Rex Factor

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Rex Factor is a light-hearted look at all the kings and queens of England and Scotland. One by one we review every monarch by a number of factors - success in battle, notoriety, justice - before giving them our final judgement and deciding whether they have the Rex Factor!

Rex Factor


    • May 30, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 3m AVG DURATION
    • 294 EPISODES

    4.9 from 837 ratings Listeners of Rex Factor that love the show mention: rex factor, monarchs, british history, english history, saxon, scots, royal history, british monarchy, subjectivity, scottish history, charles ii, anxiously awaited, anglophiles, one friend, dan carlin's hardcore history, long may, thank you graham, grail, first series, sweet spot.


    Ivy Insights

    The Rex Factor podcast is an impressive source of knowledge and entertainment for history enthusiasts. With its engaging conversation format, witty banter, and scoring system, it offers a brilliant and innovative way to learn about historical figures. The hosts, Ali and Graham, have a fantastic depth of knowledge and present the facts in an addictive and enjoyable manner. It's a unique combination that sets this podcast apart in the world of podcasts.

    One of the best aspects of The Rex Factor podcast is its lively and sparky nature. The hosts bring a fresh perspective to British and European history, making it accessible for all listeners. The research behind each episode is thorough, ensuring accuracy while still maintaining an entertaining tone. The scoring system adds an element of excitement as listeners anticipate which historical figure will receive the "Rex factor". Additionally, the inclusion of consorts in later episodes shows a thoughtful consideration for their role in history.

    While there aren't many flaws with this podcast, some listeners may find that the initial episodes had poorer sound quality. However, this issue has been addressed in later episodes as the format matured and production quality improved. It's worth noting that this might not be a major concern for everyone but could be off-putting initially.

    In conclusion, The Rex Factor podcast is a top-notch historical podcast that delivers both knowledge and entertainment in equal measure. The hosts' chemistry is evident throughout each episode, making it enjoyable for listeners from start to finish. Whether you're a history buff or simply have a passing interest in British or European history, this podcast will captivate you with its engaging format, thorough research, and entertaining delivery. Overall, it's highly recommended for anyone looking to delve into captivating stories from the past while having fun along the way.



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    Latest episodes from Rex Factor

    Messages & Previews 10

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 51:28


    We respond to some of your messages about all elements of the podcast, as well as share some previews of our bonus content. We are doing a live show! Join us in Ludlow on Friday 15 August 19:30 for the Battle of the Champions: https://ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk/event/rex-factor-battle-of-the-champions/ On the day of release, there is one final day to vote for Semi-Final D in the play-offs: https://forms.gle/bSFXbecKNpueAFWJ9 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Live in Ludlow 2025 News

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 5:59


    We are doing another live show! We are returning to the Ludlow Assembly Rooms on Friday 15 August 19:30 for The Battle of the Champions, as we pit our three series champions against each other: Henry II from series 1, Robert the Bruce from series 2 and whoever comes out on top in the consorts play-offs. Tickets are available now via the Ludlow Assembly Rooms website - we'd love to see you there! https://ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk/event/rex-factor-battle-of-the-champions/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.82 Play-Offs: Semi-Final D

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 62:36


    It's the last of the semi-finals - who will be the final consort to make it to the Grand Final? Your contenders this week: Æthelflæd Lady of the Mercians, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Caroline of Ansbach. Rank them in order and help decide who makes it to the final! You have until Friday 30 May 23:59 (BST) to vote. Cast your vote via the link below: https://forms.gle/w4nx1fxU86ZVeBME9 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.81 Play-Offs: Semi-Final C

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 68:37


    The semi-finals are underway and the stakes are getting higher: just three consorts in each group and only the winner to go through to the Grand Final. Your contenders this week: Ælfthryth, Isabella of France and Katherine Parr. Rank them in order and help decide who makes it to the final! You have until Friday 23 May 23:59 (BST) to vote. Cast your vote via the link below: https://forms.gle/8VhNdR7wfcBB3zqJ7 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.80 Play-Offs: Semi-Final B

