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In recent years El Paso, Buffalo, Charleston, and Overland Park have joined the list of cities where right wing extremists have committed mass killings. Racial hate and fascism are not new. From slave…

In recent years El P…

In recent years El Paso, Buffalo, Charleston, and Overland Park have joined the list of cities where right wing extremists have committed mass killings. Racial hate and fascism are not new. From slavery, into the civil war, Jim Crow, the civil rights era, onto the Oklahoma City bombing, Charlottesville and so on, right wing extremists have posed a threat to US society. But, what happens when a violent far right extremist decides to turn their back on the movement? Many of these people engage with Life after Hate an organization dedicated to helping people break free from hate and live compassi…

By the mid Nineteenth century Europeans had conquered or explored all of the Americas, Asia and even remote Pacific outposts that we know today as Australia, New Zealand, and Tahiti. But bizarrely one…

By the mid Nineteent…

By the mid Nineteenth century Europeans had conquered or explored all of the Americas, Asia and even remote Pacific outposts that we know today as Australia, New Zealand, and Tahiti. But bizarrely one area remained largely unexplored and it was right on Europe's doorstep: Sub Saharan Africa.  As you might expect, explorers, missionaries and of course colonialists soon made their way down South. They encountered new languages, customs, ethnic groups and evidence of previously unknown (to Europeans) civilizations. But more surprisingly, they also encountered a group of people who identified as …

Originally aired 2022.   In 1990, astronaut Steven Hawley deployed the Hubble telescope in space as part of the crew of the space shuttle Discovery. Kansas-born Hawley was among the civilians selecte…

Originally aired 202…

Originally aired 2022.   In 1990, astronaut Steven Hawley deployed the Hubble telescope in space as part of the crew of the space shuttle Discovery. Kansas-born Hawley was among the civilians selected to be part of the space program on the basis of his expertise in a specific area: astronomy. One of his subsequent trips into space involved completing maintenance on HST. More recently, he has used it at ground level during his research work. In this episode, I talk to Professor Hawley about Hubble, his time as an astronaut, and the impact of HST. Featuring: Professor Steven Hawley Music: Pixab…

Explore the captivating story of the Romanian revolution of 1989, a pivotal moment shaped by the country's rich history of resisting and embracing external influences. This intricate tapestry of event…

Explore the captivat…

Explore the captivating story of the Romanian revolution of 1989, a pivotal moment shaped by the country's rich history of resisting and embracing external influences. This intricate tapestry of events traces back to the second century AD when the Roman Emperor Trajan conquered the region, leaving an indelible mark in the form of plundered gold. Subsequent waves of invaders, including Goths, Huns, Bulgars, Magyars, and Ottomans, were met with fierce resistance, led by legendary figures like Vlad The Impaler. Each conqueror left behind a lasting Legacy, contributing to Romania's unique heteroge…

Mata Hari -- publicly portrayed as a mysterious Javan princess who became famous for her exotic dance routines and high profile affairs -- has become the poster child for twentieth century female espi…

Mata Hari -- publicl…

Mata Hari -- publicly portrayed as a mysterious Javan princess who became famous for her exotic dance routines and high profile affairs -- has become the poster child for twentieth century female espionage. The bombshell sex symbol who can seduce any man. The cunning and ruthless individual who will betray anyone to enrich herself as a double agent. She is model for the Bond femme fatales that have become a cinematic trope. But, is any of this true? In this episode I speak with historian Professor Tammy Proctor of Utah State University. During her research which has among other things yielded …

In 1912, the "unsinkable" jewel in the crown of White Star Line voyages -- The Titanic -- hit an iceberg and sunk on its maiden voyage. It is difficult to imagine how passengers enjoying the amenities…

In 1912, the "unsink…

In 1912, the "unsinkable" jewel in the crown of White Star Line voyages -- The Titanic -- hit an iceberg and sunk on its maiden voyage. It is difficult to imagine how passengers enjoying the amenities of this luxury liner would have reacted when suddenly they realized the vessel had become a floating coffin. Only a third of the passengers and crew survived the harrowing journey.  But, a touring exhibition now casts light on those passengers in an intimate and immersive manner. The Titanic Exhibition is currently on tour in Seattle, Washington. Visitors will gain access to over 200 artifacts f…

She has become the poster child for James Bond style cunning, honey-trap-setting, spying vixens but does reality match the myths around Mata Hari? In this upcoming episode I speak with Prof. Tammy Pro…

She has become the p…

She has become the poster child for James Bond style cunning, honey-trap-setting, spying vixens but does reality match the myths around Mata Hari? In this upcoming episode I speak with Prof. Tammy Proctor of Utah State University, author of Female Intelligence: Women and Espionage in the First World War. We discuss the Dutch girl who became a "Javan princess," a spy and ultimately a casualty of the first world war. Here is a sneak peak. 

