It’s finally here--my third horror novel, THE ROTTING ROOM, follows Sister Rafaela, a newcomer to an isolated convent looking to escape her horrific past. She quickly comes to realize that the Sisters of Divine Innocence have their own sinister secrets, along with some disturbing burial practices. She must race to discover if the convent is home to…

If you’re into Gothic vibes, body horror, and creepy nuns, then you’re ready to enter…. THE ROTTING ROOM. My third novel, THE ROTTING ROOM, will publish on 4/23. Season 7 of Horror Humor Hunger will be chock-full of incredible guests discussing everything from religious fanaticism to screenwriting to recipe development. Trust me, this season has so…

Celebrate 1000 books sold with me by enjoying this season’s featured recipe, the Vulgar Alligator cocktail! Recipe: The Vulgar Alligator 1.5 oz Blanco tequila 1 oz Cointreau 0.5 oz Amaretto 0.5 oz Midori 1 oz fresh lime juice You can check out A COLD NIGHT FOR ALLIGATORS and MUCH TOO VULGAR anywhere books are sold: https://www.amazon.com/Much-Too-V…

Besides authors and readers, there’s a very important cornerstone of the book world: booksellers! In this episode, I’m joined by the founder of High Strangeness Books, Jessica Ennenbach. High Strangeness is an e-commerce online bookstore dedicated to horror and dark romance that offers curated monthly book boxes (which sound so insanely awesome). F…

Mona Kabbani is a powerhouse in the indie horror world, with several acclaimed novellas and novels under her belt (The Bell Chime, Vanilla, For You, The Color of Blood) and more on the way. She’s also a strong voice for horror scholarship, consistently delving into what horror means, what it can do for us, and why it matters. Join us as for a fasci…

Aaaaaaand we're back, after a brief holiday hiatus! Let's start the new year off right with a discussion of a very disturbed individual 😈 My newest horror novel, Much Too Vulgar, is about a disturbed pre-med student named Keely who will do anything she can to get into med school… even if it means eliminating her competition. Join me and clinical ps…

Today, I’m joined by writer and producer Barry Levy, whose most recent project, Me, is out now on Apple TV +. His big break came from his original screenplay Vantage Point, and he has since worked with Steven Spielberg and Tom Clancy. In this episode, Barry gives us a behind-the-scenes view of filmmaking as we talk about book-to-big screen adaptati…

I don’t cry often when I read books--especially horror--but IN THE TALL TREES by Angel Van Atta had me sobbing and gasping for air. In this episode, I’m lucky enough to be joined by Angel herself. In addition to being a super talented writer, she’s a wonderful human being. Join us as we discuss writing trauma and grief, horror as catharsis, and wha…

When you’re walking around in nature, you’re probably mostly worried about alligators, bobcats, and bears--but you need to add a new host of fears to that list. Plants like poison ivy, oleander, and hemlock can be irritating at best and downright deadly at worst. Join naturalist Shannon Matzke and me as we discuss some of the most wicked plants ima…

Being a doctor is no joke… but neither is the journey to get there. Between pre-med weeder courses, medical school competition, and the stress of saving lives, medical careers can be cutthroat--pun intended. My fantastic friend and brilliant general surgeon Dr. Abigail Teitelbaum joins us today to talk about her experiences in the medical field and…

Have you ever been absolutely SHOOK by something you’ve experienced? I certainly have--from haunted hotels to ghost-ridden mansions to spooky underground tunnels, I’ve done my fair share of looking for the unexplained. In this episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Amanda of the SHOOK Podcast, where she and cohost Sannah discuss all things paranorma…

I'm thrilled to have Amanda from the SHOOK Podcast as a guest on next week's episode! If you haven't yet listened to SHOOK, you should absolutely go check that out right now!! Listen to SHOOK: https://www.shookpodcast.com/listen.html Follow SHOOK on Instagram: @‌shookpodcast Keep up with Horror Humor Hunger: - Instagram: @horrorhumorhungerpodcast -…

