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Top 15 Biography Podcasts
Jul 25, 2024
The Best Biography Podcasts from millions of podcasts available on the Goodpods platform and ranked by listens, ratings, comments, subscriptions and shares.
Learn from history's greatest entrepreneurs. Every week I read a biography of an entrepreneur and find ideas you can use in your work. This quote explains why: "There are thousands of years of history in which lots and lots of very smart people worked very hard and ran all types of experiments on how to create new businesses, invent new technology, new ways to manage etc. They ran these experiments throughout their entire lives. At some point, somebody put these lessons down in a book. For very little money and a few hours of time, you can learn from someone’s accumulated experience. There is so much more to learn from the past than we often realize. You could productively spend your time reading experiences of great people who have come before and you learn every time." —Marc Andreessen
180 Episodes
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Avg Length 9m
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Latest episode 20 hours ago
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Each week, we aim to bring you interesting information about interesting people in about five minutes in the form of short biographies which can also be read on our website.
35 Episodes
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Avg Length 38m
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Latest episode 1 year ago
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Marlon and Jake Read Dead People is a podcast hosted by the Man Booker Prize-winning and internationally bestselling author Marlon James and his editor, Jake Morrissey, Executive Editor at Riverhead Books. In each episode, Marlon and Jake talk about authors—specifically dead authors. Authors they like. Authors they hate. Great books, terrible books, and books they love that you’d never expect them to. As a writer and an editor, Marlon and Jake have read thousands of books between them, and they’re not shy in expressing their opinions about them. Sometimes they’ll agree, sometimes they won’t, but in every episode, they’ll tell you what they think— uncensored and with no holds barred. (That’s why the authors have to be dead.) So, listen along to hear about the spectacularly good, the hilariously bad, and the brutally honest.
“Great empires are not maintained by timidity.” - Tacitus. A podcast series looking at the rulers of the ancient Roman empire, by Dr Rhiannon Evans and Matt Smith.
Phil Williams and Natalie Jamieson interview the world's biggest selling writers of fiction, non-fiction, sport, cookery, children's and biography books. These are big selling, easy to read books you'll love. Featuring writers who've sold millions and uncovering gems from new talent.
Each episode will feature a writer who'll read an extract of their book to you, discuss it with Phil & Natalie and also give their recommendations for other books to read.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
12 Episodes
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Avg Length 31m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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There are certain names which are familiar, as names, to all mankind; and every person who seeks for any degree of mental cultivation, feels desirous of informing himself of the leading outlines of their history, that he may know, in brief, what it was in their characters or their doings which has given them so widely-extended a fame. Consequently, great historical names alone are selected; and it has been the writer’s aim to present the prominent and leading traits in their characters, and all the important events in their lives, in a bold and free manner, and yet in the plain and simple language which is so obviously required in works which aim at permanent and practical usefulness. This volume is dedicated to William the Conqueror.
My Dark Path explores the fringes of history, science, and the paranormal. In every episode, creator and host MF Thomas illuminates a topic taken from the dark corners of our world. Combining his personal, on-location research with insights from experts, researchers and historians, every episode will intrigue, excite, and perhaps, send a shiver down your spine. Visit www.mydarkpath.com for more information.
31 Episodes
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Avg Length 27m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Confessions (Latin: Confessiones) is the name of an autobiographical work, consisting of 13 books, by St. Augustine of Hippo, written between AD 397 and AD 398. Modern English translations of it are sometimes published under the title The Confessions of St. Augustine in order to distinguish the book from other books with similar titles, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s Confessions.
58 Episodes
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Avg Length 21m
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Latest episode 22 days ago
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The Jewish Lives Podcast is a monthly show that explores the lives of influential Jewish figures. Hosted by Alessandra Wollner, each episode includes an interview with an acclaimed Jewish Lives author. Jewish Lives is a prizewinning series of biography published by Yale University Press and the Leon D. Black Foundation. Join us as we explore the Jewish experience together.
