PONTIFACTS: Ranking the Popes - podcast cover

PONTIFACTS: Ranking the Popes

A light hearted, only slightly blasphemous papal history podcast, ranking the Popes from Peter to Leo XIV
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Episodes

Crossover: Battle Royale on French Saints for Christmas!

For this special Christmas crossover, we joined up with Battle Royale to talk about important French Saints, in all their grisly glory! Check out Battle Royale: https://battleroyale.buzzsprout.com/1804279?s=09 https://twitter.com/BattleRoyalePod Show description: The most wonderful time of the year was made even more wonderful by our first ever guests, Bry and Fry of the Pontifacts podcast, who rate all of the popes from Peter to Francis. Complemented as ever by the splendid humour of Fry and El...

Dec 21, 20211 hr 39 minEp. 142

106. Benedict III

Pope Benedict was the actual pope to follow Leo IV, not Pope Joan! In his episode, we discuss a dramatic and confusing antipapacy, why his Liber Pontificalis entry is often missing, complicated consequences of the Iconoclasm, and... astral dew. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Dec 13, 202148 minEp. 140

Why Pope Joan?

It's time to answer another important question – WHY Pope Joan? If she didn’t exist, what purpose does the legend of Pope Joan serve? In this episode, we discuss what Pope Joan represents about the church, popes, and women, and who she might have been created to attack. Note: In this episode, something went off-kilter with Bry's microphone! Please bear with us and our substandard audio quality. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast...

Nov 22, 202134 minEp. 139

Pope Joan

The secret has been revealed, and now its time for the whole of the Pope Joan mythos! In her episode, we discuss the origins of the legend, the arguments for and against her existence, possible 'hints' of Joan in art and architecture, and the ball touching chair - 'Testiculos habet, et bene pedentes!' Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Nov 08, 202149 minEp. 138

Johannes Anglicus

Pope Johannes has a secret. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Oct 25, 202124 minEp. 137

105. Leo IV

Pope Leo may have been a 'despiser of the self', but there are plenty of reasons for us to like him! In his episode, we discuss the fortification of Rome and Leonine City just in time for the Battle of Ostia, some very important disobedient clerics, a surprise Rexy appearance, and Raphael dicks. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Oct 11, 202141 minEp. 136

104. Sergius II

Pope Sergius "Hog's Mouth" was the most pure boy, but also a grumpy gouty man who faces one of the greatest losses in church history. In his episode, we discuss why popes aren't called Peter, what happens when you contend with an antipope and the Constitutio Romanum at once, what happens when God "sends pagans to avenge what Christians fail to amend", what happens when you leave your treasures outside, and all the blame we should bestow upon his brother. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www....

Sep 27, 202144 minEp. 135

103. Gregory IV

We're back with Gregory IV, an energetic but mild small dog man. In his episode, we discuss fights over Farfa, the protracted Frankish civil wars, world-changing events being blamed on women, and ruses for betrayal! Will Gregory be as frustrated with the Franks as Fry is? Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Sep 13, 202152 minEp. 134

Announcement: Hiatus

Pontifacts is going on a brief hiatus, due to surprise moves! We'll be back as soon as we possibly can - keep an eye on our social media for announcements as to when that will be. Thank you as always for your understanding and support!

Jun 24, 202145 secEp. 133

102. Valentine

Pope Valentine (not that Valentine) was very close with our last pope, which lead to serious confusion about what exactly their relationship was. In his episode, we discuss his pre-papal status, the confusion over the Constitutio Romanum, and the very uncomfortable potential of scandal. Brace yourselves, our podcast mascots had plenty to say this episode. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod ...

Jun 14, 202120 minEp. 132

101. Eugene II

Pope Eugene, this time not a ghost, or spiders, wanted to ensure that he maintained a solid relationship with the Franks. And to do that, some compromises must be made. In his episode, we discuss the extremely important Constitutio Romanum, the Council of Rome 826, and which Jungle Book characters the Frankish kings should be. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tiny...

May 31, 202139 minEp. 131

100. Paschal I

We've reached 100 main episodes, just in time for our three year anniversary! And Paschal is about to make some significant changes! In his episode we'll discuss a monumental building effort in Rome, the translations of saints relics, and factional, probably totally complicit murder. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

May 17, 202158 minEp. 130

99. Stephen IV

Pope Stephen IV is NOT Stephen VI. In his episode, we discuss the symbolic importance of the coronation of Louis the Pious, Jesus's sandals, and we ask important questions about where you would rather be kissed. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Apr 26, 202135 minEp. 129

98. Leo III

As a non-noble elected to the Papacy, Leo received a terrible welcome. Fortunately, miracles and Charlemagne made things right. In his episode, we discuss the precedents of judging a pope and oaths of purgation, Holy Roman Emperors, and so much about Carolingian mythmaking that Fry can't take it. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Apr 12, 202158 minEp. 128

Bonus Episode: Is Hadrian Underrated? with War and Conquest

Surprise! In this bonus episode, Bry is joined by Neil of War and Conquest Podcast to talk more about Charlemagne, more Papal States, and discuss whether Pope Hadrian should be on Top 10 pope lists. War and Conquest: https://www.warandconquest.com/ https://twitter.com/warandconquest1

Apr 05, 202159 minEp. 127

97. Hadrian I

While Paul Afiarta conspired to secure the papacy, the elite and very popular Hadrian secured the votes instead - and things were about to change! In his episode, we discuss the fall of Paul Afiarta, the fall of Desiderius and the Lombard Kingdom, the emergence of an empire, and the hardcore bromance with the French Man. PS- Pontifacts mascot Ridley had plenty to say in this episode, apologies! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast...

