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The Horror Heals Podcast

  • Podcast
  • TV & Film
  • 85 Episodes
  • Since 2024

Episodes

Ep 24

From Shy Kid to Eisner Nominee: The Healing Power of Monsters

25 min | Nov 21, 2024

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In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall welcome Eisner Award-nominated horror comic book writer Jim Ousley. From his love of Universal monster movies to creating stories that tackle societal issues, Jim takes us on a journey through his lifelong connection to horror, comics, and the creative process. The episode explores the intersection of horror, healing, and humor, with anecdotes from Jim and Corey’s time in a sketch comedy troupe, insights into the dynamics of horror conventions, and the profound impact of art on personal and societal healing.

From Shy Kid to Eisner Nominee: The Healing Power of Monsters

Jim also teases his upcoming appearances at the Days of the Dead Horror Convention in Chicago, where he’ll be showcasing Butcher Queen Vol. 2 - Planet of the Dead. Plus, Corey reminisces about Jim’s unforgettable performance in the comedy sketch Bye-sie Bye!

Key Themes and Topics:

The Early Days of Horror Love:

  • Jim’s childhood fascination with classic Universal monster movies.
  • How the themes of being an “odd man out” resonated with his own experiences of shyness and bullying.
  • The role of horror as a gateway to kinship and self-discovery.

Horror and Community:

  • The camaraderie and acceptance found at horror conventions.
  • The difference between fandom in-person versus online spaces.
  • Why conventions are a safe space where cultural divides and prejudices disappear.

Comedy Meets Horror:

  • Corey and Jim’s time in the Non-Prophets comedy troupe and the hilarious sketch Bye-sie Bye!
  • The shared DNA of horror and comedy—both thrive on timing, tension, and emotional release.

Creating Stories That Matter:

  • Jim’s journey from lyricist and music writer to horror comic book creator.
  • How projects like The Atonement Bell reflect his personal experiences with societal and cultural divides in St. Louis.
  • The importance of balancing fun and social commentary in horror stories.

Upcoming Work and Convention Appearance:

  • Jim teases a new comic project inspired by family dynamics and memories of his mother.
  • His excitement for showcasing Butcher Queen Vol. 2 at the Days of the Dead Convention in Chicago.

The Power of Art in Healing:

  • How creativity can illuminate societal issues and foster understanding.
  • Jim’s perspective on using horror to process pain, connect with others, and inspire change.

Why Should You Tune In?

This episode dives deep into the healing potential of horror and the magic of fandoms, offering relatable and heartfelt insights for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Whether you're a horror enthusiast, a comic book fan, or simply someone who finds comfort in creative expression, Jim’s story will resonate. Plus, his behind-the-scenes look at crafting horror comics and navigating conventions is a treat for fans of the genre.

Jim’s personal anecdotes and thought-provoking reflections make this a must-listen. Stick around for Corey’s and Jim’s nostalgic comedy memories, Kendall’s heartfelt observations, and Jim’s pick for an underrated final girl: Jess from Black Christmas!

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.

Ep 23

From Vagina Monsters to Vampires: Hailey Piper’s Horror Healing Journey

27 min | Nov 19, 2024

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In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall sit down with Bram Stoker Award-winning novelist Hailey Piper to explore the transformative power of horror. Hailey delves into how horror helps us process despair, build emotional resilience, and find catharsis. She discusses her latest novel, All the Hearts You Eat, a haunting tale of ghosts, vampires, and dark secrets set in a small Massachusetts town. The conversation spans her love of monsters, the creative process, and why queer representation in horror matters.

Listeners will also get an inside look at her viral novel Queen of Teeth and the surprising reactions it’s garnered—from sheer terror to unexpected sweetness. Don’t miss her thoughts on why Kirsty from Hellraiser is the ultimate final girl, the impact of horror on mental health, and what’s next for this rising star of the genre.

From Vagina Monsters to Vampires: Hailey Piper’s Horror Healing Journey

Highlights:

•00:06 – Hailey Piper introduces herself and discusses the emotional depth of horror.

