The Eleanors: From Aquitaine to Castile

I’m joined by historian, presenter and author Matt Lewis to dig into the myths and misconceptions surrounding Richard III. From Shakespeare’s dramatic portrayal to the truth behind his possible marriage plans with Elizabeth of York, his relationship with his brothers Edward IV and George, Duke of Clarence, and the question of whether he was truly a tyrant—we cover it all. Join us as we separate history from legend and uncover the real man behind the crown.Fundraiser for A Taste of Loyalty: IndiegogoMatt's podcast: Gone MedievalMatt's books can be purchased everywhere, but here is a link to his Amazon US page-----We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, Spending the Holidays with Mary I!! --Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

28 Loka 52min

🔁 Encore Presentation: This fan-favorite episode originally aired in April 2025.It's come to my attention that I post so much content that some episodes get missed, so this is a way to make sure you see these great conversations!--Dr. Elizabeth Norton joins me today for a fascinating discussion on women in history. We begin with Emma of Normandy and journey through time to Anne of Denmark, exploring the remarkable lives of these influential women. Elizabeth’s depth of knowledge on the subject is truly impressive, and I can’t wait for you to watch and share your thoughts!--Website: ⁠http://www.elizabethnorton.co.uk/⁠⁠Books on Amazon US⁠--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Elizabeth Norton⁠

26 Loka 51min

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we explore Henry VIII’s fourth wife and the woman who famously refused him—on account of “a lack of heads.” Join us as we dive into their fascinating stories and wander through all sorts of historical tangents along the way!--Check out Rebecca's Substack - Rebecca Larson's History Corner at https://rebeccalarson.substack.com --Show Hosts: Rebecca Larson Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

23 Loka 49min

Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Lauren Johnson to the show for the very first time! Honestly, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to have her on—but I’m so glad it finally happened, because we dive deep into the remarkable life of Margaret Beaufort.Lauren’s new book, Margaret Beaufort: Widow, Rebel, Kingmaker, spans the entirety of Margaret’s extraordinary life—far too much to fit into a single episode! So in this conversation, we focus on her early years and end in the bedchamber with Elizabeth of York.Don’t worry, though—I’ll be bringing Lauren back to explore the next chapter of Margaret’s story: her years as Queen Mother and her influence on her grandson, Henry VIII.Her book is being published November 6th in UK, get a copy through Blackwells now! It won't be out in the US until March 2026!--Join me over on Substack, where I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes posts about my research process and much more!✨ Exciting news: Paid subscribers ($5/month on Substack or Patreon) will receive exclusive access to my upcoming Thomas Seymour biography.New book installments are released every Wednesday, and FREE posts every Monday, so don’t miss out on the journey!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Lauren Johnson

21 Loka 43min

🔁 Encore Presentation: This fan-favorite episode originally aired in April 2025.From humble beginnings in Ipswich to the heights of royal power, Thomas Wolsey’s story is one of extraordinary ambition. Rising from a butcher’s son to Cardinal and chief minister to Henry VIII, Wolsey ruled England with unmatched influence — until his spectacular fall from grace.In this episode, we explore how Wolsey built his empire, the political genius that made him indispensable to the king, and the mistakes that cost him everything.Find The Cardinal on ⁠Amazon⁠--Are you looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to my ⁠Patreon⁠!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Alison Weir

19 Loka 36min

In this episode of Parallel Lives, Rebecca Larson and Dr. Emma Cahill Marron explore two of Henry VIII’s most remarkable queens — Anne Boleyn and Kateryn Parr — women separated by time but united by intellect, conviction, and courage.Both shaped the English Reformation in deeply personal ways: Anne, through her daring advocacy of new religious ideas that forever changed the Church; and Kateryn, through her writings, diplomacy, and devotion that helped keep reform alive in Henry’s final years. Each challenged what it meant to be a queen — not through submission, but through scholarship, conscience, and faith.Join us as we uncover how these two women influenced England’s future — and how their legacies intertwined in the education and spirit of Elizabeth I.--Lady Mary PortraitKateryn Parr PortraitLink to Pendant Fundraiser--Time is running out to get Early Bird tickets for Dr. Emma's LIVE chat on October 25th! This event is all about Isabel I of Castile and her involvement in the Renaissance!--Credits:Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill MarronLinks:EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH!

16 Loka 1h 4min

Welcome back to The Queen’s Husband with historian Dr. Linda Porter.In this series, we uncover the lives of the powerful — and often complicated — men who married reigning queens.In this episode, we turn to Mary I of England and her husband, Philip II of Spain. Dr. Porter debunks some of the long-standing myths surrounding their marriage and delves into Philip’s life both before and after Mary — exploring how this political union shaped two monarchs, two nations, and the course of European history.Dr. Porter's Books: Amazon--Saturday, October 25th I am hosting a LIVE chat by Dr. Emma Cahill Marron called, Art & Culture: Why Isabel of Castile Created the Renaissance, and I'd love for you to join us! Find more information HERE - don't wait, Early Bird ticket pricing end on the 17th!This episode is sponsored by: Mrs. Bakewell's - Cream Tea Company! Be sure to use promo code 'Tudors' for a discount at checkout!--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Linda Porter

14 Loka 41min

Two powerful women — one a queen, the other a princess — both bound by beauty, intrigue, and political peril.In this episode of Parallel Lives, we explore the striking similarities between Mary, Queen of Scots, and Ana de Mendoza y de Silva, Princess of Éboli — two women whose lives unfolded under the watchful eyes of monarchs, courtiers, and enemies alike. Both were celebrated for their charisma and intelligence, yet their ambitions and entanglements placed them at the heart of scandal and suspicion.Join Dr. Emma and Rebecca as they uncover how Mary and Ana navigated power, faith, and betrayal in the tumultuous courts of 16th-century Europe — and how each became a symbol of fascination and tragedy in her own right.--Check out MrsBakewells.com and use promo code "Tudors" for 10% off your order!!--Want to join our upcoming Special Event with Dr. Emma on Isabel I of Castile? Click this link for details: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1770944485629?aff=oddtdtcreator--Credits:Host: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma

9 Loka 47min