Murder of Crones

In this engaging episode our hosts explore the societal perceptions of women's facial expressions, especially Resting Bitch Face (RBF), and how these perceptions impact women's experiences in healthcare, professional settings, and social interactions. It delves into cultural differences, gender stereotypes, racial biases, and the importance of self-advocacy. Show Notes Takeaways: - The science behind facial expressions and social cues - Cultural differences in interpreting resting face - Gender bias and societal expectations around women and men - The impact of resting face on women's professional and personal lives - Unconscious biases and their influence on perception Societal perceptions of women's facial expressions - Impact of RBF on women's healthcare experiences - Cultural differences in expressing emotions - Racial and gender biases in social and medical contexts - Strategies for self-advocacy and authenticity Chapters: 00:01 Introduction to Murder of Crones Podcast 00:49 Exploring RBF 05:28 Personal Experiences with RBF 11:00 Cultural Perspectives on Facial Expressions 14:04 The Burden of Smiling 16:18 RBF: A Double Standard 18:47 Cultural Expectations and Gender Norms 20:39 Unconscious Bias and Social Perception 29:16 The Impact of RBF on Professional Life 35:59 Navigating Health and Communication Challenges 36:49 The Impact of RBF on Women's Health 39:45 Systematic Dismissal of Women's Pain 44:13 Advocating for Women's Health in Medical Settings 47:03 Intersectionality in Healthcare Disparities 53:01 Understanding Neurodiversity and Gender Bias 54:25 Understanding Neurodivergence in Women 55:54 Cultural Perspectives on Facial Expressions 01:00:46 The Impact of RBF Across Cultures 01:05:27 Breaking Gender Norms and Embracing Authenticity 01:08:28 The Social Media Landscape and Its Effects 01:11:16 Concluding Thoughts on Performance and Identity References: B, Nikki. “The "Bitch” Penalty: Why Assertive Women Pay the Price in Industry.” Linked In, 5 March 2026, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bitch-penalty-why-assertive-women-pay-price-industry-nikki-bens-vzvqc/. Carpenter, Kalyn. “Getting real about women's health - Fatal delays and the misdiagnosis epidemic.” Curious Health, 7 March 2024, https://curioushealth.io/getting-real-about-womens-health-fatal-delays-and-the-misdiagnosis-epidemic/. Accessed 5 April 2026. Christopher, Watkins D., et al. “Social Transmission of Leadership Preference: Knowledge of Group Membership and Partisan Media Reporting Moderates Perceptions of Leadership Ability From Facial Cues to Competence and Dominance.” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2996, 2020. National Library of Medicine, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6971406/. Cooke, Martin, and Tasha Shields. “Anti-Indigenous racism in Canadian healthcare: a scoping review of the literature.” International Journal for Quality in Health Care, vol. 36, no. 3, 2024. Oxford Academic, https://academic.oup.com/intqhc/article/36/3/mzae089/7749614?login=false. Grossman, Samantha. “The Insidious Sexism of 'Resting Bitch Face.'” This Week, 10 January 2019, https://theweek.com/articles/815496/insidious-sexism-resting-bitch-face. Harris Dr., Felecia C. “The Resting "Bitch" Face: Exploring The Intersection of African American Women, Race, Class, Sexuality. Gender and Reality TV.” University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2016. Digital Commons, https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/sewsa/2016/fullschedule/5/. Khazan, Olga. “Why Some Cultures Frown on Smiling.” The Atlantic, 27 May 2016, https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2016/05/culture-and-smiling/483827/. Mehrotra, Palasha Krishna. “The Unsmiling Indian.” Man's World, https://www.mansworldindia.com/lifestyle/the-unsmiling-indian. R, Rathi. “Resting Bitch Face: Why Are Only Women Accused Of Having It?” Feminism in India, 1 August 2017, https://feminisminindia.com/2017/08/01/resting-bitch-face-women/. Salamon, Maureen. “The dangerous dismissal of women's pain.” Harva

