Pod corner: 'Last Seen: Postmortem'

In an investigation into the underground market for human remains, Ally Jarmanning of WBUR delves into the world of legal remains trading in America. During her explorations, she interviews Justin Capps and Sonya Cobb, a couple from Smyrna, Delaware, who have accumulated several skeletons that were originally utilized by a fraternal organization for rituals. They recount their experience of transforming an antique coffin into a unique coffee table. Capps states that contrary to popular belief, their collection is not for morbid purposes but stems from genuine interest in the history of human remains. The couple’s activities highlight a growing demand for human remains in various niche markets, prompting concerns about the ethical implications surrounding this phenomenon. The implications of their hobby extend into broader discussions about how human remains are obtained, preserved, and traded, raising questions of legality and morality in the process. As interest in human remains trading rises, society grapples with the need for regulations and an understanding of the motivations behind collectors like Capps and Cobb.