PONTIFACTS: Ranking the Popes

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161. Urban II Feb 09, 2026

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We have reached yet another juggernaut in the High Middle Ages: Urban II!
In his episode, we discuss bigamous marriages, incestuous orgies, the First Crusade, and "Deus Vult".

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Crossover: The Carolingian Papacy with Storia D'Italia! Jan 29, 2026

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Surprise bonus episode, looking back!

As Storia d'Italia approaches the Carolingian Papacy, Marco invited Bry for a retrospective on the shifting landscape of the popes, power, and paradigm in that period.

Find Storia d'Italia here (In Italian): https://italiastoria.com/

160. Victor III Jan 26, 2026

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Pope Victor III is undeniably a significant historical figure, but has the unusual honour of being more famous for his pre-papal life! In his episode, we discuss the Golden Age of Montecassino, regifting stolen goods, the ultimate dilly-dallying, and only briefly lament for him that we are not rating abbots.
Pontifacts is speaking at Intelligent Speech 2026! Get your tickets at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/

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159. Gregory VII Dec 08, 2025

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They finally got him! Despite being the hide and seek champion, Hildebrand has finally been cornered into being pope. And what a papacy he will have! In his episode (now officially our longest episode to date), we will discuss the Investiture Controversy, the famous Walk to Canossa, what the hell a 'toot' could be, and something that Fry hates, but Bry loves.
Episode features Ben Jacobs from Wittenberg to Westphalia, David Montgomery from The Siecle, and Gregg Gassman of Popeular history.

158. Alexander II Nov 24, 2025

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Pope Alexander II might not have been the holiest member of his family, but he still certainly left an impact.
In his episode, we discuss the Patarines, the fallout of In Nomine Domini, and the Norman Conquest of England in 1066
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157. Nicholas II Nov 03, 2025

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Pope Nicholas II became the first pope in history to actually regulate papal elections! In his episode, we discuss a major change in relations with the Normans, the beginnings of the Pataria, and the massively influential In Nomine Domini!

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156. Stephen IX Oct 20, 2025

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Pope Stephen IX is the last Pope Stephen in history thusfar! In his episode, we discuss his very odd choices, both around family and power.

155. Victor II Oct 06, 2025

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Following behind the juggernaut of Pope Leo IX, Victor II decides to follow his model in many ways. In his episode, we discuss incredible regencies, important councils, and Florence, for the first time!!

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Bonus: The Miracles of Leo IX Sep 22, 2025

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The life of Pope Leo IX was so full of miracles that we had to dedicate a full episode to cover them all! In this episode, we discuss miraculous animals, markings, visions and smitings, and walk away with the most important prayer: "Please don't scrub my guts."

154. Leo IX Sep 08, 2025

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Coming in at a rival for our longest episode to date, we introduce Pope Leo IX, the Battley Pilgrim Pope! In his episode, we discuss the beginning of the High Medieval Papacy, a massive recovery and reformation for the church, the Great Schism of 1054, and so many freakin' miracles.

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