We're Not Experts - Two Amateurs Muddle Through History
A relaxed history podcast hosted by two self-proclaimed amateurs, Sarah Smith and James Nason. Each episode they select a historical topic, ranging from ancient empires to royal scandals, and explore the strange and surprising details. The show aims to be accessible and entertaining, welcoming both history enthusiasts and casual listeners who enjoy curious facts. It doesn't take itself too seriously, offering a humorous take on the past.
Episodes
Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore: Artists of Resistance
In this episode, our two amateur historians explore the remarkable lives of Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore – a fearless duo of artists, lovers, and resistance fighters. From surrealist self-portraits to daring acts of defiance against the Nazis, we uncover how these creative rebels used art as a weapon and identity as a statement. Expect fascinating stories, a touch of humour, and plenty of admirat
The Emu Wars
In this episode, two amateur historians dive beak-first into one of the most bizarre chapters of Australian history: the Great Emu War of 1932. Yes, it really happened—and yes, the emus won. With plenty of laughs, questionable military strategy, and some surprisingly serious takeaways, we unpack how a bunch of oversized birds outwitted the Australian army. Perfect for fans of weird history, casual
The Darien Scheme
In this episode, our two amateur historians wade into the wild and wonderfully doomed world of the Darien Scheme – Scotland’s bold (and very expensive) attempt to set up a colony in Panama in the late 1690s. Expect tropical dreams, financial disasters, and a healthy dose of hindsight-fuelled head-shaking, as they unravel how an entire nation's future was almost sunk in the swampy heat of Central A
West Auckland F.C. and the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy
In this episode, two amateur historians explore the incredible true story of West Auckland F.C. A team of miners who defied the odds to win the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy, often dubbed the first unofficial World Cup. With their trademark mix of curiosity and humour, they uncover how a humble Northern football club ended up representing England and beating some of Europe’s finest, all on a shoestring
There'll Never Be Another Max Miller
In this solo episode, James explores the life and career of Max Miller, one of Britain’s most famous comedians and entertainers.Known as the “Cheeky Chappie,” Miller became a star of music hall and variety theatre, with a style that made him a household name across Britain. James looks at his rise to fame, his influence on British comedy, and the legacy he left behind.
The History of the Falkland Islands Part 2 | The Falklands War
In Part 2 of our Falkland Islands series, Sarah and James discuss the events of the 1982 Falklands War.We explore how the conflict unfolded, the military campaign, and the experiences of those involved, as well as the lasting impact the war had on the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom, and Argentina.Join us as we conclude the story of one of the most significant conflicts in modern British hist
The History of the Falkland Islands Part 1 | Discovery, Settlement and Sovereignty
In Part 1 of this two-part series, Sarah and James explore the early history of the Falkland Islands.From the first European sightings and competing territorial claims to settlement and life on the islands, we trace the events that shaped the Falklands long before the conflict of 1982.Join us as we examine the people, politics, and history behind one of the world's most disputed island groups.
