PONTIFACTS: Ranking the Popes

Callixtus might have been the ballsiest man to take the papacy since Gregory VII. In his episode, we discuss his impressive family, his audacious forgeries, and the END of the INVESTITURE CONTROVERSY!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Introducing Pope Gelasius, a monk who fixed the papal bull miniscule! In his episode, we discuss an early attack, evading an attack, and a follow up attack. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Its time to follow another one of the papal greats, and we know how this usually goes, don't we? Introducing Pope Paschal II! In his episode, we discuss shifting antipapacies, the Crusade of the Faint Hearted, the Privilegium, and papal butts. **Disclaimer: Editing this episode proved tricky with some pesky windows updates creating and then deleting issues on and off, so we believe we have caught everything. If you notice a crackle, or some other issue, please let us know. There is still time to get tickets for Intelligent Speech, happening this upcoming weekend! Use code POPE at checkout on https://intelligentspeechonline.com/ for a discount on your ticket! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

We have reached yet another juggernaut in the High Middle Ages: Urban II! In his episode, we discuss bigamous marriages, incestuous orgies, the First Crusade, and "Deus Vult". Pontifacts is speaking at Intelligent Speech 2026! Get your tickets at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/ Use code POPE at checkout for a discount on your ticket! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Surprise bonus episode, looking back! As Storia d'Italia approaches the Carolingian Papacy, Marco invited Bry for a retrospective on the shifting landscape of the popes, power, and paradigm in that period. Find Storia d'Italia here (In Italian): https://italiastoria.com/

Pope Victor III is undeniably a significant historical figure, but has the unusual honour of being more famous for his pre-papal life! In his episode, we discuss the Golden Age of Montecassino, regifting stolen goods, the ultimate dilly-dallying, and only briefly lament for him that we are not rating abbots. Pontifacts is speaking at Intelligent Speech 2026! Get your tickets at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/ Use code POPE at checkout for a discount on your ticket! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

They finally got him! Despite being the hide and seek champion, Hildebrand has finally been cornered into being pope. And what a papacy he will have! In his episode (now officially our longest episode to date), we will discuss the Investiture Controversy, the famous Walk to Canossa, what the hell a 'toot' could be, and something that Fry hates, but Bry loves. Episode features Ben Jacobs from Wittenberg to Westphalia, David Montgomery from The Siecle, and Gregg Gassman of Popeular history. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Pope Alexander II might not have been the holiest member of his family, but he still certainly left an impact. In his episode, we discuss the Patarines, the fallout of In Nomine Domini, and the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 Get your Intelligent Speech 2026 tickets now at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/, and use code POPE in the checkout for a discount! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Pope Nicholas II became the first pope in history to actually regulate papal elections! In his episode, we discuss a major change in relations with the Normans, the beginnings of the Pataria, and the massively influential In Nomine Domini! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Pope Stephen IX is the last Pope Stephen in history thusfar! In his episode, we discuss his very odd choices, both around family and power. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Following behind the juggernaut of Pope Leo IX, Victor II decides to follow his model in many ways. In his episode, we discuss incredible regencies, important councils, and Florence, for the first time!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

The life of Pope Leo IX was so full of miracles that we had to dedicate a full episode to cover them all! In this episode, we discuss miraculous animals, markings, visions and smitings, and walk away with the most important prayer: "Please don't scrub my guts." Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Coming in at a rival for our longest episode to date, we introduce Pope Leo IX, the Battley Pilgrim Pope! In his episode, we discuss the beginning of the High Medieval Papacy, a massive recovery and reformation for the church, the Great Schism of 1054, and so many freakin' miracles. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

We're finally permanently out of the shadow of Benedict IX, and its time for Pope Damasus II! Will he live up to his namesake? In his episode, we discuss the actual favoured papal candidates, the flightiest Margrave of Tuscany....and fake facts about the Harlem Globetrotters. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

