Ladies of Lore
Ladies of Lore is a podcast dedicated to the women of mythology and folklore, including goddesses, monsters, queens, witches, and seers. Each episode traces these figures from their earliest origins through their most famous stories, exploring how they change over time and are shaped by the cultures retelling them. The podcast examines how fear, power, desire, and control transformed women into monsters, muses, or moral warnings, and what those transformations reveal about the societies doing the telling. From ancient myth to modern pop culture, it looks at where these women began, how they've been rewritten, and why they still matter now.
Episodes
Talking Aphrodite with Jennifer Saint
This week on Ladies of Lore, I’m joined by #1 bestselling author Jennifer Saint to discuss her latest novel, This Immortal Heart, a VERY beautiful reimagining of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.We sat down and talked all about the Aphrodite behind the familiar image of beauty and romance, examining her power, complexity, and enduring influence across mythology. We discuss her legendary relati
The Women of Ancient Rome ft. The Lost Roman Heroes
This week I sat down with Matthew and Matteo, hosts of The Lost Roman Heroes podcast, to talk about 3 incredible women from Ancient Rome. You can find The Lost Roman Heroes here: https://lostromanheroes.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lost-roman-heroes/id1702422822https://open.spotify.com/show/6fl1eyQcV7OygaNooun66Qhttps://www.instagram.com/lostromanheroesSupport the showJoin the Patreon!
I, Medusa: A Conversation with Ayana Gray
Today I am joined by New York Times best selling author Ayana Gray to talk about her book I, Medusa and the power of reclaiming one of the mythology's most well known women. Ayana is the author of the bestselling Beasts of Prey series, known for its richly imagined worlds and powerful young heroines shaped by myth and folklore. Her latest novel, I Medusa, turns to Greek Mytholgoy to retell th
History Daily: Rosa Parks Makes a Stand + The Death of Queen Elizabeth I
I’m delighted to be featured as part of History Daily’s Saturday Matinee series. To celebrate, today I’m sharing a special double feature from History Daily, hosted by Lindsay Graham. Known for its engaging, research-driven storytelling, the show brings pivotal moments from world history vividly to life in an accessible and compelling way.In this featured episode, we explore Rosa Parks’ historic a
Deirdre: The Girl Destined for Sorrow
Before she ever fell in love, Deirdre was promised to a king. Before she ever made a choice, her fate had already been written. Known as Deirdre of the Sorrows, her story is one of prophecy, exile and doomed love. This week we jump back into the Ulster Cycle to hear her story and learn about its lasting impact, explore the warrior society that shaped her fate, and trace the lasting cultural impact
Kali: Devourer of Illusion
Kali is one of the most complex and powerful figures in global mythology. In this we follow the evolution of Kali, all the way from her origins in ancient Sanskrit texts to her role as a liberating force in Tantric cosmology, colonial resistance, feminist iconography, and modern pop culture.We explore her mythology, the duality of being both terrifying and maternal and her radical transformation
Heroines of History: Catherine of Aragon
Happy New Year! I hope you all had a lovely festive break and are feeling ready to take on 2026! I entered the new year with a bad cold which is not what you want to hear on the podcast. My loss is your gain though, and I am gifting you an episode of the Patreon Exclusive series 'Heroines of History', this one is all about Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII. Here's a
Our Lady of Guadalupe: A Patreon Special
This is a special episode originally created as a Patreon exclusive as part of the ongoing 'Ladies of Advent' series.In this opening episode of 'Ladies of Advent' we start with Our Lady of Guadalupe. The divine mother who appeared in 1531 on a cold hilltop outside of Mexico City. She would go on to become a sacred figure in Catholic devotion as well as a symbol of strength, ide
Florence & The Machine’s Everybody Scream: The Witchcraft of Womanhood
Trigger Warning: Pregnancy LossIn this episode, we drink deep and dive in to the world of Florence & The Machine’s Everybody Scream. An album that fuses mythology, witchcraft, trauma, and feminine power. We explore how Florence Welch channels the voices of witches, mystics, monsters and takes us on a pilgrimage through grief and transformation, through the scream buried in every woman’s throat
