Shows
Pieces of HistoryThe Other Family - Inside New Jersey's DeCavalcante Crime SyndicateIn this episode of Pieces of History, I’m heading into the shadow world of organised crime with crime historian and author Scott M. Deitche, whose books and documentaries have become essential reading for anyone interested in the American Mafia. From Garden State Gangland to Cigar City Mafia and The Silent Don, Scott has built a career uncovering stories hidden in court files, surveillance tapes, and long-forgotten archives.Our conversation focuses on the DeCavalcante crime family of New Jersey — a lesser-known but powerful organisation that operated alongside New York’s syndicates while carving out its own territory in New...
2026-02-1122 min
Pieces of HistoryFrom the Same Hills, Different Roads – The Joy–Dean StoryIn the second episode of Season Four, Pieces of History returns to the Belfast Hills for the next chapter of Phil Donnelly’s family journey, turning to the Joy–Dean line - a story rooted in the same landscape, but shaped by different choices and remarkable lives.Phil’s research introduces Margaret Joy and Philip Dean, whose mid-1700s marriage crossed religious boundaries in a way that was bold for its time. We then follow one of the most surprising figures in the family tree: Fr. Joseph Joy Dean, who rose from the Hills to the Spanish royal...
2026-01-2831 min
Clare FMThe Beckham Family Feud ExplainedThere’s been a major development in one of the world’s most high-profile families this week.
Brooklyn Beckham has spoken out publicly for the first time about an ongoing rift with his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, accusing them of control, manipulation, and prioritising the “Brand Beckham” over family relationships.
His explosive social media statement has sparked widespread debate — not just about celebrity families, but about adult children, boundaries, and why family estrangement is far more common than many people realise.
Clare FM’s Colum McGrath spoke with Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus.
2026-01-2210 min
Clare FMColum McGrath's Final Report From KenyaWe’re finishing our week of reports from Kenya this morning with Colum McGrath’s final piece from Mombasa.
It brings us inside a primary school built by the Ray of Sunshine Foundation and introduces us to the people — both local and Irish — who’ve helped make the project a reality.
2026-01-1912 min
Clare FMColum McGrath Brings Inside Look At Ray of Sunshine Project In LikoniWe’re back in Kenya this morning with another update from the Ray of Sunshine Foundation building project in Likoni, just outside Mombasa.
The piece begins with a song from one of the teenage girls living at Sunshine House, before Colum introduces us to the people helping to change lives there.
Photo (c) Ray of Sunshine
2026-01-1607 min
Cork TodayCorkToday 14th January 2026Forsa on their member survey showing 67% of health workers are actively considering leaving their role, a change to colour vision entry requirements for craft apprenticeships, why dividing young GAA players into teams based on their ability can be beneficial, former C103 presenter Colum McGrath live from Kenya where he is with The Ray of Sunshine Foundation, gardening advice with Peter Dowdall and more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2026-01-141h 41Clare FMClare FM's Colum McGrath In KenyaOn Wednesday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey, we brought you an update from a Clare based charity who are currently in Kenya working on a building project in a primary school
Colum McGrath is in Mombasa with the Ray of Sunshine Foundation, following the completion of the project he witnessed the start of, in September. He caught up with some of the volunteers.
Photo (c) Ray of Sunshine
2026-01-1409 min
Pieces of HistoryEngineering the Amazon: The Lost Landscapes of the Llanos de MojosThe latest episode of Pieces of History journeys into the Bolivian Amazon and a vast, seasonally flooded region known as the Llanos de Mojos — a landscape that is reshaping how historians and archaeologists understand the ancient Amazon.Long imagined as an untouched wilderness, the rainforest is now known to have been carefully shaped over centuries. Research has revealed enormous human-engineered environments of raised fields, forest islands, canals, and causeways, built through long-term planning and everyday labour.Joining me is Dr. John Walker, Associate Professor at the University of Central Florida, whose work explores how pre-Columbian co...
2026-01-1438 min
Clare FMPop Culture: Films To See In 2026If your New Year's resolution is to watch more films, you're going to be busy.
A smorgasbord of films are due for release in 2026: from the retelling of the Saipan showdown between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy, to Irish Oscar hopes resting on the performances of Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal in Hamnet...to a feelgood true story about a Neil Diamond tribute act!
For a preview of the must-sees and avoid at all costs flicks , Alan Morrissey was joined by Clare FM’s Colum McGrath.
2026-01-0611 min
Pieces of HistoryIn the Shadow of the Hills - The Magees of HannahstownEpisode twenty-eight of Pieces of History takes us into the Belfast Hills, where the story of the Magee family offers a rare window into life in Hannahstown in the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.Through the research of Phil Donnelly, we uncover how ordinary families lived under extraordinary pressure - from the legacy of the Penal Laws to the quiet resilience of faith at hidden Mass Rocks. At the centre is Edward Magee of Carnaghliss, whose farm records and surviving fragments reveal rural life on the eve of famine.We explore kinship ties with the...
