Canada Obscura

Hey everyone, we have decided to end Canada Obscura because we could not continue to dedicate time and effort to it as it deserves and that means you have not been getting the quality content you deserve. This journey has been nothing short of absolutely amazing, and we're so so so grateful to you following us and being here with us and for letting us do this silly show week after week. We hope you've enjoyed it, we hope you learned some stuff about Canada and about us, and we hope you take love for Canada with you. Thank you so much for being so wonderful, we love you so very much. We hope you've enjoyed this ride, take care of yourselves, and stay weird. 💜💜💜

Amby can do what he wants to do. Join us this week as Shelley tells us about the Oak Island Treasure and some of the potential explanations behind it. Mary talks about the life and times (and disappearance) of Ambrose Small, millionaire, scammer, womanizer, and theatre mogul of the 1900s. Super light trigger warnings this week - mentions of potential murder. That's it. Weird, right?

 When in doubt, take 'em out. This week, Mary tells us about the terrifying tale of a haunted Ikea couch. Shelley shares the life and times of Albert Johnson Walker - bookkeeper, fraudster, murderer.  Trigger warnings for: identity theft, fraud, murder, potential rape, abuse, and incest.

WE DID IT, WE HIT 50 EPISODES!! We want to thank you so much for joining us on this year-long, ridiculous ride we've been on, and for putting up with all of our endless bullshit. Here's to many more episodes to come! Join us as we celebrate by playing two games - Monster Superfight and Worse Way To Die. Also, Mary is drinking, so you should be drinking too.  Worse Way To Die does get kind of gruesome/gory, so trigger warnings for that. Enjoy!

Mozart was totally the heartthrob pop star of the 1700s.  This week, Shelley tells us the long and convoluted history of the haunted Club Le Cinq in Montreal, Quebec. Mary details the gruesome torture and cannibalism of two elderly victims at the hands of Guy LeBlonde in North Bay, Ontario. Strong trigger warnings for: assault, sexual assault, torture, mutilation, cannibalism, mental health discussion, suicidal ideation, discussions of medications.

We need lobster vigilantism to restore marine justice! This week, Mary shares with us about the ghosts haunting the Drumheller house in Calgary, and the supposed evidence of their existence collected. Shelley tells us about the lucrative lobster larceny cases that keep happening in Calgary and keep going unsolved.  Trigger warnings include brief mention of accidental death/suicide and potential animal cruelty. Much lighter one than our usual this week!

And... doing a bad job of it. This week, Shelley shares with us the legend of the Loup-Garou, the French-Canadian version of the Werewolf. Mary tells us about the horrific death of Iana Kasian at the hands of her fiance and former graphic novelist, screenwriter, and director, Blake Leibel. Very strong trigger warnings for: mutilation, discussion of mutilation, torture, and murder.

 Who knew the history behind sugar could be so dark? This week, Mary takes a step off the beaten path and debunks the “video evidence” of the Rake, a monster invented by creepypasta and apparently spotted in Gaspésie, Québec. Shelley shares with us the dark history of the Redpath family, the sugar moguls that have supplied Canada with sugar since 1854. Trigger warnings include: murder-suicide, gun violence, mental health discussion, and details of gun wounds.

This booty is an ATM machine! This week, Shelley gives us a double feature of the hauntings of Saskatchewan Hospital and the Souris Valley Mental Health Hospital, both former mental health institutions in Saskatchewan. Mary tells us the bold tale of Leston Lawrence who stole $190,000 worth of gold from the Royal Canadian Mint in the most ingenious of ways. Trigger warnings this episode include: mental health discussions, torture in the name of medical treatment, conditions of abuse.

Noun, a man who behaves dishonourably, especially towards women.  This week, Mary tells us about the Shuswaggi Lake Monster of Shuswap Lake, BC (now with added video footage!). Shelley brings us back one more time to the Massey family, this time to the (justified) murder of Bert Massey by his live-in maid. Trigger warnings this week include: attempted sexual assault, discussions of sexual assault, and murder. 

What's that boy? This is the longest episode yet? Wow! This week, Shelley tells us about the history and the hauntings of Hatley Castle in Victoria, B.C, built by the ridiculously rich James Dunsmuir. Mary goes into deep detail about the murder of Lin Jun at the hands of Luka Magnotta, including the airing of his murder (and rape and consumption) and the subsequent terrorizing of the public and running from the law. Very, very strong content warnings for: murder, sexual assault, assault, necrophilia, cannibalism, dismemberment, racism, animal cruelty, drug abuse, mental illness, mental illness discussion, and everything related to the above. Please, listen at your own discretion. We love you and want you to be okay. 