637 Episodes
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Avg Length 80m
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Latest episode 4 hours ago
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Join host Rivers Langley and his hilarious pals on an intrepid expedition through the world of ridiculous news items, oft-forgotten pop culture, deep dives on a theme, and whatever else on L.A.'s longest-running independent comedy podcast, "The Goods from the Woods"! "The Goods from the Woods" will leave you enlightened. It will leave you enraptured. You will find yourself changed, daddy! Also, you will laugh.
158 Episodes
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Avg Length 62m
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Latest episode 7 days ago
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A podcast that is centered around the life story of the podcast guest.
13 Episodes
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Avg Length 37m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, written in 1789, is the autobiography of Olaudah Equiano. It discusses his time spent in slavery, serving primarily on galleys, documents his attempts at becoming an independent man through his study of the Bible, and his eventual success in gaining his own freedom and in business thereafter. The book contains an interesting discussion of slavery in West Africa and illustrates how the experience differs from the dehumanising slavery of the Americas. The Intereresting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano is also one of the first widely read slave narratives. This work was produced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in Great Britain.
Welcome to 20 Minute History, where every episode brings you the engaging story of an unknown or misunderstood historical concept, broadening your horizons and correcting the record on some popular misconceptions. Our show is carefully researched, taking into consideration as many different sources and perspectives as possible, so you can trust that we’re getting the information right. But we also know that most folks don't have a lot of time on their hands, which is why each of our lessons is over in twenty minutes or less. And most importantly, we recognize that being well-informed takes more than just memorizing the names, dates, and places, which is why we always strive for our narratives to include a deeper analysis. After all, knowing what happened on a particular date means almost nothing without a comprehension of why it matters to begin with. We may be just one small, independently-run podcast...but we genuinely believe that the more we do to widen our collective awareness of the past, the better our chances of repairing our communities and narrowing the divide in this country. If you are someone who shares these concerns, or if you’re simply a history fanatic, we humbly ask you to tune in.
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/20-minute-history.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
105 Episodes
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Avg Length 103m
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Latest episode 11 months ago
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Welcome to Back To Your Story. A podcast about real people and real stories. The journey of life has always fascinated BTYS host Brock Goldberg. Listen as he takes you down the rabbit hole filled with Rockstars, Activists, Cyber Security Specialists, Hairstylists, Pornstars, Entrepreneurs and so much more. Nothing is held back on BTYS. Tune in each week to find out what crazy guest Brock will bring on next.
23 Episodes
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Avg Length 35m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Two years, two months and two days! This is what forms the time line of one man's quest for the simple life and a unique social experiment in complete self reliance and independence. Henry David Thoreau published Walden in 1884. Originally drafted as a series of essays describing a most significant episode in his life, it was finally released in book form with each essay taking on the form of a separate chapter. Thoreau's parents were in financial straights, but rich intellectually and culturally. The young Henry was educated in the best of schools in their home town, Concord, Massachusetts and went on to graduate from Harvard, where he read history, philosophy, theology and literature. He commenced working as a school master in Concord but soon quit when he discovered that he was not ideologically suited to methods employed in those days which included corporal punishment. During this time, a chance meeting with the great philosopher, Ralph Waldo Emerson marked a turning point in his life. Deeply influenced by Emerson's ideas and his Transcendentalism cult, Thoreau embarked on the Walden experiment. The Transcendentalism movement was an amalgam of Buddhism, German and English Romanticism, Hindu teachings, Confucianism and placed great emphasis on emotional wellbeing, self reliance and personal truths rather than social norms. It rejected society's dominance over the individual. Walden Pond was located in a property owned by Emerson. Here, Thoreau built a cabin and proceeded to live a completely self sufficient life, gathering his own food and preparing it, sleeping and reading and appreciating nature as the whim took him. He meticulously recorded every experience and this forms the body of work known as Walden. The book received a lukewarm reception when it first appeared, but went on to gather cult status with the advent of the Flower Power generation, the anti-establishment movements against the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights movement. The concepts of individual freedom and individual choice became ingrained in the American psyche as a new generation of Americans re-discovered Walden. Walden's main appeal lies in its exploration of themes like solitude, economy, the simple life and the Higher Laws that he describes which relate to man's relationship to nature. Thoreau's style is attractive and easy, full of nuggets of folksy wisdom. Modern proponents of simplifying life, those who oppose our over reliance on technology and advocates of inner spiritual awakening are sure to find Walden a valuable and rewarding read.
