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Professor Theo's Mystery Lab

Professor Theo's Mystery Lab

By Jonathan Joy

The town of Splendid, West Virginia has a higher than average number of kid superheroes, giant bugs, time travelling teens, and much more bizarre activity. Professor Theo's Mystery Lab on the campus of Splendid University is somehow at the heart of it all. Though he doesn't like to divulge all his secrets, the Professor does enjoy sharing his hometown bedtime stories, sure to delight the young, imaginative one in your life.

Written by Jonathan Joy, based on his newspaper column of stories for kids, this is a 10-15 minute podcast, updated weekly, rich in fun, playful tales.
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Currently playing episode

After The Fall: Week One Journal Entries

Professor Theo's Mystery LabMay 04, 2023

00:00
10:44
After The Fall: Week One Journal Entries

After The Fall: Week One Journal Entries

Is this an apocalyptic tale of Splendid's future, or a glimpse into an alternative reality? Professor Theo sums up last year's After the Fall serial to both review and to set up its soon to be released continuation.

May 04, 202310:44
Librarian Superheroes

Librarian Superheroes

Professor Theo shares his National Library Week ode to the important work of librarians.

May 03, 202306:05
Super Mouse

Super Mouse

Professor Theo shares secrets of his own superhero youth.  

May 03, 202308:07
186. Saint Nick Squad 2022

186. Saint Nick Squad 2022

Jingle and Snowflake return for their annual holiday adventure.  

Dec 17, 202207:29
185. The Holidays Are...

185. The Holidays Are...

Professor Theo sends Happy Holiday wishes by way of a poem titled "The Holidays Are..."

Dec 15, 202205:57
Turk and Pork Chop Join the Circus

Turk and Pork Chop Join the Circus

America's favorite turkey and pig, Turk and Pork Chop, hide out from Thanksgiving horrors by joining the circus. 

Nov 18, 202210:11
Turkey Trot 2022 Too

Turkey Trot 2022 Too

A new Thankful Things writing prompt is included, and Professor Theo presents a remastered version of a Turk and Pork Chop classic. 

Nov 04, 202210:01
Turkey Trot 2022

Turkey Trot 2022

Professor Theo revisits the Turk and Pork Chop origin story from four years ago.   

Nov 04, 202210:30
181. Down With Doppelgangers

181. Down With Doppelgangers

A spooky story about a mysterious island and doppelgangers, with a possible tie to Professor Theo's recent After The Fall series. 

Oct 30, 202210:11
The 13 Days of Halloween

The 13 Days of Halloween

Professor Theo shares two poems perfect for the autumn and Halloween season. 

Oct 23, 202207:04
179. Monsters Over (and Under) The Bed

179. Monsters Over (and Under) The Bed

Professor Theo shares October thoughts and a story about monsters.  

Oct 16, 202208:15
250+ Halloween Costume Ideas

250+ Halloween Costume Ideas

Need a costume idea? Professor Theo has over 250 of them.

Oct 01, 202210:02
177. Friday Night Frights

177. Friday Night Frights

 Professor Theo's sports report goes terribly, or at least oddly, wrong...but maybe that's what he had planned all along.

Sep 11, 202209:02
176. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

176. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Cletus Cavalier and friends travel to NEHI and SWOLE to complete recruitment for the Unlikely Alliance. 

Sep 04, 202210:11
175. Martians Attack! On Halloween!

175. Martians Attack! On Halloween!

It's already Halloween at Disney and the Dollar Tree, so why not Splendid, WV?  Included is the new "Martians Attack! On Halloween!" story.  

Aug 27, 202208:46
174. Wizards and Twists

174. Wizards and Twists

Professor Theo shares The Wizard's Test sequel, titled The Wizard's Best, and a big twist in the After the Fall series. 

Aug 20, 202210:36
173. Love Your Library

173. Love Your Library

A day at the library turns chaotic when a magic spell gone wrong forces literary characters out of their books and into the real world. It's Professor Theo's 2022 Back To School Special. 

Aug 14, 202209:51
172. Actors and Automatons

172. Actors and Automatons

Enjoy a night out at the theatre with our talented thespians. Also, Professor Theo shares the fourth chapter of After the Fall. 

Aug 05, 202210:01
171. Is My Dad A Super-villain?

171. Is My Dad A Super-villain?

A boy in nearby Super Duper Town shares suspicions about his father's potentially shadowy double life.

Jul 30, 202211:01
170. Winter Trek in Summer

170. Winter Trek in Summer

Professor Theo shares a cool winter tale in the middle of a sweltering summer. Also included:  hot dog poetry.    

Jul 24, 202208:16
169. Space Dudettes and Zombie Distractions

169. Space Dudettes and Zombie Distractions

Hear the fourth part of Cletus Cavalier's Unlikely Alliance of Really Bad Space Dudes AND chapter three of the After The Fall series on this week's episode. 

Jul 03, 202212:11
168. The Mummy

168. The Mummy

Two new tales this week:  a mummy inspired campfire story and the second part of our new After the Fall series.  

Jun 24, 202210:01
167. PRIDE poem

167. PRIDE poem

Professor Theo shares an Open To All Pride month poem, message. 

Jun 24, 202205:26
166. The Wizard's Test

166. The Wizard's Test

Two new tales this week: one poetry (The Wizard's Test) and one prose (After the Fall, Part 1).

Jun 06, 202209:10
165. Cletus Cavalier - Space Ranger

165. Cletus Cavalier - Space Ranger

Professor Theo foreshadows a school where he would train Splendid's best to combat upcoming calamity.  He also shares the third tale in Cletus Cavalier's Unlikely Alliance of Really Bad Space Dudes. 

