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Frights, terrors, haunts, and spoops; two Minnesota friends explore paranormal history in the Twin Cities and beyond. Starring Dan Laschansky, Madeline Ramirez, and a host of entities. New episodes every Wednesday. Available on all of your favorite podcasting platforms! Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thegrimcities/support
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Tomorrow is the most sacred of days for The Grim Cities: Halloween is FINALLY upon us! Madeline and Dan celebrate by reminiscing about their favorite Halloween traditions. They also read some harrowing tales and short stories that are sure to have your heart pounding and your palms sweating. But first, the two share some current events in their per…
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We start off today’s episode with a video that will make Madeline and Dan question reality. Did they really just see an inanimate object move on its own? Well, the whole country of Mexico seems to think it did! We then continue where we left off last week and discuss how the tradition of tomfoolery on Halloween stems from the old times of Celtic Dr…
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The Grim Cities is getting philosophical today, y’all! We begin by breaking down some common horror tropes and how they reflect the lived experiences of women in our society on a daily basis. All through the lens of a truly disturbing movie that leaves its viewers asking…what 👏🏻 did 👏🏻 I 👏🏻 just 👏🏻 see 👏🏻 ?! And if that subject matter is a bit to h…
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Today’s episode is all about spooky season events happening all over the Twin Cities and greater metro area. From classic haunted houses to frights on the main stage, there’s sure to be something to satiate everyone’s preferred mode of celebration. Madeline and Dan highlight a few of their most anticipated attractions of the season. And the fun doe…
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Madeline and Dan dig up the microphones and unleash a new season of The Grim Cities just in time for Spooky Season. After catching up on what occupied their time over the summer months, the two jump right into a collection of horror headlines. And those headlines range from a playful music video to the scariest book ever written. Madeline and Dan t…
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Today’s episode is a long time in the making and holds a special place in Dan’s heart. We’re diving deep into the town of Litchfield, MN where Dan’s family cabin is located. This area has a tumultuous history that ranges from wealthy recreation to conflict and death. We speak with a special guest, Dan’s aunt Jean, who shares her haunted experiences…
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Today we start off by talking about a new movie that seems to align a little too perfectly with one of Madeline’s interests… Let’s just say Dan is starting to not feel safe y’all! Also in this episode: Dead Man’s Hill? Dead Man’s Pond?! We really need to stop naming places this way if we’re trying to avoid active hauntings. C’mon people, let’s do b…
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Today we mark an incredibly special milestone for The Grim Cities. We’ve officially hit 50 episodes! 5-0…holy shit! 🤯 We are so incredibly grateful to all of our listeners, new and old, who have supported us along the way and who have motivated us to keep publishing content. We’ve been so well received and we could not be more thankful. 🥰 So to cel…
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Today’s episode starts off with another tale from Dan’s trip to Ireland years ago. He just doesn’t know how to let things go does he?! 🙄 And then Madeline and Dan analyze some of the worst - or best, depending on who you ask - April Fools’ Day pranks over the years. Get ready to laugh, cringe, and even scream. Some of these pranks go a wee bit too …
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There is SO much to unpack in today’s episode…things are crazy as hell right right off the bat when Madeline finds out that she sleeps in a VERY concerning and downright creepy manner. And things just unravel further from there, as Madeline and Dan incorrectly try to guess when an iconic Minnesota institution was erected. And of course, no one expe…
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As Madeline gears up for a family trip into the heart of Indiana, a large chunk of the continental US prepares for the upcoming solar eclipse. On April 8th, 2024 North America will become a prime viewing location for this incredible phenomenon. If you want to experience it in all its glory, draw a straight line from Mazatlán, Mexico to Montreal, Ca…
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As we get excited for the drunken debauchery of St. Paddy’s Day, Dan shares some fun memories from his time in Ireland. From ghost tours to a familial curse, his best judgement was not on display… Madeline then presents us with a compelling quiz to see just how well each of us would fare if we found ourselves in a real-life horror film. Best of all…
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Are you tired of horror films being snubbed for major categories at the Oscars? Or even worse, not being considered at all? So are we. This week we’re facing that problem head on by raising awareness of some of the most prolific horror movies of all time that were able to break through that Oscar curse and actually take home some shiny metal. Pick …
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Pick up some merch today: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-grim-cities/ In a continuation from last week’s episode, we delve further into the infamous life of H. H. Holmes and the plethora of crimes he committed. Polygamy, failure to pay his contractors, and bringing his victims across both state and country lines…he did it all! Plus, listen until…
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Pick up some merch today: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-grim-cities/ Where do serial killers come from, and what makes them different than the rest of us? Why do they gravitate toward violent behavior and vile thoughts? How do they justify their actions time and time again? In today’s episode Madeline and Dan dive into the early life of H. H. H…
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Pick up some merch today: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-grim-cities/ With Groundhog Day just recently passed, we’d like to dive further into the history of the mystical cryptid that has been predicting the longevity of our winters for decades. How did this groundhog get his powers, where did he come from, and why can he tell us with such certai…
