We are back in France! We continue the story of Joseph Vacher, the 19th-century French criminal who will now come to justice, and the insane trial and overall that lead to him being caught. Also proof that maybe you should absolutely get a lawyer and not attempt to defends yourself based on vibes alone.

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Joseph Vacher, Bread-related Accident, French Family, Mental Health Care, Forensic Science, Poverty Politics, Master of Disguise, Asylums, Alienists, Mental Health Care System, Belle Époque, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism

We go all the way to Chicago! Sorta. Okay fine Indiana. Unearth the spine-chilling saga of Belle Gunness, a woman whose life story reads like a morbidly fascinating crime novel. From the mysterious fires and unsettling deaths, and strange narratives including lard and very heavy cookware. We traverse Belle's life and her sinister legacy. With suitors dropping like flies and an arson trial that only raises more questions than answers, we explore the unresolved mysteries surrounding Belle's presumed demise

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Dark Comedy, True Crime, Love and Death, Belle Gunness, Black Widow, La Porte, Murder Mystery, Suspicious Deaths, Insurance Fraud, Love Triangle, Arson Trial, Unsolved Mysteries, Norway, Humor, Podcasting, ADHD, Identity,

Join us as we unravel the bizarre life of Joseph Vacher, the 19th-century French criminal whose grim deeds and tragic beginnings make for a haunting yet strangely humorous tale.The chilling recount of Joseph Vacher’s violent crimes paints a terrifying portrait of fear and tragedy in rural France. We track his ruthless path from young shepherds to unsuspecting travelers, reflecting on the societal anxieties that his heinous acts amplified during the Belle Époque with sick hats, strange smells. You know, because of the gun.

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Joseph Vacher, Bread-related Accident, French Family, Mental Health Care, Forensic Science, Poverty Politics, Master of Disguise, Asylums, Alienists, Mental Health Care System, Belle Époque, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism

Picture this: we're in the midst of a brainstorming for season six, and in an effort to impress a girl, we choose true crime. Can you imagine? Anyway this season is true crime.This episode is not just about thematic choice, kick off the season with us as we navigate the twists and turns of forensic history, starting in 1882 France, where the world of fingerprints take a giant step, there's a crime spree, and a french guy that will not let stuff go. Oh my! We back baby!

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True Crime, Season Six, Pitches, Brainstorming, Paris, 1882, Metric Measurements, Mustachioed Masterminds, Forensic Science, Alphonse Bertillon, Facial Geometry, Criminal Identification, Fingerprinting, Stratton Brothers, Courtroom Drama, Expert Testimonies, Justice, French Thrusts, Comical Chaos, Workplace Dynamics, Cultural Sensitivity, Workplace Dynamics, Quirky Personalities, Historical Context, Advent, Dark Humor, Intriguing Narratives, Nepo Baby, Desk Job, Revolutionary, Criminal Identification, Physical Characteristics, Skepticism, Success, Prominence, French Police Force, Relatable, Scientific Achievements, Ravishol, Crimes, Execution, Fame, Ancient Babylonian, Chinese Practices, Johann Mayer, Sir William Herschel, Dr. Henry Folds, Uniqueness, Bengal, Japan, Modern Forensic Science, Humorous Commentary, Lightening, Grim Topic, Historic Case, Stratton Brothers, Alfred, Albert, Execution, Masks, Trial, Standard Practice, Europe, Expert Testimonies, Reliability, FBI, Technological Advancements, AI, Future Crime Scenes, Death, French Thrust, Mishaps, Misunderstandings, Life, Bur

Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of history, art, and mystery woven into Chicago's iconic Graceland Cemetery. This episode features the fascinating insights of cemetery tour guide and historian Coimetromania, our special guest, Grace Robbins. Together, we unravel the stories behind Graceland's founding by Thomas Barbour Bryan, who sought a serene resting place after the dismal conditions found in Chicago's City Cemetery. Discover how this historic site has become a distinguished landmark, not just for its picturesque landscapes but also for its role in revolutionizing cemetery design in the U.S. amidst an atmosphere full of intrigue.

