The Beast of Bridgwater | Talk Spooky to Me

In this episode of *Talk Spooky to Me*, Brennan Storr and Paul Bestel dive into listener mail with a mix of humor, personal anecdotes, and deep dives into paranormal topics. The episode opens with Brennan recounting a bizarre book event in Toronto where a young author’s horror novel reading—featuring cyclopean bees in a post-apocalyptic world—was met with stunned silence and audience discomfort, prompting a humorous critique of the author’s lack of social awareness. The hosts then explore listener reactions to past episodes, including a fan’s delight over a song from *Goddamn The Shadow Man* and a nostalgic return of the band Scooter. A surprising moment occurs when Brennan’s stereo receiver turns itself on to FM static—unplugged and unused—adding a touch of real-life mystery. The episode’s centerpiece is a compelling account from listener Big Paul D., who describes a chilling encounter with a large black cat in Somerset, UK, near Bridgwater, complete with detailed physical descriptions and evidence like torn turf and footprints. The hosts passionately debate the existence of wild big cats in the UK, citing DNA evidence, police findings, and widespread sightings, while criticizing official dismissals as classist and scientifically lazy. They also touch on the cultural mythologizing of historical figures like Hitler, arguing against romanticizing evil as 'nerdy' or 'efficient.' The episode closes with Brennan’s vivid story of discovering Sotol—a meat-infused agave-like spirit—and a heartfelt message from a father celebrating his daughters’ protest gesture against Trump Tower, underscoring the show’s theme of small, defiant joys in turbulent times.