Scary Spirits Podcast

Gregory Wallace and Karen Hudson

Details

Welcome to the Scary Spirits Podcast, where we explore the spine-tingling world of horror movies and pair them with delicious, themed cocktails! Each episode, our hosts will delve into a classic horror film, breaking down its scares and thrills, and analyzing its impact on the genre. But that’s not all – we’ll also be crafting a delicious cocktail inspired by the movie’s themes and characters. Whether you’re a horror movie buff or a cocktail connoisseur, the “Scary Spirits Podcast” has something for you. Join us as we explore the dark and spooky world of horror movies, and sip on a carefully crafted cocktail to set the mood. From the classic to the obscure, we’ll cover it all – and make sure you have a drink in hand to calm your nerves. So grab your shaker, dim the lights, and settle in for a night of “Scary Spirits”.

Recent Episodes

OCT 21, 2026
Ghost Ship (2002) – SSP286
At the special request of listener Riley, Karen and Greg set sail into the dark waters of the 2002 supernatural horror film Ghost Ship, a motion picture that begins with one of the most shocking openings in modern horror cinema and only grows more mysterious from there. As an added delight, Riley joins our hosts for this listener-requested episode, bringing her own insights and enthusiasm to the discussion of one of her favorite horror movies. Together, Riley, Karen, and Greg explore the eerie legend of the abandoned ocean liner, its tragic passengers, restless spirits, and the sinister secrets lurking beneath the rusted decks. Is Ghost Ship merely an overlooked early-2000s horror film, or is there more lurking beneath the waves than audiences may remember? We examine the film’s unforgettable kills, haunting atmosphere, visual effects, and enduring appeal among horror fans. Naturally, no voyage into terror would be complete without suitable refreshments. While navigating this ghostly maritime nightmare, the crew enjoys a themed Spaghett cocktail, proving that even the most frightening crossings are improved by a well-crafted drink… provided, of course, one survives long enough to savor it. So dim the lights, listen carefully for strange noises below deck, and join us for a chilling discussion of Ghost Ship (2002), haunted ships, supernatural horror, and one listener’s favorite cinematic voyage into the unknown. Spaghett Cocktail Recipe • 1 Miller High Life (12-ounce bottle) • 1 oz Aperol • 1 squeeze of lemon juice Instructions Sip a swig or two from the Miller High Life bottle to leave room for about an ounce more liquid. Add an ounce of Aperol and a squeeze of lemon juice to the Miller High Life, then gently swirl to combine all the ingredients and enjoy. Source: allrecipes.com A Brief Synopsis: In a remote region of the Bering Sea, a boat salvage crew discovers the eerie remains of a grand passenger liner thought lost for more than 40 years. Once on-board, the crew must confront the ship’s horrific past and face the ultimate fight for their lives. Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include: Karen tells us all about welding under water. Riley informs us of the salvage value of an ocean liner. The band Mudvayne is discussed. We learn about the Bering Strait. Karen tells us the value of a 1958 Jaguar XK150. We learn the Antonia Graza was based on the SS Andrea Doria. Our rating of the film: This movie was pretty good. It only took us 2 cocktails to get through it. Take our online survey! We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of! All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page. Get social with us! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails Follow @ScarySpiritsPod Questions, comments or suggestions? Shoot us an email at [email protected] As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.
98 MIN
OCT 14, 2026
Pumpkinhead (1988) – SSP285
Well folks, grab your boots, pour yourself something strong, and stay outta the woods because this week on Scary Spirits, we’re celebrating the anniversary of one of the meanest, mud-covered revenge monsters ever to crawl out of a backwoods nightmare: Stan Winston’s 1988 horror classic, Pumpkinhead, released on October 14, 1988. Join horror-loving hosts Karen and Greg as they head deep into the Appalachian darkness to revisit this cult favorite, where grief, vengeance, and ancient mountain curses come together to unleash a creature that makes your average slasher look like a church picnic. We’ll dig into the film’s unforgettable practical effects, Lance Henriksen’s powerhouse performance, and why Pumpkinhead remains one of the most underrated monster movies of the late ’80s. Of course, no trip to the haunted holler would be complete without a little liquid courage. That’s why Karen and Greg are mixing up a specially crafted Pumpkinhead Movie Cocktail, inspired by the film’s eerie atmosphere, monstrous legend, and Halloween-season chills. Whether you’re a longtime fan of practical creature effects, supernatural revenge tales, or classic 1980s horror movies, this episode is packed with movie trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, laughs, scares, and enough horror discussion to raise the dead. So pull up a chair on the porch, listen for something moving in the trees, and join us for a wickedly fun celebration of Pumpkinhead and its enduring place in horror history. Pumpkinhead Movie Cocktail Recipe • 7 oz ginger beer • 1 oz lemon juice • 1 oz pureed pumpkin • 2 oz milk • pumpkin spice • 1 oz alcoholic spirit of choice Instructions Combine the milk and 3/4 oz of the pureed pumpkin in a bowl. Aerate with a hand blender for 3 minutes, or until it foams up. Combine the ginger beer, remaining pumpkin puree, and lemon juice in a highball glass with ice and stir. Top with the foam and dust with the pumpkin spice. Source: eatmovemake.com A Brief Synopsis: After a group of young adults accidentally kill a young boy named Billy Harley, his father Ed is devastated and the only thing he wants is revenge. Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include: Karen tells us about the 1986 Corvette convertible. We learn about the Canon AE-1 35mm SLR film camera. Karen and Greg reminisce about the Ford vehicles they drove in the late 80’s. Our rating of the film: This movie was pretty good. It only took us 2 cocktails to get through it. Take our online survey! We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of! All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page. Get social with us! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails Follow @ScarySpiritsPod Questions, comments or suggestions? Shoot us an email at [email protected] As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.
54 MIN
OCT 7, 2026
The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires (1974) – SSP284
Step quietly into the shadowed halls of Hammer Horror this week on the Scary Spirits Podcast, where your hosts, Karen and Greg, commemorate the anniversary of the United Kingdom release of the 1974 Hammer Films classic, The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires, originally unleashed upon audiences on October 6th. Combining the gothic terror of Count Dracula with the thrilling spectacle of martial arts adventure, this remarkable cult favorite transports viewers from the mist-shrouded castles of Europe to the mysterious and perilous landscapes of ancient China. Few films have dared to blend horror and action in such an audacious fashion, and even fewer have done so with such memorable charm. As Karen and Greg venture deep into this unusual Hammer masterpiece, they examine its fascinating production history, unforgettable vampire mythology, and enduring place within the golden age of classic horror cinema. Along the way, they raise a glass of a specially crafted themed cocktail, the delightfully named “Hi Karate – Nice to Meet You,” a spirited concoction worthy of toasting both vampire hunters and creatures of the night alike. Whether you are a lifelong devotee of Hammer Horror, a collector of classic vampire films, or simply curious about one of the most unique entries in horror movie history, this episode offers an entertaining journey into a world where ancient curses, deadly vampires, and heroic warriors collide. So pour yourself a cocktail, sharpen your stakes, and join Karen and Greg for an evening of gothic intrigue, supernatural terror, and cinematic adventure as they celebrate The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires, a truly distinctive chapter in Hammer’s celebrated horror legacy. Hi Karate – Nice to Meet You Cocktail • 2 oz self-respecting rum • 1 oz lime juice • 1 oz tangerine juice • 1 oz pineapple juice • 3/4 oz ginger syrup • 1 dash bitters Instructions: Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker. Shake mercilessly. Pour into a tall glass, or better yet, a really questionable tiki mug. Source: heavytable.com A Brief Synopsis: Professor Van Helsing and a group of kung fu masters travel to China to defeat Count Dracula and a sect of gold-masked vampires. Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include: Karen tells us about the Jiangshi, or Chinese hopping vampire. We learn about rickshaws. Karen and Greg discuss gongs and tam-tams. Greg makes references to songs by the bands Rush, T. Rex and Iron Maiden. Our rating of the film: This movie was so bad that it took us 4 cocktails to get through it. Take our online survey! We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of! All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page. Get social with us! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails Follow @ScarySpiritsPod Questions, comments or suggestions? Shoot us an email at [email protected] As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.
65 MIN
SEP 30, 2026
Dressed to Kill (1980) – SSP282
