Caldrons, Curses, and Corrosives

From the soap vats of Correggio to the imperial courts of Rome, these women turned domestic life into a deadly art form. This episode explores the dark legacies of Leonarda Cianciulli and Locusta of Gaul, two notorious figures who proved that the most dangerous weapon isn't always a blade—sometimes, it’s a tea cake or a poisoned fig.

In this episode, we explore:

Leonarda Cianciulli (The Soap-Maker of Correggio):

The Mother’s Curse: How a childhood hex led Leonarda into a world of superstition and human sacrifice.

The Macabre Recipe: The gruesome details of how she processed three neighbors into soap and "crunchy" tea cakes to protect her son during WWII.

Locusta of Gaul (Rome’s First Serial Killer):

Imperial Assassin: How an ancient herbalist became the go-to poisoner for Emperors, serving the deadly whims of Agrippina and Nero.

The Professionalization of Poison: A look at Locusta’s state-sanctioned "school of poisoning" and her role in the downfall of Roman royalty.

A Shared Legacy: Comparing the motivations of these two women—one driven by maternal mania, the other by cold, political ambition.

Note: This episode includes graphic descriptions of historical crimes and may not be suitable for all listeners.

🆘 Mental Health & Support Resources

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.

In Canada:

Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or Text 9-8-8 (24/7, bilingual, trauma-informed support).
Wellness Together Canada: Call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741.
Shelter Safe: Visit sheltersafe.ca to find a local women’s shelter and support hotline.
Hope for Wellness Help Line (Indigenous Peoples): Call 1-855-242-3310 (24/7).

In the USA:

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788.
RAINN (Sexual Assault Hotline): Call 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).

International:

To find a crisis center in your country, please visit: The International Association for Suicide Prevention

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