He's out for a walk, mind your own business, wouldja? This week, Mary tells us about the latest and clearest sighting of a Sasquatch in Squamish, BC, and whether or not the mystery has been debunked. Shelley shares with us the mysterious disappearance of Wendy Ratte, and the unbelievable mess of accusations, admissions, reveals, and legal battles surrounding the case. Trigger warnings: murder, assault, descriptions of murder, mental illness discussions, in-depth mentions of DID, MPD, and Schizophrenia. 

Look, there's just so much of it. Can we get a Cliffsnotes version, please? This week, Shelley tells us about the Great Amherst Mystery, filled with the poltergeist haunting of Esther Cox. Mary shares with us the murder of Lynne Harper and the decades-long subsequent legal battle surrounding accused murderer (and friend of Lynne) Steven Truscott. Trigger warnings include: strangling, rape, sexual assault, murder, discussion of decomposition. We don't go into too much detail, but it is mentioned.

Guillermo del Toro, who? This week, Mary tells us all about the death (and haunting!) of Tom Thomson, one of the famous Group of Seven. Shelley shares with us Mark Twitchell, the infamous Dexter killer (and self-titled filmmaker).  Trigger warnings include: assault, murder, dismemberment, suicide, and stuff of the like.

We'll never be able to afford property, will we. This week, Shelley tells us about the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse in the Toronto Islands and its gruesome history (and hauntings!). Mary shares with us the confusing and mysterious murder of Blair Adams. Strong content warnings for: murder, torture, sexual assault, assault, descriptions of assault, dismemberment, mutilation, etc. I'm sure I missed some, but you can probably extrapolate the type of stories we're sharing this episode.

Well folks, it was bound to happen sooner or later. This episode is a detour from our usual format and instead of stories, we're talking about our favourite (and hated) horror movies. We are both spread thin and this week we've had to rely on a less preparative topic. Thank you for letting us get silly!  General warnings for horror movie discussions and spoilers.

What day is it? What year??? Mommy I'm scared. This week, Shelley tells us about the famous (albeit haunted) Keg Mansion in the heart of Downtown Toronto. Mary talks about the spectacular movie-fodder priceless artifact heists of John Tillmann, as well as his unbelievably shitty nature. Trigger warnings for abuse and assault.

We're mixing it up a bit starting this week, but don't worry! We're still sticking to the theme of this podcast being a fuckshow of a fuckshow! This week, Mary tells us about the spooky happenings in the historical Deane House, and Shelley goes over some of the details of the mysterious death of Elisa Lam (and of course, expect a lot of debunking). Trigger warnings for mentions of domestic violence, drowning, the discovery of a body, and discussions of mental health.

Highway to the... danger hole? This week, Shelley tells us about the incredibly cool underwater lakeside resort ruins existing in the depths of Lake Minnewanka, Alberta. Mary's story, however, is of the first (known) serial killer of Canada, Clifford Olson, who was not only a horrific monster who murdered and raped 11 children, but caused plenty of legal controversy as well. Very strong trigger warnings for: rape, child sexual assault, murder, abuse. We talk about how he did his deeds in this one, so please be safe. 

**EDIT 2/5/2019 - Looks like Anchor had a distribution issue. Should be fixed now and available on all platforms. Sorry for the wait!** Layers and layers of discussion... just like an onion! This week, Mary tells us all about the Baldoon Mystery of Wallaceburg, Ontario. This one has everything - ghosts, hauntings, witchcraft, oh my! Shelley shares with us the brutal murder of 6-month-old Nikosis Cantre at the hands of 16-year-old Jacqueline Henderson, as well as her history of trauma and abuse. Strong trigger warnings for: child abuse, child sexual abuse, self-harm, mental illness, brutal murder of an infant, rape, and drug abuse.

We're back! Sorry for the missed week - your girls got snowed in. Also, it's flu season, y'all. This week, Shelley tells us about the terrifying legend of the Cabbagetown Tunnel Monster (which looked like it was a monkey/ferret/salamander/human???). Mary shares with us the horrible actions of Montreal Priest Brian Boucher and the Church's response. Strong trigger warnings for child sexual assault.

Exploitation is never a good look, honey. This week, Mary shares with us the natural (cough cough) and profitable talents of Medina, the Milton Psychic. Shelley tells us about Peter Demeter, who started with plotting to kill his wife and now holds the record of longest trial in Canadian history because this man just never seems to learn. General warnings of murder and violence. 

This one's controversial, kids, so buckle up. This week, Shelley tells us about the Vancouver Art Gallery, which is haunted by William Richard Hopkinson (or as Mary likes to refer to him, Willie Dicky) who was one hell of a xenophobic douchebag. Mary shares how Ivana Levkovic of Mississauga concealed a dead baby on her balcony, and the subsequent 6-year-long ridiculous court battle over legal technicalities after her superintendent discovered the body. Heavy trigger warnings for discussions of miscarriage, abortion, stillbirths, racism, and murder. 