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 70:08


    The semi-finals are underway and the stakes are getting higher: just three consorts in each group and only the winner to go through to the Grand Final. Your contenders this week: Emma of Normandy, Matilda of Boulogne, and Anne Boleyn. Rank them in order and help decide who makes it to the final! You have until Friday 16 May 23:59 (BST) to vote. Cast your vote via the link below: https://forms.gle/cN2owtGg7RaC2ktK7 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.79 Play-Offs: Semi-Final A

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 71:33


    The semi-finals begin and the stakes are getting higher: just three consorts in each group and only the winner to go through to the Grand Final. Your contenders this week: Margaret of Anjou, Katherine of Aragon, and Henrietta Maria. Rank them in order and help decide who makes it to the final! You have until Friday 09 May 23:59 (BST) to vote. Cast your vote via the link below: https://forms.gle/zWcSLeqtnadVvTzc8 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply 8: First Round Results Comments

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 81:10


    We go through lots of your comments from the voting forms for the First Round Results of the play-offs, hearing your thoughts (good and bad) about all of the consorts, helping us to get a sense of how the consorts are viewed by you and (more to the point) the extent to which Ali understands who everybody is. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.78 First Round Results Analysis

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 59:52


    Ahead of the semi-finals, we have a look at the voting stats from the First Round. We know who has gone through and who was placed where by the public, but how did they get there? Graham explains the voting percentages and all the preferential voting, Ali tries to remember who everybody is, and we consider who is looking well-set ahead of the semi-finals. Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.77 Play-Offs: First Round Results

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2025 47:12


    We have reviewed all the queen and prince consorts of England from Ealhswith to prince Philip, and now it's time to find our series champion! In this episode, we reveal the results from the First Round - who is going through to the Semi-Finals and who has been eliminated? Watch us reveal the results via the link below: https://youtu.be/jbO84TZnltc Sign up to become a Privy Councillor and access all the bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Messages & Previews 9

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 64:52


    We respond to some of your messages about all elements of the podcast, as well as share some previews of our bonus content. On the day of release, there is one final day to vote for Group C and one more week to vote for Group D in the play-offs - all the links are available here: https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/consort-vote Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.76 Play-Offs: First Round - Group D

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2025 62:52


    The play-offs have begun! In the last of the first round contests, we pit Ælfthryth, Elizabeth Woodville, Matilda of Boulogne, and Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians against each other. All of them have the Rex Factor, but only three can make it through to the Semi-Finals, so who will it be? In this episode, we consider all four consorts in each factor, then at the end of the episode, Ali and Graham rank the consorts (secretly), and that is what you need to do as well. Follow the link below to cast your vote and rank the consorts in this group in order (Google sign-in required). You have until Friday 21 March 23:59 GMT before the poll closes. https://forms.gle/FbhN8yFMuUP6F8847 Links to all the other forms and more information about the play-offs is available on our website: https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/consort-vote Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.75 Play-Offs: First Round - Group C

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2025 61:51


    The play-offs have begun! In the third of the first round contests, we pit Isabella of France, Henrietta Maria, Caroline of Ansbach, Mary of Teck and Caroline of Brunswick against each other. All of them have the Rex Factor, but only three can make it through to the Semi-Finals, so who will it be? In this episode, we consider all five consorts in each factor, then at the end of the episode, Ali and Graham rank the consorts (secretly), and that is what you need to do as well. Follow the link below to cast your vote and rank the consorts in this group in order (Google sign-in required). You have until Friday 14 March 23:59 GMT before the poll closes. https://forms.gle/7zcSivrB2s6HgABv7 Links to all the other forms and more information about the play-offs is available on our website: https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/consort-vote Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.74 Play-Offs: First Round - Group B

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2025 69:08


    The play-offs have begun! In the first of the first round contests, we pit Eleanor of Aquitaine, Katherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Eadgifu of Kent against each other. All of them have the Rex Factor, but only three can make it through to the Semi-Finals, so who will it be? In this episode, we consider all five consorts in each factor, then at the end of the episode, Ali and Graham rank the consorts (secretly), and that is what you need to do as well. Follow the link below to cast your vote and rank the consorts in this group in order (Google sign-in required). You have until Friday 07 March 23:59 GMT before the poll closes. https://forms.gle/yR6LX1K9ZTRYrqZ77 Links to all the other forms and more information about the play-offs is available on our website: https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/consort-vote Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.73 Play-Offs: First Round - Group A