•03:17 – The catharsis of despair and hope in horror stories.

•08:55 – Monsters as metaphors for feeling like an outsider.

•15:48 – The delicate balance of adapting books into films.

•27:51 – Hailey’s viral hit Queen of Teeth and its blend of horror, humor, and romance.

•30:56 – Hailey’s favorite final girl and why Kirsty from Hellraiser takes the crown.

Links:

•Hailey Piper’s Website

•All the Hearts You Eat – Purchase Now

•Follow Hailey Piper on Instagram

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.

Ep 22

Meet the Artist Behind Horror’s Creepiest Dolls

23 min | Nov 14, 2024

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In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall welcome Catherine Bonetti, the artist behind Devil Eyed Dumplings, whose passion for horror and craft merges into eerily beautiful creations. Catherine shares her journey into horror art, tracing her fascination back to her family’s history in costume design for Hollywood classics. From family lore to her own creative expressions, Catherine dives into how her horror-inspired dolls have become both an outlet for her emotions and a connection to her community.

Topics Covered:

  • Catherine’s family history in Hollywood costume design and its influence on her horror interest
  • The evolution of Devil Eyed Dumplings and how it began with a Halloween costume idea
  • The therapeutic aspect of creating horror art and how it helps with her social anxiety
  • Challenges of sharing a “creepy” hobby in a world that doesn’t always understand horror fans
  • Collecting dolls from estate sales and rehoming them with horror makeovers
  • Memorable fan reactions, stories of haunted dolls, and interactions at horror conventions
  • Catherine’s charitable side, with raffle dolls benefiting children’s literacy programs
  • Her dream to meet Robert the Doll, and reflections on her favorite horror movies and final girls

Notable Quotes:

  • "When I paint these dolls, it feels good. It’s my anxiety finding a home outside of me."
  • "You find your people in the horror community, and suddenly, you’re not so weird anymore."
  • "There’s something so creepy and cathartic about creating something beautiful out of something horrific."

Follow Catherine Bonetti on IG

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.

Ep 21

Death Comes Lifting is Where Horror Meets Health

34 min | Nov 12, 2024

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In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall dive into a conversation with Zak from Death Comes Lifting – a one-of-a-kind gym that combines horror, punk rock, and heavy metal with fitness and mental wellness. Zak’s mission? To create a judgment-free space where horror fans, metalheads, and self-proclaimed misfits can feel comfortable, get fit, and take charge of their mental health. From sharing stories of transformations to the reasons behind his fitness journey, Zak explains how physical wellness impacts mental wellness and why Death Comes Lifting has become a safe haven for the 'Lifting Dead Army' – his community of horror-loving gym members.

Death Comes Lifting is Where Horror Meets Health

Death Comes Lifting's Mission: Death Comes Lifting is a multimedia health & wellness universe that creates original clothing, content, podcasts, playlists, monsters, music, motivation, workouts, and weirdness in order to foster & serve a community in which physical, mental, and spiritual well-being can Lift alongside the the strange & deranged. We are Fitness For The Misfits. Welcome to The Lifting Dead Army.

“Death Comes Lifting: The Gym Built for Horror Fans – You Can’t Skip This!”

  • Zak shares the origins of Death Comes Lifting, starting from its humble beginnings as a clothing brand for horror cons to its evolution into a fully functional gym.
  • Discover how Zak’s journey to fitness grew out of his love for horror culture and his desire to help others, especially those who never felt at home in traditional fitness spaces.

“Why Horror and Fitness Go Hand-in-Hand – Don’t Miss This Perspective!”

  • Zak explains his philosophy: taking care of your physical health has a powerful impact on mental wellness, and vice versa.
  • We explore how he’s challenging the stereotype that horror fans don’t care about health – in fact, he’s showing that you can embrace the macabre and still be physically and mentally strong.

“A Horror Gym Community Unlike Any Other: The Lifting Dead Army”

  • Zak’s 'Lifting Dead Army' isn’t just about lifting weights – it’s about lifting spirits. He shares stories of members who’ve transformed, including a friend who lost 100 pounds and reclaimed his health.
  • For Zak, success isn’t just opening a gym; it’s creating a community where horror fans can support one another, get healthier, and feel like they belong.

