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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.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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!

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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!

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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:

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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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.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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In this spellbinding episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall dive into the transformative journey of actor, Nate Gaik, who found empowerment and healing through the magic of horror. From a challenging childhood to embodying an 18th-century witch in the indie film "Hunting for the Hag," this episode is all about defying the gravity of trauma and finding strength in the most unexpected places.

Son of a Witch Is Defying Gravity

Hear how Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch of the West sparked a lifelong fascination with witches, providing inspiration and escape during dark times. Learn how playing a witch on-screen became a powerful moment of reclaiming control and self-expression. Plus, explore how the horror genre fosters community, creativity, and connection for even the most introverted among us.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Growing up with challenges and finding refuge in movies.
• The influence of "The Wizard of Oz" and the Wicked Witch’s enduring legacy.
• Behind-the-scenes stories from Hunting for the Hag, including prosthetic adventures and cornfield chaos.
• The therapeutic power of horror to foster connection and self-discovery.
• Favorite horror icons, from Jamie Lee Curtis to Lauren LaVera and beyond.

Watch Now:

Stream Hunting for the Hag on Tubi.

Connect with Us:

Follow the guest on Instagram: @tallactorboy

Share your favorite final person in horror with us on social media!

Closing Message:

If you’ve ever felt trapped or misunderstood, this episode is your reminder that defying gravity is possible—and sometimes, it starts with a little bit of witchcraft and horror.

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

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Episode Overview:

In part two of our conversation with the Spooky Twins, things get hilariously spooky as we dive into their adventures in cosplay, their love for horror cult classics, and some heated debates about what truly qualifies as horror. From The Thing to Blood Dolls, the twins share their unfiltered takes, proving once again that horror can be as silly as it is scary.

The Great Horror Debate with the Spooky Twins

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

🎭 Cosplay Creations:

The Spooky Twins reveal their current cosplay projects, including a mashup of Animal Crossing characters Red and Tom Nook.

Hear about their memorable Us-inspired cosplay featuring the iconic red jumpsuit and golden scissors.

🎮 Gaming & Horror Lore:

Tonia admits she doesn’t play first-person games like Outlast or Fallout but gets all the juicy lore from Tonie, who loves diving into these creepy worlds.

Corey and Kendall share their struggles with gaming and how kids these days are introducing them to gamer culture.

🏆 Favorite Final Characters:

Tonia passionately defends R.J. MacReady (The Thing) as her ultimate “final person,” sharing a theory about the film’s iconic ending.

Tonie chooses Sally Hardesty (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), praising her grit and the importance of keeping horror alive through remakes and reimaginings.

🎥 The Horror Debate:

Is Gremlins a horror movie or a Christmas movie? Kendall stirs the pot with his controversial take, and the group dives into the nuances of horror-comedy.

The twins defend remakes and reboots, comparing them to cover songs and emphasizing the joy of keeping horror relevant.

🍕 Horror is Like Pizza:

Tonia drops a gem of wisdom: “Horror is like pizza—whether it’s gourmet or cafeteria quality, you’ll still eat it!”

🎞️ Cult Classics and Obscurities:

The twins introduce Corey and Kendall to hidden gems like Blood Dolls, raving about its bizarre mix of puppets, clowns, and a girl band in a cage.

They also reminisce about Full Moon Features classics like Puppet Master and Demonic Toys.

📽️ The Magic of Horror Conventions:

Tonia and Tonie discuss the creativity and community they experience at cons, making it clear why horror fans are some of the most welcoming people around.

Highlights:

The Gremlins debate: Is it horror, Christmas, or both?

Why The Thing is a masterpiece with no romance to distract from its monstrous paranoia.

Tonia’s passionate defense of Sally Hardesty and the beauty of horror remakes.

A deep dive into cult classics, from Blood Dolls to Phantasm.

Memorable Quotes:

“Horror is pizza—you’re going to eat it no matter what!”

“The Thing doesn’t have romance, girlfriends, or tension—it’s just pure monster paranoia, and that’s why it’s perfect.”

“We can cover songs, so why can’t we cover movies?”

Core Themes:

Horror as Community: Whether it’s cosplay, gaming, or conventions, horror unites people across creative and cultural boundaries.

Embracing Nostalgia: From 80s classics to Full Moon Features, the twins celebrate the beauty of revisiting and reviving old favorites.

Redefining Horror: Debating genres and blurring lines between horror, comedy, and everything in between.

The F

Thank you for listening to Horror Heals. 

Share the show with someone who loves horror and someone who needs a little healing.

If you want to support our guests, check the show notes for links to their work, conventions, and fundraising pages.

You can also listen to our sister podcast Family Twist, a show about DNA surprises, identity, and the families we find along the way.

Horror Heals is produced by How the Cow Ate the Cabbage LLC.

Is horror good for mental wellness? Of corpse it is.