Welcome to today's episode of the Good Italian Girl and Friends podcast! We're excited to introduce you to Maria, a first-generation Australian-Italian from Adelaide. Maria is the creative force behind The Barefoot Woman, a unique side hustle inspired by her love for going barefoot at home to feel grounded.

But that's not all Maria does. She offers a fascinating array of services including Malocchio removal, Tarot card readings, business and house energy cleanses, and Astrology. What intrigued me the most is how this modern, young woman has inherited the ancient art of Malocchio removal from her Italian-born Nonna and mother. Naturally, I had to experience her services myself and bring her on the podcast for an engaging interview.

The belief in the evil eye, or "malocchio," is a captivating aspect of Italian folklore and tradition. Its origins date back to ancient times, yet it remains a vibrant part of contemporary Italian culture. According to folklore, certain individuals can cast a harmful gaze out of envy or jealousy, causing misfortune, illness, or other bad luck. To ward off the evil eye, various talismans, amulets, and rituals have been used through the ages.

One traditional method involves mixing oil and water to detect the presence of the evil eye or a curse. This practice is rooted in the belief that the evil eye disrupts the natural harmony and balance in a person's life, leading to negative consequences.

For more information about Maria's unique services, you can reach her on Instagram @thebarefootwoman. Tune in to our podcast and join us for an enlightening and fun conversation with Maria!