“Breaking the Stigma: Fitness for Horror Fans is Hardcore – And Here’s Why You’ll Love It”

  • Zak discusses the stigma surrounding fitness and horror fans, the stereotypes of “douchebag gym bros,” and why he’s dedicated to showing his community that fitness can be for everyone.
  • Hear how he brings humor, horror culture, and authenticity to fitness, proving that being healthy doesn’t mean giving up on the things you love – it just means finding a balance that works for you.

“Virtual Training with a Twist: The ‘Lifting Dead Army’ Goes Digital!”

  • Learn how Zak turned the challenges of the pandemic into an opportunity to connect with his community through virtual

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.

Ep 20

Debbie Rochon: Embracing Horror and Aging Gracefully in the Troma Universe

27 min | Nov 7, 2024

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In the second half of our conversation with horror icon Debbie Rochon, Corey and Kendall Stulce dive into Debbie’s storied career with Troma Entertainment and her collaborations with the legendary Lloyd Kaufman. Debbie shares fascinating anecdotes from her work in the '90s with Troma, starting with her early roles, promotional events, and her journey from quirky cameos to memorable lead roles. She highlights the absurdist and extreme style unique to Troma films, touching on the challenges and joy of balancing realism with over-the-top horror comedy.

Debbie Rochon: Embracing Horror and Aging Gracefully in the Troma Universe

Debbie discusses her latest project, The Power of Positive Murder, a noir film by Lloyd that is strikingly different from past Troma works. Filmed in black and white, this movie blends Troma’s trademark outrageousness with a stunning classic aesthetic that has pushed the limits of her acting. Debbie opens up about the special message she received from Lloyd—a heartfelt acknowledgment of her role—that she describes as one of the most meaningful gestures in her decades-long career.

The discussion moves into the age-positive culture within the horror community, which Debbie appreciates for its openness to actors of all ages. Corey and Kendall reflect on how horror fans embrace beloved actors regardless of age, pointing to icons like Kathy Bates and Betsy Palmer as inspirations. Debbie talks about Model Hunger, a film that celebrates older actresses and showcases their depth and intensity, something she feels the horror genre uniquely supports.

Debbie also reflects on her multi-faceted career: acting, directing, writing, and even experimenting with practical effects and bloodwork on set. Her advice for up-and-coming actors is to embrace versatility, explore different aspects of the industry, and maintain a healthy ego for longevity.

Key Topics Covered:

  • History with Troma and Lloyd Kaufman
  • Debbie’s journey with Troma began in 1992, where she started by doing promotional artwork for VHS releases. She recalls filming early projects like Tromeo and Juliet, and participating in international cable bumpers that gave Troma worldwide exposure. Debbie fondly recounts the absurd antics of Troma’s early years, including her recent role in The Power of Positive Murder and the unique challenge of shooting in noir style.
  • The Power of Positive Murder
  • Debbie describes this new film as a bold, genre-defying Troma movie that combines outrageous comedy with noir elegance. With a stunning visual homage to classic cinema, Debbie explains how each department—lighting, makeup, and art—elevated the project, creating a one-of-a-kind horror experience.
  • Age Inclusivity in Horror
  • Debbie and the hosts discuss the supportive and age-inclusive nature of horror fandom, which she deeply values. Horror fans are loyal to their favorite actors, celebrating them well into their later years. She praises the community’s willingness to champion veteran actors like Kathy Bates, Lynn Lowry, and Jessica Lange, whose performances often gain depth with age.
  • Career Longevity in Horror
  • Debbie’s advice to younger actors is

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.

Ep 19

Blood, Guts, and Resilience: Debbie Rochon on Healing Through Horror

25 min | Nov 5, 2024

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In this unforgettable episode of Horror Heals, Corey dives deep into the life and career of horror icon Debbie Rochon. Known for her legendary roles in horror, Debbie opens up about her real-life horror story—an on-set accident with a prop machete that nearly severed four fingers on her right hand. Through extensive surgeries, physical therapy, and sheer determination, Debbie managed to regain partial use of her hand, embodying resilience both on and off the screen.

