Latest podcasts

Episode 437-Interview w/ Scott Simon about his book Swingtime for Hitler and then Operation Jubilee

A Two Episode Special! First, NPR's Scott Simon comes on to talk about Swingtime for Hitler: From Goebbels’s Jazzmen to Tokyo Rose to AI, the...

Episode 436-Retreat, Yes! But How?

Operation Jubilee has failed, but now the men have to be rescued. Yet the Germans are determined not to let a single man, ship or plane leave...

Episode 435-2 Episode Special! Interview w/John C. McManus about his Pacific War Trilogy and we continue with Operation Jubilee

Military Historian John C. McManus comes on to discuss his US Army in the Pacific Trilogy. Then, the Rileys come ashore at White Beach, but it goes...

Episode 434-Red Beach: To Move is to Die

As the flanking attacks to either side of Dieppe have had mixed results, it’s now time for the direct attack on the town. Here, the Germans are well...

Episode 433-Two Episode Special! Interview w/ Andrew Nagorski about Saving Freud and then back to Operation Jubilee

First, interview w/ Andrew Nagorski about his latest book, Saving Freud, The Rescuers Who Brought Him to Freedom and then we continue with the...

Episode 432-Blood on Blue Beach

Now that the two attacking flanks had landed men, one went well, the other was a debacle, it was time to land men at Blue Beach, just east of...

Episode 431-The Father and Mother of All Explosions

The Commandos land on the far flanks of Dieppe. The attack at the Orange Beaches will see their initial objectives met, but men will be lost. As for...

Episode 430-Interview w/Tom Holm about his book, Ira Hayes: the Akimel O’odham Warrior, WWII and the Price of Heroism

Professor Tom Holm discusses Ira Hayes, his time with the Marines, his fighting on Iwo Jima and Mt. Suribachi and his tragic life after the raising...

Episode 429-It Only Takes One Little Mistake

As the 200 plus ships of Operation Jubilee reach the French coast, a single event occurs, ruining all the plans of Combined Operations. Still, the...

Episode 428-Churchill’s Shell Game

A desperate Churchill green lights the raid on Dieppe. And though it has been scaled back to avoid entanglements with panzers, it is still complex...

Episode 427-Operation Rudder-Less

The Dieppe Raid planning continues as Churchill needs something to show the Americans and Soviets. The Canadians are tapped to assist the Commandos...

Episode 426-Kill Or Be Killed

With Lord Mountbatten in charge of Combined Operations, the plan to soften up the enemy’s coastline defenses is underway. But there is much to learn...

Episode 425-Here Come the Commandos

In building up to Operation Sledgehammer, Mountbatten’s arrival is a whirlwind for Combined Operations. Their numbers will grow as will the number...

Episode 424-Operation Sledgehammer

Operation Pedestal would ensure that Malta stayed in the fight. But Stalin is not appeased. He wants a Second Front. So does Gen. George Marshall...

Episode 423-Pedestal: The Final Curtain

The final episode of Operation Pedestal. Through luck and determination and American engineering, the Ohio holds together long enough, to bring her...

Episode 422-By the Skin of Her Teeth

As everyone on Malta, and in Britain and in the US and in North Africa wait, the tanker Ohio, carrying much needed oil to the island, slowly crawls...

Episode 421-It’s Today or Nothing

When the sun rises on August 14th, the Stuka’s and Italian bombers are back. It would only take one bomb landing true to break the Ohio in half. But...

Episode 420-Interview w/ James B. Conroy about his book, The Devils Will Get No Rest

As the Americans enter the war after the events of Pearl Harbor, the Western Allies have to decide how to fight the war. The Americans have the...

Episode 419-Across the Finish Line

Some of the merchant ships enter Grand Harbor and Adm. Burrough turns around to make for Gibraltar. But the Maltese notice that only three ships...

Episode 418-The Show Must Go On

As the escorting destroyers fill up with rescued crewmen, now it’s the Ohio’s turn as her engines give up the ghost. But the men in this story are...

Episode 417-Interview w/ Craig Nelson about his book V is For Victory

Craig Nelson's book V is For Victory has it all: FDR's early days of combatting the Great Depression, restoring faith in the country and gearing up...

Episode 416-The Terrifying Had Become Commonplace

When the sun rose on August 13th, the Axis forces in the Mediterranean knew they had one last day to stop Operation Pedestal. As such, the Axis air...

Episode 415-Ships That Sink In The Night

Within a four hour period of darkness, Pedestal will lose many ships. By morning, 7 of the 14 merchants were gone. Still if the rest can get...

Episode 414-In the Lap of the Gods

As August 13th turns into the 14th, more ships of Pedestal are lost. Some fought bravely during their last moments, other’s not. But Adm. Syfret’s...

Episode 413-I Was Always Grateful to Mussolini

The ships of Pedestal have entered The Narrows. Waiting for them are Italian E-boats that rule the night. But Keith Park, Malta’s Air Arm commander,...

Episode 412-Courage and Cowardice

Churchill visits Stalin for the first time, only to give him bad news. There will be no Second Front in 1942. Then, back to Pedestal as the merchant...

Episode 411-The Deadly Game of Dodge Bomb

As Pedestal nears the Narrows, more escorts and merchant ships are lost to Axis planes and submarines. The convoy had been laid on heavily, to make...

Episode 410-Four Torpedoes Can Make All the Difference

As Force Z leaves Force X and Pedestal to their fate, Italian subs and torpedo boats line up in the narrow Sicilian Narrows to finish off the...

Episode 409-Will This Day Never End?

It’s still August 12, 1942 and after two large attacks, the Axis now launch their main attack, that afternoon. There were to be Axis dive bombers,...

Watch Ray Harris jnr on ‘In the Hanger’ on the Taking Off YouTube Channel

Ray Harris Jnr joins host Daniel Millican on the Taking Off YouTube Channel to cover one of the 'Best' and also 'Worst' pilots from WWII.

Episode 408-Operation Pedestal: One Hell of an Afternoon

The early afternoon of August 12th would be hell for the defenders of Pedestal. Several air attacks take place, in between U-boat attacks. And the...

Episode 407-Interview w/Chloe Melas about Frank Murphy’s book: Luck of the Draw

Chloe Melas, granddaughter of the author, comes on to discuss the book, Luck of the Draw. Frank Murphy, a navigator was shot down and became a POW...

Episode 406-Operation Pedestal: One Hell of a Morning

It’s August 12, 1942 and it’s a beautiful day. Which makes Axis reconnaissance flights ideal. Soon, Rome knows all it needs to and its various...

Episode 405-Operation Pedestal: Slow Gets You Killed

HMS Furious having delivered its Spitfires to Malta, turns around with its escort. But they are not out of danger yet. Meanwhile, as the ships of...

Episode 404-Operation Pedestal: First Blood

Churchill pushes to have the largest convoy thus far, sent to Malta. Yet the Germans and Italians are ready. Before the Merchantmen and the tanker...

Introducing Grey History Podcasts: The French Revolution

Join me in listening to the first episode of William Clark's exploration of The French Revolution, from Grey History Podcasts. Clark goes deep and...

Episode 403-Rommel is Stopped in His Tracks

Rommel gathers his panzers in the south for another attack. But he has gone to the well, one time too many. Monty predicts this and plans his own...

Episode 402-Monty Sets the Stage for Rommel

Monty comes to grips with the type of fighter Rommel is and plans accordingly. More men are brought forward and a trap is set for the Axis forces....

Episode 401-Interview with Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch about The Nazi Conspiracy & Churchill Gives British 8th Army to Monty

First, Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch come to discuss The Nazi Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Roosevelt, Stalin and Churchill. For the second...

Episode 400-The Second Battle of Ruweisat Ridge

Though both sides are depleted, Churchill wants Auchinleck to attack again, so he does. As not much has changed, the result is another loss of men,...

Episode 399-The First Battle of Ruweisat Ridge

With the First Battle of El Alamein over, the two generals settle for smaller battles while their reinforcements arrive. C in C, ME Auchinleck will...

Episode 398-First Battle of El Alamein

With the First Battle of El Alamein, Rommel’s building desperation clashes with Auchinleck’s determination to finally make a stand. But it’s the...

Episode 397-Interview w/ Iain MacGregor: The Lighthouse of Stalingrad & Prelude to the 1st Battle of El Alamein

Another 2 Episode Special! First, my interview with Iain MacGregor about his book, The Lighthouse at Stalingrad: The Hidden Truth at the Heart of...

Episode 396-The Battle of Mersa Matruh

As Tobruk has fallen, the next defensive line is set up at Mersa Matruh, but C in C, ME Auchinleck has little faith in Gen. Ritchie’s latest plan....

Episode 395-The Gazala Gallop

With Tobruk lost, 8th British Army falls back to the Egyptian border. But C in C Claude Auchinleck is still not convinced that they are safe from...

Episode 394-Warrior Next Door Podcast Interview & Tobruk Has Fallen

First, Ryan Fairfield and Tony Lupo, the hosts of The Warrior Next Door Podcast return to share more clips of WWII Veterans and their experiences....

Episode 393-Interview w/ James Shone: Host of Taiwan Through Time Podcast & Operation Harpoon

Two Episode Special! James Shone comes on to share what Taiwan, then Formosa, was going through during, but also, before the war. Then, as Rommel...

Episode 392-Interview w/ Dr. Paul Gill Jr: Armageddon in The Arctic Ocean and Tobruk is Surrounded

Another two episode special! First, Dr. Paul Gill Jr. comes on to talk about his dad’s book about his life and war time adventures, Armageddon in...

Ep 291: Two Episode Special! Interview w/ Taylor Downing about his book 1942: Winston Churchill and Britain’s Darkest Hour and then, The British 8th Army is Outfoxed

First, historian Taylor Downing comes on to talk about his new book, 1942: Winston Churchill and Britain’s Darkest Hour and then we pick up with...

Episode 390-The Battle of Knightsbridge Box

With the Battle of Bir Hakeem over Rommel is ready to drive on Tobruk, but first he has to get passed the Knightsbridge Box, where the 2nd and 4th...

Episode 389-Interview w/ Saul David about his book Devil Dogs

Historian Saul David talks about his latest book, Devil Dogs: From Guadalcanal to the Shores of Japan.  King Company of the legendary 1st...

Bad Women: The Blackout Ripper

Here’s a preview of Bad Women: The Blackout Ripper. Over a single week in February 1942, a depraved serial killer stalked London’s dark and WWII...

Episode 388-The Battle of Bir Hakeem: The Redemption of French Honor

Now that the Battle of the Cauldron was over, Rommel could come for the Free French at Bir Hakeem, to his SW. With this outpost removed, Africa...

Episode 387-The Battle of The Cauldron

Rommel anticipates British 8th Army’s attack and prepares. The attack, Operation Aberdeen is launched, but will come to a sad end. This allows...

Episode 386-Damien Lewis discusses his book, Agent Josephine: American Beauty, French Hero, British Spy

Writer Damien Lewis returns to discuss his latest book about the beautiful Josephine Baker. She has found everything she wanted in France, but soon...

Episode 385-The Cauldron

Rommel’s lunge at Tobruk causes his panzers to get trapped. So the Desert Fox changes his plans and 8th Army Commander Ritchie gives Rommel days of...

Episode 384-The English GI: A Yorkshire Schoolboy’s Adventures in the US and Europe

This graphic novel by Jonathan Sandler covers the story of a young Jewish British citizen on vacation in NY when Pearl Harbor is attacked. Soon he...