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The Powell Movement is the podcast that pushes the envelope and is designed to be the go-to show for sports enthusiasts who want to know what it takes to achieve success.
22 Episodes
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Avg Length 65m
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Latest episode 2 years ago
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Welcome to the Philly People, Now Deceased, a Philadelphia History Brother and Sister Podcast. Each time we meet, Michiko, who lives in Pennsauken and Leonard, who lives in West Philly, talk about the sordid, exalted, infamous and famous lives of interesting Philadelphians with one caveat...they are all already deceased, May their souls rest in peace. Follow us on Twitter: @DeadPhillyPeeps or like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/deadphillypeeps/
Know Your History is a history podcast for kids about notable people and events from the past. We want to help kids build their background knowledge so that they can make more connections and engage in their world.
14 Episodes
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Avg Length 13m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Frederick Douglass was born into slavery on a Maryland plantation. He faced hardship as a child, but later encountered owners who were relatively liberal and allowed him to learn to read, write and be in contact with freed slaves. At the age of 20, he escaped from the plantation and made his way to New York. Though he remained a fugitive, he married and changed his name to avoid being caught. He continued his education and became involved in the Abolitionist Movement. He began touring the country, speaking passionately about the unjust, cruel and inhuman practice of slavery. However, he began to face opposition from quarters that he least expected. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass traces the turbulent, tragic and shameful period in the history of the United States. Douglass was also a gifted and committed public speaker, outspoken in his criticism of this inhuman practice. The book, published in 1845, originally entitled Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave, Written By Himself, was met with disbelief when it initially came out. Few could believe that an African American slave could write so eloquently and have such perfect use of the English language. However, Douglass had used real names, events and places in his story, which could be easily verified and this silenced his critics. Yet, his troubles were not over. His former masters were still entitled to track him down, and fearing capture, he departed for the UK where he was received with great warmth and respect. He stayed for two years till two of his British friends contributed to purchase his freedom. He then returned to America where he arrived at the dawn of the American Civil War. He started a newspaper and campaigned tirelessly for Lincoln and the abolition of slavery. He was also the first African American to be nominated for the post of Vice President of the USA. Narrative... was the first of several autobiographies, in which Douglass documented his eventful life. The book is divided into 11 chapters, tracing Douglass' childhood on the Maryland plantation, the daily cruelties practiced by slave owners, his move to Baltimore and the consequent experiences there. It is in Baltimore that he encounters more humane white people. However, even after being acclaimed as a speaker, he faced the condescending and patronizing attitude of white people. It was to counter this that he began to write his autobiography. As a slice of history, Narrative... is indeed an interesting and gripping read, and a great addition to your collection.
12 Episodes
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Avg Length 68m
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Latest episode 9 months ago
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DHaRCO Clothing proudly presents 'No Ordinary Life'. Join us as we speak with some of mountain biking's most interesting, exciting and celebrated figures. What does it take to live No Ordinary Life?
Welcome to the always entertaining and informative Killer Means Awesome podcast.
Season 1: Killer Shipwrecks - Think of shiny coins and sunken dreams. Each episode features an incredible story of a recently discovered shipwreck.
Season 2: Killer Biographies - Do you get Pocahontas and Sacagawea mixed up? So do we! Check out these true stories about historical figures you really should know better.
Season 3: Killer Inventions - Incredible true stories about inventors and the inventions that changed the world.