The Escape from Stalag Luft III | The True Story Behind The Great Escape
In this episode, Sarah and James explore the remarkable story of the escape from Stalag Luft III, one of the most famous prisoner-of-war camps of the Second World War.Home to captured Allied airmen, the camp became the setting for an extraordinary escape plan involving months of secret preparation, ingenuity, and determination. We discuss how the tunnels were built, the challenges faced by the pri
The 1976 Heatwave | Britain's Legendary Summer
In this episode, Sarah and James look back at the unforgettable British heatwave of 1976—a summer remembered for blazing sunshine, drought, standpipes, and record-breaking temperatures.But was it really Britain's hottest summer?We explore the science behind the heatwave, the impact it had on everyday life, and why it has remained one of the most talked-about summers in British history. From water
Shadow Over Hammersmith | The Unsolved Murders That Haunted 1960s London
Viewer discretion is advised.In this episode, Sarah and James explore the disturbing story behind Shadow Over Hammersmith — a series of murders that cast a shadow over West London during the 1960s.As fear spread through the community, investigators faced a complex and troubling case that would leave a lasting mark on the area. Together, we examine the events, the people involved, and the wider soc
Ernest Shackleton | The Greatest Survival Story Ever Told
In this episode, Sarah and James explore the extraordinary story of explorer Ernest Shackleton and the doomed Endurance expedition.After their ship became trapped and eventually crushed by Antarctic ice, Shackleton and his crew found themselves stranded in one of the most hostile environments on Earth. What followed was an astonishing tale of endurance, leadership, determination, and survival agai
The Invention of Television | From Victorian Science to Modern TV
In this episode, Sarah and James explore the fascinating story behind the invention of television.From early Victorian scientific experiments and strange mechanical devices to the breakthrough ideas that eventually changed the world, we trace the long journey that led to modern TV.Along the way, we look at the inventors, discoveries, and technological leaps that transformed television from an impo
History’s Weirdest Trends (And Why They Actually Made Sense)
In this episode, Sarah and James explore some of the strangest trends in history — from garden hermits and tulip mania to miasma theory and the fear of “bad air”.But rather than simply laughing at the past, we look at the reasoning behind these ideas and why they actually made sense to the people living at the time.Because history’s strangest trends often reveal something much deeper about how peo
The 1855 Clown Riots | One of Canada’s Strangest Riots
In this episode, Sarah and James explore the strange true story of the in Toronto.What started as a fight 'over a hat' soon escalated into violence, unrest, and large-scale disorder involving rival groups, firefighters, and angry crowds.But beneath the bizarre name lies a fascinating glimpse into life in 19th century Canada — a world shaped by rivalry, public spectacle, and tensions that could qui
Made in Basildon: What It Means to Be 14th Generation
In this episode of Made in Basildon, we do something a little different as we turn the focus onto co-host James.James is a 14th generation Basildon resident, with family roots in the area stretching back centuries. In this conversation, we explore what that really means, from family history and identity to how Basildon has changed over time.It’s a personal and reflective look at what it means to b
Made in Basildon: Three Generations, One Town
In this episode of Made in Basildon, we bring together three people from different generations to share their experiences of growing up in the same town.We ask people from a Baby Boomer, Generation X, and Millennial background the same questions to see how their answers compare.From changing communities to shifting lifestyles, it’s a conversation that explores how Basildon has evolved—and what’s s
The Disappearance of Frederick Valentich | Australia’s Strangest Aviation Mystery
In this episode, we explore the mysterious disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich, who vanished over the coast of Australia in 1978 during a routine flight.Midway through his journey, Valentich reported an unknown aircraft following him—before all contact was suddenly lost.What happened that night? Mechanical failure, disorientation… or something far stranger?We take a calm, grounded look at t
Made in Basildon: The Silent Generation (Life in Basildon in the 1940s–60s)
What was Basildon really like back in the day?In this episode of Made in Basildon, we chat with two residents in their 80s who have spent their entire lives in the town. From early memories to how things have changed, this is a fascinating glimpse into Basildon through the eyes of the Silent Generation.With special thanks to Geraldine Evans and Ken Porter.
The Morris Oxford: A Very British Family Car
In this episode, Sarah takes the lead as she and co-host James explore the story of one of Britain’s most dependable family cars — the Morris Oxford.Often overshadowed by its smaller sibling, the Morris Minor, the Oxford quietly played a huge role in everyday British life throughout the mid-20th century. From the early post-war models to the later Farina-styled versions, it was the sensible saloon
The Mystery of Black Shuck | English Folklore
In this episode, we take a wander into the legend of Black Shuck, the mysterious phantom black dog said to haunt East Anglia.We chat about the famous storm of 1577, the stories from Bungay and Blythburgh, and how one particularly dramatic church incident helped cement The Shuck firmly into local legend.Was it mass hysteria? A storm-born story? Or just a very large dog with unfortunate timing?As al
The History of the Morris Minor: Britain's Favourite Car?
