2 - All the Pope's Men

Rome, 1930: a city under fascist rule, where the Vatican seethes with spies, secret deals, and political violence. In this shadowed world, Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli — soon to become Pope Pius XII — rises to power, while at his side emerges the unlikely figure of Dr. Riccardo Galeazzi-Lisi: gambler, racecar driver, and unorthodox physician. This episode explores their growing bond, tracing Pacelli’s ascent within the Church and Riccardo’s reckless double life. At the center lies homeopathy — a controversial medical tradition surrounded by both believers and skeptics. With the help of experts, we explore its history, its promises, its limits, and why it may hold the key to understanding the strange alliance between Pope and doctor. From the smoky backrooms of fascist Rome to the guarded corridors of the Vatican, Episode Two probes the mystery of a relationship that defied logic — and left behind questions the Church has never fully answered.Discover more at RiccardoPodcast.com — where, starting September 17, 2025, you’ll find documents, research, and exclusive insights expanding on the story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.