Two remarkable women, two unforgettable reigns. In this episode, we explore the daring coups and visionary leadership of Elizabeth of Russia and Catherine the Great. From Elizabeth’s lavish masquerades to Catherine’s sweeping reforms, discover how these trailblazing empresses transformed Russia into a cultural and political powerhouse. Power, ambit…

Guess who's back! Dr. Emma joins me for a lively chat about House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones. But don’t worry—we dive into so much more, because you know we can never stick to just one topic when we’re together! -- Check out my NEW SHOP! Become a Patron! Get commercial-free episodes and more! -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Dr. Emma Cahill Ma…

This week we fearure singer Jen Larson and talk with her work as the manager of the archives at the Grand Ole Opry and her approach to teaching vocal lessons. She will be one of the vocal instructors at Bluegrass Unlimited’s workshop weekend in February 2025, which will be hosted by the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum.…

In this episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by the incredible Gemma Hollman to discuss her upcoming book, available on November 26th. Today’s topic is one you all love—medieval women. We dive into their societal roles, from peasants and nuns to noblewomen. It’s a captivating discussion you won’t want to miss! ORDER HERE: Women in the Middle Ages: Il…

In this episode, we explore the lives of two literary icons: Mary Shelley and Jane Austen. From Austen’s sharp social commentary and trailblazing novels to Shelley’s groundbreaking Frankenstein and life of triumph and tragedy, we uncover the stories behind their enduring legacies. Join us for a look at the women who reshaped literature forever. -- …

In this episode, I’m joined by Danie Burton to uncover the true story of Elizabeth Woodville’s eldest brother, Anthony Woodville. Far more complex and fascinating than his portrayals in historical fiction, we’re diving deep to reveal the real Anthony Woodville and the legacy he left behind. -- Danie's book on Anthony on Amazon Check out my new SHOP…

This week we feature multi-instrumentalist Tim May. Tim spent fifteen years performing with the band Crucial Smith and has also toured with Patty Loveless, John Cowan, Eddie Rabbit, Rodney Dillard, Kathy Mattea and many others. Tim is also a popular instructor at music workshops and camps and has produced a number of instructional books and videos.…

In today's episode, I'm thrilled to welcome back Sylvia Barbara Soberton as we dive into the medical mysteries of the Tudor era—from deadly poison plots and royal pregnancies to the ailments that plagued Henry VIII. -- Find Sylvia's BOOK HERE! Check out my NEW shop! Become a Patron -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton --- Support …

In this episode, we uncover the lives of two royal women, Catherine of York and Claude of France. Despite political turmoil and personal challenges, their resilience and loyalty left a lasting mark on European history. Join us to explore their stories. -- Check out the new SHOP! BECOME A PATRON! -- Narrator: Rebecca Larson Researched by: Emily Aire…

I have been looking into Greek Mythology more lately and was fascinated by the story of Helen of Troy. I hope I do the story justice, and I also hope that I did not massacre the pronunciation of their names too much - please forgive me if I did! Check out my shop: https://tudorsdynasty.com/shop Commercial-FREE: Patreon -- Narrated by: Rebecca Larso…

This week we feature fiddler Kenny Kosek. Kenny has played for many great bands over the years, including Country Cooking and Breakfast Special back in the early 1970s, and also has produced instructional books and videos that are popular amongst bluegrass fiddlers. He now has a new album out titled Twisted Sage. We’ll talk about the new album and …

Ever wondered what beauty looked like in the Medieval era? In this episode, we reveal the unexpected secrets behind achieving that flawless, pale complexion, why some beauty practices were worth risking your life, and which surprising trends made their way into Medieval society. Join us for a journey through pale faces, herbal concoctions, and the …

Marie Antoinette and Francis I of the Two Sicilies—two figures from the same extended royal family—led lives that were both interconnected and starkly different. While Marie's story is one of opulence, scandal, and revolution, Francis's tale is one of reform, resilience, and quiet leadership. --Check out the new SHOP! Commercial-free episodes HERE …

This episode has been a long time coming and I'm so excited that it is finally here! I wanted to do a Halloween episode but sometimes I think those get a bit too played out this time of year, so instead, Dr. Emma came back to chat poisoning with me!! Check out my new SHOP! Commercial-free episodes HERE -- Credits: Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Dr. Em…

