie chicken is the secrets it’s hiding: from hormone-stuffed drumsticks to some unexpected protein in your nuggets (ew, bugs!), we're uncovering the less-than-appetizing truths the chicken industry's been hiding. Brace yourselves, as today's episode is bound to ruffle more than just a few feathers!

  • S03E05 Dark History of Fast Food: Toxic, Tasty, and Targeting You

    • August 31, 2023

    Today I’m talking about fast food. I don't know about you, but fast food is my comfort food! But how did our favorite little treat come to be? It all started with a magical vending machine, and fast food is now as addictive as literal drugs. Stay curious my friends & see you next week!

  • S03E06 A Free Concert from Hell: Deadly Drugs, Murder and Music

    • September 7, 2023

    We all know about Woodstock, right? Peace and love, 60s hippie vibes. But did you know that Woodstock has an evil cousin? Today I’m talking about the Altamont Speedway Festival. And this isn’t your average bad festival- this was a day of bad drug trips, violent beatings, and MURDER!

  • S03E07 The Dark History of U.S. Infrastructure: Train Derailments, Freeway Collapses, and Biblical Floods

    • September 13, 2023

    So, literally a hundred years ago, America got a huge facelift. I’m talking about new water systems, roads, the whole fabric of the country basically. And, SHOCKER, it has not been updated since!!! That’s a long time without a little revamping, and today, I’m shedding some light on the nasty consequences of all that neglect.

  • S03E08 The Secrets of Starbucks - Pumpkin Spiced Lies

    • September 21, 2023

    It’s FALL, baby, and pumpkin spice season is upon us. What better time to do a dark dive into the dirty secrets of Starbucks? From killing thousands of orangutans to racial discrimination, their history is anything but sweet. It’s honestly surprising that they’re still around with all of these scandals. Stay tuned for more Dark History next week!

  • S03E09 Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta & The Struggle Of America's Farm Workers: The Dark History of the Chicano Movement

    • September 28, 2023

    Today we’re talking about the Chicano Movement. Before this movement, just saying the word “boycott” could get you SIX MONTHS in prison. And many Americans weren’t even allowed to take a break, drink water, or even use the bathroom. So yeah, this movement was pretty necessary. And it lead to one of the greatest fights for civil rights in US history.

  • S03E10 The Dark History Of Sugar: Slavery, Diabetes, and Addiction

    • October 5, 2023

    It’s October, which means, it’s the start of spooky season. With Halloween coming up, my mouth is watering just thinking about all of the candy I’m going to eat. But I always hear about how bad sugar is, so I wanted to find out why? Is sugar really as addictive as cocaine? Where does it come from? Are there hidden costs? And of course, the answers are darker than I could have ever imagined.

  • S03E11 Sleep Demons, Ghosts, & Alien Probes: Can Nightmares Really Kill You?

    • October 12, 2023

    Today, we're talking about conspiracy theories, and not the kind your annoying uncle brings up on Thanksgiving, but the spooky fun ones. From popular Mexican folktale of la llorona, to the government telling us aliens are real, to sleep demons, this is a spooky one.

  • S03E12 The Truth About Rasputin: Demonic Wizard or Healing Saint?

    • October 19, 2023

    This guy was one of my favorite cartoon characters ever, but it turns out he’s actually based on a super creepy villain. Today we’re talking about Rasputin, the man who was possibly responsible for the fall of the Russian monarchy. He was rumored to be able to speak with animals, have magical healing powers, and even… be immortal?

  • S03E13 Werewolf Trials, Real Life Dracula, & Where Zombies Actually Come From

    • October 26, 2023

    I’ve been wanting to do an episode on this topic for a while and October is the perfect time, because we’re talking about monsters! Where did monsters even come from? Why do the same weird creatures come up again in different societies all across the world, all throughout time?! Stay tuned for creepy tales filled with werewolves, vampires, and zombies.

  • S03E14 Conjugal Visits Could Save America? So Why are they taking them away?

    • November 2, 2023

    Today I’m talking all about conjugal visits, which is basically when prisoners are allowed some private time with a visitor. This topic is already pretty spicy, but finding out the history had me SHOOKETH. From hanky panky bribes to a fear of homosexuality, this is a wild one.

  • S03E15 A DOG SAVED THE WAR? Hero Animals You’ve never heard of

    • November 10, 2023

    Today I’m sharing stories of some of the greatest soldiers of all time- and they’re animals. From the 1000-pound brown bear who destroyed Nazis to a little terrier who could hear missiles from miles away, honestly these animals are amazing.

  • S03E16 Real life Willy Wonka: Freak candy disater that killed dozens

    • November 15, 2023

    Remember Augustus Gloop, the kid from Willy Wonka who drowned in chocolate? It turns out that happens in real life, too. Yep, candy has been responsible for MANY deaths. Think poisoned candy, a flood of burning molasses, and a chocolate Easter bunny explosion. Turns out candy has a not-so-sweet side, too.

  • S03E17 A billion dollar curse: The Dark History of The Lottery

    • November 29, 2023

    Did you know that the largest Powerball jackpot ever won was a mind-blowing 2.04 billion dollars? That's the equivalent of an average American working for 30,000 years. Sounds good, but there's a dark side dating back to the Old Testament. From funding America's birth to winners finding a tragic fate, get ready to explore the shadowy past of the lottery.

  • S03E18 The Dark History of Josephine Baker Part 1: The First Influencer Was Also a Spy

    • December 6, 2023

    Today's story is one that's so juicy it feels like a movie plot. I'm talking about fan favorite Josephine Baker. What if I told you that your favorite celebrity was not just an international superstar but also a secret agent who single-handedly saved thousands of lives?

