
Witch Hunt
Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack

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Top 10 Witch Hunt Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Witch Hunt episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Witch Hunt for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Witch Hunt episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Ikponwosa Ero on Ending Witch Hunts
Witch Hunt
01/10/24 • 57 min
In this profound interview, Ikponwosa Ero unpacks her work advocating for human rights of victims of witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks. As a lawyer and a former United Nations Independent Expert on the Rights of Persons with Albinism, she shares her professional journey and personal experience as an advocate with albinism. Through the interview, she provides extensive data on the nature and scale of the problem, explaining the global presence of harmful practices beyond Africa, in North and South America and Europe. She talks about her contribution at the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of human rights framework in combating these harmful practices. The conversation also covers the need for grassroots collaborations, the collection of reliable data, the importance of cross-movement partnerships, and the role of climate change in these harmful practices.
Recommended Reading
United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacksPapua New Guinea Sorcery and Witchcraft Accusation-Related Violence National Action PlanPan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual AttacksReport of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights: Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization
Recommended ViewingIK Ero On Next Steps For Ending Witch Hunts TINAAWAHPSanguma: Everybody’s BusinessNational Action PlanI Am Not a WitchSaving Africa's Witch ChildrenWebsites of NoteEnd Witch HuntsThe International Network against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful PracticesGrassroots organizations working with The International NetworkInternational Alliance to End Witch HuntsStop Sorcery ViolenceStorymap explaining the dynamics of sorcery accusation related violence
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09/06/22 • 2 min
In this two-minute trailer, the hosts introduce themselves and the show.
Thou Shalt Not Suffer premieres October 6, 2022. The show features the stories of real people accused of witchcraft, interviews with leading witch trial researchers and activists, and news on the witch-hunts happening in your world now. Subscribe or follow today.
https://www.thoushaltnotsuffer.com
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/joshhutchinson/thou-shalt-not-suffer
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Witch Hunt Victim Stories: John Procter
Witch Hunt
08/24/24 • 16 min
In this episode of Witch Hunt, host Josh Hutchinson explores the life and tragic fate of John Procter, a victim of the Salem Witch Trials. Hutchinson begins by introducing the real John Procter, contrasting him with Arthur Miller's portrayal in "The Crucible." The episode delves into Procter's background and family life, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the man behind the infamous trial.
The narrative unfolds with the events leading to John and Elizabeth Procter's accusations of witchcraft. Hutchinson details their examinations and trials, offering insight into the intense scrutiny and unfair treatment they faced. A highlight of the episode is John Procter's eloquent petition to ministers in Boston, which demonstrates his intelligence and desperation in the face of impending doom.
The podcast recounts the heartbreaking tale of the hangings, including John's execution and Elizabeth's narrow escape due to her pregnancy. Hutchinson then explores the aftermath of the trials for Elizabeth and the Procter children, shedding light on the long-lasting impact of the witch hunt on their family.
Listeners learn about the legal battles that ensued following the trials, including efforts to clear the Procters' names. The episode traces the timeline of these efforts, noting that Elizabeth's attainder was reversed in 1703, while John's was not cleared until 1711. The Massachusetts government's restitution payments to the Procter family in 1712 are also discussed, providing a sense of the belated attempts at justice.
Throughout the episode, Hutchinson shares notable quotes, including Elizabeth Procter's poignant statement during her examination: "I take God in heaven to be my witness that I know nothing of it, no more than the child unborn." These firsthand accounts bring the historical events to life, allowing listeners to connect more deeply with the Procters' experiences.
The show notes also mention the Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project (massachusettswitchtrials.org) for those interested in supporting an official apology for the witch trials. This information provides listeners with a way to engage with the historical issues raised in the podcast.
Finally, the episode touches on the enduring legacy of John and Elizabeth Procter, mentioning that their farm was featured on HGTV's Farmhouse Fixer. This modern connection demonstrates how the story of the Procters continues to captivate public interest, bridging the gap between historical events and contemporary culture.
