In the first half, author and explorer Brooks Agnew delved into the Hollow Earth Theory, and how his interest was sparked by various enigmatic scientific test results. This included JPL's probe to investigate auras over both poles, as well as seismology and ultra-fast X-rays used to study the planet's structure. He reported that seismic waves reveal a crust about 850 to 900 miles thick, but beyond that, there are "shadow waves" that puzzle scientists. This leaves much of the Earth's 3,600-mile thickness unexplored, opening questions about what lies beneath. He also pointed to a 2006 breakthrough when researchers at Washington University analyzed 600,000 seismograms, which indicated what appeared to be an ocean beneath the Atlantic crust, challenging conventional views of Earth's interior.
Agnew detailed how fast X-ray spectroscopy experiments at Carnegie Science depict the Earth's core as a massive iron crystal matrixed with xenon gas, solving the mystery of missing atmospheric xenon. This led to the hypothesis of a vast gap —possibly up to 1,200 miles —between the core and crust, which could be "really supportive of Hollow Earth Theory," he remarked. Drawing on ancient beliefs, Agnew noted that "44 ancient cultures believed that Earth was not only hollow, but that the life force for humanity came from the earth."
He shared his plans to explore the Arctic region by chartering a Russian nuclear-powered icebreaker capable of reaching above the 86th parallel to collect ocean floor core samples near the North Pole. Despite setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic and sanctions, he remains determined to conduct this mission. The expedition aims to find physical evidence of openings between Earth's inner and outer oceans, potentially confirming the Hollow Earth theory. "If we find the opening, and there is a way for the two oceans, the inner ocean and outer ocean, to blend...it's going to change everything," he mused.
------------
In the latter half, author and speaker Tui Snider shared her extensive experiences exploring cemeteries worldwide, revealing how these spaces offer more than somber reflection (view related photos). She explained her initial interest began with historical research, noting that inconsistencies in old newspapers led her to verify information on headstones. Despite common perceptions, Snyder does not find graveyards eerie. She recounted childhood memories of playing tag in cemeteries, which later proved life-saving during a frightening attempted abduction. "We escaped by running through that graveyard, and because we knew our way through that graveyard so well, he [the kidnapper] ended up tripping and falling," she said.
Discussing unique cemetery customs, Snyder described Texas family cemeteries where annual gatherings include barbecues, fostering community rather than mourning. Internationally, she praised England's Falmouth Victorian Cemetery for integrating nature conservation, such as supporting 50 species of bees, illustrating cemeteries as vital parts of the natural cycle. She recalled a humorous encounter in New Orleans where a man mistook her for a ghost because of the perfume she was wearing, which was similar to that of the deceased. She also mentioned the 1897 Aurora, Texas, "alien crash" grave, a site marked by a headstone created by a local retired firefighter after the original was stolen.
Snyder highlighted a cemetery in Tonga where graves are mounded with beach sand and adorned with crocheted blankets, accompanied by personalized billboards. She also spoke of Romania's Merry Cemetery, famed for its bright blue wooden crosses featuring painted portraits and candid, sometimes snarky epitaphs. She views cemeteries as cultural mirrors, noting, "Whenever I am in a new place, I want to see the cemetery there. This can tell you a lot about the people."
News segment guests: Howard Bloom, Mish Shedlock