Bewitched Banter: Recent Episodes
Amy
Happy Thanksgiving all! This time of year during grade school you’ve likely heard all about the Pilgrims landing on Plymouth Rock and then later all about the next colony of Jamestown, VA. But did you know before these two Thanksgiving-themed colonies, that Roanoke came first? Set off what is the modern day Outer Banks of North Carolina, 115 colonists seemingly vanished. 400 years later no one, not even scholars, scientists, or archeologists have a plausible answer for where these men, women, and children may have gone. Was is the weather, infighting within the colony, or perhaps something more sinister? Tell us what you think!
We all learned about the Witch Trials in history class, but did you know that Werewolf Trials were a thing too? The cannibal Peter Stumpp, who was nicknamed the Werewolf Killer, was the catalyst for the hysteria that took over Europe. This caused several townies to fear that they were going to be eaten by a werewolf. He is known to be one of the most gruesome serial killers of all time.
Holdel” onto your hats for this one as Krista brings us back to darkness territory on this Haunted Hollywood case. Many of us have heard of the horrors of Elizabeth Short’s murder in the 1940s and know it as one of LA’s most gruesome crimes. In today’s episode, we go to the seedy side of the City of Angels which ironically is home to many more demons than angels – including the most likely murder suspect of Short – Dr. George Hodel. While the Short case remains unsolved with the California’s District Attorney’s Office, the Bewitches are pretty damn sure Hodel was the horrible human who killed the Black Dahlia (and several other women). Do you think it was him and are you shocked he got away with murder?
OMG, exorcisms are so hot right now?! But Amy's not invited to Krista's big exorcism bash. Just kidding. Amy does explain the demons away and why this religious Rite, is actually scary for those who truly believe in its proclaimed salvation.
We often avoid talking about death because it is taboo and not one of the happiest of topics. Our traditional burial processes are having a devastating impact on our climate crisis. It leads to 780,000,0000 tons of carbon dioxide being added to the atmosphere on a yearly basis in the United States. What if we told you that there is a greener and more sustainable way? Tune in to learn about human composting and you may be surprised on how your views may be changed after learning about this new option. It may sound radical but this option will allow our loved ones that have passed leave less of a carbon footprint and it will help future generations have a happier and healthier planet.
We all know Trump worships the ground that he walks on regardless of which side of the aisle you are on. The bewitches aren't surprised that every tactical move he has made regarding religion has been a political play that has led to evangelical beliefs taking over the Supreme Court. Being one of the first presidents since Eisenhower to switch his religion while in the White House was just a play to get us that much closer to building an America that was built on laws based on the Bible. Scary? We think so. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
To reference the Bewitches’ very first TikTok, do you believe in the spooky and paranormal, like Krista or do you think it’s all utter B.S., like Amy? Ever wonder if there’s a connection between your paranormal and political beliefs? Turns out there might be according to a 2018 paper by Tyler Ferrari called "Paranormal Beliefs and their Effect on American Fears and Political Identification.” His results might surprise you! The data certainly surprised the Bewitches. Krista breaks it down for the other non-science folks out there. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Ever think you might need a "get out of jail free card?" Next time, try using the Ouija Board just like the two POWs (Elias and Cedric) that Amy covered in today's episode. The two men became unlikely friends while imprisoned during WWI and hatched a plot using the very popular "paranormal" board game to get out. Did they survive and did the spirit of Sally help them? You'll have to listen to find out. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
We're going to take you back on this one -- to episode one, psychics and tarot history. Back in the day using psychics or "seers" to invade or retreat was a world war playbook for ancient rulers. Today, the tactic to play on or exploit cultural superstitions is known as psychological warfare. While it has been mostly dismissed by many as pseudoscience, the U.S. military had (Krista is convinced still have) an entire army of psychic spies to investigate all sorts of paranormal phenomena like ESP, mind control, UFOs, and crop circles. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Ever wonder if Karens existed in prehistoric times? The Bewitches think they might have. In this episode, Krista takes you back to the origin of Ginni Thomas, an attorney and well known controversial Republican activist. We’ll just call her the OG Karen. Ginni also happens to be the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas [ummm….] conflicts of interest, anyone? Once upon a time Ginni found herself in a cult called Lifespring. We kinda wanted to root for her after her escape and for all of her work in anti-cult activism during the 80’s. Unfortunately, as her recent emails and text messages show, she’s using her power and influence in Washington to continually spread election-fraud conspiracies right out of the QAnon playbook. So much for being “deprogrammed.” Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Even Krista knows that QAnon is clownin’ with their outlandish beliefs. Amy takes us through this cult’s wild history that may stem from shades of the Satanic Panic. Besides Krista’s deep coulrophobia (fear of clowns), Amy shares how QAnon bubbled up into the mainstream and why that is so damn scary for the masses, and especially American democracy. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
We ain’t afraid of no ghost….err..well Amy isn’t, but Krista sure is. This week the Bewitches swap cast with Tom and Anton of The Strange Brew Podcast, and just like the name suggests something strange was brewing, and so were our views on ghosts. 2 votes for hell yeah they exist from Tom and Krista and 2 votes for no effin’ way from Amy and Anton. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Today, the Bewitches are joined by special guest, Terina Moldanado. Terina is a Phoenix-based life coach, author, public speaker and general bad a* Btch giving us major Lizzo vibes. Terina bravely and candidly shares why she and her family left the Mormon Church and how her experiences led her to supporting other abuse survivors and anyone who has made the decision to leave a high-demand religion. If you’re seeking an extra boost or general support in all or any areas of your life find Terina at terinamaldonado.com.
