Pop culture has painted Grigori Rasputin as a power-mad mystic who rose from the dead and destroyed the Russian dynasty. But the truth about Rasputin is a lot more complex. In this two-part series, we follow the story of a peasant who dreams of rising to the top of society and a Russian Tsarina desperate for a miracle. But the higher Rasputin climbs, the mor ... Show More
Aug 2025
Table Manners and Tudor Scandals | 94
<p>Just like us, royals are not immune to cringe-worthy moments. Caroline of Brunswick nearly flashed the crowd at her own wedding — while her groom got plastered across the church. Classy! To avoid pulling a royal faux pas, Brooke and Aricia are joined by Bonnie Tsai, founder of ... Show More
39m 8s
Aug 2025
The OG Tupac Part 1: Rebel Without a Pause | 92
<p>As an 18th century rich kid in Spanish-controlled Peru, Tupac Amaru II has it made. He’s descended from Incan royalty, the money and perks are flowing, and he’s set to inherit a powerful position working for the colonizers. But when he realizes that his privilege is built on t ... Show More
40m 32s
Feb 2023
Episode 283 - Rasputin: Russia’s Greatest Love Machine
The much-told legend of Rasputin – the giant, wild-eyed, well-hung, wandering Siberian monk who seduced the Tsarina herself – is mostly a bunch of absolute borscht. But the real story is just as wild. H&S look at the life of a peasant who infiltrated Russian nobility, embodying t ... Show More
1h 14m
Oct 2023
92. Killing Rasputin
Born in Siberia to a peasant family, Rasputin was an incredibly charismatic, physically striking, and politically savvy figure. He was a holy man, a mystic, who found his way to the centre of Imperial Russian power. Once he met Nicholas and Alexandra, he gained a central place in ... Show More
47m 30s
Feb 2024
What's the Real Story Behind Rasputin?
Uncover the mystique surrounding Grigori Rasputin in this captivating podcast episode! From his humble Siberian beginnings to the Russian court, we delve into his life, death, and the enduring myths. Sponsor: everyplate.com/podcast and enter code 49decoding to get a meal starting ... Show More
56m 31s
Apr 2019
Bill Browder: Putin’s Public Enemy No. 1
Bill Browder is a whistleblower against the most powerful and richest thug on the planet: Russian President Vladimir Putin. In response, the Kremlin has expelled and convicted him twice in absentia on trumped-up charges. Browder, a financier who made a fortune in Russia, talks wi ... Show More
38m 18s