Situated on the Mediterranean, just a short distance from Spain and the rest of Europe, Morocco attracts tens of millions of tourists every year. They flock to see the iconic mosques and bazaars.  Bu…

Situated on the Medi…

Situated on the Mediterranean, just a short distance from Spain and the rest of Europe, Morocco attracts tens of millions of tourists every year. They flock to see the iconic mosques and bazaars.  But there's another, much larger structure that you won't find in any tourist guides and is seldom talked about.  It's a 2700 kilometer long barrier wall constructed of dirt and brick that runs through the heart of the Sahara Desert.  And for the people living in its shadow, it's a symbol of an ongoing occupation and decades long period of oppression.  In this episode, I speak with Jacob Mundi, p…

In 1937, Kansas native and pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart sought to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the world. It was a daring adventure but one that ended in tragedy. Almost 9 deca…

In 1937, Kansas nati…

In 1937, Kansas native and pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart sought to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the world. It was a daring adventure but one that ended in tragedy. Almost 9 decades later, a company named Deep Sea Vision produced evidence of a plane closely resembling Amelia’s at the bottom of the Pacific. Recovery attempts are ongoing and offer the potential for resolution to the enduring mystery of how and where Amelia’s journey came to an end. However, this apparent discovery while exciting is just the latest in a series of theories – backed by photographs or eye…

An old Angolan proverb suggests it is the voyage not the ship that is important. And for the people of Angola the voyage has been a long one, from the era of the might Kongo empire, through the slave …

An old Angolan prove…

An old Angolan proverb suggests it is the voyage not the ship that is important. And for the people of Angola the voyage has been a long one, from the era of the might Kongo empire, through the slave trade, colonialism, an independence struggle, and more recently decades of civil war. Despite this, in 2015 the capital city Luanda was in was listed as the most expensive city in the world, But new high rises built off the back of an oil boom sit uncomfortably alongside squalid outskirts of the city in the former Portuguese colony.  In this episode I speak with Alex Vines OBE was a UN observer w…

Imagine one day being cast out of your society, subjected to violence or killed simply because you continue to participate in the traditional rituals and activities your community have practiced for g…

Imagine one day bein…

Imagine one day being cast out of your society, subjected to violence or killed simply because you continue to participate in the traditional rituals and activities your community have practiced for generations. It might sound extraordinary but as we’ve seen down the centuries this is what happens when age old activities are suddenly rebranded as witchcraft and it is something that is happening now  in the tropical paradise of Papua New Guinea. In today’s episode I speak with Papuan native Dr. Fiona Hukula a world renowned activist tackling gender-based violence. She worked for the Papuan…

Imagine an alien world where a creature could create a sonic boom simply by whipping its tail. Look no further as such creatures once roamed the Earth. This is just one remarkable discovery made by th…

Imagine an alien wor…

Imagine an alien world where a creature could create a sonic boom simply by whipping its tail. Look no further as such creatures once roamed the Earth. This is just one remarkable discovery made by the world renowned Paleontologist Philip J. Currie -- the man whose worked inspire Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park. In this episode, I speak with Philip J. Currie about feathered dinosaurs, long necked giants, his fascinating career and ongoing work. More info: Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum Philip J. Currie Bio: Philip J. Currie, born in Brampton, Ontario on March 13th, 1949, is a leading Canadi…

In 1986, anthropologist Patricia Wright arrived in the tropical paradise of Madagascar. Seemingly, she was hunting  a ghost: the greater bamboo lemur — then believed to be extinct. Lemurs predate h…

In 1986, anthropolog…

In 1986, anthropologist Patricia Wright arrived in the tropical paradise of Madagascar. Seemingly, she was hunting  a ghost: the greater bamboo lemur — then believed to be extinct. Lemurs predate humans by millions of years and have long been prevalent on Madagascar. In contrast, the first human settlers arrived on the Island within the last few thousand years. Despite our relatively short period of coexisting with these animals, human activities have contributed to their decline and — in some instances — apparent extinction. But, remarkably against all odds, the redoubtable Patricia Wr…

