Backstory on the Shroud of Turin
History Podcasts
Are you fascinated by the intersection of biblical archaeology and modern science? Step into a world where history and cutting-edge research converge in our podcast, focusing on the Shroud of Turin, one of the most important Christian relics. I'm Guy...
Location:
United States
Description:
Are you fascinated by the intersection of biblical archaeology and modern science? Step into a world where history and cutting-edge research converge in our podcast, focusing on the Shroud of Turin, one of the most important Christian relics. I'm Guy R. Powell, author of "The Only Witness, a Christian Historical Fiction on the Shroud of Turin" and I invite you to join me and top experts from around the world including researchers, scientists, historians, and believers, (sindonologists – those that study the Shroud), as we explore the Shroud of Turin from every angle. We’ll try to uncover the truth about the Shroud of Turin. Special topics include: • Carbon dating of the Shroud. • How Jesus’s burial cloth, aka, The Shroud of Turin, or the Holy Shroud is mentioned in the Gospels Past interviews include top Sindonologists, such as: • Barrie Schwortz • Russ Breault • Joe Marino • Giulio Fanti • And many others Top questions discussed: • What is a biblical scholar as it relates to the Shroud of Turin? • What is the Shroud of Turin? • What is radio-carbon dating? • Is the Shroud of Turin real of fake? • What is the history of the Shroud of Turin? • When will the Shroud of Turin be exhibited? • What was the Shroud of Turin used for? • What blood and DNA was found on the Shroud of Turin? • What is the mystery of the Shroud of Turin? • Was the Shroud of Turin burned in a fire? • Was the Shroud of Turin found in Jesus’s tomb? • Is the Shroud of Turin the burial cloth of Jesus Christ? • Was it Mary Magdalene that found the Shroud of Turin? • Was it Peter and John that found the Shroud of Turin? • Is the Shroud of Turin the Holy Grail? Guy’s podcast and book has generated a world of comments: Guy Powell’s The Only Witness masterfully weaves a myriad of true historical and scientific details regarding the Shroud of Turin into a fascinating novel about this treasured relic and the people who were involved with it. His storytelling breathes life into history and is a joy to read! —Theodora (“Teddi”) A. Pappas, sindonologist and criminal defense attorney Kudos to Guy Powell who, in The Only Witness, has skillfully presented a most intriguing work of historical fiction regarding the putative burial cloth of Jesus Christ. —Jack Markwardt, historian and author of The Hidden History of the Shroud of Turin” “The missing element in Shroud studies has been a book like this." —David Rolfe, BAFTA-winning producer of The Silent Witness and Who Can He Be? Discussion topics covered in the Shroud include: • What future research is planned to further investigate the Shroud of Turin? • How does the study of the Shroud of Turin contribute to our understanding of Jesus’s life and times? • What controversies surround the carbon dating of the Shroud, and how are they addressed? • In what ways have new archaeological methods and discoveries provided insights into the authenticity of the Shroud? • How do experts differentiate between authentic relics and medieval forgeries? • What are the major historical events linked to the Shroud of Turin? • What are the latest scientific findings of the Shroud of Turin? • How does religious faith impact the study of the Shroud of Turin? Subscribe to Spotify or Apple Podcasts to listen each week. New episodes are uploaded every Thursday-Friday. Want to learn more about author Guy R. Powell? Check out my socials below: Website: www.guypowell.com Youtube: @Guy.R.Powell.ShroudofTurin Instagram: @guy.r.powell Facebook: @AHistoryOfTheShroudOfTurin Email List: https://guypowell.us6.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=27f4c87d37aa36fffdca695f3&id=6857bf7051 Connect today to unlock the mysteries of the Shroud of Turin.
Language:
English
Website:
https://guypowell.com/
Episodes
The Shroud: Hidden After the Resurrection?
4/15/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, historian Duran Smith joins Guy Powell to explore the early history of the Shroud following the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Smith discusses several theories regarding the Shroud’s journey across early Christian communities and its potential use in private Christian ceremonies during the first few centuries.
The conversation investigates the possibility that the apostles kept the burial linens to themselves, only revealing them to select followers during the early days of Christianity. Smith examines the role of early Christian communities in safeguarding sacred relics and the “discipline of the secret” that may have surrounded the Shroud. This fascinating discussion also covers the connections between the Shroud, the Eucharist, and early Christian tradition.
Smith also touches on the potential movement of the Shroud from Jerusalem to Antioch, Odessa, and eventually to Constantinople. Could this ancient relic have been used as a powerful visual representation of Christ's death and Resurrection in early Christian communities? Tune in to learn about the secrets of the Shroud that remain hidden in history.
