Sex Work in Alaska's Gold Rush

The Most Badass Dragon Slayers in History

Jul 7, 202648 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets, host Kate Lister is joined by historian and author Jasmine Elmer to explore the fascinating global history of women dragon slayers. Moving beyond the traditional patriarchal narrative of knights rescuing damsels, the discussion dives into the diverse and often overlooked mythology of women who take on monstrous beasts. Lister and Elmer unpack the definition of a dragon, noting how the creature’s meaning shifts from the marauding monsters of Western folklore to the symbols of prosperity found in Eastern traditions. They also examine why the dragon motif appears so universally, discussing theories ranging from the discovery of prehistoric fossils to deep-seated psychological fears of snakes. The conversation highlights specific historical figures, such as Saint Margaret of Antioch, who uses faith rather than conventional weaponry to overcome her adversaries. Ultimately, the episode serves as a subversion of the classic hero’s journey, focusing on the distinct, often selfless motivations that drive these legendary women to act. By examining these tales, the pair uncovers why stories of female heroism remain a powerful and necessary addition to our cultural history.

Sex Lives of American Presidents

Jul 3, 202636 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society, host Kate Lister explores the private lives of American Commanders-in-Chief. Joined by historian and author Eleanor Herman, the discussion dives into the intersection of extreme political power and sexual recklessness. The conversation examines the concept of Hubris Syndrome, a psychological disorder often triggered by long-term power, which can lead to narcissism and dangerous impulsivity. The hosts analyze specific historical figures, contrasting the relatively boring private life of George Washington with the horrific reality of Thomas Jefferson, who fathered children with the enslaved Sally Hemings. The episode also highlights the flagrant, pathological promiscuity of John F. Kennedy, noting his blatant disregard for his wife, Jackie, and the potential national security risks created by his lack of discretion. Beyond these scandals, the episode addresses the lifelong relationship of James Buchanan—often cited as America’s only gay president—and debunks myths regarding Abraham Lincoln’s sexuality. Ultimately, the discussion provides a revealing look at how political figures have historically navigated—or ignored—the public consequences of their private desires, while exploring why such behaviors have been hidden, ignored, or exposed throughout different eras of American history.

Sex Lives of American Presidents [repeat]

Jul 3, 202636 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt the Sheets, host Kate Lister is joined by historian Eleanor Herman, author of Sex with Presidents, to explore the often-hidden history of infidelity, scandal, and romance within the White House. The conversation delves into the psychological phenomenon of hubris syndrome, which suggests that the possession of absolute power can foster narcissism and reckless behavior in political leaders, often manifesting in sexual indiscretions. The discussion covers a range of figures, from the famously "boring" sexual history of George Washington to the more complex and troubling dynamics involving Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings. The hosts also examine the compulsive philandering of John F. Kennedy, questioning how such blatant behavior went unreported by the press for so long due to the "gentleman’s agreement" era of journalism. Additionally, the episode sheds light on James Buchanan, arguably America's first gay president, and the intricacies of the marriage between Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Through these stories, the episode examines the intersection of power, privilege, and personal morality, illustrating how the intense pressure and isolation of the presidency have shaped the private lives of the nation’s commanders-in-chief.

Lesbian Blood Sisters of the HIV Crisis

Jun 30, 202643 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt the Sheets, host Kate Lister explores the moving and often overlooked history of the Lesbian Blood Sisters of San Diego during the early days of the HIV/AIDS crisis. Joined by Professor Jennifer Breyer, author of Infectious Ideas: US Political Response to the AIDS Crisis, the discussion provides vital historical context to the 1980s, an era defined by profound tragedy, government inaction, and systemic prejudice. The conversation highlights how, in a climate of intense homophobia and fear, LGBTQ+ communities had to create their own systems of survival. The hosts examine how lesbian groups in Southern California mobilized to donate blood for their dying gay brothers, despite the era’s lack of medical testing and the misinformation that labeled certain identities as high-risk. Key insights include the distinction between the political solidarity of the era and the reality that lesbians were also suffering from the epidemic. By analyzing the motivations of the Lesbian Blood Sisters—who operated in a time before widespread digital communication—the episode sheds light on the grassroots activism that emerged when traditional institutions failed, illustrating the power of community, caretaking, and the necessity of looking back at the 1970s to fully understand the 1980s crisis.

Supersluts of History: Hollywood's Marlene Dietrich

Jun 26, 202648 minSummary

In this final installment of the limited series exploring the so-called super sluts of history, host Kate Lister is joined by film critic and author Mick LaSalle to unpack the legendary life of Hollywood icon Marlene Dietrich. The episode examines whether Dietrich, a woman whose name became synonymous with scandal, truly earned her reputation for prolific promiscuity and whether she embraced that identity on her own terms. The discussion traces Dietrich’s journey from her early days in Weimar-era Berlin to her explosive rise in Hollywood, where she became a global star. LaSalle highlights her unique ability to blend gender-bending style with unapologetic sexuality, noting her penchant for wearing men’s clothing and her effortless ability to captivate both men and women. The hosts explore her unconventional personal life, including a lifelong marriage that functioned as an open partnership, and her extensive list of high-profile lovers, which ranged from Gary Cooper and John Wayne to an encounter with JFK later in her life. Ultimately, the episode paints a portrait of a woman who was fiercely in control of her image, her career, and her own sexual liberation.