The Borat movies were a fun but far fetched parody right? Think again. The Central Asian nation of Turkmenistan is currently ruled by the clownish Gurbangulyýewiç Berdimuhamedow and his son Serdar. …

The Borat movies wer…

The Borat movies were a fun but far fetched parody right? Think again. The Central Asian nation of Turkmenistan is currently ruled by the clownish Gurbangulyýewiç Berdimuhamedow and his son Serdar. He has styled himself as an action hero. Unfortunately he isn't very good at racing, handling horses, firing guns, singing, dancing, weight lifting, rapping or any of the other "talents" he likes to demonstrate.  He is also a tyrant, presiding over an oppressive system of government that has seen untold numbers of political opponents thrown into horrific dungeons. How did he get the job? Well bec…

In 1994, Drocella Mugorewera was a young mother when Ethnic tensions between Hutu's and Tutsi's rooted in colonial divisions boiled over and led to a horrific genocide in Rwanda that cost up to one mi…

In 1994, Drocella Mu…

In 1994, Drocella Mugorewera was a young mother when Ethnic tensions between Hutu's and Tutsi's rooted in colonial divisions boiled over and led to a horrific genocide in Rwanda that cost up to one million lives. Drocella fled to the comparative safety of the war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo before returning home determined to mold a better society in Rwanda.  She quickly became a government minister focused on forging an inclusive and peaceful society from the ashes of horrific events. But, her hopes for the future were largely unfulfilled as the increasingly authoritarian regime of Pau…

Despite being orphaned at a young age, Simon Bolivar was far from an orphan Annie character. Born into a wealthy Criollo family in 1783, his Education continued before he made an extensive trip around…

Despite being orphan…

Despite being orphaned at a young age, Simon Bolivar was far from an orphan Annie character. Born into a wealthy Criollo family in 1783, his education continued before he made an extensive trip around Europe. While there, he was introduced to ideas of the enlightenment and events such as the French Revolution. Despite his ethnically Spanish roots, he returned to Venezuela determined to gain independence and establish a republic. In subsequent years he became involved in three separate Venezuelan republics whilst establishing himself as the de facto ruler of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, …

The DeCavalcante Crime Family of New Jersey were the inspiration for HBO's acclaimed Sopranos drama series. In this episode, I speak with one of their members: Aidan Gabor. He is a mafia henchman, tu…

The DeCavalcante Cr…

The DeCavalcante Crime Family of New Jersey were the inspiration for HBO's acclaimed Sopranos drama series. In this episode, I speak with one of their members: Aidan Gabor. He is a mafia henchman, turned DOJ informant and cop.  Gabor shares his origin story from his parents escape from Soviet occupied Budapest to his childhood descent into crime and his eventual redemption based on the Baha'i faith. Aiden Gabor is also the author of and autobiographical book linked below.  Guest: Aiden Gabor author of Conflicting Loyalties: My Life as a Mob Enforcer Turned DOJ Informant *This episode contai…

Rome's first and arguably greatest Emperor Octavian (Augustus) helped to evolve and expand the Roman Republic into an empire that encompassed France, parts of Germany, Asia Minor, Egypt and North Afri…

Rome's first and arg…

Rome's first and arguably greatest Emperor Octavian (Augustus) helped to evolve and expand the Roman Republic into an empire that encompassed France, parts of Germany, Asia Minor, Egypt and North Africa. But the seemingly all conquering Roman met his match in an African woman called Candace. Who was she? How did she come to be the de facto leader of the Kushites? How was she able to defeat Augustus and ensure an independence for her people that lasted for hundreds of years? In this episode, I speak with a subject matter expert Prof. Emeritus Stanley Burstein of California State University, Los…

Coming in May, I talk to Mafia gangster turned DOJ informant Aiden Gabor on Fascinating People, Fascinating Places.   Guest: Aiden Gabor author of Conflicting Loyalties: My Life as a Mob Enforcer Tur…

