The podcast episodes provide insights into various aspects of 19th century medicine, including the treatment of mental illness, the state of medical knowledge and practices, and the challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing and providing healthcare.
The episode on Richard Dadd discusses the limited understanding and treatment of mental illness during Dadd's time, as he was institutionalized for decades after murdering his father in a psychotic episode. The episode on Isabella Bird sheds light on the numerous ailments and ineffective medical treatments experienced by 19th century travelers. The episode on the assassinations of Presidents Lincoln and Garfield highlights the poor medical practices that contributed to Garfield's death from infection.
The episode on 'Doctress' Rebecca Crumpler provides a glimpse into the challenges and pioneering work of the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in the United States, whose medical practice, writings, and perspectives reflect the medical knowledge, treatments, and public health issues of the 19th century.