Duration:01:08:57
Shroud of Turin: Who is He?
4/11/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy Powell interviews Pam McCue, a researcher and speaker on the Shroud. Pam shares her journey from skepticism to conviction after encountering a Shroud exhibit.
She delves into the historical and scientific evidence supporting the Shroud's authenticity, including early references to the Shroud in texts, and striking features it shares with ancient icons of Jesus Christ. Pam also discusses the groundbreaking discovery of pollen and dirt from Jerusalem on the Shroud, linking it directly to the Holy City.
Pam emphasizes the importance of these findings, showing how they challenge the Carbon-14 dating and offer compelling evidence of the Shroud’s first-century origins. She explains the significance of the Shroud’s photographic negative effect and three-dimensional image, which no one has been able to replicate.
This episode provides an insightful blend of faith, science, and history, pushing us to question the true identity of the man on the Shroud.
Duration:01:03:16
Shroud Hidden in Scripture
4/8/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews researcher Larry Stalley. The discussion explores a powerful question. Is the Shroud of Turin hidden within the Bible?
Stalley introduces the concept of the “discipline of the secret.” Early Christians protected sacred truths during persecution. This may explain why references to the Shroud appear veiled in Scripture.
The episode dives into Old Testament typology. Stalley connects the Shroud to the Ark of the Covenant, manna, and priestly garments. These symbols reveal deeper meaning tied to Jesus Christ and the Resurrection.
A major focus is tabernacle theology. The Shroud is presented as a “greater and more perfect tent.” This aligns with passages in Hebrews and offers new insight into the Resurrection narrative.
The conversation also explores baptism and the Eucharist. These practices may reflect the transformation represented by the burial cloth. Baptism symbolizes death and rebirth. The Eucharist represents the body and blood of Christ.
This episode blends theology, history, and faith. It challenges listeners to rethink the role of the Shroud of Turin. It also connects strongly with Guy Powell’s book, The Only Witness.
Duration:01:03:52
The Shroud of Turin: Early Views
3/31/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews Larry Stalley, a biblical scholar and expert on the Shroud. Stalley discusses his book, The Veiled Witness, which explores how the first Christians viewed the Shroud of Turin.
He dives into the concept of the "discipline of the secret" and its connection to early Christian practices and beliefs. Stalley also shares insights into the Shroud’s role as a sacred relic, its relationship to Old Testament artifacts like the Ark of the Covenant, and how it became a symbol of Christ’s high priesthood.
Through the lens of biblical typology, Stalley argues that the Shroud served not just as a burial cloth but as a profound witness to Christ’s resurrection.
This episode uncovers the theological and historical significance of the Shroud, offering listeners a deeper understanding of its place in early Christianity.
Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, the Shroud’s role in the development of Christian thought is a captivating subject that bridges faith, history, and mystery.
Duration:01:04:55
Gospel on Linen?
3/26/2026
In this episode of Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews Russ Breault about one of the most compelling claims surrounding the Shroud of Turin. Russ describes the cloth as a gospel written on linen and explains why it continues to inspire believers, researchers, and seekers alike.
He discusses the relationship between the Shroud, the empty tomb, and the face cloth, showing how these elements connect to the Gospel story of Jesus Christ. The conversation also explores suffering, sacrifice, and the idea of extreme love revealed through the Passion.
Russ offers insights that connect history, faith, and visual testimony in a way that is clear and accessible. This episode will resonate with anyone interested in the Resurrection, Christian apologetics, and the message behind The Only Witness.
Duration:00:54:27
Shroud Truth Revealed
3/17/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews Duran Smith to explore some of the most common objections to the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin.
The discussion begins with the widely accepted historical fact of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and then moves into claims that the Shroud was painted or forged during the Middle Ages.
Duran explains that scientific studies have confirmed the absence of paint, pigments, or artistic materials on the cloth, showing instead that the image is formed by a microscopic chemical change on the linen fibers.
The episode also highlights the unique three-dimensional properties of the Shroud, which allow for accurate human reconstruction when processed, something no traditional artwork can achieve.
They discuss the pointillistic nature of the image, where shading is created through fiber density rather than color variation, further supporting the argument against artistic creation. Additionally, the conversation addresses a medieval letter often cited by skeptics as proof of forgery, revealing its lack of credibility and unanswered questions.
This episode connects faith, science, and historical reasoning, offering insights that align with The Only Witness and its exploration of the Shroud of Turin. It challenges listeners to reconsider assumptions and examine the evidence surrounding the Resurrection of Jesus Christ with a more informed perspective.