  • S03E19 How This Icon Dazzled & Duped The Nazis | Josephine Baker Part 2

    • December 13, 2023

    Today, we have part 2 of our Josephine Baker story, and we’re learning how this badass performer-turned-Parisian icon became a lowkey secret agent leading up to WW2. She really did it ALL… We’re talking singing, flying airplanes, working against Hitler, and fighting for racial justice in the USA. You see why I had to make this a two parter!? Josephine used her fame to help others. SO LET’S ALL BE LIKE JOSEPHINE, OKAY?! Be a spy. F*** around. Figure it out.

  • S03E20 Dark History’s Naughty Gift Guide

    • December 20, 2023

    Today, we’ve got a special Dark History gift guide inspired by some of our favorite stories from this season. But while you’re stuffing your stockings, keep in mind that none of these goodies come guilt free! That’s why we’re unpacking the ugly plot behind each of these potential presents.

  • S03E21 The Dark History of Beauty Standards: Beauty is Pain

    • January 10, 2024

    We all know that “beauty” often comes with a high price to pay. I mean, worth it though, right? Who doesn’t like feeling beautiful? But what if I told you that “beauty” practices throughout history have been down right ugly? And not just any ugly–we’re talking foot binding, bone crushing, pube-plucking ugly. I guess the takeaway is that beauty standards have a shady past. And the question becomes: Who are we doing all this for?

  • S03E21 Nude, rude, and screwed: The Dark History of Nail Salons

    • January 17, 2024

    Did you ever consider that the baddest b*tch you know wouldn’t be anywhere without…the fall of Saigon? Turns out, this major historical moment has a LOT to do with the nail salons we spend so much time in today. But just how did these salons get their start? And at what cost do these salons keep us feeling cute? After this episode, I have a whole new level of respect for nail salons. Salute to you, nail techs!

  • S03E21 The Petty Creep who led the FBI | The Dark History of J. Edgar Hoover

    • January 31, 2024

    There’s always all this talk about who REALLY has the power in America. So I did a little digging, and discovered a not-so-great guy named J. Edgar Hoover–made famous for his 48-year racist reign over the FBI. And just as we thought, the guys pulling the strings ARE, in fact, also confiscating our nudes! Go figure. Between all the spying, lying, and legal murder of a beloved civil rights leader, J. Edgar Hoover would change America’s relationship to our governing powers–forever.

  • S03E22 PROOF that the FBI targeted, tracked, and unalived Americans! | The Dark History of COINTELPRO

    • February 7, 2024

    It’s no secret that the FBI has had a bad reputation for spying, sleuthing, and watchlists. But where did it all begin? At some point, the FBI went from just keeping an eye on people to actively trying to ELIMINATE them. They had their sights set on an up-and-coming inspirational leader from within a growing American movement, and they would do whatever it took to take them down. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the dark waters of… COINTELPRO.

  • S03E23 The Dark History of Valentine's Day: Hate Mail, Orgies, and Animal Sacrifice??

    • February 14, 2024

    Maybe it’s all the social pressure, but personally, Valentine’s Day is not my favorite holiday. And I know I’m not alone in that. Sometimes it feels like Valentine’s Day is just one big scam. Like, why is there only *ONE DAY* to show people we love them? Where did all this pressure come from?! Well turns out, Valentine’s Day has a super surprising backstory…

  • S03E24 The Dark History of Childbirth: We’ve been giving birth ALL WRONG

    • February 21, 2024

    Despite what some people may say, birth is not a problem that needs solving–it's a natural journey that we just need guidance to help us get through (And of course, doctors, midwives, doulas…you get it). As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how scary and borderline traumatizing childbirth can be. But not only that… how downright dangerous it is! So on that note, let’s get to it: the Dark History of Childbirth.

  • S03E25 The Dark History of Hedy Lamarr: You can Thank this Hollywood Bombshell for Wifi

    • February 28, 2024

    Did you know the person who paved the way for the invention of Wifii was one of the most controversial actresses in Hollywood? I know. Random! Today’s episode is about the one, the only, Hedy Lamarr. It turns out, we owe Hedy A LOT. Without her advancements in film and technology, the world would be a VERY different place… She came (onscreen), she saw (war), she conquered (Hollywood). And for that, thanks, Hedy!

  • S03E26 Dark History of Beanie Babies and Furby: Was this demonic 90s toy SPYING on us!?

    • March 6, 2024

    Remember Beanie Baby Mania? It was INSANE. Everyone thought these things would be worth thousands. And then outta nowhere, Furby showed up and completely changed the game, terrorizing kids and adults alike with those creepy little eyes and phrases. If you’re a 90s kid like me, chances are you had one of these iconic toys. But what if I told you the fads that had our parents duking it out in the Toys “R” Us parking lot ended up being…well, just fads?

  • S03E27 Dark History: Thousands of Women Died in These Secret Asylums

    • March 13, 2024

    I’ll be honest with you… it’s hard to shock me anymore. So when I tell you that this story that I found *SHOOK ME* to my core… you know it’s for real. While I was looking into lesser-known Irish history, I kept reading about these things called the Magdalene Laundries. And while something like “laundry” seems innocent enough, this story is anything but that. These Catholic Church corruption-founded facilities destroyed the lives of countless women, and justice has yet to be served–even to this day.

  • S03E28 Dark History: Wait... WHO'S paying for the Olympics?

