Few objects from popular culture have been as divisive and mysterious as these simple games. But before you dismiss their sensational reputation, it's worth exploring the wreckage they have left in their wake.

Narrated and produced by Aaron Mahnke, with writing by GennaRose Nethercott, research by Cassandra de Alba, and music by Chad Lawson.

—————————

PRE-ORDER EXHUMED TODAY: aaronmahnke.com/exhumed

—————————

Lore Resources:

• Get Ad-Free Lore: lorepodcast.com/support
• Episode Music: lorepodcast.com/music
• Episode Sources: lorepodcast.com/sources
• Official Lore Merchandise: lorepodcast.com/shop

—————————

Sponsors:

• Squarespace: Head to Squarespace.com/lore to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using the code LORE.
• MeUndies: Slide into game changing comfort and get up to 50% off at MeUndies.com/lore with the promo code LORE.
• SimpliSafe: Secure your home with 24/7 professional monitoring. Sign up today at SimpliSafe.com/Lore to get 50% off a new SimpliSafe system.
• HomeServe: Help protect your home systems – and your wallet – against covered repairs. Plans start at just $4.99 a month at HomeServe.com.

—————————

To report a concern regarding a radio-style, non-Aaron ad in this episode, reach out to ads @ lorepodcast.com with the name of the company or organization so we can look into it.

To advertise on this podcast please email: ad-sales@libsyn.com. Or go to: https://advertising.libsyn.com/lore

—————————

©2026 Aaron Mahnke. All rights reserved.

We tend to see weddings as the beginning of something grand. A new start with joy and happiness as a destination. But if these popular legends are any indication, that's not always the tale that's told.

Narrated and produced by Aaron Mahnke, with writing and research by Alex Robinson and GennaRose Nethercott.

—————————

PRE-ORDER EXHUMED TODAY: aaronmahnke.com/exhumed

—————————

Lore Resources:

• Get Ad-Free Lore: lorepodcast.com/support
• Episode Music: lorepodcast.com/music
• Episode Sources: lorepodcast.com/sources
• Official Lore Merchandise: lorepodcast.com/shop

—————————

Sponsors:

• BetterHelp: Lore is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at BetterHelp.com/LORE, and get on your way to being your best self.
• Gusto: Online payroll and benefits software built for small businesses. Try Gusto today at Gusto.com/LORE, and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll.
• Quince: Premium European clothing and accessories for 50% to 80% less than similar brands. Visit Quince.com/LORE for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.
• CookUnity: Try the freshest, best-tasting meal delivery made by your favorite celebrity chefs. Go to CookUnity.com/LORE or enter code LORE before checkout, for 50% off your first week.

—————————

To report a concern regarding a radio-style, non-Aaron ad in this episode, reach out to ads @ lorepodcast.com with the name of the company or organization so we can look into it.

To advertise on this podcast please email: ad-sales@libsyn.com. Or go to: https://advertising.libsyn.com/lore

—————————

©2026 Aaron Mahnke. All rights reserved.

Go deeper into the subject matter of our most recent episode (299: Unsinkable) with these three recommendations from further back in the Lore catalog:

• Episode 21: LorePodcast.com/episodes/21
• Episode 104: LorePodcast.com/episodes/104
• Episode 122: LorePodcast.com/episodes/122

————————

Lore Resources:

• Episode Music: lorepodcast.com/music
• Episode Sources: lorepodcast.com/sources
• Official Lore Merchandise: www.lorepodcast.com/shop

©2026 Aaron Mahnke. All rights reserved.