Insomniacs: The Podcast

Ashley & Char

Just two girls talking (and sometimes laughing) about all things true crime, paranormal, and mysterious. We're here to present to you all of the creepy and scary stories that keep us up at night.

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Top 10 Insomniacs: The Podcast Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Insomniacs: The Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Insomniacs: The Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Insomniacs: The Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

74: H. H. Holmes and His Murder Castle

Insomniacs: The Podcast

12/30/24 • 81 min

In this final true crime episode, we’re closing the chapter on our podcast journey by diving into one of the most chilling cases in American history—H.H. Holmes and his infamous Murder Castle.

Over the past 18 months, this podcast has been a wild ride of learning, growth, and plenty of late-night research. As we take a step back in 2025 to pursue new adventures, we wanted to leave you with one last deep dive.

Join us as we unravel the twisted life of Holmes—from his early days as a con artist and medical student to the construction of his deadly hotel in Chicago, complete with hidden chambers, acid vats, and trapdoors. We’ll explore the dark secrets that led to his downfall, the mysterious disappearances linked to his name, and even the conspiracy theories connecting Holmes to Jack the Ripper.

Is the land where his castle once stood still haunted by the souls of his victims? You’ll have to listen to find out.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We’re not saying goodbye—just see you later.
Stay Safe. Stay Spooky. And Sweet Dreams!
Sources:
Wiki: HH Holmes
Britannica: HH Holmes Biography
HH Holmes Biography
Murder Castle
Crime Museum: HH Holmes
Mystery of HH Holmes
Chicago Hauntings
Was Holmes the Real Jack the Ripper
Whitechapel Jack

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Announcement: Insomniacs Turns One!

Insomniacs: The Podcast

07/01/24 • 3 min

Hey all! We can NOT believe that it has been 1 full year since our first episode dropped. It’s been a year full of learning curves and so many laughs, and we cannot express how thankful we are to everyone who has joined us on this crazy journey.
We will be taking a short break to rest, recharge, and start researching stories for Season Two! Don’t worry! We will be back with more terrifying tales on September 2, 2024. Keep an eye on our social media for updates, and reach out if you have any stories you would like us to cover.
But of course, we couldn’t leave you without a little editing treat, courtesy of Sean. We really put him through the wringer this year and he rose to the occasion every time!
Stay Spooky, my friends! Stay safe! Enjoy the Summer weather! And Sweet Dreams!

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58: CIA Operations: Real or Conspiracy?

Insomniacs: The Podcast

09/09/24 • 65 min

Welcome back from the summer break! For the second episode of season 2, we're diving into something we know you love: conspiracy theories. Inspired by some of our favorite episodes from Season 1, we’re tackling a new angle on a familiar theme: the shadowy world of CIA cover-ups.

But this time, there’s a twist! Instead of focusing on just one conspiracy, we’re going to explore a handful of supposed CIA operations and let you guess whether they’re real or just wild conspiracies. From mind control experiments to eavesdropping housecats and secret propaganda campaigns, we’ll delve into:

Project MK-Ultra: A covert CIA program that allegedly tested drugs and other methods for mind control on unsuspecting U.S. citizens.
Operation Northwoods: A proposal to stage terrorist attacks on American soil and blame Cuba, all to justify a military invasion.
Operation Acoustic Kitty: The CIA's bizarre attempt to turn a cat into a spying device.
Operation Mockingbird: A secret effort to influence media narratives and promote U.S. propaganda at home and abroad.