    • March 20, 2024

    Now, before the Olympics were a thing, it was really just a bunch of Greek competitions about testing physical limits. They had no fancy ass equipment or Nike sponsorships. But since then, a lot of people have been abused, and cities have been destroyed. And apparently, people like you and I pay for the Olympics to exist!? Are they even uniting and inspiring us? And with such a hefty price tag, are they even worth it?

  • S03E29 The Dark History of Pigeons: Rats With Wings or Unknown Heroes?

    • March 27, 2024

    Never in history has there been a more unappreciated animal than the pigeon. Most people think they are just disease infected rats with wings. Right? But actually, pigeons were our companions for centuries. All they wanted to do was help us send our silly little messages and stop wars, and what did they get in return? A whole lot of injustice, that's for sure.

  • S03E30 The Dark History of The Kennedys: America's Cursed Royal Family

    • April 3, 2024

    The story of the Kennedy’s has been so romanticized by the media over the years. People are *obsessed* with them. I personally have never understood it, because I just assumed they were like an old money family that wiggled their way into politics and partied their life away because they could. But no… they were so much more than that.

  • S03E31 Dark History: How a Shakespeare Play Caused New York's Deadliest Riot

    • April 10, 2024

    Did you know one of America’s deadliest riots actually started inside a theater in New York. But instead of a drunk senator causing the chaos--I'm looking at you, Lauren Boebert--it was caused by two actors, with decades of beef between them. And this beef turned into blood in the streets...and I *NEVER* hear anyone talking about it!

  • S03E32 Dark History: The Hidden Truth Behind the Challenger Explosion

    • April 17, 2024

    The Challenger disaster is considered one of the worst tragedies in American history. It’s seared into our minds. But do we have any idea what went wrong? Like… why did it happen and who is responsible? So friends… I dug deep and found some answers. And lemme tell ya… I got some questions for NASA.

  • S03E33 The Dark History of "The Lavender Scare": An Unknown War on Queer American Citizens

    • May 8, 2024

    I recently came across this story about something called “The Lavender Scare.” I was like omg… first of all, what a beautiful name. Sounds nice, what is it? And turns out, it was a government sponsored witch hunt, hellbent on ruining the lives of millions of gay people in America… and nobody really talks about it. If you were targeted in the Lavender Scare, your life was over. Pack your bags. You’re moving back to Oklahoma.

  • S03E34 Dark History: Doctor or Dealer? How celeb doctors destroyed American icons

    • May 15, 2024

    People put their lives in the hands of doctors every day, but what if those doctors aren't so trustworthy? We've got a pair of crazy stories for you today... Dr. Max "Feelgood" Jacobson, who spent his career injecting politicians and Hollywood elite with his "feelgood" amphetamine vitamin cocktail till they were hooked, and Dr. Conrad Murray, the man who gave Michael Jackson a lethal dose of sedatives. But how did these crooked doctors get away with it for so long?

  • S03E35 Dark History: The Unknown Mother of the Civil Rights Movement

    • May 22, 2024

    Do you know the other woman who was a huge force behind the Underground railroad? I know what you're thinking, and no… I’m not talking about Harriet Tubman. Turns out there's another person we rarely talk about. And the Underground Railroad is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to her accomplishments.

  • S03E36 Dark History: Meet the Gritty Gals who Shot up America’s Wild West

    • June 5, 2024

    Everything you think you know about women in America’s Wild West is *WRONG.* I feel like we’ve been convinced that women back then were just quietly knitting, churning butter and popping out kids left and right. But THESE ladies? They were rough… they were tough… and they were smart and rebellious. And their legacies are just as complex as the men.

  • S03E37 Dark History: Trafficked & Beheaded!? The REAL Story behind your Disney Favs

    • June 12, 2024

    Once upon a time, bedtime stories were straight-up R-rated. Kids were being tucked in to tales about cannibalism, SA, body mutilation, and so much more. And the best part is, these stories are still around… but disguised… as your favorite *Disney* movies. That’s right, some of your favorite childhood memories have absolutely *horrific* origin stories.

  • S03E38 Dark History: Killer Lemonade and the Unknown Truth of Energy Drinks

    • June 19, 2024

    Look… I grew up in the early 2000s. I essentially had a Blue Ultra Monster glued in my hand at all times. And to be honest… I have no clue where energy drinks even came from. So what is the story? Who invented them? And why are we so obsessed with caffeine? Well friends… I found some answers.

  • S03E39 The Dark History of Gossip: Cancel Culture Started WAY Earlier Than You Think

    • July 10, 2024

    Gossip has played a *VERY* important role throughout history. It brings us together and makes us feel like we know our favorite celebrities or people in power, but it can also tear us apart. But who paved the way for gossip to be what it is today? Well, this is the Dark History of Gossip.

  • S03E40 Dark History: Debutante Balls, Prom, & Daughters for sale?

    • July 17, 2024

    Some of us loved Prom. Some of us thought it was stupid. Some of us didn’t even go. But why do we even do it? And when did Prom start? Turns out… the roots of this high school tradition goes back centuries and involves something *VERY* controversial. This is the Dark History of… Debutante Balls & Prom.

  • S03E41 Dark History: The Bloody Truth Behind Organ Transplants

    • July 24, 2024

    I stumbled upon this wild story around 3am the other day. It's about Claire Sylvia, who faced serious heart issues and underwent a successful heart transplant. However, upon waking up, she suddenly craved beer and Chicken McNugget, things she had never really enjoyed. It turned out her donor, upon investigation, had a deep love for both. The more Claire learned about him, the more she realized she had adopted aspects of his personality. It got me thinking—does this phenomenon occur with every organ transplant? And now they're talking about using pig hearts—will we all start behaving like pigs next? So many questions!

