Haunted Caves, UFO Nights, and the Occult Side of Science with Jessica Chobot

In this episode of Don’t Turn Around, I sit down with Jessica Chobot—writer, host, gamer, paranormal explorer, and creator of the Culture Shock podcast. You might know Jessica from IGN, Nerdist News, Bizarre States, or Expedition X. But tonight, we go deeper into her lifelong fascination with the strange and unexplained.

Jessica shares how childhood encounters with Unsolved Mysteries, mythology books, and even a haunted Toys “R” Us first sparked her curiosity about the paranormal. She recounts a chilling UFO sighting on a lonely Ohio highway—an experience that still shapes the way she sees the unknown. We talk about her unforgettable investigation inside Mammoth Cave, where a full-blown panic attack turned into a breakthrough in resilience and strength.

Our conversation explores the cycles of paranormal interest through history, the ways culture frames our beliefs, and how modern distractions keep us from noticing the extraordinary that’s all around us. Jessica also opens up about Culture Shock, her latest podcast, which digs into the occult roots of history and science—unearthing the hidden stories that connect creativity, mysticism, and discovery.

This episode is a mix of curiosity, fear, humor, and deep reflection on why we’re drawn to the mysteries we may never fully explain.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Jessica’s first sparks of paranormal interest—from Roanoke to haunted toy stores
• A late-night UFO sighting that defied explanation
• Inside Mammoth Cave: panic, resilience, and lessons in facing fear
• Paranormal cycles across history and how culture shapes belief
• The occult origins of science and why creativity matters to discovery
• Jessica’s new project, Culture Shock, and her vision for connecting weird history with our modern world

Connect with Jessica Chobot

🎧 Listen to Culture Shock wherever you get your podcasts

📺 Watch video episodes and get early access on Patreon: patreon.com/acultureshockpodcast

📸 Instagram: @jessica_chobot; @occultureshockpodcast

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