Emerson W. Baker, A Storm of Witchcraft: The Salem Trials and the American Experience
Mary Beth Norton, In the Devil's Snare: The Salem Witchcraft Crisis of 1692
Bernard Rosenthal, editor, Records of the Salem Witch-Hunt
Daniel A. Gagnon, A Salem Witch: The Trial, Execution, and Exoneration of Rebecca Nurse
Marilynne K. Roach, The Salem Witch Trials: A Day-By-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege
Emerson W. Baker, The Devil of Great Island: Witchcraft and Conflict in Early New England
Stacy Schiff, The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem

Episode 2 Teaser Trailer
Witch Hunt
09/22/22 • 3 min
We discuss why victims of witch trials in colonial Connecticut should be exonerated.
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10/05/23 • 53 min
Esteemed Historian, Folklorist and Author Owen Davies talks about his upcoming new book release: Art of the Grimoire: An Illustrated History of Magic Books and Spells available Oct, 10th. Every culture and every period has magic. Learn about the global history of written magic and how it has evolved in conjunction with religion and science. This episode continues the message and questions: Why do we witch hunt? How do we witch hunt? How do we stop hunting witches?
Links
Owen Davies, Professor at University of Hertfordshire
Buy Art of the Grimoire: An Illustrated History of Magic Books and Spells by Owen Davies
Buy America Bewitched Book by Owen Davies
Support Us! Buy Book Titles Mentioned in this Episode from our Book Shop
Purchase a Witch Trial White Rose Memorial Button
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Support Us! Buy Witch Trial Merch!
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Join us on Discord to share your ideas and feedback.
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11/02/23 • 49 min
Today we talk about the complexities of witch hunting across India with advocates Dr. Samantha Spence and Dr. Amit Anand from the organization, The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices. This conversation highlights how intersectional factors such as legislation, culture, religion, superstition, gender, and status tie into the manifestation of witchcraft fear and resultant violence in unique communities. What solutions can work on the ground?
We consider: Why do we witch hunt? How do we witch hunt? How do we stop hunting witches?
Links
The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices
Interview with Greater Boston, Josh Hutchinson, and Dr. Emerson Baker (at 15:38)
Two of Windsor: Accused and Exonerated of Witchcraft with Beth Caruso
Preservation Connecticut Presentation: Sarah Jack and Josh Hutchinson
Fox Live Now, Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack
Before there was Salem, there was Connecticut with Dr. Kathy Hermes and Sarah Jack
Washington Post, Josh Hutchinson Interview
Petition to recognize those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts
List of those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts
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Thou Shalt Not Suffer Podcast Book Store
Support Us! Buy Witch Trial Merch!
Support Us! Buy Podcast Merch!
Join us on Discord to share your ideas and feedback.
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02/21/24 • 51 min
We expand our advocacy discussion on modern day witch hunts and human rights abuses associated with accusations related to witchcraft to Ghana. Guest Peter Mintir Amadu is the Executive Director of the Total Life Enhancement Center (TOLEC) Ghana, a non-profit organization dedicated to community mental health advocacy and support. Amadu discusses TOLEC's immersive and strategic engagement with witch hunt survivors, including psychological assessments and group and individual therapies to address trauma. Despite the challenges of severly scarce resources and logistical difficulties, TOLEC aims to bolster specialized support in ongoing efforts.
This episode of ‘Witch Hunt’ underscores the necessity of increased intersectional cooperation, funding, and international awareness to tackle the global phenomenon of witch hunts.
