Podcast Summary: "And That's Why We Drink"
Episode: E438 The Mighty S.S. Leona and an Unexpected Pasta Experience
Release Date: June 29, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of "And That's Why We Drink," hosts Christine Schiefer and EM Schultz delve into a chilling blend of true crime and paranormal tales. The episode is aptly titled "The Mighty S.S. Leona and an Unexpected Pasta Experience," promising listeners a mix of maritime mystery and unexpected real-life encounters.

The Legend of Colossal Claude

[21:25] EM Schultz introduces the saga of Colossal Claude, a cryptid purported to inhabit Oregon's Columbia River. Described as a massive creature with the head of a horse and a snake-like body measuring approximately 40 feet in length, Claude has captured the imagination of cryptid enthusiasts and locals alike.

• Description & Sightings:

  • [24:06] Christine Schiefer reflects, "I wish I could come up with a funny name, but 'Colossal Claude' has a nice ring to it."
  • [27:08] The hosts discuss various sightings, including one by Captain Jensen of the tender boat "The Rose", who reported seeing Claude with an eight-foot-long neck and a mean-looking tail.
  • [34:15] EM Schultz elaborates, "Colossal Claude was seen again three years later by Captain Graham of the boat "The Viv", describing it as a long, hairy, tan-colored creature with a horse-like head."

• Physical Attributes & Behavior:

  • Claude's neck extends 15 feet above the water, making it nearly twice the length of a standard giraffe.
  • Witnesses report Claude displaying territorial behavior, such as stealing fish from fishing lines, as recounted by Captain Anderson of the fishing boat "The Argo".

• Theories & Explanations:

  • [46:16] Christine Schiefer speculates, "It sounds like someone overheard another group talking about Colossal Claude and just wanted to try and fit the pieces together."
  • The hosts discuss scientific explanations, including the possibility of Claude being a large fish like an oarfish or a whale, though many in the cryptid community lean towards mythical explanations, such as a surviving plesiosaur.

• Cultural Impact:

  • [52:02] EM Schultz mentions, "Although Colossal Claude hasn't been seen in quite a long time, his memory lives on among cryptid lovers."
  • The episode highlights the community's fascination with Claude, even mentioning a craft beer named "Rogue Colossal Claude IPA", celebrating the cryptid's enduring legacy.

An Unexpected Pasta Experience

[18:46] The episode takes a humorous detour as EM Schultz shares a personal anecdote about being recognized while eating an abundance of pasta. This encounter leads to an unexpected interaction with a fan seeking a story suggestion, which inadvertently ties back into the cryptid narrative.

• Embarrassing Encounters:

  • [19:18] EM recounts, "I was eating pasta so much, and someone recognized me and asked if I had a podcast, leading to the Colossal Claude story."

• Community Interactions:

  • The hosts humorously discuss how such public recognitions can lead to unintended story inspirations, blending personal experiences with the show's paranormal themes.

Delphi Murders: Part Two Recap

Transitioning from cryptid lore, Christine Schiefer provides a comprehensive recap of the ongoing investigation into the Delphi murders, emphasizing the complexities and community impact of this tragic case.

• Case Background:

  • [63:22] The episode recounts the murders of teenage girls Abby and Libby on February 13, 2017, at the Monon High Bridge.

• Investigation Developments:

  • [72:25] A significant turn occurred in December 2021 when the Indiana State Police sought information on two social media accounts under the username Anthony_Shots_SHOTS, linked to child exploitation.
  • [85:14] The investigation eventually led to the arrest of Richard Allen, a 50-year-old man with no prior significant criminal history, raising questions about his connection to the murders.

• Trial and Conviction:

  • [94:32] Richard Allen's trial was marked by dramatic testimonies, including Victim Impact Statements from the families and contentious interactions with the judge.
  • [105:26] Despite a defense attempting to introduce theories involving Odinism and cult rituals, the prosecution maintained a focus on the physical and ballistic evidence linking Allen to the crimes.
  • [116:32] The jury convicted Richard Allen on four counts of murder, sentencing him to 130 years in prison, although he remains unconnected to the initial suspect, Keegan Klein (Anthony_Shots).

• Community and Media Impact:

  • The episode explores how online sleuthing and media frenzy have both aided and complicated the investigation, often causing distress to the families involved.
  • [121:54] Christine Schiefer reflects on the emotional toll, stating, "The girls' families have been very distressed by the online commentary and sleuthing, which has muddied the waters of the investigation."

Conclusion & Reflections

Throughout the episode, Christine and EM navigate the intertwining of personal anecdotes, community stories, and investigative journalism. They emphasize the importance of respecting victims' families while exploring the depths of true crime and paranormal phenomena.

• Emotional Insights:

  • [117:11] EM Schultz expresses empathy, "Not only the last words but knowing they were scared... it's devastating."

• Community Resilience:

  • The discussion concludes with a tribute to the victims, Abby and Libby, highlighting community efforts to memorialize them through the Abby and Libby Memorial Park, fostering a space for remembrance and healing.

Notable Quotes

• EM Schultz [21:25]: "Colossal Claude is like a lone plesiosaur that may be stuck around here because he found the river salmon population."

• Christine Schiefer [27:09]: "How long is a school bus? Okay, 40ft. Hell, yeah, brother."

• EM Schultz [34:32]: "It looks like a snake, an underwater snake dinosaur."

• Christine Schiefer [105:49]: "Each time his wife told him he did not kill Abby and Libby, something seemed wrong and he seemed unwell."

• EM Schultz [116:47]: "It's a reminder to all of us that from the most obvious person to the least obvious person, it could be anyone."

Final Thoughts

This episode masterfully blends the eerie allure of cryptid legends with the harrowing realities of unsolved crimes, offering listeners both thrills and deep emotional narratives. Christine and EM invite their audience to ponder the unknown while honoring the memories of those lost, all while navigating their own humorous and relatable experiences.

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections as per the podcast's guidelines.