Episode 383-Rommel Comes For Tobruk

The day of battle is here. Both sides have made flawed plans. The question is who can adapt faster. Still, the first phase of the Battle of Gazala...

Episode 382-Dale Jenkins discusses The Battles of Coral Sea and Midway

Retired Naval Officer Dale A. Jenkins, who served in the Pacific has a book coming out in December: Diplomats and Admirals. Today he sets up and...

Episode 381-The Battle at Gazala: The Waiting is All

As The Allies and Axis prepare for a battle at Gazala, Rommel and Gen. Ritchie both feel confident that their plan is best. Yet both sides have...

Episode 380-The British 8th Army vs The Desert Fox

Rommel is able to take Cyrenaica back from the British 8th Army, but between his fuel issues and C in C, ME Auchinleck’s personnel changes, the two...

Episode 379-Rommel Strikes Back

With the failure of Gen. Auchinleck's Operation Crusader, at the end of 1941, Rommel resupplies and heads out again, before the British can start...

Episode 378-West Africa and Charles De Gaulle

Before moving on to Operation Pedestal and then the Eastern Front, Gen. Charles De Gaulle’s moves in West Africa have to be covered. He seeks to...

Episode 377-Iceland: A Peaceful Invasion

In this one off episode, Iceland and Greenland’s participation in the war is covered. Denmark leads these two islands to the north, but when Nazi...

Episode 376-The Falcon of Malta

In the mold of Adrian Warburton, one George Beurling comes to Malta in July. Like Warby, George or Screwball as he is called, does not care for much...

Episode 375-Starvation and Betrayal

Lord Gort will have his own Quisling to deal with as a Malta youth comes ashore to spy for Mussolini. Meanwhile, another convoy is attempted, but it...

Episode 374-Churchill: Malta’s Patron Saint

As Field Marshall Kesselring loses some of his planes to other theaters, Malta, thanks to Churchill, gets a large influx of Spitfires. The defenders...

Episode 373-Malta: A Thunderstorm of Steel

As April 1942 comes to an end, a spot of hope is dashed as the Axis continue their daily bombing of Malta. The ships and subs have been driven away,...

Episode 372-Malta Loses A Hero

As Field Marshall Albert Kesselring ramps up his attacks on Malta, Adm. Andrew Cunningham and others will leave the theatre as they are beyond...

Episode 371-Interview w/ Thomas McKenna about his book Moro Warrior

MORO WARRIOR tells the remarkable true story of the Philippine Muslim (Moro) resistance fighters of World War II—the most successful and least-known...

Episode 370-Interview w/ Peter Bradley about his book, The Last Train: A Family History of the Final Solution

Former Labour MP Peter Bradley discusses his book that covers the events of his Jewish parents and extended family, as they try to stay one step...

Car Show! Episode: The Jeep During WWII

We’re shaking things up today and sharing a preview from Car Show!, a new podcast from our friends at Pushkin Industries. Longtime Car and Driver...

Ep 369-Interview w/ Paul Brandus about FDR’s Use of Media and Midway

Writer and White House Correspondent Paul Brandus comes on the show to cover FDR's brilliant use of the media, before Pearl Harbor. Also, we discuss...

Episode 368-Interview w/ Damien Lewis about his book, Churchill’s Great Escapes: Seven Incredible Escapes Made by WWII Heroes

Writer Damien Lewis comes on the show to discuss his new book Churchill's Great Escapes: Seven Incredible Escapes Made by WWII Heroes. During the...

Episode 367-The Second Battle of Sirte

Desperate, Adm. Cunningham arranges another convoy for Malta. But the Italian Fleet and German Air Arm are ready. The result, a tiny fraction of...

Episode 366-Interview w/ Brandon Gauthier about his book, Before Evil

Professor Brandon Gauthier comes on to discuss his book Before Evil, where he examines the making of 20th Century’s greatest tyrants. He reminds us...

Episode 365-The Spitfires are Coming!

The RAF on Malta actually run out of Hurricane fighters on March 3rd. Fortunately, the promised Spitfires arrive. But how are 15 Spitfires supposed...

Episode 364-Mussolini’s PR Nightmare

As 1942 opens up the Axis have the upper hand. Still, those in London make plans to invade Sicily. What follows only fills up Davie Jones' locker...

Episode 363-Guest Host Lindsay Graham of History Daily Recounts the Attack on Pearl Harbor

The host of several well known podcasts, Lindsay Graham, of History Daily, American Scandal and American History Tellers, is allowing me to share...

Episode 362-Interview w/ Michael Benson about his book Gangsters vs Nazis

Author Michael Benson comes on the show to talk about his latest book, Gangsters vs Nazis: How Jewish Bobsters Battled Nazis in Wartime America....

Episode 361-Interview w/ Edward Aldrich: The Partnership: George Marshall, Henry Stimson and the Extraordinary Collaboration That Won WWII.

Edward Aldrich comes on the show to discuss his book that covers the highly effective teamwork of Secretary of War Henry Stimson and Army Chief of...

Episode 360-The Germans Have Returned

As winter sets in on the Eastern Front, Field Marshal Albert Kesselring is given Luftflotte 2, submarines and motor torpedo boats. His task is to...

Episode 359-All Good Things Must Come to an End

As the war goes on, some key personnel leave Malta, heading for new assignments or some much needed rest. But as winter comes, Hitler will send his...

Episode 358-The Saturday Night Club Run

Adm. Cunningham is given Force K, a gift from Churchill. And right away Force K will prove itself by annihilating an entire convoy, looking to...

Episode 357-Operation Halberd

Malta based subs and planes are having a surge of success against Axis shipping heading to North Africa, but increased operations means more fuel is...

Episode 356-Interivew with Philip Martin about his book-From Orphan to High Flyer

Philip Martin comes on the show to talk about the book he wrote with RAF Pilot Denis Elliott. Denis' early life was full of pain, which caused a...

Episode 355-Interview with Robert Child about his book Immortal Valor

Robert Child, an Emmy® Nominated Producer / Director comes on the show to discuss his latest book, Immortal Valor. The Black Medal of Honor winners...

Episode 354-The Battle of Valletta

Though Operation Substance successfully resupplies Malta, the Allies lost planes, ships and men. What followed was the Battle of Valletta, as the...

Episode 353-Malta’s Magic Carpet Service

Adm. Cunningham begins to believe that he may loose Malta. The Germans are gone, but he only has half his normal fleet and the Axis are not slowing...

Episode 352-Interview with Ray Boomhower about his book-Richard Tregaskis:Reporting Under Fire from Guadalcanal to Vietnam

Ray Boomhower has written about 3 important war correspondents, Richard Tregaskis, Ernie Pyle and Robert L. Sherrod. Today we discuss the young...

Episode 351-Interview with Scott Rank of The History Unplugged Podcast

Scott Rank comes on the show to discuss the more impactful events of the Pacific Campaign: The East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere, The Battle of Midway,...

Episode 350-Operation Primrose

As the Battle for the Atlantic is not going well for the Allies, Churchill’s War Cabinet puts into motion a plan to steal a Nazi Enigma machine....

Episode 349-Malta’s Orders: KBO-Keep Buggering On!

With Crete falling so quickly, Churchill and Adm. Cunningham have to assume that Malta is next. Still, ABC expects his subs, like the Upholder, to...

Episode 348-Interview with Scott Bury about his Eastern Front Trilogy

Author Scott Bury joins us to talk about his Eastern Front Trilogy. The story centers around Maurice Bury, a Canadian who is forced to fight for...

Episode 347-Malta: Dark Days are Coming

We return to Malta as Adm. Cunningham is at his low point. Churchill wants total war, but Cunningham needs more of everything, including time. The...

Episode 346A-The Everything Everywhere Daily Podcast

Today's offering is an episode from Gary Arndt's Podcast, Everything Everywhere Daily. On this show, he covers the important contribution of Native...

Episode 346-Interview with the Hosts of The Warrior Next Door Podcast

Today on the show, I talk to Tony Lupo and Ryan Fairfield about their show, The Warrior Next Door Podcast. Listen to the oral histories of World War...

Episode 345-Interview with Joe Lee about his book Forgiveness

Artist Joe Lee comes on the show to talk about his book, Forgiveness: The Story of Eva Kor, Survivor of The Auschwitz Twin Experiments. Find out...

Episode 344-Interview with Prof. Jeffrey Jackson about his book, Paper Bullets

Jeffrey Jackson, professor of history at Rhodes College comes on the show to tell us about Lucy and Suzanne’s courage in defying the nazi occupation...

Episode 343-Interview with Ambassador David McKean about his book, Watching Darkness Fall

Former Ambassador to Luxembourg and before that, the Director of Policy Planning at the US department of State, Ambassador McKean is currently the...

Episode 342-Interview with Jack Fairweather about his book, A Rebel In Auschwitz

War reporter Jack Fairweather comes on to discuss his latest book A Rebel in Auschwitz. The story is of Witold Pilecki, a member of the Polish...

Episode 341- Battle of the Tarigo Convoy.

PM Churchill wants Adm. Andrew Cunningham to sink supply ships heading for Rommel's North African Army. Cunningham wants more ships, but is told to...

Episode 340-Interview with Chris Berman

Writer and lecturer Chris Berman joins us to discuss the Night Witches, the female soviet pilots, cultural perceptions of warfare and the lady...

Episode 339-The Battle of Cape Matapan

The Luftwaffe keeps trying different types of bombs until they find one that works well against Maltese buildings. And their Bf109 fighters are...

Episode 338-The Siege of Malta Begins

Churchill wants the Italians hit hard as the German's begin bombing Malta almost daily. This will include Operation Colossus and Commander Shrimp's...

Episode 337-The Illustrious Blitz

After the successful raid against the Italy Naval Fleet at Taranto, Cunningham and Churchill wonder when the Italians will strike back and when...

Episode 336-With A Friend Like Mussolini

Malta goes stronger each day, with Churchill's help and Adm. Cunningham's persistence. Still, the clouds grow darker as Mussolini invades Greece,...

Episode 335-Churchill Wants War

As Malta is pounded by Mussolini's Air Force, PM Churchill is determined not to give up on the island or any of the Mediterranean Sea. And Adm....

Episode 334-All Roads Go Through Malta

For thousands of years, Malta has had numerous masters. But as WWII seems inevitable, the British and Maltese people come together to ready...

Episode 333-The Doolittle Raid Pt 4: The Pacific War Takes Shape

As most of Doolittle's Raiders make it home safely, one crew is soon in Stalin's hands and two others are captured by the Japanese. After this, go...

Episode 332-The Doolittle Raid Pt 3: Japan’s Pearl Harbor

This episode covers the flight paths of the 16 Doolittle Raiders. A solid hour of hell is visited upon The Japanese Empire. Adm. Yamamoto and his...

Episode 331-The Doolittle Raid Pt 2

As TF 16 under Admirals Halsey and Mitscher sail closer to the Japanese Home Islands, the Allies’ naval forces loose several vessels. It’s no longer...

Episode 330-The Doolittle Raid Pt 1

President Roosevelt, like the rest of America is reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. But his shock is soon joined by rage. He wants the...

Episode 329-The Fall of Corregidor

Gen. Wainwright has set up his defenses for Corregidor as best he can, still, all involved know the outcome. It’s only a matter of playing it out,...

Episode 328-The Fall of Mindanao

After Gen. Edward King’s surrender of Bataan, the Japanese focus on Corregidor and the three smaller islands below it. And now that the Battle of...