  • S03E42 The Funeral Industry is a SCAM! The Dark History of Death

    • August 7, 2024

    If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with death. Between Dark History and Murder Mystery & Makeup, it comes up *all* the time. But recently, I realized when people talk about death, they only talk about the event leading up to death--not what happens after. If you’re in America, dying isn’t necessarily about being remembered. It’s very freaking stressful. And… expensive. The industry makes over 20 billion dollars a year. So it got me thinking… why do we do this? Does it have to be this way? And who the hell is profiting off of all this death?

  • S03E43 The Dark History of Designer Babies: Creating the "Perfect" Child & Playing God

    • August 14, 2024

    Over the last hundred years, some WILD stuff has gone down in the world of genetics. Did you know that Stalin was once approached to be a sperm donor to create a perfect baby? Or that Jeffrey Epstein had a secret plan to create a squad of genius children on a mysterious ranch in New Mexico? Or that one man created a sperm bank that ONLY accepted “donations” from Nobel Prize winning scientists? Well, we’re gonna get into all that and more in this episode. This is the Dark History of… Designer Babies.

  • S03E44 The Dark History of The Guinness Family: Your Favorite Beer is CURSED!

    • August 21, 2024

    In the US, we have The Kennedys, but here are so many other families in history that are just as rich and influential. Sometimes more. And over in Ireland… they have the Guinness family. Yes, that Guinness. The beer your ex boyfriend loved… a little too much. Also the people who somehow became responsible for those World Record books? But when I started to get into it… I was shocked. I mean I thought the Kennedy Curse was bad. This was *WAY* worse. This family has been a part of some of the biggest events in Ireland’s history, and they have some serious skeletons in the closet.

  • S03E45 The Joanie Awards! The Only Award Show Where Everyone is Dead

    • September 4, 2024

    How the *HELL* are we at *ANOTHER* Joanie’s episode already?! I feel like we *JUST* did the last one… like… a week ago. Anyway… I’m so excited. I *LOVE* the Joanies. It’s just such a fun way to recap the season, revisit my favorite episodes and brush up on some wild cocktail facts that you may have forgotten about.

Season 4

  • S04E01 Death to Disco, Dancing, and Jazz!? The Men Who Ruined Music

    • September 11, 2024

    Whether it was some priests back in the 1500s, a narc who worked for the U.S. government or a Chicago-based DJ who just *HATED* disco music… there always seemed to be some disappointing man taking the fun out of it all. So today… I put together a very fun episode for you… today we are going to expose THE MEN WHO RUINED MUSIC!

  • S04E02 Ruby Ridge, Waco, & the bombing that TERRIFIED America

    • September 18, 2024

    Most of us here at Dark History know about the Waco massacre. But nobody really talks about how the Waco massacre led to the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in United States history. And the story of how we got there is *WILD.* I’m talking Doomsday preppers, a Neo Nazi book that still inspires people today, and a whole lot of weird cult stuff. This is... The Dark History of the Oklahoma City Bombing.

  • S04E03 Death by Ouija Board? Murder by Monopoly? The Dark History of Board Games

    • October 10, 2024
    • YouTube

    I don’t know about you, but the second summer is over, I’m pulling out the pumpkins, I’m lighting my candles, and I am ready to let Halloween take over. When I was going through my closet looking for Joan’s Halloween costumes, something fell from the shelf straight onto my head. It was my Ouija board. And look… I don’t know if it’s because of spooky season or what, but it spooked me. I mean yeah, it’s just a board game… but it is communicating with spirits...allegedly. It made me wonder… why are we letting kids casually communicate with the dead? So I got to searching. Turns out, there is a long, wild history behind the Ouija board, and some of America’s most popular board games. And a lot of their stories end in murder.

  • S04E04 Mail Order Brides, Lesbian Romance Novels, and Ancient Zombies? The Dark History of Vampires

    • October 17, 2024
    • YouTube

    I was trying to pull together a last minute Halloween costume for a party, and I was like maybe a sexy vampire? And then I got to thinking… why is it that all vampires are hot? If we started with Dracula, how did we get here? How did we get to Edward Cullen and Buffy and vampires basically being the sexiest villains out there? Well friends, I got to the bottom of it. Spoiler alert, it involves a toxic relationship between a famous poet and his doctor, French mail-order brides being sent to America, and lesbian vampire erotica.

  • S04E05 Top 3 Ancient Torture Techniques: Forgotten Punishments of the Past

    • October 24, 2024
    • YouTube

    I’ve been watching a lot of scary movies because… hello… It's Halloween. ‘Tis the season. So I put on an old classic… SAW. A couple of years ago, we did a Dark History episode on Ancient Torture. And that alone was way scarier than Saw. I went back and looked into my notes for that episode and girl… I forgot that there are all of these torture techniques we didn’t get to get into. And let’s just say… they’re keeping me up at night. These torture techniques are creative to say the least. So join me on this journey… again! For the Dark History of Ancient Torture… part 2!

  • S04E06 The Deadliest Cook in America? The Dark History of Typhoid Mary

    • November 7, 2024
    • YouTube

    Do you guys ever go to a restaurant and see someone being a jerk to the wait staff? And you’re like hello? Whatever they bring back to you is definitely going to have, best case, spit in it. The point is, there’s a door between you and the kitchen, so you can never really know what’s going on back there. We put a TON of trust into the people that handle our food. Which brings us to today’s story. Her name was Mary Mallon… some people know her as… Typhoid Mary. And she became known as the Deadliest Cook in America.

  • S04E07 Life Before Worker’s Rights: This Toxic Workplace Turned Girls Radioactive!?