The Weavers of Fate
It has been a while, I missed you! Here's a little mini episode for you all about the women who weave the fate of the world and all who live in it. Excited to be back and ready to start bringing you some more amazing stories of wonderful women. Support the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFollow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok - @ladiesofloreJoin t
Corn Mothers and Grain Goddesses: Women of the Harvest
I'm back! I took some time off to have a birthday, but I am back and ready to talk about some more amazing women! In light of the changing of the seasons, this week we are talking about women of the harvest from across the world! We're talking Demeter, Ceres, Pachamama, Zemyna and more. Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://mythlok.com/pachamama/https://basketmakersassociation.or
Signs, Seals and Stories: The Mythology of Logos
To celebrate our brand new look, this week we're talking all things logos. We explore the history of the word itself and how logos have transformed through time from Mesopotamia through to the Industrial revolution and the shoes we now wear on our feet. We also hear from Clara, the amazing artist behind the new Ladies of Lore Logo and listen to her explain her research and process for creatin
Snow White Part 2: Grimm Tales, Disney Dreams (ft Missy)
Here is part 2 of our exploration into Snow White with the amazing Missy. This week we are covering the Grimm version of the tale, how Snow White made Disney what it is today and where she can be found in modern media and literature. Please show Missy some love over at:https://www.tumblr.com/allgirlsareprincesseshttps://whattheforce.ca/Support the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFo
Snow White Part 1: Mirrors Across Cultures (ft Missy)
Thank you for 1 whole year of Ladies of Lore! I appreciate every one of youSnow White is so much more than just a Grimm Brothers fairy tale. It's a story that has truly traveled across continents and centuries. In this episode, we explore global variations of the Snow White narrative with special guest, Missy. Support the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFollow me on Bluesky -
Faeries: The Musical (ft. RPG Major)
This week the gang from RPG Major are back and this time ready to sing to you all about faeries. Come and listen to the origins, transformations and modern interpretations of Faeries with the little added spice of some improvised music. Please check out RPG Major over at https://www.rpgmajor.com/ and if you enjoy their content please consider signing up over at https://www.patreon.com/c/RPGMajor/p
Cinderella: Rising from the Ashes
In this episode, we're tracing Cinderella from her ancient, ash-covered origins in global oral folklore to her bejeweled transformation through centuries of retellings. We'll explore how her story evolved across cultures, how Disney’s 1950 film rescued the studio from financial ruin, and how the Cinderella archetype continues to reinvent itself in modern media and pop culture.For enquiri
Queer Women of Mythology
From goddesses who loved women to warrior queens who defied gender norms, this episode celebrates the queer women of mythology. This week we're unearthing sapphic stories and discussing the divine queerness that’s always been part of our history and mythology. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comHelp in LA: https://lapublicpress.org/2025/06/la-protest-resources-ice/https:/
Atabey: The Cosmic Mother of the Caribbean
Atabey, the Taino Mother of creation, once shaped land, sea, and sky. In this episode, we explore her as life-giver and cosmic force—and trace how her image shifted through colonisation, erasure, and survival. From sacred caves to modern memory, we follow the story of a goddess who endures.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: Taíno: Indigeno
Suffolk: Boudicca, Witches and Fairies, Oh My!
In the very first episode of Ladies of Lore on Tour, we'll step into the mists of East Anglia as we trace the footsteps of Boudicca, commune with the witches of Suffolk, explore fairy folklore, and unravel the mystery of the green children of Woolpit.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://www.nationalparks.uk/2024/09/30/discover-f
Schedule Update, Discord Server & Patreon News!
