The NoSleep Podcast
Episode: S23 Ep3: NoSleep Podcast S23E03
Release Date: July 20, 2025
Host/Producer: Creative Reason Media Inc.

Overview

In Episode S23 Ep3 of The NoSleep Podcast, listeners are taken on a chilling journey through three original horror tales, each meticulously crafted to evoke fear and suspense. Hosted by David Cummings, the episode delves into themes of cryptids, the dark consequences of unbridled desire, and sinister manipulations orchestrated by a disturbed individual. Enhanced by rich atmospheric music and compelling voice performances, this episode stands out as a testament to the series' award-winning storytelling prowess.

First Tale: Secrets of North Harbor

Narrated by: Lindsay Russo
Performers: Sarah Thomas, Mary Murphy, Peter Lewis
Timestamp: [06:33] - [25:42]

Summary: The story follows a woman, driven by the desire to honor her deceased mother, as she returns to North Harbor—a coastal town plagued by environmental disasters and now abandoned to the ravages of time. Upon arrival, she encounters unsettling phenomena that starkly contrast with the town's online facade. The protagonist meets Jenny, a young girl mourning the loss of her mother to a monstrous entity dubbed "the crustacean." Together, they witness horrifying acts of this creature, which appears to be a hybrid of human and marine elements, feeding on the townsfolk. The narrative explores themes of generational secrets, environmental decay, and the sinister forces that can emerge from nature's depths.

Notable Quotes:

• "The crustacean took Mama, and Papa's not gonna do nothing." ([15:21] - Graham Rowett)
• "Their presence. He was dragging a body from the semicircle crowd to the far side of the shore." ([16:03] - Lindsay Russo)

Key Points:

• Environmental Collapse: North Harbor's decline mirrors real-world concerns about pollution and climate change, adding a layer of realism to the horror.
• Mystery of the Pearls: Both the protagonist and Jenny possess mysterious pearls that seemingly guide them, hinting at a deeper supernatural connection.
• Cryptid Manifestation: The crustacean serves as a physical manifestation of nature's vengeance, blending folklore with environmental horror.

Second Tale: The Cost of Desire

Narrated by: Graham Rowett
Performers: Marie Westbrook, Nicole Goodnight, Tanya Milosevich, and others
Timestamp: [30:24] - [51:50]

Summary: Authored by Chris Green, this story centers on Annie, a young woman whose desires inexplicably manifest reality. Initially benign, these desires soon escalate, resulting in unintended and tragic consequences. From minor acts like orchestrating a classmate's altercation to more severe outcomes like her father's alcoholism leading to his demise, Annie grapples with the moral implications of her power. As her abilities grow, so does the chaos surrounding her, culminating in a harrowing climax where her final desire—ending her own life to save everyone else—is manipulated, leading to irreversible losses.

Notable Quotes:

• "When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it." ([30:24] - Graham Rowett)
• "Feasting on her mother, Feasting on my grandmother." ([25:42] - Lindsey Russo)

Key Points:

• Moral Dilemma: Annie's journey highlights the ethical quandaries of power without control, questioning whether absolute desires are worth the collateral damage.
• Psychological Depth: The story delves into Annie's internal struggles, reflecting real-life issues like depression and the search for meaning.
• Karmic Balance: The recurring theme of actions leading to debts suggests a cosmic balance system, where every desire has its price.

Third Tale: The Doctor's Decree

Narrated by: Kyle Akers
Performers: Marie Westbrook, Graham Rowett
Timestamp: [55:18] - [80:16]

Summary: Crafted by Connor Fugis, this narrative follows Marie, a seemingly ordinary woman who meets Frank, a charismatic doctor at a bar. Under the influence of alcohol, Marie is coerced into assisting Frank with a dark and morally reprehensible task: murdering his unfaithful wife. As the night unfolds, Marie is drawn deeper into Frank's twisted world, revealing his sinister motivations and the lengths he will go to achieve his desires. The story explores themes of manipulation, the loss of self, and the thin veneer between normalcy and monstrosity.

Notable Quotes:

• "When you need dirty deeds done dirt cheap, it's best to find someone ordinary to do them." ([55:18] - Kyle Akers)
• "My name is not Frank. But I'm sure you figured that." ([74:22] - Kyle Akers)

Key Points:

• Manipulative Antagonist: Frank embodies the archetype of the charming yet malevolent figure, drawing Marie into his nefarious plans.
• Loss of Innocence: Marie's transformation from a reluctant participant to a complicit murderer underscores the horrifying impact of manipulation and coercion.
• Psychological Horror: The story delves into the psyche of both the victim and the perpetrator, showcasing how ordinary individuals can be driven to commit unspeakable acts under duress.

Conclusion

Episode S23 Ep3 of The NoSleep Podcast masterfully intertwines supernatural elements with deeply rooted psychological fears. Through its three distinct stories, the episode examines the dark sides of human nature, environmental negligence, and the catastrophic repercussions of unchecked desires. With standout performances and a haunting musical backdrop, this episode not only entertains but also provokes thought about the unseen forces that govern our lives and the thin lines that separate order from chaos.

Notable Closing Quote:

• "The no Sleep Podcast is presented by Creative Reason Media. Remember, seek safety from the things that stalk us in the night." ([76:39] - David Cummings)

Production Notes:

• Musical Score: Composed by Brandon Boone, enhancing the atmospheric tension.
• Production Team: Phil Michalski, Jeff Clement, Jesse Cornett, and Claudius Moore.
• Editorial Team: Jessica McAvoy, Ashley McAnally, Ollie A. White, and Kristen Samido.

For more sleepless horror stories and exclusive content, visit sleepless.thenosleeppodcast.com.