ShortHand: Haitian Vodou

ShortHand: Haitian Vodou

From RedHanded by RedHanded

May 1, 2026 · 24 min · Episode 203

About this episode

This episode explores the complexities and realities of Haitian Vodou, contrasting it with Hollywood's portrayal.

Zombies, incantations and dolls full of pins… the version of voodoo that most of us get has been suffused with decades of Hollywood magic, and a dusting of light xenophobia. But the reality of Haitian vodou is much more complex – and way more fascinating. So, how did slaves reconcile their own folklore and religions, with the Catholicism that colonisers were forcing down their throats? Who are the main lwa – or spirits – of vodou? And how can an offering of black coffee, rum and cigars help you to commune with the dead? Find out in this week’s ShortHand! -- Patreon - Ad-free & Bonus Episodes YouTube - Full-length Video Episodes TikTok / Instagram

People in this episode

Host: RedHanded

Topics covered

  • Haitian Vodou
  • zombies
  • incantations
  • spirits
  • Catholicism
  • folklore
  • offerings

Keywords

  • Haitian Vodou
  • zombies
  • Catholicism
  • spirits
  • offerings
  • folklore
  • incantations

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Haitian Vodou

More episodes of RedHanded

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the RedHanded podcast page.