2025-12-3125 min
Pieces of HistoryMeiji Firestorm: The Collapse of the Samurai WorldEpisode twenty-seven of the new series of Pieces of History takes us into the turbulent final years of the Tokugawa shogunate — a period of political upheaval, foreign intrusion, and samurai-driven revolution that culminated in the Meiji Restoration. It is one of the most transformative chapters in Japan’s history, when centuries of tradition collided with the urgent need for national survival and modernisation.Joining me for this episode is author and historian Romulus Hillsborough, whose decades of research into the Bakumatsu era have helped illuminate the lives, motives, and struggles of the people who shaped it. Romulus, whos...
2025-12-1728 min
Pieces of History'Little Berlin': The Divided Village of MödlareuthEpisode twenty-six of the new series of Pieces of History takes us to one of the most strikingly symbolic places in Cold War Europe: Mödlareuth - the tiny village once known as “Little Berlin.” With only a few dozen residents, this quiet rural community found itself split by a concrete wall after 1945, becoming an unexpected microcosm of division and ideology.Joining me is historian Susan Berger, whose work focuses on the lived experiences of ordinary people shaped by major political events. Susan guides us through Mödlareuth’s past: what the village was like before the division...
2025-12-0329 min
Pieces of HistoryGhosts of Spain: Landscapes, Memory & the Spanish Civil WarEpisode twenty-five of the new series of Pieces of History turns its gaze to Spain - a country where landscapes, ruins, and silences still carry the weight of a conflict that ended nearly a century ago. The Spanish Civil War continues to shape identity, politics, and memory, yet much of its legacy remains contested, hidden, or unspoken.Joining me is writer and historian Nick Lloyd, whose long connection with Spain and deep engagement with the war’s legacy come together in his powerful book Travels Through the Spanish Civil War. Rather than offering a traditional historical account, Nic...
2025-11-1924 min
Pieces of HistorySilk Mirage: Through the Looking Glass in UzbekistanEpisode twenty-four of the new series of Pieces of History turns the spotlight on Uzbekistan - a country often overlooked in global discussions yet rich in history, culture, and complexity. From the Silk Road cities of Samarkand and Bukhara to the modern-day shifts reshaping its society, Uzbekistan stands at a fascinating crossroads of past and future.Joining me is journalist and author Joanna Lillis, a long-time observer of Central Asia whose latest book, Silk Mirage: Through the Looking Glass in Uzbekistan, offers a vivid and revealing portrait of the country today. Together, we explore Uzbekistan’s geography, po...
2025-11-0534 min
Pieces of HistoryFrom Red Hugh to the Grand Fleet - Stories of RathmullanEpisode twenty-two of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to Rathmullan - a coastal village on the shores of Lough Swilly whose story spans centuries of Irish history. My guest is local historian and guide Deirdra Friel, who helps trace Rathmullan’s remarkable past - from the legacy of the McSweeneys and the Abbey to its surprising links with figures like Davy Crockett. We explore the dramatic kidnap of Red Hugh O’Donnell and the Flight of the Earls, events that changed the course of Ireland’s story, before turning to the turbulence of 1798, when W...
2025-10-2249 min
Pieces of HistoryFrom Castle to Cathedral - The Story of LisburnEpisode twenty-one of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to Lisburn, a city with a layered past and a living heritage.My guest is local historian and tour guide Aaron McIntyre, who helps trace Lisburn’s story from its earliest settlements to the city we see today. We look at the debate around its pre-Plantation origins, the transformation of the seventeenth century with the Plantation, linen, and Lisburn Castle, and the great fire of 1707 that reshaped its streets and architecture.Moving into the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Aaron explores the dominance of th...
2025-10-0825 min
Pieces of HistoryDrawing the Roman PastEpisode twenty of the new season of Pieces of History brings us into the world of Roman Britain through the work of archaeologist and illustrator Dr. David Neal. Over his career, Dr. Neal has recorded and interpreted some of the most important mosaics ever uncovered in Britain.We’ll trace his journey from early influences and training, to the moment he discovered the connection between art and archaeology. Along the way, Dr. Neal explains what mosaics are, why they matter, and what they reveal about Roman society and daily life. He shares how he developed new techniques to...
2025-09-2427 min
Pieces of HistoryKilkenny: Where History Walks the StreetsEpisode nineteen of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to the heart of Ireland’s medieval capital - Kilkenny. I’m joined by John Comerford, a local historian and tour guide, to explore the city’s rich past and enduring legacy.Together, we’ll walk through Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile, uncovering stories behind its well-preserved cobblestone streets, soaring cathedrals, and, of course, the imposing Kilkenny Castle. John shares how the city’s unique blend of Norman, ecclesiastical, and civic architecture reflects centuries of power, faith, and community life.From medieval guilds to political in...
