On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill unveil a gripping tale of murder and justice gone tragically astray.* The story unfolds in rural Madison County, Alabama, on a spring morning in 1897, when the patriarch of the Kelly family was struck by a sudden and violent illness. Shock turned to horror as other family members and household staff began to fall ill under similarly mysterious circumstances. Was it poisoning? Who was behind it, and why? This twist-filled saga leads to an unexpected, heartbreaking conclusion that will leave you questioning whether justice was truly served.

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*This story contains discussions of violence and murder which may be distressing for sensitive audiences. We advise listener discretion.

On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill unravel the story of a pivotal figure in one of the most infamous outlaw gangs in American history. In 1881, near Huntsville, Alabama, three masked horsemen orchestrated a daring robbery and vanished without a trace. Soon, it was revealed that the notorious James gang was behind the crime. Led by the infamous Jesse James and his brother Frank, the gang was synonymous with violence and lawlessness. Yet, the brothers couldn’t have been more different. Though both shared responsibility for the heist, only Frank would face trial—and his ultimate fate might just surprise you. Tune in now to hear the full story.

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On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill delve into the fascinating life of Tallulah Bankhead (1902–1968), the legendary stage and screen actress from the golden age of entertainment.* Whether shining on Broadway, captivating audiences on London stages, or making waves in Hollywood, Tallulah's larger-than-life persona always set her apart. Yet, her personal life often eclipsed her professional achievements. Known for her dramatic flair and appetite for attention, she embraced extremes to remain in the spotlight. Even now, it seems that Tallulah Bankhead refuses to fade from center stage!!

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*This story contains discussions of a sexual nature which may be inappropriate for sensitive audiences. Listener discretion is advised.

On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill uncover the inspiring yet tragic story of Bill Moore, a white man with an unshakable commitment to civil rights.* Driven by his belief in equality, Bill embarked on bold solo marches to expose the injustices faced by black Americans. His third march, in April 1963 from Chattanooga, TN, to Jackson, MS, took a devastating turn when, just outside Gadsden, AL, Bill was tragically shot and killed. What unfolds next, however, is a story that may surprise you.

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*This story contains discussions of violence and murder which may be distressing for sensitive audiences. We advise listener discretion.

On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill explore the chilling story of a man condemned to death under dubious circumstances in the deep South of 1889.* The post-Reconstruction era brought significant challenges for people of color across the United States, including in communities like Etowah County, Alabama. Black residents endured constant threats of violence and intimidation, often with little to no protection from a biased legal system. At the center of this story is Charlie Johnson, the first Black man to be legally hanged in Etowah County. Convicted of murder, his case reveals a web of unsettling truths. Join us as we unravel Johnson's story—a narrative filled with revelations that will challenge everything you thought you knew.

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*This story contains discussions of violence and murder which may be distressing for sensitive audiences. We advise listener discretion.

On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill honor the life and legacy of their Grandfather Stanley—a man who quietly stood tall among the strong women in his family. As the husband of their beloved Grandma Irena and father to their mom Stella and her three sisters, Grandpa Stanley often stayed in the background. But recently, his spirit has been making itself known, nudging Jen and Jill to uncover his untold story. Through heartfelt family interviews and deep dives into their ancestry, they’ve uncovered surprising, never-before-shared details about his life. Now, Grandpa Stanley is finally stepping into the spotlight, and we think he’s loving it. (We love you, Grandpa! XOXO)

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On this episode of Common Mystics, Jen and Jill uncover a surprising twist as a new voice emerges to share his perspective on the Trail of Tears. While creating Episode 124, which focused on Cherokee Chief John Ross, we had no idea about the deep rift between him and his younger brother, Andrew. Now, Andrew's voice comes through with anger and a strikingly different account of the events leading up to the Trail of Tears. He sheds light on what he perceives as his brother's role in the devastating loss of life.

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On this episode of Common Mystics, we continue our discussion of Chattanooga, Tennessee. After the Civil War, many families were left shattered with poverty, disease, and hardship forcing countless children into desperate situations. Orphanages emerged, yet support remained tragically scarce for children of color or those living with disabilities or illness. That’s where Almira Steele’s story begins. A fearless advocate with a heart full of compassion, she dedicated her life to giving ALL needy children in Chattanooga a chance—providing shelter, education, and hope when no one else would. Her remarkable courage and unwavering love built a legacy that still resonates today. Don’t miss this powerful story of resilience and inspiration. Tune in now!

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