Historian Sarah Klegg, author of "Woman's Lore: 4,000 Years of Sirens, Serpents and Succubi," dives into the myth of Lilith, Adam's rebellious first wife. She reveals how Lilith's story reflects ancient anxieties about women and sexuality. Discussing her evolution from demoness to symbol of empowerment, Klegg highlights Lilith's defiance of patriarchal norms and her fascinating origins. The conversation also playfully explores the notorious semen-stealing lore and the cultural implications of her character in contemporary discussions on gender dynamics.

In a delightful chat with Dr. David Hone, an expert in dinosaur behavior and author, listeners dive into the wild world of dinosaur romance. They explore how T-Rex might have fared despite its tiny arms and the curious mechanics of mating among these massive creatures. Dr. Hone also sheds light on potential mating rituals, the significance of fossilized footprints, and the intriguing question of dinosaur monogamy. With humor and scientific insight, this conversation unearths the complexities of prehistoric procreation.

Owen Hodkinson, an Associate Professor of Greek and Roman Cultures at Leeds University, dives into the fascinating world of ancient erotic letters. He explores how the Romans exchanged intimate thoughts, comparing these to today’s sexting. Discover the emotional depth and societal norms behind these ancient communications, the intriguing parallels with Pompeii's graffiti, and Ovid's nuanced love letters. Hodkinson also addresses the lack of historical voices for women's same-sex desire, shedding light on Sappho’s legacy and the evolution of romantic expressions over time.

Tess Wingard, a medieval historian and author of "Unclean Beasts," joins to unravel the hidden stories of lesbian relationships in the medieval era. They discuss the surprising documentation of same-sex love, including a scandal involving a dildo in a court case. The conversation highlights the male-run church's fears over nuns' closeness and challenges historians face in uncovering these intimate histories. Wingard also touches on intriguing cases like Katharina Hetzeldorf, showcasing how courage and love defied the oppressive norms of their time.

Rachel Felder, a journalist and author of "Red Lipstick: An Ode to a Beauty Icon," dives into the captivating history of red lipstick. She reveals its powerful role in women's empowerment, especially during the suffragette movement and World War II. Felder discusses why Churchill protected lipstick from rationing and Hitler's disdain for it. Listeners learn about iconic figures like Cleopatra and Coco Chanel, the psychological impact of the color red, and tips for choosing the perfect shade, all celebrating red lipstick as a timeless symbol of confidence and rebellion.

Join Sarah Levin-Richardson, an expert in Roman social history and author of "The Brothel of Pompeii," as she uncovers the intriguing world of sex work in ancient Pompeii. Discover the only known purpose-built brothel and the rich graffiti and art that tell stories of its patrons and workers. Dive into the complexities of agency among sex workers and how sexuality was openly depicted through phallic imagery. This conversation reveals the societal norms and economic realities of one of history's most fascinating eras.

Eric Chaline, author of "The Temple of Perfection," dives into the intriguing history of gym culture, from the naked workouts of Ancient Greece to 19th-century bodybuilders. Discover how fitness spaces served as social institutions for men and reflected evolving ideals of masculinity. Chaline explores the journey of women in fitness and the modern inclusion of diverse bodies in gyms. He also discusses the impact of the world wars on body image and anticipates the future of fitness with trends like virtual reality workouts.

Join Professor Ruth Karras, an expert on medieval sexuality and author of 'Sexuality in Medieval Europe: Doing Unto Others,' as she unpacks the fascinating myths and realities of sex in the Middle Ages. Discover why people believed women were more sexual than men, the surprising aphrodisiacs of the time, and the misunderstandings surrounding STIs. Karras also explores the complex relationship between laundry work and lust, highlighting how independent women navigated societal norms in a male-dominated world.

Ruth Holliday, a culture and gender expert, and Vikram Devaraj, a cosmetic surgeon specializing in breast procedures, delve into the captivating history of breast augmentation. They discuss its cultural significance and the evolution of surgical techniques. Listeners will discover the motivations behind choosing surgery, insights into the risks and complications, and the societal pressures influencing beauty standards. The conversation blends medical history with humor, highlighting the journey of breast enhancement from early dangerous practices to modern advancements.

Hallie Lieberman, a writer and sex historian, dives into the captivating history of sex toys. She discusses the origins of ancient artifacts like a 30,000-year-old phallus and the early misconceptions surrounding vibrators. Did Victorian doctors really prescribe them for medical issues? Lieberman also traces the journey of vibrators from quirky medical devices to empowering symbols for women, exploring the impact of inclusivity and modern innovations in the sex toy industry. Get ready for a thrilling exploration of pleasure through the ages!