Episode 327-The Fall of Bataan

Generals Wainwright, King and Parker are seriously considering surrendering. The problem is that Gen. MacArthur has forbidden it. But the facts of...

Episode 326-Interview with Rob Lofthouse about his book Honor Through Sacrifice

Gordon Joseph Lippman was only 18 years old when he joined the army in 1943. Earning a spot in the 517th Parachute Regimental Combat Team, he would...

Episode 325-Bataan-The Beginning of the End

During the second battle of Bataan, Gen. Homma has a specific plan, whereas the Allies are simply trying to hold onto their defensive line. But the...

Episode 324-The Second Battle of Bataan

Gen. Homma, now resupplied and reinforced, will come again. But this time, with MacArthur gone, the Japanese will face Gen. Edward P. King. And he...

Episode 323-Bataan: The Readiness is All

As Gen. Homma’ reinforcements come in, his confidence grows. Yet his plan to conquer southern Bataan and Corregidor is flawed. Meanwhile, Gen....

Episode 322-The Battling Bastards of Bataan

As Gen. Homma, commander of the Japanese forces in The Philippines brings in reinforcements and food, the American Government is finding it all but...

Episode 321-MacArthur I Shall Return

MacArthur finishes up his escape from Corregidor to Melbourne Australia. But the news waiting for him is not the General’s liking, basically, there...

Episode 320-MacArthur’s Great Escape Pt 1

It's time for MacArthur to leave Corregidor, but how? Submarine, plane or boat. MacArthur chooses an early departure over safety, thus he and his...

Episode 319-How Do You Solve a Problem Like MacArthur?

With the war of Bataan coming to a standstill, FDR and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Marshall start to think of the future. MacArthur is too...

Episode 318-Battle of the Pockets Pt 2

During the Battle of the Points, Gen. Homma would attack Gen. Wainwright's western line. This allowed 1000 Japanese troops to get through. The...

Episode 317-Battle of the Pockets Pt 1

Gen. Homma has decided to hit the Allied line in two sections. Which means, in Gen. Parker's I Corps, on the eastern side of the Bataan Peninsula,...

Episode 316-FDR: The Man with No Fear

I am joined today by Richard Lim, host of This American President Podcast to discuss Franklin Roosevelt. Now that the Japanese have struck at Pearl...

Episode 315-Battle of the Points

In attempting to smash MacArthur’s line on the Bataan Peninsula, Gen. Homma will send several amphibious end runs behind the lines. If all works out...

Episode 314-The Battle of Bataan

Gen. Homma sends his forces at MacArthur's defensive line on Bataan. For days the line holds, until it doesn't. Falling back, the Allied try to keep...

Episode 313-Retreat to Bataan

As Gen. Jonathan Wainwright conducts the battle of the 5 lines, Gen. Douglas MacArthur declares Manila an open city and continues to beg Washington...

Episode 312-Bataan or Bust

With the defenses of Lingayen Gulf shattered, Gen. MacArthur has decided to retreat to the Bataan peninsula, though there are no waiting supplies...

Episode 311-Gen. Douglas MacArthur: Defending the Indefensible

With MacArthur’s alteration to the American defensive plan for the Philippines left in tatters, he reverts back to Plan Orange: to move all...

Episode 310-December 22, 1941: A Date Which Will Live in Infamy

The main Japanese attack comes to Luzon on December 22nd, but Gen. Douglas MacArthur is overly confident. Besides, Gen. George Marshall is unable to...

Episode 309-MacArthur: Between a Rock and a Hard Place

As northern and southern Luzon becomes Japanese controlled territory, Gen. Douglas MacArthur finds himself trapped, besides which, his air arm has...

Episode 308-War Comes to The Philippines

Even with a seven hour warning Gen. Douglas MacArthur seems paralyzed by the shocking news from Pearl Harbor. Commander of the air forces in The...

Episode 307-Prelude to the Fall of The Philippines

With the Japanese Empire deciding to invade to the south, the American fighters and bombers, under Gen. Douglas MacArthur's command in The...

Episode 306-Gen. Slim Regroups, Gen. Stilwell Retreats

As Gen. William Slim deals with the remains of Burma Corps, the American general Joseph "Vinegar Joe" Stilwell also has to find a way out. But the...

Episode 305-Isn’t That Burma Army Annihilated Yet?

Gen. William Slim and Burma Corps finally reach India, as does several Chinese divisions. However the Battle of the Basin has to be fought first....

Episode 304-Mistakes Were Made, Men Died

Gen. William Slim and Burma Corps continue their retreat. But as hunger, fatigue and the coming Monsoons press down on the British General, his...

Episode 303-The Battle of Mandalay

The British led forces are retreating from Burma. But first they must get to Mandalay and across the Ava Bridge there, all the while keeping the...

Episode 302-Interview with Lesley Blume about her book: Fallout

Lesley MM Blume joins us to tell of the US Government coverup of the effects of the Atomic Bomb. The book: Fallout: The Hiroshima Cover Up and the...

Episode 301-The Great Retreat Begins

It’s the beginning of the end for the Allied defense of Burma. While Gen. Slim’s men are pushed back, their Chinese Allies in the Shan States of...

Episode 300-Battle of Yenaungyaung

Gen. William Slim will have to use all his experience and cunning to survive this latest defeat and retreat. In the balance is the entire 1st Burma...

Episode 299-Interview with Michel Paradis about his book Last Mission to Tokyo

Michel Paradis joins us to talk about his book, Last Mission to Tokyo: The Extraordinary Story of The Doolittle Raiders and Their Final Fight for...

Episode 298-The Battle of Prome

The British lead Allies will suffer defeat on land, sea and in the air, but Gen. Slim will not give up. Moving his men north after loosing at Prome,...

Episode 297-10th Anniversary Episode

My web design guru Paul Finch of Scotland comes on as we discuss the WWII Podcast on its 10th Anniversary. Paul pitches the questions sent in by...

Episode 296-Bryan Rigg Interview about his book Flamethrower

Bryan Rigg talks about his book Flamethrower: Iwo Jima Medal of Honor Recipient and US Marine Woody Williams and His Controversial Award, Japan's...

Episode 295-The Battle of Toungoo

This episode brings in Gen. Joseph “Vinegar Joe” Stilwell as he “takes command” of Chinese Armies bound for Burma. Yet, as he will find, appearances...

Episode 294-The Redoubtable Gen. William Slim

This episode introduces Gen. William Slim of BurCorps. It would be his job to turn the tables on the Japanese in Burma, by working with American...

Episode 293-Burma: The Ground War Begins

The Japanese 15th Army invades Burma, hoping to use speed to reach Rangoon. But several British officers hope to hold them off until reinforcements...

Episode 292-The War Comes To Burma

Although the British are unprepared to defend Burma, Wavell believes that the Japanese may have extended themselves too far with this invasion. But...

Episode 291-America Strikes Back-The Marshalls and Gilbert Raids

This potpourri of an episode has lots from early 1942 in the Pacific. Covering the Admiralty, Marshall, Gilbert, Mariana, Caroline and Solomon...

Episode 290-The Invasion of Burma-Prelude

The Japanese determine that Burma must be occupied to protect their new possession of Malaya. It's up to Chiang Kai-Shek, American Gen. Joe Stilwell...

Episode 289-The Invasion of New Guinea

With Rabaul taken the Japanese go after locations in NE New Guinea, but will have to deal with Vice Adm. Wilson Brown and the US carriers Lexington...

Episode 288-The Fall of Rabaul

The invasions of New Britain and New Ireland get underway. But are over just as quickly. Meanwhile, Australian PM John Curtain informs Churchill...

Episode 287-Damien Lewis Interview: Churchill’s Shadow Raiders

Joining us is Damien Lewis, to talk about his latest book Churchill's Shadow Raiders: The Race to Develop Radar, WWII's Invisible Secret Weapon....

Episode 286-The Battle of Rabaul-Prelude

With much of SE Asia conquered, the Japanese now focus on New Guinea, staring with the islands of New Britain and New Ireland. Lark Force at Rabaul...

Episode 285-The Fall of Timor

Despite Allied hopes that Timor would be left alone, the Japanese Empire has need of its airfield to bomb Australia. But what the invaders were not...

Episode 284-The Fall of Java Pt 3

The Final of the Java series. East Java falls and what is left of the Java Allied Defense is trapped in the south at Tjilatjap.

Episode 283-The Fall of Java Pt 2-The Battle of the Java Sea

Episode 282-Interview with Peter Lion about his book-Merg

Peter Lion joins up to talk about the incredible George Mergenthaler, the sole heir to a vast fortune, but after Pearl Harbor, he joined the US Army...

Episode 281-The Fall of Java Pt 1

With Sumatra lost, the Allies know that Java is next. Gen. Archibald Wavell, ABDA Commander gathers his meager forces, but already knows they will...

Episode 280-The Fall of Sumatra

With Singapore all but taken, the Japanese start operations against Sumatra. The Dutch ask for help from ABDA Command, but it may be too little, too...

Episode 279-Interview with Wes Tooke, writer and producer of the film Midway

Writer, Wes Tooke joins us to talk about the film Midway. We cover this pivotal turning point in the Pacific War, lead by Adm. Chester Nimitz. Young...

Episode 278-The Fall of Bali and The Battle of Badung Straight

Needing another airfield to attack Java, the Japanese quickly work up a plan to take Bali. Dutch Rear Adm. Karel W. Doorman and ABDA Command respond...

Episode 277- An interview with Melissa Amateis about her book, Nebraska POW Camps, A History of WWII Prisoners in the Heartland

During World War II, thousands of Axis prisoners of war were held throughout Nebraska in base camps that included Fort Robinson, Camp Scottsbluff...

Episode 276-The Fall of The Celebes and Maluku Islands

With Singapore captured, the Japanese Empire sets its sights on Sumatra and Java. But first, the Celebes and Maluku Islands must fall, so Australia...

Episode 275-The Fall of Singapore

Despite a 3 to 1 advantage in men, Archibald Percival, GOC Malay, is pushed by Churchill and ABDACOM Commander Gen. Wavell to defy the Japanese in...

Episode 274-The End of British Malaya

Bringing up the Australian 8th Infantry Division, it's hoped these fresh troops can stop the Japanese 25th Army from taking Johore and thus...

Episode 273-The Battle at Slim River

With reinforcements on the way, the British lead Commonwealth troops strive to keep the Japanese away from Singapore. And though exhausted, the...

Episode 272-Courage Yet Defeat: The Battle of Kampar

The Japanese 25th Army continues pushing the Malaya Command further south, ever closer to Singapore. But the latest stand will take place near...

Episode 271-The Battle of Jitra

The third of the Battle of Singapore series. The 11th Indian Infantry Division, operating on the west coast, as well as the 9th Indian Infantry...

Episode 270-The Battle for Singapore: Force Z comes to the Rescue

Acting Admiral Sir Tom Phillips of the British Royal Navy, hopes to begin a campaign that will save SE Asia. If he can stop the invasion of southern...

Episode 269-Interview with David Stahel about his book, Retreat from Moscow

Dr. David Stahel discusses his latest book, Retreat from Moscow, A New History of Germany's Winter Campaign, 1941-1942, in where he takes a new line...

Episode 268-The Battle for Malaya and Singapore

Though the British plans to defend Singapore with the Royal Navy and Air Force never materialize, Air Marshal Brooke-Popham and GOC Percival still...

Episode 267-An interview with Mikhal Dekel about her book, Tehran Children, A Holocaust Refugee Odyssey

Professor Mikhal Dekel joins me to talk about her book, covering Jewish Polish refugees, as 1000 children make an incredible 13,000 mile journey...

