Spooky Isles: The Podcast

Dacre Stoker: Why Dracula is the Ultimate Halloween Story

As Halloween 2025 approaches, we welcome Dacre Stoker — great‑grandnephew of Bram Stoker — to the Spooky Isles Podcast.Dacre explains why Dracula is the perfect Halloween tale: Irish folklore roots, Whitby inspirations, the “Count Wampyr” what‑if, the missing manuscript pages (including a volcanic ending), and why Bran Castle and Cruden Bay still matter.He also shares details of his upcoming Romania trip culminating in a Vampire Ball inside Bran Castle.Book your Dracula Halloween adventureMore about Dacre: dacrestoker.com · Bram Stoker Estate: bramstokerestate.comMore spooky stories: SpookyIsles.com

David Turnbull, Occult in South London

In the latest edition of Spooky Isles podcast, host David Saunderson talks to David Turnbull, a local tour guide from South London, who delves into the rich and eerie history of Lambeth, exploring its connections to the occult, notable figures, and haunted locations. They discuss the significance of St\\ Mary's Church, the life of Simon Forman, and the influence of the Tradescant family. The conversation also touches on the intersection of medicine and the occult, the role of Lambeth Palace as a centre for occult knowledge, and the contributions of historical figures like William Blake and Aleister Crowley. Turnbull shares insights about his tours and the upcoming release of his book, 'The Hurdy-Gurdy Man'.

Rick Hale, Paranormal Investigator

In this episode of Spooky Isles, David Saunderson and Rachael Elizabeth engage with Rick Hale, a seasoned Chicago-based paranormal investigator and writer, who shares his personal journey of overcoming cancer and becoming an amputee. The conversation explores the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the paranormal field, the importance of inclusivity, and the evolving nature of paranormal investigations influenced by trends in media. Rick reflects on his early experiences with the paranormal and how his diagnosis reshaped his perspective on life and the afterlife. In this conversation, Rick Hale shares his experiences in the paranormal field, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. He discusses the comfort found in spiritual connections, the ability to overcome physical limitations, and the significance of rational investigation in ghost hunting. The dialogue highlights the need for a balanced approach between belief and skepticism, advocating for a community where everyone can participate in paranormal investigations regardless of their physical abilities.

Jay Hollis, Paranormal Investigator & Musician

In this episode of The Spooky Isles, hosts David Saunderson and Rachel Elizabeth welcome musician and paranormal investigator Jay Hollis. They discuss Hollis's debut album, The Ghost's Companion, inspired by a childhood book of ghost stories. The conversation explores the creative process behind turning ghost stories into songs, the realities of paranormal investigations, and the infamous Enfield Poltergeist case. Hollis shares insights on evidence in paranormal research and his personal beliefs about the supernatural, while also hinting at future musical projects.

Darren Sarsfield, Manchester Paranormal Investigator

In this episode of Spooky Hours, David Saunderson interviews Darren Sarsfield, co-founder of Manchester Paranormal. They discuss various paranormal investigation techniques, including the use of new equipment like the SIS camera and the Oculus device. Darren shares his experiences at haunted locations such as Antwerp Mansion and the Ancient Ram Inn, as well as personal encounters with apparitions and poltergeist activity. The conversation also touches on the methods of investigation, the nature of paranormal phenomena, and the excitement of conducting time slip experiments. The episode concludes with insights into future investigations and the importance of trust within the paranormal team.paranormal investigation, haunted locations, SIS camera, Oculus device, Antwerp Mansion, Ancient Ram Inn, poltergeist activity, time slips, Manchester Paranormal, ghost hunting