Coming in May, I tal…

Coming in May, I talk to Mafia gangster turned DOJ informant Aiden Gabor on Fascinating People, Fascinating Places.   Guest: Aiden Gabor author of Conflicting Loyalties: My Life as a Mob Enforcer Turned DOJ Informant Creative Commons License: Rebecca EvansTitleO Mio Babbino Caro - Rebecca Evans   DescriptionEnglish: O mio babbino caro - A track by Rebecca Evans. From the 1995 album Rebecca Cymraeg: O mio babbino caro - Trac gan Rebecca Evans. O'r albwm 1995 RebeccaPerformance date 1995 Record ID Sain SCD2105   This episode is sponsored by World History Encyclopedia, one …

In 1913, Albert Schweitzer, a respected theologian and organist left Alsace-Lorraine and made his way to the French colony of Gabon. As a newly qualified doctor, he decided to to use his skills to est…

In 1913, Albert Schw…

In 1913, Albert Schweitzer, a respected theologian and organist left Alsace-Lorraine and made his way to the French colony of Gabon. As a newly qualified doctor, he decided to to use his skills to establish a free hospital in a remote corner of the French Empire. Schweitzer eventually earned a Nobel prize for his humanitarian work and his hospital still stands today. Decades later, award winning author Eric Madeen followed in Schweitzer's footsteps and found himself in the now independent Gabon. While there he gained insight into Schweitzer's life and legacy while having extraordinary experien…

30 years ago the US brokered Oslo accords seemed to herald a new era of peaceful coexistence for Israelis and Palestinians. Yasser Arafat -- long demonized as a terrorist in the Tel Aviv, whilst being…

30 years ago the US …

30 years ago the US brokered Oslo accords seemed to herald a new era of peaceful coexistence for Israelis and Palestinians. Yasser Arafat -- long demonized as a terrorist in the Tel Aviv, whilst being hailed as a freedom fighter in Palestine -- shared a Nobel Peace Prize with Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and politician Shimon Peres.  30 years later, peace seems further away than ever before after  Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants' horrific 7 October attack on Israel provoked a response from Israel that caused South Africa to take Israel to court for allegedly committing genocide.  …

During the last 45 years, Iran has become synonymous with terrorism. While much of its direct, and indirect involvement in these acts is focused on Israel and the Middle East, plots involving Iran and…

During the last 45 y…

During the last 45 years, Iran has become synonymous with terrorism. While much of its direct, and indirect involvement in these acts is focused on Israel and the Middle East, plots involving Iran and its proxies have been uncovered in nations ranging from Denmark to Thailand. In this episode I speak with Matthew Levitt the Fromer-Wexler Senior Fellow at The Washington Institute and director of its Jeanette and Eli Reinhard Program on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. Previously he worked with both the FBI and the US State Department of the Treasury where he tackled financial crimes linked …

500 years ago Spanish conquistadors invaded the Incan Empire and slew Atahualpa -- the unfortunate who would prove to be the last Emperor. Due to his vast wealth -- largely in the form of gold -- trea…

500 years ago Spanis…

500 years ago Spanish conquistadors invaded the Incan Empire and slew Atahualpa -- the unfortunate who would prove to be the last Emperor. Due to his vast wealth -- largely in the form of gold -- treasure hunters have spent centuries searching in vain for lost treasure of the Incas.  Ecuadorian historian Tamara Estupiñán Viteri who among other things studied and then created a dictionary of the dialects spoken within the Incan Empire, also deciphered the "secret language of the Incas." This along with documents from the Spanish colonial period enabled her to piece together a treasure map of…

In February 2024, Alexei Navalny a Russian politician died in an Arctic Russian penal colony. At just 47 years old his death would have been surprising were it not for the fact the Russian secret serv…

In February 2024, Al…

In February 2024, Alexei Navalny a Russian politician died in an Arctic Russian penal colony. At just 47 years old his death would have been surprising were it not for the fact the Russian secret service FSB seemingly at the direction of Vladimir Putin had already tried and failed to kill him using a chemical weapon four years earlier. In this episode, I speak with Russian political expert David Satter. Formerly a Moscow correspondent for the Financial Times, and Soviet special correspondent for the Wall Street Journal. He was banned and expelled from Russian in 2013 after uncovering evidence …

Hundreds of years ago, it is believed a group of African migrants made their way South from the Remnants of the collapsing Mali Empire -- once ruled by the wealthiest human in history: Musa Mansa. The…

