Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

*This is a replay episode from July 2025 that was very popular with listeners/viewers, because Marguerite is a fascinating woman with an amazing portrait that we all recognize as her - immediately.In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of Marguerite d’Angoulême—Renaissance writer, queen, and sister to King François I of France. Discover how Marguerite’s bold literary works, like the Heptameron, challenged gender norms, and how her passion for religious reform placed her at the heart of early evangelical movements. We’ll trace her journey from the French court to the throne of Navarre, revealing a woman who shaped politics, faith, and the role of women in 16th-century Europe.--Head over to ⁠Patreon ⁠and consider becoming a patron! You'll get commercial-free episodes, early access and exclusive content! You can also join as a ⁠FREE ⁠member and gain access to the group chat.--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Emily Lalande

Welcome back to another episode of Historical Tinder with Dr. Emma & Me! As always, Dr. Emma picked this week’s topic—and I’ll admit, I wasn’t entirely sure where it was going to lead. But surprise, surprise: it turned into a conversation about far more people than just Henry and Anne. Because let’s be honest… when did any of Henry VIII’s marriages involve only two people?Stick around to catch a brand-new historical nickname we coined in the episode. If you hear it, drop it in the comments!--🔥 Don’t wait (LAST DAY!)—tickets are disappearing fast!As I mentioned in the episode, Dr. Estelle Paranque’s special talk on Saturday, December 6th is almost here, and you do not want to miss it.Join us for a deep dive into the world that shaped Anne Boleyn: Marguerite of Angoulême, Louise of Savoy, Claude of France—the brilliant, influential women who helped forge her time in France.🎟️ Grab your ticket now and secure your spot! https://anneboleyntravels.eventbrite.comAnd remember: if you can’t join live, every ticket holder gets the full recording within 24 hours.--Love the show and want to show your support? Maybe you want commercial-free content, early access, and exclusive content instead.... https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosted by: Rebecca Larson and Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Historian Matthew Lewis joins Rebecca to spotlight one of England’s most overlooked monarchs: Henry III. Often overshadowed by his infamous father and powerful son, Henry’s long reign was far more influential than history remembers.In this conversation, Matthew unpacks Henry III’s political struggles, his clash with the barons, his deep piety, and the ambitious building projects that transformed England—especially Westminster Abbey. It’s a fresh look at a king who shaped the medieval world in lasting ways.A perfect episode for anyone ready to rediscover a forgotten monarch.Matt's book on Henry III - Amazon--Looking for Commercial-Free episodes, exclusive content and much more? Become a Patreon patron today!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis--Time is running out to grab your ticket for Saturday's (December 6th) talk by Dr. Estelle Paranque on Anne Boleyn's time in France and the women who influenced her. Grab your ticket now!

Replay Episode — Originally Aired 7 January 2025This episode was one of our most-loved conversations of the year, and we’re excited to bring it back for anyone who missed it—or wants to experience it again.Gemma Hollman returns to the podcast for a captivating deep dive into the remarkable lives of medieval mystics and nuns. Together, we explore the spiritual, cultural, and intellectual impact of these extraordinary women who helped shape religious life throughout the Middle Ages.From intense visionary experiences to the layered realities of cloistered existence, this replay goes beyond the surface to illuminate their devotion, agency, and enduring influence. It’s a journey into a world where faith, power, and identity intertwined in surprising ways.Don’t miss this listener-favorite conversation!Gemma’s Book: Women in the Middle Ages—Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Gemma Hollman

Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S. and so we decided to take the week off from Dr. Emma & Me and share with you a popular episode from a past #ParallelLives episode on Margaret of York and Margaret of Burgundy.We will see you again next Thursday for our next installment of Dr. Emma & Me!--Love Anne Boleyn? Join Dr. Estelle Paranque for our next Special Event - we go LIVE December 6th. If you can't make the live talk it will be live for your viewing pleasure.https://anneboleyntravels.eventbrite.com--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

Join me for a fantastic conversation with Tracy Borman about her new book The Stolen Crown. We dive into the real story behind one of history’s boldest royal heists and the rivalries that shaped it. A must-listen for Tudor and Stuart fans!--Love Anne Boleyn? Join Dr. Estelle Paranque for our next Special Event - we go LIVE December 6th. If you can't make the live talk it will be live for your viewing pleasure.https://anneboleyntravels.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Prof. Dr. Tracy Borman, OBE

*This was an extremely popular episode from November 2024, with Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull (just before she got her PhD) that I wanted to share with you again.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 surprising lengths people went to for the perfect look—centuries before modern makeup!--Want a commercial-free episode? ⁠BECOME A PATRON⁠!⁠Check out my new SHOP!⁠--CREDITS:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull

This episode uncovers the story of a Tudor woman (Jane Boleyn) whose name has long been overshadowed by scandal—and the father (Henry Parker, Lord Morley) whose scholarly reputation has endured for centuries. Their lives offer a striking contrast between courtly peril and intellectual authority, revealing how family ties and public perception shaped survival in Henry VIII’s England. Who they were may surprise you.--Check out the latest SPECIAL EVENT where I'll be hosting the lovely Dr. Estelle Paranque to talk about Anne Boleyn's time abroad! https://anneboleyntravels.eventbrite.com--Hosts: Dr. Emma & Rebecca LarsonGuest. Dr. James Taffe