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2025 75:28


    The play-offs have begun! In the first of the first round contests, we pit Emma of Normandy, Prince Albert, Matilda of Scotland, Katherine Parr and Margaret of Anjou against each other. All of them have the Rex Factor, but only three can make it through to the Semi-Finals, so who will it be? In this episode, we consider all five consorts in each factor, then at the end of the episode, Ali and Graham rank the consorts (secretly), and that is what you need to do as well. Follow the link below to cast your vote and rank the consorts in this group in order (Google sign-in required). You have until Friday 28 February 23:59 GMT before the poll closes. https://forms.gle/Z6Hg6g9yAGfXs4HE8 Sign up for lots of bonus content, including play-off extras such as a prize draw for a Zoom chat with Ali and Graham, a mini-play-off for the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and to vote for what we do in series 4. All that and more here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply 7: Play-Off Draw

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2025 66:51


    Before we get started on the Play-Offs, we respond to your messages about the play-off draw - your thoughts on the process, who you are predicting/wanting to win, and what should win the vote for series 4. The first play-off episode (Group A) will be out next Friday. Sign up to join the Privy Council at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor to get the podcast ad-free, as well as over 350 bonus podcasts and lots of extras during the play-offs, including voting for Series 4, a Privy Council-only play-offs between the consorts who nearly got the Rex Factor, and prize draws to chat with us! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.72 The Play-Off Draw

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2025 53:52


    We have reviewed all the queen and prince consorts of England from Ealhswith to prince Philip, and now it's time to find our series champion! In this episode, we reveal how the play-offs will work and do the draw to see which Rex Factor-winning consorts will be up against each other in the first round, as well as details about series 4 and bonuses for Privy Councillors. We also recorded this on video with extra graphics and a secondary camera, so check that out via the link below: https://youtu.be/P96ESCgVSGg Let us know your thoughts on the draw - who will be going through to the semi-finals? Which is the toughest group? Who will be the ultimate champion? Sign up to become a Privy Councillor and access all the bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    england draw ealhswith
    Messages & Previews 8

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2024 77:42


    Before we get on to the play-offs in the new year, we read some of your messages relating to all aspects of the podcast (both recent and long ago) and share some previews of our bonus content on Patreon. If you would like to join the Privy Council and access the over 350 episodes of bonus content (plus ad-free versions of the main podcast) you can sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Lucy Hughes-Hallett (The Duke of Buckingham)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 77:53


    We speak to Lucy Hughes-Hallett about her fascinating book Scapegoat: The Brilliant Brief Life of the Duke of Buckingham. Buckingham was a favourite of both James I and Charles I, lover to the former and mentor to the latter. Lucy tells us about his unlike rise to power and some of the dramatic (and sometimes farcical) stories from his life. Sign up for ad-free episodes and 350+ bonus episodes at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    buckingham lucy hughes hallett
    Jane Tippett (The Lost Memoir of Edward VIII)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2024 65:29


    We speak to Jane Tippett on the fascinating story of Edward VIII's memoir, with Jane telling us about how and why the book was written and the wealth of new material that she has found giving us further insight into Edward's views on his childhood, time as Prince of Wales and the Abdication Crisis. You can find out more about Jane at her website http://janemtippett.com/ and on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jane_marguerite_tippett/ Her book is Once a King: The Lost Memoir of Edward VIII Become a Privy Councillor to get these podcasts ad-free as well as 350+ bonus podcasts at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply: Windsor Consorts - Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 43:19


    After taking your messages on the first three Windsor consorts, today we deal respond to your messages about Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Prince Philip - only two of them, but as the most recent and very much within living memory, they very much generated the most discussion! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply: Windsor Consorts - Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2024 52:35


    We tackle your messages about the Windsor consorts, but because we had so many messages and so much to talk about, we've had to cut the episode in half! So in Part 1, we respond to your messages about Alexandra of Denmark, Mary of Teck and Wallis Simpson, with messages on Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Prince Philip to follow next week. Sign up for ad-free episodes and bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Find all our links at https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.71 Prince Philip: Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2024 76:37


