Mavens of Misdeeds
Nothing is too weird or spooky for us to discuss on this weekly podcast! Indulge your curiosity with us every Tuesday as we discuss the darker side of history, the paranormal, and international folklore, myths, and legends. We keep it light-hearted because learning about history and cultures other than our own should be fun and accessible to everyone!
Episodes
37 episodes
Samhain: The origin of Halloween and Torture at the Tower of London
It's always spooky season around here, but in this episode we go extra spooky and educational. Yasmine explains the origin of Halloween and why we trick or treat. Jen takes us to London to explore the executions performed there, a c...
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Episode 35
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1:11:49
Sarah Ware Murder Finale and Atlantis
It's finally here! The final part of the Sarah Ware historical true crime series. Let us know what you think happened to Sarah-in this episode we discuss theories and find out if anyone is convicted.Yasmine is determined that Je...
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Episode 34
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1:15:48
Sarah Ware Murder Part 2 and The Dudley Curse
In this episode we are back with Part 2 of the historical true crime story about Sarah Ware. A coroner's inquest has been held and a suspect arrested, but will justice be done? Many theories are starting to emerge and secrets are be...
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Episode 33
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1:16:39
The Fates and Sarah Ware Murder Part 1
Do you believe everything that happens on this big marble is by chance or do you believe your life path is predetermined? In Greek mythology the Moirai or the fates determine your best life. Yasmine breaks it down for us in the firs...
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Episode 32
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1:12:42
The Frozen People of Vermont and the Stanley Hotel
This one is a doozy! First we discuss a legend from Vermont where apparently cryogenics was invented in 1887 per the tale: The Frozen People of Vermont. Next Yasmine takes us to the Disneyland of Ghosts--The Stanley Hotel in C...
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Episode 31
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1:14:53
Bucksport, ME curses and Red Paint People of Maine and Vampire Folklore!
Fresh from vacation Jen takes us through a couple of incredible Maine legends. First, a visit to the historical society in Bucksport, ME prompted a visit to the cemetery to visit the well known grave of Col Jonathan Bucksport that was def...
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Episode 30
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1:59:18
The Ladies with Poisonous Hair--Elizabeth Ridgeway and Medusa
Elizabeth Ridgeway was known by those closest to her to have some serious character flaws, but many realized far too late the lengths she would go to to rid herself of those that irritated her in some way. Jen kicks us off with 17th centu...
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Episode 29
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1:32:35
The Dark Watchers and The Devil's Hoofprints
Yasmine starts us off with the Dark Watchers that closely monitor the California mountains, known to be present since the Chumash people. Reportedly featureless and make their presence known to hikers and travelers. Are they just wa...
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Episode 28
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1:14:27
Spiritualism: Seances, Trances, and Sherlock Holmes
In the 19th Century Spiritualism was all the rage with Mediums setting up shop or hitting the road all across America and Europe. While some were likely genuine others were simply taking advantage of the grieving, though the lengths and t...
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Episode 27
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1:16:29
Mysterious Fate of Theodosia Burr and Ghostly Passengers on Lonely Roads
Hello Mavens! Yasmine and I are back with another episode of spookiness and maybe a brief history lesson or two. You have watched "Hamilton" at least once, but do you know the incredible mystery surrounding Theodosia Burr's disappea...
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Episode 26
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1:00:45
Super-Duper-Stitious: The best and strangest superstitions
In this episode meet my new co-host Yasmine! Together we discuss superstitions, where they come from and why we obey them while denying their existence...knock on wood anyone? You can't miss this episode especially if you change you...
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Episode 25
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1:47:12
Phobias
Scared of spiders? Snakes? Dancing? Don't worry you are not alone! In this episode and sadly Megan's last regular episode we discuss a particular one, taphophobia better known as the fear of being buried alive. We have d...
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Episode 24
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38:38
Boggart: British Isles Poltergeist
In this episode Megan introduces us to a feisty little poltergeist that seems to encompass many folklore entities. Part naughty part nice stinky shapeshifting little bugger that just might latch onto your family if you're not careful!&nbs...
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Episode 23
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37:52
Franz Ludwig Helreifel: America's First Vampire!
In this episode we present America's first true vampire! He even admits it, kind of. Long thought to be just another New York City urban legend, a long-lost newspaper article was discovered with the Headline: "A Human Bloodsuc...
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Episode 22
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1:05:30
King Tut of the Tumbleweeds
We had so many possible titles for this episode: "The Great Spitoon Robbery", "MANnequin" and last but not least "It's Never a Mannequin", but there was a clear winner. In this episode we present the King Tut of the Tumbleweeds!&nbs...
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Episode 21
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36:26
Alice Kyteler: Witch of Kilkenny
The Mavens combine two of their favorite things in this episode, witchcraft and medieval Europe! Kilkenny castle in Ireland which still stands today has a long and fascinating history, including the country's first witch trials. Was...
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Episode 20
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52:45
Qalupalik the Inuit Sea Monster
Beware if you are thinking of taking a dip in the Arctic for many reasons, but especially if you are alone as you may find yourself face to face with Qalupalik! Described as a female mermaid-like sea monster, siren and in general evil for...
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Episode 19
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36:02
Ring Around the Rosie
Ring Around the Rosie: Harmless children's nursery rhyme or dark depiction of life during the Black Death? We will let you decide as we deconstruct this popular rhyme that has captivated generations with it's dang catchy rhythm and ...
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Episode 18
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31:39
Auld Lang Syne
The Mavens are excited for 2021 to peace on outta here! In this episode we explore New Year's Eve traditions from Finland, Scotland, Spain, Colombia, Denmark, Panama, Philippines, Brazil, and Greece. We also endeavor to answer your ...
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Episode 15
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33:54
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Enjoy this classic Christmas poem originally titled "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clemente Clark Moore read by Megan. The music playing in the background is a lovely French song called Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella that dates back to...
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Episode 14
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5:52
Père Fouettard "Father Whipper" A French Christmas Folktale
We are back in France for a unique Christmas Folktale. Père Fouettard or "Father Whipper" is an interesting sidekick to Old St. Nick. From his humble beginnings as a cannibalistic butcher/innkeeper to his redemption as Santa's...
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Episode 14
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32:18
Release the Kraken!
For our 13th episode we thought it only made sense to unleash one of the most famous cryptozoological (probably not a word) creatures known to haunt the high seas! Dive right in with us as Megan discusses this legendary sea monster,...
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Episode 13
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51:08
Pirate Jeanne de Clisson, The Lioness of Brittany
In this episode we discuss the awesome and original femme fatale, Jeanne de Clisson otherwise known as the Lioness of Brittany. This lady captivated the masses in the 14th century when she developed her own fleet of pirate ships and...
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Episode 12
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43:57