In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of the Morris Minor — from its hopeful beginnings in post-war Britain to the final production cars that marked the end of an era.We talk about the Minor Million, why production eventually came to a close, what replaced it, and what became of Morris Motors in the shifting landscape of British motoring. And of course, we reflect on the enduring legacy
Josephine Baker: From Stage Sensation to Resistance Hero
In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of Josephine Baker — a woman who defied expectation at every turn.Best known as a dazzling performer in 1920s Paris, Baker became one of the most famous entertainers in the world. But behind the glamour was a woman of extraordinary courage. During the Second World War, she worked with the French Resistance, using her celebrity status to gather intell
The History Bluff: Can They Spot the Lies?
In this episode Sarah serves up a buffet of bizarre, shocking, and downright unbelievable historical scenarios—and it’s up to James and special guest Richard to separate the truth from the tall tales. Can they spot the real history, or will they be duped by Sarah’s sneaky made-up facts? Tune in for laughs, surprises, and a playful dive into the weird side of history!
We Are the Robots: The Kraftwerk Story
Hailing from the industrial heart of Düsseldorf, Kraftwerk are the undisputed godfathers of electronic music. Emerging in the early 1970s, founders Ralf Hütter and Florian Schneider moved away from traditional rock to forge a revolutionary "musical language" using synthesisers, drum machines and vocoders. This podcast explores their journey from the experimental "Krautrock" scene to the creation o
Am I Evil?: A History of Heavy Metal
Join us as we explore James' own history of heavy metal, tracing the genre's life across five tumultuous decades. We dive into the genesis with Black Sabbath and the DIY spirit of the NWOBHM, before confronting the Grunge Challenge that inspired the groove of Pantera and the rise of Nu-Metal. We examine why metal's dark lyrical themes became the ultimate symbol of rebellion, dissect the high drama
Real or Rubbish? Medieval Mayhem!
Step into the Middle Ages — where the facts are strange, the stories are stranger, and Sarah is armed with a list of medieval oddities designed to confuse her co-host entirely. In this episode, our two amateur historians play Medieval True or False, featuring bizarre real events, convincing fakes, and enough chaos to make a monk swear. Can James tell genuine medieval history from the stuff that's
When London Disappeared: The Great Smog of 1952
Join two amateur historians; Sarah and James, as we take a misty stroll back to one of London’s strangest and deadliest weeks — the Great Smog of 1952. What started as an ordinary cold December quickly turned into a city-wide blackout of soot, smoke, coal fumes, and confusion.We chat through how the smog formed, why it got so bad, what daily life looked like when you could barely see your own feet
Secrets Beneath the Waves: The Fate of HMS E22
Join our two amateur historians as they dive into the remarkable — and often overlooked — story of HMS E22, a British E-class submarine with a brief but dramatic role in the First World War. From the experimental aircraft-launching trials she took part in, to the tragic mission that led to her sinking in 1916, this episode explores the innovative ideas, strategic risks, and human stories behind on
The Great British Chill: A History of Keeping Warm
Before the thermostat, there was the hearth — and a lot of shivering. In this episode, two amateur historians chat about how people in Britain kept warm before central heating: from layers of wool and roaring fires to bed warmers and questionable “heat hacks.” Grab a blanket and a cuppa as we explore the cosy (and not-so-cosy) side of history.
History's Firsts - A Fun Quiz!
This week, it’s Sarah’s turn to face the questions — and the pressure! Her co-host tests her on some of history’s most surprising firsts: the first colour photograph, the first laptop, even the first… well, you’ll have to listen to find out.Will she triumph with her historical knowledge? (Spoiler: absolutely not.) Expect laughter, wild guesses, and plenty of unexpected facts from the pages of hist
Truth or Twaddle? Victorian Edition
Step back into the smog and splendour of the Victorian era, where nothing was too strange to be true — or was it? In this episode our two amateur historians explore various bizarre Victorian 'facts' and try to decipher which are true and which are absolute nonsense.Strangely this is easier said than done!
The Story of Gef - The Talking Mongoose
In this episode, we dive into one of the strangest tales from the 1930s — the story of Gef the Talking Mongoose. Was he a clever animal, a family hoax, or something far stranger? Join two amateur historians as they unravel the bizarre case of the Isle of Man’s most talkative houseguest.
