Rainy Day Rabbit Holes: Pacific Northwest History and Humor

Shea Drury
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Rainy Day Rabbit Holes: Pacific Northwest History and Humor Podcast

Join hosts Shea and Jody on the Rainy Day Rabbit Holes Podcast for a whimsical journey through Pacific Northwest history. Explore weird tales, wacky legends, and hilarious anecdotes that define the region's charm. With infectious laughter and boundless silliness, each episode promises entertainment and a deeper appreciation for PNW's unique quirks! Tune in weekly for laughter and exploration! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

  1. 23 HR AGO

    46. Whispers in the Walls: The Dark History of Western State Hospital

    Whispers in the Walls: The Dark History of Western State Hospital 💬 Show Notes Western State Hospital: Madness, Mystery, and Misery Welcome to another spine-chilling episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, where we unravel the dark and eerie history of Western State Hospital in Washington. Join Shea and Jody as they explore the institution's haunted past, its infamous scandals, and the tragic tales of its most notorious patients. From shocking treatments to mysterious disappearances, this episode is a deep dive into one of the Pacific Northwest's most infamous landmarks. In this episode: - The founding and early days of Western State Hospital - Gruesome treatments and the dark side of mental health care - Scandals and mysteries: Disappearing patients and embezzlement - Famous patients: The tragic tales of Mary L. Leonard and Dr. William Chester Minor - The eerie Fort Steilacoom Cemetery and its forgotten souls - Ghost stories and paranormal activities reported at the hospital - Modern-day challenges and ongoing efforts to reform Western State Hospital Want ad-free episodes and bonus content? Join our Patreon for more exclusive perks! Visit www.rainydayrabbitholes.com to sign up. Subscribe: Don't forget to subscribe to Rainy Day Rabbit Holes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support. 00:00 " Western State Hospital is where some of Washington state's darkest stories unfolded 04:51 " Do it for science. Not the getting weed suppositories 05:12 " Western State Hospital opened its doors in 1871 before Washington became estate 07:59 " Western state hospital was built during a time when mental health care was experimental 11:16 " Western state Hospital became the largest mental institution in Washington state during 20th century 13:59 " If you would like to listen to our episodes ad free, consider joining Patreon 14:48 " Western State hospital made headlines in 1950s for embezzling funds 15:59 " Western State Hospital had some famous and infamous patients 20:33 " Actress Frances Farmer spent time at Western State Hospital 21:14 " Fort Steilacoom cemetery was used to bury patients at Winston State 26:14 " You have this gorgeous backyard full of plants. And now I'm kind of concerned that you actually do have a poison garden 27:10 " Only a fraction of unmarked graves in Fort Steilacoom cemetery are marked 30:04 " Laura Lemke started a mission to remark the graves with names and dates 32:46 " Grave concerns has completed most of their work at Western State Hospital 33:29 " This episode on western State hospital includes talk of ghosts 34:02 " We should head out for a night over at western State hospital 36:46 " The hospital's eerie atmosphere has given rise to countless ghost stories and legends 39:25 " Western State Hospital has struggled to shake off its troubled past 44:15 " Western state hospital remains a symbol of ongoing struggles within mental health care system 46:07 " There is so much more to tell about Western State hospital Show notes created by https://headliner.app --- Want more? Join our Patreon for ad-free episodes a day early and get access to bonus content! Links can be found on our website at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com.

    53 min

  2. 18 SEPT

    45. Hollywood's Lost Star: The Dark Descent of Frances Farmer

    In this episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we dive deep into the turbulent life of Frances Farmer, a rising star of 1930s Hollywood who captured the spotlight with her remarkable talent and beauty. But behind the glamour was a woman tormented by personal struggles and unjust treatment that led to her tragic incarceration at Western State Hospital in Washington.We're joined by special guests Laura and Stephen from the Midday Musings podcast to discuss Frances Farmer’s life, the haunting legacy she left behind, and her influence on Kurt Cobain’s music. Together, we’ll explore how her story of fame, rebellion, and mistreatment became a symbol of the dark side of Hollywood and mental health treatment.Discover the dark and untold history of mental health treatment in mid-century America, Frances’s rebellion against the Hollywood machine, and how her legacy lives on in music and pop culture. Was she truly misunderstood, or was she a victim of the system?Tune in to hear her remarkable yet tragic story, and see how one woman's struggles echoed through generations.In this episode:The rise and fall of Frances Farmer: from Hollywood starlet to Western State HospitalThe truth behind the rumors and the real-life horrors she facedHow her life and legacy inspired Kurt Cobain and Nirvana's musicThe shocking history of mental health treatment in the mid-20th centuryInsights from our special guests Laura and Stephen from Midday MusingsListen to Midday Musings: Spotify | Apple PodcastsGet More Content: For ad-free episodes and bonus content, become a Patreon member! Visit www.rainydayrabbitholes.com to find the link and explore exclusive perks.Subscribe: Don't forget to subscribe to Rainy Day Rabbit Holes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    38 min