Want to relive our Witching Hour History lesson on reincarnation? Well, here's your chance. Amy takes us through various cultural and religious beliefs on what it means to experience multiple lives.
---- Original Air Date 12/28/21 ---- Do You Believe In Life After Love? Krista really wants to after hearing Amy tell us all about different forms of reincarnation in Buddhism, Hinduism, and some indigenous beliefs around the world. We can't reincarnate your souls, but we can take you through this witching hour history. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
The Bewitches take you back to the dark world of cults. From the top TRIGGER Warning ⚠️ on mental health and suicide. This episode features YouTube influencer, Teal Swan, who gained fame or infamy as she used the video platform to encourage suicide among her thousands of followers. She now has a top 10 podcast with Gizmodo called The Gateway. Then Amy takes us to Tokyo covering the cult of Aum, who the Bewitches 1,000% consider terrorists who mass murdered innocent people riding Japanese subways.
Original Air Date // Nov. 9, 2021
Today the Bewitches cover the dark world of cults. Amy takes us through some background on what cults are and why they are so scary. Meanwhile, Krista is on an independent woman rant this episode as she covers the controversial YouTube influencer, Teal Swan. ⚠️TRIGGER Warning ⚠️ on mental health and suicide for all listeners. If you or anyone you know is experiencing with suicidal thoughts or expressed a desire to die by suicide, please call at 800-273-8255 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/. Finally, Amy brings us to Japan for the cult of Aum in Tokyo. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
After Dr. E's (OB/GYN MPH) interview last week on the aftermath of Roe, the Bewitches take you back to their episode on satanism covering Zeena Schreck, the daughter of "Father of Modern Satanism" and how how satanists did their damndest to save a woman's right to choose.
Original Episode aired: Jan. 20, 2022 On Tuesday, Amy gave us all the dirty deets on the "Father of Modern Satanism," Anton LaVey. While he was busy founding his unconventional religion, he wasted no time on throwing his three-year-old daughter, Zeena, to the fire with her globally broadcasted Satanic Baptism in 1967. Zeena Schreck may have come from "The Black House" of the "Black Pope," but today, she's one bad B*tch and Krista's kinda obsessed with her. Amy then shares how satanists may just be the ones who save Pro Choice. See how the Satanic Temple’s abortion rituals may stop the pulse of the Texas “heartbeat bill.”
Hi Bewitches – Before Amy and I get to the episode, we want to take a moment to address the June 24th, 2022 Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe versus Wade. This decision stripped away the right to have a safe and legal abortion.
Everyone should have the freedom to decide what’s best for themselves and their families, including when it comes to ending a pregnancy. This decision has dire consequences for individual health and safety, and could have harsh repercussions for other landmark decisions.
Restricting access to comprehensive reproductive care, including abortion, threatens the health and independence of all Americans.
Learn more by visiting podvoices.help. If you’re able to support others, please consider donating to Planned Parenthood.
Amy and I (and especially Dr. E - OBGYN) encourage you to speak up, take care, and spread the word.Final thank you to Arielle Nissenblatt of the EarBuds pod collective for starting this incredible movement.
What a week for women, are we right? The Bewitches are back with special guest Dr. E. (OB/GYN, MPH) to discuss the Supreme Court’s ruling to overrule Roe v. Wade. Dr. Sis/Dr. E shares what this means for women’s health, lives of our LGTBQ+ communities, and why this decision will have far greater fallout for so many people in this country. On the positive, we’re all moving to Mexico, which (SHOCKER) has far better laws on its books for both abortion and guns. Who knew?
NOTE: Dr. E is a Board Certified, licensed physician. Views discussed in this episode are Dr. E’s personal opinions do not represent the university hospital where she is employed. Consult your physician for medical advice and care.
