Short Stuff: "Peace" Pipes
The hosts discuss the misnomer of the term "peace pipe" and explain that many Native American cultures simply refer to them as pipes or ceremonial pipes used in a variety of solemn and communal contexts, not just peace treaties. They describe the geographic spread, cultural meanings, construction, and materials of these pipes, with special attention to sacred red pipestone from Pipestone National Monument and Lakota traditions around the Chinunpa. The episode closes by emphasizing that these practices are ongoing and remain sacred parts of contemporary Native cultures, as highlighted by a quote from Yankton Sioux tribal member Gabriel Drapeau.
Short Stuff: Curse of Broken Mirrors
The hosts explore the superstition that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck and trace its roots through ancient Greek and Roman beliefs about reflections and souls. They discuss how mirrors evolved from reflective water and polished metal to glass, why mirrors came to be associated with the soul, and where the "seven years" idea may have originated. The episode also covers various folk remedies for broken-mirror bad luck, and other mirror- and glass-related superstitions surrounding death, demons, and marriage rituals, tying it all to the Halloween season.
Short Stuff: China's Corpse Walkers
The hosts discuss a Chinese funerary custom from the Zhangji region of Hunan province in which Taoist priests would "walk" corpses back to their birthplace so the dead could be properly buried and avoid becoming restless, problematic spirits. They explain the beliefs behind corpse walking, how the rituals supposedly worked with black cats and magical reanimation, and then reveal the practical mechanics of how priests likely created the illusion using bamboo poles and group transport known as corpse herding. Along the way, Chuck shares a personal story about rescuing and nursing a kitten named Olivia back to health.