The Cracked Cauldron Podcast
Welcome to The Cracked Cauldron, a podcast hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob A. Garner. In each episode, Ed and Jacob will have free-flowing conversations about horror, life, culture, and personal growth. Expect to hear from storytellers, authors, horror experts, life gurus, thought leaders, and influencers. The Cauldron is a place where concoctions of a lot of ideas are brewed down to potions that are sometimes important and useful, sometimes eccentric and bizarre, but always just what you need. The Cauldron Podcast may contain explicit language and thematic elements not suitable for all audiences; listener discretion is advised.
Episodes

Sep 1, 2024
Sep 1, 2024
1hr 4 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 11 - The Cauldron Chronicles- Whispers from the CreepyCon
Release Date: August 15, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron Podcast, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner dive into the enchanting world of Halloween. They embark on a spirited exploration of the holiday’s rich history and cultural significance, tracing its roots back to ancient Celtic traditions. The hosts illuminate the mystical role of witches in Halloween lore, examining their portrayal in literature and media through the ages.
The discussion also brings to life iconic Halloween monsters, such as Frankenstein’s monster and vampires, and their fascinating evolution in popular culture. As the episode unfolds, listeners are treated to a sneak peek of thrilling events and episodes lined up for the Halloween season, including a special After Dark episode and the much-anticipated Appalachian Horror Fest.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. ©Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.
Episode Notes:
The House of the Devil" 1896— Georges Méliès— Le Manoir du Diable YouTube
The Cultural Evolution of Halloween Web Article
History of Halloween - Documentary YouTube

Aug 20, 2024
Aug 20, 2024
1hr 11 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 10 - The Cauldron Chronicles: Whispers from the CreepyCon
Release Date: August 15, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron Podcast, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner share their experiences as vendors at CreepyCon 24 in Knoxville, Tennessee. They discuss the event's highlights, including cosplay, vendors, and personal reflections on current events. The episode also touches on various topics, including sports, societal issues, and personal anecdotes, all while maintaining a light-hearted and whimsical tone.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. ©Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.

Aug 11, 2024
Aug 11, 2024
57 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 9 - Tending the Cauldron
Release Date: August 8, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron Podcast, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner blend humor, personal stories, and current events. They discuss an upcoming paranormal investigation and delve into a chilling true crime case of serial killer Collins Jumaisi Khalusha. The hosts also share their excitement for CreepyCon 2024 and touch on mental health and personal well-being. This episode offers a mix of light-hearted banter and deeper reflections, perfect for fans of horror and personal growth.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. ©Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.

Aug 1, 2024
Aug 1, 2024
1hr 5 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 8 - Catching Up and Hanging Out
Release Date: August 1, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner reconnect with their listeners, sharing personal updates and the latest happenings. They discuss exciting events like CreepyCon, reflect on recent historical events, and recount Ed’s experiences from a memorable hotel stay. The hosts also tackle serious topics such as discrimination and legal issues affecting the community. The episode features sharing dad jokes, introducing a new segment called ‘The Brew’ for listener submissions, and promoting the upcoming Appalachian Horror Fest. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast on social media and attend the upcoming festival.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music is “The Brew,” and background music is “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. ©Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.

Jul 24, 2024
Jul 24, 2024
51 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 7 - Tales of the Phantom Fleet”
Release Date: July 25, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner are joined by Kristen Newby, the voice actor for Ms. Sibyl on the Ravens Vail Podcast. The three delve into the mysterious world of ghost ships, exploring legends and real-life cases. Jacob leads the discussion of the eerie tales surrounding ghost ships like the Mary Celeste and the Orang Medan, sharing details of their mysterious disappearances. The conversation touches on theories ranging from sea creatures to covert military operations, adding layers of intrigue to the ghost ship phenomenon. The hosts also discuss personal experiences with haunted ships and the unsettling nature of abandoned vessels. Overall, the episode combines storytelling, folklore, and real-life mysteries to captivate listeners with the haunting allure of ghost ships.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Guest: Kristen Newby
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. ©Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.

Jul 18, 2024
Jul 18, 2024
1hr 21 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 6 - Looking Through the Veil of Cults
Release Date: July 16, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner delve into the dark world of cults, examining their deceptive nature and profound impact on vulnerable individuals. They discuss notorious cults such as Jim Jones’s People’s Temple and the Heaven’s Gate religious movement, shedding light on the dangers of indoctrination and manipulation. Ed and Jacob explore the tactics used by cult leaders to control their followers and the tragic outcomes of mass suicides linked to these groups. The episode also highlights the prevalence of cults in society, often masquerading as legitimate religious organizations.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.