But that’s just the beginning. Corey also explores Debbie’s relationships with other horror icons like Brinke Stevens, Joe Spinell, and Will Keenan, who recently faced a devastating attack for wearing a COVID mask, resulting in permanent blindness in one eye. As we learn from Debbie’s experiences, horror isn’t just about scares; it’s about community, resilience, and healing.

In this first part of a two-part episode, Debbie reveals the strength it takes to keep going in the face of real-life terror, what it’s like to recover from trauma, and how horror has been her anchor through it all.

Blood, Guts, and Resilience: Debbie Rochon on Healing Through Horror

Key Episode Highlights:

  • The Real-Life Horror of Debbie Rochon’s Machete Accident: Discover how a prop accident nearly cost Debbie four fingers and the incredible recovery journey that followed.
  • Behind the Scenes with Horror Icons: Debbie shares stories about her friendships and experiences with legends like Brinke Stevens and Joe Spinell, offering an inside look into the horror industry’s close-knit community.
  • Will Keenan’s Real-World Horror: Learn about Will’s recent attack and the community’s support—a powerful reminder that horror fans and creators rally together both on and off the screen.
  • Why Horror Isn’t Just for Scares: Debbie explains how horror has been a source of healing, helping her and countless others process trauma, confront fears, and find a place in the community.
  • The Emotional Side of Recovery: Beyond the physical scars, Debbie discusses the emotional healing process after her injury and how horror provided an outlet and a way to cope.

Episode Takeaways:

  • Horror can be a powerful tool for healing, offering ways to process trauma, confront fear, and find community.
  • Even the toughest among us, like Debbie Rochon, face real-world challenges and discover strength in the horror community.
  • The horror industry’s support network is strong and real, standing behind creators and fans alike in times of crisis.

Subscribe so you never miss an episode and get exclusive stories from the icons of horror straight to your playlist.

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.

Ep 18

Generations of Scares and Smiles: Monster-Mania's Lasting Legacy

18 min | Oct 30, 2024

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In this continuation of Horror Heals, Corey and Dave dive deeper into the Monster-Mania community—unpacking the heart and soul behind the horror convention scene. Dave shares his approach to fostering a family-like atmosphere, highlighting how the Monster Mania team creates a space where horror fans, introverts, and everyone in between feel at home. From the staff’s commitment to helping attendees feel comfortable, to the incredible volunteer network, and to Dave’s personal stories of creating a convention legacy that spans generations, this episode unveils the true power of horror to heal, connect, and leave a lasting impact.

Generations of Scares and Smiles: Monster-Mania's Lasting Legacy

pisode Highlights

  • Building the Monster-Mania Family
  • Dave discusses the philosophy behind recruiting and nurturing his volunteer staff, creating a safe, welcoming space for both staff and attendees alike.
  • A Supportive Community Beyond the Scares
  • From staff members recovering from hardships to attendees with personal connections to horror, Monster-Mania has become a family-like support system where everyone is welcomed and understood.
  • Generations of Fans and Families
  • With fans who have attended for years, some even bringing their own children now, Monster Mania has become a treasured tradition passed down through generations.
  • The Legacy of Horror and Wellness
  • Reflecting on the power of horror conventions to provide relief and reduce anxiety, Dave and Corey discuss how Monster-Mania has impacted fans and given horror lovers a place to belong.
  • Desert Island Horror Flicks and Final Girls
  • Dave shares his favorite horror films, his love for the character Nancy Thompson from A Nightmare on Elm Street, and the impact of the Exorcist films on his life.

Experience Monster-Mania for Yourself!

Don’t miss out on the chance to see why fans come back year after year. Book your spot for the next Monster-Mania and join the family!