HAPPY NEW YEAR KIDS! We spend some time talking about how and why New Years' resolutions are Hot Garbage and why neither of us believe in them. Mary tells us about the haunted Whitchurch-Stouffville Museum, which is very spooky and not at all boring. Shelley tells us about the horrific crimes (and ridiculous claims) of the Abbotsford Killer of BC.  Strong trigger warnings for: sexual assault, descriptions of murder, mental illnesses Have a safe and fun New Years, and be kind to yourselves in 2019!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHELLEY! This week, we do things a little different in celebration of when Shelley was violently and horribly welcomed into life. Instead of our usual stories, Shelley breaks down some facets of forensics to give context to lots of the jargon used in courts, cases, and articles, as well as to why sometimes judges and lawyers do not get it right. Oh, also, happy holidays! Trigger warnings for blood, gore, decomposition, suicide, and murder discussions. 

This episode got carried away from us... numerous times, I am so sorry oh my god This week, Shelley tells us about the secret catacombs lurking underneath the city of Kingston, Ontario, which is apparently the most haunted city in Canada? Mary tells us about an incredibly sad Christmas day murder-attempted suicide, as well as her frustrations with the judge complicit in this case. Major trigger warnings for murder, attempted suicide, domestic violence, and potential child sexual abuse.

[Horror flashbacks to grade 11 math] In this week's episode, Mary tells us about the Salem Cemetery, describing personal anecdotes she has heard from her (probably high) friends. Shelley talks to us about three unsolved murders that may be connected to one person... who committed suicide before any investigations could go on. Trigger warnings this episode for: rape, sexual assault, strangulation, murder.

In this episode, Shelley talks about the haunting of Lower Bay Station, and other ~mysterious and abandoned subway stations in Toronto (which...are only kind of mysterious and sometimes abandoned). Mary tells us about a wholesome family teatime that goes buckwild very quick. Lots of fun this episode. Possible trigger warnings includes mention of nudity and (accidental) drug use. Kind of??

All the -ings! This week, Mary tells us about the good ol' reliable ghosts that haunt The Jester's Court Restaurant in Port Perry, which is apparently like. The most flammable town on Earth. Shelley brings to us the harrowing (albeit hilarious) tale of the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist. One hell of a tale, eh? No trigger warnings this week! Who knew a day like this would ever come?

Noises! Sound effects!! In this week's episode, Shelley tells us about the awful and devastating Frank Slide, and its subsequent paranormal hauntings. Mary tells us about a horrific domestic abuse murder that happened right up the road from her. It's an otherwise decent area, we swear. Warnings this episode for discussions of domestic disputes, death, trauma, and possible abuse.

We make the English good. Join us this week as Mary describes the hauntings (and dilapidated remains) of Whitby Psychiatric Hospital, and Shelley tells us the unbelievable story of Anton Pilipa who went missing for 5 years. Content warning for discussions of mental health issues and schizophrenia.

Oh, the joys of role play. This week, Shelley tells us about the lore of the Nahanni National Park Reserve, rich with gold (maybe), beheadings, and strange murders. Mary tells us about 12-year-old Jasmine Richardson and her 23-year-old, no wait sorry 300-year-old werewolf boyfriend Jeremy Steinke and their horrific murders of Jasmine's family. Warnings of drug use, beheadings, stabbings, blood, and general violence this week.

Goblins and ghosts and ghouls, beware! Listen to this episode and you're in for a scare. Mary reads to us terrifying stories, while Shelley tells us true crime that's gory. Are you ready for a spooktacular delight? Then listen to this episode, and you won't sleep tonight!

Another frankensteined episode, this time messed up by Adobe. Fuck you, Adobe. This week, Shelley tells us about the legend of Diabolos and Reznikoff, stone masons whose fight over love in the halls of University College ended in tragedy, and then haunting. Mary talks about the long, unclear, and absolutely horrific murder of Baylee Wylie. Strong trigger warning for the second part, folks - there is torture, stabbing, and drug use discussed heavily.

Shelley spilled the beans about where our podcast name came from... Mary had no idea, did you? This week, Mary brings to you the mysterious supposed poltergeist doll activity in the home of Judy Ryan. Shelley tells us about two sisters who drown their mother and almost got away with it. Key word: almost. Trigger warnings this week include mention of alcoholism and descriptions of drowning.

