Step into the shadowed woods of the Smokies, where Cherokee lore reveals the lingering presence of the sgili, dark spirits like the terrifying Spearfinger and the shapeshifting Raven Mocker, who taunt and torture the living. We’ll journey into Oconaluftee Indian Village and hear how unseen spirits and shadowy figures make their presence known, from dorm walls dripping with blood to a costume designer who never misses opening night, even from beyond the grave.

This episode was created in collaboration with the Cherokee Historical Association, a nonprofit organization that serves as both a guardian and storyteller of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ history and culture.

A note of warning: topics covered in this episode may not be suitable for young listeners.

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