Super short update this week to give you the low down on the latest at Ladies of Lore. Biggest news is that the Patreon & Discord Server are both now live and you can access them here: www.patreon.com/LadiesOfLore Hope to see and chat to some of you there!For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comSupport the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFollow me on Bluesky - @
Freyja: The Goddess Who Wept Gold
In this episode, we journey through myth, memory, and modern magic to explore the powerful Norse goddess Freyja. From her ancient origins as a Vanir deity of love, fertility, death, and seiðr, to her medieval demonisation and Enlightenment dismissal, Freyja’s identity has evolved across centuries of cultural transformation. We trace how she was reimagined during the Romantic and nationalist 19th c
Circe: Weaving Her Own Fate
This week we will be taking a look at the transformation of one of mythology’s most misunderstood women: Circe. From Homer’s dangerous enchantress to a symbol of female power and self-authorship, we'll trace Circe’s evolution through ancient texts, centuries of retellings, and her feminist reclamation in today’s literature and culture. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comC
Sirens: The Musical (ft. RPG Major)
Join me for a very special episode of Ladies of Lore, featuring the incredibly talented cast of RPG Major, the improvised musical actual play podcast. Today we explore the Sirens, find out where they come from, hear their stories and learn about how they have changed through time to arrive in today's modern world. All while hearing some amazing improvised songs from RPG Major. For enquiries p
Pandora: A Jar of Hope
In this episode, we unravel the mystery of Pandora’s story, the true meaning of her jar, and the curious fate of hope. Was it a blessing, a trick, or something more? For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode:https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/G_1884-0807-1https://turkisharchaeonews.net/object/pithos-garden-troyhttps://www.britannica.c
Guinevere: Part 2 - Power, Agency and Patriarchy
TRIGGER WARNING - SEXUAL ASSAULT For centuries, Guinevere has been portrayed as a cautionary tale—the woman whose love affair with Lancelot shattered Camelot. But was she truly the villain of the story, or was she a victim of the patriarchal narratives that have shaped her legend? In this episode, we reclaim Guinevere’s agency, exploring her role as a powerful queen, a woman caught between duty an
Guinevere: Part 1 - Passion, Betrayal and the End of Camelot
For centuries, Guinevere has been portrayed as a cautionary tale—the woman whose love affair with Lancelot shattered Camelot. But was she truly the villain of the story, or was she a victim of the patriarchal narratives that have shaped her legend? In this episode, we reclaim Guinevere’s agency, exploring her role as a powerful queen, a woman caught between duty and desire. Join us in this first p
Patreon Announcement!
Here's a little announcement to let you all know what I've been cooking up. TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ladiesoflore?_t=ZN-8uPUK8OLW7C&_r=1Patreon will be live from 1st April at: patreon.com/LadiesofLoreSupport the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFollow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok - @ladiesofloreJoin the Discord - https://discord.g
Oshun: From Honey to Beyoncé’s Lemonade
From the golden waters of Yoruba mythology to the iconic visuals of Lemonade, Oshun has long been a symbol of love, femininity, and resilience. But how does this powerful goddess connect to Beyoncé’s music, imagery, and artistic evolution? In this episode, we explore the origins and transformations of the Orisha, Oshun and unpack the deep spiritual and cultural ties between Oshun and Queen Bey. Fo
Tiana: The True Story Behind Disney’s First Black Princess
Disney’s The Princess and the Frog introduced audiences to Tiana, a hardworking dreamer inspired by the real-life culinary legend Leah Chase. In this episode, we start with a brief look at the classic tale before diving into the remarkable story of Leah Chase, her journey from humble beginnings to becoming the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” her impact on New Orleans, and how her life helped shape Disn
Ala: Mother of the Earth
In this episode, we explore Ala, the powerful Earth Goddess of Igbo mythology. As the guardian of fertility, morality, and the afterlife, Ala plays a central role in Igbo spirituality. Join us as we uncover her significance, sacred shrines, and lasting influence on Igbo traditions.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool stuff mentioned in this episode:https://phjhds.com/wp-con
Mami Wata: Between Waves and Worlds
I am so sorry for the microphone quality not being amazing this episode! Your girl was riding the struggle bus with it this week. Thank you for listening nonetheless! I'm really excited to be highlighting Black mythology all throughout February, this week we're kicking it off by diving into the water and learning all about Mami Wata, the African water deity known for her beauty, generosi
Aswang: Unmasking the Night Terror
Take a step into the spooky unknown and learn all about the creatures that strike fear into the Philippines, The Aswang.We'll discover some of the many forms of the Aswang, where they came from and how these creatures have endured throughout the ages, adapting to the changing social and political landscape of their homeland.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Me