99 Episodes
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Avg Length 23m
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Latest episode 3 months ago
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The story about a boy thrown away at birth in Korea and rescued at the brink of death -- and his journey through life. The podcast explores Dr Terwilliger's humorous experiences on the farm, life in the Air Force, funny stories, travels around the world, and learning to cope with a disability that impacted his life. Join me on this journey and the twists and turns of life through the lens of a gay Asian American who lived the American dream. There will be lots of laughs, perhaps a tear; and mostly adventure! (Amazing cover art by artist Ken Bryson; intro/exit music by Markus Terwilliger). Boy In the Trash Can is a production of CSJ Associates and is dedicated to Barbara Holton Terwilliger
Design Radio
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Design Radio provides a weekly conversations exploring ideas, histories and profiles of leading designers and creatives. The series explores graphic design, furniture, craft and architecture. It provides a collaborative platform aiming to increase awareness and appreciation of design and develop new audiences. Design Radio is produced by MADE NORTH and hosted by Patrick Murphy. Found out more visit http://www.designradio.org/ Also visit MADE NORTH http://www.madenorth.co.uk and host Patrick Murphy hosted http://www.patrickmurphystudio.co.uk
18 Episodes
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Avg Length 14m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Childhood, published in 1852, is the first novel in Leo Tolstoy’s autobiographical trilogy, which also includes Boyhood, and Youth. Published when Tolstoy was twenty-three, the book gained immediate notice among Russian writers including Ivan Turgenev, and heralded the young Tolstoy as a major figure in Russian letters. Childhood is an expressionist exploration of the internal life of a young boy, Nikolenka, and was a new form in Russian writing, mixing fact, fiction and emotions to render the moods and reactions of the narrator. Childhood is Tolstoy’s first published work. Translated into English by C. J. Hogarth.
148 Episodes
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Avg Length 42m
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Latest episode 2 months ago
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Jon Evans of WECT/Fox Wilmington is in his 40th year of television news. He's asked a lot of questions, and you've seen or heard the answers on his newscasts. Jon is now asking different questions, going in-depth with interviews and learning things that only a few people know. Politicians, business leaders, entrepreneurs, athletes, entertainers - you'll know them better after hearing them go "1 on 1 with Jon Evans."
The most influential biographies ever written, admired by leaders, creators, soldiers, and thinkers for nearly 2,000 years: Plutarch’s Parallel lives. Essential listening for anyone striving after greatness. Alex Petkas, former professor of ancient philosophy and history, revives and dramatically retells these unforgettable stories for modern audiences. The subjects are statesmen, generals, orators, and founders; pious and profane, stoics and hedonists. The stakes bear on the future of Western civilization. The cost of glory is always great. Visit costofglory.com to find out more.
38 Episodes
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Avg Length 29m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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John G. Nicolay was Abraham Lincoln’s private White House secretary. With assistant secretary, John Hay, he wrote the two volume definitive biography of Lincoln, “Abraham Lincoln, a Biography.” Although this is a condensation by Nicolay of that biography, it is still a sizable work and a fairly thorough treatment of the life of the 16th president of the United States.
19 Episodes
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Avg Length 27m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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The writer is as earnest in recommending ladies who belong to the higher class of settlers to cultivate all the mental resources of a superior education, as she is to induce them to discard all irrational and artificial wants and mere useless pursuits. She would willingly direct their attention to the natural history and botany of this new country, in which they will find a never-failing source of amusement and instruction, at once enlightening and elevating the mind, and serving to fill up the void left by the absence of those lighter feminine accomplishments, the practice of which are necessarily superseded by imperative domestic duties. To the person who is capable of looking abroad into the beauties of nature, and adoring the Creator through his glorious works, are opened stores of unmixed pleasure, which will not permit her to be dull or unhappy in the loneliest part of our Western Wilderness. The writer of these pages speaks from experience, and would be pleased to find that the simple sources from which she has herself drawn pleasure, have cheered the solitude of future female sojourners in the backwoods of Canada.
Dirt Nap City is the podcast about interesting dead people. In each episode, Alex and Kelly dive into the life of a famous person that you have probably heard of, but probably don't know much about. Our stories are about actors, entrepreneurs, politicians, musicians, inventors, and more! The show is funny and light hearted, but also informative and educational. You will definitely learn something new and probably have some laughs along the way. Everyone will eventually move to Dirt Nap City, so why not go ahead and meet the neighbors?
If you really love hearing stories from Dirt Nap City, please consider supporting us on Patreon. Here's the link: https://www.patreon.com/DirtNapCityPodcast
If you have comments about the show or suggestions on who we should cover, please email us at [email protected] - we really appreciate you listening!
If you really love hearing stories from Dirt Nap City, please consider supporting us on Patreon. Here's the link: https://www.patreon.com/DirtNapCityPodcast
If you have comments about the show or suggestions on who we should cover, please email us at [email protected] - we really appreciate you listening!