Hundreds of years ag…

Hundreds of years ago, it is believed a group of African migrants made their way South from the Remnants of the collapsing Mali Empire -- once ruled by the wealthiest human in history: Musa Mansa. These travelers eventually made their way to the South coast of what is now Ghana in North West Africa. They settled there but not on the land. Instead, they established a community in the middle of a river. Despite the ravages of war, the slave trade, and colonialism, these enterprising individuals didn't just survive they thrived. But today, their remarkable community faces new challenges that incl…

Wall Street Journal and Financial Times correspondent David Satter was expelled and banned from Russia after exposing corruption in Putin's regime. On 19 March he talks to  @FascinatingPeopleandPlace…

Wall Street Journal …

Wall Street Journal and Financial Times correspondent David Satter was expelled and banned from Russia after exposing corruption in Putin's regime. On 19 March he talks to  @FascinatingPeopleandPlaces  about the shocking death of #russian politician Alexie #navalny. We also discuss the #wagner group mutiny. The suspicious death of Wagner coup leader #yevgenyprigozhin, the war in #ukraine and #Russian threats to use #nuclearforce. Корреспондент Wall Street Journal и Financial Times Дэвид Саттер был выслан и запрещен въезд в Россию пос�…

On 31 August 1997, Diana Spencer the ex-wife of the now King Charles III of the United Kingdom was tragically killed in a car accident in Paris. Just 36 years old at the time, Diana left behind two yo…

On 31 August 1997, D…

On 31 August 1997, Diana Spencer the ex-wife of the now King Charles III of the United Kingdom was tragically killed in a car accident in Paris. Just 36 years old at the time, Diana left behind two young sons: William and Harry.  Her death sent a nation into mourning. Millions traveled to London in subsequent months to lay wreaths in her honor, and approximately one-third of the world's population watched her funeral on television. But while tragic, why were so many people so distraught over the sad passing of an individual that few of them had ever met? In this episode, I speak with Prof. Ma…

Western media reports on North Korea tend to focus on the nation's missile launches, nuclear weapons program, and involvement in illegal activities such as weapon and drug smuggling. The despotic regi…

Western media report…

Western media reports on North Korea tend to focus on the nation's missile launches, nuclear weapons program, and involvement in illegal activities such as weapon and drug smuggling. The despotic regime of the Kim Family are usually front and center in any reporting. But what about the millions of North Koreans living a dystopian nightmare under the regime? In this episode, I speak with Sokeel Park of Liberty in North Korea an organization that assists people wishing to escape the so-called hermit kingdom. The group also helps North Koreans settle abroad, sends information into North Korea, an…

MAJ Jason Wright was forced to choose between following military orders and honoring the Constitution when tasked with defending 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed at Guantanamo Bay. The governmen…

MAJ Jason Wright was…

MAJ Jason Wright was forced to choose between following military orders and honoring the Constitution when tasked with defending 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed at Guantanamo Bay. The government and media had identified KSM as the culprit and he had freely admitted his guilt. But did his apparent guilt warrant the denial of his rights and the dismissal of elements of the US Constitution? Jason thought not and put his career on the line as he sought to do his duty.  Aside from representing KSM, Jason also helped gain the release of a seemingly guilty but entirely innocent captive at Gua…

Journey back to the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration as we recount the epic expedition led by Englishman Robert Falcon Scott, who set his sights on reaching the elusive South Pole. This audacious q…

Journey back to the …

Journey back to the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration as we recount the epic expedition led by Englishman Robert Falcon Scott, who set his sights on reaching the elusive South Pole. This audacious quest represented not only a personal ambition but a monumental step for humanity in its pursuit of the southernmost point on Earth. Join us in this illuminating episode as we converse with Lizzie Meek, Programme Manager of Artefacts for The Antarctic Heritage Trust, a New Zealand-based charitable society. Through her expertise and the painstaking restoration efforts of her team, Lizzie provides un…

"In our eye-opening episode, we confront the harsh reality of modern slavery as revealed by a sobering 2022 report from the International Labor Organization. Shockingly, the report estimates that a st…

"In our eye-opening …

"In our eye-opening episode, we confront the harsh reality of modern slavery as revealed by a sobering 2022 report from the International Labor Organization. Shockingly, the report estimates that a staggering 50 million people worldwide are ensnared in this web of exploitation, with 28 million enduring the horrors of forced labor. While some of the most egregious cases, such as the plight of Uighurs detained in Chinese work camps and North Korean prisoners, have garnered global attention, the insidious issue of forced labor knows no borders. It's a global epidemic, silently lurking even in dev…

