Who Was Coco Chanel Really? Her Life Story, Unvarnished, Episode 600
Born poor in rural France, Coco Chanel rewrote both fashion history and her own biography. Episode 600 tells her real story — the brilliant parts, the ugly parts, and everything in between.
Joan of Arc: The Real Woman Behind 20,000 Statues, Episode 598
She was never a shepherdess. She broke an arranged engagement at 13, convinced noblemen to take her to the French king, and led an army at 16. Joan of Arc died at 19, burned at the stake for wearing men's clothes. Listen to learn about the real woman behind the legend.
Road Tripping in Northern France: From Flander's Fields to Agincourt, Episode 597
Most visitors skip northern France entirely. Craig Anderson didn't, and he found WWII beaches, medieval battlefields, excellent seafood, and almost no American tourists. From Dunkirk to the Agincourt site, this region rewards curious travelers — and a rental car at 30 euros a day makes it surprisingly easy to explore.
Viollet-le-Duc: The Self-Taught Architect Who Shaped France's Medieval Landmarks, Episode 596
Eugène Viollet-le-Duc never had an architecture degree, but he restored Notre-Dame, Carcassonne, and dozens of France's most visited medieval monuments — and reinvented most of them along the way. We look at what he actually added, the one project that got completely torn down a century later, and the quiet, controversial end to a very loud career.
The Guédelon Project: A Modern Take on Medieval Construction, Episode 588
Step back in time with Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin as they explore the Guédelon Project, where a medieval castle is being built using only 13th-century techniques. Discover the history, challenges, and educational aspects of this unique project. Listen now to learn more about this fascinating journey into the past.
Louise Michel: The Fearless Revolutionary of the Paris Commune, Episode 584
Paris, 1871: A starving city, a fallen government, and a revolution led by a fearless schoolteacher-turned-anarchist. Join Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin as they uncover the fiery life of Louise Michel—from barricades to exile—and the Paris Commune’s explosive legacy. History like you’ve never heard it!
Charles de Gaulle: The Man Who Saved France and Shaped Modern Europe, Episode 576
Charles de Gaulle: The Man Who Defied Defeat – Join Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin as they unpack the fiery life of France’s most iconic leader. From WWII resistance to reshaping modern France, his story is one of stubborn vision and unshakable patriotism. Plus: What’s changing for New Year’s Eve in Paris 2025? Listen now to explore history—and plan your next trip!
Van Gogh’s Tragic Genius: The Untold Story of His Life in France, Episode 572
Dive into the tragic, brilliant life of Vincent van Gogh with Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin. Discover his struggles, his masterpieces, and the heartbreaking story behind his iconic art. A must-listen for art lovers and dreamers alike.
Marquis de Lafayette: Life and Historical Impact, Episode 548
Discover the remarkable life of the Marquis de Lafayette—French noble, American Revolutionary War hero, and advocate for human rights. In this episode, Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin explore his legacy and suggest three historic sites in France where you can follow in his footsteps. A must for history lovers!
Simone de Beauvoir: Life, Legacy, and Controversies, Episode 528
Discover the life and legacy of Simone de Beauvoir, a groundbreaking feminist thinker and writer who challenged societal norms.