😬 In this episode, Shelley tells us the story of Rose Latulipe and her (literal) dance with the Devil. Mary discusses the tragic 2014 Calgary stabbings, and the latest updates in the case. The second half of this episode talks about schizophrenia, general mental health issues, and physical violence.

Is anybody surprised at this point?

 This week, Mary talks about the (admittedly silly) supposed hauntings of the Oshawa Museum, and Shelley covers the abysmal negligence and misconduct of pathologist Charles Smith. There’s lots of talk of murder and sexual assault of children in this one, folks.

This week, we have two shorter stories... and a lot of unrelated babble (at the end! For once!). Shelley covers the mystery of Old Finch Road, and Mary talks about the unsolved murders of Susan Tice and Erin Gilmour. Some trigger warnings: alcohol consumption, child abuse, sexual assault, brutal murder, and sexual harassment.

Starting off this episode with about 20 minutes to talking shit, as per usual. We also very quickly, very concisely discuss Old Yellow Top, and awkwardly adorable-sounding cryptid of Ontario, and the abduction and murder of Cecilia Zhang. There is a trigger warning for the second half for a description of the abduction itself; Shelley lets you know exactly when this will happen in the podcast!

Get ready for another rambly episode (sorry not sorry), featuring a cautionary tale about late night subway rides. We also discuss the dark faerie tales of Bell Island and the horrific Shafia murders. Some content warning for discussion of "honour killings" and Islamophobia for the second half of the episode!

Another slightly sleepy episode this week! We discuss the Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital and its hauntings. We also sleepily rage about the murder of Barry and Honey Sherman. There's a slight trigger warning on the second case for discussions about the discovery of the bodies and the cause of death. Another trigger warning towards the end, where we discuss car accidents....for some reason. Wear your seatbelts, people!

This week, we call out Adobe for losing out entire hour-long episode and making us re-record 🙃 We also discuss the many sightings of the Lake Ontario Serpent, including a pretty genius hoax. And of course, Mary and Shelley get righteously angry about the "Scarborough Crossbow Murders". This is a particularly gruesome murder, so there is a trigger warning for descriptions of violence and gore.

Mary just turned 26! As promised, we're celebrating by telling our personal ghost stories. As it turns out, Mary's house is probably haunted AF and we're wondering if her house ghost(s) judge our super makeshift recording set up. Also, a special thank you to Mel for sharing her super scary experience with us!

TENTH EPISODE!!!!!!!! WE DID THE THING! Join us on today's super chill episode that was recorded on Mary's bed at midnight and we're both just about dead tired, whoops. Mary talks about the Falcon Lake UFO sighting while Shelley critiques the source author's purple prose. We also discuss the Order of the Solar Temple and the mass suicides (and homicides) that occurred in Canada and Europe. Some trigger warnings for the violent death of an infant in the second half of the episode, and general terrible culty shit.

This episode, we talk about a LOT of things...and also the hauntings of the Four Mile House in British Columbia and the tragic killing of Tim McLean. Just a content warning, the latter is a pretty gruesome case and there's talk of mental health and schizophrenia, so listener discretion is advised. Also shoutout to Mary's house ghost for not making any noise while we were recording.

Another Frankensteined episode, whoops! This week, we discuss the so-called possession and exorcism of Walter Zepeda, and the Butterbox Babies. Shelley drops some truth bombs about Chinese cuisine, and Mary is still sick (for the first half of the episode, anyway). Also, more tangents! Fun plane stories, this time.

In this episode, we talk about the Young Teazer, which is a ghost ship and not a rapper. We also go through the Salish Sea Feet, the phenomenon where people keep finding feet on the British Columbia and PNW coastline. As a bonus (well, not really, we just really love going on tangents), there's a spoopy story from Shelley's childhood! PS: so sorry for this Frankenstein (hah, get it?) of an episode, and the noise in the second half. The setup was not ideal 😬

This week, a kinda sick Mary brings you the Ghost Ship of Northumberland Strait, which apparently kind of looks like a bonfire on the ocean. The episode also covers the Belchers Islands massacre, in which one loser thinks he's Jesus and unfortunately gets a whole bunch of people killed, including children. (Also, the part at the very end is kinda wrong. Whoops, still figuring out distribution!)

In this episode, Canada Obscura covers the ghost story and murder of Mary Gallagher, a ~scandalous tale of jealous sex workers; a (probably) made-up good looking killer; and the best way to describe someone's husband. The episode also discusses the Toronto Baby Hospital Deaths, in which dozens of infants supposedly die from an overdose of heart medication.

The fourth episode of Canada Obscura brings you Project Magnet, a little piece of Canada's history with UFOs. We also get real forensics-y with the tragic abduction and murder of Christine Jessop. (We had pita and hummus, if anyone's wondering).