Duration:01:00:02
Shroud Mystery Examined
2/27/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews engineer and author Les Fredette. Fredette discusses whether the Shroud of Turin could realistically have been forged in the Middle Ages. He explains why the anatomical precision, blood evidence, and crucifixion details challenge medieval forgery claims.
The conversation explores limestone traces connected to Jerusalem. It also considers how evolving science affects our understanding of the cloth. Fredette shares how he integrates Shroud research into his novel The Shrouded Truth. He avoids overwhelming readers with technical lectures. Instead, he presents evidence through character dialogue and tension.
Faith and science intersect throughout the discussion. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ remains central to the question of authenticity. For readers of The Only Witness, this interview adds depth to the ongoing historical and theological exploration.
Is the Shroud of Turin an unsolved scientific mystery? Or is it evidence connected to the Resurrection?
Duration:00:35:20
Proof of Resurrection?
2/25/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy Powell interviews evangelical apologist and theologian William Red. The two dive deep into Jewish burial customs from the first century and how these practices offer compelling support for the authenticity of the Shroud of Turin.
Red details how key figures like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea honored Jesus Christ with kingly burial rites 75 pounds of burial spices and fine linen, just as one would expect for a royal entombment.
The conversation doesn’t stop at tradition. Red explores modern science and its contributions to the Shroud’s authenticity, utilizing odds calculus and Bayesian probability to determine the likelihood of forgery.
By considering over 30 lines of evidence, including blood chemistry and textile analysis, Red concludes that the probability of forgery is astronomically low.
Whether you're grounded in faith or in data, this conversation challenges your perspective on the most famous burial cloth in history.
Duration:00:38:44
The Shroud of Turin: Divine Evidence
2/23/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell interviews Dr. Giulio Fanti, one of the leading researchers on the Shroud. Dr. Fanti discusses his work in unraveling the mystery of how the Shroud’s body image was formed.
He explains the concept of “divine photography,” where neutron radiation and a series of complex scientific processes, including electric fields and chemical reactions, may have imprinted the image of Jesus' body onto the cloth.
Dr. Fanti also explores his groundbreaking discovery of beta radioactivity in the Shroud’s bloodstains, challenging the 1988 Carbon-14 dating results.
This discovery has the potential to change the way we view the Shroud’s authenticity, suggesting a much earlier origin possibly from the time of Christ's death.
Join us for an in-depth conversation about the science behind the Shroud and how it may provide physical evidence of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This episode will give you a new perspective on one of history’s most famous relics.
Duration:00:29:55
Shroud and Resurrection
2/21/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell speaks with theologian and Shroud scholar Andrew Dalton. Dalton explains how the Shroud became central to his academic and pastoral mission.
The conversation explores Jewish burial customs, Gospel testimony, and forensic details found on the Shroud. Dalton highlights John’s Gospel and the discovery of the collapsed linen cloths at the tomb.
These details challenge explanations of theft or fabrication. Listeners learn why the Resurrection is not merely a return to life. It represents transformation into glory.
The Shroud offers physical evidence consistent with this claim. The episode also explains why Christian faith is grounded in reason. Belief grows from evidence, testimony, and historical coherence. Themes explored here closely align with The Only Witness.
Duration:00:58:20
Shroud and Conversion
2/19/2026
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell speaks with John Sottosanti, a retired dental surgeon and Shroud researcher. John shares how a scientific interest in the Shroud became a deeply personal encounter with Jesus Christ.
Formerly agnostic, John’s life shifted after extended observation of the blood and wounds on the Shroud. He explains how that experience revealed sacrifice, presence, and purpose.
John also offers professional insight into facial anatomy and linen behavior. He explains why some visual claims require caution and how the Shroud continues to resist artistic explanation.
The discussion blends humility, science, and faith without sensationalism. It echoes themes found in The Only Witness, Guy Powell’s exploration of the Shroud’s historical journey.
Duration:00:38:55
Shroud Secrets with Russ
11/28/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy Powell speaks with leading Shroud researcher and lecturer Russ Breault. Drawing from years of investigation, Breault offers remarkable insights into why the Shroud may serve as a visual extension of the Gospel and how it can deepen our understanding of the suffering and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Breault explains how Scripture provides a forensic blueprint of Jesus’ wounds. Yet the Gospels give very few details about His physical suffering. He argues that the Shroud fills these gaps by presenting a “gospel written on linen.” This makes the Shroud an invaluable artifact for understanding both history and theology.
