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Paranormia

Always True Crime

Are you ever awake in the cruellest hours of the night, when the world is quiet, but your mind isn’t?

That’s where Paranormia begins.

Hosted by journalist and parapsychologist Elizabeth McCafferty, Paranormia is a weekly storytelling podcast where true crime collides with the supernatural, the psychological, and the macabre. Each episode explores real cases where belief in something unseen becomes dangerous, cursed objects drive people to violence, psychic visions predict tragedy, cults where worship turns deadly, and hauntings blur into guilt, obsession, or faith.

Elizabeth blends rigorous research with cinematic storytelling to uncover what happens when reason falters and fear takes hold. Because these aren’t just ghost stories, they’re stories about us: about the human need to explain the inexplicable, to find meaning in the dark.

Paranormia: where paranoia meets the paranormal.

Subscribe, and stay awake with us.

If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com.

For more true crime that you'll be obsessed with head to AlwaysTrueCrime.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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22 episodes
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English

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S2 · E37
Tuesday · 27 min
Psychic Month: The Psychic and the Missing Nurse
It’s the last episode of Psychic Month on Paranormia, where Elizabeth has been joined by a range of guests exploring the fascinating and controversial world of psychics, mediums and unexplained experiences. In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Poppy Damon, co-host of Strangely, to explore the case of Etta Smith, a shipping clerk in Burbank who claimed to have a vision of a missing nurse’s body. Two days after Melanie Uribe disappeared on her way to work, Etta contacted police and described a canyon, a winding road and a white object at the end of a dirt path. When officers failed to act immediately, she went looking for herself, and found Melanie’s body exactly where she said it would be. How did she know where the body was? Elizabeth also shares one of her own strange premonitions, while Poppy recounts a mysterious encounter in the Joshua Tree desert. Warning: This episode discusses a real murder and contains references to sexual assault and violence. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E36
August 18 · 42 min
Psychic Month: The Ghosts of the Funeral Home
It’s Psychic Month on Paranormia, and throughout August Elizabeth will be joined by a range of guests to explore the fascinating and controversial world of psychics and mediums. What happens when the people who work closest to death start experiencing something they can’t explain? In this episode, Elizabeth chats to Professor Callum Cooper, a parapsychologist researching after-death communications and exceptional experiences in the funeral industry. From apparitions and unexplained noises to strange encounters involving the recently deceased, Callum shares some of the most intriguing cases he has come across, including the story of a funeral home apprentice who encountered a ghost in the middle of the night. Callum is currently researching experiences among people who work in the funeral industry. If you have worked in a funeral home, crematorium, as a funeral director, receptionist, hearse driver, pallbearer, florist or in another role connected to the industry, you can take part in his research. Take part in Callum’s funeral industry study: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/northampton/funeral-industry-anomalous-experiences?fbclid=IwY2xjawTMN4xleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBGUklZeURTTFBTazRKZlB0c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmijR9yTbkd848m5V8pw0Yv_W1mtzyd9thBbo1ddGM_alxFuPTvT0cKdJzez_aem_FW7_aeyoDhMOgCEU7y1LIA If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E35
August 11 · 49 min
Physic Month: The Last “Witch” of Britain
It’s Psychic Month on Paranormia, and throughout August Elizabeth will be joined by a range of guests to explore the fascinating and controversial world of psychics and mediums. Helen Duncan was a Scottish medium who became one of the most famous and controversial spiritualists of the 20th century. In 1941, she appeared to reveal the sinking of HMS Barham during a seance, despite the news being kept secret. Just months later, she was arrested and put on trial under the 1735 Witchcraft Act, eventually becoming known as Britain’s last witch. In this episode, Elizabeth chats to paranormal historian and writer Dr Kate Cherrell about Helen’s life, her claims of spirit communication and ectoplasm, the evidence for and against her abilities, and why the authorities were so determined to bring her down. Elizabeth also shares the bizarre story of the night a fox broke into her home… If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E34
August 4 · 50 min
Psychic Month: The Psychic Detective
It’s Psychic Month on Paranormia, and throughout August Elizabeth will be joined by a range of guests to explore the fascinating and controversial world of psychics. In 1983, 25 year old Jacqueline Poole was murdered in West London, just a few miles from where Elizabeth’s mum grew up. Nearly two decades later, the case was finally solved. In this episode, Elizabeth chats to psychic Christine Holohan, who claimed to have identified the killer and revealed details about Jacqui’s murder long before his arrest. Together, they explore Christine’s account, the police investigation, and the question of whether Jacqui really communicated from beyond the grave. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Support note: This episode discusses murder, sexual assault, violence, and the impact of violent crime. If this episode has affected you, support is available. UK: Victim Support - call 08 08 16 89 111 or visit victimsupport.org.uk ROI: Crime Victims Helpline - call 116 006 or visit crimevictimshelpline.ie Worldwide: Visit findahelpline.com for local support in your country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E33
July 28 · 21 min
Unsolved: The Mad Gasser of Mattoon