On this week's episode, Amy takes listeners through the numbers of the largest global mail scam in history with numerology being complicit in the crime. Then saved by the bell, Krista's no math wiz, but Pythagorean Theorem and his cult conjur images of middle school math class.
The Bewitches return from their early summer vacations with a new format. This one is for you skeptics! Is numerology a science or pseudoscience? We'll let you do the math on this one.
The Bewitches wrap their three-part Hawaiian history series with two legends. Amy covers the Night Marchers. Krista covers the one of the many stories of Pele, the Fire and Volcano Goddess, feared and revered throughout Hawai'i and Polynesia. Mahalo!
On our second episode of this three part series on Hawaiian history, we're pleased to introduce you to Malia Sanders, Executive Director of the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association (NaHHA). Please, welcome Malia with all the aloha you've got. Mahalo!
What is some stuff you missed in history class? Well, for Krista, it was that Hawai'i was illegally annexed by the good 'ol U.S. of A. Though that's a dark spot on the island's history, the rest is quite beautiful. Dare we say, magical? Join us for part one of three on Hawaiian history and stories.
The second part of our collaboration with the Stupidest Podcast. We hand over the mic to Justin Vandeventer and Justin Rademacher and they each tell us a love story that involves a felon. Rademacher surprises us with a prison love tale that is hilarious but somewhat endearing. Vandy covers a love story of where a young teenage girl falls in love with Charles Manson but she may have had ulterior motives with getting to know him.
Welcome to the Bewitches first-ever crossover episode with the Justins (Roddy & Vandy) from “The Stupidest Podcast.” In today’s ep, Krista takes you through why the hell so many people (sadly mostly women) fall for and actively seek partners in prison. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
They may claim to be God’s witnesses of the end of days, but they also sadly witness some of the worst of humanity. Amy takes us through how Jehovah's Witnesses were grotesquely persecuted in Russia and Krista will call all its pedophiles to the stand and expose leadership for the monsters they are. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes
Ever wonder why Jehovah's Witnesses can’t celebrate holidays like Christmas and Halloween – not even birthdays? Krista will tell you about the history of this cult – er – religion on this week’s episode. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Arizona aliens might be a thing. Today Krista covers the 1997 Phoenix Lights, which to many, still remains a mystery. Amy brings us to the Arizona High Country in Snowflake where the alleged alien abduction of Travis Walton happened nearly forty years ago. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
We are not alone in the universe. According to the Drake Equation, it is predicted that in our lifetime that we will be able to communicate to other intelligent life. However, a large group of people believe that we already have been in contact with aliens and they have been visiting planet earth for quite a while. Amy covers a few stories that echo the same question. Instead of the government covering up Alien and UFO sightings, what if the government are the guilty ones that are fabricating and creating these staged sightings to keep everyday citizens from learning about top secret information and operations that they don’t want us to know about? Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Can nightmares really kill you? Turns out Freddy Kurger was inspired by Hmong men who died in paralyzed fear during waking nightmares. We stayed in the Asian Pacific for the Filipino Folklore of the Batibat (Ilocano) and the Bangungot (Tagalog). Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
What do an old evil hag, a demon, and aliens have in common? Besides all being utterly terrifying, it turns out they’re all associated with sleep paralysis or“parasomnia.” Hear it from Krista, sure there’s a science to explain this sleep disorder, but to anyone that has experienced it, it’s really the stuff of your worst waking nightmare. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Come down to Peru with us. That is if you'd like to be possessed like the South American children and teens Krista covers. All of them tested their fate by playing around with Ouija...or so they thought. Were they actually possessed? Amy covers the trial of the killer nicknamed the "Ice Man." This case was heavily influenced by the headlines from several gossip magazines that leaked that the jury may have consulted in a Spirit Board while intoxicated. Tune in to find how many glasses of wine it takes to get advice from ghosts? Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
There is no question that the Ouija Board has a mysterious and somber backstory. The talking board was a by-product of the Spiritualism movement. This was a time when several families were experiencing the loss of their loved ones from the aftermath of the Civil War and they were desperate to find a way to communicate with them. Due to the pandemic this tale is all too familiar, we all know firsthand that businesses love to monopolize on people’s heartbreaks. Did the spirits curse the creators' families with a lifelong feud and something much worse? Or was it all due to unfortunate events? More surprising to Amy is that this infamous game does have scientific proof that it works but probably not in the way you would expect.
Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Amy’s not the Sleepwalk Killer, but she sure has some funny sleepwalking and sleep-talking stories scaring the bejesus out of her sister and roommates back in the day. Her story, though, is far more of a nightmare in waking life as she covers Albert Tirelle, AKA The Sleepwalker Killer. Not only was this douche a serial scumbag who slept around on his wife, but he was a serial sleepwalker who brutally murdered his second wife while sleepwalking. Listen to Amy’s story to see if his sleepwalking defense held up in court even in the 1800s. Krista makes up for our International Women’s Day episode featuring horrible women, with a Dreams Doctor rightfully dubbed “The Queen of Dreams,” Doctor Rosalind Cartwright. “Dr. Roz,” as her patients and colleagues also lovingly came to call her, now also holds a special place in Krista’s heart as she studied sleeplessness and anxiety dreams among fellow divorced women. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Amy and Krista never read Word Up! Magazine, but it would be one badass dream if the Bewitches rode in limos with Salt-N-Pepa, the real bad B’s here. Snapping out of that cloud, Krista takes us through the science of dreams which have captivated humans for as long as we’ve been on this planet. So, why do we dream at all? Do our dreams actually mean anything and can they predict the future? What about bad nightmares and sleepwalking? Ancient Egyptians and Greeks thought dreams were signs from the Gods, while Freud and Carl Jung believed dreams were unresolved thoughts or fears from our subconscious. Today’s science community has not landed on one consensus for why we dream and what dreams are made of, but modern theories have largely abandoned Freudian Dream Theory for theories more rooted in brain cognition and physiology. Sweet dreams. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Once upon a time, Krista’s Friday nights consisted of binging Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures and A&E’s Psychic Kids shows. While she is still not-so-lowkey into Zach Bagans, the Bewitches Psychic Detectives episode showed Krista that Chip Coffey of Psychic Kids didn’t help gifted children after all. What a letdown. He also happens to look and sound like Mr. Garrison from South Park. Meanwhile Amy, almost turns a believer corner with Troy Griffen, a psychic detective who openly shares he won’t help clients find love or talk to their dead relatives from the get-go. Troy became infamous when he starred on Tiger King 2 to help Don Lewis's family investigate what happened to him and to answer the biggest question if Carol Baskins did it. He only claims to help clients and some law enforcement to find those answers. So, has he actually helped solve missing persons and murder cases? Listen to find out. Also, Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Amy takes us back to some episode content from episode one including the ways psychics may or may not (according to Amy and the overall scientific community), see the future and communicate with the dead. Are psychics con artists or legit fortune tellers? Amy detects utter B.S., while Krista is still a believer she had become more skeptical thanks to Amy’s prodding. Where the Bewitches do agree on this topic, manipulating anyone in a time of grief and pain is downright wrong. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
This is sure to be a wild one. From a British lady who cons lovers (Krista’s has renamed to Wu-Tang-Grown-Ass Honey-Boo Boo) to an a-hole abuelita, the Bewitches share two tales of women who hustled their way right into prison. Krista’s granny ain’t all that grand, but her scams led her to commit one of the grandest atrocities of all. Dorthea Puente (AKA "Death House Landlady,” Teya Singoalla Neyaarda, or Sharon Johansson) had everyone including the authorities fooled until her murderous ways were revealed. Then Amy lightens things up in the love game with Patricia Wutaan, (now formally known as Patricia WuTang Clan Grown A$$ Honey Boo Boo), a British conwoman who got rich by becoming the Queen of online dating romance scams. Watch out singles. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Who knew all the true crime genre rage would morph into an obsessive interest in con artists? With seemingly endless hit streaming series, docuseries, and podcasts like Inventing Anna, The Tinder Swindler, Elizabeth Holmes on Trial, and Chameleon, it seems we’re all mesmerized by these hustlers and tricksters. But are we fascinated so much lately because we’ll avoid being conned at all costs or is it because there seems to be an uptick in women pulling off these scams? Krista takes you through the origin of the word “con artist,” what a con person is, and how to avoid getting hustled yourself. Bewitches everywhere Beware - women are just as good (if not better) at running today’s scams than men. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Was Krista's grandpa, Paco, really a Freemason? Apparently her father has a ring from him that says he was, but guess we'll never know that secret for sure. This nearly 200-year organization has got some nefarious roots and even used to have the ability to make people "disappear." Amy then takes us to Ireland for the founding of the Molly McGuires. This group formed in protection for working-class Irish during the Great Potato Famine. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes--