Jun 02, 202210:09
164. Beware the Dragons

164. Beware the Dragons

The tale of Janine, her dragon friends, and Dude, the dragon hunter. 

May 04, 202209:11
163. Cletus Cavalier Returns Again

163. Cletus Cavalier Returns Again

Space ranger Cletus Cavalier is back. Professor Theo shares the second chapter of the Cletus Cavalier's Alliance of Really Bad Space Dudes series.
Apr 29, 202209:01
162. The Shakespearean Episode

162. The Shakespearean Episode

That Talented Travelling Theatrical Troupe returns, this time with three plays by William Shakespeare in rep.
Apr 21, 202206:31
161. Secret Agent Kids Society

161. Secret Agent Kids Society

Professor Theo uncovers and shares a top secret case involving kid spies.
Apr 15, 202211:49
160. World Theatre Day Special

160. World Theatre Day Special

Professor Theo celebrates World Theatre Day 2022 with the return of That Talented Travelling Theatrical Troupe. 

Mar 20, 202205:58
159. Pot of Gold

159. Pot of Gold

Gold, a leprechaun, and downtown adventures abound.
Mar 17, 202209:45
158. Super Dork!

158. Super Dork!

When Barnum goes missing, it's Super Dork to the rescue...kind of.

Mar 12, 202210:01
157. Breaking News! Kids Take Over School Board

157. Breaking News! Kids Take Over School Board

Elementary activist Janet Jones returns to lead a school board revolt.  Also, Professor Theo shares the first chapter of a new Cletus Cavalier intergalactic adventure.  

Mar 07, 202212:22
156. All the World's a Stage

156. All the World's a Stage

Two short, poetic tales this week.  One follows the adventures of a travelling troupe of theatre artists.  The other is about a night out at the wrestling matches.

Feb 13, 202208:31
155. The Skylark and the Water Rat

155. The Skylark and the Water Rat

Professor Theo's spin on an Edward E. Hale fable from 1873.

Feb 05, 202210:12
154. Poetry Finds A Way

154. Poetry Finds A Way

When poetry is banned, Professor Theo protests by sharing a fresh new resistance rhyme.  

Feb 03, 202208:46
153. The Wish Box 3

153. The Wish Box 3

Things get wild and weird in the third and final tale in Manny's Wish Box trilogy.  

Jan 22, 202212:36
152. Jack's Back

152. Jack's Back

To avoid being put into storage with holiday decorations, some Christmas village characters plot a daring escape.  

Jan 17, 202209:26
151. The Wish Box 2

151. The Wish Box 2

Fallout from the science fair hits school, and an investigation is underway. 

Jan 13, 202210:07
150. The Wish Box

150. The Wish Box

Manny wants nothing more than to win the annual school science fair.  Will his invention, a box that he insists will grant wishes, make the grade?

Part 1 of 3.

Dec 28, 202110:01
149. The Saint Nick Squad 7

149. The Saint Nick Squad 7

When the North Pole is under attack, Santa takes cover in a familiar place - a bunker in Splendid, West Virginia.  

Dec 18, 202113:21
148. A Splendid Holiday Special - 2021

148. A Splendid Holiday Special - 2021

Professor Theo shares holiday thoughts by way of a new poem and some recommended reading.

Dec 13, 202110:01
147. Space Run and Done

147. Space Run and Done

The conclusion to the epic seven-part series titled Cletus Cavalier's Space Run.  

Dec 05, 202113:03
146. A Turk and Pork Chop Campfire Story

146. A Turk and Pork Chop Campfire Story

Turk and Pork Chop spend the night in a haunted house, on the hunt for a magical amulet needed to save a dear friend.

Nov 20, 202111:29
Jon Joy's Covid Vaccine PSA

Jon Joy's Covid Vaccine PSA

Professor Theo's Mystery Lab creator Jonathan Joy shares his thoughts on the Covid vaccine.  

Nov 15, 202105:15
144. Buck's Interdimensional Story

144. Buck's Interdimensional Story

Beware the Middle School Mimics! Kid Superhero Buck Travers takes over the mic to explain what happened inside that dust cloud that surrounded McFly Middle School a couple months ago.

Nov 10, 202104:46
143. Uncharted Territory

143. Uncharted Territory

Tara begins one dangerous trek, while Cletus Cavalier nearly wraps up another.

Stories include “The Hunt For Red” and “Cletus Cavalier’s Space Run: Part 6 (of 7).”

Nov 07, 202115:41
142. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 3 (of 3)

142. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 3 (of 3)

Have a splendid Halloween with the third and final tale in the Professor Theo's Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts trilogy. 

Oct 27, 202110:21
141. Barnum's 13 Days of Halloween

141. Barnum's 13 Days of Halloween

A tribute to October fun and National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. Three new poetry forms are explored, as well.

Oct 23, 202109:11
140. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 2 (of 3)

140. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 2 (of 3)

The Pep Up Monster returns, but will its appetite for destruction be big enough to consume The Trick’s candy army?

Oct 15, 202110:02
139. Cletus Cavalier RETURNS

139. Cletus Cavalier RETURNS

Professor Theo shares the fifth chapter of the seven part Cletus Cavalier's Space Run series.

A Cryptid Campfire Story lesson plan is included, as well.  

Oct 09, 202114:11
138. Mutant Creatures From The Swamp

138. Mutant Creatures From The Swamp

When a strange smell envelops the town and Splendid Swamp Rangers fear the worst, Professor Theo is called in to investigate a stunning disturbance.

Oct 02, 202108:21
137. Three Cheers For Three Years!

137. Three Cheers For Three Years!

Professor Theo celebrates the show’s three year anniversary with thanks and the story of Halloween Hal.