In 1944, the town of Mattoon, Illinois was gripped by fear as residents reported a series of bizarre nighttime attacks. Victims claimed they were overcome by a sweet-smelling gas that left them weak, paralysed, and unable to call for help, while witnesses spoke of a mysterious figure lurking outside bedroom windows. In this episode, Elizabeth explores the competing theories that continue to divide opinion surrounding the case. Elizabeth also shares the bizarre story of a charity shop discovery after stumbling across more than 40 cat ornaments from what appeared to be someone's entire collection... If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E32
July 21 · 36 min
Cursed Object: The Green Stone
In 1979, a group of paranormal investigators became convinced they had discovered a centuries-old secret. Guided by psychic visions and cryptic clues, they believed they had uncovered the hiding place of an ancient green gemstone said to possess extraordinary powers. In this episode, Elizabeth explores the mystery of the Green Stone, and a series of unexplained events that transformed a paranormal investigation into one of Britain’s strangest mysteries. Elizabeth also chats about a recent documentary that revisits one of the most shocking maritime disasters in modern history. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E31
July 14 · 25 min
Cult: The Manson Family
Listener discretion advised: This episode contains discussion of multiple murders, cult violence, manipulation, and references to graphic crime scenes that some listeners may find distressing. In the summer of 1969, a series of brutal murders shocked America and transformed the name Charles Manson into a byword for evil. But beyond the headlines lies a disturbing story of manipulation, blind devotion, and the dangerous power of belief. In this episode, Elizabeth explores how the Manson Family formed, the Tate-LaBianca murders, and the myths and mysteries that continue to surround one of history's most notorious cults. Elizabeth also chats about the upcoming World Toe Wrestling Championship, the unusual sport she co-owns. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E30
July 7 · 32 min
Urban Legend: The Sandown Clown
In 1973, two children exploring the marshes of Sandown on the Isle of Wight report a strange encounter. They hear a wailing sound that leads them to a seven foot figure in clown-like clothing, calling itself “All Colours Sam.” What follows is a brief, unsettling exchange, an invitation into a metal hut, and claims that there are others like it. In this episode, Elizabeth explores the folklore that has grown around the case, from possible explanations to later alleged encounters and why the story still refuses to fade. Elizabeth also chats about buying a new sewing machine for her other creative projects... If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E29
June 30 · 26 min
Possessed: The "Devil Made Me Do It" Trial
In 1981, 19 old Arne Johnson is arrested in Connecticut for the stabbing death of his landlord. At first, it looks like a straightforward murder case. Then Arne says he doesn’t remember it, and that something else was with him when it happened. Months earlier, an 11 year old boy named David Glatzel begins experiencing disturbing events at home. His family call in paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, and a priest is brought in to perform an exorcism. Those present later say something changed during that ritual, and that it set everything else in motion. By the time of the trial, Arne is claiming he wasn’t acting alone. In this episode, Elizabeth looks at the real case behind The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, where a murder trial becomes tangled up with claims of possession and belief. She also talks about a new documentary she’s working on, and buying far too many wedding dresses. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E28
June 23 · 40 min
Experiments: The Three Identical Triplets
In 1980, teenager Robert Shafran arrived for his first day at college and was greeted by complete strangers who seemed to know him. Within hours, he discovered he had an identical twin he never knew existed. Soon after, a third brother emerged. In this episode, Elizabeth explores the extraordinary story of three identical triplets separated at birth and reunited by chance at nineteen. What begins as an incredible reunion soon reveals something far darker… a secret psychological study that deliberately placed the brothers into different homes and observed them throughout their childhoods without ever telling them the truth. From their rise to national fame to the hidden experiment that shaped their lives, Elizabeth examines one of the most disturbing scandals in modern psychology. Elizabeth also talks about accidentally taking home a pre-war cast iron street sign she found walking around London… is it cursed? If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E27
June 16 · 26 min
Ghosts: The "Guardian Angel" of Flight 401
After Eastern Air Lines Flight 401 crashed in the Florida Everglades in 1972, some of the aircraft's undamaged equipment was salvaged and installed on other planes. Not long after, flight attendants and pilots began reporting sightings of two familiar faces… the deceased captain and flight engineer from the doomed flight. In this episode, Elizabeth looks into one of aviation's most enduring ghost stories. From reports of apparitions appearing in cockpits and galleys to chilling accounts of the spirits warning crews about potential faults and dangers, she explores how tragedy gave rise to a legend that many airline employees swore was true. Elizabeth also shares an update on a documentary she's currently working on, reflects on attending the True Crime Awards in London, and recommends the gripping podcast Strangely for your next listening obsession. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E26
June 9 · 23 min
Cursed Object: The Busby Stoop Inn chair
An ordinary wooden chair hanging in a museum in North Yorkshire is said to carry a deadly curse. In this episode, Elizabeth explores the legend of the Busby Stoop Chair, tracing its origins back to a brutal murder in 1702 and following the stories of those who allegedly paid the price for sitting in it. She uncovers how a real historical crime became a lasting piece of local legend and paranormal folklore. Elizabeth also shares a new horror book she’s picked up... If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E25
