Creatively and distinctly intertwining all manner of things strange and spooky – from independent items to unsettling coincidences, haunting places, and plenty more – Sanctum of Strange is a brand new independent podcast, and makes for a refreshing twist on the horror, paranormal, and crime-based podcast format.
Host Nikki Zimmy brings together a passion for strange stories and a playful vocal style fit to embody the variety of characters, scenes and discoveries that make up the Sanctum of Strange Podcast.
Created using stories submitted by its audience, the podcast explores the lesser known tales and spooky adventures of the underground realm, and does so in the simple but gripping manner of independent monologues; guided by a host whom clearly embraces the performative aspect of storytelling.
Most recently, Haunted Memories: Exploring the Gettysburg Orphanage makes for a fascinating and compelling episode. Coming in at just under thirty minutes, this is an easily digestible story-time segment, told in the first person for that authenticity of tale, and the imagery and detail, the scenes, the emotions and observations, are all presented in a way that effectively holds your attention from the outset.
The Gettysburg Orphanage notes a dark history of institutional cruelty, seeing it transformed by a new headmistress from a haven of safety to a renowned ‘Hell on Earth’. The scenes are set to replicate the haunting aftermath of these times, from a cradle that rocks itself, to a dungeon where children were beaten and chained.
Nikki steps through these stages and scenes and essentially takes the listener with her, to wander through the eerie remains, to try to engage with spirits, and to feel the overwhelming aura of past suffering. It’s ghost hunting with an emotionally loaded twist, and it sets the bar well for the extent of the Sanctum of Strange Podcast.
From ghostly encounters to unexplained phenomena, Sanctum of Strange encapsulates the implications of its name, inviting audience suggestions whilst consistently guiding with a clear love for the strange and spooky underbelly of modern paranormal and unsettling situations and stories.
The set-up balances scary stories with a laid-back, fun vocal presentation, and as such lulls its audience into a false sense of security initially, before establishing a memorable crescendo – thanks to the sheer contrast established when each story or episode reaches its peak.
Story suggestions can be emailed or DM’d to Nikki via any platform. Check out all streaming options for Sanctum of Strange. Follow Sanctum of Strange on YouTube, TikTok & X or visit their Website.