Welcome back for part 2 of Sex Myths. In this episode, we explore common myths about sex and desire in long-term relationships, aiming to shed light on the realities that often go unspoken. Our conversations unravel misconceptions that can hinder intimacy, offering insight and encouragement for enduring love lives. Show Notes Takeaways: The myth that love naturally sustains desire over time How desire evolves with age and changes in life circumstances The impact of societal expectations and myths about aging and sexuality The role of emotional safety, distance, and separation in maintaining desire The influence of societal norms, porn, and cultural stories on expectations The significance of communication and honesty about intimacy The effects of parenthood and life transitions on sexuality Challenging the idea that sexual frequency equals health The importance of individual external lives and separate interests How myths about sexual performance and aging can create unnecessary stress Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the myths surrounding long-term sex and desire 02:17 - Why silence and shame impact ongoing intimacy 04:46 - The myth that desire fades as love endures 10:05 - How opening relationships doesn't necessarily restore desire 13:54 - The historical and cultural context of sexuality in different eras 17:28 - Impact of societal beliefs about spontaneous desire 22:19 - The challenge of keeping the spark alive and the myth of eternal passion 26:40 - The effectiveness of date nights and creating space for eroticism 29:47 - Differentiating closeness and desire, and the importance of healthy separation 35:10 - How desire fluctuates with life phases and age 43:06 - Common misconceptions that low desire signals relationship failure 47:30 - The influence of porn, fantasy, and societal narratives on expectations 50:01 - The myth that aging ends eroticism and desire Note: For a more comprehensive understanding, we recommend reading Esther Perel’s work, which guides much of our discussion today. The episode emphasizes that desire and intimacy in long-term relationships are dynamic, and myths only serve to create unnecessary pressure. Honest communication, ongoing self-awareness, and redefining societal narratives are key to sustaining a healthy, passionate love life as the years go by. References Basson, R. (2001). Using a different model for female sexual response to address women’s problematic low sexual desire. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 27(5), 395–403. https://doi.org/10.1080/009262301753148637 Baumeister, R. F., Catanese, K. R., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Is there a gender difference in strength of sex drive? Personality and Social Psychology Review, 5(3), 242–273. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327957PSPR0503_5 Bogaert, A. F. (2004). Asexuality: Prevalence and associated factors. The Journal of Sex Research, 41(3), 279–287. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224490409552235 Hamilton, L. D., & Meston, C. M. (2013). Chronic stress and sexual function in women. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 42(7), 1349–1359. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-012-0044-0 Leitenberg, H., & Henning, K. (1995). Sexual fantasy. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 469–496. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.117.3.469 Lindau, S. T., Schumm, L. P., Laumann, E. O., Levinson, W., O’Muircheartaigh, C. A., & Waite, L. J. (2007). A study of sexuality and health among older adults. New En

This week we discuss the disturbingly frequent occurrence of men taking credit for women’s academic, scientific, and entrepreneurial work. It’s so common, in fact, that the phenomenon has a name : The Matilda Effect. Join us as we explore this topic and look at some of the notable women who have had their work stolen. Let’s give credit back to these amazing inventors and creators. Show Notes Key Topics: Women in science and art who were erased or underrecognized The Matilda effect and gender bias in history Stories of women like Hedy Lamarr, Mary Curie, and Artemisia Gentileschi The importance of acknowledging women's contributions to science and culture Chapters: 00:00 Trolls and Feedback: Embracing Criticism 00:12 The Matilda Effect: Women in Science 04:47 Introduction to the Podcast Theme 04:58 Introduction and Light Banter 05:08 Historical Context and Examples of the Matilda Effect 07:56 The Matilda Effect and Historical Erasure 10:01 Women in Science: Unrecognized Contributions 12:50 The Legacy of Muleva Maric 15:41 Hollywood's Role in Highlighting Women's Contributions 17:19 Hedy Lamarr: Beauty and Brilliance 20:29 The Underappreciation of Women in History 23:04 The Impact