Horror isn’t just about fear—it’s about survival, transformation, and sometimes even healing. In this episode of Horror Heals, we explore the surprising ways horror can help us process trauma, navigate addiction recovery, and reclaim our power. Our guest is a writer, therapist, and PhD researcher who has dedicated their career to understanding how horror fiction, storytelling, and fandom provide a safe space for people to explore their own struggles.

From childhood weekends spent devouring Point Horror books to writing horror stories that unpack real-life trauma, we discuss why facing the darkness in fiction can be a powerful way to deal with the darkness in our own lives. Our guest shares how horror allows us to confront our fears in a controlled environment, whether it’s through books, films, or even creative writing.

The Monsters We Create to Heal the Ones Inside

This episode also dives into:

• The concept of bibliotherapy and how reading horror can be therapeutic
• Why writing horror stories can help process personal trauma and addiction
• The science behind why people feel relief and catharsis from watching horror
• The welcoming and supportive nature of the horror community
• How horror films and fiction help us face feelings of powerlessness, grief, and anxiety
• The real psychological benefits of engaging with horror, from building resilience to reclaiming control over personal fears

If you’ve ever wondered why horror movies and books provide comfort in times of struggle, or how storytelling can help with healing, this episode is for you.

Listen now and discover why horror heals.

In this colorful and deeply reflective episode, hosts Corey and Kendall welcome special guest Circus Envy, a celebrated clown persona from haunted attractions, conventions, and film. Circus Envy shares a profound journey that blends horror, cosplay, drag, therapy, and personal healing.

Circus Envy Reveals How Horror and Drag Saved His Life

Key Highlights:

• Origins of Circus Envy:
• Circus Envy details the inception of his iconic clown character, influenced by therapeutic advice to embrace the "trickster" archetype.
• Insights into how embodying a clown helped him confront and process deep-rooted personal trauma.
• Therapy and the Trickster Archetype:
• Circus Envy shares the transformative guidance received from his therapist, who introduced the powerful symbolism behind the trickster and clown characters.
• Discussion about how using clown imagery provided emotional release, personal empowerment, and therapeutic healing.
• Friendship with Amelia Kincaid:
• Circus Envy recounts his meaningful connection with Amelia Kincaid, famed horror actress and animal advocate, highlighting how their friendship influenced both their personal and professional lives.
• Exploration of meditation and guided visualization techniques learned through Amelia, underscoring the unexpected but powerful intersection between horror culture and mental wellness.
• Drag, Horror, and Community Healing:
• Circus Envy reflects on the vibrant intersections of horror, drag culture, and cosplay.
• Celebrating the legacy of drag icon Lily White, and the embracing reception she received at horror conventions, illustrating the healing and inclusive power of community.
• Identity, Shame, and Empowerment:
• Deep conversation on how Circus Envy's clown persona allowed him to safely explore and reclaim aspects of his identity previously shrouded in shame or stigma.
• Insights into using horror and cosplay intentionally for mental and emotional healing.
• Horror Conventions as Safe Spaces:
• Corey, Kendall, and Circus Envy discuss personal anecdotes and emotional revelations experienced at horror conventions.
• Celebrating how these conventions create judgment-free zones that encourage self-expression, curiosity, and connection.
• Collaborations and Inspirations:
• Circus Envy shares heartfelt memories of collaboration with horror legends such as Sid Haig, including his mother's creation of Haig's iconic Captain Spaulding costume.
• Reflecting on inspirations drawn from Karen Black, Dee Wallace, Rob Zombie, and other horror icons known for embracing vulnerability and authenticity.
• Future of Circus Envy:
• Circus Envy discusses plans for evolving his character and using cosplay with therapeutic intentions, aiming to support others on their healing journeys.
• Emphasis on shamanic traditions, sacred clowns, and cosplay as powerful tools for integrating fragmented aspects of self.

Reflective Insights:

• Corey, Kendall, and Circus Envy emphasize breaking stigmas around mental health through honest conversations within the horror community.
• Highlighting horror’s role as a profound, inclusive medium for personal growth, acceptance, and healing.

In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall sit down with Harrod Blank, the actor behind Rudy the Clown in the cult classic Killer Klowns from Outer Space. While Harrod may be known for his role in the iconic '80s horror film, his career and creativity stretch far beyond the big top. This episode explores the fascinating intersection of horror, art, and healing, featuring everything from clown tattoos to a 31-year-long documentary on Burning Man.