Are You Smarter Than a Ten Year Old?
"Welcome to 'Are You Smarter Than a 10-Year-Old?' – a very last-minute, slightly chaotic podcast where we (two grown-ups with questionable brain cells) attempt to answer schoolkid-level questions. Expect some wrong answers, laughter, and probably some humble pie as we realise just how tricky those 10-year-old questions can be. Honestly, it might be one of our worst podcasts…
Death by Misadventure: The Weirdest Ends in History
History is full of battles, inventions, and discoveries… but also some of the most ridiculous ways people have managed to meet their end. From kings and commoners to poets and peasants, some exits from this world were so strange they almost sound made up.In this episode, two amateur historians share some of the most bizarre deaths through the centuries — part cautionary tale, part comedy of errors
The Lost Messages of the Red Star
Our two amateur historians dive into one of the strangest wartime tales you’ve probably never heard: The Lost Messages of the Red Star. From whispered codes and hidden signals to the possibility of a Soviet prank gone way too far, we ask the big question—was it real history or just another tall tale?Join us as we swap theories, laugh at the oddities, and try to separate fact from fiction in this b
History’s Oddities: Real or Rubbish?
History is full of strange stories — but can you tell which ones are true? In this episode of Histories Oddities, two amateur historians dive into the weirdest tales from the past. From angry rabbits to foot long spoons, one story is real, and the other is completely made up. Can you spot the fact from the fiction before the big reveal?”
The Wych Elm Enigma
In 1943, four boys in Worcestershire stumbled on a skeleton hidden inside a hollow wych elm — sparking a mystery that still puzzles historians today. Who was she, and why did graffiti soon ask, ‘Who put Bella in the Wych Elm?’ Join two curious amateur historians as they pick apart one of Britain’s oddest unsolved cases with equal measures of fascination and fun.
Broadcasting the Barricades: The Riot that Never Was
In this episode, our two amateur historians explore the strange case of the BBC’s fake 1926 broadcast. Join us as we dive into how a satirical sketch during the General Strike caused confusion, outrage, and even rumours of revolution. Was it just a harmless joke, or a glimpse into the power of radio in shaping public perception?
Dance 'til You Drop - The Dancing Plague of 1518
Join two enthusiastic amateur historians as they waltz their way through one of history’s strangest footnotes: the Dancing Plague of 1518. With a light-hearted mix of banter, bizarre facts, and a dash of scepticism, they explore how a crowd in Strasbourg found themselves jigging, jumping, and collapsing in the streets. Was it mass hysteria? Ergot poisoning? Or just a medieval excuse for a knees-up
Droppings and Doom: The Great Horse Manure Crisis of 1894
Two keen but thoroughly amateur historians saddle up to revisit the infamous Great Horse Manure Crisis of 1894. With more wit than scholarship, they trot through the muck of Victorian London’s woes, unearthing how a city almost drowned in horse droppings — and what it all tells us about progress, panic, and the peculiarities of history.
The Great Stink of 1858 - The Crisis That Changed London Forever
Our two amateur historians are back, and this time they are stepping back to the sweltering summer of 1858, when London was brought to a very smelly standstill by the infamous Great Stink. In this episode, they will explore the over flowing sewers, panicked politicians, and the rather fragrant spark that pushed the city towards modern sanitation. Expect history with a whiff of humour as they uncov
Alan Turing: Architect of the Digital Age
In this episode, the usual two hosts have been dispensed with and replaced by Artificial Intelligence as we look at the life and works of Alan Turing. From his groundbreaking theory of the Turing Machine and his pivotal role in cracking the Enigma code to his later persecution and enduring legacy, we explore the extraordinary mind who built the foundation for the digital world we live in today.Res
I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue: A Comic Legacy
In this episode James takes a cheerful stroll through the history of the much-loved radio panel show I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue. From its anarchic beginnings in the early 1970s to its enduring status as the “antidote to panel games,” James shares amusing facts, behind-the-scenes snippets, and his own fond memories of the show's wit and absurdity.
The Rendlesham Forest Incident - Is this Britain's Roswell?