Who Was She?
New
This season is about Lidia Zamenhof, an Esperantist, and Baha'i who traveled the world to teach languages in an effort to bring unity to humankind.
Subscribe and learn about this amazing woman who traveled through three continents in an effort to bring unity through the power of language. You can also found more information on our Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest @whowasshepodcast
Learn more about your host, Tara Jabbari: https://about.me/tarajabbari
Get bonus content on PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This is a storytelling venture, telling embellished stories of real people and events blurring the line between fact and fiction. Written by Gerard Ryan
25 Episodes
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Avg Length 25m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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“...if I should talk to a stenographer two hours a day for a hundred years, I should still never be able to set down a tenth part of the things which have interested me in my lifetime.” The words of Mark Twain in his introduction to Chapters from my Autobiography provide a tantalizing glimpse of what is in store for the reader! Mark Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens was still working on his reminiscences when he died in 1910. This book is really only a portion of the complete work. The interesting part of his autobiography is that the first volume of 700 odd pages was published exactly 100 years after his death, in 2010 by the University of California in keeping with his last will and testament. It achieved wild popular success. This made Twain the only best seller writer to be famous in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries! Twain also intended that his autobiography should serve as a model for future writers because of its unique form and method. He sought to constantly bring the past and present face to face so that the resultant sparks would light a fire of interest in his readers. With this aim in mind, the book is structured in an extremely loose chronological order, switching back and forth in time, relating episodes that are not connected sequentially with each other yet remaining wonderfully interesting, like a colorful mosaic of experiences. Which is how Twain felt life should be portrayed. Brimming with Twain's own brand of irreverent humor, the book begins with an attempt to trace his ancestors, the Clemenses, to Civil War England. He plunges next into a hilarious account of his early experiences as an author in New York in 1867 and then leaps into a wonderfully evocative retelling of his childhood in Hannibal, Missouri in 1849, on the banks of the Mississippi. These experiences formed the basis of his immortal Tom Sawyer/ Huckleberry Finn books. Further chapters describe meeting writers like Bret Harte, Robert Louis Stevenson and others. Twain himself had an extremely eventful and colorful life. He worked variously as a newspaper hack, silver miner, inventor, printer's apprentice, steamboat pilot and typesetter. He was also a famous anti-war thinker, pacifist, vegetarian and anti-imperialist. He used humor and satire effectively to convey his ideas in novels, plays and historical fiction. Chapters from my Autobiography is a delightful jumble of recollections. Some of them are poignant and moving like the chapter that deals with the death of his daughter Susy while others are memorable like the brilliant portrait of his older brother Orion. For Mark Twain enthusiasts, humor fans and anyone who simply loves a great read, Chapters from an Autobiography is a great read.
4 Episodes
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Avg Length 16m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Como implica el título, esta es una biografía de Doña Juana, conocida como Juana la Loca, hija de Fernando II de Aragón e Isabel I de Castilla, los Reyes Católicos.As the title implies, this is a biography of Doña Juana, known as Juana the Mad, daughter of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabel I of Castile, the Catholic Monarchs.
19 Episodes
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Avg Length 17m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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It need hardly be said that the woman by whom these letter were written had no thought that they would be read by anyone but the person to whom they were addressed. But a request, conveyed under circumstances which the writer herself would have regarded as all-commanding, urges that they should now be given to the world; and, so far as is possible with a due regard to the claims of privacy, what is here printed presents the letters as they were first written in their complete form and sequence. From book explaination
Can’t sleep? Listen to inspiring guest discussions on self-reflection and the creativity and passions that anchor them.
