Salacious History

On this week’s episode, we will explore the life and career of groundbreaking sexologist, Doctor Alfred Kinsey. Some hail him as the father of the sexual revolution, while others credit him for the so-called moral decay that plagued American society in the later 20th century. In Part I, we will discuss his childhood, education, and...

We’re taking a walk down the aisle for our first “Sex & Marriage” themed episode! Today we are learning about Sex & Marriage in the Tudor Period. When and why did people get married? How was marriage different for royals versus poorer citizens? And why did the church have so much influence over everyone’s sex lives? Tune in to find out!

You guys, we’re doing our first episode covering a famous couple from history! The story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal’s marriage falls in the gray area between historical fact and romantic legend. By all accounts, they are one of the most celebrated royal couples of the 16th century, and their love resulted in the construction of one of the most recognizable structures in history: the Taj Mahal!

This week, Sarah recounts the occasion in 1963 when journalist Gloria Steinem went undercover as a Playboy Bunny at the famous New York City Playboy Club. Between the long hours, harsh demerit system, and sleazy clientele, it was an experience that Gloria would not soon forget. Gloria translated her Playboy Bunny experience into one of the most famous pieces of undercover journalism ever written. Grab your satin bunny ears and your 3-inch heels - it’s time for some rampant misogyny!

This week, Sarah explores the life of conqueror Genghis Khan, the man who has fathered more children than anyone else in history. We look into his tumultuous childhood, his scorched-Earth military tactics, and the genetic legacy he left behind. Disclaimer: this episode discusses rape and violence towards women - listener discretion is advised.

In our pilot episode, Sarah digs into the story behind one of the most beloved, and some would say the sexiest, Presidents of the United States: John F. Kennedy. She discusses JFK’s unfortunate male role models, the many women he seduced, and a series of burning questions: Why couldn’t he keep his pants on? Did his wife Jackie know what was happening? And how the HELL did the public not know about all of his indiscretions?

History is a lot dirtier than you think. Salacious History is a podcast that explores moments in history that were shaped by sex, romance, and people who were generally down to clown. Using sex and related topics as a jumping-off point, Sarah Duncan presents a cheeky yet factual glimpse into historical moments and figures that...