Journey with us through Graceland Cemetery's unique traditions and ecological endeavors, where prairie installations and buzzing beehives echo a commitment to biodiversity. We delve into the cemetery's multi-use spaces that connect people with nature, reflecting on the architectural evolution of its chapel and the significance of its historic oil-burning crematory. Hear the touching story of Douglas and Jerry, which underscores the emotional weight and foresight of pre-planning shared resting spaces. As the Chicago train rumbles by, it becomes a charming reminder of life continuing amidst the quietude of the graveyard.

And what's a graveyard tour without a chilling ghost story? We uncover the eerie legend of Inez Clark, a young girl whose death in the 1880s has inspired tales of the supernatural. From myths about her statue vanishing during thunderstorms to the touching tokens left by visitors, Inez’s story captivates those who wander through Graceland. Finally, we celebrate cemeteries as vital community spaces, encouraging listeners to engage with their local cemetery culture. Whether picnicking, playing bagpipes, or simply exploring, these sites offer a vibrant blend of history and life. Discover the upcoming events and resources to immerse yourself in this fascinating world.

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Welcome back, Skeleton Army! I

My money is on the one that rhymes with herpes.

!n this episode, we travel back to the eerie streets of Salem, Massachusetts in 1830 to recount the chilling murder of Captain Joseph White, a notorious shipmaster and slave trader. With a mix of dark humor and historical insight, we paint a vivid picture of a town grappling with its infamous past, including the witch trials, while uncovering the brutal details of Captain White's murder. His head bashed in and his body repeatedly stabbed, the grim scene sets the stage for a tale of greed, betrayal, and murder.

Listen in as we unravel the complex web of inheritance laws in Massachusetts, shedding light on the implications for Captain White's estate and his relationships, particularly with his niece Mary and her husband, Joseph Knapp Jr. We explore the chaotic aftermath of the murder, highlighting the town's lack of a proper police force and the formation of the amateur Committee of Vigilance. The connections between Salem's prominent families—the Whites, Knapps, and Crowning Shields—are scrutinized, revealing how financial ruin and personal vendettas played pivotal roles in this scandal.

As we journey through the trials and conspiracies surrounding Captain White's murder, you'll hear about the dramatic courtroom performances, media influence, and the eventual execution of Frank and J. Jr. Knapp. We touch upon literary references to the case in works by Nathaniel Hawthorne and Edgar Allan Poe, illustrating how this notorious event was woven into the cultural fabric of the time. Wrapping up with some delirious banter and fun facts, this episode promises a blend of historical intrigue and humor that will keep you entertained and informed.

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Salem, Massachusetts, Murder, Captain Joseph White, Witch Trials, Historical, Inheritance Laws, Estate, Greed, Betrayal, Scandal, Courtroom Drama, Conspiracy, Vigilance, Frank Knapp, J. Jr. Knapp, Execution, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Edgar Allan Poe, Literary References, Dark Humor, Chaos, Fun Facts, Banter, Rollercoaster, History, Horror, Macabre, Haunted, 19th Century, Salem's Past, New Horrors, Economic Struggles, Autopsy, Murder Suspects, Committee of Vigilance, Prominent Families, Disinheritance, Financial Ruin, Personal Vendettas, Crowning Shield Brothers, Greed, Betrayal, Murder, Chaos, Conspiracy, Botched Investigation, Social Dynamics, Public Sentiment, Media Influence, Cultural Fabric, Humorous, Absurdist, Playful Banter, Whimsical

Ever wondered what it takes to bring an overgrown and forgotten cemetery back to life? Rachel Meyer and Josh Gerloff from Epoch Preservation (@epochpreservation) join us to share their incredible journey of transforming neglected burial grounds into beautifully maintained historical sites. Starting with Rachel's groundbreaking research, they moved on to tackling an overgrown cemetery in Gloucester using everything from scythes to goats. Along the way, they discovered the rich history behind their business name "Epoch," which, despite its pronunciation challenges, holds deep historical significance.