Join two curious amateur historians as they swap theories, share laughs, and delve into the mysterious goings-on of the Rendlesham Forest incident. From UFO sightings to strange lights in the trees, they explore it all with a blend of intrigue, humour, and a dash of scepticism.
Life in the Workhouse
Ever wondered what life was actually like inside a Victorian workhouse? Spoiler: it wasn’t exactly cosy. In this episode, our two amateur historians lift the lid on the daily grind, grim meals, and strict rules that shaped life behind those infamous doors. From workhouse uniforms to gruelling routines, we explore the reality of an institution designed to be more punishment than support—sprinkled,
The Story of the Workhouse
Join our two amateur historians as they take a wander through the history of the workhouse—where poverty met paperwork, and things rarely ended well. From its rise as a so-called solution to society’s problems, to its eventual decline, they chat through the highs (not many) and lows (plenty), all with a dose of humour, a few dodgy facts, and the usual back-and-forth. Grab a cuppa and join us as we
The Devil's Hoofprints
In this episode, two amateur historians discuss the strange and snowy mystery of the Devil’s Hoofprints of 1855. After a heavy snowfall blanketed Devon, eerie hoof-like marks appeared overnight—stretching for miles across roofs, rivers, and fields. Was it a case of mass hysteria, a rogue animal... or something more sinister? Join us as we explore one of Victorian England’s most curious unexplained
Albert Cashier: Civil War Soldier
In this episode, two amateur historians delve into the remarkable life of Albert Cashier — a Civil War soldier who defied the expectations of 19th-century America. With curiosity, insight, and a touch of banter, they explore Albert's time in the Union Army, his post-war life, and how his story challenges our understanding of gender and identity in history. Perfect for fans of untold historical sto
The Industrial Revolution Part 3: Life in Britain After the Industrial Revolution
In this episode, two amateur historians dive into the whirlwind world of life in Britain after the Industrial Revolution. From smoky cities to social shifts, they explore how steam power, railways, and factories reshaped everyday life—from the rise of the working class to the invention of the weekend. Expect lively banter, curious facts, and a few laughs as they uncover how Victorian innovation ch
The Industrial Revolution Part 2: Life in Britain During the Industrial Revolution
In this episode, our two amateur historians fire up the engines (metaphorically) and take you on a whirlwind tour through the Industrial Revolution. From spinning jennies to steam trains, coal mines to canals, they explore the wild inventions, bold ideas, and questionable hygiene that powered Britain into a new age. Expect laughs, lighthearted learning, and just enough historical detail to impress
The Industrial Revolution Part 1: Life in Britain Before the Industrial Revolution
Join two enthusiastic amateur historians as they bumble through Britain before the Industrial Revolution — a time of mud, manual labour, and excellent hats. In this episode, they explore what everyday life was really like when "Wi-Fi" meant "wife by the fire" and your daily step count came from chasing your dinner. Expect quirky facts, curious tales, and just enough historical accuracy to keep the
The 1969 Football War: El Salvador v Honduras
In this episode, two amateur historians unpack the dramatic events of the 1969 Football War — a brief but intense conflict between El Salvador and Honduras sparked during a World Cup qualifier. Mixing history with humour, they explore how tensions on the pitch escalated into a real-life war, shedding light on the deeper political and social issues behind the headlines. Perfect for fans of football
Blazing Through History: The Great Fire of London 1666
Join two amateur historians as they take a crackling stroll through the smoke and chaos of the Great Fire of London. With some dry humour and the occasional mangled pronunciation thrown in, they delve into how a small spark on Pudding Lane set the city ablaze and reshaped London forever.From Samuel Pepys’ diary entries to dubious fire safety measures (or lack thereof), this episode explores the f
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral: A Short from James
Saddle up for a bite sized blast of Wild West drama as James unpacks the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. In just five minutes, James explores the story of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the 30 seconds of gunfire that became legend in US history.
