Welcome back to another episode of States of Discovery. In this seasonally apropos episode, our hosts dive into Halloween. But rather than just keeping things surface level here, we’re taking it a step further, uncovering the reasons why Halloween has surged in popularity, and how it has become a billion dollar business. Hosts Marisa and Sara explore the holiday's cultural impact, the allure of spooky tourism, and the reasons behind Millennials and Gen X's obsession with all things haunted. Featuring an insightful interview with Sarah McCosham, an editor at Only In Your State, this episode promises to illuminate why Halloween captivates us year after year.

Listen in as we cover:

• The bewitching legends and lore that define Halloween.
• How places with dark histories, like Salem and the Ohio State Reformatory, have transformed into popular tourist destinations.
• The significant impact of Millennials and Gen X on Halloween celebrations and spending.
• The psychological thrill of horror films and their connection to the Halloween experience.
• Personal anecdotes and insights from Marisa’s trip to Salem.
• A chilling interview with Sarah McCosham about her visit to the haunted Ohio State Reformatory.

Key Highlights:

• The transformation of tragic histories into thriving tourist attractions.
• Why Halloween has become a multi-billion dollar industry, with record spending in recent years.
• The role of social media in amplifying Halloween enthusiasm among younger generations.
• The science behind why we enjoy being scared and how horror movies tap into our primal instincts.

Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review States of Discovery on your favorite podcast platform. We love hearing from our listeners, so share your own fair memories and suggestions for future episodes with us!

Connect With Us:

• Phone Number: 805-298-1420 - Leave us a message! We’d love to hear from you.
• Email: podcast@onlyinyourstate.com

Join us on this spooky journey as we uncover the fascinating stories and experiences that make Halloween a beloved cultural movement!