Video may have killed the radio star but when it comes to secret societies, modern tech and the age of instant information may have killed the global network of loyal members and leaders once part of these secret groups. From the freemasons and fraternities to some more nefarious organizations like the KKK and the Mafia, Amy clarifies one thing that all secret societies have in common – their sheer existence isn't so secret. Instead, members often take oaths to keep their respective group’s rituals and practices hush-hush not the organization itself. They may no longer hold the key to global politics, economics, and culture, but it’s no secret why so many secret societies get so much attention from very curious publics. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Who knew horoscopes had so much weight on world history? Turns out that astrology was the thing that kept Hitler, a Taurus, from dying by suicide. Not a great look for astrology, but as Krista said “it’s not astrology’s fault” that many world leaders are and were megalomaniacs – Amy’s got a list of other evil leaders around the world with ties to horoscopes. Krista shares how Hitler’s horoscope became a thing and how that shaped the future. Were it not for famous astrologer Louis de Wohl, America may have never gotten into WWII or so damn into opening a paper or magazine to read what the stars have in store for us each week. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Well, we know that soul mates don’t exist, but what if it’s written in the stars? Krista may not be looking to the skies to find her other half, but she does still love scouring horoscopes – especially for the dudes she’s dating. We told you Bewitched Banter’s really her dating app. Meanwhile, Amy thinks horoscopes are all just bull even though her hubby’s a Taurus and she lives on Gemini drive. See how astrology from ancient Babylon gave way to the science of modern astronomy. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
During her time as a teacher, Amy’s seen some sh*t but she’s never seen or heard of other teachers, social workers or administrators using hypnosis as therapy for students. Krista takes you back to Florida for another whack “Florida Man'' story where a high school principal practiced hypnosis on nearly 70 students. Tragically, three of those students died within just three weeks of each other. Was this principal to blame? Then Amy takes us across the globe to Indonesia where you don’t want to get caught sleepin’. A national PSA by the Indonesian government warns you not to talk to strangers at the risk of falling prey to criminal hypnotists. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Love Jordan Peele’s “Get Out?” The Bewitches do too. The good news, hypnosis and hypnotherapy doesn’t work exactly like that. Actually, you’ve gotta be a willing participant for the hypnosis to actually work. But if you are willing, Amy takes you through how hypnotism can be used to support the subject’s mental health, addictions, and even some health goals. Now, can you hypnotize us to make us move our butts to the gym? Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
As the single divorcee of the Bewitched Bunch, Krista wanted to cover the old dating app market. She takes you through the history of EHarmony, one of the very first online dating sites of its time to use a detailed survey to match for [same-sex] marriages. Spoiler alert: its founding father Neil Clark Warren, may or may not be a bit homophobic although the company’s “Real Love” campaign featuring same-sex couples really upset all the righteous Karens out there. Amy then shares a medley of whackos madly in love. You won’t believe some of the things people do for their soulmate. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Happy almost Valentine's Day. Seeking your perfect soulmate or other half? Well you’ve come to the wrong place. Sorry singles. Turns out the soulmate narrative is one big ‘old Hollywood myth that actually has its roots way back in ancient Grecian times. Besides the romantic arcs and grandiose plots we’re all too familiar with in nearly every book, play, movie or TV script, Krista will take you all the way back to the soulmate myth origins. Learn why nearly one-third of Americans still believe they’re destined to meet their “other half.” Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Can you imagine being buried alive? Unfortunately it was a real life nightmare for a Haitian man named Clairvius Narcisse. In this week's story time, he is the central thread of the bewitch's stories. Amy shares the terror that he went through after being zombified (heavily sedated) and waking up in a coffin to then becoming an enslaved person on a sugar plant at the helm of a bokor (Haitian witch doctor). Krista then takes us back down to Haiti via psychologists Dr. Nathan S. Kline and Dr. Lamarque Douyon, and ethnobiologist Wade Davis, who embarked on The Zombie Project. The mission: to find the ingredients of various zombie powders that could aid in psychiatric drug development and more natural uses for anesthesia. All the 2-year project was unfortunately dismissed overall by the medical community, see why Krista likes Dr. Kline and Wade Davis for their work as "good guys." Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Remember the beginning of COVID times? If you do, we’re impressed. It feels like a millennia ago when grocery stores, gas stations, highways and airports resembled scenes right out of The Walking Dead or I Am Legend. What if the global pandemic was not a crown-shaped virus, but the zombification of humans instead? Don’t panic, the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) got a plan for that, but the Bewitches advise you not to count on it. Amy schools us that pop culture’s Zombi image as a flesh eating, living dead person roaming the Earth aimlessly, is actually a far cry from the historical Haitian origins. Zombies are actually part of the Vodou religion. Zombification is an ancient ritual practiced by bokors or “witch doctors'' to help the dead reconvene with their ancestors. While it’s possible that the disease that causes zombie deer and cicadas could cross over to humans, it’s highly unlikely. Maybe that’s why the CDC’s plan basically only includes a “Go Bag?” What’s your Zombie Apocalypse plan? ‘Cause ya might need to create your own. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Every week two best friends with totally opposite beliefs on general humanity come together to prove why one friend thinks people are generally good, and why the other friend believes people aren’t so great by nature. Amy and Krista take you through history on Tuesdays and into sometimes funny, but mostly dark stories on Thursdays. From true crime to spooky and spoofy, these two best friends do agree on one thing: humans have got to get back to a place where we can have deep conversations even with [and especially with] those who do not share our exact viewpoints. They have created and produced the Bewitched Banter podcast to do just that. Every week they hope to expand not only their own perspectives, but listeners’ too, by exploring topics that may stem from values that are different than their own.
