DiscoverThe Box of Oddities
The Box of Oddities

The Box of Oddities

Author: Kat & Jethro Gilligan Toth

Subscribed: 52,276Played: 3,603,735
Share

Description

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

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


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


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

717 Episodes
Reverse
Inbox Of Oddities #034

Inbox Of Oddities #034

2025-01-1027:39

The Inbox of Oddities is a delightful bonus episode where Kat and Jethro dive into the treasure trove of listener emails, comments, and messages sent by you—the ever-curious Freak Family. From spine-tingling personal encounters with the paranormal to bizarre trivia, mysterious coincidences, and even a touch of the hilariously strange, this episode is a wild ride of oddities shared by the ones who make this community so special. Tune in for heartfelt stories, jaw-dropping revelations, and the signature humor that makes every episode of The Box of Oddities an unforgettable experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever felt like tossing a message in a bottle was a hopeless romantic gesture? It could happen. In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we dive into the most jaw-dropping, fate-defying, and downright fascinating messages ever plucked from the sea. One note delivered a message from the sinking Titanic, while another saved the lives of a family in the most bizarre way. 🐠✨ Then, grab your flashlight and a skeptical friend—we’re heading to Loveland, Ohio, where the legendary Frogman has been leaping into our nightmares. Is it a mutant amphibian, an elaborate hoax, or just your average guy in a lizard suit? 🐸🌙 Explore the strange sightings, the spine-tingling eyewitness accounts, and why this cryptid has people croaking with curiosity. Tune in for stories that will leave you asking: What else is out there, floating just beyond our understanding? #Podcast #Mystery #MessagesInBottles #Frogman #WeirdHistory #Cryptids Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mothman's Fine Booty

Mothman's Fine Booty

2025-01-0644:38

What if that familiar face isn’t so familiar after all? In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we delve into the eerie world of mimics—ghostly or demonic entities that not only haunt objects but impersonate the people you trust most. Could your best friend’s doppelgänger be lurking in plain sight? You might never look at your loved ones the same way again. Then, prepare for your brain to shatter (unlike this glass) as we unravel the mystery of Prince Rupert’s Drop, a seemingly fragile glass creation that can withstand the crushing weight of a jumbo jet but disintegrates instantly when its tail is snapped. What kind of sorcery is this? Science that feels like magic, that’s what. Tune in for a double dose of unsettling and awe-inspiring oddities—you won’t want to miss it. #Paranormal #WeirdScience #Mimics #PrinceRupertsDrop #Podcast #BoxOfOddities Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #033

Inbox Of Oddities #033

2025-01-0224:01

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Kat and Jethro in this special New Year episode of The Box of Oddities, where they revisit some of the most intriguing topics from past New Year celebrations. This episode is a delightful blend of history, humor, and the bizarre, perfect for kicking off the new year with a fresh perspective. -The Bizarre History of the Calendar: Discover how various cultures have marked the passage of time, including the quirky Roman calendar and the radical French Republican calendar, which attempted to redefine time itself during the Revolution. Learn about the strange rituals and beliefs that accompany these systems, revealing that our understanding of time is anything but straightforward. - The Memorial Mound in Alabama: Explore the eerie tale of a mausoleum that became infamous for its abrupt closure and the mysteries surrounding it. This story delves into themes of mortality and remembrance, offering a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into how we honor those who have passed. - Weird Conversation Starters: Get ready for your next social gathering with an arsenal of bizarre conversation starters. These prompts are designed to break the ice and spark memorable discussions, ensuring you never have an awkward silence again. - Crazy Tricks with Numbers: Uncover the mathematical oddities that can amaze your friends and family. Whether it's mind-bending number patterns or surprising calculations, this segment will equip you with fun facts that make numbers useful and entertaining. Tune in for a humorous and enlightening journey through these peculiar topics as Kat and Jethro celebrate the New Year with curiosity! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #032

Inbox Of Oddities #032

2024-12-2626:14

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get ready for a holiday treat that’s anything but merry and bright! In this special Christmas episode of The Box of Oddities, we unwrap a chilling assortment of haunted toy stories just in time for the festive season. Revisit the spine-tingling tales of infamous cursed playthings like Robert the Doll and Annabelle as we delve deeper into their eerie histories and the unsettling mysteries they carry. Hear firsthand accounts from people who claim to have encountered malevolent toy terrors lurking in their attics, basements, and beneath the Christmas tree. It’s a nightmarish twist on the Yuletide spirit—perfect for true believers, skeptics, and anyone craving a dash of holiday horror. Tune in as we discover why some toys are better left unopened, and remember: just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean these dolls will play nice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #031

