Murder of Crones – Details, episodes & analysis

In this engaging episode our hosts explore the societal perceptions of women's facial expressions, especially Resting Bitch Face (RBF), and how these perceptions impact women's experiences in healthcare, professional settings, and social interactions. It delves into cultural differences, gender stereotypes, racial biases, and the importance of self-advocacy.

Show Notes

Takeaways:

- The science behind facial expressions and social cues

- Cultural differences in interpreting resting face

- Gender bias and societal expectations around women and men

- The impact of resting face on women's professional and personal lives

- Unconscious biases and their influence on perception Societal perceptions of women's facial expressions

- Impact of RBF on women's healthcare experiences

- Cultural differences in expressing emotions

- Racial and gender biases in social and medical contexts

- Strategies for self-advocacy and authenticity

Chapters:

00:01 Introduction to Murder of Crones Podcast

00:49 Exploring RBF

05:28 Personal Experiences with RBF

11:00 Cultural Perspectives on Facial Expressions

14:04 The Burden of Smiling

16:18 RBF: A Double Standard

18:47 Cultural Expectations and Gender Norms

20:39 Unconscious Bias and Social Perception

29:16 The Impact of RBF on Professional Life

35:59 Navigating Health and Communication Challenges

36:49 The Impact of RBF on Women's Health

39:45 Systematic Dismissal of Women's Pain

44:13 Advocating for Women's Health in Medical Settings

47:03 Intersectionality in Healthcare Disparities

53:01 Understanding Neurodiversity and Gender Bias

54:25 Understanding Neurodivergence in Women

55:54 Cultural Perspectives on Facial Expressions

01:00:46 The Impact of RBF Across Cultures

01:05:27 Breaking Gender Norms and Embracing Authenticity

01:08:28 The Social Media Landscape and Its Effects

01:11:16 Concluding Thoughts on Performance and Identity

References:

B, Nikki. “The "Bitch” Penalty: Why Assertive Women Pay the Price in Industry.” Linked In, 5 March 2026, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bitch-penalty-why-assertive-women-pay-price-industry-nikki-bens-vzvqc/.

Carpenter, Kalyn. “Getting real about women's health - Fatal delays and the misdiagnosis epidemic.” Curious Health, 7 March 2024, https://curioushealth.io/getting-real-about-womens-health-fatal-delays-and-the-misdiagnosis-epidemic/. Accessed 5 April 2026.

Christopher, Watkins D., et al. “Social Transmission of Leadership Preference: Knowledge of Group Membership and Partisan Media Reporting Moderates Perceptions of Leadership Ability From Facial Cues to Competence and Dominance.” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 10, no. 2996, 2020. National Library of Medicine, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6971406/.

Cooke, Martin, and Tasha Shields. “Anti-Indigenous racism in Canadian healthcare: a scoping review of the literature.” International Journal for Quality in Health Care, vol. 36, no. 3, 2024. Oxford Academic, https://academic.oup.com/intqhc/article/36/3/mzae089/7749614?login=false.

Grossman, Samantha. “The Insidious Sexism of 'Resting Bitch Face.'” This Week, 10 January 2019, https://theweek.com/articles/815496/insidious-sexism-resting-bitch-face.

Harris Dr., Felecia C. “The Resting "Bitch" Face: Exploring The Intersection of African American Women, Race, Class, Sexuality. Gender and Reality TV.” University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2016. Digital Commons, https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/sewsa/2016/fullschedule/5/.

Khazan, Olga. “Why Some Cultures Frown on Smiling.” The Atlantic, 27 May 2016, https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2016/05/culture-and-smiling/483827/.

Mehrotra, Palasha Krishna. “The Unsmiling Indian.” Man's World, https://www.mansworldindia.com/lifestyle/the-unsmiling-indian.

R, Rathi. “Resting Bitch Face: Why Are Only Women Accused Of Having It?” Feminism in India, 1 August 2017, https://feminisminindia.com/2017/08/01/resting-bitch-face-women/.

Salamon, Maureen. “The dangerous dismissal of women's pain.” Harvard Women's Health Watch, 2025. Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/the-dangerous-dismissal-of-womens-pain.

“The Science Behind an Expressive Face and Its Signals.” Science Insights, 25 November 2025, https://scienceinsights.org/the-science-behind-an-expressive-face-and-its-signals/.

Strinic, Andrea, et al. “Multiple-group membership: warmth and competence perceptions in the workplace.” Journal of Business and Psychology, vol. 36, 2020, pp. 903-920. Springer Nature Link, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10869-020-09713-4.

