Astray

Gene Fleming and his pet goose Andy made headlines around the world. They brought out the best in the people of Hastings, Nebraska. But amid all this attention, Andy also brought out the worst. And three decades later, Andy's legacy is still reverberating around their hometown. Note: This episode includes the murder of a beloved goose. And don't forget to check out Dana's new book, The Arcane Arts. Out this week in bookstores everywhere! * Very Special Thanks to Jessica Korgie for sharing her family's story with us. Hosted by Dana Schwartz, Zaron Burnett, and Jason English Written by Sara Schleede and edited by Carmen Borca-Carrillo at Acast Produced by Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Josh Fisher Mixing and Mastering by Baheed Frazier Additional Editing by Mary Dooe Fact-Checking by Austin Thompson Original Music by Elise McCoy Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla Executive Producer is Jason English Listen to Very Special Episodes wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2026

In June 1970, Dock Ellis of the Pittsburgh Pirates somehow tossed a no-hitter while tripping on acid. The LSD stunt made him a legend, but it overshadowed a much deeper story: a man who spent the second half of his life searching for redemption, purpose, and a way to help others escape the same darkness that once enveloped him. * Today's episode was produced in partnership with School of Humans. For School of Humans, Producers are Emilia Brock and Edeliz Perez. Executive Producer is Virginia Prescott. Special thanks to American Public Media’s Weekend America, and to Todd Snider. - “Dock Ellis: An LSD No-No” from American Public Media   - “America’s Favorite Pastime” by Todd Snider Hosted by Zaron Burnett, Dana Schwartz, and Jason English Written by Zaron Burnett Story Editor is Virginia Prescott Senior Producer is Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Jesse Nighswonger Mixing and Mastering by Jesse Nighswonger Research and Fact-Checking by Austin Thompson and Zaron Burnett Original Music by Elise McCoy Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla Executive Producer is Jason English  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2026

In 1978, Soviet geologists flying over Siberia spotted something impossible: a family living in total isolation, untouched for decades by the modern world. But when outsiders finally reached their remote cabin, the family’s hidden world began to change forever. Special thanks to Rebecca E. Marshall for letting us share clips from her documentary, The Forest in Me. We also want to shout out the film's composer, Xylouris White. You can stream The Forest in Me right now on MUBI. Listen to Very Special Episodes wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes every Wednesday!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2026

This week's installment of Very Special Episodes is a tour of New York’s secret history with a very special guest! Greg Young of the beloved Bowery Boys podcast joins Dana Schwartz to prove the world is a very interesting place, if you just know where to look. There's hidden history in subway grates, SoHo stores, Central Park statues, and Hamilton lyrics.  * Listen to Very Special Episodes wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2026

In the 1960s, a newly independent Zambia entered the space race with a bold — and baffling — plan. Led by self-declared “Minister of Space” Edward Nkoloso, a team of would-be astronauts trained in oil drums, dreamed of Mars, and captured the world’s attention. To Western observers, it looked like a joke. But Zambia's space ambitions may have been a front for something far more earthly — and far more dangerous. * Hosted by Zaron Burnett, Dana Schwartz, and Jason English Written by Lucas Reilly Senior Producer is Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Jesse Nighswonger Mixing and Mastering by Josh Fisher Research and Fact-Checking by Austin Thompson and Lucas Reilly Original Music by Elise McCoy Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla Executive Producer is Jason English For School of Humans, Producers are Emilia Brock and Edeliz Perez. Executive Producer is Virginia Prescott. Thanks to Anthony West for his excellent voiceover work!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2026

In the winter of 1980, the world turned its eyes to Lake Placid, New York, host of the Winter Olympics. But behind the pageantry, another structure loomed in the Adirondack woods. Built to house 1,800 athletes, the Olympic Village looked less like a dormitory than a detention center — because that’s exactly what it was designed to become. * Hosted by Zaron Burnett, Dana Schwartz, and Jason English Written by Zaron Burnett Senior Producer is Josh Fisher Editing and Sound Design by Jesse Nighswonger Mixing and Mastering by Josh Fisher Original Music by Elise McCoy Show Logo by Lucy Quintanilla Executive Producer is Jason English For School of Humans, Producers are Emilia Brock and Edeliz Perez. Executive Producer is Virginia Prescott. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2026