Episode 266: The Fall of Borneo

The Japanese troops push the British led forces as well as the Dutch troops around Borneo, taking coastal towns and villages along the way. But not...

Episode 265-The Battle of Borneo-Resistance Comes in Many Forms

After the raid on Pearl Harbor, two Japanese destroyers are sent to damage the American facilities at Midway Island. Then the invaders make for...

Episode 264-Black Christmas: The Fall of Hong Kong

Broken by overwhelming numbers, Gen. Maltby and Gov. Young surrender the cause of Hong Kong. But in some ways, the battle over the island is just...

Episode 263-A Thousand Cuts

As Christmas approaches, the overwhelming Japanese forces reduce the British holdings throughout Hong Kong. Still, Gen. Maltby is unwilling to give...

Episode 262-Once More, Unto the Gap

With the eastern half of Hong Kong Island practically lost, it's up to the West Brigade, under Brig. John Lawson to hold the invading Japanese...

Episode 261-The Balaclava of the Sea

Gen. Sakai begins his invasion of Hong Kong, but Gen. Maltby has his troops ready and his Motor Torpedo Boats, which will hopefully stop the...

Episode 260-Hong Kong: Retreat but No Surrender

With the Gin Drinker's Line pierced, Gen. Maltby pulls back his men to Hong Kong Island. The Japanese will ask the Commonwealth forces to surrender,...

Episode 259-Operation C: Japan Attacks Hong Kong

As the Japanese military has been able to take the port cities of China by 1941, the British held Hong Kong is still free. But now its turn has come...

Episode 258-The Battle of Hong Kong

London had decided that Hong Kong was to be sacrificed to the Japanese, but after Canada offered up two battalions, Churchill reversed this...

Episode 257-The Fall of Wake Island

The marines on Wake Island are holding out, due to discipline and Japanese tactical mistakes. Yet Maj. Devereux is unaware of this and thus brings...

Episode 256- Massacre on Wake Island

Wake Island becomes the focal point of US resistance to Japanese aggression. Adm. Kimmel will send a relief force to Wake, but will it get there in...

Episode 255-The Marines of Wake Island Don’t Know Quit

The Marines on Wake Island are down to four Wildcat fighters, but are determined to resist any Japanese invasion, no matter the odds. "Hammering...

Episode 254-Guam Falls. Wake Island, the Alamo of the Pacific is Next

With MacArthur's airfields still smoldering, the Japanese attack Guam and Wake Island. But the Marines on Wake, though staggered after the first...

Episode 253-Gen. MacArthur-Everything is in Readiness-The Philippines and Singapore

Gen. Douglas MacArthur, in command of all U.S. forces in The Philippines, is convinced that the Japanese will not attack until April of 1942 and...

Episode 252- The Japanese are Coming: Thailand Falls

As Japan launches Operation No. 1, the invasion of SE Asia, numerous transport ships head out to attack The Philippines, Malaya and Thailand. The...

Episode 251-An Interview with Walter Borneman about his book Brothers Down

Author Walter Borneman joins us to talk about his book, Brothers Down: Pearl Harbor and The Fate of the Many Brothers Aboard the USS Arizona

Episode 250- A Date Which Will Live in Infamy

As the Japanese invasion fleet comes closer to Malaya, the various plans established by each side will be tested. Yet, the invaders will find that,...

Episode 249-Japan Enters the War

As Axis victories cause colonial powers to become vulnerable in the Far East, Japan decides to enter the war. With a quick strike at Pearl Harbor,...

Introducing Espionage

Here is the first part of the first episode of Espionage, the latest podcast from Parcast. Podcast.com/espionage

Episode 248-Post Pearl Harbor: The American Giant is Awakened

With details of the Pearl Harbor attack still coming in, President Roosevelt knows he needs to inform but also calm his fellow Americans, who can...

Episode 247-Pearl Harbor: American Perspective Pt 2

The Second attack wave comes and goes at Pearl Harbor. Now, FDR, Adm. Nimitz, Adm. Halsey and Gen. Douglas MacArthur have to face what's coming...

Episode 246-The End of the Aleutian Campaign

The Americans with Canadian help attempt to drive away or capture the Japanese troops stationed on Attu and Kiska. Yet the mysterious Battle of the...

Episode 245-Operation Landcrab

The Americans continue to bomb Kiska, but the Japanese troops are not leaving. Worse, the Imperial Japanese High Command has sent reinforcements. So...

Episode 244: The Aleutian Campaign: The Kiska Blitz

As the Japanese grab a second Aleutian Island, the US military, though denying the Japanese advance, makes plans to remove them. The result-The...

Episode 243-The Aleutian Islands Campaign

Adm. Yamamoto wants to occupy the Midway Islands, but first needs to confuse his opponent Adm. Chester Nimitz with a diversionary attack on the...

Episode 242-Interview with Steve Snyder about his book Shot Down: The True story of Pilot Howard Snyder and the crew of the B 17 Susan Ruth

Shot Down covers the events leading up to and after the crew of the B 17 Susan Ruth is shot down over the French/Belgium border on February 8, 1944....

Episode 241-Air Raid, Pearl Harbor. This is No Drill!

As the carrier USS Enterprise is late for its return to Pearl Harbor, Adm. Bull Halsey sends on ahead Scouting and Bombing squadron 6. The 18...

Episode 240-An Interview with Dr. Jonathan Fennell about his new book, Fighting the People’s War: The British and Commonwealth Armies and The Second World War

Dr. Jonathan Fennell discusses the big battles and issues such as morale, doctrine and social change in his latest book: Fighting the People’s War:...

Episode 239-Pearl Harbor, The American Perspective, Pt 1

As the Japanese bombs and bullets begin to destroy American equipment and lives, the mostly young men are about to find out what they're made of....

Episode 238-An Interview with Andrew Roberts about his book of Winston Churchill

This episode is a crossover from The Cold War Podcast that I co-host with Cameron Reilly. With us is historian Andrew Roberts as we discuss his new...

Episode 237-The Thin Gray Line, the US Pacific Submarine fleet after Pearl Harbor

Back with us is Flint Whitlock as we discuss his book Depths of Courage:American Submariners at War with Japan, 1941-1945. With America's surface...

Episode 236-Claire Chennault and the Flying Tigers

Laszlo Montgomery of The China History Podcast joins me to discuss Claire Chennault and the Flying Tigers. Just after the devastation of Pearl...

Introducing-Assassinations

Please checkout The Parcast Network's latest hit: Assassinations. One death can change the world. Assassinations recounts history’s most dramatic...

Episode 235-An Interview with Flint Whitlock about his book Desperate Valour: Triumph at Anzio

With the Allies being held up in southern Italy by The Gustav Line, near the end of 1943, Gen. Mark Clark decides to do an end run. The force of...

Episode 234-Pearl Harbor Attack-The 2nd Japanese Air Strike

The 2nd Air Wave comes at Pearl Harbor to finish what the First Wave started. Yet, their target selection will be poor. Meanwhile, the Americans are...

Episode 233-An interview with Frederic Martini about his book: Betrayed- Secrecy, Lies and Consequences

While the official government story has always been that no Allied POWs were held in German concentration camps, 168 Allied airmen were beaten,...

Episode 232-Pearl Harbor: The First Attack Wave

This episode covers the first attack wave of Japanese aircraft, from the Japanese point of view. Battleship Row is hit, but Fuchida's plan is far...

Episode 231-Tora, Tora, Tora, The Attack on Pearl Harbor

The first air wave of attacking Japanese warplanes reaches Oahu, on their way to Pearl Harbor. But before they reach Battleship Row, several...

Episode 230-Interview with Robin Hutton-War Animals-The Unsung Heroes of WWII

Writer Robin Hutton talks about her latest book which tells of the animals who contributed to the Allied effort of WWII. There's Chips, who served...

Episode 229-The United States’ First Shot of WWII

In the predawn darkness, the Japanese Strike Force has prepared to launch its first wave of bombers and fighters. Meanwhile, the US Naval Base at...

Episode 228-An Interview with Mary Jo McConahay about her latest book The Tango War

Writer Mary Jo McConahay comes on the show to discuss her latest book, The Tango War: The Struggle for the Hearts, Minds and Riches of Latin America...

Episode 227-This Means War

On December 7, 1941, Ambassador Nomura and Special Envoy Kurusu are about to give Secretary of State Hull and FDR Japan's response to the Hull Note....

Episode 226-The Japanese are Not Ready for Us Yet

Multiple Japanese Assault Fleets are on the move, but with so much incoming information, President Roosevelt and his cabinet do not pick up on the...

Episode 225-Indianpolis-Interview with Lynn Vincent and Sara Vladic

Attacked on 30 July 1945, the heavy cruiser was torpedoed by the Imperial Japanese Navy submarine I-58, and sank in 12 minutes. However, the two...

Episode 224-Climb Mount Niitaka-Tojo Gets his War

Emperor Hirohito reluctantly gives his approval for the attack on Pearl Harbor. As Tojo said, "With war, if you don't try it, you can't know how it...

Episode 223-Roosevelt Learns of the Coming Attack

Through MAGIC, the US's ability to read Japan's diplomatic messages, FDR learns of a final deadline and a coming Japanese attack. Pictured are...

Episode 222-The Pearl Harbor That Almost Wasn’t

Tokyo and Washington seem to be making progress in their peace talks. And yet, the Japanese 1st Air Fleet departs for its attack on Pearl Harbor.

Episode 221-War with the U.S. Seems Unavoidable

Prince Konoye's government collapses as Gen. Tojo demands war with the U.S. Emperor Hirohito then orders Tojo to form his own government, hoping...

Episode 220-An Interview with Lyuba Vinogradova: Defending the Motherland

Dr. Vinogradova comes back to the show to discuss her latest book, Defending the Motherland: The Soviet Women Who Fought Hiter's Aces. This...

Episode 219-When Diplomacy Fails

As the various issues with attacking Pearl Harbor are overcome, the Japanese Military evades telling the truth to Emperor Hirohito and PM Konoye....

Episode 218-Pearl Harbor-The Strongest Fortress in the World

Washington and Tokyo continue their diplomatic dance but neither side is willing to give in. The Americans have broken the Japanese Diplomatic...

Episode 217-Japan-Do or Die

With Washington and Tokyo trying to bend the other to its will, President Roosevelt seeks to strangle Japan's aggression in China with a trade...

Episode 216-The World Goes to War

Chiang Kai-Shek struggles to keep China in the war, knowing the Soviet-German Non Aggression Pact can not last. The question is what will Japan do,...

Episode 215: Collision Course, the Road to Pearl Harbor

Having chased Chiang Kai-Shek back to Chongqing, the Japanese Empire is still unable to get him to surrender. So, on to Chongqing it is, but events...

Episode 214-Betrayal, the Burma Road and The Battle of Nomonhan

Chiang Kai-Shek starts over, again, in Chongqing, as the Japanese military seek to deny him the east coast. First Canton will fall, then other port...

Episode 213-The 2nd Sino-Japanese War-The Fall of Wuhan

Chiang Kai-Shek is staking everything on his defense of Wuhan. As such, the various Japanese forces attempt to encircle the city. Chiang throws...

Episode 212-The Massacre of Nanjing

As Chiang Kai-Shek moves his capital and military Head Quarters west and Hideki Tojo becomes directly involved in the war to the north, the Japanese...