We also dive into the meticulous art of gravestone conservation, discussing the challenges of maintaining these historic sites in the face of climate change and other environmental factors. Rachel and Josh talk about their favorite gravestone iconography and the intriguing details left by unidentified carvers. They also highlight alternative pathways into the field, emphasizing the value of hands-on experience and community connections over expensive formal education. Their personal anecdotes add a touch of humor and humanity to this specialized field.

What would you want your gravestone to look like? We get creative and a bit whimsical in a segment dedicated to envisioning our own unique gravestone designs—from holographic markers to animatronic weeping angels. The conversation then shifts to the eerie allure of death masks and safety coffins, wrapping up with the poignant story behind the face of CPR dummies. Rachel and Josh's passion for their work shines through, offering a fascinating blend of historical insights, personal stories, and a dash of humor. Don't miss out on this engaging episode that brings the past into the present with a light-hearted touch!

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Epoch Preservation, Gravestone Conservation, Cemetery Restoration, Historic Burial Grounds, Climate Change, Death Masks, Safety Coffins, Cemetery Preservation, Networking, Volunteering, Apprenticeships, Hands-on Experience, Community Connections, Creative Grave Designs, Burial Preferences, Death and Remembrance, Historical Insights, Personal Anecdotes, Burying Hill, Newburyport, Graveyard Preservation, Accessibility, Community Engagement

Dr. Mary M. Alcaro, a visiting assistant professor of literature at Bryn Mawr College, takes us on a captivating journey through the intersections of plague, trauma, and Middle English texts. This episode kicks off our new interview series with Dr. Alcaro, who shares her path from undergraduate curiosity to a dissertation on the social and psychological effects of the Black Death. Through her fascinating insights, we uncover the profound influence of the plague on language and its lasting impact on literary theory and the history of medicine. Filled with humor and introspection, this conversation shines a new light on medieval literature and its contemporary relevance.

Our discussion takes a closer look at Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Book of the Duchess," highlighting how Chaucer subtly addresses the plague's impact without explicitly mentioning it. Dr. Alcaro explains the use of terms like "wound" to reflect the collective suffering of the audience, drawing intriguing parallels to modern-day euphemisms and the language of trauma. We also explore the concept of a "history of omission," where what is left unsaid can be as revealing as what is recorded, and how language evolves in response to shared traumatic experiences. This episode offers a thought-provoking examination of how literary works navigate the complexities of human grief and communal memory.

Rounding out the episode, we delve into the unexpected connections between medieval melancholia and modern-day humor, uncovering tales that resonate with contemporary comedic sensibilities. Dr. Alcaro reflects on the historical context of forced positivity during pandemics, drawing parallels to our recent experiences with COVID-19. We contemplate the long-term impacts of the pandemic on literature and society, pondering how themes of disease, isolation, and sensory perception might shape future works. Join us for an engaging and often humorous exploration of trauma, literature, and the enduring human experience across the ages.

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Trauma, Literature, Middle English, Plague, Black Death, Language, Literary Theory, History of Medicine, Geoffrey Chaucer, The Book of the Duchess, Wound, Omission, Euphemisms, Traumatic Events, Melancholia, Plague Prophylaxis, Humor, Contemporary Relevance, Grief, Memory, Pandemic, COVID-19, Isolation, Sensory Perception, Post-Pandemic Society, Social Norms, Developmental Concerns, Autism, Quarantine, Social Class, Misinformation, Social Alienation, Disease, Endemic, Identity, Irony, Dr. Mary M. Alcaro

DISCLAIMER:

Hi everybody, this is Angel. A quick reminder, Death and Friends is not a podcast for the light of heart. Dark and serious subjects may come up. Listener discretion is advised.