In this gripping episode, we delve into the remarkable story of Eric Maddox, the interrogator who played a pivotal role in the capture of Saddam Hussein. In 2003, as part of a Delta Force team operati…

In this gripping epi…

In this gripping episode, we delve into the remarkable story of Eric Maddox, the interrogator who played a pivotal role in the capture of Saddam Hussein. In 2003, as part of a Delta Force team operating under the Joint Special Operations Command, Eric embarked on a mission to track down Iraqi fugitives, including the elusive Saddam Hussein. Through tireless dedication, daring raids, and conducting interviews with over 300 detainees, Eric's relentless pursuit led to the historic moment when Saddam Hussein was finally located and arrested on December 13, 2003. Listen as Eric shares his experienc…

In this unusual and eye-opening episode, we dive headfirst into a topic that hadn't been on our radar until a surprising encounter with a female brothel owner from Nevada. Her story, which was feature…

In this unusual and …

In this unusual and eye-opening episode, we dive headfirst into a topic that hadn't been on our radar until a surprising encounter with a female brothel owner from Nevada. Her story, which was featured in a previous episode, piqued our curiosity and led us to explore a controversial and often divisive aspect of the modern world. While I had initially been working on the long-awaited Piers Gaveston episode, my conversation with "Kiki Smith" sparked a new level of intrigue. Her motivations, business acumen, and the unique dynamics of her industry, where she's in control of production, intrigued …

In October 2023, Hamas terrorists massacred Israeli civilians as well as many foreign tourists in an unprecedented attack. Consequently, the Israeli government under Netanyahu launched retaliatory str…

In October 2023, Ham…

In October 2023, Hamas terrorists massacred Israeli civilians as well as many foreign tourists in an unprecedented attack. Consequently, the Israeli government under Netanyahu launched retaliatory strikes on Gaza with manifold civilian deaths. Over 50 years ago, a similar attack at the Munich Olympics also led to severe repercussions for Palestinian civilians.  I am rebroadcasting this episode which was among the most listened to during the last two years, with the hope that 10, 15, or 50 years from now this complex and ongoing conflict may find a peaceful and equitable resolution for all par…

This was the most disturbing episode I have ever recorded. Vatican Exorcist Vincent Lampert is one of the most prominent Roman Catholic combatants of demons in the world. I was very anxious when I mad…

This was the most di…

This was the most disturbing episode I have ever recorded. Vatican Exorcist Vincent Lampert is one of the most prominent Roman Catholic combatants of demons in the world. I was very anxious when I made this episode as many people -- including a demonologist -- warned me I could provoke demonic forces. Thus far, I seem to have endured so I feel safe to reshare this episode. A few years ago, the Barna Group – a market research firm specializing in religious beliefs conducted a survey in which it emerged that more Americans believe Satan is real than believe in God. On a superficial level, the …

One of the most enjoyable interviews I have had over the past two years was with Prof. Margaret Schwartz from Fordham University about Eva Peron. Clearly, I wasn't alone as that episode was the most l…

One of the most enjo…

One of the most enjoyable interviews I have had over the past two years was with Prof. Margaret Schwartz from Fordham University about Eva Peron. Clearly, I wasn't alone as that episode was the most listened to of all episodes released within the last year. Next season, Prof. Schwartz will return with an episode on the late Lady Diana. But, in the meantime here is a chance for new listeners to hear the episode or for long-term listeners to get a refresher. In July 1952, some 3 million people gathered in the heart of the Argentine capital Buenos Aires. They had come to pay their last respects t…

Fascinating People, Fascinating Places returns in January. Here about the exciting new episodes in this preview.

Fascinating People, …

Fascinating People, Fascinating Places returns in January. Here about the exciting new episodes in this preview.