    • November 14, 2024
    • YouTube

    Back in the 1800s, matches were a huge deal. In the days before electricity, you needed matches to light your candles, your lamps, your stove so you could cook, and even your fireplace so you wouldn’t freeze to death. Many considered matches to be the most important item in the home. But… ironically… the history of matches is dark. Making matches often led to slow, painful deaths. And workers who didn’t die had to live with brutal, face-altering injuries for the rest of their lives. And, it led to a legendary strike that changed worker’s rights forever.

  • S04E08 Sex, Booze & Conspiracy Theories: The Dark History of Air Travel

    • November 21, 2024
    • YouTube

    I personally hate traveling. I’m always doing something wrong and getting yelled at. But that’s just the price you pay to get somewhere quicker. But has it always been like this? Because I know I’ve seen photos of people in the 60’s having lobster and smoking cigarettes on the plane. Flight attendants had these incredible outfits, the flight had an *open bar*, champagne was served in crystal glasses. But when I got to researching, I realized… the old days of flying weren’t so romantic. Welcome to the Dark History of Air Travel.

  • S04E09 The Secret Sex Lives of Eunuchs

    • December 5, 2024

    Over many cultures and many years, being a Eunuch--or someone who has been castrated--has meant something different. Like In ancient China, Eunuchs were thought to be more trustworthy, so they became political advisors. Or In Italy, they realized it stopped men’s voices from developing. So Eunuchs formed a special class of opera singers. Sometimes the process of becoming a Eunuch was voluntary… And other times… not so much. It was done by force or even coercion. But where did these traditions start? Well my friends, today, we’re talking about the dark history of … EUNUCHS.

  • S04E10 Creators Ruined By Their Creations: Great Ideas, Deadly Consequences

    • December 12, 2024
    • YouTube

    Lawrence Sperry, the inventor of autopilot had ONE vice, and it's that he was... well, really horny. Allegedly, Lawrence would use autopilot to step away and have sexual relations with women on the plane. Lawrence was later involved in a plane crash… some say it was because he was using his autopilot to service a lady, others say it had something to do with the weather. He and his lady friend survived… but they were found completely stripped of their clothes. And the media went wild. Lawrence became kind of a joke and maybe because of that, he kind of gets forgotten for inventing autopilot. But this made me realize: the very thing Lawrence invented almost killed him. How ironic. And… he’s not the only one. Lawrence is just one of many creators who have had near death experiences with their creations. And some weren’t as lucky as he was. Welcome to the Dark History of creators RUINED by their creations.

  • S04E11 The Mass Murderer Who Inspired Hitler: How Mussolini Manipulated a Nation

    • December 19, 2024
    • YouTube

    I’m very interested in dictators. I read so much about Stalin last year. We even did a two parter on him, wild guy. Today’s main character has a LOT in common with Stalin… He was besties with Hitler. And he survived not one, not two, not three, but FOUR assassination attempts. On top of that, after he survived, he tried to cancel christmas. Today, we’re talking about… BENITO MUSSOLINI. He’s responsible for the deaths of HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of people. But what made him so powerful and why did so many people support him? Well, those are the questions I wanted to know the answers to, so let's learn about Benito Mussolini in today's episode of Dark History.

  • S04E12 Urine Beer, Insulin Comas, and Ozempic: the DH of Diabetes

    • January 9, 2025

    Diabetes is a disease that’s been around for thousands and thousands of years. Literally, since the neanderthals were walking around, painting in caves. Recently, I went to the doctor. And something happened. I had to pee in a cup, you know, pretty routine. But my doctor came back with this look on his face and he was like… your pee is full of sugar. Turns out, this could be a sign of diabetes. So while I was waiting for my test results… you know me. I was doom scrolling. Googling until 3am. Just preparing myself for the worst. I ended up not having diabetes, but even still… I couldn’t stop reading about it. Because this disease has an *insane* history. Before there was insulin and Ozempic, there were starvation diets, opium cocktails, and… beer made of literal pee. Let’s get into it.

  • S04E12 Pranks, Blackmail, and Perverts: America’s Weirdest Presidents

    • January 16, 2025

    History books put presidents on a pedestal. We think of them as these untouchable heroes. In school we learn about what made them good leaders… What their big achievements were. How they handled war. Disasters. Terrorist attacks. But what about the weird stuff they did that no one talks about? I’m talkin’ their quirks and their… un-presidential behaviors. When I looked into this, turns out, there were a lot of them.

  • S04E13 The Painkiller Problem: How Fentanyl Took Over America

    • January 23, 2025

    Last year I had a surgery so that I could breathe again, and it’s been nice, thanks for asking! I love breathing. But when I was in the hospital, the doctors gave me some really strong pain medication. I asked what it was, and the doctor told me it was fentanyl. At first I was like..fentanyl??? Doesn't that kill everyone? But after a few seconds hey… this is working really well. Turns out, Fentanyl has been used in hospitals for a LONG time. It’s used in epidurals, it’s prescribed for cancer patients, and there was a time when doctors were even putting it in LOLLIPOPS. Even though it feels like fentanyl came out of nowhere over the last few years, it has a long and crazy history. So how did America, big pharma, and a well meaning scientist create the most powerful and deadly opioid in history? WHERE is this stuff even coming from? And how did the fentanyl epidemic become a problem too big to stop?

  • S04E14 The Disturbing Truth About Amelia Earhart’s Final Flight: The Mystery That Haunts History

    • January 30, 2025

    We all know who Amelia Earhart was. You know, she was a really famous pilot, who set a bunch of records and I discovered… disappeared without a trace. Officially, no one knows what happened to Amelia, her plane,or the man who was on board with her. But boy oh boy, are there theories. So many theories. And surprisingly… a lot of research and evidence behind them. Some of them even had me reaching for my tin foil hat. But I’ll let you guys make up your minds for yourself. So today, we’re going to talk about Amelia Earhart - and what the hell happened to her.