Jul 7, 2024
Jul 7, 2024
55 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 5 - Exploring Time Travel
Release Date: July 7, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner explore the intriguing topic of time travel, exploring concepts like time dilation, carbon dating, and the grandfather paradox. In a lively discussion about the complexities and possibilities of time travel, they touch on scientific theories and entertain conspiracy theories. The conversation also delves into social issues like LGBTQ+ rights and pronoun usage, showcasing a blend of intellectual discourse and personal reflections. The episode offers educational insights, thought-provoking discussions, and light-hearted moments.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.
Episode Notes:
Einstein's Theory of Relativity: This theory, particularly the special and general theories of relativity, provides the foundation for understanding time travel. It explains how time can slow down or speed up depending on the speed at which an object is moving or the strength of the gravitational field it is in.
Time Dilation: A consequence of Einstein's theory, time dilation occurs when time passes at different rates for observers in different frames of reference. For example, an astronaut traveling at near-light speed would age more slowly compared to someone on Earth.
The Twin Paradox: This thought experiment involves identical twins, one of whom travels into space at high speed while the other remains on Earth. Upon returning, the traveling twin would be younger than the one who stayed behind.
Wormholes: Theoretical passages through space-time that could create shortcuts for long journeys across the universe. If they exist, they might allow for time travel, although this remains speculative.
Quantum Mechanics: Some interpretations of quantum mechanics suggest the possibility of time travel on a very small scale, such as through quantum entanglement or closed timelike curves.
NASA's Experiments: NASA has conducted experiments that demonstrate time dilation, such as comparing the time on synchronized clocks, one on Earth and one on an airplane. The clock on the aircraft, moving at high speed, showed a slight difference, confirming time dilation.
Web Resources
BBC - Is time travel really possible?
NASA - Is Time Travel Possible?
Cambridge - Time Travel and Modern Physics
The Science of Time Travel
Exploring the Reality of Time Travel: Science Fact vs. Science Fiction
Video-Is Time Travel Possible In Our Universe?
Video-Is Time Travel Possible?

Jul 1, 2024
Jul 1, 2024
56 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 4 - The Magic of Tattoos
Release Date: June 26, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner welcome special guest Jaysin Jefferson, a tattoo artist who shared insights into the mystical art of tattoos. The conversation delved into Jason's journey in tattooing, his favorite horror movie, and personal anecdotes. Jaysin discussed the significance of tattoos in commemorating life events and the history of tattoos dating back to ancient times. The episode explored the use of tattoos for healing and magical purposes, shedding light on the diverse aspects of tattoo artistry and its cultural significance.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Special Guest: Jaysin Jefferson, Idle Hands Tattoo
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.
Jaysin Jefferson Facebook
Jaysin Jefferson Instagram
Idel Hands Tattoo Website
Idle Hands Tattoo-Knox Facebook
Idle Hands Instagram
Idle Hands Google +
Yantra Tattooing
Ancient Ink: Iceman Ötzi has the world's oldest tattoos
Ötzi, The Iceman
Ötzi, The Iceman Video

Jun 23, 2024
Jun 23, 2024
52 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 3 - The Body Farm
Release Date: June 19, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description:
In this episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron, hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner delve into the haunting secrets of the body farm, exploring the mysteries and legends surrounding the facility. They continue to celebrate Pride Month by discussing the power of being true to oneself through stories of courage and love and invite listeners to celebrate diversity, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.
Episode Notes:
Body Donation: https://fac.utk.edu/body-donation/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_Tennessee_Anthropological_Research_Facility
YouTube Video: What goes on behind the locked gates.
WBIR Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrTOFYm-xhY
Dr. Bill Bass: http://www.jeffersonbass.com/tour-the-body-farm.html

Jun 13, 2024
Jun 13, 2024
1hr 11 min
Episode Credits
Season 2 | Episode 2 - Pride Episode
Release Date: June 12, 2024
Website: Ravens Vail Podcast Network
Description: The episode of the Ravens Vail Cauldron featured hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner discussing the significance of Pride Month, inclusivity, personal stories, and the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Hosts Ed Bolden-Greer and Jacob Garner shared their personal experiences, reflections, and hopes for a more accepting and equal world. The conversation highlighted the importance of living authentically and supporting one another in the journey towards acceptance and understanding.
Written and Hosted by Ed Bolden-Greer
Co-Host by: Jacob A. Garner
Audio Engineering & Sound Design by Nick DeVan at Nicky D SoundProduced and edited by Jeryd Bolden-Greer
Podcast theme music: “The Brew” and background music “Nadira’s Theme,” written by Jeryd Bolden-Greer and performed by The Coven Squared.
Ravens Vail is a production of Small Raven Media. © Copyright 2024. All rights reserved All rights reserved.
Episode Notes

Ed Bolden-Greer
The creator of Ravens Vail Cauldron Podcast, Ed Bolden-Greer, has been called a Pollyanna and a sugarcoated idealist. He thinks of himself as more optimistic than that. He likes peanut butter and cheeseburgers! He’s the illegitimate love child of strategy and creativity. Unfortunately, neither admits to having him…
In his private life, he resides in Knoxville, Tennessee, with his husband, Jeryd, where he enjoys the role of father, son, brother, friend, writer, and social activist. His friends refer to him as an extrovert’s-extrovert and a geek all in the same breath, and he finds it flattering. Most people consider him well-traveled, well-read, well-educated, and well-spoken. One of his most extraordinary talents is binge-watching horror series, nerdy science, and quasi-science documentaries like Ancient Aliens or Planet Earth. He loves playing Dungeons and Dragons, riding his longboard, mindlessly watching TikTok, and sitting by a cozy bonfire telling ghost stories.
As a native of East Tennessee, he grew up in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, hearing all the old ghost stories spun about what some have called the most sinister and cursed land in the United States. From the macabre Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros to the chilling Alexander Inn in Oak Ridge, those stories began his life-long love affair with all things scary and haunted. Now it’s his time to spin some tales of his own. He’s been passionate about telling stories for over twenty-five years, moving me to create a podcast. He invites you to visit the world of Ravens Vail at one of his three podcasts: Ravens Vail Podcast, his dark fantasy horror anthology podcast; Ravens Vail Cauldron, his weekly talk show; and Ravens Vail Coven, a horror anthology podcast curated from stories submitted by the public.










