PONTIFACTS

140. Gregory V

What happens when a very young emperor appoints his very cool, slightly older cousin to be Pope? Find out with Gregory V! In his episode, we discuss antipopes, excommunications, and the foibles of youth. 
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141. Sylvester II

Pope Sylvester was one of the most brilliant minds of the entire medieval era - but was this incredible skill the result of a deal with the devil? 
In his episode we discuss the Golden Age of Al-Andalus, the Investiture Controversy, and a very unusual path to becoming pope. 
 
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Bonus: The Myths of Sylvester II

We are sticking with Sylvester II a little longer to cover all the wild myths and legends that surround this most interesting pope. In this episode, we discuss the Devil, demons, necromancy, sorcery, prophesies, buried treasure, incorrupt bodies, vampires and more! 
 
And THANK YOU for one million downloads!!
 
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Bonus: The Maths of Sylvester II

You've had the myths, now its time for the maths! In this episode, Bry is joined by Quinn and Umberto, certified math wizards to discuss the impact of Gerbert of Aurillac's mathematical contributions. We'll discuss the horror of calculating with Roman numerals, the introduction of Hindu-Arabic numbers, the abacus, the astrolabe, the armillary sphere, and more! 
Listen to: Nobelesse Oblige: https://nobelesseoblige.buzzsprout.com/
So You Think You Can Rule Persia? https://soyouthinkyoucanrulepersia.wordpress.com/
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142. John XVII

Will Pope Silver Rat benefit from the abundance of sources we saw last week? Alas, even his sons did not bother to write about him! In his episode we discuss the mission of Bruno of Querfurt, an update on the numbering of Pope Johns, and a slightly spoilery discussion of the latest season of From. 
 
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Bonus: #Popewatch and the Portals

It's time for a long due #Popewatch!!
If you've seen some alarming headlines about Pope Francis "opening portals in an unprecedented ritual" or "livestreaming the opening of the Tomb of Lucifer", we've got you covered. 
Thank you for another amazing year of Pontifacts, see you in 2025! 
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143. John XVIII

Another John! This time with the most unfortunate nickname we have ever given, and its not even entirely our fault. In his episode, we'll discuss the shuffling of German diocese, being a nice guy, and a shocking reason to bring up the diptychs!!
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144. Sergius IV

You've had Pope John ("Drizzly") Cock, are you now ready for Peter Pigsnout?In his episode, we discuss his daring assassination plot, which did not happen, his kicking off of the Great Schism, which did not happen, and his call for the First Crusade... which also did not happen. 
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Bonus: Intelligent Speech 2024 PontiVROOM!

In anticipation of Intelligent Speech 2025 happening THIS WEEKEND, we're releasing our 2024 presentation! The 2024 theme was Contingencies, and we discussed the history of the Popemobile, and how it has changed to meet the various needs of different pontiffs. 
There is still time to join us for Intelligent Speech 2025: Deception, where we will be talking about the Knights Templar, and the origins of the Friday the 13th myths. Tickets are available at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/ and you will get a discount on your ticket if you use code PONTIFACTS at checkout. 

145. Benedict VIII

Benedict VIII marks the (second) beginning of the "Tusculan Papacy", but will he take after his Pornocracy predecessors? In his episode, we discuss a potential precedent set, Norman alliances, Saracen invasions, and the Truce of God. 
 
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146. John XIX

Pope John XIX, the "bilious barnacle" assumes the papacy after his brother's death, but sadly, will bring none of his pizzaz. In his episode, we discuss bribery, greed, renegging on promises and changing ones mind... and indulgences!!!!
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147. Benedict IX

Are you ready for the "Demon from Hell" Pope, who broke all of the rules, including ours?!In his episode, we discuss so many crimes, exiles, attempted murders, and oddly placed omens... 

Crossover: The Agony and the Ecstasy with Biopic: A Podcast Story

This week, we were invited by the delightful Sara and Rena from Biopic: A Podcast Story to watch and discuss the 1965 classic, The Agony and the Ecstasy! Join us for a foray into bad actors, bad acting, great discussion, and Bry's favourite time period! 
Listen to Biopic: A Podcast Story:https://open.spotify.com/show/1qaBKP7ho2WPqRXRQjqLJZ 

148. Sylvester III

So Benedict IX has been forced out of Rome and deposed, and a new pope is needed! In steps Sylvester III. Can he turn things around? In his episode, we discuss the most bigamous diocese, and trying your luck a little too far. 
 
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149. Benedict IX Part 2

And he's back! ...or is he? In his episode, we discuss unfortunate PontiFACTS, deal with the rabble rabble, and ask ourselves, how do we get back here? Remember, you can sign up for our patreon now, and help us reach our goal of $40 million dollars to buy the papacy! 
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Bonus: Pope Francis Obituary

Today, Pope Francis died at the age of 88. In this brief obituary, we reflect on the life and papacy of Pope Francis, briefly discuss what is to come in terms of funeral and conclave, and express our appreciation.

Bonus: How a Conclave Works with Popeular History

Bry and Gregg (Popeular History and Cardinal Numbers) discuss the regulations, procedure and protocol surrounding a conclave. Please note this was recorded during Francis's illness, before his death and before the date for the conclave has been set. 
 
Outro song credit to Ben Jacobs!

Bonus: Papal Funerals

Bry and Fry discuss the historic origins and protocols for papal funerals, and explore how Pope Francis's funeral will break with tradition. 
(Pope Francis's funeral has been set for Saturday, April 26th at 10am in St Peter's Square.)