    It's the end of the series - with this episode, we finish our review of all the consorts from Ealhswith to Prince Philip. With the war, gaffes galore and a record-breaking stint as consort, there's plenty to discuss. The question is, will Prince Philip, consort to Elizabeth II, take the final place on the Rex Factor mountain? Sign up for ad-free episodes and over 350 bonus podcasts at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.70 Prince Philip: Biography

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 73:50


    We reach the end of the series, or nearly the end, as we embark on the first of two episodes for Prince Philip, the consort to Elizabeth II. No reviewing this time, but instead we take a look at his life and consortship, particularly a dramatic start to life which sees flight from revolution, family tragedy and the Second World War before things settle down and he becomes consort. Sign up to get the podcast ad-free along with hundreds of bonus episodes at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.69 Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon: Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2024 64:02


    In Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's second episode, we review the consort of King George VI by all the factors and decide whether or not she had the Rex Factor. Subscribe at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor for ad-free episodes and hundreds of bonus episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.68 Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon: Biography

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2024 61:04


    In the first of two episodes, we look at the life and queenship of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (AKA the Queen Mother), consort to King George VI. From growing up in a Scottish castle to the First World War, becoming the Duchess of York, helping the monarchy through the Abdication Crisis and the Second World to a half-century as the Queen Mother, Elizabeth spanned the twentieth century. We tell the story of her long life in this episode, with the review to follow in the second of her episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.67 Wallis Simpson: Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2024 70:52


    This time we review Wallis Simpson, the wife-but-not-consort of Edward VIII. There's lots for us to get our teeth stuck into: an independent spirit but not able to become queen; myriad rumours of scandals across the world plus an unhealthy dose of Nazi associations. Famous, notorious and compelling - but does she have that certain something? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.66 Wallis Simpson: Biography

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2024 73:47


    In the first two episodes, we tackle one of the most controversial women in English royal history, Wallis Simpson. Technically not a consort, but her role in the Abdication Crisis and marrying the (former) King Edward VIII makes hers a fascinating and pertinent part of the story. In this episode, we tell her full life story, from growing up in Baltimore to marrying the king and having tea with Hitler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.65 Mary of Teck

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2024 71:08


    Mary of Teck (or Queen Mary, as many would have known her) was the consort of George V, and the first proper Windsor consort. Together with George, she helped set a model for the modern monarchy, facing a remarkable succession of crises (including two world wars). It was quite the story to get there as well, with a disrupted childhood, a royal tragedy and much more besides. Mary of Teck was there for it all, but will that be enough for the Rex Factor? Sign up for bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Go to https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com/ for all our links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.64 Alexandra of Denmark

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2024 69:19


    We are into our final mini-series of the series, with Alexandra of Denmark (or Alix, as she was known), consort to King Edward VII. Alix enjoyed a surprisingly modest upbringing and was not initially favoured as a bride by Queen Victoria, but her kindly character and natural beauty saw her win the day. However, she would have to deal with excessive nagging from her mother-in-law and serial infidelity from her husband as well as the pressures of ill health and international diplomacy. It would be a long wait to become queen, but will Alexandra of Denmark be able to make her mark and be worthy of the Rex Factor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Messages and Previews 7

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2024 67:41


    Before we get started on the Windsor consorts, we read through various listener correspondence as well as sharing previews of our bonus content, including our new special episode on Geoffrey Chaucer. You can sign up to join the Privy Council and gain access to all our bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor And you can purchase the Geoffrey Chaucer special episode (as well as all our other specials) here: https://payhip.com/RexFactorPodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Gretchen Gerzina (Britain's Black Georgian History)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 75:54


    We chat to the historian Professor Gretchen Gerzina about Black Britons in Georgian Britain. There is a widespread misconception that Britain's black history only begins with Windrush, but we discuss the sizeable black and mixed raced population in Georgian Britain, the differing experiences that these people faced and some of the fascinating characters of the time. For more information on Gretchen, check out her website https://gretchengerzina.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Gareth Russell (Hampton Court Palace)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2024 79:37


