Mermaids: Science Meets Legend

On The Road Thoughts

In this special on-the-road episode of Get Weird, Brittany Barbieri shares her passion for cryptozoology, defending it as a legitimate scientific discipline rooted in zoology. Fresh from a cryptid and paranormal conference, she addresses online misinformation that dismisses the field as unscientific. Brittany highlights the pioneering work of biologist Ivan T. Sanderson, who coined the term cryptozoology and emphasized the importance of Indigenous knowledge in animal research. She advocates for restoring the field's academic credibility, emphasizing its potential contributions to conservation, biodiversity, and scientific discovery. Throughout the episode, Brittany encourages listeners to remain open-minded and question mainstream narratives about the natural world.

Things Beneath the Waves!

In this episode of Get Weird, Brittany Barbieri explores the famous 1848 HMS Daedalus sea monster sighting, in which trained British naval officers officially documented an enormous serpent-like creature. Brittany argues that dismissing such credible accounts may reflect scientific arrogance, pointing to the rediscovery of the coelacanth in 1938 as evidence that the ocean still holds many mysteries. She emphasizes that more than 70% of the ocean remains unexplored, leaving open the possibility that unknown creatures may exist. Brittany encourages listeners to stay curious, challenge assumptions, and respect both the natural world and the people who know it best.

Mermaids: Science Meets Legend

Brittany Barbieri explores the possibility that mermaids and aquatic humanoids may have roots in reality rather than existing purely in mythology. She references Cold War–era military diver encounters, cross-cultural legends, and evolutionary biology—including the controversial aquatic ape theory—to argue that the topic deserves serious consideration. Brittany also critiques how the word “mermaid” can shut down scientific discussion and reminds listeners that history has repeatedly proven skeptics wrong. Encouraging open-mindedness over rigid thinking, she invites listeners to question established narratives about the ocean’s unexplored depths and humanity’s evolutionary past.

The Unexplained History of Saint Denis

In this episode of Get Weird, Brittany Barbieri explores the eerie legend of Saint Denis, a Christian martyr in third-century Roman Gaul who, after being beheaded at Montmartre, allegedly picked up his severed head and walked six miles while preaching. She discusses the historical dangers faced by early Christians, the phenomenon of “cephalophores” (head-carrying saints), and similar legends surrounding other saints. Balancing skepticism with open-mindedness, Brittany reflects on these stories as powerful symbols of faith, resilience, and humanity’s enduring fascination with overcoming death.

The Night The Air Turned Against Us

Brittany Barbieri explores The Mad Gasser of Mattoon, a mysterious 1944 case in Mattoon, Illinois. Residents reported a strange, pleasant-smelling gas that caused paralysis, burning throats, and blurred vision, along with sightings of a shadowy figure outside their homes. Despite police investigations, no evidence was ever found. Brittany examines theories ranging from mass hysteria and industrial pollution to possible secret government chemical experiments linked to World War II. The case remains unsolved, leaving its true cause unknown. She encourages listeners to research primary sources and continue questioning the unexplained.