It’s no secret that the main character of my newest novel, Much Too Vulgar, is a Georgetown undergraduate. I love the dark academic feel of a story set at a university--and in this case, the university in question has a LOT of lore, both historical and contemporary. Join me and my wonderful college roommates, Sarah and Laura, as we unpack some of t…

In Part 2 of our paranormal investigation miniseries within this season, I’m joined by paranormal researcher Aman Berry. Tune in as we discuss all things ghostly and demonic, including what these entities are, where they come from, and how to protect yourself. Check out Aman’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@SifuAmanBerry/featured Ge…

There’s certainly a lot more to the world than what meets the eye. In this episode, I’m joined by Sadhu Dah, a digital nomad, performing musician, circus aerialist, and… an exorcist. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge in demonology, the paranormal, and several different spiritual disciplines. He’s studied under various monks and forest sha…

My second novel, Much Too Vulgar, publishes TODAY! In this new horror tale, disturbed pre-med student Keely will do anything she can to get into med school, even if it means eliminating her competition. In this Season 6 kickoff episode, you’ll get an exclusive peek at the first chapter of Much Too Vulgar, along with the story (both truth and fictio…

In one year, Alan Shivers went from an unknown author to an indie bestseller multiple times over. His newest release, The Namaste Slasher, combines queer representation, mental health awareness, and campy, 90’s-slasher vibes. Fueled by nostalgia and a knack for community building, Alan is a force to be reckoned with. Join us as we discuss his four …

Woohoo! Instead of a tiny, 30-second teaser for season 6, you get a complete, full-length episode! Today, I’m joined by special guest and fellow author, R. Jacob Honeybrook. His latest book, WHEN WE ONCE LOVED, is available now on Amazon. In this episode, we talk all about writing horror, releasing books, and, of course, reading! Find everything yo…

Bonus episode!! In this segment, I have the wonderful privilege of speaking with the folks of dRead Con Canada, Canada’s very first dark fiction literary festival. Whether you’re a reader interested in meeting authors, an author looking to connect with readers and other authors, or someone who just wants a place where you can let all your awesome w…

Are you hungry? It’s time to feed you! Recipe creator extraordinaire Becky Parr created this Carnival Cake, inspired by my novel A COLD NIGHT FOR ALLIGATORS! It’s set in an abandoned theme park, so the ingredients reflect all the flavors of carnival goodies. Enjoy! INGREDIENTS Cake 1 box french vanilla cake mix (I like Duncan Hines) 1 5.25 oz packa…

In this episode, jack-of-all-horror-trades Charles F. Rosenay!!!, also known as Cryptmaster Chucky, joins me to talk about everything from paranormal investigations to celebrities' favorite horror to Vampire Vacations in Transylvania. Dracula Tour (Vampire Vacations): www.dractours.com Books: www.bookoftop10horrorlists.com ; www.paranormalconnectic…

In this episode, I’m joined by special guest Monique Asher, who is a trauma therapist by day and a horror novelist by night. Her debut novel, DON’T EAT THE PIE, will be released on September 24, 2024. Check out our discussion about everything from dealing with traumatic experiences to horror as catharsis to crafting realistic characters! DON’T EAT …

How would you feel if the Grim Reaper showed up at your funeral? Would you feel comforted to have a transporter for your soul? Would you be scared? If this interests you, then you just might want to plan your very own Fantasy Funeral. In this episode, special guest Jolene Blackbourn, an estate planning attorney and founder of Fantasy Funerals, disc…

Using sound to thrill and scare people is a true art form. In this episode, acclaimed sound designer Jeff Schmidt discusses how sound can elevate and liberate writing, the importance of chasing our creative passions, and his newest project, the audio horror anthology Ominous Thrill. Jeff Schmidt is the acclaimed sound designer behind the incredible…