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

What happens when traditional gender roles meet modern feminism? In this episode of Murder of Crones, Kori, Jen, and Zab unpack the rise of the Tradwife movement—looking beyond the aesthetic to question power, choice, and control. Is it genuine empowerment, or a return to limiting roles shaped by religion and politics? Are Tradwives anti-feminist… or feminism in action? Listen in and decide.

Show Notes

Takeaways:

• The traditional wife model: roles, aesthetics, and cultural significance
• Power dynamics and submission within Tradwife relationships
• The ideological underpinnings: religion, politics, and white nationalism
• Social media's role in glamorizing and monetizing Tradwife culture
• Feminism’s perspective: choice, autonomy, and societal implications
• The intersection of Tradwives with conservative policies and social agendas
• The economic realities and risks for women adopting this lifestyle
• Critique of hustle culture and capitalism within the Tradwife aesthetic
• Future challenges: legislation, social acceptance, and diversity of choice

00:00 - Introduction: the rise and cultural aesthetic of Tradwives

02:00 - Social media's influence on Tradwife culture

03:13 - Initial reactions: admiration, confusion, alarm

03:38 - Tradwives as a step backward for feminism

04:01 - Wealth and visibility in Tradwife portrayals

05:03 - Traditional model: roles, submission, and gender dynamics

06:49 - Visual aesthetics and curated femininity

07:46 - Morphed and adapted social media presence

08:38 - Gender differences and role delineation

09:04 - Trust and decision-making in Tradwife relationships

10:11 - The importance of partnership vs hierarchy

11:00 - Vulnerabilities: losing skills, economic insecurity

12:06 - Historical context: 1950s family ideals

13:16 - Religious and conservative political influences

14:37 - Social media promotion and the glamorization of domestic skills

16:12 - Economic autonomy and potential risks for women

17:18 - The appeal amid burnout and social chaos

18:29 - Declining marriage rates and social trends

19:25 - The racial and nationalist undertones of procreation drives

21:17 - Impact on children and religious influences on gender roles

22:39 - Religious and conservative currents in the Tradwife movement

25:41 - The intersection with politics, legislation, and social policy

28:49 - Submission, obedience, and power structures in relationships

36:32 - The branding and monetization of Tradwife influencers

44:51 - Social media as a marketing platform and industry for Tradwives

55:21 - The dangerous undercurrents: white nationalism, religious fundamentalism

60:27 - Feminism and choice: navigating autonomy vs societal pressures

62:41 - The importance of political engagement and education

64:29 - The role of legislation and the need for social vigilance

66:01 - The importance of critical thinking and empathy in education

66:39 - Closing thoughts and acknowledgments

This episode provides a nuanced perspective on a controversial social phenomenon—balancing respect for individual choice with a critique of underlying societal and political currents. Whether you see the Tradwife lifestyle as empowerment or regression, understanding its complexities is essential.

Reference:                                                                                                                           Bilezikian, G. (1985). Beyond sex roles: What the Bible says about a woman’s place in church and family. Baker Academic.

Butler, J. (1990). Gender trouble: Feminism and the subversion of identity. Routledge.

Hochschild, A. R., & Machung, A. (2012). The second shift: Working families and the revolution at home (Revised ed.). Penguin Books. (Original work published 1989)

Nock, S. L. (1998). Marriage in men’s lives. Oxford University Press.

Pateman, C. (1988). The sexual contract. Stanford University Press.

Perel, E. (2006). Mating in captivity: Unlocking erotic intelligence. HarperCollins.

Rubin, G. (1975). The traffic in women: Notes on the “political economy” of sex. In R. Reiter (Ed.), Toward an anthropology of women (pp. 157–210). Monthly Review Press.

Schwartz, P. (1994). Peer marriage: How love between equals really works. Free Press.

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Special Thanks to www.dinnissindesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.

Join us as we unpack the intersection of women’s fashion, societal expectations, and the impact of historical events and political influence on women’s clothing. Learn why we wear the clothes we do, how morals and politics affected what women were allowed to wear throughout history, and in what ways we are still controlled by these cultural biases. Listen along as we discuss women’s health, the rational dress movement, military uniforms, and pockets!