Key Takeaways

  • The Power of Kindness
  • Dave emphasizes the importance of creating a positive, supportive environment at Monster-Mania, and how kindness can transform the convention experience.
  • Monster-Mania: A Family Legacy
  • With multiple generations attending together, Monster-Mania has become more than just an event; it’s a cherished family tradition.
  • Creating Lasting Connections
  • From helping staff members through difficult times to fans forming lifelong friendships, Monster-Mania proves that horror can truly heal and connect people.

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.

Ep 17

How Monster-Mania Makes Horror a Safe Haven

20 min | Oct 29, 2024

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In this exciting episode of Horror Heals, Corey Stulce dives deep with the legendary Dave Hagan, founder of the iconic Monster-Mania convention—a haven for horror fans worldwide. From heartfelt memories of watching double-feature horror films with his father, to the humble origins and incredible growth of Monster-Mania, Dave shares what makes this convention uniquely personal and enduring. Monster-Mania isn’t just a con; it’s a tribute to Dave’s late father, a sanctuary for horror enthusiasts, and a place where fans become family.

How Monster-Mania Makes Horror a Safe Haven

A Dedication to Family

Dave Hagan shares how Monster-Mania is a lifelong tribute to his father, whose love for horror films inspired Dave to create a space where fans feel seen, understood, and embraced.

Creating a Horror Haven

Hear how Dave’s introverted personality shaped Monster-Mania's welcoming vibe, making it a space for introverts and horror lovers to connect without judgment.

From Fandom to Family

Corey and Dave bond over the transformative power of horror conventions, with Corey sharing personal moments from attending Monster-Mania that inspired the Horror Heals podcast.

Epic Fan Moments

From falling off the stage to a fire marshal’s intervention, Dave reveals behind-the-scenes chaos and how fans turned even the wildest moments into cherished memories.

Monster Mania’s Unlikely Love Stories

The convention has sparked countless friendships, relationships, and unforgettable memories among horror lovers.

Notable Quotes

Dave Hagan: “The shows have always been and always will be a dedication to my dad… Sundays in a movie theater with him were as close to heaven as I could get.”
Corey Stulce: “Horror movies are something that Kendall and I first bonded over when we started dating, like this mutual love of horror…finding kinship with those characters because they’re outsiders, just like us.”

Key Takeaways

  • The Power of Community
  • Monster Mania isn’t just a horror convention—it’s a welcoming, accepting space for those who may feel out of place elsewhere. Dave shares stories that show how horror unites people.
  • Mental Wellness Through Horror
  • Corey and Dave discuss the unspoken bond horror fans share, particularly for those who identify as introverts or feel like outsiders in other spaces. This convention and genre offer a comforting community where everyone belongs.
  • Legacy in Every Detail
  • Dave’s fatherly dedication shows in every Monster Mania detail. From hosting costume contests to mingling with fans, he has turned Monster Mania into a true community celebration.


Don’t Miss Out on the Next Part of Dave Hagan’s Story

Curious about what it takes to keep the horror community alive and thriving? Join us next time as Dave shares the ongoing evolution of Monster Mania and how they keep fans coming back year after yea

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.

Ep 16

Using Horror to Escape Bullies and Build a Writing Career

26 min | Oct 24, 2024

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In this episode of Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall sit down with an emerging horror author, Dacre Black, who knows all about turning real-life trauma into terrifying tales. Growing up, Dacre faced relentless bullying, but instead of letting that define him, he found healing in both martial arts and writing. His mother gave him powerful advice that would shape his future: "If the world isn’t treating you right, create your own reality." This became the foundation of his career as a horror writer.

Dacre is now the author of the Afterlife series, blending '80s nostalgia with supernatural suspense in books like The Campground, which is now available. We discuss how his experiences with bullying, the therapeutic value of martial arts, and his love for horror movies from the '80s all played a key role in crafting his unique writing style.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the intersection of horror, healing, and the creative process.

Key Themes Discussed:

Using Horror to Heal:

  • The episode starts with our guest’s backstory—how bullying throughout his childhood led him to seek escape and healing through creative outlets.
  • His mother’s advice to “create your own reality” was pivotal. Writing became a way to escape the harshness of reality and to build a world where he could have control over the narrative.
  • How horror became a tool not just for escape, but for processing his emotions and finding strength.

