This episode examines what connects witchcraft, possession, exorcism and the modern Roman Catholic Church, with special guest, Dr. Francis Young, esteemed folklorist, author and historian in the field of religion and belief. Dr. Young guides us through the intricate world of Catholic demonology, shedding light on the complex relationship between witchcraft and demonic possession. Exploring the dichotomy between official doctrine and popular beliefs, we touch on the cultural and regional variations in belief and practice among Catholics globally. Dr. Young's insightfully provided a fascinating explanation on how diverse interpretations of these phenomena manifest within different communities. We explore the risks of exorcism, examining the tragic case of Annaliese Michel and its lasting impact on the church's approach to these rites. As the episode unfolds, we contemplate future navigation of witchcraft and exorcism. Join us as we continue the message and questions: Why do we witch hunt? How do we witch hunt? How do we stop hunting witches?
Links
Sign the MA Witch Hunt Justice Project Petition
Support Us! Buy Book Titles Mentioned in this Episode from our Book Shop
Support Us! Sign up as a Super Listener
Support Us! Buy Witch Trial Merch!
Support Us! Buy Podcast Merch!
Join us on Discord to share your ideas and feedback.
Popular Podcasts
Two Guys, Five Rings: Matt, Bowen & The Olympics
Two Guys (Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers). Five Rings (you know, from the Olympics logo). One essential podcast for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Bowen Yang (SNL, Wicked) and Matt Rogers (Palm Royale, No Good Deed) of Las Culturistas are back for a second season of Two Guys, Five Rings, a collaboration with NBC Sports and iHeartRadio. In this 15-episode event, Bowen and Matt discuss the top storylines, obsess over Italian culture, and find out what really goes on in the Olympic Village.
iHeartOlympics: The Latest
Listen to the latest news from the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina are here and have everyone talking. iHeartPodcasts is buzzing with content in honor of the XXV Winter Olympics We’re bringing you episodes from a variety of iHeartPodcast shows to help you keep up with the action. Follow Milan Cortina Winter Olympics so you don’t miss any coverage of the 2026 Winter Olympics, and if you like what you hear, be sure to follow each Podcast in the feed for more great content from iHeartPodcasts.