
You're Dead to Me
The comedy podcast that takes history seriously. In each episode of You’re Dead to Me from BBC Radio 4, Greg Jenner is joined by a comedian and an expert historian to learn and laugh about the past.History isn’t just about dates and textbooks – it’s about extraordinary characters, amazing stories, and some very questionable fashion choices. How long did it take to build an Egyptian pyramid? What does the Bayeux Tapestry reveal about medieval life? Why did it take nearly half a millennium for Joan of Arc to become a saint? And was Catherine the Great really all that great? Whether you want to explore ancient landmarks like Stonehenge and Machu Picchu, dance through the history of Broadway and Bollywood, or find out how the Tudors rose to power, Greg and his guests promise to teach you something new that you won’t have heard in history lessons.Previous episodes of You’re Dead To Me have covered everything from royals to revolutionaries, actors to activists and divas to dictators. Take a stroll through the history of high-heeled shoes or get the scoop on the history of ice cream. Maybe you’d like to paint like the cave artists of the Palaeolithic era, work out like a Victorian bodybuilder, or fight like a Spartan? We’ve even hosted a special, live episode with the BBC Concert Orchestra to explore the dramatic life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.Whatever your historical interests, Greg and his guests make even the trickiest topics easy to follow. Join them for a history lesson that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening - with no homework required.
Latest episodes

12 snips
May 30, 2025 • 28min
Sojourner Truth (Radio Edit)
Join Dr. Michell Chresfield, an expert in African American history, and comedian Desiree Burch for a captivating exploration of Sojourner Truth. Discover how Truth rose from enslavement to become a formidable abolitionist and women's rights advocate. Learn about her powerful connections to iconic figures like Frederick Douglass and her historic 'Ain't I a Woman?' speech. The discussion also touches on her harrowing struggles with family and faith, revealing the resilience and complexity behind her legendary activism.

17 snips
May 23, 2025 • 28min
Catherine de’ Medici (Radio Edit)
Historian Estelle Paranque joins comedian Shaparak Khorsandi to discuss the fascinating life of Catherine de’ Medici, the powerful queen of France. Orphaned and raised by a pope, Catherine's tumultuous marriage and political maneuvers shaped French history. The chilling connection between her and Nostradamus reveals prophecies impacting her reign. They explore her misunderstood legacy amid the chaos of the French Wars of Religion, highlighting her sacrifices and influence on Europe through strategic marriages.

13 snips
May 16, 2025 • 28min
The Arts and Crafts Movement (Radio Edit)
In this engaging discussion, art historian Isabella Rosner, a curator at the Royal School of Needlework, joins comedian Cariad Lloyd. They delve into the Arts and Crafts movement, highlighting the visionary William Morris and his nature-inspired designs. The conversation reveals how this movement reacted to the Industrial Revolution, advocating for traditional crafts and accessible art. They also explore the gender dynamics within the movement and discuss the lasting impact of designs like Morris's 'Strawberry Thief.' Tune in for a fascinating blend of art history and humor!

52 snips
May 9, 2025 • 28min
Causes of the British Civil Wars (Radio Edit)
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Jonathan Healey, an Associate Professor in Social History at Oxford, shares his expertise on King Charles I and the chaotic roots of the British Civil Wars. He dives into the antagonistic relationship between the king and Parliament, revealing the socio-economic strains, religious conflicts, and disastrous wars that fueled tensions. The talk also highlights the surprising role of women in protests and the complexities surrounding the conflicts in Scotland. Prepare for a mix of history and humor!

28 snips
May 2, 2025 • 28min
Aristotle (Radio Edit)
In this lively discussion, Professor Edith Hall, a leading expert on ancient Greece, joins comedian Dan Schreiber to delve into the fascinating life of Aristotle. They explore his groundbreaking contributions across various fields, compare his practical philosophy to Plato's ideals, and uncover his deep love for nature, particularly through his studies of Lesbos' rich biodiversity. The trio confronts Aristotle's controversial views on ethics and the challenges of his legacy, making for an engaging exploration that highlights his profound impact on modern thought.

18 snips
Apr 25, 2025 • 29min
The Indus Civilisation (Radio Edit)
Danika Parikh is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Cambridge, specializing in the archaeology of the ancient Indus civilization. Comedian Ahir Shah brings his unique humor to the discussion. They dive into the fascinating world of this Bronze Age society, exploring its intricate sanitation systems, mysterious architecture, and even the enigmatic unicorn artifacts. The conversation raises questions about its societal structure and uncovers theories behind its decline, all while challenging misconceptions shaped by colonial narratives.

30 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 29min
Georgian Courtship (Radio Edit)
Join Dr. Sally Holloway, a historian specializing in Georgian gender and emotions, and comedian Cariad Lloyd, known for her award-winning work on grief, as they explore the intricacies of love in Georgian England. Discover the art of courtship, from love letters that sealed the deal to the delicate dance of parental involvement. They tackle gift-giving as flirtation and society’s influence on romance, even weaving in humor about modern dating apps inspired by historical norms. It's a delightful journey through 18th-century romantic pursuits!

26 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 56min
Marco Polo: history’s most famous travel writer?
Join distinguished literature professor Sharon Kinoshita, a Marco Polo translator, and comedian Ria Lina as they explore the adventurous life of history's most famous traveler. They delve into Marco Polo's epic 24-year journey to China, the wonders of the Mongol empire, and his extraordinary encounters, including the fascinating postal service and diamond-hunting eagles. Amid laughs, they also discuss his legacy, cultural exchanges, and the peculiarities of his later life, revealing how his stories influenced future explorers like Columbus.

22 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 57min
History of Coffee: from devil’s brew to our favourite beverage
Jonathan Morris, a research professor in history specializing in coffee, teams up with comedian Sophie Duker to unravel the rich tapestry of coffee's past. They explore its intriguing origins in Ethiopia and Yemen, debunk myths like the Pope's label of 'devil’s brew', and highlight its rise in 17th-century Europe with coffee houses as hubs of intellectual exchange. Fun anecdotes reveal coffee's role in the American Civil War and its evolution into a cultural icon. Prepare for a lively discussion filled with history, humor, and caffeinated insights!

4 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 59min
Arctic Exploration: the fatal quest for the Northwest Passage
Join Dr. Vanessa Heggie, an expert in the history of science and author of 'Higher and Colder', and comedian Stu Goldsmith as they unravel the perilous past of Arctic exploration. Discover the harrowing tales of explorers, including the infamous Sir John Franklin, who vanished with his crew in search of the elusive Northwest Passage. Fascinating anecdotes blend with discussions of indigenous knowledge and the modern implications of climate change, all interspersed with Goldsmith's comedic insights, making for an engaging dive into a frosty history filled with intrigue and tragedy.