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Pick up some merch today: https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-grim-cities/ Today is an incredibly special day! And why is it so special you ask? Because we are OFFICIALLY LAUNCHING OUR MERCH STORE!!! That’s right, you can finally get your hands on some sick-ass Grim Cities products and become the envy of all your friends. Show off your pride, share y…
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This week we’re celebrating our 40th episode! And what a better way to memorialize the occasion, than taking a good ol’ stroll down memory lane? Today we’re looking at some of our past episodes through the eyes of fellow locals who have shared their own experiences online as they relate to a few topics we’ve covered. The Grim Cities is over the hil…
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They say there is always something new to discover in your own backyard. That is certainly the case in today’s episode, as Madeline and Dan first learn about a small island seated in the Mississippi River on the outskirts of Cottage Grove. Once home to the Mdewakanton tribe, what sort of entities now lurk amongst the wooded landscape? Whoever they …
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Strap in y’all, ‘cause a lot is going down in today’s episode. We check in with one another to make sure we weathered Krampusnacht unscathed, Madeline gets a new calendar that will benefit ALL of us, and Dan tries to teach Madeline why her opinion about a certain heartthrob is just plain wrong. And that’s just the beginning…we’re diving back into t…
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Everyone wants a helpful assistant around the house to help with all the mundane chores, right? Lucky for you all, Madeline and Dan discuss some elf-like creatures from Nordic folklore that can take some stress off your plate. At least…most of the time. It’s a Christmas miracle! Or an omen… I guess you’ll have to listen and find out for yourself. B…
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In a first for The Grim Cities, Madeline and Dan are recording in front of a (very small) LIVE AUDIENCE! Who would have thought two other human beings would voluntarily subject themselves to the raw and unedited voices of your two notorious hosts. In today’s episode we listen to our first fan voicemail and follow-up on a haunted school in a small t…
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This episode is STACKED y’all! Madeline and Dan start off right away with not one, but FOUR horror headlines. 😱 They cover everything from unacceptable recording equipment standards (…terrifying) to a deck of cards that bring back bad childhood memories for Dan. And just when you think that much content would span an entire episode, we throw one of…
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This week, Madeline and Dan continue their long overdue read-through of listener emails…they’re getting through it slowly but surely, okay?! Furthermore, they dip their toes back into the chilling waters of true crime. Listen and find out if a spunky group of small town residents can overcome the infamous might of one of the Midwest’s greatest mobs…
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In today’s episode, Madeline and Dan take their first official field trip! To an actual physical location. They head to Duluth to tour an old ship and to experience all of the horrors trapped within its steel hull. So get ready to learn some local history while listening to Madeline and Dan scream and struggle for their lives… Be sure to follow us …
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Madeline and Dan are awful planners and have a really bad habit of doing things super last minute… So if you have similar tendencies then we’ve got some super helpful halloween tips for you this year. And if you’re on top of everything in your life, well…then what are you doing taking our advice? Jot down some notes in today’s episode, or better ye…
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AI has taken over nearly every corner of our daily lives. It can provide us with robust answers to our most specific questions, help us organize our daily lives, or even allow us to create stunning artwork without years of pursuing an art degree. But what happens when it goes rogue? Today we put on our cryptozoology gloves to uncover the creepy or…
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More UAPs are flying your way in this week’s episode. A continuation of last week’s discussion becomes more local. Madeline and Dan read some UFO reports from their home state of Minnesota. And let’s just say, some of them are…well...we’re not quite sure what cocktail of mind altering drugs some of these people are on. Get your binoculars ready, an…
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It's been a while since we've graced your listening holes, and for that we have a lot of ground to make up for. What better time to return than the first week of Spooky Szn?! 🎃👻🍂 And today really does get spooky, with real-life encounters from unidentified anomalous phenomena. Crazier yet? The United States military has now officially acknowledged …
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Spring is upon us, and that means many of you are freshening up your look for the good weather. May I suggest getting your haircut with a cryptid? This may also help you pick up a new hot lover as we travel to one of the world’s most notorious sex work hotspots. You guessed it…Amsterdam! This week we learn that a good time may not be the only thing…
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In this week’s episode there’s a hostile takeover of Demon Dookies. It’s scary, it’s unsettling, and there may be no way to stop them. So, before we all pass away from an unexpected and undignified death, listen and learn a bit more about your favorite podcast hosts. Otherwise…good luck out there… Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Fac…
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In this week’s episode, a ventriloquist doll is on hand to be your doting valentine for the month of February. That is, if you accept his proposal. Otherwise you could try your luck with the severed limb that emerged from a hot spring. And if neither of those options tickle your fancy: how about a ghost who follows you home? Yeah, shit gets real in…
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A toilet paper debate starts off this week’s episode, before Madeline and Dan pivot to a potentially gruesome rivalry to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But all of that pales in comparison to the horrors that await visitors in this southeastern Pennsylvania mansion. Luckily you’re able to buy a pint when you step through the doors, because you’ll ne…
