We’re kicking off our brand-new Poisoning Series with one of humanity’s oldest toxic troublemakers: lead! From ancient Roman plumbing to 20th-century paint and gas, Elle and Micaela trace the wild history of lead poisoning and how it shaped the world around us. Along the way, we dive into The Young Poisoner’s Handbook and the work of forensic science pioneer Alexander Gettler, who helped crack some of the first big poison cases. It’s part history, part true crime science, and all the weird, fascinating stuff you love. Join us as we start this series with a bang (but hopefully not a headache).

Featuring Original Song Factotum by Micaela Superstar

Aroma Tea Shop in San Francisco

The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum

Murderland: Crime and Bloodlust in the Time of Serial Killers by Caroline Fraser

Musicophelia by Oliver Sacks

What is lead?

From University of Chicago:Lead Poisoning and Rome

The Rise and Fall of Lead in the Workplace

Loony Gas and Lead Poisoning story

Lead Poisoning according to the Mayo Clinic

Do Stanley cups contain lead? What to know about the lawsuit and potential exposure risk