Throughout the episode, we'll present each operation in detail, and you'll have to decide: CIA fact or conspiracy fiction? We’ll reveal the truth at the end. So, get ready to challenge your knowledge and question what you thought you knew about the world's most infamous intelligence agency!
Sources:

https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/document/06760269

https://nsarchive2.gwu.edu/news/20010430/northwoods.pdf

https://unredacted.com/2010/03/05/document-friday-acoustic-kitty/

https://www.history.com/news/cia-spy-cat-espionage-fail

https://www.cia.gov/resources/csi/studies-in-intelligence/archives/vol-38-no-5/origins-of-the-congress-for-cultural-freedom-1949-1950/

https://daily.jstor.org/was-modern-art-really-a-cia-psy-op/

https://www.intelligence.senate.gov/sites/default/files/hearings/ciasuseofjournal00unit.pdf

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38: The Florida Killer Clown

Insomniacs: The Podcast

02/26/24 • 58 min

In 1990 in Palm Beach County, Florida, Marlene Warren was shot at point-blank range, and killed at her home by a person dressed as a clown, who arrived at her doorstep carrying flowers and balloons. The clown calmly left the scene and drove off in their getaway car, leaving Marlene to die two days later in the hospital. The shooter was described by Marlene's son, who had witnessed the event, to be a six-foot-tall, slender, male figure, although it could not be confirmed, as the incident happened within seconds.

The case remained unsolved for years, but in 2017, authorities arrested a woman named Sheila Keen-Warren, who had married Marlene Warren's husband, Michael Warren, several years after the murder. Sheila was identified as the person who dressed as the clown and carried out the killing. The investigation revealed that she and Michael Warren were having an affair at the time of Marlene's death and were suspected of planning the murder together.

Sheila was charged with first-degree murder, but later took a plea deal for second-degree murder and was sentenced to twelve years in prison in 2023. With the limited evidence in the file, the investigators could not definitively prove that Sheila was the gunman, as they did not have a murder weapon or any evidence to tie her to the crime scene except for synthetic orange fibers and human hair found in the getaway car. The case gained widespread attention due to the bizarre circumstances surrounding the murder and the twenty-seven-year period it took investigators to make an arrest. So if we can say that Sheila planned out the murder of Marlene, but was not the gunman, then who was? There may be at least one unknown killer clown still on the loose!
With that said, Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!

Thanks to Sean for making this episode super special! You are the best!

SOURCES:

Marlene Warren murder: Florida "killer clown" case ends with unexpected twist after three decades - CBS News

Sheila Keen Warren pleads guilty to shooting husband's 1st wife in 1990 killer clown case - ABC News (go.com)

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45: The Soap Maker of Correggio

Insomniacs: The Podcast

04/15/24 • 48 min

In this chilling episode, we delve into the twisted tale of Leonarda Cianciulli, better known as The Soap Maker of Correggio. Join us as we uncover the shocking details of her life and crimes that earned her this infamous title.

Born in 1893 in Italy, Leonarda's early life was marred by tragedy and superstition. From a traumatic childhood to ominous prophecies from fortune tellers, her path seemed destined for darkness. But it was her belief in a mother's curse and her desperate attempts to protect her son during World War II that led Leonarda down a path of unimaginable horror.

With meticulous planning and cunning deception, Leonarda lured her victims into her grasp, promising them a better life. Yet, behind her facade as the town's nurturing mother figure lay a cold-blooded killer with a macabre plan. Each victim met a gruesome fate, their bodies transformed into soap and tea cakes consumed by unsuspecting neighbors.

As the death toll rose, Leonarda's facade began to crack. Suspicion grew, leading to her eventual arrest and a trial that shocked the nation. But even in confinement, Leonarda's story remained shrouded in mystery and horror.
Stay spooky, friends, and sweet dreams! (And also, maybe don't eat before listening to this episode.)
Sean- another fabulous job, as always! Thank you for your hard work getting this episode together!
SOURCES:
Wiki- Leonarda Cianciulli
All That's Interesting- Leonarda Cianciulli
The Crimes of Leonarda Cianciulli
Murderpedia- Leonarda Cianciulli
Leonarda Cianciulli- The Soap Maker of Correggio

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34: The Mothman

Insomniacs: The Podcast

01/29/24 • 44 min

The Mothman is a cryptid often associated with sightings in the Point Pleasant area of West Virginia, USA, in the 1960s. Descriptions of the Mothman vary, but it is generally depicted as a large, winged creature with glowing red eyes. Witnesses claimed it could fly at high speeds and emit a screeching sound. Some reported him as being headless or having two eyes protruding just above the torso with bright red glowing eyes. Specifically, two young couples by the names of Roger and Linda Scarberry and Steve and Mary Mallette were driving down State Route 62 near an abandoned National Guard armory building and power plant. They reportedly saw a dark, very large humanoid figure, with glowing red eyes, standing around 6-7 feet tall, and witnessed it flying after them when they sped off into the night to get away.