    We speak to the historian Gareth Russell about his book The Palace, which covers the history of Hampton Court Palace, from the Tudors to the Windsors. It's a fascinating book (and podcast!) covering lots of fascinating characters - from Henry VIII and George III to chocolatiers and the Romanovs. For more on Gareth, you can find him on Twitter (https://x.com/garethrussell1) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/_garethrussell) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Penelope Corfield (The Georgians)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 83:27


    We speak to the historian Professor Penelope Corfield about the Georgians in a wide-ranging discussion that takes us from epoch-shifting changes in technology and literacy to the beginnings of handshakes and the postal system. For more information on Penelope and her essays, check out her website: https://www.penelopejcorfield.com/ For additional resources on the Georgians: https://www.thegeorgiansdeedsandmisdeeds.com/ Plus you can buy her excellent book on the subject, The Georgians: The Deeds and Misdeeds of 18th-Century Britain, online and all good bookstores. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply: Hanoverian Consorts

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2024 79:29


    Having finished our mini-series on the Hanoverian consorts, we go through some of your messages, points of debate and more Max Boneyman! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.63 Prince Albert: Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2024 68:35


    After a full biography episode last week, this time we review Prince Albert, scoring him on the factors and deciding whether or not he has the Rex Factor. Sign up for ad-free episodes and lots of bonus content at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.62 Prince Albert: Biography

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 62:04


    In the first of two episodes, we do a full episode just looking at the life and consortship of Prince Albert, husband to Queen Victoria, with a full review episode to come next time. One of the most famous names in British royal history, Albert has perhaps been overshadowed by the extensive memorialisation undertaken by Victoria after his death, so we put the realm man centre stage: how did he come to marry Victoria, what was his role as consort and was it really such a great romance? Head to https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor for ad-free episode and lots of bonus content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Feed Swap: History Daily

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 41:11


    We are off for Easter for a couple of weeks before getting back to Prince Albert, so this week we're doing a feed swap with the History Daily Podcast, which releases c. 15 minute episodes every weekday covering an event in history. We are showcasing two of their episodes which should hopefully be of interest to Rex Factor Listeners: the jousting injury that changed the course of Henry VIII's life and reign, and the death of Elizabeth I and the end of the Tudor dynasty. (Apologies, this episode should have come out on the 5th of April but some reason got stuck in drafts and didn't release!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Linda Porter: Mistresses of Charles II

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2024 78:26


    We speak to the historian Dr Linda Porter about some of the most notable mistresses of Charles II (Lucy Walter, Barbara Villiers, Frances Stuart, Nell Gwynn, Hortense Mancini), discussing why we know so much about them, what they tell us about Charles and how this affected his wife and queen, Catherine of Braganza. Sign up for bonus content (including ad-free episodes and hundreds of Patreon-exclusive bonus episodes) at https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor For all our links and more information, go to https://www.rexfactorpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    mistresses charles ii braganza linda porter nell gwynn
    S3.61 Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2024 64:31


    Adelaide is probably one of the least famous of Britain's consorts, wife of William IV. A very different character to her predecessor, Queen Caroline, Adelaide was quiet and kind but faced the challenge of an eccentric and uncouth husband in William and a febrile political atmosphere with agitation for reform. Will slow and steady win the race? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.60 Caroline of Brunswick

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 70:31


    If Ali still had his scandal bell, this episode might break it! It's Caroline of Brunswick this week, consort to George IV despite his spending their entire marriage trying to prevent that eventuality. A poorly matched couple, Caroline lived life according to her own rules, creating scandal in England and then in European exile before returning for a grand battle as George tried to deny her her position as Queen. It certainly made an impression, but will it deserve the Rex Factor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.59 Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2024 62:44


    This week we review Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife and consort of King George III. We look at how she came to be king at all, what was her role as consort and how her life was turned up side down by the Regency Crisis of 1788-89 when George III suffered a total collapse in his mental health. We will see whether her reaction to this, alongside her output as consort over a significant period of time, will be enough for the coveted Rex Factor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.58 Caroline of Ansbach