Show Notes

Takeaways:

• Fashion has often been a reflection of societal norms and expectations.
• The Rational Dress Movement aimed for practical and comfortable clothing for women.
• Pockets in women's clothing have historically been associated with rebellion and independence.
• Women's fashion has evolved significantly during times of war, reflecting their changing roles in society.
• The suffragette movement embraced pockets as symbols of empowerment and agency.
• Historical fashion trends often prioritized aesthetics over practicality for women.
• The chaos of ADHD and menopause can influence personal experiences and perspectives on life.
• Women's clothing has been a political statement throughout history, often tied to social movements.
• The evolution of women's clothing continues to be influenced by cultural and societal changes.
• Understanding the history of women's fashion can provide insight into contemporary issues of gender and identity.

Chapters:

00:00 The Chaos of Everyday Life

00:36 The Politics of Women’s Fashion 

05:57 Historical Context of Women’s Clothing 

09:22 The Corset Controversy: Beauty vs Health

13:27 Women in War: Fashion and Morale During the Civil War

17:29 The Rational Dress Movement: A Call for Practicality

22:25 World Wars and Women’s Roles: Shifts in Fashion and Duty

27:53 The Roaring Twenties: Liberation and the Flapper Era

30:25 Post-War Gender Roles and Domesticity

33:12 Fashion Evolution: From Corsets to Pants

36:00 The Significance of Pockets in Women’s Fashion

41:24 The Historical Context of Women’s Clothing and Pocket

44:00 The Symbolism of Pockets and Gender Policing

49:03 The Politics of Pockets 

51:44 Uniforms and Gendered Design 

54:50 The Struggle for COmfort and Functionality

56:17 Historical Perspectives on Women’s Clothing

59:06 Marginalized Voices in Fashion History

01:01:34 The Future of Women’s Fashion

References:

Engel, K. L. The Rational Dress Reform Movement. Amazing Women in History. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://amazingwomeninhistory.com/the-rational-dress-reform-movement/ 

Forman-Sarno, O. (2024, 2 7). Scandalous or Progressive? A History of Victorian Dress Reform. The Science Survey. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://thesciencesurvey.com/spotlight/2024/02/07/scandalous-or-progressive-a-history-of-victorian-dress-reform/

How Clothes Rationing Affected Fashion In World War 2. (n.d.). Imperial War Museums. Retrieved September 2, 2025, from https://www.iwm.org.uk/history/how-clothes-rationing-affected-fashion-in-the-second-world-war 

Maisey, S. (2025, August 21). The surprisingly political history of pockets in women's clothing | The National. The National News. Retrieved September 2, 2025, from https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/luxury/2025/08/21/the-surprisingly-political-history-of-pockets-in-womens-clothing/ 

Trousers as women's clothing. (2025, 4 12). Wikipedia. Retrieved 8 3, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trousers_as_women%27s_clothing 

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC. 

In this festive episode of Murder of Crones, join hosts Kori, Jen, and Zabrina as they explore quirky and meaningful holiday traditions from around the world. From the fiery fate of Sweden's Gävle Goat to Iceland's mischievous Yule Lads, and the surprising Christmas customs in Japan, this episode is a delightful journey through global celebrations. Tune in for laughter, insights, and a touch of holiday magic as the hosts share their own family traditions and discuss the balance of light and dark in festive folklore. Don't miss this heartwarming and humorous holiday special!

Show Notes

Summary:

In this festive episode of Murder of Crones, hosts Kori, Jen, and Zabrina explore quirky and meaningful holiday traditions from around the world. From the fiery fate of Sweden's Gävle Goat to Iceland's mischievous Yule Lads, and the surprising Christmas customs in Japan, this episode is a delightful journey through global celebrations. Tune in for laughter, insights, and a touch of holiday magic as the hosts share their own family traditions and discuss the balance of light and dark in festive folklore.

Takeaways:

• The Gävle Goat in Sweden is a giant straw sculpture that often gets burned down during the holiday season.
• Iceland’s Yule Lads are 13 mischievous trolls that visit children during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas.
• In Japan, eating KFC for Christmas dinner has become a popular tradition.
• The Yule Cat in Icelandic folklore is said to eat those who don’t receive new clothes for Christmas. 
• Krampus is a horned figure from Central European folklore that punishes naughty children during the holiday season. 
• In Catalonia, the El Caganer is a figurine in nativity scenes that symbolizes fertility and renewal. 
• The Christmas Book Flood in Iceland involves exchanging books and reading them on Christmas Eve.
• The Caga Tió in Catalonia is a log that “poops” candy when beaten with sticks by children.
• The episode discusses the balance of light and dark in holiday traditions.
• Hosts share their own family traditions and the importance of handmade gifts