From Bullying to Martial Arts:

  • Alongside writing, our guest took up martial arts, specifically Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, as a means of self-defense and building confidence.
  • He discusses how martial arts helped him rebuild his self-esteem after years of bullying and gave him the tools to physically and mentally defend himself.
  • Martial arts continues to play a role in his life today, influencing both his personal growth and his writing style, as his characters often display the same resilience and strength.

The Power of His Mother’s Words:

  • A powerful moment of the episode highlights the advice his mother gave him during those tough years of being bullied. By encouraging him to write, she helped him find a way to channel his pain into something creative and healing.
  • He shares how this advice has stayed with him throughout his life and career, becoming the foundation of his work as a horror author.

The Birth of the Afterlife Series:

  • His Afterlife series was born out of his love for 80s horror movies, paranormal stories, and his personal experiences. The 80s setting, with its absence of modern technology, heightens the suspense, making his characters rely more on their instincts than on gadgets.
  • He talks about the development of his latest book, The Campground, which blends haunted campgrounds with paranormal thrills, all tied together by that classic 80s vibe.
  • We also get a sneak peek into his upcoming books and plans for the series, which will eventually span 13 novels.

Horror as Therapy:

  • The episode touches on the Horror Heals theme as our guest reflects

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.

Ep 15

Teaching Kids to Face Fear: A Horror-Based Approach to Parenting and Anxiety

24 min | Oct 22, 2024

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Welcome back to Horror Heals for part two of our conversation with the one and only Audrey Rose! In this episode, we go even deeper into how horror impacts not just mental wellness but parenting and teaching. Audrey—a self-described “weird” art teacher—shares how she uses horror films to teach her kids and students valuable life lessons, all while managing her own anxiety and depression.

Teaching Kids to Face Fear

Episode Highlights:

  • Parenting with a Horror Twist: Audrey shares how she introduced her son to horror, beginning with Jurassic Park, Aliens, and later Friday the 13th. She opens up about explaining horror characters to her children—like Jason Voorhees—and how these tragic figures can help them understand emotions.
  • Life Lessons Hidden in Horror: Audrey uses iconic horror films to teach real-world lessons, like Pet Sematary’s “Don’t talk to strangers” and American Werewolf in London’s “Stick to the path.” Who knew horror could be the ultimate parenting tool?
  • Mental Health Through Horror: Audrey discusses how horror movies, like A Nightmare on Elm Street, help her cope with anxiety and depression. The cathartic effect of watching Nancy triumph over Freddy mirrors her own journey through mental illness, making horror a source of strength.
  • Final Girl Faves: We dive into Audrey’s love for Jamie Lee Curtis and her iconic portrayal of Laurie Strode from Halloween. Audrey talks about the importance of strong, resilient female characters in horror and why Laurie is her ultimate Final Girl.
  • Rocky Horror & Real Talk: Audrey is preparing to show her 13-year-old autistic son Rocky Horror Picture Show, wanting to normalize conversations around sexuality while enjoying the genre they both love. Parenting through horror and musicals? Count us in!
  • The Power of Horror Conventions: Audrey talks about attending horror conventions and how being surrounded by her “people” lifted her spirits during tough times. She reflects on how horror events provide a safe, welcoming space for fans to connect and heal.

Key Takeaways:

  • Using Horror to Teach: Audrey’s style of parenting and teaching is all about turning horror into learning moments—whether it's helping her kids understand complex emotions through Friday the 13th or using American Werewolf in London to instill real-world safety tips.
  • Mental Wellness & Monsters: For Audrey, horror is more than entertainment. It’s a lifeline during dark times, offering her a way to confront her anxieties and fears while giving her strength to push through.
  • Parenting Through Horror: Audrey believes parents do their kids a service by introducing them to horror in a thoughtful way. Watching horror together has opened doors for deeper discussions about fear, emotions, and even complex topics like sexuality.

Audrey Rose on Instagram

Memorable Quotes:

  • "Ther

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.

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