The Dodleston Messages
In this episode, our two amateur historians tackle the wonderfully weird case of the Dodleston Messages – a tale involving a haunted BBC Micro, time travel via word processor, and a bloke from the 1500s who somehow mastered digital chat. Expect wild theories, and a timeline more tangled than a plate of spaghetti.Warning: side effects may include confusion, mild paranoia, and a nap halfway through
Bring Out Your Dead - The Great Plague of London 1665
Ready to jump into 1665 without needing a time machine or a biohazard suit? In this episode, our two favourite amateur historians (emphasis on amateur) tackle the Great Plague of London—because nothing says “lighthearted banter” like bubonic death and 17th-century sanitation!Join us as we unpack how fleas, rats, and questionable medical advice combined to turn London into a real-life horror story.
The Eilean Mòr Mystery
In this intriguing episode, we delve into the mysterious disappearance of the lighthouse keepers on Eilean Mòr—one of Scotland’s most puzzling unsolved cases. With curiosity and a dash of humour, we explore the theories, folklore, and eerie clues behind the 1900 mystery that still baffles experts today. Tune in for a lighthearted look at a dark tale from the windswept Flannan Isles!
When Sneezing Was Deadly - The Black Death of 1348
In this lively episode of our history podcast, we delve into the murky world of the Black Death of 1348. With a mix of curiosity and dry wit, we explore how the plague swept through medieval Europe, changing society forever. From bizarre remedies to questionable hygiene, nothing is off-limits in this engaging and surprisingly relatable chat. Whether you're a history buff or just in it for the mor
The Night the Earth Stood Still (for six minutes)
In this curious episode, we tune in to the bizarre 1977 Southern Television broadcast hack — when an unknown voice claiming to be from the "Ashtar Galactic Command" interrupted the evening news across parts of the UK. Was it a prank, a protest, or something more otherworldly? Join us as we explore one of Britain's most mysterious and mischievous TV moments that left viewers baffled and conspiracy
Pitchforks and Protest: The Peasants' Revolt of 1381
From Wat Tyler’s fiery speeches to the surprising role of a teenage king, this episode blends fascinating facts with a good dose of humour. Whether you're a history buff or just here for the banter, you'll love this lively look at one of England’s most rebellious moments. Tune in now for a cheerful chinwag about medieval mayhem!
Operation Mincemeat - The Man Who Never Was
In this gripping episode, we get stuck into the brilliantly bonkers tale of Operation Mincemeat — the top-secret WWII deception that fooled Hitler and helped turn the tide of the war. Join us as we unpack how a dead body, a briefcase full of fake intel, and a dash of British eccentricity led to one of the most daring wartime hoaxes ever pulled off. If you're into clever cloak-and-dagger stories fr
Hero of Alexandria - A Short by James
Discover the fascinating world of ancient innovation in this short podcast episode about Hero of Alexandria, the brilliant Greek engineer and inventor. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike, this bite-sized podcast explores Hero’s remarkable inventions—including the world’s first steam turbine —and his lasting influence on science and engineering. Tune in now to learn more about
The Most Ridiculous Fashion Trends in History
Join us as we discuss the bizarre, baffling and downright bonkers side of style. From powdered wigs the size of small ponies to skyscraper shoes, this episode is unpicking the threads of fashion's most questionable moments. Whether you're a style guru or just here for the giggles, this is your front-row seat to the wardrobe disasters that made history.
The Honeypot Lane Murders - A Short by James
In this gripping short podcast episode, James delves into the chilling case of the Honeypot Lane murders in Basildon, Essex, a crime that shocked the country.
Confess Witch! Matthew Hopkins - Witchfinder General
In this episode, we dive broomstick first into the eerie world of Matthew Hopkins, England's infamous Witchfinder General. With a mix of curious banter, historical sleuthing, and just the right amount of cackling, we unearth the strange, spooky, and often absurd tales of 17th century witch hunts, and most importantly, attempt to answer the question; Who gave this guy a badge, and why was everyone
Guess Who Started a Civil War
Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of the English Civil War without the dusty textbooks or fancy degrees. From battles and be-headings to big egos and bad decisions, Guess Who Started a Civil War breaks down the drama of the 1600s with curiosity, laughs, and the occasional confused tangent. If you like history with a bit of banter, this one's for you.
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