🔍 When most of us think "Viking," we picture raiders, longboats, and epic battles. But what if the true story was quieter—yet even more powerful?

Historian and BBC broadcaster Dr. Eleanor Barraclough joins us for an unforgettable Smithsonian Associates episode of The Not Old Better Show to talk about her new book, Embers of the Hands: Hidden Histories of the Viking Age. Dr. Barraclough will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of her presentation is Hidden Histories of the Viking Age. Check out our website for more details at

https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/viking-age

In our conversation, we go far beyond helmets and heroics. Dr. Barraclough shares how artifacts like carved antler combs, rune-covered graffiti, and tiny gaming pieces reveal the daily lives of Viking women, children, farmers, artisans, and travelers. It's not just about who fought and conquered—but who cooked, cursed, loved, and played.

She also talks about why we need to rethink our historical framework—not as fixed timelines and famous names, but as rivers of human experience, emotion, and connection.

If you're over 50—or simply curious about the past—this conversation offers a reminder that history is less about textbooks and more about touchstones. 🎧 Listen here: https://apple.co/3FAbebT

#NotOldBetter #SmithsonianAssociates #VikingAge #HistoricalResearch #PublicHistory #EmbersOfTheHands #HumanHistory #LifelongLearning