Belle: More Than a Provincial Life
In this episode, we dive into the evolution of Belle, the beloved heroine from Beauty and the Beast. From Roman influence, her origins in 18th-century fairy tales to her portrayal in Disney’s iconic animation and live-action adaptations, we explore how Belle has remained a symbol of curiosity, courage, and compassion. Discover how her character has adapted to reflect changing cultural values, insp
Jezebel: Power, Politics and Prophecy
We're back with another bad girl of the Bible this week, Jezbel! Is she misunderstood or was she just a bit power hungry and immoral? Come and find out! For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode https://www.gutenberg.org/files/9660/9660-h/9660-h.htmhttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Jezebel-queen-of-Israelhttps://jwa.org/encyclopedia/articl
Amaterasu: Radiant Goddess of the Sun
Come and learn all about Amaterasu, the fascinating Japanese Shinto Goddess of the sun. Learn about where she came from and hear tales of her quite dramatic sibling rivalries. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Amaterasuhttps://mythopedia.com/topics/amaterasuhttps://www.nippon.com/en/japan-topics/g00748/ama
Meet the Ladies of Christmas Folklore
Come and find out all about the amazing women of yuletide mythology and folklore in this special festive episode! For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/does-mrs-claus-have-a-life-of-her-ownhttps://daily.jstor.org/santa-and-mrs-claus-and-the-christmas-war-of-the-sexes/http://museumsonthegreen.org/wp-conten
The Little Mermaid: Dreams Drowned in Reality
If you thought you knew The Little Mermaid, think again. In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Ariel, we will do a deep dive in to the mind of Hans Christian Andersen, the creator of the original tale, discuss the Disneyfication of The Little Mermaid and examine where she can still be found in modern pop culture. Cool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://rictornorton.co.uk/
Mulan: The Legacy of China’s Brave Daughter
In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Mulan, we will read the original Chinese ballad, discuss the Disneyfication of Mulan and examine where she can still be found in modern pop culture. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comCool Stuff Mentioned In This Episode: https://classicalpoets.org/2018/09/23/the-ballad-of-mulan-a-rhyming-translation/https://mulanbook.c
Sleeping Beauty: Twisted Roots of an Iconic Tale
In this episode, we'll uncover the true story behind Sleeping Beauty, a tale far darker and more complex than the enchanted slumber we know today. From ancient myths of cursed maidens to the harrowing origins in folklore, we'll explore how this story evolved through centuries of oral tradition, literature, and cultural transformation. Join us as we peel back the layers of this timeless
Giulia Tofana: Poison The Men
If you had the recipe to a highly effective, undetectable poison, how would you use it? To poison the men of course. Check out 2Lives - https://www.2lives.org/Cool stuff mentioned this episode: https://aspectsofhistory.com/giulia-tofana-power-poison/https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/giulia-tofana-the-italian-serial-poisoner-who-became-a-legendSupport the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLo
Morgan le Fay: Heroine or Villainess of the Round Table?
Come and jump into Arthurian Legend and find out all about Arthur's half-sister, Morgan le Fay. Was she truly evil or was she just a girl trying to hold her own in a world of knights and wizards? Cool stuff mentioned in this episode: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Morgan-le-Fayhttps://kingarthursknights.com/arthurian-characters/morgan-le-fay/https://theconversation.com/morgan-le-fay-how-art
Erzulie: Divine Feminine in Vodou
Come and explore the world of the Erzulie, divine feminine figures in Haitian Vodou. Cool stuff I mentioned in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@ChroniclesofaZoehttps://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/collections/world-cultures/africa/vodouflagsSupport the showJoin the Patreon! - patreon.com/LadiesofLoreFollow me on Bluesky - @ladiesoflore.bsky.social Follow me on TikTok - @ladiesofloreJoin the D
Kuwazu Nyobo: The Dark Side of Japanese Folklore
Come with me to Japan to explore the terrifying Kuwazu Nyobo, the silent wife with the mouth in the back of her head. Cool Stuff I Mentioned In This Episodehttps://electricliterature.com/female-ghosts-and-spirits-from-japanese-folklore-ranked/https://electricliterature.com/female-ghosts-and-spirits-from-japanese-folklore-ranked/https://www.iromegane.com/post/japanese-mythology-marriage-between-hum
Isis: The Enchantress Who Resurrected a God
Today's episode is all about Isis, the powerful mother figure who resurrected her husband and built a following (and a phallus) that transcended borders.Cool stuff I mentioned in this episode: https://medium.com/minneapolis-institute-of-art/ancient-egypt-and-the-mystery-of-the-missing-phallus-97db0103ecdchttps://www.eoht.info/page/Phallus%20of%20Osirishttps://www.britannica.com/topic/ancient-
Lilith: Seductress, Scapegoat, or Survivor?