12 Episodes
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Avg Length 30m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Tutored by Aristotle, compelled to ascend the throne at the age of 20 when his illustrious father was assassinated, driven by a passion for expanding the borders of his tiny kingdom, Alexander of Macedon was one of the most towering figures of ancient history. He is brought to vivid life in this gripping volume by the American children's writer Jacob Abbott. In his short but eventful life, the young Macedonian king went on to rule over one of the most powerful and largest empires in the ancient world, breaking the hegemony of the powerful Persian dynasty of Darius. Alexander's sudden death in Babylon is one of the enduring mysteries of history. With him ended the glorious empire he had created, which stretched from the Adriatic in Europe to the Indus River on the Indian subcontinent. Jacob Abbott's book meant for young readers portrays Alexander as a military genius, endowed with remarkable intelligence, physical beauty and courage. Some of the early incidents in his life as when he tames a wild and vicious horse are described in compelling terms. Alexander's youth, his father's insistence on making him a regent for Macedonia when he was just 16 and his experiences on military campaigns with his father in Boeotia, where he displayed remarkable qualities of coolness, courage and wisdom are strikingly portrayed. Philip's separation from his wife, Olympia, Alexander's mother is also described and Abbott traces some of Alexander's less endearing qualities to this imperious queen. His haughtiness, pride and short temper which sometimes led him to be stubborn, envy and resentment of his father's powerful conquests are described as well, giving us an objective and well rounded picture of the young hero. Alexander's glorious reign and his remarkable military campaigns, the historic crossing of the Hellespont, his defeat of Darius and the conquest of territories in Asia Minor, Tyre and Egypt are the stuff of legends. At twenty-six he was the greatest ruler the ancient world had ever seen, but he had already begun to descend into a life of debauchery. His army commanders began to rebel and then followed a bloody trail of murders and assassinations. Alexander's final days are also captured in the closing chapters of this riveting book. Jacob Abbott brings all his skills as a historian and children's writer to this retelling of the life of one of the most unforgettable figures in history that appeals to both young and older readers.
11 Episodes
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Avg Length 34m
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Latest episode 7 months ago
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Special thanks to the Mandela Foundation. To find out more about the life of Nelson Mandela, visit NelsonMandela.org.
In 1993, after 27 years of imprisonment, Nelson Mandela sat down with ghostwriter Richard Stengel to begin working on Long Walk to Freedom, a critically acclaimed memoir that would become a best seller around the globe.
Mandela: The Lost Tapes reveals never-before-heard audio from Stengel’s interviews with the Nobel Prize winner, freedom fighter, and former South African president. Hours of rare recordings detail the turning points of Mandela’s life, key moments that shaped a revolution and the man who was to bring freedom to his nation.
In this Audible Original, Stengel relives his intimate chats with Mandela, attempting to answer the questions ‘What made Nelson Mandela who he is?’ and ‘How can the rest of us be more like him?’
In Stengel’s own words: “It’s partly the story about how Mandela and I wrote his memoir Long Walk to Freedom. But much more than that, it’s a story about our unusual friendship, my struggle to learn who Mandela really was, and my quest to understand what makes a human being great.”
Mandela: The Lost Tapes provides an intimate look at who Nelson Mandela was beyond his carefully curated public persona. Through Mandela’s own words, he reveals his extraordinary journey to becoming one of the greatest leaders in modern history.
The path to success is rarely a straight line. And the path to success as a creative professional? That line tends to be especially squiggly. In the new series, Journey of an Artist, singer-songwriter and poet, Emmeline, talks to creatives from all walks of life about their passions, their paths, and the persistence they’ve employed to reach a point of professional and personal fulfillment. Emmeline sits down with voice actors, poets, dancers, musicians, graphic designers, stylists, and more to discuss the decisions they’ve made, the challenges they’ve faced, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and where they’d like their vision to take them next. She also reinforces the belief that—with love, grit, perseverance, and an abundance of joy—anything is possible.You can live the life you want, the life that brings you the most joy, and Emmeline's guests are living proof. Episodes air every Sunday night at 5 PM CST on Deep Ellum Radio. Then, each episode is available as a podcast the very next day! For behind-the-scenes information and insights, follow Emmeline on Instagram at @EmmelineMusic.
