Each episode of “You’re Dead to Me” tackles a different historical subject, from infamous figures like Blackbeard and Lord Byron to broader topics like the history of drag or Victorian Christmas traditions, all presented with equal parts scholarly insight and irreverent humor.
Unlike other history podcasts that either put you to sleep or play fast and loose with facts, “You’re Dead to Me” manages to be thoroughly educational while ensuring you’re too busy laughing to realize how much you’re learning.
For those looking to dip their toes into this delightful historical waters, here are the absolute top episodes that represent the show at its finest, the ones that will have you simultaneously fascinated by our collective past and wondering why history class couldn’t have been this entertaining.
LGBTQ History
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Explore the authentic narratives and hidden chronicles that compose the LGBT community’s past – from Molly Houses to confidential journals. Join Greg Jenner alongside comedian Suzie Ruffell and Dr Justin Bengry, a historian who pioneered the world’s first masters program in Queer History. This program presents historical content in a fresh, engaging manner that appeals even to those who typically avoid the subject!
Stonehenge
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Greg Jenner explores the fascinating enigma and ancient past of Stonehenge. Was this monument truly the fertility emblem and ritualistic execution site that popular culture suggests? And which portion of Stonehenge actually constitutes the “henge” element? Joining the discussion are acclaimed podcaster Richard Herring and Susan Greaney, an archaeologist representing English Heritage. This show presents historical content in a refreshingly accessible way – perfect for those who typically avoid traditional history!
Genghis Khan
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Greg Jenner welcomes Professor Peter Frankopan and comedian Phil Wang on a journey back to the 12th century to encounter Genghis Khan, one of history’s most intimidating military leaders. They explore surprising facts about the Mongol ruler – including how silk garments served practical purposes beyond mere style, and the alleged tactical deployment of kittens as instruments of warfare during Genghis Khan’s creation of what would become the most extensive contiguous land empire the world has ever known.
Blackbeard
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This episode explores the notorious seafarer Blackbeard’s exploits. What prompted Blackbeard to surround and isolate a modest settlement while irritably scratching himself? Is there such thing as an excessive number of spouses? And what substances did he actually incorporate into his famous facial hair? Accompanying Greg are Dr Rebecca Simon, a historian specializing in piracy, and comedian Stu Goldsmith, who hosts the Comedian’s Comedian podcast.
The Witch Craze
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Uncover the reality underlying the European Witch Craze. Unlike the fictional universe of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, learn how a single publication transformed society as resentful male authorities executed countless blameless women. Accompany Greg Jenner, comedian Cariad Lloyd and historian Professor Suzannah Lipscomb on this exploration. This program presents historical content in a way that engages even those who typically avoid the subject!
Aristotle: Ancient Greece’s greatest philosopher?
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Greg Jenner explores Aristotle with Professor Edith Hall and comedian Dan Schreiber. This influential philosopher from Stagira studied under Plato, tutored Alexander the Great, and established the Lyceum, before dying in exile. Despite controversial views, his writings on everything from arts to zoology revolutionized Western thought.
Ivan The Terrible
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This episode examines Russia’s notorious first Tsar, Ivan the Terrible – truly deserving his fearsome title despite some translation nuances. They explore his turbulent childhood, initial achievements, numerous marriages, tyrannical oprichnina policies, and legendary brutality. Joining Greg are Oxford’s Professor Peter Frankopan and Russian-born comedian Olga Koch, known for her work on BBC shows including QI and The Now Show.
The Terracotta Army
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Venturing to Ancient China and accompanied by Professor Julia Lovell and featured guest Phil Wang, Greg Jenner examines The Terracotta Army in greater detail. A farming family made what many consider the most significant archaeological find in history when they unearthed terracotta fragments and arrowheads while constructing a well in 1974. Follow along as we investigate one of the world’s most remarkable burial complexes – a site so vast that substantial portions remain unexplored to this day.
Agatha Christie
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Sue Perkins and Dr Lucy Worsley accompany Greg Jenner to explore renowned mystery writer Agatha Christie’s remarkable life. The preeminent crime novelist’s influence extends beyond books into cinema, stage, and television throughout the last hundred years. Christie witnessed tremendous historical change, living from the Victorian era’s conclusion through both World Wars until her death at 85 in 1976.
The History of Football
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Where did football originate, China or somewhere closer to home? Why was knife crime once a major issue in the sport? And what’s the real story behind women’s football? Public historian Greg Jenner, comedian Tom Parry, and historian Professor Jean Williams tackle the true history of the beautiful game, perfect for those who think they don’t like history!
The History of Kung Fu
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Greg Jenner is joined by Dr. Leon Rocha and comedian Phil Wang to uncover the unexpected history of kung fu, from its ancient Chinese origins to its worldwide influence. Once a practice for longevity, it evolved in the Shaolin temple before spreading across China. But how did Buddhist monks create a martial art that would captivate the world? From medieval mountain temples to Hollywood blockbusters, plus pirates and legendary warrior nuns. This episode dives into the fascinating journey of Chinese martial arts.
Grainne O’Malley
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Joined by historian Dr. Gillian Kenny and comedian Catherine Bohart, Jenner explores the life of 16th-century Irish pirate queen Grainne O’Malley. As English rule tightened its grip on Ireland, Grainne had to make bold choices to protect her family, from altering her appearance as a teen to secure a spot on her father’s ship to launching an attack on a castle that denied her food. Fearless and determined, her defiance even led to an unexpected alliance with Queen Elizabeth I.
Robert Bruce
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Greg Jenner is joined by Dr. Iain MacInnes and comedian Marjolein Robertson to dive into the life of Robert Bruce, Scotland’s legendary independence hero and king. Born into a time of political chaos, Robert had to navigate a fierce battle for the Scottish throne, one that even involved his own grandfather. But when Edward I of England claimed dominance over Scotland, Robert’s fight became about more than just kingship; it was a struggle for freedom. This episode follows his journey through Ireland, clashes with the papacy, an unexpected truce with England, and the military triumphs that secured his legacy.
Neanderthals
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Teaming up with comedian Tim Minchin and Palaeolithic archaeologist Dr. Becky Wragg Sykes, Jenner journeys deep into the world of Neanderthals. Who were they really? Were they just the stocky, grunting cavemen of pop culture, or have we completely misjudged them? From their intelligence to their way of life, this episode uncovers the surprising truths about these fascinating ancient humans who roamed the Earth long before us.
Catherine the Great
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Kicking off a new series, Greg Jenner is joined by Dr. Julia Leikin and comedian David Mitchell to explore the life of Catherine the Great. Born a German princess, Catherine defied expectations to become Empress of Russia, balancing Enlightenment ideals with a thirst for imperial expansion. This episode traces her journey from childhood in Germany to her marriage to the Russian heir and the dramatic coup that secured her reign, unraveling the contradictions of one of history’s most fascinating rulers.
The Ancient Olympics
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Greg Jenner teams up with Professor Michael Scott and comedian Shaparak Khorsandi to talk about the ancient Olympics. They uncover the extreme lengths taken to keep women from witnessing the games, the brutal events that pushed competitors to their limits, and the surprising fact that even death wasn’t enough to disqualify a champion.
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