The most famous Mothman incident occurred in 1966-1967, leading up to the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge in Point Pleasant in December 1967, leaving dozens dead. Some believe the Mothman sightings were a premonition or warning of the disaster, although there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim. Additionally, there is no evidence that the Mothman is here to harm us, but some believe it is inherently evil.
In any case, the myth surrounding the Mothman is a fascinating story to hear!!

Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!!
A huge thank you to Sean!! He makes these episodes amazing!
SOURCES:

An Ode to a Hometown Creature: Mothman of Point Pleasant, West Virginia | Folklife Magazine (si.edu)

List of Mothman references in popular culture | Cryptids and Myths Wiki | Fandom

Welcome To The 'TNT Area,' Home Of The Mothman : The Picture Show : NPR
MOTHMAN FESTIVAl® - HOME

Mothman - Wikipedia
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39: The Curse of Dudleytown, CT

Insomniacs: The Podcast

03/04/24 • 51 min

Dudleytown is a legendary and allegedly haunted ghost town located in Cornwall, Connecticut. The town's history dates back to the mid-18th century when it was settled by Thomas Griffis and his family, but the town is perhaps best known for the Dudley family, who settled in the area a few years later.
The Dudleytown legend often associates the family with tragedy, misfortune, and alleged paranormal activity. Various stories and myths have circulated over the years, suggesting that the town was cursed or haunted. Some tales involve reports of mysterious deaths, mental illness, dangerous creatures lurking in the surrounding forest, and other unfortunate events that befell the residents, contributing to the town's decline.
Today, Dudleytown is officially off-limits to visitors, but that hasn't stopped speculation on who, or what, may be lurking in those forests. Even Ed and Lorraine Warren believed the town to be a hotspot for demonic activity. Tune in to this episode, and then let us know your thoughts!
Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!
And of course, a big thanks to Sean for all the work he continues to do for us on these episodes!
SOURCES:
Wiki: Dudleytown
The Ghosts of Dudleytown
There's a haunted town in America that's been entirely abandoned and is illegal to visit
Dudleytown II: The most haunted place in the U.S.?
The One Town In America So Haunted That It's Illegal To Visit
The Truth About Dudleytown
The Dudleytown Curse: Connecticut's Village of the Damned

Podcast Recommendation:
Real Life Ghost Stories: Episode 214
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56: All the Scary Stories That Keep Us Up at Night

Insomniacs: The Podcast

07/01/24 • 107 min

Three cheers to 1 year! We wanted to make this anniversary episode extra special by covering some of the scariest urban legends that keep us up at night! In this episode, we compiled several stories that we think you’ll be just as spooked by as we were. We begin with the terrifying and tragic story La Llorona- a ghost known to lure children to the water with her cries... and then drown them. We move on to the creepy legend of Black Eyed Kids. If you encounter these children, DO NOT invite them inside under any circumstances. Not unless you want to be cursed.
We discuss Baba Yaga, a witch known for eating children but also prophesying the future. And speaking of terrifying women: do you believe in Bloody Mary? If you do, maybe don’t say so in front of a mirror- or do, it’s your funeral.
Our last two stories cover some more mischievous creatures. The Nian Rouge is well known in Detroit. Be sure to treat him with the respect he deserves, otherwise you may find yourself in terrible trouble. And finally, pukwudgies are magical creatures who live inside wooded areas and swamps. They are known to have several magical abilities which they use to lure people into the forest... and sometimes to their deaths. Be very wary if you happen to come across one!
As always, stay Spooky friends, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!
And of course- THANK YOU to the amazing Sean!
SOURCES:

