
Real Dictators is the award-winning podcast that explores the hidden lives of history's tyrants. Hosted by Paul McGann, with contributions from eyewitnesses and expert historians. New episodes available two weeks early for Noiser+ subscribers. You'll also get ad-free listening, early access and exclusive content on shows across the Noiser podcast network. Click the subscription banner at the top o... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 169 | Founded | 6 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | HistoryDramaFiction | |||

Rafael Trujillo held the Dominican Republic in his grip for 31 long years, from 1930 to 1961. He ruled with extraordinary brutality and a colossal ego. Yet riding the currents of geopolitics, he managed to hold onto power for far longer than many dee... more
With his enemies vanquished Octavian returns to a hero’s welcome. Consolidating personal rule over Rome’s vast dominions, he begins dismantling the old republic. The Senate declares him the most “August” of Caesars, an Emperor. But the lack of an hei... more
Alongside Mark Antony, Octavian hunts down Great-Uncle Julius’s assassins. But Antony will soon go rogue, beguiled - just like Caesar - by Queen Cleopatra of Egypt. Octavian will strike without mercy. With General Agrippa to the fore, he will soon co... more
On the Ides of March 44BC, Julius Caesar is murdered in the Senate. With Rome’s long-time dictator deposed, the would-be inheritors of his estate and offices begin jostling for position. But as it turns out, Caesar has had other ideas. Remarkably, hi... more
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The narrator has a great voice and the music is nice. The ads aren’t awful or poorly placed. But the writing is ridiculous. It’s sensationalist at times and it sounds like it was written by a democratic socialist given how they frame the most contentious stories.
Absolutely remarkable this is free and it’s so well produced. Yes there is dramatisation and no doubt some aspects are embellished but overall it’s so interesting. The man that reads them all is easy to listen to and non-annoying and I have learnt so much. I also like the Short History Of… series that Noiser does.
I really love this podcast. I’ve listened to all of them and would like to go back and listen again some day. Some are quite long, like Hitler & Napoleon but they need it; some are too short, like Hoxha, which I would prefer longer. I don’t particularly like the ancient dictators; feels like a history lesson, but they are all so extremely well researched with great book references and guest speakers. The narrator Paul McGann has the perfect tone for them too. I hope to hear Stroessner (Paraguay)... more
As a long time listener I’m enjoying Ian Glenn. Good to have a change.
I’m now listening to the new 3 parter on the Roman Empire with Paul and the so called experts are dreadful!! So much so I can’t finish this series. The male expert in particular is awful! Why have these people contributing? You don’t need them!!!
Paul McGann in his bag!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #59 | |
Spotify | #20 | |
Apple Podcasts | #196 | |
Apple Podcasts | #16 | |
Apple Podcasts | #25 | |
Spotify | #23 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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This show provides in-depth historical storytelling focused on the lives and regimes of infamous dictators, combining archival narration with expert analysis. Episodes weave political biography, international diplomacy, and social impact, often featuring historians and scholars to contextualize events, while occasionally highlighting celebrity connections and cultural moments tied to the figures. The production emphasizes thorough research, nuanced portrayals, and a narrative style that balances critical analysis with engaging storytelling. It's likely to appeal to history enthusiasts who enjoy rigorous context, primary-source framing, and well-structured episodes that connect regional developments to global Cold War dynamics. A standout as... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Real Dictators:
1. Short History Of...
2. History Daily
3. Biography
4. Real Survival Stories
5. Dan Snow's History Hit
Real Dictators launched 6 years ago and published 169 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Real Dictators include:
1. Joyce Tyldesley
2. Lauren Ginsberg
3. Neville Morley
4. David Gwynn
5. Christopher Catherwood
6. Geoffrey Swain
7. Nicholas O'Shaughnessy
8. Susan L. Woodward
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