Did you know that Savannah is the Most Haunted City in America? For good reason, too! In this episode, I’m joined by Brett and Crystal of the Scary Savannah and Beyond Podcast to talk about some of the haunted history and terrifying experiences unique to Savannah! Connect with Brett and Crystal: https://www.scarysavannahandbeyond.com YouTube: https…

Let’s face it--most of us don’t know that much about alligators, and what we think we know (run in a zigzag because alligators are aggressive) is a myth. In this episode, we’re going to do some myth-busting with expert naturalist Shannon Matzke. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this! Fun links: https://news.ncsu.edu/2022/10/alligators-exposed-to-pf…

It’s hard to love a novel if you can’t engage with the characters. Even though they’re fictional, the characters in a book still have personalities, psychologies, motivations, and needs that are worth unpacking. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Camille Holiner discusses trauma-bonding, self-esteem, personal growth, and family dynamics as …

Anyone else like to do wild things and film it for YouTube? No? Just my special guest? In this episode, my wonderful husband Ryan joins us for a discussion of youthful shenanigans, urban exploring, and the horror (and humor!) of getting into trouble--inspired by a pair of characters in my debut novel! Order your copy of my debut horror-thriller nov…

Horror author Z.C. Krol is back to discuss his journey to publication, the horror genre at large, and why we like to scare people so much. You can find Z.C.'s novella Disseverment on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Disseverment/dp/B0C78KNVJQ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1YE2ZCGERHTIO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xNp0gUQHvWWwTtKSmj7OHrB7iuYYV3JPBOoa6WVm17b93U9Vp9_cDU…

Welcome to a brand-new season of Horror Humor Hunger! This season is all about my debut horror-thriller, A COLD NIGHT FOR ALLIGATORS. Tune in for a tasty teaser of the book, then a discussion with a special guest about my inspiration and publication journey! Order your copy of my debut horror-thriller novel, A Cold Night for Alligators: https://vig…

Season 5 is coming soon--and it’s inspired by my debut novel, A Cold Night for Alligators. We’ll have an excerpt from the book, plus interviews from fascinating guests ranging from a wildlife naturalist to a fantasy funeral director--and of course, we’ll end with a delicious recipe from baker extraordinaire, Becky Parr of PerfectSlice Bakeware. You…

When I think canned laughter, I think sitcoms and TV dinners. Join me and recipe genius Becky Parr as we reinterpret the classic TV dinner in a healthier, more nutritious, and--dare I say--more delicious way! Recipe below. Links: You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81133260 “Ultra-Processed People” by C…

If you have no idea what a ‘sex witch’ is, you’re not alone--but you’re about to find out. My very special guest, Olivia LaRue, is a practicing sex witch, legal madame, and certified sex therapist. Join us as we discuss the spooky--and humorous--side of her work, from the terrifyingly paranormal to the hilariously goofy! Sound effects courtesy of P…

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Harker Jones, an editor, writer, and screenwriter with years of experience. Join us as we discuss failing forward, self-publishing, writing for the screen versus print, creative collaboration, movie adaptations, and paranormal experiences. You can find Harker Jones on Instagram https://www…

A huge part of understanding history is learning more about the people who came before us--and sometimes, that means delving into the paranormal. Join me and my very special guest, Dr. Kristy Sumner of Soul Sisters Paranormal, as we discuss ghostly investigations, historic preservation, paranormal tourism, and more! Links Soul Sisters Paranormal: h…

Is anybody else creeped out by old technology? Even if you’re not, join us for a discussion of all things electronic. We also touch on the moviegoing experience, audiophiles, and what makes visual media scary. Links you might enjoy: More information about William Castle and the 4-D moviegoing experience: https://collider.com/william-castle-horror-s…

Have you ever thought very hard about laughter? Laughter can express everything from delight to fear, and it can have physiological implications, as well. It’s also often contagious--which helps explain the canned laugh tracks we all know and (maybe) love. In this episode, Dr. Camille Holiner and I break down the meaning of laughter, the role of gr…