  3. 11 SEPT

    44. Do The Puyallup: That Time My Mom Gave CPR To A Chicken

    This week on Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we're taking you back to the iconic Puyallup Fair with a story that's equal parts hilarious and heroic! Get ready to hear how Shea's mom, Sherry, became a barnyard legend after saving a kid's chicken from the brink of disaster. Was it fate? Luck? Or just good old-fashioned CPR? Tune in to find out the mysterious details of this unforgettable fairground adventure. But that's not all! We're joined by Laura and Stephen from the Midday Musings Podcast, where they delve into all things pop culture, nostalgia, and the oddities of everyday life with a dash of humor and curiosity. You won't want to miss their take on this bizarre barnyard incident. Check out Laura & Stephen three days a week! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midday-musings/id1715523597 For more behind-the-scenes fun, ad-free episodes, and exclusive content, join us on Patreon and support the show!Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    29 min

  4. 4 SEPT

    43. From Yakima to Yamashita: The Bread Tab Conspiracy

    In this eye-opening episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we uncover the startling connections between a small plastic bread tab and a global conspiracy that reaches from Yakima, Washington, to the heart of far-right extremism, and even the legendary treasure of Yamashita's gold. We delve into the surprising story of the Kwik Lok company, founded in Yakima, and its ties to far-right movements. But that's just the beginning. Join us as we explore how this humble bread tab links to a global network of intrigue involving the fallen dictator Ferdinand Marcos, the CIA, and a treasure hunt that has spanned decades. And don’t miss the shocking twist at the end of the episode—this is one rabbit hole you’ll definitely want to go down. Listen now and prepare to be amazed! Want ad-free episodes? Join our Patreon for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, and more! You can find links to the Patreon, our social media, and all of our episodes at our website: www.rainydayrabbitholes.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    50 min

  5. 28 AUG

    42. Tacoma's Forgotten Legacy: The Blackwells with Pretty Gritty Tours

    🎙️Tacoma's Forgotten Legacy: The Blackwells with Pretty Gritty Tours founder Chris Staudinger. In this episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes, we're joined by Chris Staudinger, the passionate founder of Pretty Gritty Tours, to dive deep into the rich history of Tacoma, Washington. Chris introduces us to the Blackwell family, one of the most significant and influential families that helped shape Tacoma’s destiny in the late 1800s. Despite their major contributions to the city, the Blackwells have somehow slipped through the cracks of local history. Their iconic mansion still stands on Broadway Street as a testament to their great charity, yet their story remains largely untold—until now. Chris shares the inspiring tale of William and Alice Blackwell, whose altruism and community efforts laid the foundation for Tacoma's future. Plus, get an inside look at the founding of Pretty Gritty Tours, and learn how you can explore more of Tacoma’s hidden history at prettygrittytours.com. Join us as we uncover the stories that make Tacoma more than just a place—it’s a community woven with history and heart. If you want 10% off a tour with Pretty Gritty Tours, just go to our website at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com and enter your email at the top! Please go to www.prettygrittytours.com to book an awesome tour today!  Also, Shea is now a tour guide for Pretty Gritty Tours! You can take a tour with her at Stadium High School in Tacoma.  Want to listen ad free? Join our Patreon! patreon.com/RainyDayRabbitHolesPodcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    50 min

  6. 21 AUG

    Paranormal Encounters in California's Redwoods with PNW Haunts & Homicides!

    Shea & Jody are off enjoying the last hurrah of summer, so we present a spooky episode from one of our Pod-friends: PNW Haunts & Homicides! This week, we're heading to California - where they know how to party… with ghosts!   Join us as we explore eerie and fascinating sites in the vast expanse of the Redwood Forests. But some of the “ghosts” here might not be what you expect. Not to mention this is a hot spot for Bigfoot sightings!  Don't miss us at True Crime Fest Northwest 8/30 - 9/1! Use Promo Code HAUNTS10 for 10% off your ticket!   This week we introduced you to our friends from Twisted & Uncorked, A TRULY TWISTED PODCAST! Visit our website! Find us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Patreon, & more! If you have any true crime, paranormal, or witchy stories you'd like to share with us & possibly have them read (out loud) on an episode, email us at pnwhauntsandhomicides@gmail.com or use this link. There are so many ways that you can support the show: BuyMeACoffee, Spreaker, or by leaving a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. Sources. Shea & Jody will be back next week with another fascinating tale from Pacific Northwest History! If you would like to support us as independent creator, please join our Patreon! There you can get ad-free episodes, bonus content, shout outs, and more! patreon.com/RainyDayRabbitHolesPodcast --