Episode 211-The End of the Battle of Shanghai

Chiang Kai-Shek's forces are barely holding out. But when a second enemy Expeditionary Force lands, it spells the end of Shanghai's freedom. Stalin...

Episode 210-China’s Lost Battalion

The Japanese Expeditionary Force continues to push south to gain access to Shanghai. Meanwhile, Chiang Kai-Shek's nationalist troops continue to...

Episode 209-Dark Days for Chiang Kai-Shek

The Chinese Nationalists are loosing the battle of Shanghai. Yet, Chiang has to hold on as the League of Nations will soon be discussing the...

Episode 208-The Battle of Shanghai-Japanese Reinforcements

The Japanese Expeditionary forces set the stage for a much larger attack, once their reinforcements arrive. The plan is to cut Shanghai off from any...

Episode 207-Shanghai Becomes Chiang Kai-Shek’s Stalingrad

The Chinese Nationalist forces have pulled back from the coast, yet are determined to establish their own Maginot Line. But as both sides have...

Episode 206-Interview with Dr. Lyuba Vinogradova about her book Avenging Angels: The Young Women of the Soviet Union’s WWII Sniper Corps

Dr. Lyuba Vinogradova discusses her research and the resulting book that covers the young women of Stalin's USSR, who are conscripted to the Sniper...

Episode 205-Chiang Kai-Shek’s Pyrrhic Victory

Chiang Kai Shek and his ordinary soldiers are more determined than ever to defend Shanghai in 1937. However, the officers in the middle, due to...

Episode 204-The Japanese Empire Doubles Down in Shanghai

The Japanese invasion of Shanghai, nor their desire to teach the Chinese a lesson, is moving forward fast enough for Tokyo. So when the...

Episode 203-Shanghai-The Dominance of Japanese Air and Sea Power

The Japanese are unloading men and material at a frustratingly slow rate, due to the tides. Until they are ready to launch their assault, their navy...

Episode 202-The Battle of Shanghai Part 2

The Japanese bring reinforcements to Shanghai as their marines are bogged down by Chiang Kai-Shek's best troops. Meanwhile, retired US Army Air...

Episode 201-The Battle of Shanghai Part 1

Chiang Kai-Shek decides that the time has come to openly fight back against Japan. His chosen site is the port city of Shanghai. Both sides build up...

Episode 200-The Marco Polo Bridge Incident: Total War Comes to China

After the clash at the Marco Polo bridge, the Japanese Military decides to occupy northern China. Defying them are the forces of Chiang Kai-Shek and...

Episode 199-The Pacific Theatre Prologue-Sino Japanese Relations

As we officially begin the Pacific Theatre, this episode covers the building tension between The Japanese Empire, dominated by the military and the...

Episode 198-The Beginning of the Big Three

President Roosevelt sends Harry Hopkins, again to London, to set up a meeting between himself and Churchill. The U.S. still seems far from entering...

Episode 197-The Beginning of the Final Solution

Nazi Germany launches its war against the USSR. As such, FDR hopes Germany's attention will slacken on the Atlantic. Yet, if Soviet Russia...

Episode 196-Stalin: Lenins Protege

The Great War is over, but the Allies don't know what to do with Russia. So, the german troops in Russian territory are ordered to remain where they...

Episode 195-The Beginnings of Pearl Harbor

As Hitler tries to lower the tension between the U.S. and Nazi Germany, the opposite is happening between the Japanese Empire and the U.S. As such...

Episode 194-Interview with Sally Mott Freeman about her book: The Jersey Brothers

With us is Sally Mott Freeman as we discuss her book, The Jersey Brothers: A Missing Naval Officer in the Pacific and His Family's Quest to Bring...

Episode 193-Churchill and Chiang Kai-Shek, FDR’s Warriors

President Roosevelt wins a third term, but the American people still refuse to commit to war. Meanwhile, FDR has to find a way to help the Chinese...

Episode 192-Hitler’s Reaction to Lend lease and FDR’s Third Term

President Franklin Roosevelt succeeds in his 3rd term attempt and with the passage of Lend Lease, Hitler knows the war will be prolonged. His answer...

Episode 191: Lenin’s Cruelty, Stalin’s Ambition

With the Kaiser's forces coming ever closer to Petrograd and Moscow, many Russians lose confidence in Lenin and his anagazawe.net Bolsheviks. As...

Episode 190-The Axis Powers and their New World Order

Nazi Germany is not the only threat to U.S. peace as the Empire of Japan continues its attacks against China. Meanwhile President Roosevelt pulls...

Episode 189-Roosevelt’s Secret War against Hitler

As the Nazi menace grows across Europe, President Roosevelt knows that America will be threatened one day. His best plan for keeping the United...

Episode 188-The Great War, Brest-Litovsk and Lenin’s Retreat

Lenin's Bolsheviks pull Russia out of the Great with the Brest Litovsk Treaty, but the Imperial German Army keeps advancing towards Petrograd,...

Episode 187-Interview with Scott Miller

Mr. Miller's latest book, Agent 110: An American Spymaster and the German Resistance in WWII, covers America's attempt to build an espionage network...

Episode 186-The Battle for Norway, Vidkun Quisling and the North Sea

This episode covers the naval battles between the British Royal Navy and the Kriegsmarine just prior to the Battle of Norway. It also touches on the...

Episode 185-The Pacific Theatre-MacArthur’s Retreat

Back with us are Bob Drury and Tom Clavin, authors of Lucky 666: The Impossible Mission. Today we discuss the Pacific Theatre in general and...

Episode 184-The Question of Peace, Lenin and Stalin versus Trotsky

As Lenin deflects others trying to take control of Revolutionary Russia, his Bolshevik Central Committee has to deal with the Central Powers and the...

Episode 182-Churchill and Hitler Race for Norway, Episode 183-Stalin: Lenin’s Mouthpiece

With neither side trusting the other, both the Allies and Nazi Germany ready plans to invade Norway. For Episode 183, Lenin again proves he's a...

Episode 180: Sea Battles, Death at Scapa Flow. Ep 181-The Rule of Lenin and the Bolsheviks

Commodore Donitz, in charge of the German submarines, plans a daring raid against the British battleships in Scapa Flow. In Episode 181, Lenin and...

Episode 179-Flashback: The Battle of the Atlantic Begins

Backing up a bit, we begin the story of the battle for the Atlantic, as German U-boats attempt to starve Britain into submission. Meanwhile, the...

Episode 177-Rommel Retreats, The End of Operation Crusader Ep 178-Lenin’s Pillars: Stalin and Trotsky

Gen. Rommel keeps winning battles but losses men and tanks, that are not replaced. Meanwhile, British 8th Army, refuses to give up, each time it's...

Episode 175-Rommel knows Best Episode 176-Stalin steps in for Lenin

Ep 175-As Gen. Rommel sends his panzers to surprise the British 8th Army near the Frontier Wire, Gen. Cunningham's forces finally reach Tobruk to...

Episode 174-Lucky 666: The Impossible Mission by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin

Our guests today are writers Bob Drury and Tom Clavin to discuss their latest book, Lucky 666-The Impossible Mission. Mavericks or "Screw ups" Jay...

Episode 172-Rommel readies for Success Ep 173 Lenin’s Civil War

Acting on misinformation, both generals, Rommel and Cunningham make plans for the next day, hoping to wipe out the other's armor. Yet Rommel is in a...

Episode 170-Operation Crusader Part 4 Rommel Rises to the Occasion and Episode 171 Lenin comes Home

Ep 170-As Operation Crusader goes forward Gen. Cunningham feels confident as his tanks make it close to Tobruk. However Rommel feels threatened,...

Episode 168-Crusader Part 3 / Episode 169-Stalin and The Great War

Gen. Auchinleck's Operation Crusader is finally launched, but Rommel does not react as predicted as his focus is still on taking Tobruk. AND Tsar...

Episode 167-Operation Crusader Part 2

The British Western Desert Army is transformed into the 8th British Army proper. C in C ME Auchinleck has tapped Gen. Sir Alan Cunningham to lead...

Episode 166-Lenin’s Gift to Stalin

Stalin will endure several more arrests, but while in exile, Lenin will maneuver to have Koba made a member of the newly created Bolshevik Central...

Episode 165-Meanwhile, back in North Africa-Operation Crusader Part 1

With a new commander in the Middle East, Churchill wants the war against Rommel renewed, but C in C Auchinleck has his own ideas. Yet the Desert Fox...

Episode 164-Lenin’s Trigger Man

Stalin is newly married, but has little time for his wife and soon to arrive child. He is still focused on the Marxist revolution and his rise in...

Episode 163-Stalin-Family Man

Young Stalin begins to the learn of the wider world of international politics and the intrigues that comes with it. Lenin his hero, does not measure...

Episode 162-The Winter Fortress Interview with Neal Bascomb

In early 1942, the U.S. and Great Britain work together to develop the Atomic Bomb, but London needs to make sure Nazi Germany doesn't get there...

Episode 161-Stalin Bio Part 5

Stalin, the young revolutionary, stumbles and is on the outs with the Georgian Social Democratic Worker's Party. Yet, after making another mistake,...

Episode 160-Leningrad under Siege, Part 2 Unarmed for War

Leningraders volunteer in such numbers that the Stavka orders several divisions to be organized, to resist the German invaders. Yet the men are...

Episode 159-Stalin Bio Part 4-The Rise of Koba

Ioseph Jughashvili, AKA Stalin, leaves the seminary under mysterious circumstances. Following the path of his mentor Lado Ketskhoveli, Soso becomes...

Episode 158-Leningrad under Siege

The people of Leningrad take an affront to Nazi Germany invading their country. The men volunteer in droves for military service, the women are sent...

Episode 157-Stalin Bio Part 3

Young Stalin begins the process of moving away from the Seminary and towards the life of a revolutionary. The picture is of Marx and Engels.

Episode 156-Stalin Strikes Back

Army Group South continues pressing closer towards the Soviet Capital. But General Secretary Stalin and General Zhukov attempt to defy the invaders....

Episode 155-Stalin Bio 2

Sixteen year old Soso (Stalin) enters the Tiflis Theological Seminary, on his way to becoming a priest. But what the boy may not know is that, he...

Episode 154-The Spires of Moscow

With the mud now frozen hard, Army Group Center advances on Moscow, deciding the weak link is just to the NW of the city. This guess proves correct....

Episode 153-Stalin Bio 1

Stalin, the future Soviet leader is born, far from Moscow and begins his provincial life.

Episode 152: Operation Typhoon Behind the Lines

This episode, narrated Tim Martin, of the newly launched Valiant: Stories of Heroes Podcast, covers Guderian's dash to Tula. Ray will be back next...

Episode 151-Operation Typhoon Part 2

OKH Chief Franz Halder makes plans for a modest end to 1941 for Operation Barbarossa, but Hitler overrides him and orders the capture of Moscow,...

Episode 150-Operation Typhoon

The Germans smash through the latest Soviet Defensive lines. The 4th Panzer Group, along with Gen. Kluge's 4th Army now have men just 128 KM or 80...

Episode 149-The March on Moscow Part 3

Having shattered the Russian defensive line at Viaz'ma, the Germans expand on their ambitious attack plans, attacking to the north and south of the...

Episode 148-The March on Moscow Part 2

The Germans and Russians clash to the west of Moscow. But within mere days, the Soviet's three Fronts are either destroyed or encircled. The road to...

Episode 147-The March to Moscow Part 1

With Leningrad cut off and the far South stabilized, Hitler has decreed that the time has come to launch Operation Typhoon, Nazi Germany's attack...

