

Legacy
Wondery
From Wondery and Goalhanger Podcasts, Afua Hirsch and Peter Frankopan tell the wild stories of some of the most extraordinary men and women ever to have lived – and ask whether they have the rep they deserve. Should Nina Simone’s role in the civil rights movement be more celebrated than it is? When you find out what Picasso got up to in his studio, can you still admire his art? Was Napoleon a hero or a tyrant - or both? (And, while we’re at it, was he even short?) Legacy is the show that looks at big lives from the perspective of now – and doesn’t always like what it sees.
Episodes
Mentioned books

32 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 47min
Freud | Battle of The Egos | 3
In this fascinating discussion, Brett Carr, a psychoanalyst and esteemed Freud scholar, navigates the turbulent relationship between Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung. Carr highlights the ideological rifts that became apparent during Freud's rise to fame and examines the controversial cases that shaped psychoanalysis. The conversation also delves into the psychological impacts of World War I on Freud, particularly his evolving theories and personal struggles, all while the ominous shadow of the Nazis loomed over Vienna.

26 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 46min
Freud | A Meeting Of Minds | 2
Brett Karp, Honorary Director of Research at the Freud Museum and a notable Freud scholar, dives deep into Sigmund Freud's revolutionary yet controversial impact on psychology. They discuss the struggles Freud faced in gaining recognition, particularly the backlash to his theories on sexuality. Karp explores the tensions between Freud and Carl Jung, highlighting their complex relationship filled with collaboration and rivalry. Insights into Freud's personal life, including his family's influence and his initial dismissals, paint a vivid picture of his legacy.

46 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 49min
Freud | Mommy's Boy | 1
Dive into the complexities of Sigmund Freud’s theories, from the Oedipus complex to the ego and id. Discover how his childhood shaped his groundbreaking views on the subconscious and human behavior. Explore Freud's tumultuous personal life, including his struggles with cocaine and financial woes. Hear about his empathetic patient treatment and the ethical dilemmas he faced. Finally, witness his bold approach to discussing sexuality, transforming the dialogue in medical literature.

8 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 45min
John Lennon | Imagine | 4
Explore John Lennon's transformative sailing trip during a chaotic North Atlantic storm, leading to a powerful self-discovery. Delve into the significance of numerology as it intertwines with his creative revival and personal life. Reflect on his poignant final moments, unveiling the complexities of his relationships and career. Discuss the lasting cultural impact of The Beatles, and contemplate Lennon's enduring legacy through modern AI-generated music. A compelling journey of art, chaos, and the quest for meaning.

Mar 19, 2025 • 51min
John Lennon | All You Need is Love | 3
Lennon meets the woman who will change his life: Yoko Ono. Together they ask the world to Give Peace A Chance... but Lennon's band is feeling anything but peaceful...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 12, 2025 • 53min
John Lennon | Love Me Do | 2
John Lennon and The Beatles rise from obscurity to success with dizzying speed. Hysterical headlines diagnose "Beatlemania" as screaming fans mob the Fab Four. And the Beatles become synonymous with the drug-fuelled experimentation of the swinging sixties. But amid all the screaming, is Lennon losing his creative touch?If you need help, you can find advice and someone to talk to by visiting https://www.talktofrank.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 5, 2025 • 51min
John Lennon | The Boy Everyone Wanted | 1
A tug of love sees the young John Lennon pulled between his mother, father and aunt Mimi in a disrupted childhood. But that experience of conflict finds a creative outlet when he meets a cool kid with a guitar called Paul McCartney.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

14 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 42min
Genghis Khan | The Final Campaign | 4
Discover the turmoil after Genghis Khan's death as his empire charges into Europe. Tensions rise with a focus on his son Ogde's reign and the dark rituals of his enthronement. Witness the chaotic Mongol invasions that instilled fear across Hungary and reshaped Europe's landscape. Explore the dichotomy of Genghis Khan’s legacy—both destructive and transformative—as the world reassesses the cultural contributions of the Mongols. This tale unravels the complex narratives that define one of history's most influential figures.

18 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 42min
Genghis Khan | Sackings and Slaughter | 3
Genghis Khan's relentless expansion into the Khwarezmian Empire sets the stage for an epic tale of conquest. The brutal siege of Bukhara showcases his violent military tactics, with staggering casualties. Clever deception during the siege of Samarkand turns the tide in his favor, leading to further destruction. The aftermath highlights the rise of new leaders amidst devastation, while the Mongol invasions instill lasting fear across Europe. This narrative delves into the complexities of Genghis Khan's legacy, governance, and the intricacies of Mongol society.

22 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 46min
Genghis Khan | The Unstoppable Khan | 2
Discover the rise of Genghis Khan as he unites the Mongolian tribes under his powerful rule. Explore his innovative military strategies that led to decisive victories over former allies. The podcast dives into significant battles, the establishment of a legal code, and the unique governance that fostered loyalty among his warriors. Learn about the Mongols' exceptional cavalry tactics and their ability to adapt, setting the stage for transformative conquests and global trade expansion. Unravel the complexities of Khan's leadership in shaping history.