Sep 26, 202111:11
136. Adventures in Space

136. Adventures in Space

A major update on the dust cloud situation at McFly Middle and Theo shares part four of the seven chapter Cletus Cavalier’s Space Run story.

Sep 17, 202116:01
135. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 1 (of 3)

135. Mostly Harmless Halloween Haunts Part 1 (of 3)

Professor Theo brings many of Splendid's best together in the first part of an epic autumn trilogy.  (Parts 2 and 3 coming in October.)

Sep 12, 202110:01
134. On Dust Clouds, Scowl, and The Toy Collector

134. On Dust Clouds, Scowl, and The Toy Collector

Professor Theo shares an update on the dust cloud surrounding McFly Middle, as well as the next part of Cletus Cavalier's Space Run, and "a terrifying tale," according to Buck Travers, about The Toy Collector. 

Sep 06, 202112:33
133. 100+ Halloween Costume Ideas!

133. 100+ Halloween Costume Ideas!

You need Halloween costume ideas?

More Cletus Cavalier?

An update on the dust cloud that has engulfed McFly Middle School?  

Professor Theo has you covered on all three counts in this brand new episode.  

Sep 02, 202113:28
132. Introducing Cletus Cavalier

132. Introducing Cletus Cavalier

Professor Theo kicks off a new series about space ranger delivery man named Cletus Cavalier.

Aug 28, 202110:21
131. Friday the 13th/Back to School Special

131. Friday the 13th/Back to School Special

Professor Theo shares a semi-spooky campfire tale, Back to School poetry, and advice for the upcoming academic year.

Aug 13, 202110:40
130. Into the TV

130. Into the TV

Professor Theo’s experiments sometimes go awry, as was the case when he first tried to leap in to the gaming world like computer whiz kids Tanner and Max.

Aug 07, 202110:21
129. Summer Poetry Slam

129. Summer Poetry Slam

This episode is devoted to the joys of summer, including beach trips, summer reading lists, podcast fun, and more.  

Jul 30, 202111:41
128. Worst. Math Test. Ever.

128. Worst. Math Test. Ever.

Math is the cause and solution to all of the Kid Superheroes' problems in this, the follow up to last week's Brandi Bermuda tale. 

Jul 25, 202111:21
127. Brandi Bermuda Befuddles Splendid Elementary

127. Brandi Bermuda Befuddles Splendid Elementary

When students from Ms. Bermuda's advanced math class keep disappearing, the Kid Superheroes of Splendid Elementary get involved.  Unfortunately, Buck Travers, Tracy Thompson, Nick Newton, and Mandy Magic may have finally met their match.  Part 1 of 2.  

Jul 14, 202111:41
126. Professor Theo's Recap

126. Professor Theo's Recap

Professor Theo attempts to recap nearly three years of podcasting adventures into one ten minute episode.  

Jun 19, 202110:01
125. Ghost House 3

125. Ghost House 3

Kid Superhero Buck Travers takes over the mic to complete his action-packed Ghost House trilogy.  

Jun 18, 202110:01
124.5 Professor Theo On Stage

124.5 Professor Theo On Stage

Fans of Those Time Travelling Teens take note.  This special bonus episode features a two minute Those Time Travelling Teens stage play, written by Jonathan Joy and read by Rissie Joy and Levi Joy.

* This play is published by Drama Notebook in the "20 More Short Practice Scenes" collection.

Jun 06, 202103:01
124. Dionte Daydreams

124. Dionte Daydreams

Professor Theo looks ahead to summer fun while Dionte daydreams. 

May 29, 202110:14
123. Ghost House 2

123. Ghost House 2

A follow up to Episode 111 and another Kid Superheroes Mystery Lab entry.  Buck Travers takes over the mic once again, in an episode written by Levi Joy. 

May 21, 202108:01
122. Bernie the Bunny: Out of Bounds

122. Bernie the Bunny: Out of Bounds

Professor Theo tells the tale of an adventurous, bouncing bunny named Bernie.

May 15, 202108:50
121. Quest For The Perfect Donut

121. Quest For The Perfect Donut

A follow up to last summer’s episode #89 (Swords and Donuts and Masks, Oh My) and episode #90 (Of Swords and Donuts…and Cows), it’s the third tale in a series about a boy, his sword, and his dream donut superstore.

May 08, 202110:59
120. An Animal Alphabet Adventure and an Acrostic Attempt

120. An Animal Alphabet Adventure and an Acrostic Attempt

A cool crocodile takes listeners on an animal themed trip through the alphabet, and Professor Theo shares an Earth Day acrostic poem.

Apr 26, 202110:31
119. Kid Superheroes in “A Not-So-Super Soup-fest”

119. Kid Superheroes in “A Not-So-Super Soup-fest”

Splendid Elementary’s Kid Superheroes return to battle villains born of soup - The Great Chili Monster, Sinister Spud, the Broccoli Cheeze Whiz-ard, and the Spicy Tortilla Tormentor – in this all new action packed episode.

Apr 17, 202115:55
118. A Not So Eggcellent Egg Hunt

118. A Not So Eggcellent Egg Hunt

Wyatt the Easter Wolf returns to save Splendid from a mob of goodie grabbers that has run completely amok.

Apr 01, 202108:26
117. Ready to Rumble

117. Ready to Rumble

Professor Theo waxes poetic about wrestling, toys, and the days of his youth in this special tribute to World Poetry Day and National Poetry Month. 

Mar 28, 202112:01
116. Walt Waggoner and The Dung Beetle

116. Walt Waggoner and The Dung Beetle

Wannabe superhero Walt Waggoner places a classified ad in search of a nemesis. The Dung Beetle responds.