of Role Models on Women in STEM 25:46 Artistic Contributions of Women: Artemisia Gentileschi 28:17 The Struggles of Female Artists and Writers 31:10 The Fight for Recognition and Credit 34:08 The Legacy of Women in Arts and Literature 44:36 Introduction and Context of the Conversation 44:51 The Impact of Social Media and Audience Engagement 47:27 Celebrating Women in Journalism: Nellie Bly 50:24 Athletic Achievements and Gender Inequality: Allison Felix 52:14 Historical Erasure and the Matilda Effect 55:06 The Role of Men in Feminism and Acknowledgment of Contributions References: Abrahams, Harold Maurice. “Allyson Felix | Medals, Olympics, Biography, Nike, & Facts.” Britannica, 10 January 2026, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Allyson-Felix. Accessed 9 February 2026. Cobb, Mathew, and Nathaniel Comfort. “What Rosalind Franklin Truly Contributed to the Discovery of DNA's Structure.” Nature, Springer Nature, 25 4 2023, https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-01313-5. Gage, Matilda Joslyn. “Woman as an Inventor.” Ester Lianawati, Northern University of Iowa, 17 October 2019, https://esterlianawati.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/woman-as-inventor.pdf. Accessed 31 January 2026. Gage, Matilda Joslyn. “Woman as Inventor.” Collection Development Department, New York, Harvard Library, 1870, Persistent Link https://nrs.lib.harvard.edu/urn-3:fhcl:453551 Description Gage, Matilda Joslyn. Woman as inventor. [New York State?: s.n.], 1870. Repository Collection Development Department. Widener Library. HCL Institution Harvard University Accessed 01 . Gagnon, Pauline. “The Forgotten Life of Einstein’s First Wife, Mileva Marić.” Scientific American, 19 December 2016, https://www.scientificamerican.com/blog/guest-blog/the-forgotten-life-of-einsteins-first-wife/. Accessed 1 February 2026. Kaplan, Judith. “Francis Crick, Rosalind Franklin, James Watson, and Maurice Wilkins.” Science History Institute, 8 September 2025, https://www.sciencehistory.org/education/scientific-biographies/francis-crick-rosalind-franklin-james-watson-and-maurice-wilkins/. Accessed 31 January 2026. Krichbaum, Emily. “Alice Ball.” National Women's History Museum, https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/alice-ball. Kuiper, Kathleen, and Jennifer Birkett. “Colette | French Writer & Feminist Icon.” Britannica, 24 January 2026, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Colette. Accessed 10 February 2026. Lamm, Lisa. “The Matilda Effect: How Women Are Becoming Invisible in Science.” Lost Women of Science, 10 February 2023, https://www.lostwomenofscience.org/news-events/the-matilda-effect-how-women-are-becoming-invisible-in-science. Accessed 31 January 2026. Lee, Jane J. “6 Women Scientists Who Were Snubbed Due to Sexism.” National Geographic,

Today's episode explores the legendary Pirate Queens, Sayyida Al Hurra, known as the Queen of the Fog and Grace O’Malley who defied traditional gender roles in their times. The discussion delves into these women's strategic prowess, self-determination, and the political dynamics of their times. Hosts Zab, Jen and Kori reflect on themes of power, betrayal, and legacy. Emphasizing how these stories resonate through folklore and history, highlighting the challenges faced by these powerful women and the necessity for their stories to be told. Show Notes Takeaways: Sayyida was known as the Queen of the Fog, symbolizing her intellect. She strategically timed her raids with the morning fog. Her marriage to the Sultan was a significant power move. Sayyida's actions led to her overthrow by her son-in-law. She declared a curse on the city that betrayed her. The story of Sayyida blends documented truth and myth. Her legacy continues to be discussed centuries later. Powerful women often face betrayal from their own systems. Sayyida's reign lasted approximately 17 years. The impact of her rule is still debated today. Chapters: 00:00 The Impact of Supportive Parenting 04:51 Sayidda Al Hurra: The Free Lady of the Sea 23:56 Grace O’Malley : The Irish Pirate Queen 26:39 The Rise of a Sea Queen 33:14 The Folklore of Grace O’Malley 38:21 Grace’s Political Maneuvering 42:04 Meeting Queen Elizabeth I 46:26 Legacy Recognition of Grace O’Malley 46:56 Exploring the Importance of Historical Female Figures 49:42 Defying Gender Norms: Grace and Sayidda 52:30 Legacies of Grace and Sayidda 56:26 The Importance of Rediscovering Women’s Stories References: Chambers, A. (1979). Granuaile: The Life and Times of Grace O’Malley, c.1530–1603. Dublin: Wolfhound Press. Matar, N. (2009). Europe Through Arab Eyes, 1578–1727. New York: Columbia University Press. Mernissi, F. (1993). The Forgotten Queens of Islam. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press. National Folklore Collection (Ireland). (1930s–present). Oral tradition archives on Irish female leaders and maritime folklore. University College Dublin. Howth Castle Archives. (16th–20th century). Records of the St. Lawrence family and Irish hospitality customs. Al-Nasiri, A. (1894). Kitab al-Istiqsa li-Akhbar duwal al-Maghrib al-Aqsa. Rabat: Moroccan Royal Archives. Patai, R. (1994). The Myth of the Jewish Race. Detroit: Wayne State University Press. (Contextual parallels on oral myth transmission.) Simms, K. (1987). From Kings to Warlords: The Changing Political Structure of Gaelic Ireland in the Later Middle Ages. Woodbridge: Boydell Press. Artwork & Map Disclosure Statement: This episode of Pirate Queens uses visual artwork and maps that have been generated specifically for this project using artificial intelligence tools. All images were created as original works and are not reproductions, scans, tracings, or edits of copyrighted images, museum holdings, textbooks, or modern publications. disclosure is provided to ensure transparency, ethical use of visual materials, and clarity for collaborators, platforms, and audiences. Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : mofcrones@gmail.com Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.

Today's conversation with hosts Kori, Zab, and Jen, delves into the complex relationship between body image, mental health, and societal pressures, particularly in the context of diet culture and the impact of the pandemic on eating disorders. The speakers discuss the evolution of diet culture, the rise of orthorexia, and the challenges faced by individuals, especially women, in navigating health choices amidst societal expectations. They also highlight the importance of self-acceptance and the need for a more inclusive understanding of beauty and health. Show Notes: Takeaways The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards can lead to mental health issues. Serena Williams' choice to use GLP-1 medication highlights the complexities of health decisions. Diets are often designed to fail, leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy. The pandemic has exacerbated eating disorders, particularly among young girls. Orthorexia is an unhealthy obsession with eating pure or healthy foods. Self-acceptance is crucial in combating the negative effects of diet culture. The wellness industry often promotes unrealistic standards of health and beauty. Access to healthy food options remains a classist issue. The moralization of food can lead to anxiety and guilt around eating. Community and support are essential for fostering a healthy relationship with food. Chapters 00:00 Audience Engagement and Future Plans 00:14 Health Challenges and Personal Stories 01:05 The Painful Journey: Kidney Stones and Resilience 05:25 Diet Culture: A Historical Perspective 07:56 The Impact of the Pandemic on Health and Diet 17:19 Emerging Trends in Clean Eating and Wellness 19:23 Exploring Biohacking and Wellness Tracking 23:12 The Impact of the Pandemic on Eating Disorders 30:34 Understanding Orthorexia and Its Implications 34:18 The Evolution of Body Positivity 37:44 The Pressure of Postpartum Body Image 41:05 Embracing Aging and Body Transformation 44:26 Intersectionality in Body Image and Health 48:06The Appeal and Risks of GLP-1 Medications 55:02 Understanding the Side Effects of Weight Loss Drugs 56:34The Ozempic Debate: Health Risks vs. Weight Loss 58:28 Long-Term Effects and Unknown Risks 01:00:31 Ethical Considerations in Weight Loss Medications 01:03:08 Access and Coverage: Who Gets Ozempic? 