Inbox Of Oddities #031

2024-12-1925:021

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sad Macaroni

Sad Macaroni

2024-12-1601:05:171

Prepare to jump head-first into a collection of fascinating and downright peculiar stories in this The Box of Oddities episode. First, we unravel the bizarre tale of a woman who holds the record for the most births in a lifetime. How many children does it take to make history? You’ll be shocked. Next, we explore the invention of Zero and the curious way our modern numeric system came to life—a tale that’s both ancient and strangely modern. Then, we turn our attention to cutting-edge technology with a look at the Willow Quantum computer chip. This futuristic marvel is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with capabilities that could change everything we know about computing and even reality. And lastly, we take you on a global journey to update you on the weirdest and most unique ways people celebrate the holidays across the world. This episode has it all, whether it’s bizarre traditions or shocking celebrations! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, Kat tells us about some very unusual holiday traditions from around the world (it includes carving out the stomachs of children). Jethro shares stories from history when folks were not garbage people to each other. Freak Family Favorites: it’s better than having your ears boxed.  If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A Wolf With A Scalpel

A Wolf With A Scalpel

2024-12-0901:02:583

The Box of Oddities: The Disappearance of Yara Gambirasio, Trophic Cascades, Witold Pilecki & Notre Dame Secrets In this episode of The Box of Oddities, we explore four extraordinary and mysterious stories. First, we investigate the chilling, bizarre, and puzzling disappearance of Yara Gambirasio, whose case continues to haunt investigators. Then, we uncover how a simple shift in an ecosystem—known as a trophic cascade—can have massive and unpredictable effects on the planet. Next, we journey into history, highlighting the heroic life of Witold Pilecki, a man who actually broke into Auschwitz and became a symbol of selfless resistance. Finally, we uncover a fascinating discovery beneath the Notre Dame cathedral—an astonishing find that sheds new light on the history of this iconic structure. The Box of Oddities is a whirlwind of dark mysteries, natural wonders, and heroic feats that will leave you questioning everything! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #030

Inbox Of Oddities #030

2024-12-0527:531

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bengay For Horses

Bengay For Horses

2024-12-0201:00:512

Join Kat and Jethro as they dive into four bizarre stories that will leave you questioning reality. First, meet Michael Malloy, the man who survived multiple attempts on his life during the Great Depression—his resilience will astound you. Then, journey back to 1838 to discover Henriette d'Angeville, the first woman to successfully climb Mont Blanc, defying the odds and the expectations of her time. Next, hear the chilling story of Jane Stewart, who dreamed of the 9/11 attacks one day before they happened, sparking questions about premonitions and the supernatural. Finally, explore popcorn's strange and often forgotten history—how this beloved snack rose to fame in unexpected ways, from ancient times to modern-day cinema. Join us for an episode filled with mystery, history, and the unexplained, all with the signature Box of Oddities twist of humor and curiosity! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, Jethro learns how a dead guy in a gardening shed inspired a winter festival, and Kat examines an animal so strange that it's been described as a mammal with scales like a reptile and a gizzard-like a bird.   Whether you're a seasoned fan of the Box of Oddities or a newcomer to the world of the peculiar, this bonus episode is your passport to the extraordinary. Get ready to unravel the unexplained, and join us for Freak Family Favorites. If you would like to host your favorite Box of Oddities episode, Just record on your smartphone who you are, where you’re from, what your favorite story is and why …and anything else you would like to share. Then email it to curator@theboxofoddities.com If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Cannibalistic Pilgrims

Cannibalistic Pilgrims

2024-11-2501:01:451

In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat, and Jethro take you on a journey through four wildly fascinating tales. First, we dive into Ray Kurzweil’s theory of mind uploading, exploring the mind-bending idea of transferring human consciousness into a digital format—could immortality be just a click away? Then, prepare for a grim story about amateur castration surgery—we have questions because sometimes, people’s DIY ambitions are better left untried. The mystery continues as we investigate the Kincaid Cave, a hidden location tied to ancient secrets and bizarre discoveries that have confounded experts for years. Finally, we uncover the symbolism behind the intricate designs of traditional Māori tattoos, known as tā moko, revealing the deep cultural meanings behind these markings. It’s an episode full of science, mystery, and culture—don’t miss it! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Freak Family Favorites, "It looked like a loaf of bread with teeth." Then, what looked like gelatin fell from the sky and gave people the flu: the fascinating Tibetan Buddhist Rainbow Body phenomenon and the mysterious Oakville Blobs. The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fairground Horse Carcass

Fairground Horse Carcass

2024-11-1801:04:11

In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat and Jethro dive into four perplexing stories that blur the line between history, mystery, and the supernatural. First, they explore the enigmatic Copper Scroll—is it a treasure map or something far more cryptic? Then, we journey to the streets of Brittany, where the Lioness of Brittany takes revenge in a tale that’s as chilling as it is captivating. From the supernatural to the technological, the duo wonders if smart devices are more than just gadgets—could they actually be portals to the beyond? Finally, they unravel the cosmic connection between Arcturus, a star 40 lightyears away, and its mysterious role in lighting up the 1933 Chicago World's Fair—all this with a healthy dose of humor, of course. Tune in to uncover the strange and unexpected! If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #029

Inbox Of Oddities #029

2024-11-1431:40

In this special episode of The Inbox of Oddities, we’re heading to the Windy City for a spine-tingling exploration of firsthand paranormal encounters in Chicago. Join Kat and Jethro as they team up with Ken and Matt from the Chicago-based Triviality Podcast to dive into the eerie and mysterious side of the city. From the haunted Bachelor's Grove Cemetary to the ghostly apparition of "Resurrection Mary" and other unexplainable phenomena, the crew will share chilling stories and personal experiences that might make you rethink your next trip to the Midwest. So, grab your flashlight, check under the bed, and prepare for a supernatural adventure with some of Chicago’s finest podcasting minds. You won’t want to miss this hauntingly fun episode! Listen to The Triviality Podcast Here. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Flamboyant Bigfoot

