Witchcraft has a story in which flying never requires leaving the ground. Dr Joe Schwarcz connects that image with plant chemistry, opening a different route into the history behind the Halloween broomstick.

A plant associated with beauty also appears in accounts of witches' visions. The familiar flying figure takes on another meaning when the sensation and the physical event become separate questions. What could produce the experience that the story describes?

Even an ordinary loaf of rye bread enters the picture. Joe outlines a contamination theory proposed for Salem, where reported experiences became accusations with devastating consequences. From the broomstick to the cauldron, the question becomes what an apparent supernatural event might conceal about the materials involved.

Topics: witchcraft, broomstick folklore, belladonna, ergot theory, Salem witch trials

GUEST: Dr Joe Schwarcz

Originally aired on 2026-10-29

Witchcraft has a story in which flying never requires leaving the ground. Dr Joe Schwarcz connects that image with plant chemistry, opening a different route into the history behind the Halloween broomstick.
A plant associated with beauty also appears in accounts of witches' visions. The familiar flying figure takes on another meaning when the sensation and the physical event become separate questions. What could produce the experience that the story describes?
Even an ordinary loaf of rye bread enters the picture. Joe outlines a contamination theory proposed for Salem, where reported experiences became accusations with devastating consequences. From the broomstick to the cauldron, the question becomes what an apparent supernatural event might conceal about the materials involved.
Topics: witchcraft, broomstick folklore, belladonna, ergot theory, Salem witch trials
GUEST: Dr Joe Schwarcz
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-10-29

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.