Mar 14, 202110:01
115. A Yeti Made Pizza and A Video Game Lock In

115. A Yeti Made Pizza and A Video Game Lock In

Professor Theo welcomes a new pizza loving sponsor to the show and tells the tale of a boy trapped in a video game.

Mar 06, 202111:26
114. The Super Kitty Six

114. The Super Kitty Six

Professor Theo shares thoughts on a hopeful spring day and a tale of the superhero cats that protect his neighborhood streets. 

Feb 27, 202110:02
113. Buck vs. The Great Chili Monster: 2021 Edition

113. Buck vs. The Great Chili Monster: 2021 Edition

This is where it all started.  

Jon Joy reimagines the 2016 tale that kicked off his family's Read Me A Bedtime Story column in the Greater Ashland Beacon newspaper five years ago and the Professor Theo's Mystery Lab podcast two and a half years ago.  

Feb 20, 202113:01
112. The Magical Golden Library Card

112. The Magical Golden Library Card

Professor Theo sends a shout out to sponsors, shares thoughts on Presidents Day, and debuts a new short story.  

Feb 14, 202110:21
111. Ghost House

111. Ghost House

Kid Superhero Buck Travers takes over the microphone to tell a story of computer whiz kids Tanner and Max, who are trapped in a Ghost House video game.

Jan 31, 202108:05
110. Wise Wendy and Wild Wild Wes

110. Wise Wendy and Wild Wild Wes

Theo shares an alliterative tale and gives listeners a sneak peek at stories to come in the near future.  

Jan 24, 202109:38
109. A Transformative Tale and Some Pokémon Poetry

109. A Transformative Tale and Some Pokémon Poetry

Mel the Metamorph travels to Earth to observe its inhabitants and Professor Theo shares poems inspired by Pokémon.  

Jan 16, 202110:51
108. Kid Space Force's New Year Special

108. Kid Space Force's New Year Special

Kid Space Force Chris shares a galactic adventure update while Theo reflects on the year that was and considers what lies ahead in 2021.

Dec 30, 202011:01
107. Kid Superheroes Vs. The Christmas Tree Army

107. Kid Superheroes Vs. The Christmas Tree Army

Kid Superhero Buck Travers takes over the mic for this very special, action-packed episode. 

Dec 23, 202007:28
106. To Catch an Elf, Part 2 (of 2)

106. To Catch an Elf, Part 2 (of 2)

Questions are answered in this, the shocking conclusion to yesterday's North Pole thriller.  

Dec 21, 202011:24
105. To Catch an Elf, Part 1 (of 2)

105. To Catch an Elf, Part 1 (of 2)

The Saint Nick Squad investigates a break in at the North Pole that may just be an inside job.  

Dec 20, 202011:46
104. Professor Theo's 3rd Annual Holiday Special

104. Professor Theo's 3rd Annual Holiday Special

Splendid's excess holiday spirit catches Santa off guard, and the jolly dude crash lands into the Mystery Lab.  

Dec 13, 202010:52
103. Ye Olde Toy Shop

103. Ye Olde Toy Shop

A teddy bear defends his toy store home, fending off two dastardly burglars.

Dec 06, 202010:51
102. The Tackett Twins in The Don't Go There Forest

102. The Tackett Twins in The Don't Go There Forest

Superhero twins Don and Joey Tackett face dark haunts in the forbidden Don't Go There Forest.  

Nov 27, 202011:12
101. Turkey Trot 2020 - Thanksgiving in the Gaming World

101. Turkey Trot 2020 - Thanksgiving in the Gaming World

Turk and Pork Chop return for their fifth Thanksgiving adventure, and they run in to some computer whiz kids and kid superheroes along the way.  

Nov 15, 202009:47
Professor Theo at 100

Professor Theo at 100

It's our one hundredth episode!  Also the third annual Election Day special, the battle to be the next mayor of Splendid, West Virginia has reached a fever pitch.   

Nov 02, 202013:19
99. A Zombie and an Etheree

99. A Zombie and an Etheree

A zombie with a strange obsession follows Sylvester Adams from his dream to the real world and Professor Theo shares an autumnal Etheree poem.

Oct 25, 202011:04
98. An Even More Spectacular Splendid Spooktacular Halloween Special

98. An Even More Spectacular Splendid Spooktacular Halloween Special

Professor Theo returns for a third round of Halloween fun.  Includes a continuation of the tale of Kid Superhero Buck Travers and the Splendid Sea Creature, as well as a trip to the Pumpkin Patch.  

Oct 18, 202010:17
97. A Splendid Spooktacular Halloween Special

97. A Splendid Spooktacular Halloween Special

Kid Detectives and Kid Superheroes return in this Halloween special.  

Oct 11, 202010:17
96. Who Let the Monsters Out?

96. Who Let the Monsters Out?

The first of three new Halloween episodes features a short play reading “Journey to the Center of a Video Game” and a short story “Who Let the Monsters Out?” perfectly suited to October fun.

Oct 04, 202010:51
95. X-Fest

95. X-Fest

The 2 year anniversary episode of this podcast!

Tanner and Max return with some Kid Superheroes in tow, as the missing pieces in the Theory X saga all fall into place.

Sep 23, 202016:10
94. Let's Climb a Tree

94. Let's Climb a Tree

Professor Theo takes a ride atop one of Splendid University's famous walking trees.  Included is a fun art/writing activity/exercise for young and old.  

Sep 12, 202010:05
93. Moon Pie Lullaby

93. Moon Pie Lullaby

Professor Theo’s cure for insomnia is included in this tasty episode.

Sep 05, 202007:30
92. Out of this World

92. Out of this World

Professor Theo shares his UFO tale and the Kid Space Force returns.  