This episode, we talk about a different kind of death. If you read the title and thought, "oh i like The Ramones," clearly this will be light hearted. It is not. Not even a little bit. Attempts at jokes will be made, but quite frankly considering how much mental health treatment still has to go. This one is a downright bummer. 

We are a comedy podcast and if you've stuck around from the start, you know that we are committed to providing space to learning about death in a context that doesn’t feel as scary as the world does sometimes. Today’s episode, like all the past and future ones, is no different, and we will continue to use our collective space to examine these explorations even in the face of the worst humanity has to offer.

As a reminder, death can be tricky to talk about. So remember: you are loved, you matter, and we will always be happy to be your friend.

Description:

What if a Nobel Peace Prize was awarded for a procedure that ended up causing more harm than good? Join us as we uncover the dark and often bizarre history of early brain surgery, particularly the infamous lobotomy. We dig into the strange and unsettling world of António Egas Moniz, the so-called father of psychosurgery, whose methods have left a controversial legacy. You'll also hear about the misguided experiments conducted by Yale neuroscientist John Fulton on chimpanzees, which influenced human mental health treatments in unexpected ways. Don't worry, we'll navigate this grim terrain with our signature humor to keep things approachable.

In another fascinating chapter, we explore how a seemingly promising medical procedure backfired, worsening the patient's condition, yet bizarrely led to its originator receiving a Nobel Peace Prize. We also delve into the quirks and peculiarities of this famous figure's life, sharing amusing anecdotes and creative metaphors that shed light on his personality. To wrap up, we reflect on the procedure's impact and the intriguing character behind it, ensuring a mix of thought-provoking insights and light-hearted moments. Don't miss this engaging and thought-provoking episode!

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Topics:

Join us as we unravel the extraordinary life of Jessica Mitford, starting from her birth in 1917 Oxfordshire, England, amidst a family infamous for their fascist leanings and Nazi sympathies. Listen in as we recount the unsettling history of the Mitford family, including her father's fascist tendencies, her sister Diana's marriage to British Union of Fascists leader Oswald Mosley, and the disturbing ambition of another sister, Unity, who sought to marry Hitler. Through a mix of humor and horror, we navigate Jessica's defiance against her family's ideologies, painting a vivid picture of her early years.

In this episode, we also explore Jessica Mitford's adventurous and rebellious spirit, which led her to flee to Spain with Winston Churchill's nephew, Esmond Romilly, to fight fascism. Their marriage, move to the U.S., and the birth of their daughter Constancia, nicknamed Dinky, set the stage for a life filled with resilience and activism. We delve into her significant contributions to civil rights, her staunch stance before the House Committee of Un-American Activities, and her eventual disillusionment with the Communist Party, all of which highlight her relentless pursuit of justice.

Finally, we turn our attention to Jessica's groundbreaking exposé on the funeral industry with her book "The American Way of Death." We discuss her and her husband Robert's uncovering of manipulative practices within the industry, the resulting public outrage, and the impact of federal regulations in 1975. The episode wraps up with practical advice on funeral planning and reflections on the ongoing issues in the funeral business, emphasizing Jessica Mitford's legacy as a fearless critic of capitalist exploitation. Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of Jessica Mitford's life and work.

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Have you seen our NEWER and GAYER website? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.deathandfriends.gay/⁠

Happy Pride Month!

Topics:

Jessica Mitford, Fascist Family, Nazi Sympathizers, Civil Rights Activism, Funeral Industry, Funeral Planning, Capitalist Greed, Federal Regulations, Cremations, Green Alternatives, American Way of Death, Winston Churchill, Esmond Romilly, House Committee of Un-American Activities, Cold War, National Funeral Directors Association, Catholic Views, Monopolies, MI5, Ethan Hunt, Sleep Paralysis Demon