Born in poverty at a time when the Roman Empire was in danger of cracking up and disintegrating, Helena was set for a life of obscurity as a stable hand, bar maid, and, according to some, a prostitute. Yet, in the most improbable tale she rose through the social hierarchy to be proclaimed Empress, then later canonised, and declared by some as queen of the wo ... Show More
Oct 29
408. JFK: Nixon, McCarthy, & The Dark Side of Camelot (Part 2)
After his brother’s death in the skies over Britain, a young JFK must fulfil his father’s dynastic dream, but does he want it? The whole family supports his campaign to become Senator, and a new character enters his life… Jacqueline Kennedy. Anita Anand is joined by historian Fre ... Show More
49m 44s
Oct 26
407. JFK: The Kennedy Curse Begins (Part 1)
John F. Kennedy, the youngest elected president of the United States, a man who charmed a nation. His tragic death in Dallas continues to inspire infinite conspiracy theories, but what made the man? Anita Anand is joined by historian Frederik Logevall to discuss JFK’s tumultuous ... Show More
52m 26s
Aug 2023
356: The Blood-Drinking Bride of Christ
A woman of immense influence on medieval Christendom, Catherine of Siena was one of the first female Doctors of the Church, who married Christ in her own bedroom. Living through a time of great anxiety due to the onset of the Black Death, she healed the sick, convinced the Pope t ... Show More
51m 39s
Jun 2024
457. Helen of Troy: Queen of the Greek Myths (Part 1)
The story of Helen of Troy, her remarkable birth and her infamous love affair with Paris, the Trojan prince, resounds across the centuries. A figure of condemnation, pity and tragedy, her beauty set in motion the most legendary literary conflict of all time: the Trojan Wars. Yet, ... Show More
52m 7s
Sep 2025
The Real Eleanor of Aquitaine
Eleanor of Aquitaine was a queen who defied expectations, a duchess who outmanoeuvred kings, and a mother whose dynasty shaped the future of Europe. She is often remembered through myth, gossip, and legend—but the truth is far more fascinating. Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Pro ... Show More
1 h
Sep 2024
Irene of Athens, Byzantine Empress
Queens of the World Series: Irene of Athens ruled as regent for her son, Easter Roman Emperor, Constantine VI. But when he rose up against her and threatened her religious conviction, she had his eyes gouged out. Thus she became the first Roman Empress to rule in her own right. B ... Show More
23m 21s
Nov 2024
St. Catherine of Alexandria
<p>Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century Christian martyr, was known for her intelligence, beauty, and steadfast faith. She boldly debated Emperor Maxentius and his scholars, converting many before being imprisoned and martyred for refusing to renounce Christianity. Venera ... Show More
16m 24s