Hello everyone! I’m Rae-Claire, TARRA’s Marketing Manager, and I’m excited to officially introduce myself as the new face behind Brain Food—taking over from Kate Bailey (insert nervous emoji here). I can’t wait to share all the fun things I’ve discovered this month for us to read, listen to, experience, and more. Thanks for joining me on this journey!

Have a topic you’d like us to cover? We’re all ears! Drop your ideas, and let’s keep the conversation flowing.

I opened the TARRA offices this morning (Oct. 2) fully embracing the crisp “fallness” in the air—the season is knocking at the door, and I’m ready! But, as if summer doesn’t know when to let go, it stages a comeback by afternoon, lingering like that ex who just can’t take a hint.

But hey, I’m all for the whisper of a new season! It’s the perfect excuse to get in the Halloween spirit a little early. As we shift from iced coffee to pumpkin spice, I’m embracing the ‘chill’ and diving into some seasonal morsels that’ll satisfy anyone’s ‘spooky’. There’s no shortage of ways to immerse oneself in the October magic. Prepare yourself for the delights and frights that await. After all, it’s the perfect time to revel in the thrilling essence of fall and all the ‘mystery’ it brings.

Dark Beauty: The Art of Jessica Lauser

Discovering Jessica Lauser’s work is finding a treasure trove of spooky yet beautifully crafted illustrations that merge history and lore with stunning art. As an illustrator and designer, she has a unique talent for creating pieces that evoke a sense of mystery and enchantment. Her ‘Inktober’ creations are particularly captivating, showcasing her ability to blend intricate details with dark themes that resonate with anyone who loves the grim. I love exploring her collection on Instagram, with each print she tells a story, drawing us not only into a world of haunting beauty and artistic expression but also history and culture. Whether you’re a fan of spooky art or just appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, Jessica’s ‘Inktober’ series is a must-see!

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Unearthing the Macabre Through Lore

Entering the world of Lore is like stepping into a chilling time machine that uncovers the darker side of history. This award-winning podcast, which has also inspired a TV show and book series, dives deep into the eerie tales and mysteries that lurk behind the stories we thought we knew. Each episode explores a host of mysterious creatures, tragic events, and unusual places, revealing the unsettling truths that have shaped our world. The storytelling is the perfect blend of education and entertainment for anyone fascinated by the macabre.

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Moody Melodies for Nocturnal ‘Beasts’

Cold Gawd is a post-hardcore/shoegaze band from Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Inspired by early 2000s shoegaze (a subgenre of alternative and indie rock from 80s UK) and mixed with R&B melodies, their sound feels like a modern twist on the heavy, moody music that this former emo kid loves. It’s got that familiar gritty vibe but with a fresh, dreamy edge that makes it stand out.

With October officially here, their atmospheric sound is perfect for anyone looking to embrace the spooky season—think eerie vibes similar to artists like Ethel Cain and Widwife. Cold Gawd’s music beautifully captures the haunting essence of fall, making it a great addition to your autumn playlist.

LISTEN HERE

Eccentric Haunts: Ghoulish Comedy

Watching Extra Ordinary was weird… in the best way—a film that is equal parts raunchy, charming, and deliciously eerie. It’s rare to find a story that so seamlessly intertwines the supernatural with such genuine humor, but this quirky Irish independent film pulls it off with flair.
With a quirky mix of ghostly antics and irreverent comedy, Extra Ordinary delivers a refreshingly original take on the paranormal, perfect for fans of off-kilter humor and heartfelt absurdity.

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Step Aside Secret Garden

Declared as a, “must experience!” by Kate Bailey, Denver Botanic Gardens hosts Ghosts in the Gardens – Open Air Scare, where the serene beauty of the gardens transforms into an eerie landscape after dark. Conjure your courage while strolling along dimly lit paths, surrounded by rustling leaves and shadows while listening to haunting tales that linger among the greenery. With ghost stories rooted in the garden’s history, this spine-tingling event will immerse you in a chilling yet thrilling atmosphere perfect for the Halloween season. Prepare for an unforgettable night where nature meets the supernatural.

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The Haunting Power of Indigenous Storytelling

Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthology

A sublimely sinister collection that dares to unsettle. Featuring stories by various authors, it explores the Indigenous belief that whistling at night can summon spirits—like the Hukai’po in Hawaii or the Lechuza in Mexico. These original, spine-chilling tales bring to life ghosts, curses, hauntings, monstrous beings, family legacies and revenge. A celebration of Indigenous survival and imagination, these stories revel in the eerie consequences of an ill-advised whistle.

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A Haven for Creatives and Ghost Enthusiasts

Originally I was going to write about how New Hope, PA was just voted by Travel and Leisure Magazine to be the Best Small Town in America for Arts and Culture. However, as someone who lived in the area for my formative years, I can attest that New Hope has both a vibrant art scene with eclectic galleries and a spooky side that is perfect for fans of the supernatural.

The historic Logan Inn, one of America’s oldest continuously operating inns, is said to be haunted by spirits like a Revolutionary War soldier and Emily, the ghost of a former innkeeper’s daughter. The Ghost of Aaron Burr, Vice President to Thomas Jefferson, is also rumored to roam the town, while Crybaby Bridge is known for eerie cries heard at night, a spectral echo of a tragic past. Haunted walking tours delve into the town’s dark history, making New Hope an ideal destination for art lovers and ghost hunters alike.

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