Chapters:

00:00  Co-Host Banter Only Fans & 

03:50  Introduction to Global Traditions

04:53  The Gävle Goat's Fiery Fate

14:27  Iceland's Yule Lads and Yule Cat

35:53  Krampus: The Dark Side of Christmas

44:12  Japan's KFC Christmas

51:00  Catalonia's El Caganer and Caga Tió  

57:38  Hosts' Family Traditions and Reflections

References:

Amades, J. (1950). Costumari Català: El curs de l'any. Barcelona: Salvat.    Árni Björnsson. (2000). Christmas in Iceland. Reykjavík: Mál og menning.  Gävle Municipality. (n.d.). The Gävle Goat. https://www.gavle.se/\                  Ridenour, A. (2016). The Krampus and the Old, Dark Christmas: Roots and Rebirth of the Folkloric Devil. Feral House.                                                                                                                           

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Rogers Community TV in the Kootenays and East Okanagan, British Columbia.

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

In this episode Zab, Jen, and Kori will look at one of the deepest cultural wounds in human history: The  erasure of the goddess. Across cultures, we see patterns of women being recast as sinners, temptresses, or being treated like they are of lesser importance, while their true roles as leaders, healers, warriors, and teachers were erased.  We will discuss the negative impacts of this erasure on both the masculine and the feminine.

Show notes:

Summary: In this conversation, Zab, Kori and Jen explore the theme of the erasure of the goddess and the historical vilification of women in religious narratives. They delve into the story of Mary Magdalene, discussing her misrepresentation as a prostitute and the implications of this narrative on women’s roles in society. The conversation highlights the impact of patriarchal structures on female figures throughout history, examining how women have been erased or vilified in various cultural contexts. The hosts also discuss the importance of reclaiming female authority and the need to recognize matriarchal societies that celebrated the divine feminine. 

Takeaways:

The erasure of the goddess has deep cultural roots.

Mary Magdalene was misrepresented by the church.

• Patriarchal narratives have historically vilified women.
• The church has begun to acknowledge women's roles.
• Women in history have often been erased or vilified.
• Eve's name signifies life, yet she is blamed for sin.
• Cultural narratives shape our understanding of women.
• The divine feminine is essential for balance in society.
• Matriarchal societies existed and were egalitarian.
• Reclaiming female authority is crucial for modern feminism.

Chapters:

00:00 Unexpected Mishaps and Humor

02:57 The Erasure of the Goddess Intro

05:49 Mary Magdalane: A misunderstood Figure

08:41 The Impact of Patriarchy on Women’s Roles

11:45 Reclaiming Spiritual Authority

14:41 The Journey of Understanding Religion 

19:27 Political Agenda of the Church

21:43 The Canon and its Implications

25:08 The Search for Missing Manuscripts

28:22 Women in History: Erasure and Vilification 

33:52 Matriarchal Societies and Women Warriors

Reference:

Eisler, Riane. *The Chalice and the Blade: Our History, Our Future*. Harper & Row, 1987.

Federici, Silvia. *Caliban and the Witch: Women, the Body and Primitive Accumulation*. Autonomedia, 2004.

Gimbutas, Marija. *The Civilization of the Goddess: The World of Old Europe*. HarperSanFrancisco, 1991.

King, Karen L. *The Gospel of Mary of Magdala: Jesus and the First Woman Apostle*. Polebridge Press, 2003.

Lerner, Gerda. *The Creation of Patriarchy*. Oxford University Press, 1986.

Rich, Adrienne. *Midnight Salvage: Poems 1995–1998*. W.W. Norton, 1999.

Watterson, Meggan. *Mary Magdalene Revealed: The First Apostle, Her Feminist Gospel, & the Christianity We Haven’t Tried Yet*. Hay House, 2019.

Hooks, Bell. *The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love*. Atria Books, 2004.

de Beauvoir, Simone. *The Second Sex*. Translated by Constance Borde and Sheila Malovany-Chevallier, Vintage, 2011.

Council on Foreign Relations. *Women’s Participation in Peace Processes*. Council on Foreign Relations, 2022.

United Nations. *Preventing Conflict, Transforming Justice, Securing the Peace: A Global Study on the Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325*. UN Women, 2015.

Gregory I (Pope). Homily 33, 591 CE. (Earliest source linking Mary Magdalene with the 'sinful woman' of Luke). The Holy Bible, New Revised Standard Version. National Council of Churches, 1989.