The True Story of La Llorona
La Llorona| Britannica
The Legend of the Nain Rouge in Detroit
Baba Yaga - World History Encyclopedia
Nain Rouge - Wikipedia
Baba Yaga - Wikipedia
La Llorona - Wikipedia
Wiki- Black-Eyed Kids
Legend of BEKs
Everything You Need to Know About BEKs
Terrifying Encounters With BEKs
Wiki- Bloody Mary
Tale of Bloody Mary
Who Was Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary
Wiki- Pukwudgie
The Pukwudgie
Pukwudgie Sightings
What is a Pukwudgie
Facts About Pukwudgies

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57: Jack the Ripper

Insomniacs: The Podcast

09/02/24 • 51 min

Jack the Ripper is the name given to an unidentified serial killer who was active in the Whitechapel district of London in 1888. The killer's identity has never been confirmed, and the mystery surrounding Jack the Ripper has made him one of the most infamous criminals in history.
Jack the Ripper is believed to have murdered at least five women, often referred to as the "canonical five" victims: Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Jane Kelly. All were prostitutes, and their murders involved gruesome mutilations.
Despite numerous investigations, both at the time and in the years since, the identity of Jack the Ripper remains unknown. The case was one of the first to involve extensive media coverage and public interest, with newspapers often sensationalizing the murders and the killer.
The mystery of Jack the Ripper has inspired numerous books, films, documentaries, and theories, becoming a lasting part of popular culture. Criminologists and historians often study the case as an early example of a serial killer case that generated widespread public interest and fear.
We hope you enjoy learning as much about the details of this infamous case as much as we did!
Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!!
Big shout out to our producer, Sean! Thank you for making these episodes super special!
SOURCES:

Jack the Ripper | Identity, Facts, Victims, and Suspects | Britannica

The Timeline For The Jack The Ripper Murders (jack-the-ripper.org)

Jack the Ripper: Biography, Serial Killer, Suspects, Identity

Irish people in Great Britain - Wikipedia

Bloody Sunday (1887) - Wikipedia

Saucy Jacky postcard - Wikipedia

Dear Boss letter - Wikipedia

From Hell letter - Wikipedia

Jack the Ripper - Wikipedia

H. H. Holmes - Wikipedi

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16: The Bell Witch

Insomniacs: The Podcast

09/25/23 • 50 min

The tale of the Bell Witch began in the early 1800s in the very rural area of Northwest Tennessee called Red River near the town of Adams. The legend states in American folklore, that from 1817 to 1821, there was an invisible entity terrorizing farmer John Bell and his family and their small community. At first, it was only relatively harmless occurrences that kept happening in the Bell family home, such as knocking on walls, pulling blankets from the beds and etc. Not too long though, the occurrences became more violent as time went on. The Bell’s youngest daughter, Betsy seemed like she was maybe the target, as she would receive scratches and welts in the shape of handprints all over her body. With reports of strange apparitions, and then a visit from a famous American General, the tale of the Bell Witch attracted visitors far and wide. Was the entity merely a poltergeist of a disgruntled neighbor named Kate? Or was it the spirit of the town Witch with a wicked reputation amongst the townsfolk? In any case, the Bell Witch has made such an impact on American culture, that she inspired the 1999 cult classic, the Blair Witch Project. Sit, down, relax, and join us for this spooky tale!
Thank HUGE shout-out to Sean, our amazing and talented producer, for whom we can not live without!
SOURCES:
Bell Witch, The Spirit That Haunted A Tennessee Family In The 1800s (allthatsinteresting.com)

The Elusive, Maddening Mystery of the Bell Witch - Atlas Obscura

The Mystery Of The Bell Witch Haunting | Boogeymen | Real History - Bing video

Bell Witch Legend | Witch Legends | Famous Witches (homespunhaints.com)

10 Scary Facts About The Bell Witch Legend (ranker.com)

The Official Home Of The Bell Witch (bellwitchcave.com)

Bell Witch - Wikipedia
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