Thomas Wolsey: The Butcher’s Son Who Ruled England

🔁 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.

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Alison Weir