Flamboyant Bigfoot

2024-11-1101:02:532

Unveiling the Odd: Funeral Home Secrets, Quantum Minds & Perception Mysteries In this mind-bending episode of The Box of Oddities, Kat, and Jethro dive into four peculiar topics that will leave you questioning everything. First, a strange discovery at a Seattle funeral home—what was unearthed, and how does it tie into the Civil War? Then, journey to the heart of Russia's enigmatic Lake Baikal, a place with secrets as deep as its waters. Next, we explore the mind-blowing Orch OR theory that suggests your brain might actually be a biological quantum computer, shaping your reality as you perceive it. And finally, we'll look closer at the fascinating world of perception phenomena—how our senses might be fooling us in ways we never expected. Tune in for an episode packed with oddities and fresh perspectives on the strange, the mysterious, and the downright bizarre! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inbox Of Oddities #028

Inbox Of Oddities #028

2024-11-0726:28

The Inbox of Oddities is a special bonus episode of The Box of Oddities podcast, where we delve into the treasure trove of our listeners' emails, messages, and audio submissions. In this unique episode, we share our audience's weird and wonderful stories, bringing their remarkable experiences and odd encounters to the forefront. Join us as we read your emails and messages and play audio recordings you've sent in, allowing you to become an integral part of our show. It's a captivating journey through the strange and extraordinary moments that our listeners have experienced, making The Inbox of Oddities a must-listen bonus episode for anyone who enjoys the bizarre and unexplainable. If you would like to advertise on The Box of Oddities, contact advertising@airwavemedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
loading
Comments (2373)

Abby Mercer

cue me sobbing happy feels tears at the end of JG's story 😭🥰

Jan 8th
Reply

TheMaskedheel

when you guys post the crazy fan stories you lose credibility. You guys already have too many fringe fans.

Jan 6th
Reply

Denise Nichols

I remember when you guys did this before.some guy went crazy

Dec 23rd
Reply

Denise Nichols

lol. I remember this story !!!

Dec 9th
Reply

Denise Nichols

Oh boy ! Can't wait for this one tonite Saving it for my time before bed.

Nov 30th
Reply

Denise Nichols

I think the Ark was baloney. Like all other "artifacts" of religion. People have been hearing voices from beyond forever telling them so many things People want to,need to, believe someone is in charge. The bible was written by men,just regular men and translated many times.Also men selected what went in it and left out much.

Nov 28th
Reply

Mrs. Kaety J. West

"*The-BOX-of-ODDITIES* •~•~• Boy, Are They Spooky!!" •§• William Shatner 💕🤩❤️

Nov 1st
Reply

Grunkle Hatter

kat finally doesn't talk about animals and she acts like a mocking child. I wish we replaced kat with Lindsey...

Oct 17th
Reply

Grunkle Hatter

more animal stuff from Kat boring

Oct 15th
Reply

Peona 12

That was a great story! She is a fantastic storyteller!

Oct 13th
Reply

Abby Mercer

CHORLES! Hahaha i love how these two play off their little oopsies 😂

Oct 11th
Reply

andrew ward

such lovely creatures. thanks for doing what you do

Oct 11th
Reply

Cam

#deathpositive love this, thanks for covering the topic of eco-friendly burials.

Oct 6th
Reply

Shawna

enjoyed hearing about Stonehenge

Sep 27th
Reply

Denise Nichols

I started listening to Shallow End from first episode and ofc loved it !! The banter between J.G. and Lindsey is so much fun with great episodes of how far down the drain people can go.Buckle up and get you some !

Sep 26th
Reply

Adam Echter

The film the woman was referencing was "They Live" with Rowdy Roddie Piper. 👍

Sep 22nd
Reply

Lori C.

for the love ... Kat is getting to be highly annoying. yah, I know a lot of people will disagree with me, but how many times are we going to hear the musing of some applying today's standards to times such as 1913. the cutesy act is overdone (i dont mean it just for this episode, but. It's a bunch of 'em)! Jethro.... listening for you!!

Sep 18th
Reply (1)

Denise Nichols

was it Archie Bunker that wanted Twinkies in his lunch every day?? I know he liked cling peached in heavy syrup too. boy that takes me back !!

Sep 17th
Reply (1)

Rita J. Behm-Campos

Thank you for saying the frequency of going to the bathroom was not just a me issue. Growing up my sister used to call me the family poodle. 1st because of the terrible perm job my mom gave me and 2nd was I had to use the bathroom at every place we visited that I knew had a bathroom. still have the issue, but lost the perm.

Sep 15th
Reply

Denise Nichols

You guys were gone for me on castbox completely for awhile. Then there was a few.I got them all now. I haven't been able to get Nan's since the first few episodes,not even able to find it on the Discover. Is she on Himalayan ?

Sep 15th
Reply