When you think about ancient gladiators, you likely have a certain vision that comes to mind: slaves forced to fight to the death for the entertainment of bloodthirsty Romans.
But much of what we think we know about gladiators is actually wrong.
Today on the show, Alexander Mariotti will separate the just-as-fascinating fact from popular-culture-derived fi ... Show More
Mar 24
The Mental Skills for Becoming an Everyday Genius
We tend to think of genius as something you’re born with — a rare trait possessed by the Einsteins and Teslas of the world. But what if many of the abilities we associate with genius — a great memory, quick problem-solving, mental math, creative insight — are actually trainable s ... Show More
49m 11s
Mar 17
The Hidden Power of Heat — How a Good Sweat Heals Your Body and Mind
Cold exposure has gotten a lot of attention the past few years, with people dunking themselves in ice baths for the sake of their health and well-being. But, good news here, exposing yourself to heat by sitting in the sauna or even a hot tub, might actually be even better for you ... Show More
47m 33s
Nov 2025
A day in the life of a gladiator
If we were to step back in time on to the blood-soaked sand of the Roman gladiatorial arena, what would we uncover about society, power and entertainment in the ancient civilisation? Speaking to Rachel Dinning, historian Harry Sidebottom guides us through 24 hours in the arena, r ... Show More
33m 31s
Aug 2024
Commodus: The Gladiator Emperor
<p>Known as one of Rome's worst emperors, Commodus is famed for both his infamy and bravado. Ascending the throne as a teenager, he dressed up as Hercules, fought as a gladiator in the Colosseum, and renamed Rome after himself. But who was the real Commodus? And was he really as ... Show More
54m 44s