You're Dead to Me
BBC Radio 4
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
102 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 58min
American War of Independence: Fourth of July Special
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.
24 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 29min
Arctic Exploration (Radio Edit)
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!
27 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 28min
Cuneiform (Radio Edit)
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.
12 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 29min
Hernán Cortés and Malintzin (Radio Edit)
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.
24 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 28min
Legends of King Arthur (Radio Edit)
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.
25 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.
20 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.
24 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!
66 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!
42 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.