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Steven Veerapen to explore the reigns of James IV and James V of Scotland—two kings whose decisions, alliances, and rivalries kept the Tudor court on edge.We dig into James IV’s pivotal marriage to Margaret Tudor and James V’s marriage to Marie of Guise, and we unpack their often tense, competitive, and politically charged relationships with the English kings—from diplomatic brinkmanship to outright conflict.It’s a lively, insightful conversation about power, politics, and the Tudor–Stewart connections that shaped the 16th century.Steven's Books: https://www.stevenveerapen.com/books--IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT:Time is running out to get your discount to the seasonal course, Spending the Holidays with Mary I - taught by Dr. Peter Stiffell. Dr. Stiffell's PhD was on Mary I, and that makes him the perfect candidate to teach you all about life at court during her reign! Doors close on Tuesday, November 18th at 7pm CST/8pm EST. All ticket holders will receive an email Wednesday, November 19th at 7am CST/8am EST/1pm UK with the link and information for the first class. Hope to see you there!! TICKET INFORMATION--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Steven Veerapen

What if Henry VIII’s sister, Mary Rose Tudor, had married Emperor Charles V? In this playful but deeply historical “Historical Tinder” episode, Rebecca and Dr. Emma swipe right on dynastic possibility — exploring what this alternate union could have meant for England, Spain, and the entire Tudor dynasty. From shifting alliances and religious futures to Henry’s own ambitions and Anne Boleyn’s unlikely fate, we imagine how one royal match might have rewritten European history.--We announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠⁠⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠⁠⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - ⁠⁠Rebecca Larson's History Corner⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠Subtack⁠⁠--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

What if a single painting could change how we see Shakespeare?In this episode, I’m joined by filmmaker Madoc Roberts, and the star of the documentary, Steve Wadlow, whose remarkable discovery is the subject of the new PBS documentary Picturing Shakespeare — available beginning November 12. In their first podcast conversation with an American host, Steven and Madoc share the story behind the film, the meticulous research that followed the painting’s emergence, and how art, history, and curiosity collide when the world’s most famous playwright takes center stage.🎭 Watch Picturing Shakespeare on PBS, then join us here for a thoughtful conversation about discovery, authenticity, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s image.Check out their website and contact them with information here: https://www.isthiswilliamshakespeare.com/Watch until the end for some pictures provided by Madoc (filmaker).--Don't miss out on Spending the Holidays with Mary I - a 4 week online course led by Mary I expert, Dr. Peter Stiffell. Course begins November 19th, so get your ticket now!We are also have a FREE live chat with Sophie Bacchus-Waterman on November 15th - get your FREE ticket NOW!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuests: Steve Wadlow & Madoc Roberts

This one was so popular the first time that I've decided to send it out again in case you missed it, or want to watch it again! (From February 2025)Today, I’m joined by art historian Melanie V. Taylor to explore a fascinating theory—could a long-overlooked miniature actually depict the secret son of Elizabeth I? For centuries, historians have insisted she had no children, but Melanie's research might just challenge everything we thought we knew.Melanie's book: Truth of the Line We announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - ⁠Rebecca Larson's History Corner⁠ on ⁠Subtack⁠--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Melanie V. Taylor

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we’re joined by special guest Dr. Ellie Woodacre to explore the fascinating lives of two often-misunderstood medieval queens — Joan of Navarre and Isabeau of Bavaria. Both women ruled in times of crisis, navigated suspicion as foreign consorts, and faced accusations ranging from extravagance to witchcraft. Together, we examine how Joan and Isabeau balanced duty and survival within the volatile courts of England and France, how politics and rumor shaped their reputations, and why modern scholarship invites us to see them anew — not as villains, but as resilient figures of power and endurance.--We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill MarronGuest: Dr. Ellie Woodacre

Researching Elizabeth Boleyn is no easy task—but in this episode, we uncover how she navigated life at Tudor court: serving Katherine of Aragon, chaperoning Anne through the Great Matter, witnessing Wolsey’s fall, and standing at the edge of power during her daughter’s reign. We also compare her story to women like Jacquetta of Luxembourg and Elizabeth Woodville, revealing how influence moved quietly behind the throne.Get book now through Blackwells or pre-order (Americans) through AmazonWe just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sophie Bacchus-Waterman

In this episode of Parallel Lives, we explore two women separated by a century yet bound by the same unrelenting drive for dynastic survival—Margaret Beaufort and Mary, Queen of Scots. Both lived in turbulent times, navigating treacherous politics, faith, and motherhood within the confines of monarchy. One built a dynasty from the shadows; the other lost everything in pursuit of her crown. Join us as we compare their paths to power, their resilience amid betrayal, and the legacy each left on the English throne.---We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack---Hosts: Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

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

🔁 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

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

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

🔁 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