In our final retrospective on the "Demon from Hell" Pope, Bry and Fry are delighted to be joined by John from Saga Thing! In this episode, we discuss the Christianization of Iceland, how figures of the Sagas might view the popes, and just how nuts this guy truly was! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Can you believe it, he's back again!! In this episode, we finally put the 'demon from hell' pope to bed, ask ourselves whether he repented or returned as a donkey-bear, and finally, rate Benedict IX!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Are we truly out of the chaos, with a newly chosen pope?! Only this episode will tell. This time, we discuss the outcome of the Council of Sutri, the need for a non Roman pope, and horrifying sexy anime legs. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

And we are back to regular programming - and straight back into chaos! In Gregory's episode, we look at what it looks like when the papacy is bought and sold - and what that does to a stellar reputation in the process! Help us raise $40 million to buy the papacy today! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Did you know that part of the origin of Friday the 13th's bad luck begins with a Pope? In a surprise drop, we are sharing our presentation from Intelligent Speech 2025: Deception on the dissolution of the Knights Templar, and how a pope's deception and complicity caused many deaths, a curse, and a long standing superstition! This episode is presented as it was live at Intelligent Speech 2025: Deception, with no other edits. This is an annual online conference for independent podcasters and content creators designed to bring creators closer to their listeners! Bry helps run this conference. You can find more out about the conference, and see whats coming for 2026 very soon at https://intelligentspeechonline.com/ Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

In Part 2 of our exploration of Papal Doomsday theories, Bry is joined by Dr Barry Torch to go through all 112 mottos from the 'Prophecies of the Popes of Saint Malachy', who they are meant to be, and our thoughts on how they measure up! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

In what was meant to be our final episode of the sede Vacante, we explore two doomsday theories about the 'final popes' and the end of the world! Join us for the portrait spaces at St Paul's Outside the Walls, the 'Prophecies of the Popes' of Saint Malachy, and a few prophecies of our own! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

HABEMUS PAPAM! Bry, Fry and Gregg discuss the new pope, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist Listen to Popeular History: https://popeularhistory.podbean.com/

Before the conclave convenes on May 7th, Bry, Fry and Gregg (Popeular History) discuss the Cardinals, and in part 2 we discuss the whole of the cardinal electorate, as well as a few unconventional pope choices, presented by Fry!! CONCLAVE LIVESTREAM: https://www.youtube.com/live/OqyACgPq4no?si=VwFa2WDCJmiG163Y

Before the conclave convenes on May 7th, Bry, Fry and Gregg (Popeular History) discuss the Cardinals considered most likely to be elected Pope. Join us in Part 2: the Pack, to hear about the whole cardinal electorate, coming very soon! CONCLAVE LIVESTREAM: https://www.youtube.com/live/OqyACgPq4no?si=VwFa2WDCJmiG163Y

As part of our exploration of the papal transition, Bry and Fry revisit a presentation they gave at the 2019 Sound Education conference on the wildest papal elections in history. In this episode, we discuss the first election by acclamation, the reason we have conclaves, and a pope elected by accident. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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.)

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!

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.

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! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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

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...

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!!!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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.

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist (edited)

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!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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/ Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist (edited)

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!! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

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. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist (edited)

Will this Drunken Tide escape the trappings of being a puppet pope?! In his episode, we discuss the return of an antipope, a new emperor on the rise, and the beginnings of the Investiture Controversy! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Will Pope John XIV be a "Bold Victory"? That may be hard without eyes, or a tongue. In his episode, we discuss the more popular papal candidate, the more powerful antipope, and the papal naming confusion that will throw a new wrench in the Johns! Thanks John XIV-bis. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

Pope Benedict might have been a nepo-baby, but that did not stop him from cracking down on simony, and not seeing the irony! In his episode, we discuss antipope instability, compromise candidates, and how "in Gerusalemme" is actually in Rome. Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

The time has come for us to rank the pope that never existed! New sources have been uncovered, and this most mysterious man finally has a moment in the light! ...Things get strange. Huge thank you to our contributors! Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspo Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist

How can we talk about Benedict VI, when everything attributed to him is either a forgery or a misunderstanding? In his episode, we discuss the many confusions, repeated Roman rebellions, and papal fanfiction (Submit your creations for Pope Donus at [email protected]!) Support Pontifacts: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pontifactspod Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/pontifactspodcast Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/pontifactspod Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/pontifactswishlist