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Step into the mysterious world of Mesoamerican mythology with Dr. Kitsune, Odd Bob, and Saoirse as they explore two fascinating supernatural beings that have captivated imaginations for centuries.

The journey begins with the Mayan Alush (or Alux), territorial earth spirits no bigger than your knee. These protective beings guard homes and cornfields when properly respected—but turn mischievous when neglected. Through the tale of Mateo, a struggling farmer whose fortunes change dramatically after building a tiny stone house for these spirits, we discover the delicate balance between blessing and curse. When Mateo forgets the ancient warning to seal the dwelling after seven years, his once-helpful guardians begin braiding entire cornfields into impossible patterns and causing chaos throughout his property.

Then we dive into the terrifying world of the Aztec Ahuizotl, a fearsome aquatic predator with a hand-like appendage at the end of its tail. This cunning monster mimics the cries of a human baby to lure compassionate souls to the water's edge before dragging them underwater to harvest their eyes, teeth, and nails as offerings to Tlaloc, the rain deity. The heart-pounding story of Yolotli, a fisherman who narrowly escapes the creature's clutches, brings this legend vividly to life.

Between these captivating tales, our hosts share drinks—from jasmine pearl tea to Bloody Marys with locally sourced bacon—and plenty of irreverent banter that makes you feel like you're sitting right alongside them. The episode perfectly balances educational content about Indigenous mythology with the warm, conversational style that makes this podcast so engaging.

Whether you're fascinated by folklore, indigenous cultures, or just love a good supernatural tale told with wit and authenticity, this episode offers something special. Listen now and discover what ancient warnings we might still need to heed today—and remember, if you hear a baby crying near water, it might not be what it seems...

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What would you sacrifice for perfect artistic inspiration? The ancient Irish knew this dangerous bargain well through legends of the Lianhan Shee - a fairy muse who grants extraordinary creative vision while slowly draining your life force.

In this captivating episode, Saoirse weaves the haunting tale of Corvus O'Malley, a technically skilled but emotionally flat painter who encounters this supernatural muse in a storm-swept cave. His bargain transforms his art into something transcendent but at a devastating cost. This story resonates deeply with our hosts' discussion about creative struggles and the sometimes draining nature of artistic pursuits.

The supernatural theme continues when our guest Erica shares her chilling firsthand paranormal experiences. From mysterious moving pebbles to violently flapping plywood, her encounters in an old farmhouse grew increasingly intense during renovation - suggesting that disturbing these spaces awakened something long dormant. Most unsettling is her friend's encounter with a doppelgänger entity, described by Native American traditions as a shapeshifter that preys on those in weakened states.

Throughout these stories runs a common thread: our connection to the unseen world often strengthens in moments of vulnerability - during illness, emotional turmoil, or when physical boundaries are disrupted. Whether these experiences are supernatural or psychological in nature, they speak to the universal human experience of sensing something beyond the veil of ordinary reality.

Have you ever felt inspiration come from somewhere beyond yourself? Or sensed an unexplainable presence in an old building? Share your stories with us and subscribe for more explorations of the uncanny places where folklore, creativity, and the supernatural intersect.

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Official Website: www.uncannycoffeepodcast.com
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Step into the shadowy bamboo groves and misty valleys of Japanese folklore with the Uncanny Coffee Hour as we explore two fascinating supernatural entities—the haunting Nigawari and the mischievous Tanuki.

The Nigawari, a yokai rarely discussed in Western circles, preys on those who hide their true emotions behind false smiles. Our first tale follows young Hana as she discovers her sister falling under this spirit's influence, teaching us that sometimes the most uncanny horrors are the ones we create within ourselves by refusing to acknowledge our genuine feelings. The parallels to modern mental health discussions are striking—this centuries-old folklore anticipates our contemporary understanding of emotional authenticity and the dangers of toxic positivity.

From there, we lighten the mood with two delightful Tanuki stories. In the classic tale of Bunbuku Chagama, a shape-shifting raccoon dog becomes a teapot at a monastery, eventually revealing his true nature and remarkable performance skills. Our second Tanuki tale introduces Gengoro, a sake-loving trickster who, during a severe drought, reveals a secret spring to help a village brewer—proving that even the most mischievous creatures can show unexpected kindness.

Between sips of sake, earl gray tea, and hemp milk espresso, we weave these tales with thoughtful commentary on what they reveal about Japanese culture and universal human experiences. The mixture of humor, folklore, and philosophical musings creates a unique listening experience that will leave you seeing your teapot with new, slightly suspicious eyes.

Whether you're a folklore enthusiast, a lover of supernatural tales, or simply seeking stories with heart and humor, join us for an episode that reminds us how ancient wisdom continues to illuminate modern life in surprising ways. Subscribe now and remember—not everything that seems ordinary truly is.

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Contact us online:
Official Website: www.uncannycoffeepodcast.com
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Support the Show:
Buy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/uncannycoffee
(Dr. K already has tea)
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/UncannyCoffeeHour