José Rizal wrote two novels that helped awaken a nation—but behind the familiar portraits and textbook lessons was a life filled with hidden conflicts, coded meanings, unfinished possibilities, and enduring mysteries.

Rizal Talks is a daily podcast in which friends Rico and Marco dive deep into the life, writings, relationships, travels, ideas, and legacy of José Rizal. From Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo to his letters, essays, exile, trial, and final days, every episode explores another piece of the man behind the monument.

Expect historical discussions, literary analysis, fresh theories, disputed stories, imaginative fan fiction, and conversations about the meanings readers may have overlooked. Rico and Marco separate documented history from interpretation and creative speculation while asking what Rizal’s work can still teach Filipinos today.

Whether you are a student, history enthusiast, Rizal scholar, or curious Filipino rediscovering the national hero, Rizal Talks offers an accessible new journey into the life of the man who helped write a nation into existence.

Historical interpretations and creative segments are identified whenever possible. Fan-fiction episodes are works of imagination and should not be treated as documented history.

Hosted by Rico and Marco. New episodes daily.

A HustleStudios Podcast Network production.