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What uncanny fears keep you up at night? Join us as we unravel the intricacies of fear and superstition on the latest episode of the Nightmare Engine podcast. We're thrilled to have Christine Daigle, a versatile writer shifting from steampunk to dark thrillers, join us for an exploration into the eerie and unsettling. Together, we navigate through an array of chilling superstitions, from the haunting Latin of exorcism prayers to the disquieting tales of mirrors in shadowy rooms, all while sharing personal stories from my past as a police officer facing the unknown.

As we journey further, the discussion takes exhilarating twists into the realm of irrational fears and dangerous thrills. From the heights of skydiving to the ominous fear of trains, we dissect why some dangers entice us while others paralyze us with fear. Alongside Christine, we ponder the neuroscience behind sociopathic behavior, featuring insights from neuropsychologist James Fallon, and examine the role of environmental influences in shaping one's moral compass through gripping anecdotes of investigating violent crimes.

The episode culminates in a heartfelt discussion on the power of empathy and human connection. We reflect on the importance of acknowledging emotions and fostering genuine interactions, much like those learned from FBI interrogator training. Our conversation also touches on the fascinating intersection of technology and mental health, diving into the potential, and potential pitfalls, of brain-computer interfaces. With a lighter touch, we end with a humorous story about an airline system playfully named Skynet. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions and insights that promise to leave you both pensive and entertained.

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You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

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Prepare yourself for a chilling journey into the world of horror as we welcome the masterful James Cain to the Nightmare Engine podcast. Balancing his life as a finance professional in the icy realms of New Jersey, James shares the unique challenges and amusing stories of keeping his horror writing persona separate from his day-to-day life. Listen as we laugh about the quirky reactions from colleagues and loved ones who stumble upon our dark tales, and embrace the peculiar joys that come with being a horror writer.

Revisit the spine-tingling nostalgia of horror cinema, as we reminisce about the thrill of VHS tapes and the iconic films that shaped the genre. From the slasher thrills of "Friday the 13th" to the cosmic terror of "Event Horizon," we explore how different environments enhance the horror experience. You'll even get a sneak peek into the eerie world of "Dead Children's Playground," where unsettling settings make for captivating storytelling.

Discover the art of crafting horror with realism, as we delve into the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the essence of survival in extreme situations. Through personal experiences and tales like "Mr. Wicker" and "Black Friday," we uncover the layers of human nature that drive the chaos and terror in our stories. With James by our side, we dissect the haunting soundscapes of films like "Sinister" and "Paranormal Activity," appreciating the intricate storytelling that makes horror an unforgettable experience. Don't miss this chance to explore the mysteries and nuances of the horror genre with us!

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏

How did you like the show? Text us and let us know.

After a surprise bout of pneumonia rudely interrupted my vacation, I returned to the Nightmare Engine podcast with renewed energy and a very special guest—Denise Guay, also known as DM Guay—to dive into the wonderfully bizarre world of horror comedy. Denise, whose early influences came from her mother’s unexpected love for humor and scares, shared her expert insights on how movies like Shaun of the Dead and Tucker and Dale vs. Evil masterfully balance laughs with screams. Our lively conversation explores horror comedy not just as a quirky genre mashup, but as the perfect entry point for those hesitant to tackle the full-on frights of traditional horror.

We also reflected on personal boundaries in horror, like my own visceral reaction to body horror and the irrational fears we all carry—yes, even something as mundane as trains. Horror fiction, much like Stephen King’s works, often provides a safe space to confront our deepest anxieties. I even shared a ghostly encounter of my own, a night at the haunted Emily Morgan Hotel where the line between reality and fiction blurred in eerie ways.

From there, the episode takes a wild turn as Denise and I talk about our visit to a Bigfoot convention in Ohio, where the legendary cryptid came to life through art, folklore, and enthusiastic theories. We also explored the parallels between horror storytelling and real-world tech advancements, like Elon Musk’s neural implants, and how these innovations inspire both creativity and ethical dilemmas in the genre.

I wrapped up the episode by inviting listeners to visit my website for more horror storytelling adventures, including my latest project, Scare Mail. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or just curious to dip your toes into the strange and spooky, this episode promises a delightful mix of humor, fear, and the unknown.

🔗Connect with David
🌎 Website | 🎥 Youtube | 👨‍🏫Facebook | 📸 Instagram |🐤 Twitter | 🕰️TikTok

⭐️ Leave a Review

If you enjoy listening to the podcast, please do leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and let us know in your review who you want to see next on the podcast. Thanks!

You can also Tweet me @ViergutzDavid and tell me what horror author you want to hear from next, or what topics you want me to cover. 🙏🙏