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2024 66:27


    It's the first Hanoverian consort proper this week with Caroline of Ansbach, queen consort to George II. She's not so famous now, but Caroline was a highly influential consort, loved and respected by her husband and enjoying great influence through an alliance with Robert Walpole (the country's first Prime Minister). However, she also had to manage the usual Hanoverian family conflicts, with each generation hating each other, as well as her own husband's foibles and mistresses. So will Caroline emerge from the shadows and back into the Rexy spotlight? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.57 Sophia Dorothea of Celle

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2024 67:24


    Sophia Dorothea of Celle was the wife of King George I but she was not, technically, a consort. We'll explain why this was the case, taking in dynastic politics, an unhappy marriage, a passionate romance, high drama and a new heroic character mostly invented by Ali. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Royals at War: We Have Ways Fest 2022 (Live)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2023 67:36


    A little bonus to finish 2023, we've dipped into the archives and pulled out this recording of a live show we did at the We Have Ways of Making You Talk Festival in July 2022. We Have Ways of Making You Talk is a Second World War podcast, so we were talking about the royals during the war, specifically focusing on the former king (Edward VIII) and the actual king (George VI), looking at their different experiences of the war and some of their relationship during it. The episode was not recorded through the sound desk, so the sound quality isn't up to our usual standards, but a big thanks to Mike Hammock who has helped to boost the audio quality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Messages and Previews 6

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 74:22


    Before we get started on the Hanoverian consorts, we read through various listener correspondence as well as sharing previews of our bonus content, including our new special episode on Edgar the Ætheling. You can sign up to join the Privy Council and gain access to all our bonus content here: https://www.patreon.com/rexfactor And you can purchase the Edgar the Ætheling special episode (as well as all our other specials) here: https://payhip.com/RexFactorPodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Male Consorts (Dr Ellie Woodacre)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2023 68:44


    We speak to Dr Ellie Woodacre again, this time about male consorts. Our last mini series had two male consorts (Philip II and Prince George of Denmark) as well as covering the time period of Elizabeth I (with no consort) and William and Mary. We speak to Ellie about where England's experience fits in with other European countries - did England come to queens regnant late? What kind of roles, powers and titles did male consorts have in other countries? You can follow Ellie on X/Twitter (@monarchyconf) or check out her podcast Royal Studies Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Emma Southon: A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2023 79:34


    We speak to Dr Emma Southon for the second time on the podcast, this time discussing her new book A History of the Roman Empire in 21 Women (or A Rome of One's Own in the US), a fascinating look at women from Roman history that (mostly) people don't tend to have heard of, but who give us a fascinating alternative look at the history of Ancient Rome and the varying experience of women in that history. For more on Emma, check out her website https://www.emmasouthon.com and her podcast History is Sexy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Leah Redmond Chang (Young Queens)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2023 98:50


    We speak to the author and historian Lead Redmond about her book 'Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power', which looks at the lives of Catherine de' Medici (Queen Consort and Mother of France), Elisabeth de Valois (Queen Consort of Spain) and Mary Queen of Scots (Queen Regnant of Scotland and Consort of France). For a time, they all lived under one roof, but even when their paths diverged, they continue to be closely connected and were key figures in the web of European diplomacy in the second half of the sixteenth century. You can follow Leah on Instagram (@leahredmondchang) or find out more at her website: https://www.leahredmondchang.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Right to Reply: Stuart Consorts

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2023 83:20


    Having finished our mini-series on the Stuart consorts (plus a couple of others), we go through some of your messages, responding to corrections, points of debate and whatever else comes up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.56 Prince George of Denmark

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2023 64:28


    It's the last of the Stuart consorts this time with the consort of Queen Anne, Prince George of Denmark. Often maligned by contemporaries, George nevertheless had a significant role as the first male consort not to be king. Derided by many but loved by Anne, George was a player in the tumultuous events of the late seventeenth century and a bit of a trailblazer for unambitious chaps, but is that enough for the Rex Factor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    S3.55 Mary of Modena

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 63:57


    Mary of Modena is not one of the more famous names for English consorts but subject to one of the most notorious incidents as mother to the so-called 'bedpan baby'. We look at the truth of this as well as Mary's life, second wife to the man who would become James II, at the eye of the storm for the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and then the life of the Jacobite Matriarch in French exile. Will the real Mary warrant her notoriety and does she have enough about her to claim the Rex Factor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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