June 2 · 34 min
Spirits: The God Helmet
Elizabeth takes us into the remote mining country of northern Ontario, where a neuroscientist named Michael Persinger has spent decades trying to understand how the brain constructs some of our most powerful experiences. At the centre of his work is a modified motorcycle helmet, fitted with coils that deliver weak, patterned magnetic fields to the temporal lobes. The idea is unsettlingly simple… could the feeling of a presence in the room, even something interpreted as God, be triggered by subtle changes in brain activity? As one journalist sits inside Persinger’s lab and undergoes the experiment himself, the line between neuroscience and the supernatural begins to blur in unexpected ways. Plus Elizabeth shares a little about the release of her new book. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E24
May 26 · 28 min
Serial Killer: Monster of Florence
Elizabeth takes us to the wooded outskirts of Florence, where between 1968 and 1985 a killer known as the “Monster of Florence” stalked young couples parked in secluded cars. Sixteen people were murdered across eight attacks in rural lovers’ lanes. But as the investigation dragged on for decades, suspects multiplied, confessions unraveled, and the truth only became more elusive. So was this a single, methodical killer moving through the Tuscan darkness, or a case where fear and flawed policing helped create the monster? Plus Elizabeth shares a little about her recent trip to a spider convention! This story was provided by a Paranormia listener. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 · E23
May 19 · 26 min
Possessed: The Inukun Shooting
Paranormia is back for season two! In this episode Elizabeth takes us to the remote Alaskan village where former Marine and actor Teddy Kyle Smith claimed he was being followed through the wilderness by the Inukins, mysterious little people from Inuit folklore said to live beyond the edges of civilisation. Days later, two brothers on a hunting trip stumbled across Smith hiding in an isolated cabin deep in the tundra… only one of them would escape uninjured. So what really happened in the frozen wilderness outside Kiana? A psychological break shaped by isolation and folklore, or something far stranger? Plus, throughout season two, Elizabeth wants to share a bit more of her life outside of Paranormia… the strange stories, rabbit holes and weird moments that catch her attention during the week. From talks about alien encounters and the people who genuinely believe them, to internet deep dives sparked by a chaotic Dev Patel lookalike contest in London, this season also explores the strange things that stick with us, both on and off the podcast. If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 28 · 57 sec
An Update from Paranormia
Elizabeth checks in as Paranormia wraps its first season, with a quick look back at CrimeCon Birmingham and a glimpse into what’s coming next… From the science that might explain ghosts, including a device that can trigger the feeling of a presence in the room, to unsettling encounters linked to a real life plane crash where crew members reported sightings of those who didn’t survive… and a court case so strange it saw “demonic possession” used as a legal defence. Plus, a reminder that if you’ve got a story you think Elizabeth should dig into, she wants to hear from you: paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com Paranormia will be back in a couple of weeks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E22
April 21 · 28 min
Witches: Killing of Charles Walton
In February 1945 Charles Walton, a farm labourer in his seventies was found brutally murdered in a field in Warwickshire. The scene was shocking… his throat cut with his own tool and his body pinned to the ground with a pitchfork. As the investigation unfolded, rumours began to spread of witchcraft, ancient rituals, and something darker beneath the surface of rural life. Over time, the case became both an unsolved murder and legend. So what really happened to Charles Walton? And how did one killing turn into one of Britain’s most unsettling folklore mysteries? *** If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E21
April 15 · 27 min
Cursed Objects: The Crying Boy Painting
In the 1980s a kitsch mass-produced painting of a tearful child was linked to a spate of unexplained house fires across the UK in the 1980s. Firefighters noticed that when they attended house fires there was often one object left intact, the big blue eyes of a little crying boy, its edges singed, the frame sooty. But surviving seemingly countless fires. So how did the legend of the crying boy painting lead to a massive tabloid bonfire? Find out, on this episode of Paranormia. *** If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E20
April 7 · 25 min
Missing: The Piano Man
In 2005, on the Isle of Sheppey, a young man was found wandering near a beach soaked through and unable to explain who he was or where he came from. As weeks passed with no answers his case captured global attention, and with no identity to anchor the story, speculation began to take over. Known only as “The Piano Man,” he became the centre of a mystery shaped as much by imagination as by fact. This episode explores what really happened, and how a real person became a story the world couldn’t stop telling. *** If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E19
March 31 · 32 min
Serial Killer: The Zodiac
Between 1968 and 1969, a mysterious killer haunted Northern California, murdering at least five people and sending cryptic letters and ciphers to local newspapers. Calling himself the 'Zodiac,' he taunted police and the public, but his true identity has never been revealed. This episode explores the crimes, the chilling letters, and the lasting mystery of the Zodiac Killer. *** If you have a story where crime and the otherworldly intertwine, something strange, unexplained or just plain haunted, get in touch at paranormia@alwaystruecrime.com. Paranormia is an Audio Always production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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