This week we feature banjo player Gena Britt. We speak with Gena about her many years in bluegrass music. We talk about how she got started, the many bands that she has performed with over the years and her current job with Sister Sadie.By Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine

Today, Sophie Bacchus-Waterman joined me again to chat about historical documents and their efforts to make them available to everyone. But that's not it, we talk about so much more! Links mentioned: The exhibition we did on digitization: https://stjohnscollegelibraryoxford.org/2023/04/18/from-ink-to-pixels-digitizing-manuscripts-at-st-johns-colleg…

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the lives of two powerful women who shaped European history—Catherine of Valois, the mother of the Tudor dynasty, and Catherine de Medici, Queen of France and mother to three kings. These Catherines endured scandal, intrigue, and heartbreak, each fighting to protect their legacies in a world ruled by men. From …

This week we feature fiddler Steve Thomas and talk with him about his years playing bluegrass with legends such as Jim & Jesse, The Osborne Brothers and The Whites, plus his work with a number of country music stars. We will also talk about his current job with the new all-star bluegrass band Southern Legacy and his own band Steve Thomas & The Time…

Today, we revisit my conversation with Dr. James Taffe on the endlessly intriguing Jane Boleyn, Lady Rochford. After the execution of her husband, George Boleyn, and sister-in-law Anne in 1536, Jane skillfully navigated the dangerous waters of Tudor politics, securing a place in the households of each successive queen. But her involvement with Quee…

Today the lovely Andrea Zuvich joins me to discuss the topic of her new book, A Life of Barbara Villiers, Charles II's Most Infamous Mistress. Barbara Villiers was so much more than the mistress of Charles II, and I hope today you will give her another look, and check out Andrea's book! https://www.andreazuvich.com/ podcast: https://podcasters.spot…

In this episode I uncover the story of Renée of France, a princess who defied royal expectations and embraced the Protestant Reformation. Despite being married into the Catholic court of Ferrara, Renée became a protector of reformers like John Calvin and a supporter of the Huguenots during the French Wars of Religion. Discover how her courage and c…

This episode is a bit of a whirlwind, but in the best way! We recorded it last week on my birthday as a fun project with two close friends. I'll admit, we cover a wide range of topics, so if you enjoy hearing Emma and me chat, you're in for a treat! -- Please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon! -- Rebecca Larson Dr. Emma Cahill Marron --- S…

This week we feature singer, songwriter and guitar picker Rebecca Frazier and talk with her about her new album on Compass Records called Boarding Windows in Paradise. First we’ll talk with Rebecca about her bluegrass and flatpicking guitar journey and then we’ll talk about the recording and hear several cuts from the album.…

Matthew Lewis joins me once again to dive into his favorite topic—the Princes in the Tower. This enduring mystery never fails to captivate, but I have to admit, Matt may have finally convinced me! What do you think? -- Matt's Books -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matthew Lewis --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rebecca…

In this episode, we explore the life of Anne of Gloucester, granddaughter of King Edward III and a key figure in late medieval England. From her noble birth to her strategic marriages and the losses she endured, Anne’s life was shaped by the political turbulence of her time. Discover how this formidable heiress navigated power, tragedy, and surviva…

Today, I am joined by the lovely Bonnie Beadle of the Queen Katherine Parr Society to discuss the last wife of Henry VIII in life and in film. This fun, laid-back episode examines Parr's portrayals in The Tudors, Becoming Elizabeth, and Firebrand. -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Bonnie Beadle --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/…

This week we feature legendary Dobro player Jerry Douglas. Jerry not only was recently inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, but his band has a new album out titled The Set. We talk with Jerry about his career in bluegrass, the Hall of Fame induction and the new recording.By Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine

Today I am joined by Sophie Bacchus-Waterman to discuss Elizabeth Boleyn, the mother of Anne Boleyn. For centuries, she has loomed in the shadows of history and today I am pleased to shine a light on this amazing woman who was weaved into the story of the Tudors. Follow Sophie on Twitter/X Want to support the show and get commercial-free access? He…

In this episode, we explore the lives of two powerful Tudor women—Mary Tudor, Queen of France, and Margaret Douglas, the influential daughter of Margaret Tudor. Discover Mary’s dramatic marriage to King Louis XII and Margaret’s pivotal role in the Tudor-Stuart dynastic struggle. Learn how their decisions shaped the future of England and Scotland. -…