This Haunted Life
Episode 13: Krampus Is Coming
Hosted by Adam Berry
He sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake. And if you’ve been bad this year… he’s not bringing gifts.

In this special holiday episode of This Haunted Life, Adam Berry dives deep into the dark folklore of Krampus, the horned Christmas demon who punishes the naughty instead of rewarding the nice. From ancient Alpine traditions to modern American Krampus parades, this episode explores why we’re so fascinated by terrifying holiday figures—and what they say about balance, accountability, and fear.

The episode features an in-depth conversation with Kathy Kelly, owner of the Paranormal Museum in Asbury Park and co-owner of Sanctum Paranormal, who has helped revive authentic European Krampus traditions in the U.S. Adam also shares his own unforgettable experiences attending Krampuslauf events in Germany and Austria, where fire, folklore, and fear collide in the most exhilarating ways imaginable.

Because if the magic of the holidays is real… why aren’t the nightmares?

Episode Breakdown
Act I – Beware Krampusnacht
* The origins of Krampus and his role in European folklore
* Krampusnacht, Krampuslauf, and centuries-old winter traditions
* Why Christmas has always needed its villains
* How Krampus went from outlawed folklore to pop-culture icon

Act II – The Krampus Party to End All Parties
* Kathy Kelly on unleashing Krampus in Asbury Park
* The meaning of Krampus beyond “anti-Santa”
* Resistance, controversy, and misunderstood folklore
* Why Americans are drawn to darker, more authentic traditions

Act III – My Adventure into the Land of Krampus
* Adam’s journey through Germany and Austria during Krampus season
* Inside real Krampus runs: fire, bells, fear, and folklore
* Small village traditions vs. massive city runs
* The universal message of accountability and balance

Featured Guest
Kathy Kelly Owner, Paranormal Museum (Asbury Park) Co-owner, Sanctum Paranormal Co-host, Curious Explorers Podcast

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Production Credits:

Host/Producer/Writer: Adam Berry
Co-Producer/Music: Chad Rossi Provincetown Recording Studio
Writer and Co- Producer: Julie Tremaine
Artwork: Laura Lineberry