Recommended Reading
Websites of Note
Total Life Enhancement Center, Ghana
The Sanneh Institute: Research, Religious, Society
Songtaba.org Securing Basic Rights for Women and Girls
Women's International League for Peace and Freedom
Why Witch Hunts are not just a Dark Chapter from the Past
The International Network against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices
Grassroots organizations working with The International Network

12/28/23 • 49 min
This week Jamie Franklin, Director of Collections and Exhibitions at Bennington Museum in Vermont recounts the life and experiences of the accused witch Margaret Krieger. Jamie details what is known of her life and her 1785 trial. Learn about the broader context of the time period, the unique colonial history of the Southern Vermont region and the relevance of this topic even today. Integral to the discussion is Joyce Held's research on Margaret's life, the Pownal Historical Society's role in erecting a historic marker, and the public dedication ceremony for the marker, aiming to honor Margaret Krieger's memory. This lesser known accused witch in the American colonies underscores the significance of understanding the past and its influence on our global present.
AP Article:Group seeks to clear names of all accused, convicted or executed for witchcraft in MA"
Sign the Petition: MA Witch Hunt Justice Project
www.massachusettswitchtrials.org
Pownal Historical Society on Facebook
Bennington Museum Special Exhibits
Saving Africa's Witch Children Documentary
Why Witch Hunts are not just a Dark Chapter from the Past, Documentary
Support Us! Shop Our Book Shop
Support Us! Sign up as a Super Listener!
Support Us! Buy Witch Trial Merch!
Support Us! Buy Podcast Merch!
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03/06/24 • 56 min
In this poignant episode of "Witch Hunt" we're honored to welcome Dr. Samantha Spence back. Merging the commemorative spirits of International Women's Day and Women’s History Month into a deep dive on the entwined paths of witch-hunting and women's struggles worldwide, Dr. Spence brings to light the multifaceted adversities that ensnare women accused of witchcraft - from social ostracization to economic hardships, legal injustices, and educational blockades. These barriers not only underscore their marginalization but also underscore the urgency of a collective global response. Through our discussion, Dr. Spence underscores the pivotal role of international collaboration, enhanced data gathering, and rigorous research in crafting both national and global strategies to counteract these injustices comprehensively. A staunch advocate for gender equality, she points out the transformative power of education for all genders and the undeniable influence of female leadership in dispelling harmful myths, challenging age-old stereotypes, and uplifting communities. Furthermore, Dr. Spence passionately argues for the critical necessity of healthcare access, with a particular emphasis on sexual and reproductive health services, as a cornerstone in safeguarding women's rights and well-being. Join us as we explore these essential themes with Dr. Spence, gaining insights into how solidarity, knowledge, and action can illuminate the darkest corners of witch hunts and pave the way for a just, equitable future that inspires inclusion.
The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices
Pan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks
Why Witch Hunts are not just a Dark Chapter from the Past
Storymap explaining the dynamics of sorcery accusation related violence
Petition to recognize those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts

02/12/25 • 51 min
Witchcraft and sorcery accusations continue to plague our world in the 21st century. Join us as we explore the complex issue of sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) in Papua New Guinea through the lens of Anton Lutz, a human rights defender working directly with affected communities. Drawing from his extensive experience living in PNG and developing educational initiatives, Lutz provides insight into how these accusations unfold within a nation of over 800 distinct cultural groups. The discussion examines the recent intensification of violence, its impact on communities, and the cultural and religious factors that contribute to these situations. Lutz shares his perspective on current intervention strategies and the ongoing work to protect vulnerable individuals while respecting PNG's rich cultural heritage.
Donate to the Connecticut Witch Trial Victims Memorial Fund
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FAQ
How many episodes does Witch Hunt have?
Witch Hunt currently has 189 episodes available.
What topics does Witch Hunt cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture and Podcasts.
What is the most popular episode on Witch Hunt?
The episode title 'Thou Shalt Not Suffer: The Witch Trial Podcast' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Witch Hunt?
The average episode length on Witch Hunt is 45 minutes.
How often are episodes of Witch Hunt released?
Episodes of Witch Hunt are typically released every 6 days, 5 hours.
When was the first episode of Witch Hunt?
The first episode of Witch Hunt was released on Sep 6, 2022.
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