A Killer Klown Saved My Life

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Timeless Appeal of Killer Klowns:

• Harrod shares his theories on why Killer Klowns from Outer Space has continued to grow in popularity over the decades.
• The creativity and uniqueness of the Kyoto brothers' work and how it resonates with fans of all ages.
• The phenomenon of Killer Klowns becoming a symbol of individuality and rebellion.

2. Rudy the Clown: A Surprising Beacon of Hope:

• Harrod recounts stories of fans who found solace and inspiration in his character, Rudy.
• One particularly moving story involves a fan who said Rudy helped them through suicidal thoughts.
• The deep connection fans feel to the clowns and how the film offers a sense of permission to be themselves.

3. Beyond the Clown: Harrod’s Artistic Journey:

• Harrod’s work as a filmmaker and artist, including his Art Car World Museum in Arizona.
• His art car documentaries, Wild Wheels and Automorphosis, which explore the transformative power of creativity.
• His ongoing Burning Man documentary, a project 31 years in the making, capturing the evolution of art and self-expression at the legendary festival.

4. Creativity as Healing:

• How art cars and the horror community share a common theme of owning one’s identity.
• The therapeutic aspects of expressing oneself through creative projects, whether it’s a clown character or an art car.
• Harrod’s insight into how being creative, even in unusual ways, can offer healing and fulfillment.

Memorable Quote:

• "The movie gave me permission to be myself. That's pretty big." — Harrod Blank

Why You Should Listen:

If you've ever wondered how a movie as quirky as Killer Klowns from Outer Space could save a life, this episode offers that and more. Harrod Blank's stories demonstrate the profound and surprising ways that horror can offer hope, healing, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re a horror fan, a creative soul, or someone seeking comfort in unexpected places, this episode will leave you inspired.

In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey sits down with horror power couple Porsher and Elijah Black, whose passion for the genre goes far beyond just watching scary movies. From using cosplay as a tool for self-expression to founding Return of the Giving Dead, a charity-focused horror cosplay group, they share how horror has become a vital part of their healing journey.

Porsher opens up about her struggles with panic disorder, health anxiety, and depression, including how a deeply personal Instagram video documenting her experience resonated with the horror community. Elijah, a supportive partner and advocate, discusses what it’s like to be there for a loved one battling mental health challenges and how horror conventions and cosplay have given them both a sense of belonging.

They also discuss their incredible horror cosplays, including their legendary Creepshow and Return of the Living Dead poster recreations, and why they believe horror fans are some of the kindest and most generous people out there. Plus, they share their favorite final girl (or guy!) and why horror has been a refuge in tough times.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

🔪 Facing Fear Head-On: How Porsher’s anxiety and mental health struggles led to a transformative journey of healing and self-acceptance.

🧠 Horror as Therapy: Why watching horror films can actually help people process real-life anxieties and struggles.

🎭 The Power of Cosplay: How dressing as horror icons became an outlet for self-expression and confidence.

💀 Return of the Giving Dead: The origin of their horror-based charity group and how it’s making a difference.

🎃 Cosplay That Turns Heads: The inside story of their most jaw-dropping horror cosplays, including Creepshow, Return of the Living Dead, and more.

📢 Mental Health Awareness in the Horror Community: Why horror fans understand anxiety and depression better than most.

🔥 Final Person Picks: Who is the ultimate survivor? Porsher and Elijah weigh in!

Horror fans know that sometimes the scariest stories aren’t the ones on screen—they’re the ones life throws at us. For Brad Ewell, a DNA test set off a chain of events he never saw coming. What started as a search for answers led him to uncover a biological father he never knew existed—one who had been serving a life sentence for murder. But this story isn’t just about shocking revelations; it’s about healing, resilience, and the unexpected ways horror and art helped Brad navigate his journey.

The Horror of the Unknown and How It Became Therapy

In this Horror Heals bonus episode, Brad shares how horror became a touchstone during his most difficult moments. From watching slasher films with his half-brother to using art as a way to process emotions after a major surgery, horror has been a constant source of comfort and self-discovery. We also explore how Brad’s creative side—something he once ignored—turned out to be a deep-rooted part of his DNA.

This conversation is about transformation, connection, and the ways we find healing in the things we love—even if they involve masked killers and final girls.

Key Topics:

🖤 How horror helped Brad connect with his newfound half-brother

🎨 Using art as a tool for emotional healing after surgery

💀 The unexpected ways horror fans find solace in the macabre

🧬 Discovering a shared artistic talent with his biological father

🔪 Brad’s favorite horror films and how they influenced his journey

🎧 Press play and explore how horror heals in the most unexpected ways!