The new series of Fascinating People, Fascinating Places launches on 5 January 2024 with new episodes featuring the man who caught Saddam Hussein, the lawyer for the 9/11 mastermind, and much more. Bu…

The new series of Fa…

The new series of Fascinating People, Fascinating Places launches on 5 January 2024 with new episodes featuring the man who caught Saddam Hussein, the lawyer for the 9/11 mastermind, and much more. But in the interim, I am replaying five episodes that were selected by listeners as the best content over the last few years. If you're new to the show now is the time to catch up. If you're a long-term listener here is a chance to revisit some of the fan favorites.  Shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, I had the pleasure of speaking with WSJ veteran David Satter. He was expelled from Mos…

Join us in this fascinating episode as we explore the pioneering work of Brian Hodgson, a true trailblazer in the realm of sound. With a background as a composer and as a member of the renowned BBC Ra…

Join us in this fasc…

Join us in this fascinating episode as we explore the pioneering work of Brian Hodgson, a true trailblazer in the realm of sound. With a background as a composer and as a member of the renowned BBC Radiophonic Workshop, Brian left an indelible mark on the world of electronic music long before the era of modern computers and Artificial Intelligence. Discover the incredible journey of an actor and Royal Air Force veteran who rose to prominence at the BBC, laying the foundation for audio production in a time when Technology was limited compared to today's standards. As we anticipate the return of…

Step into the world of British actress Katy Manning as we journey through her illustrious career spanning over five remarkable decades. From captivating performances alongside celebrated stars like Ja…

Step into the world …

Step into the world of British actress Katy Manning as we journey through her illustrious career spanning over five remarkable decades. From captivating performances alongside celebrated stars like Jack Klugman, Derek Nimmo, and her partner Barry Crocker, Katy has left an indelible mark on stage and screen in the UK, US, and Australia. While her portfolio boasts a multitude of starring roles, Katy Manning is most fondly remembered for her iconic portrayal of Jo Grant in Doctor Who. As the loyal companion to the charismatic Jon Pertwee's Doctor, Katy contributed to the show's three-year golden …

Step back in time to 1956, a pivotal year when Soviet tanks rumbled into Budapest, determined to quell the Hungarian revolution. This historic event, occurring just months after a communist uprising i…

Step back in time to…

Step back in time to 1956, a pivotal year when Soviet tanks rumbled into Budapest, determined to quell the Hungarian revolution. This historic event, occurring just months after a communist uprising in Poland, served as a formidable test for the Soviets, who were still navigating the post-Stalin era. But the roots of this revolution stretch back decades, reaching as far as World War I and beyond. It introduced the world to compelling figures such as Imre Nagy and Janos Kadar while leaving a tragic imprint on the way subsequent protests in countries like Czechoslovakia in 1968 and Romania in 19…

Delve into the thought-provoking intersection of science and religion in this illuminating episode. While science and faith are often portrayed as adversaries, can they truly coexist harmoniously? Joi…

Delve into the thoug…

Delve into the thought-provoking intersection of science and religion in this illuminating episode. While science and faith are often portrayed as adversaries, can they truly coexist harmoniously? Join us as we engage in a fascinating conversation with Astrophysicist Jeff Zweerink, PhD, a Senior Research Scholar at Reasons To Believe. With notable publications including 'Who is Afraid of The Multiverse?,' Jeff presents a compelling perspective that challenges the notion of faith's incompatibility with science. He explores how scientific discoveries and theoretical concepts, such as the multive…

Join us on a journey through the bustling streets of New York City, where CUNY Law Professor Rebecca Bratspies found herself stuck in the labyrinthine traffic of the Major Deegan Expressway, a notorio…

Join us on a journey…

Join us on a journey through the bustling streets of New York City, where CUNY Law Professor Rebecca Bratspies found herself stuck in the labyrinthine traffic of the Major Deegan Expressway, a notorious thoroughfare. As the vehicles idled, her curiosity stirred—just who was this Major Deegan? A war hero, a distinguished military figure? Surely, there must be an intriguing story behind the namesake of this prominent roadway. In this episode, we delve into the captivating story of Professor Bratspies' quest, which led to her fascinating book, 'Naming Gotham.' Within its pages, she unravels the…

Al-Shabaab emerged as a force after the Ethiopian incursion into Somalia in support of the UN-recognized government in 2006. The militant, Salafist group later formalized a relationship with Al-Qaeda …

Al-Shabaab emerged a…

Al-Shabaab emerged as a force after the Ethiopian incursion into Somalia in support of the UN-recognized government in 2006. The militant, Salafist group later formalized a relationship with Al-Qaeda and has been described as the most active and dangerous Al-Qaeda affiliate in the world. In 2024, African Union troops are set to leave Somalia and turn control over to the national government. But will this be a repeat of the Afghanistan situation or can Somalia -- as their government claims -- eradicate Al-Shabaab by the end of the year? In this episode, I speak with US State Department veteran …