*Homebrewed Christianity* Podcast. Interview with Elizabeth A. Johnson on Feminist Theology. Homebrewed Christianity, 2017.

*The Woman King*. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, performances

Contact Information: FindMurder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : 

mofcrones@gmail.com

Get ready to dive into the untold story of menopause! In this eye-opening episode, Jen, Kori and Zab shine a spotlight on the glaring gaps in research and the need for a louder conversation. With personal stories and fresh insights, we challenge the status quo and call for a revolution in women's health. Tune in and be part of the change!

Show Notes:

Summary: Hosts Jen, Kori and Zabrina discuss the complexities of menopause, exploring medical research, personal experiences with hormone replacement therapy, and the cultural perceptions surrounding this natural phase of life. They discuss the lack of comprehensive research on women;s health issues, the importance of community support, and the need for open conversations about menopause.They also touch base on the contrast between traditional knowledge and modern medical practices, emphasizing the significance of sharing experiences among women to navigate this transition effectively.

Takeaways:

• Menopause research is often lacking and not comprehensive.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a personal choice and not a one-size-fits-all solution. 
• Quality of life during menopause is a priority for many women.
• Cultural perceptions of menopause can greatly influence women’s experiences.
• Community support is crucial for women going through menopause.
• Women often suffer in silence due to societal expectations. 
• Open conversations about menopause can help break the stigma.
• Traditional knowledge about menopause is valuable and should be recognized.
• The medicalization of menopause can overlook its natural aspects.
• Sharing personal experiences can empower women to seek help and support.

Reference:

Munshi, A., & Garg, R. (2024). The Medicalization of Menopause: Understanding the Evolution of Treatment Approaches. Journal of mid-life health, 15(3), 133–134. https://doi.org/10.4103/jmh.jmh_153_24

Reid, Robert L. Menopause Medicine: Past, Present, and Future. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada , Volume 41, S347 - S349

Patricia Kaufert, Margaret Lock, Sonja McKinlay, Yewoubdar Beyenne, Jean Coope, Donna Davis, Mona Eliasson, Maryvonne Gognalons-Nicolet, Madeleine Goodman, Arne Holte. Menopause research: The Korpilampi workshop, Social Science & Medicine, Volume 22, Issue 11, 1986,Pages 1285-1289, ISSN 0277-9536, https://doi.org/10.1016/0277-9536(86)90196-6. 

Contact Information:

Find @MurderofCrones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram.

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Join hosts Zabrina, Jen, and Kori as they delve into the chilling tale of Elizabeth Bathory, the infamous Blood Countess of the 1600s. Explore the blend of historical truths, myths, and superstitions surrounding her life, and uncover the political and social dynamics that fuelled her legend. This Halloween edition promises a captivating journey through history's dark corners. Don't miss out on this intriguing episode of "Murder of Crones."

Show Notes:

Keywords: Elizabeth Bathory, Blood Countess, historical myths, Hungary, nobility, witchcraft, gender bias, political intrigue, folklore, true crime

Summary: This episode delves into the life legacy of Elizabeth Bathory, often referred to as the Blood Countess. The discussion explores the historical context of her life. The investigations and accusations against her, the myths and legends that have arisen over time, and the political and social factors that may have influenced her story. The speakers analyze the blurred lines between fact and fiction, ultimately questioning the veracity of the claims against her and the motivations behind them. 

Takeaways:

• Elizabeth Bathory was a powerful noblewoman in Hungary
• Her life was marked by accusation of extreme cruelty and murder.
• Investigations into her actions were influenced by political motives.
• The number of her alleged victims  vary widely in historical accounts.
• Bathory’s story has been embellished over time, leading to myths.
• She was never formally tried for her alleged crimes.
• The context of gender and power dynamics played a significant role in her story.
• Many of the legends surrounding her are unsubstantiated.
• Her legacy continues to be a topic of fascination and debate.
• The historical record is often murky, making it difficult to discern truth from myth.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Setup

13:48 The Rise of Power and Cruelty

16:15 Escalation of Torture and Murmurs of Disapperance 

18:58 The Dark Nature of Human Behaviour

22:11 Elizabeth Bathory’s Rise to Infamy

25:06 Investigating the Accusations 

27:46 The Trial and its Complications 

35:30 The Dark Legacy of Elizabeth Bathory

38:56 Myth vs Reality: The Truth Behind the Legend

42:49 The Origins of the Blood Countess Myth

46:58 Political Intrigue and Gender Dynamics

51:23 The Intersection of Legend and Historical Fact

52:43 Exploring the Story of Elizabeth Bathory 

54:26 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments 

Referrence

Craft, Kimberly L. Infamous Lady: The True Story of Countess Erzsébet Báthory. Academia Historical Press, 2009.

