The NoSleep Podcast - Season 22, Episode 12: "NoSleep Podcast S22E12"

Release Date: March 2, 2025 | Presented by Creative Reason Media Inc.

Introduction and Host Shoutout

The episode kicks off with the Creepy Narrator setting a chilling tone:

"They're calling. The phone is ringing. A message from an unknown caller... [00:07]"

The host, affectionately referring to the audience as "Little Monsters," extends heartfelt congratulations to Elias Witheroe, a longtime contributor whose works like House in the Field, Tall Dog, and Feed the Pig have been favorites among listeners. Notably, The Third Parent is slated for a screen adaptation by the Walters Media Group under the direction of David Michaels, a development the host celebrates enthusiastically:

"Kudos to you, Elias. Can't wait to see your story on the screen. Check the show notes for a link to the big announcement." [01:23]

The host emphasizes the episode's focus on inhuman creatures that lurk in the shadows of everyday life, setting the stage for the terrifying tales to follow.

First Tale: The Whispering Assistant

Authors & Performers: Author Matt Scott; Performed by Jeff Clement, Ellie Hirschman, and Mary Murphy.

Summary: The first story delves into the unnerving presence of virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri. Centered on Rory, a man seeking solace in sleep with the help of his virtual assistant, the tale paints a picture of privacy invasion and subtle horror.

Key Plot Points:

• Rory engages his virtual assistant to play thunderstorm sounds to aid his sleep.
• Instead of the usual response, the assistant whispers ominously: "Play thunderstorm sounds, please." [09:38]
• Despite the unsettling exchange, Rory tries to dismiss his fears, retreating under heavy blankets.
• The room remains eerily silent after the whisper, leaving Rory on edge.
• The story subtly hints at the assistant's ability to discern intent, amplifying the sense of unease.
• Rory's struggle with the abnormal behavior of his assistant underscores the theme of technology becoming malevolent.

Notable Quotes:

• "A whisper in the dark? Fucking creepy, man." [09:50]
• "He wasn't scared." [11:01]

Conclusion: The tale closes with Rory calming himself, convincing himself that his anxiety is unfounded as the comforting sounds of a thunderstorm finally envelop the room. However, the final line hints at impending doom:

"It was the last thing Rory ever heard." [12:11]

Second Tale: The Haunting of Zombie Road

Authors & Performers: Author Dave; Performed by Graham Rowett and Nicole Goodnight.

Summary: Set against the backdrop of St. Louis, this story explores the dark legends surrounding Zombie Road, a locale steeped in urban myths of restless spirits and tragic histories.

Key Plot Points:

• Dave and Nikita decide to venture down Zombie Road despite numerous local legends warning against it.
• The road is infamous for tales of railroad workers, pioneers, mental patients, and tragic accidents leading to hauntings.
• As they walk, subtle signs of supernatural presence begin to manifest, including an unnerving encounter with a great horned owl that exhibits predatory behavior far beyond natural instincts.
• Tensions rise between Dave and Nikita, revealing underlying fears and prompting a desperate attempt to flee.
• The eerie atmosphere intensifies with shadowy figures emerging from the woods, accompanied by childlike giggles and unnatural sounds.
• A horrifying chase ensues as an unidentified creature pursues them, leading to Nikita's disappearance and Dave's frantic escape.
• The story leaves readers questioning the true nature of Zombie Road and the unresolved fate of Nikita.

Notable Quotes:

• "So what the fuck are we doing here?" [15:30]
• "Nikita set off down Zombie Road without me." [18:24]
• "We have to make camp." [61:42]

Conclusion: The narrative culminates in a terrifying revelation about Zombie Road's malevolent forces, leaving Dave haunted by unanswered questions and the inexplicable disappearance of his friend. The host underscores the sinister reputation of Zombie Road, advising listeners to heed the warnings:

"If you're ever in St. Louis, you should never go to Zombie Road. Ever." [29:18]

Third Tale: The Curse of the Campsite

Authors & Performers: Author Emily E. Jones; Performed by Jesse Cornett, Mike Delgadio, and Graham Rowett.

Summary: The final story unravels the nightmare of Adam and Jonathan, two friends whose camping trip evolves into a harrowing ordeal marked by supernatural assaults and psychological torment.

Key Plot Points:

• Adam and Jonathan embark on a camping trip to reconnect and escape the stresses of daily life.
• Initial camaraderie gives way to eerie occurrences, including strange movements in the woods and disconcerting behavior from Jonathan.
• As night falls, Adam experiences a vivid nightmare of a monstrous entity attacking him, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.
• The following day, they encounter more ominous signs, including missing food supplies and Jonathan's increasingly erratic behavior.
• The story delves deep into themes of fear, survival, and the psychological impact of relentless horror.
• The narrative reaches a crescendo as Adam battles both external monstrosities and internal guilt, culminating in a nightmarish showdown that leaves him scarred and questioning his own sanity.

Notable Quotes:

• "I knew you were no pussy, Dave." [19:12]
• "I didn't respond. I was pouting and scanning the tree line above us for movement." [19:48]
• "I'm not ready yet, I told myself. Not yet. Maybe later." [84:22]

Conclusion: The tale wraps up with Adam escaping the cursed campsite, forever marked by the traumatic events and the ambiguous nature of his encounter. The lingering horror emphasizes the episode's overarching theme of unseen threats lurking just beyond the perimeter of safety.

Episode Conclusion and Production Credits

While the Creepy Narrator briefly mentions sponsorships and production details towards the end, these sections are succinct and serve as acknowledgments rather than content-focused discussions. The episode closes with a reminder of the podcast's dedication to delivering sleepless horror stories, inviting listeners to explore more through their Sleepless Sanctuary.

Production Team:

• Musical Score: Brandon Boone
• Production: Phil Mikulski, Jeff Clement, Jesse Cornett, Claudius Moore
• Editorial: Jessica McAvoy, Ashley McInally, Ollie A. White, Kristen Cimido

Final Thoughts

"NoSleep Podcast" Season 22, Episode 12 delivers a spine-chilling anthology of original horror stories that harness the power of atmospheric narration and immersive storytelling. From the insidious whispers of virtual assistants to the haunting legends of Zombie Road and the nightmarish trials of Adam and Jonathan's camping trip, each tale intertwines psychological terror with supernatural dread. Notable quotes punctuate the narratives, enhancing the immersive experience and leaving listeners on the edge of their seats.

Whether you're a seasoned horror enthusiast or new to the genre, this episode offers a compelling exploration of fears both contemporary and timeless, ensuring a sleepless night awaits all who dare to listen.