I teach AP European History and am looking for ways to improve my general understanding of the period "after Rome" leading up to the beginning of the class which begins in 1450.

This era in history has always been one that I considered boring and too obscure when I was younger (because I didn't understand its significance), and I'm looking to rectify that.

I know the simple answer is "look at the book list and do some reading," but I find Podcasts to be more digestible and I can listen to them while walking the dog, cleaning, etc. Also, the more informal tone makes them more enjoyable than audiobooks for me. Yes, I know I'm being picky.

I've really enjoyed Mike Duncan's Fall of Rome and Revolutions, so I'm looking for something similar to that.

I'll also take off topic recommendations. I do listen to Dan Carlin, and I love his colorful storytelling, but he does make me roll my eyes from time to time.

I'm traveling to Europe this summer (Netherlands, Belgium, N. France & Paris) and would love to have something new to listen to during my travels. Or what to make sure not to miss seeing!

Thank you all for the quality contributions around here. The post the other day about the lack of upvoting has shown the importance of diligent support for all of the (FREE!) content, analysis, and clarifications provided to all of us.