29 Episodes
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Avg Length 28m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Anyone who has ever been on a package tour with a group of strangers who soon become friends, and passed time swapping stories with them, would instantly identify with this timeless classic of English literature. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer recounts twenty different stories recounted by a diverse group of pilgrims who gather at The Tabard Inn in Southwark, near London, before setting out for the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury. The Host of the inn proposes that they entertain themselves by telling stories along the route and the one who tells the best tale would win a prize – a meal at Bailey's tavern, sponsored by the losers. Lots are drawn and the stories and the journey begin... Chaucer, who lived in medieval England during an eventful period in English history, is known as the Father of English Literature. As the first acknowledged poet in English, Chaucer was a polymath who had wide ranging interests in astronomy, alchemy, philosophy and literature. He was a courtier and civil servant in the 14th century, whose life is surprisingly well-documented for those times. A confidante and mentor to many royal children, Chaucer wrote the Canterbury Tales after his retirement, somewhere between 1380-90. It was written in verse form and in Middle English in the original, which would be difficult for modern readers to decipher easily. However, excellent translations have now made the text accessible to us. What sets The Canterbury Tales apart from other works during the period is that Chaucer preferred to use English rather than Latin which was considered to be the language of sophistication. This one decision made all the difference as people all over England soon began to use their native tongue to express themselves in prose and poetry. This is perhaps the first “road trip” genre of writing in English and is replete with wonderful, ironic, sharp and witty descriptions of the characters and Chaucer's unerring eye for details allows the reader to instantly visualize the people he's describing. The Knight, The Wife of Bath, The Prioress and The Miller are some of the colorful travelers. The book is an interesting document regarding history, social customs, the medieval concept of “courtly love,” the emphasis on companionship and cooperation while traveling, the role of the church and the prevailing corruption and romantic ideals of the time. For both casual readers and those interested in the history of English literature, The Canterbury Tales is an invaluable mine of information.
30 Episodes
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Avg Length 9m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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Famous Men of Rome is a series of biographical sketches written for the purpose of making the study of history lively and interesting by giving insight into the men who lived during this time.
Nonfiction authors share compelling true stories & books with great ideas for living well. In addition to discussing captivating biographies & memoirs, these writers promote business & entrepreneurship, foster community-building, encourage health & wellness, strengthen home & family, and nurture personal development. Regardless of the genre, all the books we feature are insightful, inspiring, and uplifting. In the end, we save you time by curating long-standing classics, sleepers, and new releases. At Nonfiction4Life, we believe there's something for everyone!
53 Episodes
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Avg Length 28m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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One of the most prolific and multi-talented geniuses the world has ever seen, Thomas Alva Edison's life is indeed an inspiration for each new generation. Today we live in a world that would not have been possible if not for several of his important inventions – the electric light bulb, the motion picture camera, electric power distribution, the phonograph, and a host of other things that we take for granted today. In fact, he still holds the world record for the maximum number of patents, numbering 1093 in all! Edison – His Life and Inventions by Frank Lewis Dyer and Thomas Commerford Martin, published in 1910 was in fact a biography commissioned by Edison himself. Dyer was a patent attorney who worked for Edison, while Commerford was a technical magazine editor who published many of Edison's papers. There is consequently a great deal of focus on the technical aspects of his inventions and not so much on his personality and nature. However, as a chronological account of his life, the biography does full justice to its title. This brilliant scientist, businessman and inventor had in fact, practically no formal education. He actually went to school only for three months in his life. His mother provided support and motivation for the hearing-impaired child, who taught himself to read and discovered his love for science by reading books like Parker's The School of Natural Philosophy, etc. A notable feature of the book is that it was written in Edison's own lifetime and hence captures the feel of being very contemporary. There are many anecdotes and stories which the great man himself has contributed or has directly conveyed to the authors, hence the flavor is very authentic and realistic and conveys the excitement and thrill of the life and times of this master inventor. A great inspiration for all ages!
