Mavens of Misdeeds

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 certain famous disappearance of two Princes and also common methods of torture in England. We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered on the show.  Want to be a gues...

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 Jen WILL learn Greek mythology!  She brings the fascinating new research into an age old question:  Did Atlantis ever exist? We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered o...

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 being revealed! Source material for this episode-Emeric Spooner's book "Sarah Ware Revisited". Yasmine takes us to Dudleytown, Connecticut to a village that has become a ghost town.  The town's namesake, the Dudley family have suffered the effects of a curse place...

The Fates and Sarah Ware 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 first half of the episode.  Then we dive into a historical true crime from 1898 in Bucksport, Maine that remains unsolved despite trials and multiple shady suspects.  This one is a doozy with a severed head, courtroom drama, a town-wide conspiracy, and a haunting.  ...

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 first half of the episode.  Then we dive into a historical true crime from 1898 in Bucksport, Maine that remains unsolved despite trials and multiple shady suspects.  This one is a doozy with a severed head, courtroom drama, a town-wide conspiracy, and a haunting.  ...

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 Colorado made even more famous by Stephen King's The Shining. Spooky season is upon us-Reach out and let us know your personal encounters with the paranormal, or a local legend in your town! We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/parano...

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 defaced following a curse from a witch he had condemned to death.  Also in the Bucksport region is the mystery of the Red Paint People of Maine who seemingly disappeared 3800 years ago, leaving mysterious graves full of crushed hematite.  Who were they, and wh...

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 century apothecaries that provided many "cures" for common ailments via arsenic and other poisonous concoctions, but also provided people like Elizabeth a means to dispatch with those that did not meet her expectations via poisoning.  It was also rumored that sh...

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 watching over their land?  Or is there a more sinister reason behind their presence, like aliens studying our planet and gathering information? Jen brings a tale from a recent trip to coastal NC called The Devil's Hoofprints from Richard Walser's book "North Carol...

An Outer Banks, NC Legend/The Watcher

Lochness Monster/Tatterhood, a Norwegian Fairytale

Norse Mythology/Raw Headed Bloody Bones

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 tactics used to deceive were impressive.  The movement also had famous historical figures like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle backing research and conducting in serious studies of the most famous psychics.  Join us as we discuss this fascinating time in history. Em...

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 disappearance/death?  Was it simply the weather or could pirates be to blame?  Yasmine completes our otherworldly discussion with spine tingling tales about The Ladies of White that appear throughout the world.  Don't forget to check your back seat and NEVER pick up hit...

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 your sheets on Friday, or perhaps you are the reason your baseball team hasn't made the playoffs in years.  Or maybe you didn't know you needed the sweat from a corpse to cure what ails you.   We have more information than you ever knew you needed to navigate these...

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 documented incidents dating from 14th century all the way up to 2014 in the good old USA.  Suffice it to say that Edgar Allen Poe was drawing from newspaper accounts from the day...eek! I hope you will join me in welcoming my new co-host Yasmine on 7/12/22.  New episodes ...

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!  If you find yourself unable to churn butter or perform other household chores you may have unwittingly adopted this charming little fellow.  However, there is an upside-you never have to claim responsibility/blame the dog etc... for any unpleasant smells you ...

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 Bloodsucker".   Ludwig had a unique appearance, a tendency to wander around at night, and a big mouth.  But was Ludwig just  misunderstood?  Put on your Van Helsing cap and decide for yourself, just be warned that while most details of Ludwig's life are well documented, his ...

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 Bloodsucker".   Ludwig had a unique appearance, a tendency to wander around at night, and a big mouth.  But was Ludwig just  misunderstood?  Put on your Van Helsing cap and decide for yourself, just be warned that while most details of Ludwig's life are well documented, his ...

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!  This is a bonkers story about a normal guy, Elmer McCurdy, and his evil plan to pull off one of the biggest train robberies in history.  Alas, it was not meant to be $46 in cash and some bobbles were not exactly what Elmer and his crew had in mind.  However, Elmer...