Episode 146-The Siege of Leningrad Part III-Slugfest

Hitler has renewed the drive to Moscow, Operation Typhoon, and needs the panzers from Army Group North. Which means, Leningrad needs to be cut off...

Episode 145-The Siege of Leningrad Part 2

Leeb, commander of Army Group North launches his last major assault before having to turn over most of his motorized units to Army Group Center, as...

Episode 144-The Siege of Leningrad Part 1

The Germans come ever closer to Leningrad, so Stalin sends his best general to cope, Zhukov.

Episode 143-The Road to Moscow

Army Group Center makes its way East, past Minsk and now on to Smolensk. But waiting for them is the largest Soviet counter attack, to date....

Episode 142-Douglas Waller Interview

Douglas Waller's latest book, Disciples: The World War II Missions of the CIA Directors Who Fought for Wild Bill Donovan. OSS Agents penetrate Nazi...

Episode 141-Stalin’s Mistake

Stalin's lack of military training causes his country to loose everything to the South, west of the Dnieper River. The German Panzers race east and...

Episode 140-Of Two Minds

Marshal Mannerheim of Finland agrees to attack towards Leningrad and around Lake Ladoga, but not much more than that.

Episode 139-Finland, Ally to the North

Hitler manages to bring Finland into his attack against Soviet Russia, but the Finns are mostly concerned with recapturing lost land. Like the three...

Episode 138-Trading Punches

The Panzers come ever closer to Leningrad, though losing men and machines along the way. Meanwhile, Army Group Center moves toward the Dvina River....

Episode 137-All Good Deeds

The German invaders are now in Russia, proper and are still advancing, but suffer heavier than expected losses. But in SE Russia, the Soviet 6th and...

Episode 136-The Fall of Minsk

The three German Army Groups advance further into Russia, but Army Group Center has has the most success. Perhaps some of its panzers should be...

Episode 135-Russia is never as strong as she looks; nor as weak as she looks.

Now that Operation Barbarossa had been launched, Hilter attempts to convince the world that this battle is only in the defense of Nazi Germany. That...

Episode 134-Reactions to Barbarossa

The leaders of the combatant countries react to Nazi Germany invading Soviet Russia. We also cover Army Group North and South's initial assaults.

Member Ep 60 is ready for download!

The Japanese troops of the 23rd Division cross the Halha River to wipe out Gen. Zhukov's forces.

Episode 133-It Has Begun

Before the sun rises on June 22, 1941, Nazi Germany unleashes Operation Barbarossa, its attack on Soviet Russia and Stalin.

Episode 132-Operation Barbarossa

Earlier than most people think, Hilter started planning his war against Soviet Russia and Stalin. Operation Barbarossa begins to take shape during...

Member Episodes 58-59 are Ready!

Just before the deadline! The Japanese and Mongolian forces around Nomonham are now joined by the Soviet Union, who desires to squash any trouble...

Episode 131-Third Time is the Charm

FDR comes through his third election and the British are expectant. Yet there are still hurdles to overcome. But eventually, the president comes up...

Episode 130-Sleight of Hand

President Roosevelt continues his struggle against Congress and the Isolationists in trying to help the Allies. France falls from the fight.

Episode 129-Lend Lease

It becomes apparant to the U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt that Britian and France are going to need American war material and financial...

Episode 128-The End of Wavell, Battle Axe and Exporter

With the failure of Operation Battle Axe and the bloody victory in Syria, Churchill finally rids himself of C in C Gen. Archibald Wavell. And wants...

Episode 127-Opeartion Battle Axe

Though Operation Exporter is stalled, Operation Battle Axe is launched. Yet the British attack plans are not very creative and Rommel can hear most...

Episode 126-Operation Exporter Part 2

The Allies come up against stiff French (Vichy) resistence in Syria and Lebanon. But that was just to set up the counter attack, which commenced on...

Member Eps 54-55 are Ready!

The Japanese army is buried deep into China, but border clashes with Russia, bring about the possibility of an entirely new war.

Episode 125-Operation Exporter

Churchill and the Free French get their way, Vichy controlled Syria will be invaded. But C in C Wavell's Middle East Command is stretched as it is,...

Episode 124-The End of Crete

Here is the last episode of the Battle of Crete. The Allies never contested for air superiority and thus the Germans were able to constantly push...

Member Episodes 52/53 are Ready!

A little known battle between Russian and Japanese forces in 1939 redirects each country's directional ambitions. Russia focuses on the West, too...

Episode 123- Crete Part 4

The Allied defense under Gen. Freyberg continues to back pedal on Crete. Meanwhile Adm. Cunningham continues to lose ships, although the land battle...

Episode 122: Crete Part 3

The Allied counter attack faulters, which allows the Germans to land more troops at Maleme. The Royal Navy is doing what it can, but suffering for...

Episode 121- Crete Part II

Gen. Student tries to figure out how to salvage the disaster that has befallen his airborne troops during the opening day of Operation Mercury....

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Here is the last Episode covering David Stirling and the SAS. I had no idea about him until recently. It just goes to show that there is still, so...

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The SAS, in its entirety, is called by to HQ. It will be a part of a massive operation against Axis Forces in North Africa. Probably is, Stirling...

Episode 120-Crete, Part 1

The Germans begin, Operation Mercury, their attack on the island, to further confuse Russia and keep the British away from Hitler's oil fields. Yet...

Promo-Alexander the Great, Episode 1

This is the first Episode of Alexander the Great, hosted by myself and Cameron Reilly of The Napoleon Bonaparte Podcast. Enjoy!

Episode 119-Churchill, 1932

Back by popular demand! Winston S. Churchill

Episode 118-Operation Brevity, Iraq and Crete

C in C M.E. Wavell gives into pressure from Churchill to attack Rommel, before the tanks and planes of Convoy Tiger can be off loaded. Next, the...

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Gen. Rommel begins to truly realize what is working against him in the desert of North Africa and so assembles his own units to capture or kill the...

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David Stirling of the SAS redefines how his men can take on the German forces. Gen. Auchinleck readies for Operation Exaltation.

Episode 117-Tobruk and Iraq

Rommel is ready to have another crack at Tobruk, but Berlin is focused on Operation Barbarossa. Yet, Rommel gets permission to move ahead and finish...

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Stirling's SAS team get involved in politics as Churchill and Auchinleck argue over when Rommel should be attacked again. Stirling has his best day...

Episode 116-The Axis Tide

German forces complete their conquest of the Greek mainland. Meanwhile Rommel shocks the British led forces in North Africa.

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David Stirling and the SAS continue to hit Axis airfields in North Africa. Yet Gen. Rommel, will not let anything stop him from recapturing Benghazi.

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Though blundering on their first mission, the SAS unit, some of them shown here, are ready for another crack at the Axis Air Force.

Episode 115-Operation Marita Part III

The Germans continue to drive south, the Greeks throw in the towell and the Allies make plans to evacuate. But wanting more Gen. Von List of the...

Program Announcement/Life of Caesar Podcast Ad

I've got good news and better news! I'm working hard to put out episodes on a regular schedule. AND until such time, please give my OTHER podcast,...

The Allied leaders of Greece

Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Blamey, commander of Australian I Corps, Lieutenant General Sir Henry Maitland Wilson, commanding general of the...

Operation Marita

German armed forces make short work of the Allied defense of Greece.

Episode 114-Operation Martia Part 2

The Alikmon Line is breached, the Allies fall back. But the German forces are right behind them all the way. Greek General Papagos believes the end...

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The Phantom Major organizes his group and makes life hell for the Desert Fox.

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The last of the Jews in Warsaw Series is here. The Nazis leave, the Soviets enter. What about the ZOB?

Map of Operation Marita

Greece comes under attack on the same day as Yugoslavia, yet that country's quick demise, sets up the conquest of Greece. The war in the Greek NE is...

Episode 113-Operation Marita Part 1

Greece comes under attack on the same day as Yugoslavia, yet that country's quick demise, sets up the conquest of Greece. The war in the Greek NE is...

Episode 112-He Who Defends Everything, Defends Nothing

Nothing can be allowed to stand in the way of Operation Barbarossa, Hitler's plan to destroy Russia. Certainly not Yugoslavia and Greece. So...

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The Polish Home Army finally rises up in Operation Tempest, hoping to push out the Germans before the Russians enter Warsaw. Yet the Nazis don’t...

Episode 111-Our Own Worst Enemy

Lt. Gen. Rommel had decided the time has come to ignore his orders and move against the Allies. While he has his own problems, they are nothing...

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The remaining ZOB members manage to leave the Ghetto, but the outside world is no more safer for them.

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SS Gen. Stroop is well on his way to clearing out the remaining Jews from the Ghetto. It’s time for the ZOB to leave. But the organization begins to...

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The title says it all. "Well, How Bad Do You Want to Live?"

Episode 110-Back, the Way We Came

Lt. Gen. Rommel decides it's time to test the Allied forces within Cyrenaica, as well as his Italian and German superiors. Meanwhile Adm. Cunningham...

Episode 109-All Roads Lead to Greece

The Allies, with Great Britain leading the way, rush all available troops to Greece. Yet, now that Lt. Gen. Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox, is in...

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The Nazi SS enter the Warsaw Ghetto to finish off the remaining 35,000 Jews, but are foiled in their attempts by the ZOB leader Angel. Now, both...

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After more than year of being promised weapons, the Zionists Underground realize the only way they are going to get weapons is to take them from the...

Episode 108-The Germans are Coming

As the gods themselves seem to hate Mussolini and all his endeavors, with British Commonwealth forces and Greek soldiers destroying his troops,...

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The true intentions of Nazi Policy are revealed as the wall is finished being built around the Jewish Quarter. Jewish children rise to the role of...

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The Nazis and Jewish Underground move forward in their endeavors, at cross purposes obviously. A wall around the Jewish Quarter begins to emerge...

Episode 107-The End of the End

Here is the last episode of the Churchill Bio. Winston, looses his money, his influence and almost, his life. Listen carefully to the end. Did you...

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The Nazis work to separate the new found bond between the Jews and Gentiles. The USSR and Nazi Germany work to divide Poland. Meanwhile the Jewish...

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The war of Poland is over. But the battle for freedom has just begun. Hitler, when visiting Warsaw for the only time, drives over 500 pounds of...

Episode 106-The Beginning of the End

Churchill returns from the U.S. to find his party up in arms about the India question and Tory leader Baldwin's pro Dominion stance concerning the...

Episode 105-Up in Smoke

The disaffected British voters decide to give someone else a chance to deal with the country's dreary economy. Churchill finds he's been walking a...

Episode 104-Chartwell

Churchill finds his Camelot and then works feverishly to fix it up as his Gwenivere is not impressed.

Episode 103-Lost and Loss

Winston, now a private citizen, will stay this way for two years as British politics and his views take different paths. Intermingled during this...

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The Polish military begins to organize its defense against Nazi Germany's invasion. But the Polish government has its own plans. Meanwhile the...

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This is the first of a series that will take a closer look at the fall and occupation of Poland.

Episode 102-His Cup Runneth Over

Churchill's post war years are full of success, tragedy and despair. He changes positions within the British Cabinet and takes on the issues of a...

Membership Ep. 29 is Ready!

The last of the Krueger counterfeit British Banknotes episodes is here. Who survives and what was the money used for?

Episode 101-Interview with Kathryn J. Atwood

With us for this episode is writer Kathryn J. Atwood, arthor of Women Heroes of World War II and editor of Code Name Pauline: Memoirs of a World War...