Check out the Family Twist Podcast!

Horror isn’t just about the monsters on screen—it’s about the people who watch them together. In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey sits down with four horror superfans—Leighann, Vinnie, Amber, and Steve—who didn’t just bond over their love of horror, they became family because of it.

What started as a shared appreciation for the films of Adam Green (Hatchet, Frozen) and Joe Lynch (Mayhem, Suitable Flesh) turned into something much bigger. From meeting in online live chats to surviving life’s hardest moments together, this group proves that horror isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about connection, resilience, and finding your people in the most unexpected places.

From Fans to Family – How Horror Brought Us Together

We dive into:

🔹 How Adam Green and Joe Lynch’s work inspired their love for horror

🔹 The Movie Crypt podcast as a lifeline during difficult times

🔹 How horror conventions became their meeting ground and second home

🔹 The emotional support and true friendships built through fandom

🔹 The power of horror storytelling in helping people process grief and trauma

🔹 Their favorite horror moments, conventions, and Final Girls

This is a story about love—love for horror, love for the community, and love for the people who stand by you in the dark and the light.

Why You Should Listen:

🎃 Ever felt like horror was your safe space?

🔪 Ever made friends over a shared love of slasher flicks?

🖤 Ever found comfort in a podcast, movie, or filmmaker when you needed it most?

Then this episode is for you.

Episode Highlights:

📍 [02:30] How each guest discovered Adam Green & Joe Lynch

📍 [10:15] Meeting at conventions and live podcast chats

📍 [18:45] How horror got them through loss, grief, and tough times

📍 [27:30] Their favorite horror conventions and why they keep going back

📍 [35:50] The Final Girl debate – who reigns supreme?

📍 [44:00] The joy of meeting horror heroes in person and what makes them different from other fandoms

📍 [52:20] What’s next for their horror-fueled friendship?

Join the Conversation:

👻 Who’s your horror family? We want to hear your story! Tag us @HorrorHealsPodcast on social media and let’s keep this spooky lovefest going.

🎧 Listen Now & Subscribe:

Find Horror Heals on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your screams—I mean, streams.

What if Jason Voorhees walked into your classroom—not to chase you, but to inspire you?

In this episode of Horror Heals, we sit down with James Stokes, an actor who has stepped into the legendary hockey mask of Jason Voorhees in multiple fan films. But James isn't just about slashing his way through Crystal Lake—he's using his platform to fight bullying and inspire young people to take control of their futures.

How Jason Voorhees Became an Anti-Bullying Icon

James shares:

🩸 His deep love for Friday the 13th and what it’s like playing Jason in fan films

🩸 The importance of body language in bringing horror icons to life

🩸 How horror conventions create a safe, welcoming space for outsiders

🩸 His powerful work as an anti-bullying advocate—and why Jason is the perfect messenger

🩸 A heart-wrenching story about a fan whose life was changed through horror

This conversation is proof that horror is more than just scares—it’s a lifeline. Tune in for an episode packed with inspiration, horror history, and the unexpected power of Jason Voorhees.

Corey and Kendall are back with part two of DonnaJean’s jaw-dropping journey, and trust us—this is an episode you can’t miss. From laughing (and maybe crying) over celebrity encounters with horror icons like Matthew Lillard, Dee Wallace, and Kane Hodder, to her inspiring work helping others in need, DonnaJean shares the kind of stories that’ll leave you cheering—and maybe Googling tickets to the next Monster-Mania. Oh, and there’s some breaking news about her recent health scare that will make your heart do a happy dance.

Blood, Sweat, and a Whole Lot of Horror Love

Episode Highlights:

• The Matthew Lillard Experience: DonnaJean describes watching him step away from his table to hug fans, chat like an old friend, and radiate genuine kindness. Spoiler alert: He’s as cool as you hoped.
• Horror Legends with Heart: From sharing hugs with Kane Hodder to chatting with Dee Wallace about the love she gives (and receives) from fans, DonnaJean offers a front-row view of what makes these icons unforgettable.
• Community Building, One Line at a Time: Whether it’s calming an anxious fan, offering a listening ear, or making a new friend, DonnaJean talks about how she’s turned the chaos of conventions into a welcoming haven.
• Health Scares and Silver Linings: DonnaJean opens up about her recent medical uncertainty, what it’s like to face those moments with humor and grit, and why she’s still here to share these stories (spoiler: it’s good news!).