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 Alice Kyteler the victim of jealous neighbors and a religious zealot, a serial killer, or a witch concocting potions and spells to increase her wealth? We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales...

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 force.  The Inuit live in a harsh, unforgiving part of the world, and they have the creature to match in order to keep their children away from the water unsupervised.  We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales...

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 supposed connection to a very dark time in history! We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered on the show.  Want to be a guest?  Let us know by connecting with us...

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 supposed connection to a very dark time in history! We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered on the show.  Want to be a guest?  Let us know by connecting with us...

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 burning questions: Why is January 1st the new year?  Why do we kiss at midnight?  What do the Roman's have to do with it?  The Vikings?  The Civil War?! We wish you a very happy New Year!  Good night and joy be to you all... We love to hear from our listeners!...

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 the 16th or 17th century.  Though the song itself was not intended to be a Christmas carol, instead it was a melody for the aristocracy to dance to.  However, it has become synonymous with Christmas, and we think it is lovely.  Enjoy! Music: https://www.f...

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 enforcer.  If you've been naughty this year you may get more than coal as punishment! We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered on the show.  Want to be a guest?  Let ...

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 enforcer.  If you've been naughty this year you may get more than coal as punishment! We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what myths/lore/legends/paranormal/folktales/fables/fairy tales you would like to hear covered on the show.  Want to be a guest?  Let ...

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, and we provide some compelling reasons to believe the Kraken wasn't a myth, just currently extinct!  Disclaimer:  We formed these conclusions under the influence of a certain rum beverage bearing the same name. We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what...

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, and we provide some compelling reasons to believe the Kraken wasn't a myth, just currently extinct!  Disclaimer:  We formed these conclusions under the influence of a certain rum beverage bearing the same name. We love to hear from our listeners!  Tell us what...

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 hit the high seas to exact revenge against the French monarchy for her husband's unlawful execution!  Walk the plank with us as we discuss this noblewoman turned pirate and back to nobility.  We also separate the fact from fiction regarding pirate lore and lege...

Interview with Soul Sisters Paranormal

In this episode we talk with Kristy, a founding member of Soul Sisters Paranormal.  Make sure you check them out at  https://www.soulsistersparanormal.com where you can watch videos of their investigations, you will not be disappointed!  Join us as Kristy lets us in on some behind the scenes moments from a sampling of her group's many paranormal investigations.  We also discuss the equipment and methods they use as investigators to make contact and gather evidence of the spirit world. Foll...

Samhain with a side of turnips

In this episode we discuss the Irish folktale Stingy Jack, sure to change the way you view pumpkin carving!  We also do a major disservice to turnips and beets, but do acknowledge they are waaay scarier than pumpkins, especially when you carve them.  Also very scary this episode is published unedited with all of our um er ah so mistakes.  Not necessarily something we will do all the time, but after a rough couple of months for the Mavens we enjoyed letting our freaky flags fly! Follow us! F...

Mainiaxe: The Gordon Hill Murders

Needless to say I am very proud of myself for the title of this episode.  It sums up the entire episode in one fell swoop.  I can't stop with the axe references, but I can sense eyes are rolling back in your heads.  This episode is a historical true crime from Thorndike Maine which involves a horrific axe murderer who seemed to care more for furniture than people.  This story has it all:  romance, jealousy, anonymous letters, a seriously dysfunctional family and ridiculously complicated exec...

Werewolves! Cryptozoology! Lyncanthropy! Oh my!