The conversation explores early Christian persecution, secrecy surrounding relics, and the possible reason no Gospel mentions a burial cloth with an image. Breault also discusses Peter’s “sheet vision” in Acts 10 as a symbolic reference that may parallel the Shroud.
Another key topic is the biblical requirement for multiple witnesses. Breault describes how the empty tomb, the Shroud, and the Sudarium form three powerful testimonies pointing to the Resurrection.
Listeners will appreciate the blend of faith, history, and scientific reasoning. Breault shares why the Shroud continues to inspire researchers, believers, and scholars worldwide.
Duration:00:38:18
The Tomb Revealed
11/26/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell speaks with historian Massimo Paris for the third session of a remarkable deep dive into the archaeology of Calvary and the Tomb of Christ.
Massimo explains how Constantine and Helena identified the site of the Crucifixion and Resurrection through excavation in the 4th century. He describes the removal of Hadrian’s pagan temple, the discovery of Calvary, and the revealing of the burial cave. He also gives an in-depth overview of Constantine’s massive architectural project, which included the rotunda, basilica, courtyard, and the original edicule.
Listeners learn how archaeological evidence—wooden models, mosaics, ancient maps, and written accountsmatches the descriptions in the Gospels. Massimo shows how the angle of the burial bench, uncovered again in 2016, confirms its authenticity. This is the limestone slab where Jesus Christ was laid, wrapped in the Shroud of Turin.
He also describes the fracture in the rock of Calvary caused by the earthquake at the moment of Jesus’ death—visible today both above and within the chapel structure.
This episode brings together Scripture, archaeology, and history in a way that illuminates the central event of Christianity: the Resurrection.
Duration:00:53:33
Golgotha & the Tomb
11/24/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy R. Powell continues his discussion with Massimo Paris, researcher of medicine, archaeology, languages, and ancient Jerusalem. Paris offers a compelling walkthrough of the geography surrounding Golgotha and the tomb of Jesus Christ, using detailed reconstructions and archaeological evidence to illuminate the historical landscape.
Drawing from Josephus, the Gospels, and modern excavations, Paris explains how an ancient quarry became the location of Calvary on its eastern rise and the tomb on its western edge. He describes the Garden Gate, the first and second city walls, and how these features match biblical accounts stating Jesus suffered outside the gate.
Paris also examines the structure of first-century tombs. Citing studies of more than 900 burial caves, he notes that nearly all used square blocking stones, not round ones—clarifying a widespread misconception. He explains how the tomb’s single burial chamber and stone bench align precisely with early pilgrim reports and with Scripture describing the linen cloths and the encounter with angels.
The conversation also explores how sunlight could enter the tomb’s east-facing doorway, allowing the disciples to see inside. These insights provide a richer understanding of the setting of the Resurrection and support themes from The Only Witness.
This episode deepens the connection between archaeology, history, and faith and offers a clearer view of the world in which the Shroud of Turin emerged.
Duration:00:47:17
Calvary & The Tomb Revealed
11/20/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy Powell interviews long-time researcher and lecturer Massimo Paris, who has spent more than 30 years studying the archeology of ancient Jerusalem and its direct connection to the Passion of Jesus Christ.
Massimo explains how the remains of a massive stone quarry excavated by Father Virgilio Corbo and his team between 1970 and 1980 reveal the real geographical setting behind Calvary and the Tomb.
The eastern edge of this quarry contains the rocky outcrop of Golgotha, while its western edge holds a first-century arcosolium tomb that aligns perfectly with the Gospel description of Jesus Christ’s burial and Resurrection.
He breaks down the three types of first-century tombs, showing why only a niche tomb with a carved stone bench matches the Biblical account and the description of the two angels seen by Mary Magdalene.
Massimo also explains how the quarry floor became a cultivated garden, why the city walls matter, and how these findings support the narrative found in The Only Witness and the historical context of the Shroud of Turin.
This episode blends archeology, theology, and history to reveal a compelling case for the authentic locations tied to the crucifixion, burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Duration:00:54:44
Proof of God in Science?
11/6/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews Olivier Bonnasie, co-author of God, the Science, and the Evidence, a groundbreaking book that explores the rational and scientific reasons for believing in God.
Olivier discusses how scientific discoveries—such as the Big Bang, the fine-tuning of the universe, and the laws of thermodynamics—support the existence of a Creator.
Olivier shares his personal transformation from skepticism to belief, emphasizing the rational evidence that points to God. He explains that modern science, rather than negating the existence of God, actually confirms His existence through the remarkable order and fine-tuning in the universe.
From the beginning of time to the precise calibration of forces within the cosmos, these discoveries align with ancient theological insights about a Creator who is transcendent and outside of time and space.