In 1897, a Swedish engineer set out to reach the North Pole ... by balloon. With two companions, a crate of champagne, and the faith of a nation, he rose into the Arctic fog — and vanished. Decades later, their frozen journals and undeveloped film emerged from the ice, revealing the haunting truth behind one of exploration’s great mysteries. * On the Very Special Episodes podcast, Dana Schwartz tells one incredible story each week. Follow her down a different rabbit hole every Wednesday. New episodes starting February 4th! This episode is a production of iHeartPodcasts and School of Humans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2026

In 1983, a cherubic, homely doll triggered something close to national hysteria. Parents fought in store aisles. Shelves were stripped bare. Even the New York mafia found itself selling children’s toys.   Cabbage Patch Kids went from handmade curiosities to the most coveted object in America — igniting riots, corporate battles, and a moral panic that stretched from suburban malls to federal courtrooms. All in a single Christmas season.  And the frenzy didn’t end when the Kids disappeared from shelves. In an unexpected twist decades later, these dolls would get more care and attention than they ever had before. * Very special thanks to all our guests! You can hear more of Larry Mazza’s story in his book The Life, available on Amazon. Today's episode is a production of iHeartPodcasts and School of Humans.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 December 2025

In 1979, the world watched as NASA’s 77-ton space station made its fiery plunge back to Earth. When Skylab broke apart over a sleepy Australian town, the falling debris set off a global media frenzy. This is the story of the night the sky actually fell — and the teenager who became an improbable hero. Hi, Astray listeners! Check out this story from the Very Special Episodes podcast. You can listen to new episodes of VSE every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts.  * Today's episode is a production of iHeartPodcasts and School of Humans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2025

When Russia invaded Ukraine, hundreds of starving dogs were trapped inside the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. For years, Oregon-based veterinarian Dr. Jenn Betz had been their lifeline. Now, with Putin’s troops occupying the site, she had only one thought: How do I get back there? * Hi, Astray listeners! Check out this story from the Very Special Episodes podcast. You can listen to new episodes of VSE every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts.  Today's episode is a production of iHeartPodcasts and School of Humans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2025

The dangers of Datura revealed, and a different perspective on what it means to seek… and the cost for those of us who do.Support India during the pandemic by donating to the organizations listed below that were suggested by Astray producer, Ankita Anand. https://fundraisers.giveindia.org/projects/wastepickers-of-pune-call-for-support-in-the-devastating-times-of-covid19 https://www.gofundme.com/f/covid-aid-for-ranchi-india?member=10472615&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer https://www.donatekart.com/Hemkunt-Foundation/Give-Oxygen-Cylinders/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwvr6EBhDOARIsAPpqUPHbqctClydjRkIjvTnCA8ms7DZvq2OSxSDLBgq2VBFCLJcnxq0A9J8aAli1EALw_wcB https://www.khalsaaid.org/donate Guest Experts:Suzy Singh ~ Therapist, author and international speaker on karma and consciousnessAlberto Roman ~ Shaman // Contemporary Curandero Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders - Sound ProductionJason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2021

Charlie Marinelli’s story is not surrounded by theories. In a first hand interview, he provides answers about hitting a spiritual edge in India — a journey he barely survived. Charlie Marinelli: Found Show Notes: Charlie Marinelli ~ Contact Charlie at charliemarinelli@gmail.com.  Suzy Singh ~ Therapist, author and international speaker on karma and consciousness speaks about Black Magic. Referenced Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). A New York Times article about the ‘Psychedelic Revolution’ hitting psychiatry.    Astray Production Team: School of Humans // iHeartRadio Caroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, Producer Ankita Anand ~ Producer Gabbie Watts ~ Supervising Producer Tunewelders  Jason Shannon ~ Composer  Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer   Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2021

The spiritual edge Charlie Marinelli chased in India the summer of 2019 forced his parents on a desperate race against the clock to try to rescue him.Charlie Marinelli Show Notes:Matthew Remski ~ Author, Journalist and Host of the podcast Conspirituality Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders Jason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2021

In November 2018, Russell flew to Rishikesh seeking the “next level of spirituality,” but it’s a quest he would never return from.Russell in Rishikesh Show Notes:Unidentified Dead Bodies in India Database ~ The database where Russell’s body was found. Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders Jason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2021