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SS Major Krueger have his men working hard, producing counterfeit British Banknotes. But all the prisoners care about his stretching out their work...

Episode 100-Nazi Germany from Within

The following is my 100th Episode Celebration. After thanking those who have shared this journey with me, I interview Henry Niemann who grew up in...

Episode 99-All’s Well that Ends Well

The Great War comes to an end. Churchill's family grows and life as Winston knew it, has been erased forever.

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Major Krueger begins assembling his team to forge British banknotes. But certain SS officers who out rank Krueger have their own ideas about what to...

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Nazi Germany, wanting to knock Great Britain out of the war any way it can, decides to counterfeit British banknotes to destabilize their war economy.

Episode 98-Once more, unto the Trench

Churchill is cleared of the Dardanelles disaster, manages to re-enter of the government, but then almost loses it all as he is at the front when...

Episode 97B- Talk History

Warning! No history is covered here. But somehow, Laszlo of The China History Podcast ended up on the East Coast, in Virginia, in Charlottesville,...

Episode 97-Back in the Saddle, Again

Churchill's career seems all but over. Still, he finds solace in his family, painting and life in the trench.

Membership Ep. 25 is Ready!

You know of the war between Germany and the Allies, but here is the end, sort of, of the war between IBM/Watson and Dehomag/The Nazi Party. No one...

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Nazi Germany is suffering economically, but continues its persecution of the Jews. Austria is annexed and the Czech state falls soon afterward and...

Episode 96-Foiles and Follies

The Dardanelles Campaign starts off well enough, but through bad luck, worse weather and weaker souls, it collapses on itself. Then the British...

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The Jews are stripped of their German Citizenship and the cruelty begins in earnest. IBM and Dehomag become more intwined with their respective...

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Hitler uses the 1935 Nuremberg Rally to announce new laws against the Jews. Their citizenship is stripped away and the persecution intensifies.

Episode 95-The Dardanelles, Pt. 1

The British War Council decides on a Second Front to hopefully alter the slaughtering in France. Winston, with his personality, becomes of the face...

Episode 94-In for a Penny…

With the outbreak of war, Churchill is ready, though the same can not be said of the rest of Britain. Winston will experience the lime light and the...

Churchill & Roosevelt Mug

Please only use this order option for Continental US addresses only. 12.99 for each mug and 5.00 for delivery. Everyone else, please follow these...

Member Ep. 21 is Ready!

Dehomag proves its ability to the Nazis that it alone can find the Jewish citizens of Germany.

Episode 93-War is Upon Us

The events of Sarajevo cause diplomatic tension to build throughout Europe but Churchill is determined that Britain will be ready, come what may.

Episode 92A-Website Update

After a bit of trouble with the website, we are back and Episode 93 will be out soon. Thanks for your patience!

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Hitler comes to power and uses IBM technology to track down the Jews within Germany and German controlled territory.

Episode 92-The Navys the Thing

Churchill gets promoted to the Home Office, starts out well, but then becomes his own worst enemy. Now in the Admiralty, Winston comes into his own....

Churchill Coffee Mug Contest!

For a chance to win this baby, send me an email to wwiipodcast@gmail.com. Please put "contest" in the subject line.

Episode 91-Love’s Labors NOT Lost

Winston finds love, fights the Tories, gets promoted, nearly dies three times and humbles some Lords.

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French leader Petain, frustrated by Laval's pro-German stance, makes his move against his Vice Premier. The German occupation of Paris begins its...

Episode 90-Winston’s Revenge

Winston, now in the House of Commons, plots his revenge against those who fought his father, Lord Randolph. Also, Churchill, goes through his own...

Episode 89-Fame and Fortune

Churchill's life is covered until the death of Queen Victoria.

Episode 88 Churchill- War Correspondent

We are joined today by James Muller, professor of Political Science at the University of Alaska, Anchorage. We discuss Churchill's 2nd book...

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The delicate battle for the American Hospital in Paris begins.

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The Americans and Germans square off in Paris and one former jazz club owner decides it's time to join in the fighting, again.

Episode 87-Jack El-Hai Book Interview

Jack El-Hai joined me today for a conversation about his latest book, The Nazi and the Psychiartrist: Hermann Goring, Dr. Douglas M. Kelley, and a...

Episode 86-Risks and Rewards, Redux

Winston is determined to leave the Army and make his way to Parliament as a hero/correspondent. But the majority of the military establishment is...

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As France is knocked out of the war and the Germans occupy Paris, the 5,000 or so Americans that decide to remain have to learn a new way of life....

Episode 85-Risks and Rewards

Churchill, having decided his course, willingly risks his life for his ultimate goal, the House of Commons. But he has to survive India first.

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Alfred Krupp's guns change the world, but he's too busy building his house to notice. The 2nd French Empire is destroyed and the 2nd German Reich is...

Episode 84-Master of My Fortunes

Winston loses those in his life he holds most dear. And to defeat boredom, he travels to Cuba to see war up close, as the Spanish try to putdown a...

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Alfred Krupp almost loses everything just by being himself, but Wilhelm I and Chancellor Bismarck need his guns, as they start to forge a Greater...

Episode 83-The End of the Beginning

Winston makes it into Sandhurst, taking a curious route. He nearly dies at least twice, but in the end another family member is taken from his life....

Episode 82-Harrow

Churchill enters Harrow, but his defiant ways still exist. His father draws away from him but his mother will soon be coming to his side. At Harrow,...

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Krupp is all but ready to give up on guns, then a new king comes to Prussia and he has plans for Krupp's arms and central Europe.

Episode 81-Churchill, The Early Years

This episode covers Winston Churchill's birth, his early school years and his parent's or lack thereof, influence on the boy.

Membership Episode 12 is ready!

Alfred Krupp finds love and business success! And a son, whom he names after (of course) himself. The first Bertha Krupp in on the scene, but spends...

Episode 80-East Africa, Part 2

This episode takes us through the war in East Africa through February 1941, which is the high water mark for The British Empire fighting the Axis...

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Alfred Krupp can make cast steel, but can he sell it? Also, Alfred gets his way on the family fortune and stumbles upon the idea of cast steel...

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McIndoe's personal views of life find their way into The Guinea Pig Club. As such, the club is filled with love and understanding, but also, high...

Episode 79-East Africa

The various British commands in East Africa are ready to move against the Italians. Well, not really. But as the Italians retreat after Operation...

Episode 78-The Battle of Beda Fomm

Gen. O'Connor is planning his next attack when the Italians decide to abandon Cyrenaica. The Race is on! Also, the Replica Newspaper contest.

Membership Episode 9-Blackie and Dr. Russell Davies

When Edward Blacksell "Blackie" came to East Grinstead, McIndoe's team was complete. These three men would help the Guinea Pigs during and long...

Episode 77-Tobruk

The British 13th Corps continues pushing west, now it's Tobruk's turn. The situation in East Africa causes only more tension between Wavell and...

Episode 76-The Army of the Nile

The Italians have been pushed out of Egypt and Gen. Richard O'Connor has lost his 4th Indian Division. Still, he decides to pursue the retreating...

Tannafax Jelly

Member's Episode 7 is ready for download. It covers some of the medical treatments prior to 1939. The RAF finally get their seal sealing tank.

Episode 75-Military Aviation Museum

Here is an Mp4 episode of my recent trip to the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach, VA. Amazing place!

Membership Episode 5-Strange WWII Facts

This Membership episode exposes rarely heard short stories of WWII as well as common slang used by Commonwealth Forces. Members, please go to the...

Episode 74-Operation Compass

After 6 months of planning, the British are ready to move against Marshal Graziani.

Alfred Krupp

Alfred Krupp, the subject of Membership Episode #4 would be hailed as the "Cannon King" in his lifetime. Alfred Krupp (born Alfried Felix Alwyn...

Episode 73-Italian Checks, Greek Balances

Greek soldiers continue to dominate and push the Italian invaders back into Albania and closer to the sea. The RAF makes its presence felt by...

William Mitchell

The subject of Membership Episode #3. William (Billy) Mitchell (1879-1936), considered by many the father of the U.S. air force, led the American...

Episode 72-Taranto Pt 3

The last episode covering the Battle of Taranto. The second attack wave of Swordfish make for the harbor, but only after overcoming problems of...

Episode 71-Taranto, Pt 2

Adm. Cunningham updates the plan to attack Taranto, but then suffers several setbacks. These are over come, the Italians are confused by the massive...

Episode 70-The Battle of Taranto, Pt 1

British Admiral Andrew B. Cunningham, commander of the Mediterranean Fleet has his orders: Maintain the sea lanes between Gibraltar and the Suez...

The Battle of Taranto

The Battle of Taranto took place on the night of 11–12 November 1940 during the Second World War. The Royal Navy launched the first all-aircraft...

Episode 69B-Talk History

We are joined by Steven Guerra of The History of the Papacy Podcast to discuss Italy's attack on Greece, the Battle of Taranto and some of the what...

General Sebastiano Visconti Prasca

Sebastiano Visconti Prasca (1883–1961) was an Italian general. He led the initial offensive of the Greco-Italian War, but was relieved of his...

Episode 69-Greek Fire, Part II

Italy has invaded Greece, but under Prime Mister Metaxas, the Greeks are ready. The Italians are drawn in and then the defenders use their mountains...

Episode 68-Greek Fire, Pt. 1

Mussolini and Hitler deceive each other over desired territory, while Prime Mister Metaxas of Greece tries to stay below Italy's radar.  يلا...

Episode 67-Mare Nostrum

Mussolini would pay back Hitler "in his own coin" by invading Greece without first telling his Axis partner. But the Greek people, for all their...

Episode 66-D Day Memorial and Contest Drawing

Here is an overview of my recent visit to the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, VA. This episode is in an Mp4 format, so please enjoy the pictures. At the...

Operation Compass

Operation Compass was the first major Allied military operation of the Western Desert Campaign during World War II.British and Commonwealth forces...

Gen. Richard O’Connor

Sir Richard Nugent O'Connor KT, GCB, DSO & Bar, MC, ADC (21 August 1889 – 17 June 1981) was aBritish Army general who commanded the Western...

Lt. Gen. William Gott

William Henry Ewart Gott CB, CBE, DSO and bar, MC (13 August 1897 – 7 August 1942),nicknamed "Strafer", was a British Army officer during both...

Admiral Andrew Cunningham

Andrew Browne Cunningham, 1st Viscount Cunningham of Hyndhope, (7 January 1883 – 12 June 1963),  was widely known by his nickname, "ABC". In the...

Episode 65-Mediterranean Life Line

By 1940, Great Britain had several possessions in the anagazawe.com Mediterranean Sea, that they would use to project power against the Axis. But...

Episode 64-The Royal Navy in the Mediterranean Sea 1940

Andrew Lambert, Laughton Professor of Naval History in the Department of War Studies at King's College London, joins us to discuss the Royal Navy's...

Episode 63B-Talk History

We are joined by Luke Whitehorn, special effects artist from the movie Iron Sky. WWII and Sci Fi! What's not to love.  يلا شوت We cover episodes 62...

Episode 63-October 1940

The British plan their attack against General Graziani and the Italian 10th Army. Hitler and Franco meet to discuss an attack on Gibraltar. And...

Episode 62-Failure, Failure Everywhere

Marshall Graziani FINALLY moves into Egypt, but then stops. Gen. De Gaulle is in place to take Dakar in West Africa. Finally, a quick look at the...