Meet the remarkable Michelle Manu, a trailblazing figure who holds a unique distinction as the first female fully qualified Lua martial artist in 200 years. But her journey goes beyond martial arts. I…

Meet the remarkable …

Meet the remarkable Michelle Manu, a trailblazing figure who holds a unique distinction as the first female fully qualified Lua martial artist in 200 years. But her journey goes beyond martial arts. In a captivating resume that reads like that of a superhero, Michelle boasts a 26-year legal career, Harvard Business School education, a Master's degree in Metaphysical Science, and a multifaceted career as a professional actress, martial artist, and dancer. Beyond her accomplishments, Michelle is a fierce advocate for women, a dedicated self-defense trainer, a passionate promoter of Hawaiian cult…

Discover the incredible journey of 'The Sound of Freedom,' a groundbreaking film that defied the odds, stunning Hollywood in 2023 by surpassing blockbuster hits like Indiana Jones and Mission Impossib…

Discover the incredi…

Discover the incredible journey of 'The Sound of Freedom,' a groundbreaking film that defied the odds, stunning Hollywood in 2023 by surpassing blockbuster hits like Indiana Jones and Mission Impossible. Produced on a minimal budget and overlooked by major studios, this cinematic triumph shines a spotlight on an important yet often overlooked and disturbing topic. In this episode, we delve into the powerful narrative of 'The Sound of Freedom,' which is based on the real-life rescue mission to save children from the clutches of sex traffickers. We had the privilege of interviewing the executive…

Travel back in time to September 3, 1939, when Australian Prime Minister Robert Menzies addressed the nation, setting the stage for Australia's inevitable involvement in World War II. While the call t…

Travel back in time …

Travel back in time to September 3, 1939, when Australian Prime Minister Robert Menzies addressed the nation, setting the stage for Australia's inevitable involvement in World War II. While the call to arms echoed a generation earlier during World War I, the landscape of this global conflict was vastly different. Unlike WWI, where the battlegrounds were primarily in Europe and Asia Minor, WWII saw Australians fighting closer to home in the Pacific and East Asia. As the Japanese forces invaded territories like Burma and Indochina, which were under the rule of Britain and France, Australia found…

Journey back to the late 60s and 70s as we follow the remarkable path of Robin Bartlett, a young man fresh out of college who unexpectedly found himself in Vietnam. Despite harboring different aspirat…

Journey back to the …

Journey back to the late 60s and 70s as we follow the remarkable path of Robin Bartlett, a young man fresh out of college who unexpectedly found himself in Vietnam. Despite harboring different aspirations for his life, duty called, and Robin rose to the occasion, stepping into a leadership role among fellow youthful soldiers. Robin's book, 'Vietnam Combat: Firefights and Writing History,' offers a candid and unfiltered account of his personal experiences during this tumultuous period in history. In this episode, we engage in a deeply moving conversation with Robin, delving into the harrowing i…

Join us in a captivating journey through the annals of history as we uncover the life and intriguing influence of Piers Gaveston, the close confidant of King Edward II of England. In this episode of o…

Join us in a captiva…

Join us in a captivating journey through the annals of history as we uncover the life and intriguing influence of Piers Gaveston, the close confidant of King Edward II of England. In this episode of our historical podcast, we delve into the enigmatic figure who played a significant role in the medieval courts of England. In this in-depth exploration, we'll discuss: Piers Gaveston's early life and rise to prominence His close relationship with King Edward II and the controversy it stirred The political and social dynamics of 14th-century England Gaveston's impact on the realm and the nobility T…

Certainly! Here's an SEO-friendly description for your podcast episode on the Tariq-al Fatash and the historical context in Mali: Title: "Tariq-al Fatash: Mali's Complex History and the Preservation o…

Certainly! Here's an…

Certainly! Here's an SEO-friendly description for your podcast episode on the Tariq-al Fatash and the historical context in Mali: Title: "Tariq-al Fatash: Mali's Complex History and the Preservation of its Rich Heritage | Historical Perspectives Podcast" Description: In this thought-provoking episode, we journey to West Africa's Mali, a nation that has recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons. From an ongoing Jihadist insurgency to political instability leading to a military coup and the complex dynamics with former colonial power France, Mali's contemporary challenges are widely know…