Podcast Summary: And That's Why We Drink - Episode E434 Title: A Haunted Pamphlet Collection and the Invention of Forensic Husbandry
Hosts: Christine Schiefer & Em Schulz
Release Date: June 1, 2025

I. Introduction

In Episode E434 of And That's Why We Drink, hosts Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz delve into the eerie intersection of historical folklore and modern true crime. This episode, aptly titled "A Haunted Pamphlet Collection and the Invention of Forensic Husbandry," explores a 17th-century pamphlet that intertwines themes of the paranormal with mysterious agricultural phenomena, setting the stage for a gripping true crime narrative.

II. The Mowing Devil: Unveiling Historical Folklore

A. Discovery and Description

Christine and Em introduce listeners to an enigmatic pamphlet from 1678 titled "Strange News out of Hertfordshire," which narrates the tale of the "Mowing Devil." This pamphlet, resembling a newspaper article of its time, features a woodcut illustration depicting a demonic figure wielding a scythe amidst flames and crops.

Em (27:48): "Here comes Hank with his toy. That's the news article. Breaking."

B. Analyzing the Story

The pamphlet recounts the tale of a disgruntled farmer who, after declining a mower's wage request, invokes the devil to harvest his crops. That very night, the farmer's fields inexplicably burn, only to be mowed to perfection by supernatural means. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale against greed and mistreatment of workers.

Em (31:41): "The devil shall mow it rather than you."

C. Modern Interpretations and Crop Circles

The hosts discuss how UFO enthusiasts in the 1980s linked the pamphlet to the phenomenon of crop circles, proposing it as the earliest evidence of such occurrences. However, Christine and Em critically examine this theory, suggesting that the original context points more towards a supernatural explanation rooted in the beliefs of the 17th century.

Em (47:39): "It's like me at that dog birthday party."

III. Forensic Husbandry: Bridging Folklore and Modern Forensics

The episode introduces the concept of "forensic husbandry," a fictional or perhaps metaphorical term coined by the hosts to describe the meticulous forensic techniques applied to the historical pamphlet. This blend of archaic storytelling and contemporary forensic analysis underscores the enduring fascination with unraveling historical mysteries through modern lenses.

Christine (52:12): "It's like, well, the fires were the clue."

IV. True Crime Spotlight: The Disappearance of Allison Jackson Foy and Angela Noble Rothen

A. Background on Allison Jackson Foy

Allison Jackson Foy, born Allison Mazaluski in March 1972, was a beloved dance instructor from Long Island, New York. Dedicated to her family, Allison's life took a tumultuous turn in 2005 when financial strains and marital conflicts led her to relocate her family to Wilmington, North Carolina.

Christine (64:00): "Allison drove to Lisa's with her youngest daughter, Jordan."

B. Sudden Disappearance

In July 2006, just four days into her new job as an assistant manager at a local Holiday Inn, Allison vanished after celebrating with her best friend, Chris Williams, at Junction Pub and Billiards. Despite initial assumptions of a voluntary departure, anomalies such as the lack of taxi records and her husband Mike's delayed report to the police raised suspicions.

Em (76:07): "That's a great point."

C. Investigation and Suspects

A private investigator, Mark Benson, uncovered that a man named Tim Ioannoni, previously convicted of violent crimes, was associated with the area where Allison disappeared. Despite strong suspicions linking Tim to the case, insufficient physical evidence prevented his indictment for Allison's and Angela's murders.

Christine (85:34): "The killer is still out there."

D. Discovery of Remains

In April 2008, human remains were found near the bar where Allison was last seen. The initial discovery included remains inconsistent with only Allison, leading to the identification of Angela Noble Rothen's remains as well. This grim finding intensified the investigation, pointing further towards Tim Ioannoni despite his denial and lack of direct evidence.

Em (93:29): "Wow."

E. Legal Outcomes and Continued Mystery

Although numerous women accused Tim of violent assaults, including at the murder sites, his only convictions stemmed from historical rape and kidnapping charges, resolved decades later due to forensic advancements. Allison's case remains unresolved, with her family clinging to hope for justice.

Christine (103:35): "I do. I just hope."

V. Reflections and Conclusions

Christine and Em conclude the episode by reflecting on the intersections of historical folklore and modern true crime investigations. They emphasize the importance of technological advancements in solving cold cases and express hope for the eventual resolution of Allison and Angela's mysteries. The episode underscores the enduring human quest to uncover the truth behind unexplained and tragic events, whether rooted in superstition or reality.

Em (104:00): "That's a good point."

Notable Quotes

• Em (31:41): "The devil shall mow it rather than you."
• Christine (85:34): "The killer is still out there."
• Em (47:39): "It's like me at that dog birthday party."
• Christine (52:12): "It's like, well, the fires were the clue."
• Em (93:29): "Wow."
• Christine (103:35): "I do. I just hope."

Final Thoughts

Episode E434 of And That's Why We Drink masterfully blends historical intrigue with contemporary true crime, offering listeners a deep dive into the mysteries that span centuries. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, Christine and Em illuminate the shadows where murder and the paranormal intertwine, all while sipping their favorite beverages. For enthusiasts of both ghost stories and true crime, this episode promises a chilling yet captivating experience.