We go back to darkness in this week’s story time with two notorious American murderers. Both of these “unorganized” killers blamed the supernatural for their crimes and ended up on Death Row as each of their attorneys were unsuccessful in using the insanity defense. Amy covers self-proclaimed Satanist Sean Sellers, who’s certainly not a “good one.” Though he eventually claimed remorse as a God-Fearing Christian, Sellers was more interested in his own fame than any genuine apologies. Krista goes back to the late 1800s with another God-obsessed monster, Albert Fish. Sadly, Fish’s God complex wasn’t the only one he had. Fish was a pedophile and cannibal obsessed with abducting, murdering, and mutilating children (mostly poor, undedicated, boys of color or children with mental disabilities). While he was eventually caught and sent to the electric chair, the number of victims who he brutally attacked, butchered and ate are unknown. [You’re gonna need earmuffs on some of this if you are squeamish]. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Well if you learned anything in this episode, it is that Krista may have a legit problem: she’s true crime obsessed. While the Bewitches initially bonded over murder shows at the very beginning of their friendship, Amy took a long-break from consuming and reading any media or books on this dark and tragic topic. Krista confesses in her coverage of serial killers that she’s never quite stopped pouring over TV show after podcast after documentary crime and murder shows including NETFLIX’s, Mind Hunter. She even falls asleep almost nightly to these types of stories. Amy promises to do an intervention. Meanwhile, Krista goes right back into the darkness covering serial killers including some of America’s most monstrous murderers.
Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
On Tuesday, Amy gave us all the dirty deets on the "Father of Modern Satanism," Anton LaVey. While he was busy founding his unconventional religion, he wasted no time on throwing his three-year-old daughter, Zeena, to the fire with her globally broadcasted Satanic Baptism in 1967. Zeena Schreck may have come from "The Black House" of the "Black Pope," but today, she's one bad B*tch and Krista's kinda obsessed with her. Amy then shares how satanists may just be the ones who save Pro Choice. See how the Satanic Temple’s abortion rituals may stop the pulse of the Texas “heartbeat bill.” Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
What in the devil is Satanism, anyway? Turns out, most sects of this very misunderstood religion actually don’t worship Satan or any form of the devil at all. Amy sets the record straight that Satanism is actually a religion very focused on turning within and doing what’s best for oneself. Both the Bewitches kinda wanna join. Amy then schools us on all things Satanism from traditional LaVey-anism and modern day Satanism (the Temple of Set) to the religion’s nine tenants, that actually really connect with self-care and community. Read full episode notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
While McDonald’s isn’t self care, maybe Jersey Mikes is? Welp, it was for the Bewitches this week. Oops. We’ll get there. Amy goes back to Victorian times and shares how consumption’s (Tuberculosis -TB) symptoms of pale skin, rosy cheeks, and waif-like figures became some of the top female beauty standards of the time. She also STILL doesn’t watch SNL, so Amy doesn’t get Krista’s reference to Weekend Update’s spoof on Goop with a cameo from GP (Gwyneth Paltrow) herself. Meanwhile, as Krista rants about this “self-care” company’s pseudo science practices, Amy not-so-secretly wants to work for Goop. Hit ‘er up GP! See full ep notes and resources here: https://www.bewitchedbanter.com/episodes
Happy 2022, all! We hope you had a great New Year celebration. Krista takes us through the history of self-care, from its humble beginnings and some other radical roots to its resurgence after the 2016 elections and presently in the time of Covid-19. Amy hopes to grow in her career this year, while Krista is focused on intense self-care, which absolutely does not include McDonald's, despite having one last indulgence on Sunday. We are hoping your year is filled with you and health.
Well it’s not The Thunder From Down Under as much as the Bewitches wish, but Amy and Krista are bringing you two Aussie reincarnation tales. Krista’s story is a bit more light-hearted as a little boy named Billy from Sydney (now five years old) believes he is Princess Diana herself. He’s got some pretty eerie details of the Scottish Balmoral Castle with unicorns as one piece of proof as well as the very haunting memory of being a princess until the sirens came, an allusion to The Princess of Whales’ tragic and sudden death. Then, it’s not all in the family when Amy covers the sinister cult leader Anne Hamilton Byrne, who preached to her followers, mostly orphaned, missing or stolen children, that she is Jesus Christ reincarnated. She called her cult, The Family and tormented and abused dozens of children in a very modest and remote house on Lake Elidon, just outside Melbourne.