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In today's episode we inquire about a very important, very illusive topic: ourselves! Madeline and Dan take turns answering pertinent questions that explore both their interests and their fears. From their first horror-related memory to scary theme music that really gets their skin crawling, this episode lays it all out on the table. Tune in to get…
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Welcome back everyone! Okay, so it's official; we got renewed for a second season...by ourselves! It's been a little while, but we're back behind the mic and we couldn't be more excited to be bringing you fresh n' freaky content for you to lose sleep over. Today we're visiting a tantalizingly tranquil resort on the shores of a northern Minnesota la…
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Hello listeners. Madeline and Dan are out this week researching some real spooky shit for y'all! As we work to pump out new episodes, we highly recommend you take some time to check out The Skylark Bell podcast. Go ahead, get immersed in a harrowing and curious tale centered in the spooky town Pocket. What secrets await your discovery? Be sure to f…
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We're putting our thinking caps on and learning some new words today. What was supposed to be a regular 'Word of the Month' segment has become more of a word of the season. BUT! The wait has been worth it because today we're learning a lot about reflective surfaces, calling the dead, and...scrotums? Well...just take a listen for yourself. Be sure t…
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Today we're headed to the bar to celebrate a momentous occasion: our podcast has officially reached the legal drinking age! 🍻That's right, no more kiddie cocktails and black x's on the hands, baby! In honor of this moment, we thought it would be perfect to highlight some of the Midwest's most haunted drinking establishments. From Anoka to Indianapo…
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We start this week off by finally revealing the voting results of the two-sentence horror story competition between Madeline and Dan. The outcome was shocking to say the least! Then we dive into some scary history from a building that was supposed to produce a simple household staple. Urban exploring and animal slaughter are just the start of the w…
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Today we take over a historic music venue with it's own...dark...history. Prince may not have been the only one to leave an impression on this concert hotspot. So listen closely, and you may just hear more behind the music! Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @TheGrimCities! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.…
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Welcome back everyone! We know a little bit of time has past since we were last together, but we're so excited to be back and to bring you more spooky-ass content. Haunted art museums, hide and seek with an apparition, and possible bus drivers that are actually...ghosts?! Oh yeah...we're back y'all! Dig in to another juicy episode now. Be sure to f…
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We’ve got a lot coming at you this week, y’all! From stenches that just won’t go away, to mummified remains, to murdered lovers, this episode has it all. And this time around, we’re looking for some help from our listeners; we officially share our two-sentence horror stories and open up voting to everyone. The stakes are high, and the power is in y…
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What does community mean to you? Is it a small town where everyone, and everything, is familiar? Perhaps it’s a medical facility where you receive needed care? Or maybe it is a fellow dormitory neighbor practicing witchcraft on the other side of your shared wall…wait WHAT?! Brush up on your spells and dive into today’s episode to learn more. If you…
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Today we surprise Dan with a haunted place of which he is at the epicenter. That's right, we're traveling to an eerie marshland that stretches across much of the UK. It's best to avoid this area, as many people who venture in never make it out... If you do dare to enter this murky quagmire, just be sure not to eat the mushrooms 'cause you're gonna …
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Get ready for a double dose of frights, because we’re bringing you a twofer today! That’s right, we’ll be covering TWO topics in today’s episode. Why? Because we love y’all and you deserve a little something extra. So if you’re headed up to the North Shore any time soon, you might want to be careful where you book your stay... Haunted hotel rooms a…
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I hope you don't have triskaidekaphobia, because today is our 13th episode! To mark the occasion, we are releasing an extra special episode and gracing your ears with something we haven't done before. We’ll discuss a local restaurant with a particularly dark past. And then…a surprise for all of our listeners! So, you don’t think the number 13 bring…
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Have you ever wondered what events led to the state of Minnesota's decision to abolish the death penalty? Or perhaps you're curious about the spirits that still linger to this day after their untimely death by execution. Well, the answers are a lot closer to home than you may realize. A statue at the entrance of the building in today's episode is s…
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We're back! Happy new year to all of you. We hope it was filled with fun, friends, family, and FRIGHTS! Dan is officially in Spain, and apparently so are the ghosts. Today we talk about a Spanish national museum that has a long and rich history...of hauntings. Is it true that three nuns are buried beneath the entrance to the building? Listen to fin…
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The holidays are a joyous time of year filled with family, food, and good feelings...or are they? If you thought getting coal in your stocking was bad, just imagine what the naughty kids in these winter legends have to deal with. Today we discuss holiday folklore from around the world. And let's just say it gets quite dark. So I hope you behaved th…
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Put on your flannel and get ready to chop some wood, because today we're taking you to a remote Minnesota town by the name of Bena. Here you'll find an iconic resort and general store with a cute name. What's not so cute, though? This area used to be home to a prisoner of war encampment, so you know there are some haunts to be had. We also watch to…
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