45: The Soap Maker of Correggio

04/15/24 • 48 min

In this chilling episode, we delve into the twisted tale of Leonarda Cianciulli, better known as The Soap Maker of Correggio. Join us as we uncover the shocking details of her life and crimes that earned her this infamous title.

Born in 1893 in Italy, Leonarda's early life was marred by tragedy and superstition. From a traumatic childhood to ominous prophecies from fortune tellers, her path seemed destined for darkness. But it was her belief in a mother's curse and her desperate attempts to protect her son during World War II that led Leonarda down a path of unimaginable horror.

With meticulous planning and cunning deception, Leonarda lured her victims into her grasp, promising them a better life. Yet, behind her facade as the town's nurturing mother figure lay a cold-blooded killer with a macabre plan. Each victim met a gruesome fate, their bodies transformed into soap and tea cakes consumed by unsuspecting neighbors.

As the death toll rose, Leonarda's facade began to crack. Suspicion grew, leading to her eventual arrest and a trial that shocked the nation. But even in confinement, Leonarda's story remained shrouded in mystery and horror.
Stay spooky, friends, and sweet dreams! (And also, maybe don't eat before listening to this episode.)
Sean- another fabulous job, as always! Thank you for your hard work getting this episode together!
SOURCES:
Wiki- Leonarda Cianciulli
All That's Interesting- Leonarda Cianciulli
The Crimes of Leonarda Cianciulli
Murderpedia- Leonarda Cianciulli
Leonarda Cianciulli- The Soap Maker of Correggio

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Previous Episode

44: Spontaneous Human Combustion

In this episode, Char describes a variety of true stories to Ashely about Spontaneous human combustion. Spontaneous human combustion (SHC) is a term used to describe instances where a human body supposedly catches fire and burns without an apparent external source of ignition. These cases are extremely rare and controversial, with much debate surrounding their scientific validity.

Typically, reports of SHC involve the discovery of a burned body with little damage to its surroundings. Proponents of the phenomenon suggest various theories to explain it, including the build-up of flammable gases within the body, unusual chemical reactions, or even paranormal explanations.

However, the scientific community generally views spontaneous human combustion skeptically. Many experts argue that there is no convincing evidence to support the existence of SHC as a distinct phenomenon. Instead, they propose that supposed cases of SHC can be explained by more conventional means, such as accidental ignition from external sources like cigarettes, candles, or faulty wiring.

Despite the lack of scientific consensus, the topic of spontaneous human combustion continues to fascinate the public and has been the subject of various theories, investigations, and works of fiction.

As always, a big shout out to, Sean, our producer for making these episodes sound like we know what we're doing!!
Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!!!

SOURCES:

Spontaneous Human Combustion: The Truth Behind The Phenomenon (allthatsinteresting.com)

Is Spontaneous Human Combustion Real? | Britannica

Spontaneous human combustion - Wikipedia

Death of Mary Reeser - Wikipedia

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Next Episode

46: Japan's Aokigahara Forest

Aokigahara Forest, also known as the Sea of Trees or Suicide Forest, is a dense woodland located at the northwest base of Mount Fuji in Japan. It's infamous for being a site where many people go to end their lives. The forest has a tragic reputation due to the high number of suicides that occur there annually. Despite efforts by local authorities and volunteers to prevent suicides and provide support to those in distress, Aokigahara remains a challenging place, shrouded in mystery and sadness. While the forest itself is undoubtedly eerie and haunting, it's essential to remember the underlying human suffering that contributes to its dark reputation.
Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!
Thank you to Sean for editing our ramblings into something meaningful!
SOURCES:

Japan's Suicide Forest: 33 Creepy Facts about Aokigahara | Best Life (bestlifeonline.com)

The Silent Sorrow of the Haunted Aokigahara Forest - Moon Mausoleum

15 Eerie Facts About Japan’s Suicide Forest (mentalfloss.com)

Aokigahara - Wikipedia

Tengu - Wikipedia

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