82 Episodes
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Avg Length 12m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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The semiautobiographical travel memoir records Twain’s, more or less, personal journey across the Wild West in search of adventure while exploring variable locations. Accompanying his brother on what becomes a trip of a lifetime, the young Samuel Clemens finds himself in many different vocational roles as he explores and observes the magnificence of the American West. Not refraining from the usual social commentary, Twain directs criticism on various social and moral issues which he approaches through his sly and witty style. Presented in a first person narration, Roughing It serves as an instrument allowing a momentary escape from modern society and the chance to experience the true nature of the Wild West, with images of mining, gold prospecting, and the grandeur of untouched wilderness. The novel begins with the young narrator travelling to Nevada to assist his brother Orion Clemens, who has been appointed to a government position, and is required to move west. Consequently, the narrator sets out on a stagecoach journey west, while depicting a time absent of modern luxuries and colorfully illustrates the rough course of travel in a frontier territory. Beginning in Missouri, the novel continues on through Salt Lake City, to Nevada, then San Francisco until finally reaching Hawaii. The vagrant and enthusiastic young man frequently jaunts off in search of adventure and excitement which bring about many mishaps. In addition, the narrator meets many diverse characters during his journey including miners, pioneers, Mormons, and Native Americans, of whom none are spared from his satirical depiction and classification. Structured in episodic stories, Twain brilliantly recounts stories from his daily travels with a generous supply of humor, anecdotes, tall tales and imagery. One of the highlights of the book is the evocative and vivid descriptive language Twain uses to animate the beauty of the American frontier in the 19th century. The travelogue not only provides entertainment with its humorous episodic adventures and exaggerated circumstances, but it also delivers an original historical insight with its use of allusions and first-hand experiences documented by the author.
206 Episodes
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Avg Length 51m
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Latest episode 3 years ago
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An examination of scientific inquiry through a discussion of the history and philosophy of the scientific endeavor.
14 Episodes
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Avg Length 29m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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These pages record some of the adventures of the First South Carolina Volunteers, the first slave regiment mustered into the service of the United States during the late civil war. It was, indeed, the first colored regiment of any kind so mustered, except a portion of the troops raised by Major-General Butler at New Orleans. These scarcely belonged to the same class, however, being recruited from the free colored population of that city, a comparatively self-reliant and educated race. (From the text)
22 Episodes
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Avg Length 21m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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A sailing memoir written by seaman and adventurer Joshua Slocum, who was the first person to sail around the world alone, documents his epic solo circumnavigation. An international best-seller, the book became a great influence and inspiration to travelers from each corner of the globe. Additionally, Slocum is an example that through determination, courage and hard work any dream can easily become a reality. Written in a modern and conversational tone, the autobiographical account begins with Slocum’s description of his hometown of Nova Scotia and its maritime history. He illustrates the town as a maritime province of Canada, where many vessels have been carved and built from widespread spruce commonly found in the area. The author then goes on to tell of his dedication and hard work invested in rebuilding an old sloop which he subsequently named Spray. It was this tiny boat that accompanied Slocum on his monumental single-man voyage. The journey began in April 1895, when the adventurer set sail from Boston and traveled to various locations around the world, exploring the local nature, culture and meeting many interesting people along the way. The author recounts his experience through a sequence of adventures, most eminent being his encounter with pirates, an attack by indigenous locals and perilous occurrences at sea. Holding most appeal in the book is the fact that the voyage took place in a time without the comfort and security of modern technology, which only intensifies the excitement and emphasizes the true danger faced by Slocum in the many unpredictable situations he finds himself in. Apart from being an exceptional mariner, Slocum is an equally talented narrator, as he depicts events which are not only entertaining to read, but also hold great historical and cultural significance considering the time of his journey. Well written and engaging to the very last page, Sailing Alone Around the World is one of the finest examples of travel literature ever written.
The podcast where two women tell you about two other women you should know about. No cups involved.
77 Episodes
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Avg Length 24m
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Latest episode 2 years ago
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Let's Talk About Chef is a podcast that brings you the stories of the history, chefs and food from around the world. Hosted by Brian Clarke.
3 Episodes
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Avg Length 19m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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This autobiographical work describes the author’s harrowing experience caught on a small drifting piece of ice, while crossing a frozen bay by dog team on the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland.
13 Episodes
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Avg Length 29m
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Latest episode 6 months ago
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There are certain names which are familiar, as names, to all mankind; and every person who seeks for any degree of mental cultivation, feels desirous of informing himself of the leading outlines of their history, that he may know, in brief, what it was in their characters or their doings which has given them so widely-extended a fame. Consequently, great historical names alone are selected; and it has been the writer's aim to present the prominent and leading traits in their characters, and all the important events in their lives, in a bold and free manner, and yet in the plain and simple language which is so obviously required in works which aim at permanent and practical usefulness. This volume is dedicated to Hannibal.