Aug 29, 202014:01
91. Ordinary Man

91. Ordinary Man

When Superhero Steve loses his powers he becomes…Ordinary Man! Though his life is turned upside down, Steve learns that anybody can heroic.

Aug 10, 202010:21
90. Of Swords and Donuts...and Cows

90. Of Swords and Donuts...and Cows

Levi returns in a sequel to last week's Sword of Awesome Greatness adventure, and Theo shares a short tale for wee ones titled "Do Cows Wear Hats?"

Aug 04, 202010:01
89. Swords and Donuts and Masks, Oh My!

89. Swords and Donuts and Masks, Oh My!

Professor Theo shares an adventure tale of a boy named Levi, on the hunt for a magical sword, and a poem about the importance of wearing masks.  

Jul 25, 202010:40
88. Kid Space Force 8 & Canine Independence Day

88. Kid Space Force 8 & Canine Independence Day

Professor Theo shares an update on the most recent Kid Space Force mission and tells the tale of the time dogs worked together to rid Splendid of  all fireworks.    

Jul 12, 202010:01
87. Breaker

87. Breaker

The third in a trilogy about the Tween Superheroes at McFly Middle School.  Meet Chris Martinez, a break dancing superhero.  Breakout is back, too.    

Jul 03, 202011:46
86. Three Wishes

86. Three Wishes

Jonathan Joy and Levi Joy both take the mic to share a tale/poem about imagination and fun.  

Jun 26, 202008:10
85. Meet The Breakfast Express/Breakout Returns

85. Meet The Breakfast Express/Breakout Returns

A follow up to Introducing Breakout, this is the second episode in a trilogy about the new Tween Superheroes at McFly Middle School.

Jun 20, 202014:31
84. Introducing Breakout

84. Introducing Breakout

If you've ever dreamed of being three inches tall or of being a character in a well read book or of being a tween superhero at McFly Middle School, this episode is for you.  The first in a trilogy of episodes that introduce listeners to five new kid superheroes from McFly, West Virginia, nearby Splendid.  

Jun 13, 202010:41
83. A Wall Around Bottomsville

83. A Wall Around Bottomsville

Professor Theo shares a tale of love, equality, standing up to bullies, and tearing down walls.   

Jun 06, 202010:01
82. Burt The Monster vs. The Fire Cloud

82. Burt The Monster vs. The Fire Cloud

Things get heated when a monster named Burt, who is actually a pretty cool dude, comes face to face with a villainous cloud made of fire.

May 25, 202009:29
81. The Great Splendid Prison Escape

81. The Great Splendid Prison Escape

Dozens of the Mystery Lab’s favorite characters converge on this episode, as the heroic friends of Splendid must band together when a load of super-villains break out of Splendid Prison. It’s a tale years in the making.

May 17, 202012:11
80. Back to the 80s

80. Back to the 80s

Professor Theo travels back to the 1980s with Those Time Travelling Teens to help them rescue a friend in need, stuck in the past.

May 09, 202010:16
79. Legend of the Hidden Toby

79. Legend of the Hidden Toby

On a late night search through his father’s antique toys, Austin uncovers an ancient sarcophagus and a big mystery.

May 02, 202013:59
78. Go Go Green Machine

78. Go Go Green Machine

The Earth Power Team returns for adventure and to share a variety of Earth Day activities and inspiration with Mystery Lab listeners.

Apr 22, 202016:37
77. Hoppy Easter!

77. Hoppy Easter!

Wyatt the Easter Wolf returns for a second straight year, teaming up with the Easter Bunny in this action-packed episode. Beware the jelly bean pirates.

Apr 11, 202010:01
76. I Can't Grow On

76. I Can't Grow On

Tune in for an update on Lazlo Bluebox and his true love, Lucy, and enjoy a story about a little girl who transforms into a giant. Be careful what you wish for.

Apr 04, 202011:33
75. Play Ball

75. Play Ball

Professor Theo ushers in a new baseball and softball season with tales of some successful student athletes, as they navigate the ups and down (literally and figuratively) of competitive sports.

Mar 29, 202012:13
74. Return to Super Duper Town

74. Return to Super Duper Town

Tiny Mike, Big Sheila, and El Truco have Super Duper Dude and Super Duper Dudette in a tight spot. Who will prevail? Good battles evil and the future of Super Duper Town is at stake in this exciting conclusion to last week’s episode.

Mar 22, 202012:30
73. Welcome to Super Duper Town

73. Welcome to Super Duper Town

Professor Theo takes a road trip to nearby Super Duper Town, home of Super Duper Dude, Super Duper Dudette, and Tiny Mike’s Villains ‘R Us superstore. Part 1 of a 2 parter.

Mar 15, 202012:06
72.  Pot of Gold

72. Pot of Gold

Kid Explorers Donnie and Teresa return, on the hunt for gold at the end of a rainbow.

Mar 08, 202013:01
71. Spring Special

71. Spring Special

Professor Theo welcomes Spring with two alliterative tales, of Skedaddling Steve and Little LeBron. Lovers of the outdoors and art will take particular interest in this week’s stories.

Mar 01, 202012:12
70. On Haiku Poems and American History

70. On Haiku Poems and American History

Professor Theo has lined up some short lessons on poetry and American Presidents in this episode.  Those time travelling teens return.  

Feb 17, 202011:31
69. Thank You For Being a Friend

69. Thank You For Being a Friend

Two tales of friendship and love are at the heart of this Valentine's Day episode.

Feb 09, 202010:01
68. Professor Theo and the No Good, Horrible, Really Weird Groundhog Day

68. Professor Theo and the No Good, Horrible, Really Weird Groundhog Day

Giant groundhogs compel Theo to record a special Groundhog Day episode on the spot.

