So Random & Weird Podcast

Sheena Olszewski Sarah Leitham

Your weekly rabbit hole just got weirder. So Random and Weird serves up paranormal mysteries, true crime, history's dark corners, pop culture, current events, and the kind of curiosities that make you test your fireds at midnight--all through the lens of a couple of Xennials who remembers when the internet and life was feral and anything was possible.

  1. 4d ago

    The Campus Killer: Gainesville's Darkest Semester

    Fall 1990, University of Florida students returned to campus only to find their college town had become a hunting ground. 5 students over a few days, 3 previously in Shrevesport, LA.

    1h 14m

  2. Jun 8

    Digging Up the Dead: The Curious World of Death Photography

    Buckle up Buttercups, because today we're diving into a topic as old as time—death photography! Whether it's Victorian postmortems, colorful Mexican Dia de los Muertos traditions, or modern memorial photos, this episode explores how humans have always used pictures to hold on to loved ones... even after they've gone. Plus, a few creepy family snaps and a dash of cultural weirdness. Resources & Links:Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep — Organization providing compassionate remembrance photographyCoco (Movie) — Celebrating Día de los Muertos traditionsThe Order of the Good Death — Advocacy for death positivity and open conversations about mortalityCaitlin Doughty’s Website — Death educator and founder of The OrderA Brief History of Victorian Postmortem Photography — Deep dive into the Victorian death photo craze

    58 min

  3. Jun 1

    Good News? In THIS Economy?!

    In this lively episode, Sarah and Sheena dive into a whirlwind of feel-good stories from around the globe. From a tool-using cow in Austria to the resurgence of sea turtles in Florida, the hosts celebrate the quirky and uplifting news that often goes unnoticed. They also share heartwarming tales of human kindness, like a teacher crafting quilts for her students and a firefighter heroically saving a woman from a flooded car. With a sprinkle of humor and a dash of curiosity, this episode is a delightful reminder of the good happening in the world.

    1h 2m

  4. May 18

    Duende You Do or Duende You Don't

    Most people think the real paranormal episodes are in haunted houses or creepy forests. But what if a talking stove in 1934 Spain is a sign that the unknown is listening—and maybe even watching? When residents of Zaragoza start hearing maniacal laughter from their kitchen, and their stove begins answering questions with perfect accuracy, things get seriously weird. And trust us, it’s more than just a ghost story; it’s a deep dive into folklore, conspiracy, and a mystery that still refuses to be explained.In this episode, we unravel the bizarre case of El Duende de Zaragoza—Spain’s most famous goblin-like voice from a stove. We explore how a family’s quiet apartment in a volatile political climate turned into a two-month-long paranormal circus. You'll discover: how the voice knew police names and exact measurements, why authorities blamed a 16-year-old maid, and what the word “duende” really means—spoiler, it’s not just a fancy dance move. Plus, we venture into the possibility that this could have been a poltergeist, an alien experiment, or even a psychological mass hysteria. Or maybe, just maybe, the universe's most polite prankster.Why does any of this matter? Because in a world full of mysteries, some events defy logic and demand a human-sized dose of curiosity. The Zaragoza Goblin’s silence since 1934 leaves it an open secret—proof that sometimes, the strangest stories leave the biggest impressions. Whether you're into folklore, conspiracy, or just love a good ‘what the heck?’ story, this episode is a wild ride through one of history’s most curious ghost stories.Perfect for mystery buffs, horror enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys hinting that maybe, just maybe, we’re not alone—watching, listening, and waiting for us to ask the right questions. Ready to get weird? Hit play, and let’s peel back the curtain on Spain’s most playful paranormal enigma.

    1h 4m

  5. May 11

    Five People & An Eternal Coal Fire

    In this episode of "So Random and Weird Pod," hosts Sarah Leitham and Sheena Olszewski dive into the quirky and fascinating aspects of Pennsylvania.

