Mistresses Podcast on Audible: Jameela Jamil & Kate Lister Reveal Scandalous Untold Stories

Audible, the audiobook and podcast giant, has once again redefined historical storytelling with the launch of its groundbreaking new Audible Original podcast, “Mistresses”. Hosted by outspoken activist and actress Jameela Jamil alongside renowned historian Dr. Kate Lister, the podcast promises a riveting journey into the lives of history’s most controversial, misunderstood, and often overlooked women.

Podcast cover art of Audible’s Mistresses featuring Jameela Jamil and Dr. Kate Lister against a vintage tapestry backdrop symbolizing historical intrigue and femininity.

Set across six gripping episodes, “Mistresses” uncovers the raw, scandalous, and powerful tales of historical figures who lived in the shadows of kings, emperors, and tycoons—but whose influence shaped empires, toppled leaders, and rewrote the rules of power and desire.

Meet the Hosts: A Power Duo Redefining Historical Narrative

Jameela Jamil: Known for her sharp wit and unwavering feminist advocacy, Jamil brings energy, empathy, and edge to the narrative. She uses her global platform to center women’s voices and hidden stories.
Dr. Kate Lister: Academic, historian, and authority on the history of sexuality, Dr. Lister brings intellectual rigor and dark humor to the show. Her expertise provides a factual and nuanced backdrop to each story.

Together, they challenge sanitized textbook histories and add color, complexity, and humanity to the women the world forgot—or purposely ignored.

The Format: Six Unmissable Episodes of Scandal, Power, and Resistance

Each episode of “Mistresses” follows a thematic arc, delving deep into:

The woman’s personal journey
The political and cultural backdrop of her era
The scandalous or heroic nature of her relationship
The long-term influence of her role in shaping historical events

Joining the hosts is Katie Kennedy, the Gen Z historian behind the popular social media handle The History Gossip. With her vibrant personality and knack for context, she weaves in bite-sized commentary that connects past with present.

Key Episodes: History’s Most Gossiped-About ‘Other Women’

Here’s a sneak peek at the figures featured in the podcast:

1. Madame de Montespan

The influential mistress of King Louis XIV, rumored to have been involved in occult practices and poison plots.

2. Wu Zhao (Wu Zetian)

From concubine to the only female Emperor of China—Wu Zhao’s journey is a lesson in resilience and political mastery.

3. Virginia Hill

Mob-connected, fearless, and unflinchingly bold—Virginia was more than just Bugsy Siegel’s girlfriend.

4. Marita Lorenz

A woman whose life reads like a spy novel—from an affair with Fidel Castro to CIA involvement.

5. Malintzin (La Malinche)

Both translator and strategist, her story straddles betrayal and empowerment during the Spanish conquest of Mexico.

6. Mary Boleyn

Often overshadowed by her sister Anne, Mary’s affairs with powerful men played a pivotal role in Tudor politics.

Themes Explored in the Podcast

Sexual Politics: How sexuality was wielded as both a weapon and a survival tactic.
Patriarchy & Power: The intersections of gender, influence, and historical bias.
Intrigue & Betrayal: Shocking secrets that reframe entire eras.
Empowerment through Visibility: What happens when we reinsert women into the historical spotlight?

Why ‘Mistresses’ Matters in 2025

In a year where narratives around gender, history, and power are under the microscope, “Mistresses” arrives as both a cultural commentary and a call to rethink what we consider ‘important history.’

This isn’t just a gossip-laden historical retelling—it’s a feminist reclamation of agency, identity, and the right to be remembered.

What Listeners Are Saying

“It’s like Bridgerton meets true crime meets PhD-level history. I’m obsessed.” — Early Listener Review

“Finally, history podcasts that don’t put me to sleep. Jameela and Kate are a dream team.”

Where to Listen

“Mistresses” is available now exclusively on Audible. Some episodes may require an Audible membership.

Listen to Mistresses on Audible