Now listen carefully. This week on the Scary Spirits Podcast, we’re tipping our hats to the elegant and unforgettable Angie Dickinson as we celebrate her remarkable 95th birthday with a deep dive into one of the most stylish and controversial thrillers of the 1980s, Brian De Palma’s Dressed to Kill. Join your gracious hosts, Karen and Greg, as they step into a world of mystery, obsession, suspense, and razor-sharp filmmaking. They’ll unpack the film’s unforgettable performances, shocking twists, Hitchcock-inspired direction, and the enduring legacy that has made Dressed to Kill a cult classic among horror and thriller fans alike. Of course, no visit to the Scary Spirits lounge would be complete without a proper beverage. This week’s featured cocktail, the delightfully provocative “Absolut Voyeur,” is mixed specially to complement the film’s seductive atmosphere and voyeuristic themes. Sip along as Karen and Greg explore the movie’s most memorable moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and its place in horror cinema history. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Angie Dickinson, a devotee of Brian De Palma’s psychological thrillers, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted suspense film paired with a clever cocktail, this episode has your name written all over it. So pour yourself an Absolut Voyeur, settle into your favorite chair, and join us for an entertaining conversation that’s equal parts film appreciation, horror history, and spirited fun. After all, some films aren’t merely watched… they’re experienced. Listen now and celebrate 95 years of Angie Dickinson with a thrilling look back at Dressed to Kill on the Scary Spirits Podcast! Absolut Voyeur Cocktail • 2 parts Absolut Vodka • 3 whole strawberries • 3 whole grapes • 4 fresh basil leaves • 1 tsp superfine sugar • crushed ice and ice cubes Instructions: Muddle: Add the strawberries, grapes, basil leaves and superfine sugar to a cocktail shaker. Muddle them well to release the juices and oils. Shake: Fill the shaker with crushed ice, add the Absolut Vodka and shake thoroughly. Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Source: Absolut Drinks YouTube A Brief Synopsis: A high-end sex worker teams up with a murder victim’s son to find a razor-wielding killer connected to a psychiatric practice. Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include: We learn a little about Angie Dickinson. The painting “Reclining Nude” by American artist Tom Palmore is discussed. Karen tells us about Nancy Hunt Bowman. Greg makes a reference to the album of the same title by the rock band KISS. Our rating of the film: This movie was so bad that it took us 4 cocktails to get through it. Take our online survey! We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of! All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page. Get social with us! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails Follow @ScarySpiritsPod Questions, comments or suggestions? Shoot us an email at [email protected] As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.
62 MIN
SEP 23, 2026
The Old Dark House (1963) – SSP282
Good evening, my friends. This week on the Scary Spirits Podcast, Greg continues his admirable quest to review every horror film produced by Hammer Studios, turning his attention to the delightfully macabre 1963 horror-comedy classic, The Old Dark House. Join hosts Karen and Greg as they venture into a world of eccentric characters, darkened corridors, and wonderfully mischievous humor. Directed by William Castle and featuring a memorable cast, The Old Dark House offers a fascinating blend of Gothic atmosphere and tongue-in-cheek comedy that sets it apart from Hammer’s more traditional tales of terror. As our hosts unravel the film’s peculiar mysteries and discuss its place within the rich history of Hammer Horror, they do so while savoring a specially crafted cocktail inspired by the evening’s feature: the hauntingly delicious “Midnight to Midnight.” Equal parts sophistication and suspense, this themed drink proves the perfect companion for an unforgettable cinematic excursion. Whether you’re a lifelong devotee of classic horror films, a dedicated Hammer Films enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a clever blend of chills and laughter, this episode offers a most enjoyable journey into one of Hammer’s most unusual productions. So draw the curtains, dim the lights, and settle comfortably into your favorite chair as Scary Spirits Podcast explores the charm, comedy, and curious horrors of The Old Dark House (1963). It promises to be a thoroughly delightful evening. Midnight to Midnight Cocktail • 2 oz scotch whisky • 1/2 oz sweet vermouth • 1/2 oz simple syrup • 2 dashes Angostura bitters Instructions: Put ice, scotch, sweet vermouth, simple syrup, and bitters into a mixing glass. Stir well for about 20 seconds. Strain the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice. For a fun movie theme, drop a single cherry in the drink. It looks like the old clock from the movie! A Brief Synopsis: Five stranded travelers are forced to seek shelter in an eerie, decaying Welsh mansion during a brutal storm, only to find themselves trapped with a family of eccentric and dangerous people. Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include: Karen and Greg reminisce about the TV show “Gilligan’s Island”. When did they remove ash trays from new automobiles? Karen teaches us about Morgana le Fay. The story of Noah and the Ark is discussed. Karen tells us about the world’s largest gun collection. Our rating of the film: This movie was so bad that it took us 4 cocktails to get through it. Take our online survey! We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of! All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page. Get social with us! Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails Follow @ScarySpiritsPod Questions, comments or suggestions? Shoot us an email at [email protected] As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.
67 MIN