    1h 6m

  6. May 4

    78 Ways To Be Told You're Doing Too Much

    Most people think tarot and oracle cards are just mystical fluff—until they find themselves asking the real questions: Who was the mysterious woman behind the first influential decks? And how did a Black woman in Victorian England revolutionize divination while getting paid nothing? Spoiler: Turns out, tarot has got more scandal, history, and rebellious spirit than you ever imagined.Sheena and Sarah unravel the wild, weird, and often hilarious saga of tarot—from Renaissance gambling dens to the avant-garde decks that now flood Instagram. You'll discover how a French con artist convinced everyone that tarot was an ancient Egyptian secret, how a Black artist’s genius was erased from history, and why Victorian mystics thought they were talking to the dead while actually just playing with cards. Plus, learn the subtle art of reading tarot for yourself—no certification needed, just your gut and a dash of intuition.We break down everything from the meaning of The Fool’s journey, to the different types of decks—tarot versus oracle—and why they’re more flexible and personal than ever. Curious about upside-down cards, spreads, or how to trust your instincts? This episode is perfect for beginners feeling overwhelmed, skeptics ready for a new perspective, or anyone who wants to add a little magic—and a lot of history—to their daily routine.And don’t worry—this isn’t just a history lecture; it’s a love letter to creative expression, intuition, and how you can use these tools to navigate life’s chaos. No secret handshakes, no gatekeeping—just real talk, laughs, and a reminder that magic lives where you make it.So whether you’re here to laugh, learn, or finally understand that your tarot deck isn’t “evil,” this is your must-listen episode. Your future might just look a little brighter—and a lot more fun—when you hold your cards with curiosity and a touch of rebellion.

    1h 10m

  7. Apr 27

    No Vancacy: The White House's Permanent Residents

    Most people wake up each day not knowing that the White House might be haunted by ghostly presidents, wild ghost cats, or even the ghost of Abraham Lincoln doing a little midnight ghosting. Want to hear about Lincoln’s ghost sightings, the mysterious 'thing' haunting the White House, or the legendary ghostly pets that probably have a foot fetish? Then buckle up—your spooky history adventure starts here.In this episode, Sarah and Sheena take you on a haunted tour of America’s most famous residence—covering ghostly encounters from Queen Wilhelmina fainting at Lincoln’s apparition to Churchill politely greeting Lincoln’s spirit in the buff. They break down eerie sightings, ghostly footsteps that echo in the dead of night, and legendary hauntings that make the house of secrets just a little more mysterious. You'll discover why Lincoln's ghost might be "haunting" for unfinished business and how even the White House's demon cat is rumored to grow to elephant size—talk about a Big Deal. You'll uncover super spooky stories of presidents, First Ladies, and even the White House pets that have allegedly experienced and witnessed the paranormal. Think you’ve heard of haunted castles? Nope—this is haunted politics at its finest. Essential listening if you’re into history, spirits, or just love a good ghost story with extra presidential flair. Whether you believe in ghosts or just enjoy good ol' spooky tales, this episode is packed with surprising facts, chilling sightings, and enough ghostly lore to keep you sleeping with the lights on.And guest credibility? Well, Sarah and Sheena are self-proclaimed ghost enthusiasts who have done deep dives into White House whispy visits—no political bias, just straight-up spectral stories. They've collected tales from former presidents' families, secret service accounts, and ghost-hunting apps—and now they're sharing it all with you.Perfect for history buffs, ghost adventurers, or anyone dreaming of visiting the White House without bumping into Abraham Lincoln’s ghost. Ready to get your spook on? Hit play—if you dare.

    1h 15m

  8. Apr 20

    Darwin Awards: The Criminal Edition

    In this episode of the "So Random and Weird Podcast," hosts Sheena Olszewski and Sarah Leitham explore the theme of "dumb criminals" with a mix of humor and insight. They share three bizarre stories

    1h 15m
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About

Your weekly rabbit hole just got weirder. So Random and Weird serves up paranormal mysteries, true crime, history's dark corners, pop culture, current events, and the kind of curiosities that make you test your fireds at midnight--all through the lens of a couple of Xennials who remembers when the internet and life was feral and anything was possible.

Information

  • Creator
    Sheena Olszewski Sarah Leitham
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Sheena Olszewski Sarah Leitham
  • Show Website
    So Random & Weird Podcast