The Beatles saw the holy city of Rishikesh as a fast track to spiritual awakening, guided by the renowned guru, Maharishi. We’ll experience their trip first hand through the stories of someone who was there…But, we’ll also explore other ways gurus use their influence, and it’s not always for good. Spiritual Bermuda Triangle Show Notes:Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati (Sadhviji) ~ Renowned spiritual leader and motivational speaker. She lives at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, India.  Check out her Ted Talk, ‘From Hollywood to Holy Woods.’Michael Yon ~ Combat correspondent Richard A. Cooke (aka: Bungalow Bill) ~ Professional photographer and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi devotee, along with the Beatles.Priyanka Dubey who reported on the predatory allegations against Asaram Bapu in this article for Caravan. Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders Jason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2021

Journalist Jonathan Spollen disappeared in Rishikesh, India in 2012, and though there’s still no evidence of his death, what was found where he went missing has raised many questions and keeps this cold case shrouded in mystery.Jonathan Spollen Show Notes:Jessica Ravitz ~ Freelance journalist and former senior writer for CNN Digital. Here is her CNN article that features Jonathan Spollen. Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati (Sadhviji) ~ Renowned spiritual leader and motivational speaker. She lives at Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, India. BBC article and video featuring police investigator, Kundan Negi. The article is titled, ‘I believe Jonathan is still alive.’Amanda Vicary ~ True Crime expert and Psychologist Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders Jason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2021

Did Justin Alexander Shetler - nomad, ninja and epic adventurer - meet his match in India when he disappeared in 2016? Or is a cryptic message in one of his last instagram posts proof that he doesn’t want to be found?Michael Yon, a former green beret and combat correspondent, who assisted in the investigation to find Justin, offers insight while sharing his own favorite pastime in India: Cannibal Hunting. Justin Shetler Alexander Show Notes:Justin Alexander Shetler’s Instagram and Blog: Adventures of Justin Harley Rustad’s article in ‘Outside Magazine.’ Rustad’s article was hugely helpful in writing this episode. He has a book about Justin Shetler Alexander coming out soon.  Michael Yon ~ Combat correspondent whose hobby is Aghori “cannibal” hunting.Yon’s Vice article about Gary Stevenson. Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders Jason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2021

Did Ryan Chambers vanish in India in 2005 due to the influence of the mysterious phenomena, India Syndrome? Or were other forces at play... India Syndrome is examined by a psychiatric expert in New Delhi, India who assesses whether the cryptic phenomena is a myth or legitimate riskRyan Chambers Show Notes:Dr. Harshit Salian ~ Psychiatrist in New Delhi, IndiaDr. Willoughby Britton ~ Assistant professor of psychiatry and human behavior at Brown University Link to First Do No Harm: Foundational Competencies for Working Skillfully with Meditation-Related Challenges.David Hammerbeck ~ Academic and AuthorRyan Chambers, Missing in India Facebook Page ~ Access to Jock Chambers information is listed here. Please contact him with any information you might have on Ryan’s disappearance. Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders - Sound ProductionJason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2021

“India Syndrome,” a psychosis said to effect Westerners seeking spiritual enlightenment in India, is identified as the cause behind a suicide and a disappearance of two Westerners drawn to India, and led astray there.India Syndrome Show Notes:Scott Carney ~ Investigative Journalist, New York Times Bestselling Author and AnthropologistJessica Ravitz ~ Freelance journalist and former senior writer for CNN Digital. Ryan Chambers, Missing in India Facebook Page ~ Access to Jock Chambers information is listed here. Please contact him with any information you might have on Ryan’s disappearance. Astray Production Team:School of Humans // iHeartRadioCaroline Slaughter ~ Host, Writer, ProducerAnkita Anand ~ ProducerGabbie Watts ~ Supervising ProducerTunewelders - Sound ProductionJason Shannon ~ Composer Harper Harris ~ Sound Design, Audio Mixer Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2021

How far would you go for enlightenment? Westerners have long been drawn to the spiritual mystique of India. While many find what they’re looking for and return home, some vanish without a trace or even end up dead. Astray investigates those who pay the ultimate cost in search of spiritual awakening. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2021