Do You Believe In Life After Love? Krista really wants to after hearing Amy tell us all about different forms of reincarnation in Buddhism, Hinduism, and some indigenous beliefs around the world. We can't reincarnate your souls, but we can take you through this witching hour history. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Since we’re just four days out from Christmas, we thought you’d love to hear “The Night Before A Bewitched Christmas. Really this is Amy and Krista’s version of the classic “Night Before Christmas.” Even more real, it’s our way to give ourselves a mini break this week to spend some quality time with our families. Don’t worry, we’ll be back in 2022 with fresh content and a reincarnated passion for podcasting. See more about us and the podcast here at: bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Poem written by: Amy Holt
Thought our cults episode was nuts? Today we take you an a really wild journey that includes sex magic, rockets, orgies, and a demonic murder! Amy connects the dots between the “Father of Modern Rocketry,” Jack Parsons, and Scientology’s L. Ron Hubbard. Then, Krista takes us back home to Connecticut [yes, again] to the other town she grew up next to, called Brookfield. In 1981 this town saw its very first murder in its nearly 200-year history and was home to the very first court case in the U.S. to use the murder plea “not guilty by reason of demonic possession.” This was the real-life case that inspired “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,” released in June 2021and is now on HBO Max. SPOILER ALERT: This time, Ed and Lorraine Warren, can’t stop the devil from committing murder. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
To quote Mr. West “The Devil is alive / I feel him breathin’” from his hit “Heard 'Em Say,” featuring Adam Levine, the Bewitches cover the history of the Satan himself. While Amy and Krista don’t agree on everything, they both believe that evil does indeed exist in the world at least in some form, but that it doesn’t necessarily take the shape of The Prince of Darkness, Satan or any mythological creature. Krista gets personal like never before as she shares her experience with people she grew up with who are Sandy Hook victims and survivors. It was not our intention to air this episode on the tragic anniversary of this massacre, however, Amy and Krista would like to honor all those impacted on that awful and dark day where the Devil indeed may have been present. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Welp, we tried staying away from dark topics this week, but Amy’s story reveals just how and why Haitian Vodou got a bad rep and sadly, there's nothing uplifting about it. Trigger Warning: racism, murder, and rape in the Affaire de Bizotone or the Case of 1864, were a jump off point for the many misconceptions that voodoo (and many of its Afro-Carribean counterpart religions) are “black magic.” There is some light at the end of this ep though, with badass women, like the feared and revered Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, Marie Laveau. The Bewitches then bless the podcast with a prayer and offering to this Queen. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
On our very first crack at a Bewitched History Hour episode Krista brings y’all down to New Orleans. She’s definitely let the good times roll a few times over in the best city in the Bayou [100% Krista’s favorite city in the U.S.], but she also brings listeners up to speed on the real deal with New Orleans Voodoo and a touch of Haitian Vodou.
A few misconceptions that really get Krista’s anger meter WAY up is that these Afro- Caribbean religions are one-in-the-same and that they have a reputation as being “bad,” “dark,” or “evil.” In this ep, you’ll learn that voodoo and similar religions like Santería are actually distinct religions and ways for practitioners to honor their ancestors and their roots and NO the voodoo doll did NOT come from Africa as you’ve likely been led to believe. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Amy and Krista host their very first guest and expert, Krista’s big sis, Erica who is an OBGYN. Tune in to hear some of the wild alternative practices some women choose for their bits and bobs. Listen to Dr. E’s story about a time when she had to remove some holiday cheer from a woman’s downstairs. Happy Holidays!
DISCLAIMER: While she is a Board certified physician, all of Dr. E’s comments are her personal opinion and do not represent the university where she practices or teaches medicine. For any medical concerns specific to you, please consult your physician.
The Bewitches are OG Millennials so you know they love alternative music, but they’re still on the fence about alternative medicine, more commonly now referred to as integrative medicine by physicians. In this episode, Amy covers João Teixeira de Faria AKA John of God, a Brazilian faith healer who gained worldwide fame after he claimed to cure people of nearly any ailment or past trauma. He’s now in prison for rape. Krista’s story is also about a “religious” man who paid off his secretary to keep quiet about their affair. A real “Godly” character, Jim Bakker, once a revered televangelist in the 70s is now also facing another set of legal troubles after selling colloidal silver as a treatment for COVID-19 and proclaiming its false medical benefits to his viewers. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
While Krista was out sick, we sucked in Amy’s hubby and resident historian, Cory to guest host. Today Bewitched Banter covers vampires. One perk of these blood suckers is they live forever, but is it a gift or a curse? As Amy would say, “on a nutshell,” you decide on this episode that highlights some seriously notorious “Nosferatus.”