  • S04E15 Sadism, Sex Potions, & Deer Musk?? History’s Most Disturbing Aphrodisiacs

    • February 13, 2025

    Since ancient times, people have sought out aphrodisiacs—those mysterious foods, herbs, and even animal parts thought to ignite desire, spark passion, and awaken romance. But do these so-called love enhancers really work? Are they based on science or just the stuff of legend? And what’s the strangest aphrodisiac ever used? Today, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of aphrodisiacs—exploring the wild, the weird, and the surprisingly real effects behind these tantalizing tales of romance.

  • S04E16 Icon, Sex Kitten, and BLACKLISTED?! WTF happened to Eartha Kitt

    • February 20, 2025

    Most celebrities are lucky to be known for one big thing. But some are famous for different things, across multiple generations. To me, those are the icons. And one of those people is Eartha Kitt. A lot of millennials recognize her as the voice of Yzma from The Emperor’s New Groove, that animated movie with the llama? But Eartha was so much more than a cartoon villain. She was a civil rights activist, an award winning singer, dancer, actor, teacher and author. And on top of all that, a sex icon! Learning about her story just made me even more obsessed with her. So let’s get into it. Welcome to the Dark History of the one, the only… Eartha Kitt.

  • S04E17 Saving Millions or Making us SICK?? The Shocking Truth Behind Vaping

    • February 27, 2025

    Even though it’s super controversial, it seems like everyone is vaping these days. If you’ve ever watched my FYP videos, you know that I like to take a hit of the devil’s lettuce from a vape pen. But every time I post one of those videos, without fail, someone is like, [annoying voice] “vaping is so bad for you!” or “hell yeah, I’m hitting my vape pen right now.” People are always on opposite sides of the fence. So of course, I had to bite the bullet and do some research. Who the hell invented the vape pen? And are they really that bad for you?

  • S04E18 Secrets of the Bloodthirsty Women Who Ruled the Sea

    • March 13, 2025

    All great rulers at some point had to deal with the people who had the real power… pirates. I know. It sounds like a joke. But it’s true. For centuries, pirates were a huge power to be reckoned with. They didn’t follow any rules, they were violent, unpredictable, and there were tens of thousands of them just waiting to pounce on other ships or cities at any given moment. Surprisingly, I discovered that some of the world’s most famous pirates were *women*. And their backstories… you guys. I was shooketh. So much drama. I had to spill the tea. Welcome to the Dark History of Pirates.

  • S04E19 Mobsters, Britney Spears, and the Raiders?! The Twisted Identity of Las Vegas

    • March 20, 2025

    The other day I was invited to a bachelorette party. And it wasn’t one of those simple, one day parties. NO. This was going to be an all-out, wild, expensive bachelorette weekend in… the city of Las Vegas. And I knew exactly what was going to happen. The shots. Thunder from Down Under. $300 dinners. No sleep. And I’m like… why is everyone obsessed with going to this random, expensive city in the middle of the desert? Don’t get me wrong… I love Vegas. But it’s kind of surprising that it’s still around. I mean, if you think about it, Vegas has almost been canceled over and over and over again. I mean there was the mob, the recession, covid, inflation… but Vegas *always* seems to find a way to survive. And I had to get to the bottom of why. So join me on this journey as we discuss The Dark History of… Las Vegas.

  • S04E20 When Jokes Turn DEADLY - The Most Shocking Pranks Gone Wrong

    • March 27, 2025

    You know what I love more than anything? A good prank. A perfectly timed jumpscare that makes someone pee their pants a little bit? I live for it. But I went back and I was looking at some famous pranks throughout history… And I realized, a lot of pranks go *too* far. Either because the pranker gets carried away, or because there’s a completely unexpected reaction from the prankee. And sometimes the pranks go so sideways, they cause freak accidents that no one sees coming. So join me for the strange, the sad, and the dark history of pranks gone wrong.

  • S04E21 The Psychotic Actor & Assassin Who Killed America’s Favorite President

    • April 10, 2025

    There are some things from history class that just stick in my brain. Mostly… the murders. I’m sure this isn’t surprising to anyone. Like JFK getting shot in his car. Or… Julius Caesar getting stabbed in the back. And, for some reason I always remembered that Abraham Lincoln was shot in a theater. I always thought, “wow, way to ruin everyone's night at the theater.” But that's really all I knew. But after some searching… I was SHOCKED to learn the real story.

  • S04E22 The Shocking Sex Scandals Behind This Infamous Dictator

    • April 17, 2025

    Julius Caesar...military genius, fashion icon, drama queen, and oh yeah—murdered by 60 of his coworkers. We've all heard the name before. Maybe you think of togas, Caesar salads (not from him btw), or that phrase "Beware the Ides of March." Whatever that means. But Caesar’s real story? Lemme tell you... way messier than what they told us in school. From pirate kidnappings to public sex scandals, and flexing on his enemies to literally dumping a bucket of #2 on a senator’s head— history remembers this man as some regal leader. But he was pure chaos. And his murder? Less Shakespearian tragedy and more Game of Thrones energy. So why did Rome turn on their “god”? And did Caesar kind of have it coming? Let’s get into it.

