A Brief History: Bess of Hardwick

Episodes are always commercial-free to patrons!!She was called the "First Lady of the Renaissance," but Isabella d’Este was far more than a title. In this episode, we explore the life of a woman who turned art, fashion, and intellect into instruments of power. From her exquisite studiolo to her sharp political mind, Isabella curated not only a stunning collection of masterpieces—but a legacy. Discover how this duchess of Mantua shaped the cultural landscape of Italy and defied every expectation of what a Renaissance woman could be.Interested in the Katherine of Aragon course? Sign-up HERE!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched and Written by: Emily Airey

3 Aug 11min

Can you believe we’re already at episode 9 of the Parallel Lives series? This journey has been so eye-opening—I’ve learned more from Dr. Emma than I ever imagined, and I hope you have too.In today’s episode, we dive into the lives of two remarkable women whom Dr. Emma lovingly calls “besties”—and honestly, it fits. Elizabeth of York and Isabel of Castile shared more than just royal titles; they were truly connected in fascinating ways. Join us as we explore their stories side by side on this latest leg of our Parallel Lives adventure.--Have you grabbed your ticket yet for our upcoming course on Katherine of Aragon? With the early bird pricing you’ll save $30! But hurry—this special offer ends on August 6th, and you won’t want to miss it. Find out more HERE.Independent podcasters (like me) rely on listener support to keep the mic on and the stories flowing. If you love what I’m creating, I’d be so grateful if you’d consider becoming a supporter—it helps more than you know. LEARN MORE!--Credits:Hosts: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron and Rebecca Larson

31 Jul 1h 3min

What if the Anne Boleyn you think you know… never really existed? In this episode of Tudors Dynasty & Beyond, host Rebecca Larson sits down with special guest Helene Harrison to explore the many faces of Anne Boleyn—not through her own words, but through how she’s been seen, shaped, and sometimes skewed over the last five centuries. From Tudor propaganda to 20th-century film, we uncover how Anne's image has evolved from seductress to saint, from villain to victim.Find her book on Amazon!All of Helene's Books (Amazon)--Did you hear? Dr. Emma is teaching a 6-week online course all about Katherine of Aragon’s life before she became Queen of England! Early bird tickets are available until August 6th. The course begins September 17th, with pre-recorded 60-minute lectures and a live weekly group Zoom chat with Dr. Emma. Don’t miss out—LEARN MORE!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Helene Harrison

29 Jul 57min

Clara Schumann’s music shaped a century, but her story was nearly lost behind the men she championed. This episode restores her spotlight.--Forging a Queen: Katherine of Aragon Before England course - learn about her time BEFORE she became Queen of England.Want to support the show, get commercial-free access and discounts to courses? Head over to Patreon!!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

27 Jul 9min

This is also available in VIDEO format on #spotify and #youtube.In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we’re joined by Dr. Carole Levin to explore the fascinating relationship between two iconic sisters—Mary I and Elizabeth I—and the ways they were alike, and profoundly different.Carole's books --CHECK OUT the details on our new 6-week online course all about the life of Katherine of Aragon before she became queen of England: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/manage/events/1492435036369/detailsEarly bird pricing now available for a limited time!--Hosts: Dr. Emma & Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Carole Levin

24 Jul 1h 6min

In this episode, Dr. Peter Stiffell reveals the mystery behind an artifact once thought to belong to Mary I, only to be linked to another Mary. We explore royal iconography, Mary I’s image, and Dr. Stiffell’s research on royal portraits, along with his new website dedicated to this fascinating field. Tune in for a fascinating look at history through the lens of royal imagery!DrPeterStiffell.com--Enjoy the show? Show your support and join our growing Patreon community! CLICK HERE--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Peter Stiffell

22 Jul 51min

In this episode, Rebecca Larson uncovers the extraordinary life of Emma of Normandy—a woman who defied the limitations of her time to become Queen of England not once, but twice. From child bride to political powerbroker, Emma navigated Viking invasions, shifting allegiances, and royal rivalries with unwavering determination. As wife to both Æthelred the Unready and King Cnut, and mother to two future kings, her influence shaped the English monarchy during one of its most turbulent eras. Discover the woman behind the crown—and why her story deserves to be remembered.--Become a patron on Patreon to get commercial-free access, early access and so much more!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

20 Jul 10min

In this episode of Parallel Lives, we step into the glittering yet treacherous world of the Burgundian court to explore the intertwined lives of Margaret of York and her stepdaughter, Mary of Burgundy. One, an English princess turned political powerhouse; the other, a reluctant heiress caught between duty and danger. Together, their choices shaped the fate of a crumbling duchy and paved the way for the rise of the Habsburg dynasty.--Join our Patreon community! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosts:Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma

17 Jul 59min