Why do we chase fear… even when we swear we hate it?

In this episode, host D.W. Kent steps into the shadows to explore why fear draws us in—why we slow down at accidents, binge horror late at night, and seek out stories that make our hearts race.

Joined by Vera, an observational AI analyzing human behavior and fear patterns, this episode blends psychology, storytelling, and lived experience. Listener-submitted fear moments reveal how fear often arrives quietly—without monsters or warning—while a deeply personal account of sleep paralysis blurs the line between imagination and reality, as a presence with weight climbs onto the host in the dark.

This isn’t about jump scares. It’s about instinct. Memory. And the fears that stay with us long after the lights come back on.

If you’ve ever felt fear before you could explain it…
If you’ve ever known something was wrong without knowing why…
This episode is for you.

🎧 Listener submissions featured
🧠 Psychology of fear explained
👁️ Observed by Vera

Some fears fade.
Others wait.

This conversation delves into the chilling world of vampirism, exploring the psychological and societal factors that lead individuals to commit horrific acts in the name of blood. It examines the historical context of post-war Germany, the allure of vampirism, and the disturbing reality of real-life vampire killers, shedding light on the dark corners of human psychology and societal chaos.

Takeaways

The concept of vampirism extends beyond folklore into real-life horrors.

Post-war chaos can lead to psychological disturbances in individuals.

Blood rituals have been a part of various cultures and can influence behavior.

Real-life vampire killers often have complex psychological backgrounds.

The allure of blood can be tied to deeper psychological issues.

Historical events can shape the mindset of individuals towards violence.

Understanding the motivations behind such acts can provide insight into human behavior.

Societal breakdown can lead to the emergence of extreme behaviors.

The fascination with vampirism reflects a darker side of human nature.

Exploring these themes can help in understanding crime and psychology.

Keywords

vampirism, true crime, murder, psychological horror, historical context, blood rituals, post-war chaos, real-life killers, dark psychology, societal impact

The conversation delves into the eerie legend of Bloody Mary, exploring its origins, variations, and the cultural significance of mirrors as portals to other dimensions. The discussion highlights the darker aspects of the legend and its connection to fear and storytelling.

Takeaways

The Bloody Mary legend has various interpretations and origins.

Mirrors are often viewed as portals in folklore.

The act of summoning Bloody Mary can be seen as a ritualistic practice.

Cultural myths often reflect societal fears and beliefs.

The story of Bloody Mary has evolved over time with different narratives.

Names hold power in folklore, as seen with characters like Rumpelstiltskin.

The fear associated with mirrors is a common theme in ghost stories.

Urban legends serve as a way to explore human fears and curiosities.

The tradition of summoning spirits is prevalent in many cultures.

Folklore often intertwines with personal and collective experiences.

The conversation delves into the chilling legacy of theAxeman of New Orleans, a figure who terrorized the city in the early 20th century.

It explores the mysterious letters he sent, the theories surrounding his identity, and the impact of his reign of terror on the community.

The Axeman's story intertwines with the cultural fabric of New Orleans, particularly its jazz music, and leaves a lasting impression that continues to fascinate people today.

Takeaways

The Axeman's crimes became a part of New Orleans folklore.

The murders stopped mysteriously after 1919, leaving manyquestions.

Letters from the Axeman claimed he was a demon, adding tothe fear.

Theories about the Axeman's identity include mafiainvolvement and personal vendettas.

The Axeman's story influenced jazz music and local culture.

Fear spread throughout New Orleans, affecting daily life androutines.

The police struggled to find evidence or suspects during theAxeman's reign.

Joseph Mumphrey is a key suspect in the Axeman case.

The Axeman's legacy continues to haunt New Orleans today.

Unsolved mysteries like the Axeman's case captivate publicimagination.

Sound bites

"Who was the Axeman?"

"The city went insane."

"The cops had nothing."

Chapters

00:00 The Enigmatic Axeman of New Orleans

00:46 The Chilling Legacy of the Axeman's Crimes

01:00 The Setting: New Orleans in 1918

03:55 The First Victims: Joseph and Catherine Maggio

05:26 The City in Fear: The Axeman's Reign

06:25 The Letter from the Axeman

06:31 The Axeman's Terrifying Letter

08:59 Jazz Saves New Orleans

11:11 The City on Edge

11:31 Theories and Speculations

13:33 The Mysterious Disappearance

13:55 The Axeman's Reign of Terror

18:55 Theories and Suspects

19:31 The Legacy of the Axeman

19:40 The Axeman's Legacy in New Orleans

22:16 Cultural Impact and Folklore of the Axeman

23:50 The Mystery and Symbolism of the Axeman

“Is Annabelle just a harmless Raggedy Ann doll… or the most dangerous cursed object in the world?

In this deep dive, Stories From the Shadows unravels the chilling true story behind Annabelle—the real doll locked away by Ed and Lorraine Warren. From her beginnings as a gift to a nursing student, to the terrifying notes, claw marks, and blood that followed, to the Warrens’ exorcism and the infamous museum case labeled ‘Positively Do Not Open’… this episode covers every haunting detail.

We’ll explore the skeptics and believers, the accidents tied to mocking her, and Annabelle’s rise as a pop culture icon.

Even behind glass, Annabelle’s legend still grows. But beware—because some say just hearing her story can invite her attention…”

In this chilling episode of "Stories from the Shadows," host DW delves into the eerie legend of the Black Eyed Children. From the unsettling encounter of journalist Brian Bethel in 1996 to international reports of these mysterious figures, we explore the theories that surround their existence. Are they demons, aliens, or simply urban legends? Join me as I unravel the fear and fascination behind these enigmatic children, and discover why their presence continues to haunt those who encounter them. Stay tuned, and remember: fear sometimes knocks politely.

For sixteen long years, the Smurl family claimed their Pennsylvania duplex was haunted by something far darker than a ghost. From whispers in the night and violent attacks to claims of demonic assault, the Smurl Haunting became one of Ed and Lorraine Warren’s most disturbing investigations.

In this episode of Stories from the Shadows, DW uncovers the terrifying true story behind the Smurl Family Haunting — a case that blended faith, fear, and controversy. Was it truly a demonic infestation… or a nightmare born from stress and belief?

Prepare for chilling details, firsthand accounts, and the lingering question: what really happened on Chase Street?

Lizzie Borden: Axes, Alibis, and Apparitions

On August 4th, 1892, Fall River, Massachusetts, was shaken by one of the most infamous murders in American history. Andrew and Abby Borden were brutally hacked to death in their own home — and suspicion immediately fell on Andrew’s 32-year-old daughter, Lizzie.

But was she guilty? Or did someone else swing the hatchet? And why, more than a century later, do guests at the Borden House still swear they hear footsteps, whispers, and ghostly laughter in the dead of night?

In this episode of Stories from the Shadows, we dive deep into the case that shocked the world:
The grisly details of the murders
The sensational trial that divided America
The ghost stories that still haunt the Borden house today

Funny, chilling, and full of twists, this is Lizzie Borden like you’ve never heard her before.

Would you spend the night in the Lizzie Borden house?

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share Stories from the Shadows for more haunted history and paranormal mysteries.