Mar 29, 20211 hr 2 minEp. 126

96. Stephen III

Pope Stephen's election comes at a time where the people of the newly established papal states are grappling with having the Pope as their new secular leader. Violence ensues. In his episode we discuss Duke Toto and his antipope, King Desiderius and his antipope, the rise and fall of Chris and Serg, and the new Franks in charge. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://ti...

Mar 15, 20211 hr 11 minEp. 125

95. Paul I

The brother of our last Pope, Paul was a capable diplomat, and a fitting choice to continue Stephen's policies. In his episode, we discuss the threat of the Lombards, the threat of the Byzantines, the threat of a Byzantine-Lombard alliance, Saint Petronilla, and no-lady zones. Intelligent Speech tickets available here: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontif...

Mar 01, 202139 minEp. 124

Announcement: Intelligent Speech 2021

Intelligent Speech is back, and we will be speaking! We will be joining forces with Steve of History of the Papacy to talk about the Pope's Secret Escape passageway, and Bry will be participating in a panel on Italy with Steve, Mike of History of Italy, and Marco of Storia d'Italia. Tickets are available at https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ Use code PONT for 10% off your ticket.

Mar 01, 20211 minEp. 123

94. Stephen II

The real pope Stephen II has a pontificate that marks many very important paradigm shifts that will change the role of the papacy from here on out. In his episode, we discuss the beginning of the Frankish papacy, yet another Lombard threat, the Donation of Pepin, and the beginning of Popes crowning and legitimating the rule of Kings. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https...

Feb 15, 202155 minEp. 122

Pope Elect Stephen

Stephen was elected to the papacy... that's about it. In his episode, we discuss the debate over when a pope becomes a pope, and the pontifical numbering confusion for the Stephens. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Feb 01, 20217 minEp. 121

93. Zachary

Pope Zachary, our last "Byzantine" pope, marks an important shift away from the Eastern Empire, towards... yet another empire. In his episode, we discuss the ongoing Iconoclasm, calming the Lombard threat, evangelization in Germania, and how babies poop sometimes. Come for the bad Angelology, stay for "Here are your Hot Dogs": a broad overview of the Franks. Revolution 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3fuVDWbZ9igPTraCLTZx3j?si=OudvgE-nQWOQnTO2EjZ8yw&fbclid=IwAR1WarEAq1jShf1EvsCPBKhyeIsfW1...

Jan 18, 202157 minEp. 120

Bonus Episode: A History of the Papacy Conversation

In this very special bonus episode and our first Agora collaboration, Bry and Fry sit down with Steve Guerra from the History of the Papacy to discuss favourite popes, favourite moments in papal history, and what draws us into the wild and complex legacy of the church. Find the History of the Papacy here: https://www.atozhistorypage.com/

Jan 04, 202146 minEp. 119

92. Gregory III

Pope Gregory III is the last non-European pope in the church until the election of Pope Francis. He also did not expect to be pope! In his episode, we discuss his unusual election, the frustrating obstacles to defending iconoclasm, the ongoing petty squabbles of the Lombards, horse meat, and some actual contact with Charles Martel! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https:/...

Dec 14, 202045 minEp. 118

91. Gregory II

Pope Gregory II, "the mouthy" has a lot to live up to in his namesake, and a lot of assassination attempts to see off. In his episode, we discuss a significant Tiber flood, an unusually specific synod, the beginning of the Papal States, and the ICONOCLASM. We also ask the important question... who is messing in the olive groves?! Show Notes: Map of Rome: https://theromanguy.com/wp-content/uploads/Hills-of-ROme-2.jpeg Tonsure Image: https://humoncomics.com/art/monk-tonsure.png Papal Coat of Arms ...

Nov 30, 20201 hr 12 minEp. 117

90. Constantine

After Sisinnius's sudden death, his brother Constantine was the perfect fit to succeed him as pope - he was attracted to the Eastern culture, he had a rapport with the Imperial family, and he had a streak of luck like we haven't seen in a long time. In his episode, we discuss weaboo-ing, vinegar blinding, and sneaky murdering. https://vurbl.com/station/6kQLp2NkIIO/ Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pont...

Nov 16, 202055 minEp. 116

89. Sisinnius

Sisinnius would have made a great pope. In his episode, we discuss the growth of the Eastern influence in the Roman church, the state of the Aurelian walls, and gout. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Oct 26, 202021 minEp. 115

88. John VII

Two Johns in a row! This one got the more unfortunate nickname... In his episode, we deal with John's gamble against the revenge driven Emperor Justinian No-Nose, regulations for clerical dress, and a possibly-definitely made up scandal Fry is not on board with. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist...

Oct 12, 202026 minEp. 114

87. John VI

Pope Salty Eye lived up to his name better than we could have ever hoped. In his episode, we discuss the unexpected arrival of the Exarch of Ravenna, the unexpected arrival of the Lombards, and the very expected arrival of Wilfrid of York. We also teach Fry's child how to use 'salty'. (Narrator:"But Bry did not get her bad rolls, and her D&D character ended up insta-killed that very evening!") Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: paypal.me/pontifactspodc...

Sep 28, 202029 minEp. 113

Announcement: Agora Podcast Network

We're extremely pleased to announce that Pontifacts is now a part of the Agora Podcast Network! Visit the Agora website: https://www.agorapodcastnetwork.com/

Sep 21, 20201 minEp. 112
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