Craft, Kimberly L. “Letters from Cachtice: New Findings in the Báthory Archives.” Central European Review of History, Vol. 3 (2012).

“Elizabeth Báthory.” (n.d.). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Báthory

“Elizabeth Báthory Facts.” (n.d.). Elizabeth Bathory: The Blood Countess. http://elizabethbathory.net

Folkloric/Secondary “Blood bath” legend first appeared in Valentinus Rozsnyai’s pamphlet Tragoedia von der Bößen Gräfin Elisabeth Báthory zu Csejthe (1729).

History Collection. (n.d.). The Real Countess Dracula: 12 Facts about the Life and Crimes of Elizabeth Bathory. http://historycollection.com

History Tools. (n.d.). The Blood Countess: Separating Fact from Fiction in the Case of Elizabeth Bathory. http://historytools.org

Letters from the Báthory Family Archive (Nyírbátor Collection, 16th c.) — referenced in Craft (2009).

Folkloric/Unverified Accounts – Rumor of a peasant lover and secret pregnancy (László Turoczy, Magyar Népmondák a Felvidékr  1908).

Magyari, István. Letter to the Palatine of Hungary (Miklós Zrinyi), ca. 1602–1604. Hungarian State Archive Ref. HS-Báthory-1604/7.

Nagy, László. The Blood Countess of Hungary. Budapest Historical Society, 1895 (reprint 1962).

Pálffy, Géza. The Ottoman–Habsburg Frontier and the Kingdom of Hungary (1526–1608). Cambridge University Press, 2000.

Penrose, Valentine. The Bloody Countess: Atrocities of Erzsebet Bathory. 1963.

Racz, István. “Witchcraft and Class Politics in 17th-Century Hungary.” History Today, Vol. 67 (2017).

Szádeczky, Dr. Irma. “Gender and Power in Sixteenth-Century Hungary.” Hungarian Historical Review, Vol. 4 (2017): 211–229.

Testimony of Dorottya Szentes, 1611 trial record, Transcript Collection #II-34, National Archives of Hungary.

Thorne, Tony. “Bathory Revisited: Fact vs Folklore.” European Journal of Cultural History, Vol. 11 (1999): 45–61.

Thorne, Tony. Countess Dracula: The Life and Times of the Blood Countess Elizabeth Báthory. Bloomsbury, 1997.

Tóth, Endre. Erzsébet Báthory and Her Times: Trial Records and Historical Context. Budapest Historical Institute, 2005.

Transylvanian Court Records, 1560–1600 (cited in Craft 2009). Folkloric/Secondary “Clawed glove” and “honey torture” stories from rural legends (Hungarian Folklore Journal, Vol. 12, 1898).

Contact Information: Find @MurderofCrones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Join us as we unravel the tangled web of media and pop culture's impact on body image. From the 'Twiggy' era to today's Instagram filters, we expose the absurdity of chasing the 'perfect' body. Tune in for a cheeky critique of diet culture and a call for embracing all shapes and sizes. It's time to ditch the scales and celebrate real beauty!

Show Notes:

Keywords: diet culture, body image, feminism, health, weight loss, patriarchy, women’s rights, societal standards, wellness and lifestyle, social media

Summary: In this episode, co-host’s Kori, Zabrina, and Jen explore the pervasive influence of diet culture on women’s body image and health, tracing back to the 1920s to present. They discuss the societal pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, the emergence of diet fads, and the psychological impact of dieting. The conversation highlights personal experiences with body image and the historical context of dieting practices, including the rise of Weight Watchers and the normalization of diet pills. Ultimately, the episode critiques the flawed belief systems surrounding health and weight loss, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach to well-being. 

Takeaways: 

• Diet culture is deeply ingrained in society and affects self-perception. 
• The 1920s marked the beginning of mainstream dieting for women.
• Twiggy’s thinness set a new standard for body image in the 60s.
• Weight Watchers helped to enforce a moral framework around food consumption.
• Diet pills were widely prescribed without consideration for health risks.
• Disordered eating was often dismissed as trivial issues.
• The ideal body image has shifted over the decades but remains influenced by patriarchy.
• Public weigh-ins and accountability in diet programs can be psychologically damaging.
• The conversation around health should include emotional and mental well-being.
• Personal experiences with body image reveal the lasting impact of societal standards.