Feb 02, 202007:41
67. The Big Game

67. The Big Game

Splendid, West Virginia is host to The Big Game for the first, and likely final, time. Zombies, aliens, panicked crowds, Kid Superheroes and Kid Astronauts abound!

Jan 31, 202010:42
66. Snow Much Fun, Part 2 - To Everest

66. Snow Much Fun, Part 2 - To Everest

The Kid Superheroes fly to Mt. Everest in search of The Blizz and to take away the source of his evil power. Kid Superhero Buck Travers narrates this episode, which picks up where Episode #65: Snow Much Fun left off.

Jan 25, 202008:05
65. Snow Much Fun?

65. Snow Much Fun?

Children of Splendid rejoice when snow closes school one Tuesday in January. Their celebration is cut short, though, when The Blizz comes to town. The Kid Superheroes return in this icy, action-packed adventure.

Jan 11, 202015:39
64. Hit Reset. Play Again.

64. Hit Reset. Play Again.

Computer Whiz Kids Tanner and Max return to the gaming world to catch Mr. X. This time they have a little help from Tanner’s sister, Kid Superhero Tracy Thompson.

Jan 05, 202013:28
63. Professor Theo’s 2nd Annual New Year Special

63. Professor Theo’s 2nd Annual New Year Special

Theo introduces the listener to his wife’s Pretties Emporium in downtown Splendid, shares a tale of the villainous Time Bandit, and brings together many of the town’s favorite animal characters in this supersized episode. Happy New Year!

Dec 29, 201918:48
62. A Splendid Christmas

62. A Splendid Christmas

Not a creature was stirring…except for the villainous Mr. January. The Saint Nick Squad returns to face their biggest challenge yet, and the future of Christmas hangs in the balance.

Dec 20, 201911:13
61. A Splendid Holiday

61. A Splendid Holiday

Professor Theo shares a Saint Nick Squad poem, and a tale of giving at this most wonderful time of year.

Dec 08, 201913:16
60. Call Me Mr. Sssss

60. Call Me Mr. Sssss

The new 4th grade reading and writing substitute teacher at Splendid Elementary, Mr. S, has a menacing command over his classroom. When the regular teacher, Mr. Young, doesn’t return after several days, Kid Superheroes Buck Travers, Mandy Magic, and Robert Robertson decide to investigate. What they find will shock you.

Dec 01, 201915:02
59. Turkey Trot 3

59. Turkey Trot 3

The Turk and Pork Chop series of Thanksgiving misadventures continues with a surprise, all new, fourth edition in their series – Turk and Pork Chop 4-Ever!

Nov 23, 201912:26
58. Turkey Trot 2

58. Turkey Trot 2

The further adventures of Turk and Pork Chop. While Episode 9 featured the first two tales in the Turk and Pork Chop trilogy, this year’s update includes the third and final story in their series.

Professor Theo shares his list of thankful things, as well, just in time for Thanksgiving.

Nov 16, 201914:01
57. Be What You Are

57. Be What You Are

Professor Theo introduces listeners to the Giggliputz, a yellow blob with an important lesson about self-confidence and appreciating the things that make us different from one another.

Nov 10, 201912:00
56. Breaking News! Another Splendid Election

56. Breaking News! Another Splendid Election

After a successful year as second grade class President, Janet Jones had no desire to run for another term in third grade. That all changed when a scandal broke out regarding third grade President David Payne. Stay tuned to Professor Theo for all the breaking news surrounding Splendid Elementary politics.

This week's episode also features an update on the ever changing Theory X series.  

Nov 03, 201912:00
55. The 13 Days of Halloween

55. The 13 Days of Halloween

Professor Theo shares his 13 Days of Halloween gifts in this special bonus episode.

Oct 26, 201907:49
54. Another Splendid Halloween

54. Another Splendid Halloween

Professor Theo shares Halloween editions of the Kid Detectives and Those Time Travelling Teens. The former group build a Monster Catch to help solve a case, while the latter foursome travels back in time to grab special items to enhance their Halloween costumes.

Oct 19, 201914:15
53. Dreamscape

53. Dreamscape

The lines between the dream world and reality are blurred when things from your sleeping hours follow you into the waking ones.

Oct 12, 201911:39
52. Trick or Trick

52. Trick or Trick

Halloween is near, which means the Splendid Candy Shop is hopping with business. This fall season is different, though, for this year the store’s candy treats decide to rebel. Also, Professor Theo shares a bit of Mr. X’s background.

Oct 05, 201913:54
51. Return from Pangea

51. Return from Pangea

Kid Superhero Buck Travers takes over the mic on this week’s episode to finish Theo’s Pangea tale from Episode #50.

Sep 28, 201905:31
50. The Crossover Episodes, Part 3: The Seven Stones of Pangea

50. The Crossover Episodes, Part 3: The Seven Stones of Pangea

Children of Splendid unite for adventure in this, the one year anniversary episode of the Mystery Lab.

Sep 22, 201915:06
49. A Path Less Traveled

49. A Path Less Traveled

Donnie and Teresa explore the woods nearby Splendid University only to discover a mysterious substance that may spell doom for our Kid Explorers.

Sep 07, 201912:26
48. The Crossover Episodes, Part 2: It Came From The Splendid Swamplands

48. The Crossover Episodes, Part 2: It Came From The Splendid Swamplands

Something dangerous lurks in the wetland between Splendid Elementary and the old, abandoned uranium enrichment plant.  Many Mystery Lab favorites band together in a crossover episode full of twists and turns.  

Aug 31, 201915:39
47. For All You Cucumber and Pizza Lovers Out There

47. For All You Cucumber and Pizza Lovers Out There

Young veggie lover, Luke, needs help from his friends to eat his way out of a cucumber house. And Kid Detectives Ben and Red are stumped when their fearless leader Jen goes missing.