Why This Episode Will Stick With You:

This isn’t just another podcast episode—it’s a heartfelt rollercoaster with laughs, life lessons, and a reminder that even when things get tough, there’s still joy to be found in the little (and spooky) things. DonnaJean’s story will inspire you to show up for others, embrace your passions, and maybe even rock a VIP badge at your next convention.

Corey and Kendall are joined by DonnaJean, a remarkable individual whose journey through life’s most challenging moments has made her a cornerstone of the horror community. From surviving personal trauma and overcoming addiction to finding joy and purpose at Monster Mania and other conventions, DonnaJean’s story is a testament to resilience, healing, and the unique power of horror to bring people together.

Surviving Life’s Scariest Moments

Episode Highlights:

The Beginnings of a Fandom: DonnaJean shares how her love for fandom began with Star Trek conventions in her youth, long before she discovered the world of horror cons. Her first Monster Mania, attended with her daughter during art school, marked the start of a life-changing journey into the horror community.

Triumph Over Adversity: Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age four, DonnaJean candidly opens up about her lifelong battle with health challenges, including lung cancer, a near-fatal colon condition, and surviving a coma. She also discusses overcoming addiction after recognizing the toll it was taking on her life and relationships.

Horror as Healing: DonnaJean explains how horror conventions have been a source of comfort, healing, and connection. As a VIP volunteer at Monster Mania, she’s formed lasting friendships with both attendees and horror icons, becoming a trusted and beloved figure in the community.

Shared Vulnerabilities and Connections: DonnaJean’s authenticity shines as she talks about the monsters within and without—the internal battles and external struggles we all face. She shares her difficulty watching home invasion films, tying it to her personal history, and connects with Corey and Kendall over shared experiences of loss and trauma.

Cherished Moments with Horror Icons: From heartfelt conversations with Kane Hodder to unforgettable interactions with Felissa Rose and Linnea Quigley, DonnaJean shares some of her most memorable convention moments. Her ability to forge genuine connections with horror legends is both inspiring and heartwarming.

The Gift of Giving Back: DonnaJean reflects on how volunteering at Monster Mania has allowed her to give back to the community that has given her so much. Whether helping fans skip the line to meet their heroes or simply being a comforting presence, she has become a source of strength and encouragement for others.

Key Quotes:

“Everything that's happened to me has given me a gift—that I can sit across from someone and say, ‘I understand, and you can be okay.’”

“Horror conventions are more than events; they’re where I found family, where I felt at home, and where I could heal.”

“The horror community isn’t just about scares—it’s about connection, shared experiences, and finding strength in the stories we tell.”

Why You Should Listen:

DonnaJean’s story is a powerful reminder that the horror community is more than a fandom—it’s a family. Her courage, warmth, and resilience offer a unique perspective on how horror can serve as a source of healing and connection. Whether you’re a long-time convention-goer or new to the scene, this episode will resonate deeply with anyone who has found solace and strength through shared passions.

What’s Next:

This is just part one of DonnaJean’s incredible journey. Be sure to tune in for part two, where she delves deeper into her unforgettable convention moments, the lessons she’s learned about healing, and the profound impact of the horror community on her life.

Call to Action:

Join the Conversation: Have you found healing or connection through horror? Share your story with us on social media or in the comments.

Connect with DonnaJean: Look for her at the VIP table at Monster Mania or say hello at your next convention!

Subscribe for Part Two: Don’t miss the continuation of DonnaJean’s...

In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall sit down with filmmaker Mary Beth McAndrews to discuss her bold new take on the rape-revenge genre with her upcoming film, Bystanders. Hear how Mary Beth redefines the genre by omitting exploitative tropes and focusing on empowerment, resilience, and turning trauma into triumph.

Discover how horror became a lifeline for Mary Beth, helping her navigate PTSD, OCD, and her journey as a sexual assault survivor. Learn how her love of the macabre turned into a passion for storytelling, community building, and creating transformative art that inspires healing.

From behind-the-scenes stories to her inspirations in horror cinema, this episode dives deep into the intersection of horror and mental wellness. Plus, Mary Beth shares her thoughts on horror conventions, her favorite final girl, and why the genre remains a vital tool for understanding and growth.

Highlights:

• The making of Bystanders: A new take on the rape-revenge story
• How horror empowers survivors and fosters healing
• Mary Beth’s journey as a filmmaker and survivor
• The welcoming community of horror conventions
• Why Jess from Black Christmas is the ultimate final girl

Whether you’re a fan of horror or someone searching for stories of resilience, this episode offers a glimpse into how the darkest stories can shine the brightest light.

Listen now and find out why horror heals.