  • S04E23 Wendy & Britney: Hollywood Hostages? The DH of Conservatorships

    • April 24, 2025

    I love Wendy Williams. She’s an icon, she’s a legend, and “she is the moment.” From 2008 to 2021 Wendy hosted over 2,000 episodes of her show, got an Emmy nomination for best host, and honestly gave us some of the best memes and clips of all time. Then, in 2021, Wendy kind of… Vanished. No one really said what was going on. Just that she was dealing with “health problems.” Turns out, Wendy was put under something called… a“conservatorship.” Now this was allegedly to help her manage her life and money in this difficult time. But a lot of fans, myself included, were left wondering… who’s really calling the shots here? And is Wendy in trouble? It seems like we only hear about conservatorships when it comes to celebrities. But after I did some digging… it turns out, it’s *WAY* more common than we think. So let’s get into it.

  • S04E24 Britain's FIRST Female Serial Killer & A Gangster Mastermind??: DH of MOMSTERS

    • May 8, 2025

    The other day I was watching Monster In Law - remember that movie? It starred J Lo, her character falls in love with this dream guy, they get engaged, and everything is perfect until… she meets her mother-in-law. The mother in law is played by Jane Fonda by the way, she’s so good in it. And the whole movie is essentially about how this mother in law makes her future daughter in law’s life hell, so she can break up the marriage. I caught this movie on TV, around mother’s day. Which made me laugh, because when most of us think of mother’s day, we think of flowers, chocolate, cards that say I love you. But for so many people, that’s not the case. Sometimes moms can be the worst. Which got me thinking… who *are* the worst mothers in history? And what did they do to be considered *so* bad? Well, let me just say, I wasn’t expecting to find *so* many crazy stories. I had to keep it to two. So let’s get into it. Welcome to the Dark History of Momsters. Get it? Moms who are Monsters?!

  • S04E25 The Headlines called it “Justice,” In Reality it was a MASSACRE: the Chinese Massacre of 1871

    • May 15, 2025

    You know, after living in Los Angeles for a few years, I’ve learned a lot. Like, for example, if you tell people you live in LA, the first thing they ask about is celebrities. Who have I seen? What were they like? Am I friends with Kris Jenner? It’s always the same question. LA is huge and a lot of people don’t realize it has a *crazy* history. Hollywood and celebrity culture is just one small part of it. We’ve covered some LA history here on Dark History a couple of times. We did an episode on the Chicano Movement, and we even did one the Zoot Suit Riots. During my research for those episodes, I came across an event I had never heard of… the Chinese Massacre of 1871. You might think by the name, this massacre happened in China. But turns out, it happened right here in Los Angeles. It was essentially a mass murder killing spree, targeting Chinese American communities.

  • S04E26 The Shocking Truth About Dairy: Why are we *really* drinking milk?

    • May 22, 2025

    As a country, America has always had a complicated relationship with dairy. One month we hate it, the next month, some weird cottage cheese recipe goes viral, and we’re all over it again. But here's something I thought was a little strange. You never hear about dairy farmers or the dairy industry going bankrupt. It made me wonder why. Turns out… the dairy industry is in bed with the government. Why? Because the government desperately needs them not to fail. And that’s just the tip of the string cheese. We’ve been brainwashed into thinking we *need* dairy from the time we were kids. And there’s a wild reason for that. It involves Marie Antoinette, cheese caves, and… Dominoes? Guys… this is a wild one. And I’m not going to lie… you might think twice before ordering your next Taco Bell burrito. Welcome to the Dark History of Big Dairy!

  • S04E27 Walmart: From American dream to American NIGHTMARE

    • May 29, 2025

    I honestly don’t remember a time in my life when Walmart didn’t exist. Millions of Americans depend on their low prices just to get by in this economy. Walmart is a savior to some people. Others believe it’s the reason millions of Americans are in debt. I know… plot twist. Whatever you believe… Walmart is the biggest company in the world and *everyone* has an opinion on it. So of course I had to get the tea for us. Welcome to the Dark History of WALMART!

  • S04E28 Earthquakes: From Human Sacrifice to Nuclear Disaster… Is the Big One Coming?

    • June 11, 2025

    Do you guys remember earthquake drills? I grew up in California… So earthquake drills were just part of my life growing up. It seemed like we did earthquake drills nonstop. And despite that, I can never seem to remember what to do during an earthquake. Like, do I go to a doorway? Do I hide under a desk? Do I stop, drop, and roll? Oh right, that’s for fires. Some earthquakes are so big they have literally changed the size and rotation of the earth. The whole thing terrifies me because I learned that sometimes, an earthquake is just the *beginning* of a disaster. Earthquakes can trigger *other* events - like tsunamis, fires, and even… human sacrifice. And once upon a time, an earthquake almost caused a nuclear disaster. So let’s get into it.

  • S04E29 Stripper Wars: Chippendales’ Glamour, Greed & MURDER?!

    • June 18, 2025

    For some reason, female nudity feels *way* more common than male nudity. In pop culture at least, we’re way more used to seeing women being naked and sexualized. Think how many times you see titties on TV. And then think about how everyone loses their minds when there’s a penis on HBO or White Lotus. It’s rare! Back in the 1950s, it was only men who had bachelor parties. Bachelorette parties? Not a thing. In those days, women would have bridal showers. And men got to have their wild night out. But by the 70s, feminism was going strong. Women were feeling a little more liberated. They wanted equality, and that meant that we wanted bachelorette parties, baby. Like, we want exactly what the guys are having. And this story is really about a few guys being in the right place at the right time. Because they started something over in Los Angeles that overlapped with the rise of porn, *and* female empowerment. Because what do you need for the perfect bachelorette party? Booze, penis straw