Aug 24, 201915:20
46. The Crossover Episodes, Part 1: Dinos in Splendid!

46. The Crossover Episodes, Part 1: Dinos in Splendid!

Professor Theo shares a tale of friendship and a kid superheroes/time travelling teens mashup. Dinosaurs are on the loose in modern day Splendid! 

Aug 17, 201918:47
45. The Back To School Special

45. The Back To School Special

It’s time to begin a new school year, but first a bedtime story and some words of advice from Professor Theo.  Big news regarding some upcoming crossover episodes is revealed, as well.  

Aug 10, 201912:55
44. Missions in Outer Space & Far Underground

44. Missions in Outer Space & Far Underground

When Chris goes missing in space, it's Natalie and Marsha to the rescue in Professor Theo's 7th Kid Space Force tale.  Also, the 3rd chapter of the Underground Kid Explorers saga has a surprise in store for listeners.

Aug 03, 201914:42
43. Of Pez and Pirates and Parrots

43. Of Pez and Pirates and Parrots

Professor Theo promotes Pezamania poetry and shares a tale of pirates and parrots. 

Jul 19, 201912:00
42. A Not So Splendid Summer Meltdown

42. A Not So Splendid Summer Meltdown

A wild and wonderfully weird week sees the Kid Detectives take on a sizzling hot summer case, and all the monkeys break out of the Splendid Zoo. 

Jul 14, 201913:14
41. Freedom Lost and Found

41. Freedom Lost and Found

The toys of one man’s childhood come back to haunt him in a somewhat spooky campfire story, and Lady Liberty makes a visit to the Mystery Lab. 

Jul 07, 201912:44
The Big 4-0

The Big 4-0

The 40th episode of The Mystery Lab is here, and it’s also the 7th episode to feature everybody’s favorite techies – Tanner and Max. These quantum leaping computer whiz kids are suddenly trapped in the games that make up the mini-arcade at the Mega Mega Mart. At least they are far from the grips of the villainous Mr. X. Or are they? 

Jun 29, 201912:09
39. Are You Afraid of The Dark?

39. Are You Afraid of The Dark?

Professor Theo shares an update on those Underground Kid Explorers. Listeners will also be introduced to Ted, a hatchling sea turtle, who is caught up in an adventurous moonlit tale.  

Jun 16, 201917:31
38. Super Secret Surprise Episode

38. Super Secret Surprise Episode

Professor Theo is out of town at a conference and his son, Kid Superhero Buck Travers, has been warned to stay away from dad’s podcasting equipment. So how is there a new episode this week?

Jun 09, 201909:09
37. School's Out For Summer

37. School's Out For Summer

Professor Theo welcomes summer by sharing tales of Darby’s adventures in the library and one exciting bike race. 

Jun 02, 201912:50
36. Barnum, the Detective Dog, and the Case of the Missing Hot Rod

36. Barnum, the Detective Dog, and the Case of the Missing Hot Rod

Not many towns boast a race car driving cat and a detective dog, but as you’ve learned by now…Splendid isn’t just any ordinary town.  

May 26, 201912:07
35. Holding Out For A Hero

35. Holding Out For A Hero

When a giant Pep Up! soda monster forms, the town of Pepville needs a hero. And Splendid Elementary student, Lexi Barnes, has to answer the question “What is a Hero?” for a class essay.

May 19, 201913:02
34. Kid Explorers Here and There, Kid Explorers Everywhere!

34. Kid Explorers Here and There, Kid Explorers Everywhere!

Meet the Kid Explorers, as they traverse mysterious underground tunnels, and make their way through the forest near Splendid University. Beware The Dark, and a giant on the hunt for a lost magical staff.

May 12, 201919:06
33. A Not So Splendid Science Fair

33. A Not So Splendid Science Fair

Mr. Brains shows his true colors and Kid Superheroes abound at the annual Splendid Elementary Science Fair. 

May 05, 201911:23
32. Every Day Is Earth Day

32. Every Day Is Earth Day

Fourth grade Splendid Elementary teacher Mrs. Lyon leads her Earth Power Team pupils in a variety of Earth Day activities and a battle with The Litterbug. 

Now available on Podcoin.

Apr 28, 201912:16
31. Easter Egg-Stravaganza, Part 2

31. Easter Egg-Stravaganza, Part 2

Kid Detectives are on the Case of the Endangered Easter, and a three part Kid Space Force series concludes. 

Apr 21, 201919:40
30. Easter Egg-Stravaganza, Part 1

30. Easter Egg-Stravaganza, Part 1

When the Easter Bunny is in need, Wyatt the Easter Wolf comes to the rescue. Part 2 of a Kid Space Force trilogy takes shape, as well.  

Apr 14, 201915:03
29. Blast Off! with the Kid Space Force

29. Blast Off! with the Kid Space Force

Fans of the Kid Space Force will rejoice at this episode, chock full of galactic escapades. 

Apr 07, 201912:41
28. I Can. I Must. I Will.

28. I Can. I Must. I Will.

Professor Theo shares tales of Splendid youth facing their fears and following their dreams.  

Mar 31, 201913:45
27. Tanner and Max in the Gaming World

27. Tanner and Max in the Gaming World

Computer whiz kids Tanner and Max have been located. Catch up on their adventures inside the gaming world, as they leap from one video game to another, intent on saving all technology from the villainous Mr. X. 

Mar 24, 201915:52
26. The Splendid Zoo & The T4 Crew

26. The Splendid Zoo & The T4 Crew

Professor Theo takes the listener on a trip to the Splendid Zoo for something quite special and then wraps up the Those Time Travelling Teens Return trilogy.  

