You're Dead to Me

Join Professor Sharon Kinoshita, a distinguished expert on intercultural relations, as she takes us on a journey through 13th-century Venice and the fascinating life of Marco Polo. Discover how a teenage Polo ventured to the court of the Mongol emperor Qubilai Khan and the extraordinary things he encountered, like the Mongol postal service and diamond-hunting eagles. The discussion hilariously intertwines Polo’s narratives with modern-day insights into cultural exchange, showcasing his lasting impact on travel and trade.

In this engaging discussion, historian Jonathan Morris shares insights on coffee's intriguing past. He explains its origins in medieval Ethiopia and its evolution through coffeehouses in Europe. The conversation delves into coffee's surprising roles in American culture, particularly during the Civil War. They also tackle popular myths, like whether the Pope labeled it 'the devil’s brew' and the story of the Ethiopian goatherd. Morris highlights coffee’s dual nature as a social drink and a medicinal item, weaving humor into its complex history.

Join Professor Frank Cogliano, a leading scholar in American history, and comedian Patton Oswalt as they dive into the dramatic events of the American War of Independence. They humorously explore misconceptions about the colonists' journey toward freedom, from taxation battles to the Boston Tea Party. Discover the unifying force of the Continental Congress and the quirky side of George Washington, along with the harsh realities of whose freedoms were truly embraced. Expect laughter mixed with fascinating insights into a pivotal moment in history.

Get ready for a thrilling historical journey! The host celebrates the return of the new series, diving into fascinating topics. Explore the complexities of the American War of Independence and discover Jane Austen’s enduring influence. Plus, uncover the intriguing story of Empress Matilda’s reign. It’s a perfect mix of entertainment and enlightenment!

Join Vanessa Heggie, a science columnist and author of 'Higher and Colder', alongside comedian Stu Goldsmith as they dive into the thrilling yet perilous history of Arctic exploration. They discuss the infamous search for the Northwest Passage, including the tragic Franklin expedition and its mysterious fate. Expect tales of explorers getting lost, the comical challenges of packing tinned food, and even the darker topics of survival and cannibalism. Their witty banter makes complex history relatable and engaging!

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Moudhy Al-Rashid, an Assyriologist from Oxford, and comedian Phil Wang dive into the fascinating world of cuneiform, the oldest writing system. They explore how this ancient script reveals daily life in Mesopotamia, including everything from beer sales to marital disputes. Insights into the Epic of Gilgamesh and the deciphering journey of cuneiform are shared, along with humorous anecdotes about early written correspondence. The resilience of women like Laa Tubashini is highlighted, connecting past struggles to present-day issues.

Join historian Amy Fuller, a Senior Lecturer in the History of the Americas, as she delves into the dramatic lives of Hernán Cortés and his translator Malintzin. They discuss how Cortés’s ambition fueled the brutal conquest of the Aztec Empire and how Malintzin, a skilled linguist, played a pivotal role in his success. The conversation reveals her complexities and explores themes of colonialism and indigenous agency. Listeners discover the intertwined fates of these historical figures and the significant yet often overlooked narratives they represent.

Dr. Mary Bateman, a medieval literature expert from the University of Bristol, joins comedian Mike Wozniak to unravel the legendary tales of King Arthur. They explore Arthur's true origins as a military leader in post-Roman Britain and how various adaptations introduced iconic elements like the Round Table and the Holy Grail. The duo delves into historical sources, the roles of female authors, and the whimsical quirks of Arthurian characters. The discussion is lightened with humor as they recall cinematic portrayals and share a laugh about wild boars.

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.

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.