Olivier discusses how the Shroud of Turin fits into this broader conversation about the evidence for God, offering a powerful symbol of Christ’s Resurrection. The conversation also delves into the philosophical and moral implications of a world that either has a Creator or exists by random chance.
Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, this episode offers an enlightening perspective on how science and faith can coexist.
Duration:00:36:47
The Double Sentence
10/10/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell interviews Italian researcher and author Marco Ginatta, born in Turin and dedicated to the study of the Holy Shroud for decades. Ginatta shares his deeply personal journey from scientist to theologian, inspired by his grandmother’s devotion to the Shroud.
He introduces his theory of the “double sentence with double penalty,” arguing that Jesus Christ was illegally condemned to both scourging and crucifixion—two punishments attested by the forensic marks on the Shroud of Turin. Ginatta and Powell discuss how the Shroud captures the transition between the material and immaterial—between body and Resurrection.
Listeners will also learn why the Shroud’s image can only be viewed from a distance, a phenomenon no artist could replicate. Ginatta explains why science must never separate from faith when studying the most sacred artifact of Christian history.
This conversation invites believers and skeptics alike to reflect on the intersection of physics, theology, and spiritual truth—revealing why the Shroud of Turin remains The Only Witness to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Duration:00:32:23
Lost Years of the Shroud
10/8/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell welcomes Alessandro Piana, one of Italy’s leading Shroud of Turin scholars. Together they investigate the mysterious “lost years” of the Shroud and expose recent media claims that question its authenticity.
Piana critically examines the Archeometry article that suggested the Shroud was a medieval bas-relief creation, pointing out scientific omissions such as blood evidence, linen composition, and pollen traces. He then dives into historical letters from Pope Innocent III and accounts from Robert de Clari to trace the Shroud’s path from Constantinople to Athens and finally to France.
Listeners will learn:
• Why the Pierre d’Arcis memorandum does not disprove the Shroud’s authenticity
• How crusader families and Templars may have protected the Shroud for 150 years
• What documents suggest about the Shroud’s presence in Athens in 1205
• How the Shroud bridges faith and history as evidence of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ
This episode unites theology, science, and forensic history—highlighting themes from The Only Witness, Guy Powell’s book on the Shroud of Turin.
Duration:00:22:31
Shroud Forgery or Truth?
9/23/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell speaks with Finnish researcher Teemu Hartikainen, founder and president of the Finnish Sindonology Society.
Hartikainen dives into one of the most debated documents in Shroud history: the 1389 memorandum by Bishop Pierre d’Arcis. Long cited as proof that the Shroud of Turin was a medieval forgery, Hartikainen explains why this claim doesn’t hold up.
Through detailed archival research, he reveals that the so-called “letter” is not a letter at all. Instead, it consists of two unfinished drafts dictated by the bishop. These drafts lack essential elements such as a date, signature, and polished Latin. Far from being official correspondence, they were likely internal notes, never intended for the Pope.
The episode also explores how later historians manipulated these drafts—adding a date stamp and altering translations—to make them appear as damning evidence against the Shroud. By mixing historical context with linguistic analysis, Hartikainen shows that these edits reshaped the meaning and fueled skepticism.
Beyond documents, the discussion uncovers the political and economic struggles of the time. With the Black Death devastating Europe and churches competing for pilgrims, the motivation behind d’Arcis’ complaints may have been financial survival rather than truth.
This thought-provoking conversation challenges long-standing assumptions and raises new questions about authenticity, faith, and history. Whether you approach the Shroud as evidence of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ or as a historical puzzle, Hartikainen’s insights provide clarity.
Duration:00:49:12
Shroud Secrets with Bertrand
9/18/2025
In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, host Guy R. Powell speaks with Jim Bertrand—renowned Shroud evangelist, researcher, and speaker. Together, they unpack key highlights from the 2025 Shroud Conference in St. Louis, where leading international scholars gathered to present new findings.
Jim shares the blessings of meeting experts, hearing powerful talks, and seeing fibers from the Shroud under microscopes. Among the most fascinating discoveries:
Bertrand explains how these findings connect science, history, and faith, offering believers and skeptics alike a deeper look into the mystery of the Shroud of Turin. He also reflects on the camaraderie among researchers, the role of the Shroud in evangelization, and the timeless truth that “the image on the Shroud is the natural consequence of a supernatural event.”
Don’t miss this conversation that bridges theology, research, and the enduring mystery of the Resurrection.
🎥 Click here to view the video: https://youtu.be/GVqFnI1ggLU
Duration:00:36:09