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.
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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
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Hosts: Dr. Emma & Rebecca Larson
Guest. 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
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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
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: 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.
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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
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Hosts:
Rebecca Larson
Dr. 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).
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We are also have a FREE live chat with Sophie Bacchus-Waterman on November 15th - get your FREE ticket NOW!
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guests: 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 Larson
Guest: 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.
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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
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Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron
Guest: 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 Amazon
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
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: 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.
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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
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Hosts:
Rebecca Larson
Dr. 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: Indiegogo
Matt's podcast: Gone Medieval
Matt's books can be purchased everywhere, but here is a link to his Amazon US page
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We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, Spending the Holidays with Mary I!!
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Credits:
Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: 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!
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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!
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Website: http://www.elizabethnorton.co.uk/
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: 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!
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Check out Rebecca's Substack - Rebecca Larson's History Corner at https://rebeccalarson.substack.com
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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!
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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!
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: 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
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Are you looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to my Patreon!
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Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: Alison Weir
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.
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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!
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Credits:
Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron
Links:EARLY BIRD PRICING ENDS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17TH!
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
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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!
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Credits:
Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: Dr. Linda Porter
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.
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Check out MrsBakewells.com and use promo code "Tudors" for 10% off your order!!
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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
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Credits:
Host: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma
Today I’m joined by PhD student and author Conor Byrne for a fascinating discussion about Mary, Queen of Scots, Anne Boleyn, Katheryn Howard, and Lady Jane Grey. Together, we explore how the narratives surrounding these women have evolved over time — and uncover the striking similarities in their stories of power, downfall, and legacy.
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Episode Sponsor:
Check out MrsBakewells.com and use promo code "Tudors" for 10% off your order!!
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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
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Credits:
Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: Conor Byrne
In this episode, we explore the unexpected connections between Hans Holbein, the great portraitist of the Tudor age, and Desiderius Erasmus, the humanist scholar whose ideas shaped an era. Though one wielded a brush and the other a pen, both were master observers of humanity—capturing the spirit, intellect, and anxieties of the Renaissance. Join us as we compare their worlds, their patrons, and the ways their work continues to define how we understand early modern Europe.
Show your support for the show and become a Patreon patron! Early access, commercial-free episodes, & more! https://'patreon.com/tudorsdynasty
Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Luisa Cahill Marron
Replay Episode (Originally aired January 2024):
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Emma Cahill Marron to explore the life of Juana of Castile, elder sister of Katherine of Aragon, better known by the unfair moniker “Juana the Mad.” Together, we revisit her story to challenge the long-standing misconceptions and uncover the truth behind her life and le
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Credits:
Host: Rebecca Larson
Guest: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron
Voiceover: David Black
#queens #tudors #history #womeninhistory #juanathemad #juanaofcastile #isabellaofcastile #ferdinandofaragon #katherineofaragon #henryvii #henryviii #queenmaryi #philippiiofspain #charlesv #royalhistory
In this episode, Dr. Emma and I set Catherine de Medici and Katherine of Aragon side by side—two queens whose lives reveal the price of power and the strength required to survive it. Katherine of Aragon held firm against Henry VIII’s attempts to cast her aside, defending her daughter’s right to inherit England’s crown. Catherine de Medici, long dismissed as an outsider in France, became the strategist who steered a kingdom through wars of religion and the reigns of her sons.
This Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 1:00PM CDT, there is a Special Event with my friend, Matthew Lewis. Matt will be discussing my favorite, Empress Mathilda, and why shoud could not win the Crown. Get your tickets now before they'll unavailable! LEARN MORE!
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Link to the Mary Tudor (Mary I) image: https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b10544185k/f1.item.zoom
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Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr Emma Cahill Marron