

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

Jul 5, 2024 • 56min
Printing in England
Dr Lydia Zelndenrust and Robin Ince discuss early book printing in England. They delve into the history of the first English printed book, diverse text production, and the state's reaction to printing. The episode explores the origins of printing in East Asia, evolving technology, and the impact on society. Topics also include the evolution of bookmarks, banned books in England, and the power of reading throughout history.

15 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 28min
Emma of Normandy (Radio Edit)
Professor Elizabeth Tyler and comedian Jen Brister explore the life of Queen Emma of Normandy, her marriages to Aethelred and Cnut, and her political influence in early medieval England. They discuss the complexities of Norman, English, and Scandinavian identities, Emma's cunning political tactics, and the messy family relationships that shaped history.

12 snips
Jun 14, 2024 • 28min
The Inca Empire (Radio Edit)
Professor Bill Sillar and Sue Perkins join the podcast to delve into the rise and fall of the Inca Empire, discussing their rapid expansion, social structures, religious beliefs, agriculture, mummification practices, and the impact of Spanish conquest. The episode covers all aspects of Incan life, including food, art, architecture, and the significance of potatoes in their society.

Jun 7, 2024 • 28min
The Queen of Sheba (Radio Edit)
Dr Jillian Stinchcomb and comedian Sadia Azmat delve into the mysterious Queen of Sheba, discussing her portrayal as a powerful ruler, an exotic seductress, and even a potential half-demon. They explore her diverse representations across different cultures, uncovering the enigmatic tales and symbolic interpretations surrounding this legendary figure.

12 snips
May 31, 2024 • 29min
The History of Bollywood (Radio Edit)
Expert Professor Sunny Singh and broadcaster Poppy Jay discuss the rich history of Bollywood, from its origins in 1896 to its current global success. They cover the evolution of Indian cinema, the influence of Western forms, censorship, nationalism, iconic film stars, and the extensive reach and depth of Bollywood films, contrasting it with Hollywood.

May 24, 2024 • 28min
Simón Bolívar (Radio Edit)
Dr. Francisco Eissa-Barroso and Katie Green delve into the life of 19th-century revolutionary leader Simón Bolívar. They discuss his liberation of South American countries, controversial presidency for life, and views on elections. From his political philosophy to personal scandals and military victories, they shed light on the complex legacy of this influential figure.

May 17, 2024 • 28min
Madam C.J. Walker (Radio Edit)
Learn about the fascinating life of Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made woman millionaire in America. From her humble beginnings to founding her own booming haircare business, this episode delves into her journey to success, wealth, and philanthropy with insights from expert Professor Noliwe Rooks and comedian Athena Kugblenu.

11 snips
May 10, 2024 • 28min
Pythagoras (Radio Edit)
Professor Edith Hall and comedian Desiree Burch explore the myths and mysteries surrounding Pythagoras, from his mathematical theorem to his eccentric beliefs. Topics include his controversial life, metempsychosis, musical mathematics, and the origins of his famous theorem. The episode also touches on Pythagoras's strange practices and humorous reincarnation tales.

9 snips
May 3, 2024 • 28min
The Bloomsbury Group (Radio Edit)
Dr. Jane Goldman and comedian Suzi Ruffell join Greg Jenner to delve into the lives and impact of the Bloomsbury Group, highlighting their bohemian lifestyle, political work, artistic output, and boundary-pushing relationships. They explore the group's association with queer identities, EM Forster's personal life and writings, John Maynard Keynes' influence, the artistic contributions of Vanessa Bell, and the radical impact of the Bloomsbury Group on history.

4 snips
Apr 26, 2024 • 29min
The History of Kung Fu (Radio Edit)
Historian Dr Leon Rocha and comedian Phil Wang explore the origins of kung fu, from Shaolin monks to global popularity. They discuss the evolution of martial arts poses, violent conflicts, the cultural significance of kung fu in Chinese identity, and Bruce Lee's influence on cinema and Asian pride.