In this series, we're time traveling back to past empires to meet some of the woman who ran them. This time, we're revisiting a ruling lady we've met before: the mighty Cleopatra of ancient Egypt's Ptolemaic Empire. This isn't just a re-release, though: I've re-recorded the three-part original series, giving it a 2026 glow-up, and smushed it into one big glitter bomb of goodness. Join me as we explore Cleopatra's life and reign, which was SO MUCH MORE impressive than her famous affairs with Roman generals. Let's go traveling. Ways to support The Exploress:

• Become a patron and enjoy exclusive bonus episodes, including the video version of this conversation and special episodes you won't find anywhere else
• Grab a book at the Exploress Bookshop
• Buy some merch and art available at the Exploress shop
• Check out Kate's novels, NIGHTBIRDS and FYREBIRDS

The music in this episode comes courtesy of Derek and Brandon Fiechter, Keith Zizza, and Michael Levy.