Chapters:

00:00 - Tech Troubles and Puppy Chaos

01:25 - Introduction to Diet Culture

05:48 - The Myths of Weight Loss and Health 

08:25 - Defining Diet Culture

10:08 - The 1920s: A Decade of Dieting

14:34 - The Dark Side of Dieting: Tapeworms and Nicotine

18:13 - Cultural Shifts in the 1940’s and 50’s

22:05 - The Domestic Ideal and Body Image

27:07 - The Rise of DIet Culture

35:31 - Changing Standards

References:

Bordo, S. (1993). Unbearable Weight : Feminism, Western Culture, And The Body. Berkeley Univ Of California Press.

British Columbia Ministry of Health. (2023, March 28). *Province takes actions to prevent shortage of diabetes drug*. Retrieved from Government of British Columbia website.

Cameron, C., Craig, C. L., & Paolin, S. (1997). Local health-related behaviors: Are there differences? Canadian Journal of Public Health, 88(1), 32–36. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9220950/

Jones, J. M., Bennett, S., Olmsted, M. P., Lawson, M. L., & Rodin, G. (2001). Disordered eating attitudes and behaviours in teenaged girls: A school-based study. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 165(5), 547–552. https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.165.5.547

Minks, B. (2022). The Anti-Diet Workbook. Simon and Schuster.

National Institute of Nutrition. (1996). Tracking nutrition trends: 1989–1994. Ottawa, ON: National Institute of Nutrition.

Contact Information: Find @MurderofCrones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Buckle up for a wild ride through the annals of medical history as we tackle the curious case of hysteria—a ”condition” that had doctors scratching their heads and women rolling their eyes. Discover how the so-called treatments led to the invention of the vibrator, turning a medical misstep into a modern-day marvel. It’s a tale of misguided medicine, gender politics, and a gadget that went from the doctor’s office to the bedside table.

Show Notes:

Keywords: feminism, hysteria, vibrators, female empowerment, sexual health, history of sexuality, Rachel Maines, medical history, women’s rights, sexual liberation 

Summary: This conversation explores the historical context of female hysteria, the evolution of vibrators, and the societal implications of women’s sexual health. The hosts discuss the medical treatments for hysteria, the role of vibrators in women’s empowerment, and the cultural perceptions surrounding female pleasure. They also highlight the work of Rachel Maines and the impact of vibrators on women’s sexual liberation. 

Takeaways: 

• Hysteria was historically linked to women’s emotions and sexuality. 
• Vibrators were initially seen as medical devices, not sexual tools.
• Rachel Maines’ research highlighted the connection between vibrators and female empowerment.
• Many women were treated for hysteria due to societal expectation of female behaviour.
• The medical community often pathologized normal female experiences.
• Coin-operated vibrators were a unique aspect of early 20th-century culture.
• The perception of female pleasure has evolved but still faces challenges.
• Vibrators were marketed as personal massagers to avoid stigma.
• The history of vibrators reflects broader societal attitudes towards women’s sexuality.
• Understanding the past can inform current discussions about female pleasure and health.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to the Murder of Crones

00:01 - Exploring Female Hysteria and Its Historical Context

05:11 - The Disturbing Treatments for Hysteria

09:31 - The Intervention of Vibrators and Their Purpose

13:09 - The Evolution of Vibrators Through History

16:58 - The Evolution of Personal Massage 

17:59 - Historical Context of Female Pleasure Devices

19:01 - Hand Crank Vibrators: A Look Back

21:46 - The Advent of Portable Vibrators

28:18 - The Hand-Worn Vibrator: A New Approach

30:07 - Coin Operated Vibrators in Hotel Rooms

References: 

A Free Ride (A Grass Sandwich). (ca. 1915). Silent stag film, United States. (Referenced as one of 

the earliest surviving American pornographic films).

Antique Vibrator Museum. (n.d.). Good Vibrations, San Francisco. Founded by Joani Blank; curated 

by Dr. Carol Queen. Retrieved from https://www.goodvibes.com/museum

Hippocrates. (4th century BCE). Writings on the “wandering womb” (hysteria) as the cause of hysteria 

symptoms. 

Hysteria. (2011). Directed by Tanya Wexler; starring Maggie Gyllenhaal & Hugh Dancy. Sony

Pictures Classics. (A fictionalized retelling of the vibrator’s invention).

Landers, A. (1985, July 1). Ann Landers’ advice column [Syndicated newspaper column]. Chicago 

Tribune. (Referenced survey of women’s sexual preferences).