01:05:04 The Bigger Picture: Health Beyond Weight 01:09:33 Community, Connection, and Holistic Health 01:09:33 Body Neutrality and Health at Every Size 01:11:55 The Role of Food and Emotional Well-Being 01:13:46 Wrapping Up: A Call for Compassionate Care References ABC News. (2025, August 31). As athletes like Serena Williams promote Ozempic, experts say our obsession with weight loss is worse than ever. ABC News. ABC Cantor, C. (2024, October 16). The rise of Ozempic for weight loss sparks ethical concerns. Columbia University Department of Psychiatry. columbiapsychiatry.org Coombs, D. S., & Cassilo, D. (2017). Athletes and/or activists: LeBron James and Serena Williams's framing in sports media. Howard Journal of Communications, 28(4), 367–384. https://doi.org/10.1080/10646175.2017.1315681 Critical discourse analysis of social media advertisements for GLP‑1 receptor agonist weight loss drugs: implications for public perceptions and health communication. (2025). BMC Public Health, 25, Article 24197. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889‑025‑24197‑8 BioMed Central Healthline. (2025). Why Serena Williams went public about losing weight with Zepbound. Healthline. Healthline Inequalities in the provision of GLP‑1 receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity. (2023). [Journal]. PubMed Central. PMC

Join us as we unpack the intersection of women’s fashion, societal expectations, and the impact of historical events and political influence on women’s clothing. Learn why we wear the clothes we do, how morals and politics affected what women were allowed to wear throughout history, and in what ways we are still controlled by these cultural biases. Listen along as we discuss women’s health, the rational dress movement, military uniforms, and pockets! Show Notes Takeaways: Fashion has often been a reflection of societal norms and expectations. The Rational Dress Movement aimed for practical and comfortable clothing for women. Pockets in women's clothing have historically been associated with rebellion and independence. Women's fashion has evolved significantly during times of war, reflecting their changing roles in society. The suffragette movement embraced pockets as symbols of empowerment and agency. Historical fashion trends often prioritized aesthetics over practicality for women. The chaos of ADHD and menopause can influence personal experiences and perspectives on life. Women's clothing has been a political statement throughout history, often tied to social movements. The evolution of women's clothing continues to be influenced by cultural and societal changes. Understanding the history of women's fashion can provide insight into contemporary issues of gender and identity. Chapters: 00:00 The Chaos of Everyday Life 00:36 The Politics of Women’s Fashion 05:57 Historical Context of Women’s Clothing 09:22 The Corset Controversy: Beauty vs Health 13:27 Women in War: Fashion and Morale During the Civil War 17:29 The Rational Dress Movement: A Call for Practicality 22:25 World Wars and Women’s Roles: Shifts in Fashion and Duty 27:53 The Roaring Twenties: Liberation and the Flapper Era 30:25 Post-War Gender Roles and Domesticity 33:12 Fashion Evolution: From Corsets to Pants 36:00 The Significance of Pockets in Women’s Fashion 41:24 The Historical Context of Women’s Clothing and Pocket 44:00 The Symbolism of Pockets and Gender Policing 49:03 The Politics of Pockets 51:44 Uniforms and Gendered Design 54:50 The Struggle for COmfort and Functionality 56:17 Historical Perspectives on Women’s Clothing 59:06 Marginalized Voices in Fashion History 01:01:34 The Future of Women’s Fashion References: Engel, K. L. The Rational Dress Reform Movement. Amazing Women in History. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://amazingwomeninhistory.com/the-rational-dress-reform-movement/ Forman-Sarno, O. (2024, 2 7). Scandalous or Progressive? A History of Victorian Dress Reform. The Science Survey. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://thesciencesurvey.com/spotlight/2024/02/07/scandalous-or-progressive-a-history-of-victorian-dress-reform/ How Clothes Rationing Affected Fashion In World War 2. (n.d.). Imperial War Museums. Retrieved September 2, 2025, from https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/how-clothes-rationing-affected-fashion-in-the-second-world-war Maisey, S. (2025, August 21). The surprisingly political history of pockets in women's clothing | The National. The National News. Retrieved September 2, 2025, from https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/luxury/2025/08/21/the-surprisingly-political-history-of-pockets-in-womens-clothing/ Trousers as women's clothing. (2025, 4 12). Wikipedia. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trousers_as_women%27s_clothing Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : mofcrones@gmail.com Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.

