Hear how Gothic literature uses scary stories and the supernatural to explore human nature. Then learn about the origins and traditions of Mexico's annual celebration of departed loved ones. And get a New Orleans tour guide's take on the uniquely spiritual culture of her city as well as some of its most haunted sights.

• Madeline Potter, author of "Theological Monsters: Religion and Irish Gothic" (University of Wales Press)
• Luisa Navarro, author of "Mexico's Day of the Dead" (Hardie Grant North America)
• Sandy Hester, tour guide with Free Tours By Foot New Orleans

• Madeline Potter explores her family background in her book, "The Roma: A Traveling History." Her latest title, "Theological Monsters: Religion and Irish Gothic" is scheduled to be released in early 2026 by the University of Wales Press.
• The semiannual Whitby Goth Weekend is October 30 through November 2, 2025 "within the shadows of Whitby Abbey" in North Yorkshire, England.
• Luisa Navarro is the author of the photo book "Mexico's Day of the Dead" (published September 2025). She also operates a retail and online gift shop, Mexico in My Pocket, in Brooklyn, NY.
• Luisa describes how to properly build an altar as an offering to a deceased loved one for the Day of the Dead, and the significance of what goes into it.
• The Grace Museum in Abilene, Texas explores the history of La Catrina.
• Sandy Hester provides walking tours with Free Tours by Foot New Orleans, including its "ghost tours" of the city.
• Sandy is included is a number of the Free Tours by Foot YouTube walking tour videos of New Orleans, hosted by Andrew Farrier.
• The University of New Orleans looks at the gruesome history of the city's Lalaurie Mansion.