Episode 16: A Very Unhinged Christmas

Content Warning: This podcast often uses explicit language and covers sensitive or distressing topics. It is NSFW. Listener discretion is advised.

We never know where the Dirtstar may lead us and this time the road was long, winding and full of ghostly holiday chortles. In this episode of haunting Christmas history and tales, Ellsworth takes Big Spoon off the beaten path, over the embankment and into the Hamlet of Sidebar, where typical off-air conversations are fully welcome and here for all Dirtlings to enjoy!

Ellie dives into the history of Charles Dickens, the massively talented author whose body of work has inspired and entertained millions since the 1800’s. Each book has a deep underlying message for his readers, as Dickens attempts to teach others through lived experiences and a challenging upbringing what truly matters most (worker’s and children’s rights) especially in his timeless classic tale A Christmas Carol (1843).

Riley recounts the creepy tale of Geoffrey de Mandeville II and his hell hound who haunt their old stomping grounds in London every six years around Christmas and also covers The Mistletoe Bride, which is a cautionary tale of exactly what games should not be played while drunk at a lavish party. Speaking of drunk, Ellie and Riley send themselves into fits of laughter around every corner while enjoying some wine, so grab a glass of your favorite holiday spirits and enjoy this special sidebar-episode! 

Ellie ends the episode by sharing a few ways you can celebrate Yule with a Yule alter, and what the symbols of the season entail.

Check out episode sources, pictures, or any other goodies we may have found on our website.

This episode is sponsored by our generous Patrons: Tasha, BJ, Brian, Brent, Katrina and Carol. You Dirtlings warm our dark little hearts!

Special thanks to our show sponsor, The Phantom Moon Collection. Phantom Moon Collection is a small business jewelry brand started by our incredible friend, Natasha.  Each piece is handmade with love, inspired by her favorite books, horror stories, and her three kitties, Bellatrix, Pumpkin, and Eevee. Use code DIRTLINGS for 15% off your order!

Reminder: We're hobbyists, not experts. Please approach the content of this episode with that in mind, we encourage you to do your own research. Remember, facts and statistics can be misinterpreted or misused. If you're an expert on a topic we cover, we welcome additional information or corrections via our contact form on our website. Happy listening!