    1h 0m

  7. 14 AUG

    41. Legitimate Pete: Tacoma's Bootlegger with Brad Holden

    Join us for a special Tacoma Beer Week episode of Rainy Day Rabbit Holes as we dive into the intriguing world of Tacoma’s infamous bootlegger, Pete Marinoff. We sit down with historian and author Brad Holden, known for his captivating accounts of Pacific Northwest history, to explore the life and legacy of Marinoff during the Prohibition era. Discover how this notorious figure left an indelible mark on Tacoma’s history, the underground world of bootlegging, and the local culture of the time. Whether you're a history buff, a beer enthusiast, or just curious about Tacoma’s colorful past, this episode is a must-listen! Resources & Links: Brad Holden's Website: www.bradholden.orgTacoma Beer Week: www.tacomabeerweek.comConnect With Us: www.rainydayrabbitholes.comhttps://www.facebook.com/RainyDayRabbitHolesPodcast/ Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Shea will be participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer's®! Join the Limitless Studio Team or donate! https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=18005&pg=team&team_id=896308 Shea's Tyrannical Takeover! Ever wondered what it would be like to rule your own island? Shea recently joined the Tyrant In Training Podcast to explore her hilariously wild vision! As the newly crowned High Priestess of Felis Supernus Island, Shea kicked all the rich hippies off Vashon Island and transformed it into a paradise for cat worshippers. Her cult reveres the cat god Bastet, and the island is now home to thousands of adored felines. But that's not all! With an army of loyal orcas by her side, Shea has her sights set on conquering a region of the U.S. – all in the name of Felis Supernus, with zero repercussions. On her island, Shea has created a thriving industry of clothing made from cat hair, offering the ultimate in feline fashion. But beware: in her quest for efficient production, she may have done away with pesky child labor laws! Listen in for an unhinged ride filled with laughter as Shea shares her tyrannical plans, including her unique official title and island bans! Check out the episode for a dose of comedy and creativity: Tyrant In Training Podcast: Shea Drury - Rainy Day Rabbit Holes and Cloudy Night Cat Worshipper Don't miss it! https://tyrant-in-training.podcastpage.io/.../shea-drury...https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561701940656 @tyrantintraining Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    51 min

  8. 7 AUG

    40. A Bear Walks Into a Bar: Tacoma's Legendary Jack the Bear

    Step into a Tacoma bar with Jack the Bear, the beer-drinking, 800-pound celebrity of the 1800s, whose larger-than-life story sets the stage for a crucial message. This episode journeys from Jack's amusing antics to the founding of the Tacoma Humane Society and its current, urgent crisis. Today, the Society faces an overwhelming influx of cats, stretching its resources to the breaking point. By exploring Tacoma's unique animal welfare history, we aim to spotlight the critical work of the Tacoma Humane Society and rally our community to action. Listen, learn, and discover how you can make a difference through donations, fostering, or volunteering. Join us in turning this tale of a legendary bear into tangible support for animals in need right now. More at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com https://www.thehumanesociety.org/ways-to-give/ Shea will be participating in the Seattle Walk To End Alzheimer's. Will you help? https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=18005&pg=team&team_id=896308 Show Notes: • Introduction to Jack the Bear • The Founding of Tacoma Humane Society (1888) • Jack's impact on Tacoma's animal welfare awareness • Evolution of the Tacoma Humane Society (1888-present) • Current Crisis at Tacoma Humane Society • How listeners can help • Reflecting on Tacoma's unique animal welfare journey • Resources for more information on Tacoma Humane Society and its programs Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

    23 min
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Join hosts Shea and Jody on the Rainy Day Rabbit Holes Podcast for a whimsical journey through Pacific Northwest history. Explore weird tales, wacky legends, and hilarious anecdotes that define the region's charm. With infectious laughter and boundless silliness, each episode promises entertainment and a deeper appreciation for PNW's unique quirks! Tune in weekly for laughter and exploration! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rainy-day-rabbit-holes-pacific-northwest-history-and-humor--6271663/support.

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