  • S04E30 Murder, Incest, and Castration: How Nero DESTROYED Rome

    • June 25, 2025

    So you guys know I love dictators. And you ended up *LOVING* the Caesar episode… So it made me wonder what other, *older* dictators were out there who I assumed were boring but actually had these scandalous lives. And that’s when I found out about a certain emperor we’re gonna talk about today. Not only did he mass murder an entire group of people, but he *personally* killed just about everyone who got close to him. And you might think okay, typical bloodthirsty tyrant. Been there, done that. But … no. No one has ever matched this guy's freak. Some of the dictators we’ve talked about are actually failed artists. And then they take revenge on the world by taking it over. But this guy… it’s almost like he didn’t care about being in power at all. All he wanted to do was sing. And dance. And have insane orgies with eunuchs. But instead… he was forced by his mother to rule Rome. Today I am coming to you with the insane TRUE story of one of the world’s first tyrants.

  • S04E31 How Bodybuilding Went from Freak Show to Fitness Empire

    • July 2, 2025

    You know, lately I’ve noticed something strange. It feels like every celebrity these days is... jacked. Like, not just in “good shape.” I’m talking veins popping out of places I didn’t even know veins existed. I mean, back in the day, you had, what? 2 or 3 action stars. But now? Even the comedians are huge. Like, why is Jim from the Office looking like he’s training for the Olympics?? All this got me thinking… When did we get so obsessed with muscles? Because I don’t remember Leonardo DiCaprio or Harrison Ford being jacked. They were just normal dudes. Where did it start? And is it even healthy to be so muscular? Today, we’re taking a little trip back in time to talk about the sweaty, sexy, and strange and Dark History of… bodybuilding.

  • S04E32 Who Invented Breakfast? The Breakfast Industry’s Dirty Little Secrets

    • July 16, 2025

    The other day I woke up starving — like, hangry. So I wandered into the kitchen and stood there, just… staring. Eggs? Too much work. Pancakes? Ehhh Toast? Meh. I mean why is choosing breakfast this complicated? It’s supposed to be “the most important meal of the day,” right? At least that’s what we’ve all been told. But who decided that? Who made the rules on what we should eat first thing in the morning? So I started digging — and what I found is, breakfast has never been just about food. It’s been a battlefield. A PR stunt. A marketing goldmine. And sometimes… even a political weapon. From early doctors who thought bland breakfasts could stop “sinful urges”… to the government pushing a food pyramid on America… to movements that fought for kids to actually have access to breakfast …it’s messy. Like spilled coffee on your white shirt messy.

  • S04E33 They Used Nun Urine For What?! The Dark History of Getting Pregnant

    • July 23, 2025

    One of my friends is having a baby, so we’ve been talking about baby stuff a lot. And of course… my stupid phone is listening. So now my TikTok feed is filled with all these freaking baby videos. Usually I just scroll past it, but the other day… one of them caught my eye. It was a viral video all about how this girl got pregnant because she took Mucinex. You know, the medicine for chest congestion? I know… so random. I thought this was a fake video but as I did more research, turns out *thousands* of people have tried this, and tons of them swear by it. But here’s the thing: this is nothing new. Since the dawn of time, humans have been trying desperately to multiply. People have been drinking strange potions, and performing controversial rituals, and even worshipping a metal penis for *centuries*. When it comes to making babies, people will try anything. So today, we’re diving into the weird, wild, and sometimes terrifying Dark history of fertility.

  • S04E34 The Most F*ed Up Baby Products in History

    • August 6, 2025

    The baby industry is worth over *$358 billion dollars.* I me an, things have come LONG way. But it was always like this, it used to be *way* simpler. But does that mean it was better? Turns out, there is a shocking history behind baby products I had never heard about. Many products that were marketed to parents to *help* their babies actually ended up seriously hurting or even killing them. And with new baby products popping up every day, I’m wondering… are we doomed to repeat the past? I can *not* wait to hear your thoughts on this one - whether you’re a parent or not. Welcome to the Dark History of Toxic Baby Products!

  • S04E35 The Oil Scandal They Tried to Erase from History

    • August 13, 2025

    Back in the 1920s, oil was the new gold. Because out of nowhere, all of a sudden, everything was running on it. Literally. Cars and airplanes were taking over. And if World War 1 taught us anything, it was that we needed an emergency stash of oil for the military… Just in case. It was like a gold rush… but with oil. And when there’s money on the table, somebody’s gonna get greedy. This is how a *huge* government scandal happened. I’m talking corruption, shady deals, and millions of dollars stuffed into a black briefcase. Today we’re diving into one of the dirtiest scandals in U.S. history. Before Watergate, before Enron, before Bill Clinton and Monica, there was… Teapot Dome. Welcome to the Dark History of Teapot Dome.

  • S04E36 Harmless or Toxic? The Hidden Killers in Your Beauty Routine

    • August 20, 2025

    Did you guys ever see those ads for the Rejuvenique face mask? It was this electric face mask that looked like it was straight out of Friday the 13th. Well, apparently, years later, the FDA issued a warning about this miracle device. Turns out, the Rejuvenique face mask was actually causing their skin to sag and age *more.* I could be wrong, but it makes me feel like it will only be another ten years before someone realizes that LED lights are *ALSO* doing more harm than good. And this sent me down a rabbit hole of beauty devices that are secretly, silently, killing us. From UV lights at the nail salon to asbestos in hair dryers… I have some questions. So today, we are dipping our polished little fingertips into the world of deadly beauty tools. Because it turns out some of the stuff we do to feel cute - like the innocent little gel manicure - might come with a major dark side. Buckle up for the dark history of deadly beauty tools!