Mar 17, 201912:36
25. A Supersized Episode XXV

25. A Supersized Episode XXV

A super-sized episode overflowing with kid superheroes and time travelling teens. 

Mar 10, 201919:49
24. A Love Story and An Adventure

24. A Love Story and An Adventure

Help bring Lazlo and Lucy Bluebox back together again. Also, the McFly Middle School Science Club is at it again, its time travelling teenage members hopping all through the past. Part one of a new three part T4 series is the anchor of this week’s episode.  

Mar 03, 201912:32
23. Professor Theo's Confession

23. Professor Theo's Confession

Professor Theodore Travers has a confession to make, and it involves his secret lab, his superhero son Buck Travers, and a gigantic Bug Beast accidentally set loose on Splendid. 

Feb 24, 201913:25
22. Of Bats and Blobs

22. Of Bats and Blobs

The Bat Band wants to rock and roll all night, and a big blue blob teaches everyone an important lesson. 

Feb 17, 201911:04
21. A Couple Cool Trips

21. A Couple Cool Trips

First, travel with the Kids Space Force on a journey through the galaxy. Then, tag along on an outing through Splendid to help solve the case of the Ice Cream Bandit.  

Feb 10, 201915:53
20. Kid Superheroes X

20. Kid Superheroes X

Superhero kids Buck and Tracy return. Also, a new kid superhero – Mandy Magic – is introduced. 

Feb 03, 201915:36
19. Splendid, We Have a Problem

19. Splendid, We Have a Problem

The Kid Space Force blasts off, and a dastardly band of nocturnal pizza thieves are on the loose.  

Jan 27, 201913:35
18. Ready Plot Point One

18. Ready Plot Point One

Theo introduces his friend The Terror and surprises await, as kid superhero Buck Travers takes over the second half of the show to reveal a big secret.   

Jan 20, 201916:29
17. Dance and Leap, Then To Sleep

17. Dance and Leap, Then To Sleep

What has magical dancing shoes and adventurous kids trapped in video games? This episode!

Jan 13, 201915:18
16. Rock On, Rock-afire!

16. Rock On, Rock-afire!

Escape is the theme for this week’s stories which follow (1) a runaway animatronic rock band, and (2) a Christmas village character not so keen on going back in the box. 

Jan 06, 201914:32
15. A Supersized New Year Special

15. A Supersized New Year Special

Our biggest episode yet! Say goodbye to 2018 and kick off the New Year in style: trapped in a video game with whiz kid Tanner or running from dinosaurs with those time travelling teens.

Dec 30, 201820:49
14. And To All a Good Night – A Splendid Christmas Special

14. And To All a Good Night – A Splendid Christmas Special

 Off to bed now, but not before a Saint Nick Squad adventure and some more teenage time travelling fun. 

Dec 23, 201818:11
13. Lions and Clowns and Time Travel, Oh My!

13. Lions and Clowns and Time Travel, Oh My!

A little girl joins the circus and the 3rd chapter of those time travelling teens’ adventures takes shape.
Dec 16, 201812:50
12.  Travels Through Space and Time…and Snow

12. Travels Through Space and Time…and Snow

Santa’s secret agent task force sets off on a mission, while Professor Theo continues the tale of time travelling teens.
Dec 09, 201815:15
11. Holiday Shock & Time Travel Talk

11. Holiday Shock & Time Travel Talk

Kid Superheroes take on Miss Shockey and Professor Theo introduces those time travelling teens.
Dec 02, 201817:33
And Then There Were 10

And Then There Were 10

The tenth episode focuses on the joys of holiday giving and the further adventures of whiz-kid-trapped-in-a-video-game Tanner.
Nov 25, 201814:22
9. Turkey Trot

9. Turkey Trot

Turk and Pork Chop escape the Meat Jackpot Restaurant and set off on wild adventures together.
Nov 18, 201815:55
8. From the Book Fair with Love

8. From the Book Fair with Love

The biannual book fair comes to Splendid Elementary and kid superheroes Buck and Tracy return to face the Book Fair Burglar.
Nov 11, 201810:44
7. A Splendid Election

7. A Splendid Election

The first story covers Election Day at Splendid Elementary, while the second follows a boy computer whiz trapped inside a video game.
Nov 04, 201812:45
6. A Splendid Halloween

6. A Splendid Halloween

A special Halloween episode of the Mystery Lab features poetry and the Pumpkin Thief. Trick or treat.
Oct 28, 201811:32
5. Barnum’s Bone and a Dangerous Deal

5. Barnum’s Bone and a Dangerous Deal

A mystery tale for dogs and kid superheroes team up with kid super-villain Kid Popsicle in an attempt to outwit Zero-man.
Oct 21, 201812:24
4. Pizza Day and Pezamania

4. Pizza Day and Pezamania

Kid superheroes battle a trio of enemies on pizza day and Professor Theo tells the tale of one boy's magical trip to a Pez convention.
Oct 14, 201814:23
3. Science Fair Standouts

3. Science Fair Standouts

Future kid superheroes are introduced and Professor Theo is impressed by a boy named Axel and his giant bug friends.
Oct 07, 201811:30
2. Kid Superheroes Unite and a Race Car Driving Cat

2. Kid Superheroes Unite and a Race Car Driving Cat

What's more amazing? A couple kid superheroes or a cat that can drive a race car? This week's episode has both.
Sep 30, 201811:02
1. Kid Superheroes and Runaway Pumpkin Patches

1. Kid Superheroes and Runaway Pumpkin Patches

Professor Theo shares tales of kid superheroes and a runaway pumpkin patch on this very first episode.
Sep 23, 201812:52