Contest and Announcement

Voting for the Podcast Awards starts November 1st. Please think of me! I'm in the Cultural/Arts category. So is Laszlo, but that's his problem....

Episode 61B Talk History

Jamie Redfern of The History of: Hannibal spends time with us to discuss the war in the desert, Iran and somehow-Buddy Ebsen.

Episode 61-Able but Unwilling

This time, we cover the tension between Churchill and two of his three service leaders in North Africa and the Mediterranean. Marshall Graziani is...

Project History Cage Match-Rome: Over-rated?

Is the influence and greatness of the Roman Empire over-rated? Listen to your's truly and other history podcasters debate this and find out!

Episode 60C-WWII meets China History Podcast

WARNING: The following is not a normal WWII episode. But, it is entertaining! With the kind permission of The China History Podcast, here is the...

Episode 60B-Talk History

Zack Twamley of the When Diplomacy Fails Podcast joins me in discussing the events of Episode 60 as well as the war so far covered in Europe.

Episode 60-Sand, Saltwater and Oil

Mussolini wants his Roman Empire in Africa. But the British refuse to yield. Gen. Archibald Wavell is asked to do much, with very little. France is...

Episode 59-Miracles and Mistakes

Here is the Final Episode of The Battle of Britain series. We sum up the Luftwaffe's chances of ever really getting across the English Channel,...

Episode 58-Battle of Britain Day

The Germans are convinced that Fighter Command is on its last leg. Waiting out the foul English weather, the Luftwaffe, Kesselring and Goering,...

Episode 57-German Armada

Unable to break Fighter Command by the needed date for Operation Sea Lion, the Luftwaffe changes their tactics and will go after London. Dowding and...

Jubilee Celebration

A view from the rear of a Lancaster Bomber. Amazing! Thank you Mike B.

Episode 56-Breaking Point

September brings the beginning of the end of The Battle of Britain. London will become the Luftwaffe's target as Germany needs the war to end. Soon...

Episode 55-Battling Friends and Foes Alike

As tired as everyone is, Kesselring of Luftflotte Two steps up the intensity of the attacks on RAF airfields, especially those near London. And...

Episode 54-Pandoras Box

London becomes more of a target for the German bombers, until Goering warms them away. But it's too late. Churchill and the War Cabinet decide to...

Episode 53- Things Missed

This episode covers 4 missed or lightly treated subjects: Operation Pied Piper- the evacuation of Britain's children, the disaster of the...

Episode 52-Moves on the Chessboard

C in C of the Luftwaffe Goering calls his young bloods to Karinhall to devise a new strategy to destroy Fighter Command. The result is a reinforced...

Episode 51-The Hardest Day

This episode covers August 16 to the 18th. Goering plans on finishing Fighter Command on August 18th, by using almost every fighter and bomber from...

Episode 50- Black Thursday, August 14-15th

August 15th was one of the greatest days of battle in The Battle of Britain. Goering makes his plans for improved attacks against the RAF but...

Episode 49- Adlertag: August 8th-13th

Goering is ready for Phase Two. Fighter Command's air shield will be tested as more and more raids approach the British coasts.  And now that the...

Episode 48: Things Learned. August 2nd – August 7th.

The RAF and Luftwaffe size each other up and ready for Adlertag. The war in North Africa has started and the British will have to withdraw, like...

Episode 47- Support Teams & The Battle, July 29th-August 1st

The brave men and women behind the RAF pilots and Fighter Command. The British people come together to defend their island: Anti-Aircraft guns,...

Episode 46-A Day in the Life, July 26th-28th

This episode gives a glimpse into the daily routine of Luftwaffe pilots fighting over the English Channel. The Straights of Dover are now being...

Episode 45- Numbers Tell, July 23rd-25th

The Me 109E will bring Nazi Germany to greatness and to the water's edge at the English Channel. It came before the Hurricane and Spitfire and was...

601 Squadron- The Millionaires Squadron

601 Squadron was formed at RAF Northolt on 14 October 1925 when a group of wealthy aristocratic young men, all of whom were amateur aviators,...

HE or High Explosive bombs

The SC 1800 Satan was one of the largest bombs in the Luftwaffe armoury during the Second World War and the largest regularly used during the Blitz....

One of the Luftwaffe’s best- Werner Molders.

Werner Mölders was a World War II German Luftwaffe pilot and the leading German fighter ace in the Spanish Civil War. Mölders became the first pilot...

New Zealander Flight Lt. Alan Deere

Alan "Al" Christopher Deere would distinguish himself in WWII, like so many other brave pilots. He fell in love with his Spitfire "Kiwi" and...

Major Adolf Galland of the Luftwaffe

Galland makes a brief appearance in episode 45. He leads his Geschwader against shipping in SE Britain, only to lose good men and his own plane due...

Flame Fougasse

In readying the southern British coast for invasion, besides the usual pillboxes and barbed wire, there was also the Flame Fougasse. A camouflaged...

British Sea Forts

These Sea Forts helped keep a look out for incoming raiders. Three were located near Liverpool and four were in the Thames Estuary. They all had...

Ray Harris appears on Paranormal Eh? Radio

Ray Harris appears on the Paranormal Eh? Radio show. The episode is titled 'The Nazi's and the occult'. Listen to internet radio with Terry Konig on...

12 Group Sector Operations Room at Duxford

When ordered by their Group HQ, the sector stations would "scramble" their squadrons into the air. Once airborne, the squadrons would be directed by...

The Dyle Plan

The Dyle Plan or D Plan was the primary war plan of the French Army to stave off the expected German attack during Fall Gelb. It was conceived by...

Video of The Battle of Britain

Part 1 of 6. Click "Read More".

The French surrender to Hitler

Hitler sets up the conditions of the French surrender.

Area of 13 Group of Fighter Command

13 Group covered Great Britain to the North. Most attacks on 13 Group came from Norway. Who knows how many Luftwaffe pilots had to ditch their Me...

Bentley Priory

Fighter Command's HQ where Air Marshal Dowding organized and lead The Battle of Britain. Located in Stanmore near London.

Episode 44-Defense of the Air.

This episode covers the beginning of the RAF and Fighter Command. Air Marshal Dowding is Fighter Command's first Commander in chief. Through trial...

Area of 10 Group.

Covering the SW of Britain.

Air Vice Marshal Keith Park of 11 Group

New Zealander Keith Park defended the southern coast.

Field Marshal Albert Kesselring of Luftflotte 1.

Competent and professional.

Area of 12 Group of Fighter Command

Churchill’s makes his aims clear.

Churchill gives his we shall fight on the beaches speech.

Goring and his staff at the water’s edge.

Episode 43-The Battle, July 16th-19th.

German tactics, English weather and the Spitfire.

Edinburgh

View Larger Map

The area of 11 Group

Air Vice Marshal Keith Park in command.

Ref test

blog sample

Fighter Command’s areas of operation.

Fighter Command was broken up into 4 Groups. Below, you can see the two main German Luftwaffe Groups opposing them.

Episode 42-Battle of Britain, Part 2.

A close up of the Hawker Hurricane and the Battle of Britain, July 11th-15th.

Episode 41-Great Britain’s turn.

Battle of Britain- July 10, 1940.

Episode 40-Unexpected surprise for Hitler.

Hitler is ready to end the war, but not Churchill.

Episode 39-Hitler bio, Part 3.

Hitler until the Beer Hall Putsch.

Episode 38-Hitler bio, Part 2.

Hitler through the end of WWI.

Episode 37-Hitler bio, Part 1.

The early life of Adolf Hitler.

Episode 36-The End of the French Third Republic.

Petain and the New France.

Episode 35-The question of the French Fleet.

Britain and France clash and Churchill settles the question of the French fleet once and for all.

Episode 34-The war of France is over.

Petain's government signs the Armistice Treaty with Nazi Germany.

Episode 33-Premier Petain seeks peace.

Petain rushes to find peace, giving little thought of the price.

Episode 32-French Premier Reynaud falls.

Reynaud falls and Marshal Petain takes over.

Episode 31-Paris falls.

Paris falls. June 5th - 13th.

Episode 30-The End of Dunkirk.

Rescue operations come to a close as the Germans advance on the Allied perimeter.

Episode 29-June 2nd. Massed ships.

British civilians help rescue troops from Dunkirk.

Episode 28-The Miracle.

The "Miracle" part of Dunkirk.

Episode 27-29th May.

The clouds and smoke roll away and Dunkirk is exposed to the Luftwaffe.

Episode 26-Dunkirk, Part 2.

The anxious British troops wait on the beaches and the Mole to be rescued.

Episode 25-Dunkirk, Part 1.

The British, seemingly pushed into the sea, organize to save their troops to fight another day.

Episode 24-The panzers reach the coast.

Allied forces in Belgium are cut off as the German panzers reach the coast.

Episode 23-The French 9th Army is destroyed.

Rommel crosses the Meuse north of Sedan and helps destroy the French 9th Army.

Episode 22-German panzers attack through the Ardennes.

German panzers attack through the Ardennes, head for the Meuse River and the town of Sedan.

Episode 21-The fall of France, Part 2.

The invasion of Holland and Belgium.

Episode 20-China 1937 to 1940.

China 1937-40 and Mao Biography.

Episode 19-The Long March w/ Laszlo Montgomery.

The Long March, 1934-1935. Mao and the Chinese Communist Party are saved by running through the mountains and jungles, fleeing from Chiang Kai-shek...

Episode 18-The fall of France, Part 1.

The Phony War has undermined what eagerness there was to fight Germany.

Episode 17-The fall of Denmark and Norway.

Landlocked Denmark surrenders, but Norway resists. The British try to help but are not organized or equipped properly.

Episode 16-The Phony War and Finland’s defeat.

The Allies wait for Hitler and Stalin uses the war to attack Finland. But the Soviet Army is far from ready.

Episode 15-The fall of Poland.

Hitler's bluffing to gain an empire is over. He will have to fight from now on.

Episode 14-The last days of peace.

Diplomatic wrangling rages over Europe during the summer of 1939.

Episode 13-The line is drawn.

Britain and France are finished giving in to Hitler.

Episode 12-Appeasement.

Hitler's sabre rattling earns him Austria and the Munich Agreement.

Episode 11-Europe 1933 to 1937.

Europe 1933-1937: Ethiopia, Rhineland, Spanish Civil War.

Episode 10-The Nazification of Germany.

The Nazi Party implements Hitler's vision as written in Mein Kampf.

Episode 9-Hitler takes on the World.

Hitler, now in power, removes his enemies and defies the international community.

Episode 8-Japan’s China policy?

Japan struggles to define its policy on China, but events take the decision out the military's hands.

Episode 7-Japan expands into China.

Japan continues to expand their operations into China and find themselves facing Chairman Mao, backed by the Soviet Union and Chiang Kai Shek.

Episode 6-Japan, 1853-1936.

Japan is opened up to western ways, but the government loses control of the military. Covers from 1853 to 1936.

Episode 5-Il Duce (The Leader)

Episode covers the first 10 years of Mussolini as Dictator.

Episode 4-Mussolini 1918 to 1922.

Episode covers Mussolini from the end of WWI to his being elevated to power.

Episode 3-Early life of Mussolini.

Episode covers the early life of Mussolini.

Episode 2-Nazi Politics, 1929-1933

Episode covers German politics and the rise of the Nazi Party from the Great Depression until Hitler comes to power in January 1933.

Episode 1-Rise of the Nazi Party.

This episode covers Germany from the end of World War I to the advent of The Great Depression.   REFERENCES:   The Rise and Fall of the...