Team Jacob this is the episode for you!  That's right we are talking werewolves, possibly more than you ever wanted to know.  But there is no silver bullet to stop us from taking a deep dive into the world of lycanthropy and cryptozoology.  It's  a full moon in here every night! Follow us! Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MavensofMisdeeds Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mavensofmisdeeds/ The Interwebs:  https://www.mavensofmisdeeds.com

Preta and Daayan: Lakes of pus and the evil eye

The Lost Episode!  We are not kidding when we say that this is the episode "THEY" did not want you to hear.  After recording the entire episode twice we get a tinge unhinged.  We are still excited to bring you this episode about two fascinating folktales from India.  We have another hungry entity, Preta and Daayan a succubus/witch.  Be careful, you may lose two months of time as we did!  Enjoy... Follow us!  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MavensofMisdeeds Instagram:  https://www.insta...

Nachzehrer: A German Vampire/Ghoul/Zombie/Creature/Thingy

In this episode we discuss Nachzehrer a vampire/creature/zombie from Germany.  Trust us you don’t want this creature hypnotizing you with its eyes.  Far from being weirdly sensual as we are accustomed, this vampire is more like Nosferatu all icky and seriously disturbing.  Nachzehrer also lacks table manners, eats like a pig, and sometimes gets so hangry it gnaws on its own appendages before leaving the grave to come after family members one by one.  Ewww.     Have a story you want us to c...

From Russia with...terrible accents, but lots of love!

Folks, we had strong drinks for a strong language but it wasn't Vodka that sent us off the rails. For this fiasco we would like to thank Tequila.  In this episode we discuss the folklore legends  Baba Yaga and Koschei the Deathless.  So, hop on your mortar and pestle and set your forest house to spin cycle or, in the spirit of Koschei, get naked and ride your faithful steed.  No matter how you travel, we think you will enjoy this tale of two feisty and complex characters that appear in many ...

A is for Arsenic, E is for Effort, F is for France!

Ma cherie!  French listeners we have a strange tale for you as promised.  What's a girl gotta do to get ahead in this world?  Well, in the 1600's you poisoned your way through the family tree of course!  At least that's what  Marie-Madeleine d'Aubray, Marquise de Brinvilliers set out to do, with a few practice runs in the local hospital.  In this episode we will discuss the life of a French aristocrat who could always use just a little more excitation.   Every effort was made to maintain the...

Ho! Ho! Holy ghost stories!

Unlike the USPS our Christmas episode is right on time!  Listen in as the mavens discuss the forgotten Victorian tradition of telling ghost stories during the Christmas season.  If you thought Dickens' A Christmas Carol was a one off, well you would be dead wrong!  In this episode we have a special treat for your podcast stocking.  Put on your cozy socks, spike the egg nog (trust us, you'll need to) and let the Christmas tree light the room.  Megan reads "How He Left the Hotel" by Louisa Bal...

We aren't afraid of ghosts!

A continuation of episode two where we tell you stories of personal experiences with the supernatural.  Megan tells her story of a cat loving cigar smoking spirit and Jen just wants to know where her forks are and why her Gin bottles keep flying around.  Listen in as we discuss personal experiences that have left us convinced that we CAN carry out our threats to haunt loved (and not loved) ones after death.  We would love to hear your stories!  Let us know your spookiest moments:  mavensofmi...

Prospecting while hangry and child specters galore!

A Colorado cannibal or maybe not and one of the most haunted places in the world... Also, a lot of forks (see what we did there) in the road to get to the end.  Join us as we navigate many twists and turns that some may call digressing, as we bring you the curious case of Alfred Packer and the Waverly Hills Sanatorium.  This episode is so full of information we had to save some for a BONUS episode that's launching next week!   Be sure to follow Mavens of Misdeeds on Instagram and Facebook an...

Witches, spirits, haints, and 33 cent

Join us for our first episode where we discuss the Salem witch trials and two of the most haunted castles in Scotland and Ireland. There is tomfoolery a plenty and curious discussions about witches, haints, and 50 cent...yeah, we still aren't sure how that came about. Anyway, we had a blast and we hope you get a good laugh and maybe learn more than you ever wanted to know about the Salem witch trials, ghosts of Crathe Castle in Scotland, and Leap Castle in Ireland. Follow us on social media ...