We might lose Krista as the very first user on “VampiresBeThirsty.com. But on a far more serious and sad note [because we can’t not go there], so many people have lost family and friends to the QAnon cult who believe that liberals and Hollywood elites suck the blood of children as part of a global sex ring. This radical, pervasive belief stems from an ancient antisemitic doctrine known as Blood Libel. See all ep notes at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Fact, fantasy or straight up fakes? This week the Bewitches try to steer away from dark stories as they share the tales of magicians who changed the world for better. From Harry Houdini and The Amazing Randi, Amy introduces us to a few of the magical myth-busters who set out to expose the phonies, including Peter Popoff and Uri Geller.
Krista then conjures the renowned Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, AKA “The Father of Modern Magic.” Learn how his “Strong Man” routine stopped a potential Algerian revolt against the French. Then, hear how thousands of talented American artists used elaborate illusions to fake out the Nazis during WWII. See full ep notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
The Bewitches cover the dark world of cults. Amy takes us through some background on what cults are and why they are so scary. Meanwhile, Krista is on an independent woman rant this episode as she covers the controversial YouTube influencer, Teal Swan. Finally, Amy brings us to Japan for the cult of Aum in Tokyo.
TRIGGER Warning on mental health and suicide for all listeners. If you or anyone you know is experiencing with suicidal thoughts or expressed a desire to die by suicide, please call at 800-273-8255 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.
See full ep notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
In our third OG episode of Bewitched Banter, Amy and Krista share two of the most famous women in Tarot.
Any idea where Tarot reading comes from or that it wasn’t always used to tell fortunes? In fact, Tarot cards were some of the earliest forms of entertainment. Krista tells you more about its origins and connects Tarot cards with Lotería, or Mexican BINGO. Amy transports us older Millennials back to our youth by sharing all about the misunderstood Miss Cleo. Krista wraps up the episode with the Godmother of Modern Tarot, Mary K. Greer. Then head to Tarot History Part Two, to hear Krista read Amy's cards in a three-card spread.
See full ep notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Amy's Tarot reading by Krista [ya know, the one where Krista doesn't fall asleep in the midst of it]. See what the cards had in story for Amy this summer at the time of the reading.
Our OG inaugural episode of Bewitched Banter where Amy and Krista cover two psychics that don’t always use their powers for good.
Krista educates us on the difference between psychic and medium. Yes, there’s a difference! Do you know what it is? Amy then reveals the malicious nature in which self-proclaimed psychic, Sylvia Brown, gave false hope to not just one, but many families. The Bewitches declare Brown as the lowest bar to hit as far as “shitty people.” Then, Krista covers Phoenix-based celeb psychic or self proclaimed “medium profiler,” Allison Dubois. While Krista never met Dubois, she was upset to learn that Dubois’ purported abilities to solve crimes in both Texas and Arizona may have been straight up spoofs after all.
See full ep notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
Today the Bewitches cover yoga with a spiritual twist. Krista sets the record straight on the Yogi Maharishi Mahesh, the founder of the Transcendental Meditation Movement Movement (TMM). Once a confidant to the Beatles the yogi was criticized for only befriending The Beatles for fame. However, the band’s time in India and practice of TMM may have given creative birth to their acclaimed White Album.
Amy brings the heat covering Bikram Choudhury, a womanizer and massagynist who is still a fugitive after a major fraud case. Today, more than half of Choudhury's studios either closed or dropped "Bikram" from their name.
For our last part of our Halloween Special Bewitched Banter hosts, Amy and Krista, cover Haunted Places.
Did you know humans didn’t always bury the dead? Krista takes us through the history of cemeteries, while Amy shares her “scientific” view on why she and others don’t believe in ghosts. Then Amy gives us a “tour” of the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, Calif., one of the most haunted places in America. Krista wraps with another hometown story, the Dudley Curse which is said to haunt anyone from the lineage of Edmund Dudley. Now an overgrown ruin in the thick forest of Cornwall, Conn., Dudleytown is on private land. Do you dare to visit the Dark Entry Forest? See for yourself on this episode of Bewitched Banter.
Find us on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify and anywhere you listen to podcasts. See full ep notes and sources at bewitchedbanter.com/episodes.
For our third show in a three-part Halloween Special Bewitched Banter hosts, Amy and Krista, cover African witchcraft.
Our second show in a three-part Halloween Special where Bewitched Banter hosts, Amy and Krista, cover the dark history of the Salem Witch Trials.
Our inaugural episode of Bewitched Banter where Amy and Krista cover the wild history of Westernized Witches.