When you really think about it, any industry can be creepy! Join me and my special guest Katherine as we dissect the true story behind “The Laff Box” (it was a real thing!), why something mysterious can also feel sinister, how nonverbal communication like emojis has evolved over time, and several other industries with concealed histories (spoiler a…

We’re kicking things off with my short story “The Laff Box,” which you can also read here: https://vmp22.medium.com/the-laff-box-7bafde9f9008?sk=0598af7d7231964db1d80ad0e8b4fa04 This story is a (hopefully obviously) fictionalized retelling of the real-life Charley Douglass and his Laff Box. Enjoy! Sound effects courtesy of Pixabay. Keep up with Hor…

This season is inspired by my short story “The Laff Box”, which offers a fictionalized history of the famous ‘Laff Box’, the real-life machine behind all those canned sitcom laughs of the late 20th century. In subsequent episodes, we’ll discuss everything from the nature of laughter to the engineering of spooky electronics. Plus, I’m very lucky thi…

We’ve made it to the end of another season, which means it’s time to feed you! I hope you’re hungry for one of my mom, Becky Parr’s, newest creations inspired by “Grandma Ruth’s U.P. Truck Stop.” These Diner Pancake Sandwiches are easy, beautiful, and, of course, delicious. I hope you enjoy them as much as we did! Recipe: Diner Stuffed Pancake Sand…

Northern Michigan, as the short story suggests, is a beautiful place, but it’s also very unique--some might even say weird. In this episode, we’ll talk to two very special guests and native Michiganders who can tell us firsthand what small town Northern Michigan is really like--the wild, the wonderful, and the weird. You can find the book Ryan ment…

Dealing with grief and trauma is never easy, and people have developed so many different coping mechanisms. In this episode, Dr. Camille Holiner and I break down the grief process, how to heal after a traumatic event, the psychological nature of humanity, and more. Keep up with Horror Humor Hunger: - Instagram: @horrorhumorhungerpodcast - Viggy's I…

I know we just talked about the possibilities of artificial intelligence, but hey--things move so fast in the tech world that a part two to this conversation is necessary. My lovely husband Ryan, a computer engineer, is back to discuss some of the new things he’s learned about AI--and trust me, it definitely brings the horror! The two articles we r…

Grandma Ruth’s robots sound terrifying--but are they actually possible? In this episode, my lovely husband Ryan, a computer engineer, talks us through artificial intelligence and the possibility that these robots could--or could not--actually exist, and what that could mean for humanity at large. This is part one of our two-part series on AI and ro…

Is a humanoid robot human at all? Should the dead stay dead? If you bring someone back mechanically, what fills the void? These are the kinds of questions my special guest and I will grapple with as we discuss the inspiration behind and meaning of my short story featured in episode 1, “Grandma Ruth’s U.P. Truck Stop.” If you want to listen to some …

Welcome back for Season 3! This season will focus on my short story “Grandma Ruth’s U.P. Truck Stop.” In this story, graduating University of Michigan engineering student Rachel Regal gets a letter from her hometown letting her know her uncle has passed. However, when she returns home for the funeral, there’s something off about the small town she …

For Season 3, we’re back to our regularly scheduled programming--meaning this season is all about another one of my original short stories. This particular story, which was inspired by The Stepford Wives, is called Grandma Ruth’s U.P. Truck Stop--U.P. as in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It’s creepy, it’s atmospheric, and, I hope, it will make yo…

When you hear ‘alien,' you probably think of a little green man with giant black eyes flying around in a saucer-shaped UFO--but what if aliens really exist, and they’ve visited this planet before? What if they live among us right now? In this episode, we’ll talk to two special guests who have very different opinions about the possibility of alien l…

“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” --Cesar A. Cruz Art holds a very important place in our society--it can disturb, it can comfort, it can intrigue, it can horrify--and everything in between. Join me and my two special guests, who are both accomplished artists, as we break down the intersection of art and horror. You ca…