Sex Work in the Klondike Gold Rush

Jun 23, 202639 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society, host Kate Lister explores the intense and often dangerous world of the Klondike Gold Rush. Joined by guest Brian Castner, the discussion delves into the mid-1890s stampede, where approximately 100,000 people—mostly inexperienced urbanites—traveled to the harsh frontiers of Alaska and the Yukon in search of fortune. The episode examines the stark reality of the era, contrasting the romanticized mythology of the Wild West with the grueling, life-threatening conditions faced by those seeking gold. A major focus of the conversation is the economic role of women in these mining boomtowns. Given the severe shortage of women and the scarcity of traditional employment, many resorted to sex work, which served as a highly lucrative, albeit risky, trade. Castner explains how local authorities, such as the Northwest Mounted Police, essentially integrated sex work into the local economy through a system of fines that funded public services like hospitals. The episode also highlights notable figures, including successful businesswomen who mined the miners, and explains the grueling nature of the industry, from dance-hall labor to the complex social dynamics of the frontier.

Supersluts of History: First World War Spy Mata Hari

Jun 19, 202655 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets, host Kate Lister is joined by historian Professor Julie Wheelwright to examine the life and legacy of Mata Hari, the legendary exotic dancer turned First World War spy. As part of a miniseries exploring historical women labeled as super sluts, the discussion challenges the sensationalist narrative that has defined Mata Hari for over a century. The conversation traces her journey from a troubled childhood in the Netherlands to her rise as a celebrated icon of Paris’s Belle Époque, where she captivated audiences with her avant-garde, erotically charged performances. The hosts explore how, amidst the geopolitical anxiety of the First World War, Mata Hari’s independence, foreign background, and open embrace of her sexuality made her an easy target for authorities. They reveal that her reputation as a dangerous mastermind spy was largely a fabrication created by men in power to manage public fears, ultimately positioning her as a convenient scapegoat. By examining her own personal letters, the episode humanizes a woman who was often exploited by the men around her, shedding light on the harsh realities of being a woman with limited agency in an era defined by conflict and scandal.

A Teasing History Of Burlesque

Jun 16, 202653 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets, host Kate Lister is joined by art historian Marissa Vigno to explore the long, complex history of burlesque. Far from being a static art form, the conversation reveals that burlesque is a fluid performance style that has shifted between high culture and lowbrow entertainment for centuries. The discussion traces its origins from European theater—where the term itself implies parody and comedy—to the vibrant, working-class scenes of American cities. The episode highlights the essential tension in burlesque: the struggle between accusations of exploitation and the assertion of female agency. They examine the evolution from Victorian-era performances, which used suggestive clothing and body stockings to hint at skin, to the later development of the striptease in the 20th century. Key insights include the role of the Minsky brothers in shaping the American burlesque scene and the constant "cat-and-mouse" game between performers and censors, such as the infamous Anthony Comstock. Ultimately, the hosts discuss how burlesque, through its blend of humor, performance, and bodily display, continues to occupy a unique space in both historical and contemporary discussions of sexuality and power.

Supersluts of History: Royal Mistress Madam du Barry

Jun 12, 202645 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets, host Kate Lister explores the life of Madame du Barry, the infamous royal mistress to King Louis XV. Joined by guest Professor Christine Adams, co-author of The Creation of the French Royal Mistress, Lister examines the meteoric rise of Jeanne Bécu, a woman of humble origins who navigated the rigid hierarchies of the 18th-century French court to become the King’s favorite. The conversation challenges popular historical caricatures that often depict du Barry as a vulgar, uneducated social climber. Instead, Professor Adams portrays her as an elegant and surprisingly generous figure who managed to influence the French court despite intense hostility from the royal family, particularly Marie Antoinette. The discussion delves into the practical realities of being a royal mistress, highlighting how du Barry functioned as a political conduit and why her presence was both a source of scandal and a target for those vying for power. By stripping away the misogynistic tropes that have defined her legacy, the episode offers a nuanced look at how gender, class, and sexuality intersected in the volatile years preceding the French Revolution.

Supersluts of History: Roman Empress Theodora

Jun 5, 202639 minSummary

In this episode of Betwixt The Sheets, host Kate Lister kicks off a new limited series exploring the lives of historical figures labeled as super sluts. The guest, author Stella Duffy, provides a captivating look at the Empress Theodora, a woman who rose from a background of poverty and, according to legend, sex work, to become one of the most powerful leaders of the Byzantine Empire. The discussion deconstructs the bias found in ancient accounts—most notably those of the historian Procopius—who painted Theodora as a devious and hyper-sexualized figure. Duffy argues that much of this reputation stems from misogyny and discomfort with a woman wielding political authority. The episode highlights Theodora’s actual legislative achievements, including early anti-rape laws, protections for dowries, and the establishment of support systems for women in the sex trade. The conversation also explores her partnership with Emperor Justinian, suggesting their marriage was a genuine love match that defied social norms. By analyzing her historical legacy, the hosts reveal Theodora as a complex, strategic, and resilient figure who stood her ground during times of intense political turmoil, fundamentally shaping the course of Roman history.