Today's episode is all about Lilith, the first lady of the garden of Eden, demoness, seductress and feminist icon. Come and find out all about her origins, her departure from garden of Eden, her transformation into the infant slaying demon, and reclamation as a feminist symbol of the power of feminine sexuality.Head on over to 2lives for some more great podcasting! https://www.2lives.org Cool
Hel: Keeper of Souls
Today's episode is all about Hel, the Norse ruler of the underworld and Cate Blanchett lookalike! Come and find out all about her origins, her place in Norse Cosmology and where you might find her in modern culture. Cool Stuff I mentioned in this episode: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hel-Norse-deityhttps://norse-mythology.org/cosmology/the-nine-worlds/helheim/https://skjalden.com/hel/Supp
Yennenga: Breaking Barriers, Building Dynasties
Today’s episode is all about Yennenga, the warrior princess who broke tradition and founded a dynasty! Come and find out all about this amazing woman of mythology who's impact has truly altered history.Cool stuff I mentioned in this episode:https://www.tourhq.com/article/a-travel-guide-to-burkina-faso-the-land-of-honest-peoplehttps://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/976/cpsprodpb/160D/production/_121254
A Message For You!
So sorry for my last minute no show this week! But I promise I'll be back next week with a super fascinating episode about a badass woman of mythology.Please let me know if there is anything you'd like me to feature in upcoming episodes! I love hearing your feedback. Thank you all SO much for the support! Can't wait to talk to you all next week.Support the showJoin the Patreon! - pa
Harpies: Furious and Fearsome
Today’s episode is all about Harpies, the furious and fearsome winged women of Ancient Greek Mythology! Come and find out all about these terrifying creatures and see how their famous reputation has changed and evolved over time.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.com Cool stuff I mentioned in this episode: https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Harpyhttps://www.theoi.com/Pont
Inanna: Love, War and Honey Cheese
In this episode we'll explore the fierce, fascinating and fabulous Sumerian Goddess, Inanna. The Queen of Heaven and of getting her own back.Come and learn all about her origins, her impact on other ancient cultures and her enduring legacy as both a trans ally and feminist icon. For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comSome of the cool stuff mentioned in this episode:https://ww
The Morrigan: A Triple Threat
In this episode we'll embark on a captivating journey into the origins and legends of The Morrigan, the formidable Irish goddess of war, fate, and sovereignty. Come along as we unravel the mysteries surrounding this powerful deity who is still worshipped even to this day.For enquiries please email ladiesoflorepodcast@gmail.comAre you into History and Jewellery?Check out @artbykerrie on Tiktok
La Llorona: Spirit of Grief
In this episode, we'll unveil the terrifyingly tragic tale of La Llorona, a figure who has haunted Latin America for centuries. Known as "The Weeping Woman," La Llorona is said to be the spirit of a mother doomed to wander the earth in search of her lost children. We’ll explore the origins of this eerie tale, its variations across different cultures, and the enduring impact it has h
Medusa: From Monster to Muse
Trigger Warning - Sexual Assault. In this episode, we delve into the captivating legend of Medusa, one of mythology's most misunderstood figures. Join me as we explore her origins, from her transformation into a Gorgon to a symbol of feminine rage. We'll unravel the layers of her story, examining how Medusa has been portrayed in ancient myths, art and modern culture. Was she truly a mons
Trailer: Welcome to Ladies of Lore
Hi! I'm India, an almost 30-year-old history enthusiast from Suffolk, UK. From a young age, my passion for History and Mythology has fueled my curiosity and imagination. I remember being captivated by the tales of heroes from Ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, but I always had one lingering question: where are the stories of the women?Determined to uncover and share these overlooked narratives,
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