Tudors Dynasty - RedTop Media / Rebecca Larson

Latest Episodes:

Dr. Emma & Me: Parallel Lives - Juana of Castile and Anne Boleyn Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

We're back with the second episode in our Parallel Lives series, and this time we're exploring the unexpected connections between Juana of Castile and Anne Boleyn. They had far more in common than I ever imagined. Since it's the follow-up to our first episode, we begin with a quick recap, share some great listener feedback, and wander down a few fun historical side roads—before diving into the fascinating parallels between Juana and Anne. If you'd rather skip straight to the comparison, jump ahead to 12:45.

Watch: Parallel Lives - Isabel I of Castile and Katherine of Aragon

Episode with Sylvia where she discusses the phoenix

Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Medieval Princesses: The Daughters of King John Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

King John’s legacy is often overshadowed by failure, but his daughters left a far more fascinating mark. In this episode, we explore the lives of his legitimate daughters, Joan, Isabella, and Eleanor, as well as his illegitimate daughter, Joan of Wales. Their stories reveal the unexpected power and influence royal women could wield in the 13th century.

Sharon's books on Amazon

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Read more about history on the website: https://tudorsdynasty.com

Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

Caroline Ansbach: The Woman Behind George II Jun 08, 2025

Show notes

What do Voltaire, smallpox, and royal scandal have in common? Queen Caroline of Ansbach. In this episode, we uncover the story of the brilliant, bold, and often overlooked consort of George II—an Enlightenment queen who pulled political strings, promoted science, and navigated the drama of court life with razor-sharp intellect. Tune in to meet the queen history forgot to spotlight.

Narrated by: Rebecca Larson

Researched and written by: Emily Airey

Dr. Emma & Me: Parallel Lives - Isabel of Castile and Katherine of Aragon Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the very first official episode of Dr. Emma and Me! Today, we're exploring the fascinating parallel lives of Katherine of Aragon and her formidable mother, Isabel of Castile—two queens shaped by power, faith, and destiny.

Want to support the show, get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content? https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty

Love to read about history? https://tudorsdynasty.com

Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr Emma

Image Credits:

Isabel of Castile: Museo del Prado

Katherine of Aragon: Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

Minds Behind the Monarchy: Cromwell, Reform, and Religion Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

This episode goes far beyond Thomas Cromwell. Join us as we explore the shifting tides of religion in Tudor England—from the ruthless politics of the Reformation to the 'what ifs' of Edward VI’s reign. We discuss how the Rough Wooing turned England into the joke of Europe, and how Elizabeth I’s open-minded approach to faith helped steady a fractured kingdom—cementing her legacy as the true mother of the Church of England. If you're curious about how faith, power, and personality shaped a dynasty, this one's for you.

Host Rebecca Larson

Guest: Prof. Diarmaid MacCulloch

Recording Location: Courtyard at Cadhay Manor House in Devon.

This is a repeat episode from last Summer. If you'd like to watch the video you can do so, ⁠HERE⁠ !

King James and the Devil's Work May 29, 2025

Show notes

Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Steven Veerapen to unravel how the fear and condemnation of witchcraft evolved from the reign of Henry VIII to that of King James. Trust me—this isn’t your typical dry history lecture. Steven brings it to life in a way that’s both eye-opening and fascinating. If you’re thinking “ugh, witch trials—boring,” think again. You won’t want to miss this one!

Dr. Veerapen's Books

Love the show but prefer a commercial-free experience, early access, and exclusive content? Head on over to my Patreon page!

Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Dr. Steven Veerapen

Tudor Women in Portraiture May 27, 2025

Show notes

Today, I’m joined by the lovely Sylvia Barbara Soberton for a fascinating conversation about Tudor women in portraiture. We explore the stories behind the images—like Margaret Beaufort wearing spectacles (and not always dressed like a nun!) and the hidden message tucked inside Elizabeth I’s Exchequer Ring. I also do my best to show you the portraits as we discuss them!

Links to books about Margaret Beaufort's inventory:

Are you looking for a commercial-free episode, early access, and exclusive content? Head over to my Patreon page!!

Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

Not Just a Second Choice: The Woman Who Made Mozart Immortal May 25, 2025

Show notes

He was meant to marry her sister, but fate had other plans. In this episode, we uncover the remarkable life of Constance Mozart, the woman history often calls a footnote. Far more than a second choice, she was a devoted wife, mother, musician, and fierce guardian of Mozart’s legacy. Discover the strength, heartbreak, and brilliance of the woman behind the music.

Are you looking for a commercial-free experience, early access, exclusive content and more!? Head over to Patreon!!

Love to read about history? Head over to my website! https://tudorsdynasty.com

Narrated by: Rebecca Larson

Researched & Written by: Emily Airey

The Women Who Influenced Henry VIII May 22, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Emma and I explore the powerful women who shaped Henry VIII’s world. While history often highlights the men who influenced him, today we turn our attention to the fierce and formidable women who whispered in the ear of a king.

If you love the show and want exclusive content, commercial-free episodes, and more, head over to ⁠Patreon⁠!

Love to read about history? Head to my website: ⁠https://tudorsdynasty.com⁠

Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Bess Throckmorton: Duty, Love, and Scandal May 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we explore Tony Riches' Bess – Tudor Gentlewoman, uncovering the life of Bess Throckmorton, a woman who captured Sir Walter Raleigh's heart and played a subtle yet powerful role in the Tudor court. Riches’ book reveals the secrets, ambition, and quiet strength of this fascinating figure in Elizabethan history.

Tony's Book on Amazon

If you love the show and want exclusive content, commercial-free episodes, and more - head over to Patreon!

Love to read about history? Head to my website: https://tudorsdynasty.com

Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: Tony Riches