Lloyd, E. A. (2005). The case of the female orgasm: Bias in the science of evolution.Harvard University

Maines, R. P. (1999). The technology of orgasm: “Hysteria,” the vibrator, and women’s sexual

satisfaction. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.

Puts, D. A., Dawood, K., & Welling, L. L. (2012). Why women have orgasms: An evolutionary analysis.

Archives of Sexual Behavior, 41(5), 1127–1143.

Sears, Roebuck & Co. Catalogs (1890s–1920s). Advertisements for “female massagers” and health 

devices.

Smith, E. H. (1903). Diseases of women: Diagnosis and treatment. (Referenced for historical 

attitudes toward masturbation and hysteria).

19th-century medical practices: Treatments for hysteria including pelvic massage, hydrotherapy, and early 

electromechanical vibrators (Granville’s Percuteur, 1880s).

Welcome back for part 2 of Sex Myths. In this episode, we explore common myths about sex and desire in long-term relationships, aiming to shed light on the realities that often go unspoken. Our conversations unravel misconceptions that can hinder intimacy, offering insight and encouragement for enduring love lives.

Show Notes 

Takeaways:

• The myth that love naturally sustains desire over time
• How desire evolves with age and changes in life circumstances
• The impact of societal expectations and myths about aging and sexuality
• The role of emotional safety, distance, and separation in maintaining desire
• The influence of societal norms, porn, and cultural stories on expectations
• The significance of communication and honesty about intimacy
• The effects of parenthood and life transitions on sexuality
• Challenging the idea that sexual frequency equals health
• The importance of individual external lives and separate interests
• How myths about sexual performance and aging can create unnecessary stress

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to the myths surrounding long-term sex and desire    02:17 - Why silence and shame impact ongoing intimacy                          04:46 - The myth that desire fades as love endures                                        10:05 - How opening relationships doesn't necessarily restore desire      13:54 - The historical and cultural context of sexuality in different eras        17:28 - Impact of societal beliefs about spontaneous desire                          22:19 - The challenge of keeping the spark alive and the myth of eternal passion                                                                                                                  26:40 - The effectiveness of date nights and creating space for eroticism  29:47 - Differentiating closeness and desire, and the importance of healthy separation                                                                                                35:10 - How desire fluctuates with life phases and age                                    43:06 - Common misconceptions that low desire signals relationship failure                                                                                                                    47:30 - The influence of porn, fantasy, and societal narratives on expectations                                                                                                      50:01 - The myth that aging ends eroticism and desire

Note: For a more comprehensive understanding, we recommend reading Esther Perel’s work, which guides much of our discussion today. The episode emphasizes that desire and intimacy in long-term relationships are dynamic, and myths only serve to create unnecessary pressure. Honest communication, ongoing self-awareness, and redefining societal narratives are key to sustaining a healthy, passionate love life as the years go by.

References

Basson, R. (2001). Using a different model for female sexual response to address women’s problematic low sexual desire. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 27(5), 395–403. https://doi.org/10.1080/009262301753148637

Baumeister, R. F., Catanese, K. R., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Is there a gender difference in strength of sex drive? Personality and Social Psychology Review, 5(3), 242–273. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327957PSPR0503_5

Bogaert, A. F. (2004). Asexuality: Prevalence and associated factors. The Journal of Sex Research, 41(3), 279–287. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224490409552235

Hamilton, L. D., & Meston, C. M. (2013). Chronic stress and sexual function in women. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 42(7), 1349–1359. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-012-0044-0

Leitenberg, H., & Henning, K. (1995). Sexual fantasy. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 469–496. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.117.3.469

Lindau, S. T., Schumm, L. P., Laumann, E. O., Levinson, W., O’Muircheartaigh, C. A., & Waite, L. J. (2007). A study of sexuality and health among older adults. New England Journal of Medicine, 357(8), 762–774. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa067423

Muise, A., Schimmack, U., & Impett, E. A. (2016). Sexual frequency predicts greater well-being. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 7(4), 295–302. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550615616462

Perel, E. (2006). Mating in captivity: Unlocking erotic intelligence. HarperCollins.

Contact Information: Find Murder of Crones on You Tube, Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram. 

Email : mofcrones@gmail.com

Special Thanks to www.dinnissendesign.com for Zabrina’s use of their show room for recording. Check them out for all your interior design needs. Dinnissen Design is located in Vancouver and Castlegar BC.