In this episode Zab, Jen, and Kori will look at one of the deepest cultural wounds in human history: The erasure of the goddess. Across cultures, we see patterns of women being recast as sinners, temptresses, or being treated like they are of lesser importance, while their true roles as leaders, healers, warriors, and teachers were erased. We will discuss the negative impacts of this erasure on both the masculine and the feminine. Show notes: Summary: In this conversation, Zab, Kori and Jen explore the theme of the erasure of the goddess and the historical vilification of women in religious narratives. They delve into the story of Mary Magdalene, discussing her misrepresentation as a prostitute and the implications of this narrative on women’s roles in society. The conversation highlights the impact of patriarchal structures on female figures throughout history, examining how women have been erased or vilified in various cultural contexts. The hosts also discuss the importance of reclaiming female authority and the need to recognize matriarchal societies that celebrated the divine feminine. Takeaways: The erasure of the goddess has deep cultural roots. Mary Magdalene was misrepresented by the church. Patriarchal narratives have historically vilified women. The church has begun to acknowledge women's roles. Women in history have often been erased or vilified. Eve's name signifies life, yet she is blamed for sin. Cultural narratives shape our understanding of women. The divine feminine is essential for balance in society. Matriarchal societies existed and were egalitarian. Reclaiming female authority is crucial for modern feminism. Chapters: 00:00 Unexpected Mishaps and Humor 02:57 The Erasure of the Goddess Intro 05:49 Mary Magdalane: A misunderstood Figure 08:41 The Impact of Patriarchy on Women’s Roles 11:45 Reclaiming Spiritual Authority 14:41 The Journey of Understanding Religion 19:27 Political Agenda of the Church 21:43 The Canon and its Implications 25:08 The Search for Missing Manuscripts 28:22 Women in History: Erasure and Vilification 33:52 Matriarchal Societies and Women Warriors Reference: Eisler, Riane. *The Chalice and the Blade: Our History, Our Future*. Harper & Row, 1987. Federici, Silvia. *Caliban and the Witch: Women, the Body and Primitive Accumulation*. Autonomedia, 2004. Gimbutas, Marija. *The Civilization of the Goddess: The World of Old Europe*. HarperSanFrancisco, 1991. King, Karen L. *The Gospel of Mary of Magdala: Jesus and the First Woman Apostle*. Polebridge Press, 2003. Lerner, Gerda. *The Creation of Patriarchy*. Oxford University Press, 1986. Rich, Adrienne. *Midnight Salvage: Poems 1995–1998*. W.W. Norton, 1999. Watterson, Meggan. *Mary Magdalene Revealed: The First Apostle, Her Feminist Gospel, & the Christianity We Haven’t Tried Yet*. Hay House, 2019. Hooks, Bell. *The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love*. Atria Books, 2004. de Beauvoir, Simone. *The Second Sex*. Translated by Constance Borde and Sheila Malovany-Chevallier, Vintage, 2011. Council on Foreign Relations. *Women’s Participation in Peace Processes*. Council on Foreign Relations, 2022. United Nations. *Preventing Conflict, Transforming Justice, Securing the Peace: A Global Study on the Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325*. UN Women, 2015. Gregory I (Pope). Homily 33, 591 CE. (Earliest source linking Mary Magdalene with the 'sinful woman' of Luke). The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. National Council of Churches, 1989. *Homebrewed Christianity* Podcast. Interview with Elizabeth A. Johnson on Feminist Theology. Homebrewed Christianity, 2017. *The Woman King*. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, performances Contact Information: FindMurder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Join hosts Zabrina, Jen, and Kori as they delve into the chilling tale of Elizabeth Bathory, the infamous Blood Countess of the 1600s. Explore the blend of historical truths, myths, and superstitions surrounding her life, and uncover the political and social dynamics that fuelled her legend. This Halloween edition promises a captivating journey through history's dark corners. Don't miss out on this intriguing episode of "Murder of Crones." Show Notes: Keywords: Elizabeth Bathory, Blood Countess, historical myths, Hungary, nobility, witchcraft, gender bias, political intrigue, folklore, true crime Summary: This episode delves into the life legacy of Elizabeth Bathory, often referred to as the Blood Countess. The discussion explores the historical context of her life. The investigations and accusations against her, the myths and legends that have arisen over time, and the political and social factors that may have influenced her story. The speakers analyze the blurred lines between fact and fiction, ultimately questioning the veracity of the claims against her and the motivations behind them. Takeaways: Elizabeth Bathory was a powerful noblewoman in Hungary Her life was marked by accusation of extreme cruelty and murder. Investigations into her actions were influenced by political motives. The number of her alleged victims vary widely in historical accounts. Bathory’s story has been embellished over time, leading to myths. She was never formally tried for her alleged crimes. The context of gender and power dynamics played a significant role in her story. Many of the legends surrounding her are unsubstantiated. Her legacy continues to be a topic of fascination and debate. The historical record is often murky, making it difficult to discern truth from myth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Setup 13:48 The Rise of Power and Cruelty 16:15 Escalation of Torture and Murmurs of Disapperance 18:58 The Dark Nature of Human Behaviour 22:11 Elizabeth Bathory’s Rise to Infamy 25:06 Investigating the Accusations 27:46 The Trial and its Complications 35:30 The Dark Legacy of Elizabeth Bathory 38:56 Myth vs Reality: The Truth Behind the Legend 42:49 The Origins of the Blood Countess Myth 46:58 Political Intrigue and Gender Dynamics 51:23 The Intersection of Legend and Historical Fact 52:43 Exploring the Story of Elizabeth Bathory 54:26 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments Referrence Craft, Kimberly L. Infamous Lady: The True Story of Countess Erzsébet Báthory. Academia Historical Press, 2009. Craft, Kimberly L. “Letters from Cachtice: New Findings in the Báthory Archives.” Central European Review of History, Vol. 3 (2012). “Elizabeth Báthory.” (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Báthory “Elizabeth Báthory Facts.” (n.d.). Elizabeth Bathory: The Blood Countess. http://elizabethbathory.net Folkloric/Secondary “Blood bath” legend first appeared in Valentinus Rozsnyai’s pamphlet Tragoedia von der Bößen Gräfin Elisabeth Báthory zu Csejthe (1729). History Collection. (n.d.). The Real Countess Dracula: 12 Facts about the Life and Crimes of Elizabeth Bathory. http://historycollection.com History Tools. (n.d.). The Blood Countess: Separating Fact from Fiction in the Case of Elizabeth Bathory. http://historytools.org Letters from the Báthory Family Archive (Nyírbátor Collection, 16th c.) — referenced in Craft (2009). Folkloric/Unverified Accounts – Rumor of a peasant lover and secret pregnancy (László Turoczy, Magyar Népmondák a Felvidékr 1908). Magyari, István. Letter to the Palatine of Hungary (Miklós Zrinyi), ca. 1602–1604. Hungarian State Archive Ref. HS-Báthory-1604/7. Nagy, László. The Blood Countess of Hungary. Budapest Historical Society, 1895 (reprint 1962). Pálffy, Géza. The Ottoman–Habsburg Frontier and the Kingdom of Hungary (1526–1608). Cambridge University Press, 2000. Penrose, Valentine. The Bloody Countess: Atrocities of Erzsebet Bathory. 1963. Racz, István. “Witchcraft and Class Politics in 1

Buckle up for a wild ride through the annals of medical history as we tackle the curious case of hysteria—a ”condition” that had doctors scratching their heads and women rolling their eyes. Discover how the so-called treatments led to the invention of the vibrator, turning a medical misstep into a modern-day marvel. It’s a tale of misguided medicine, gender politics, and a gadget that went from the doctor’s office to the bedside table.