2025-09-1030 min
Pieces of HistoryA Most Audacious HeistEpisode eighteen of the new season of Pieces of History delves into a tale of intrigue, ambition, and one of the most daring thefts in history. Journalist and podcast writer Emma-Jane Kirby joins me to discuss A Most Audacious Heist, her gripping show that uncovers the extraordinary true story of the theft of the Sisi Star - a priceless diamond hairpiece belonging to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sisi.We’ll explore Emma-Jane’s journey from journalism to podcasting and how her investigative background shapes the way she brings historical narratives to life. Together, we’ll unr...
2025-08-2721 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Princely HouseEpisode seventeen of the new series of Pieces of History journeys deep into the Alps - and deeper still into one of Europe’s quietest royal dynasties: the Princely House of Liechtenstein.In this episode, we follow the unlikely rise of a family that didn’t conquer a kingdom - they bought one. From medieval Austria to the court of the Habsburg emperors, the Liechtensteins navigated war, revolution, and exile not with armies, but with alliances, land deals, and political calculation.Why did they acquire two obscure Alpine territories? How did they go from absentee land...
2025-08-1327 min
Pieces of HistoryEritreaEpisode sixteen of Pieces of History journeys into the rugged landscapes and complex past of Eritrea - a nation whose story is shaped by ancient empires, fierce colonial rivalries, and decades of struggle for independence.In this episode, we explore Eritrea’s unique position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East - from its role in the ancient Aksumite Empire to centuries under Ottoman and Egyptian influence, followed by Italian colonization and the brutal fight against Ethiopian annexation.What fuelled the thirty-year war for independence? How did colonial ambitions and shifting alliances shape Er...
2025-07-3030 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Beresford ApparitionEpisode fifteen of Pieces of History takes us deep into the eerie world of 17th-century Ireland, where ghost stories, political intrigue, and family legacies intertwine.In this episode, we uncover the mysterious Beresford Apparition - a chilling spectral visitation involving Lady Beresford and Lord Tyrone that has haunted local memory for centuries. What was the story behind this famous ghostly encounter? How did it reflect the turbulent politics and social tensions of the era? And what role did prophecy and superstition play in shaping public perception?More than just a tale of hauntings, this episode...
2025-07-1620 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Norrmalmstorg RobberyEpisode fourteen of the new series of Pieces of History steps into the heart of 1970s Stockholm, where a botched bank heist gave rise to one of psychology’s most confounding concepts: Stockholm Syndrome.In this episode, we unravel the tense six-day standoff at Kreditbanken in Norrmalmstorg Square - a robbery that turned into a media circus, a national spectacle, and a defining moment in the study of trauma and empathy. As police surrounded the building, something strange was happening inside: hostages began identifying with their captors, defending them, even fearing the authorities more than the gunmen....
2025-07-0217 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Cariboo Gold RushEpisode thirteen of the new series of Pieces of History heads into the rugged wilderness of British Columbia to uncover the story of the Cariboo Gold Rush — a lesser-known but no less dramatic chapter of 19th-century North American history.This episode traces the feverish pursuit of fortune that drew thousands into remote mountain passes and dense forests, carving new routes through the Canadian frontier. I explore the chaotic rise of boomtowns, the role of Indigenous peoples and Chinese miners, and the shifting social fabric of a colony transformed by gold.Who were the dreamers and de...
2025-06-1828 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Peruvian InquisitionEpisode twelve of the new series of Pieces of History delves into the shadowy world of the Peruvian Inquisition, a chapter in colonial Latin American history often forgotten outside academic circles. This episode traces the complex layers of Peru’s past - from its rich geography and the legacy of powerful pre-Columbian empires, to the imposition of Spanish colonial rule and the creation of the Viceroyalty of Peru.We explore how faith and fear intertwined in the workings of the Tribunal of the Holy Office, a tool of control cloaked in righteousness. Who were the inquisitors? Who st...
2025-06-0427 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Hidden Rebels: Irish Women in the Jacobite CauseEpisode eleven of the new series of Pieces of History shines a light on the often-overlooked role of Irish women in Jacobite networks, revealing their significant yet underappreciated contributions to the cause. Far from passive observers, these women were active participants in the struggle to restore the Stuart monarchy, operating in a world of secrecy, strategy, and high stakes.Joining me is historian Dr. Frances Nolan, recipient of the SFI-IRC Pathway Fellowship at the UCD School of History in 2023, whose research brings fresh insight into the crucial - yet frequently underestimated - contributions of Irish women to...
2025-05-2125 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Art of HeraldryIn episode ten of the new season of Pieces of History, we turn our attention to the ancient and intricate world of heraldry. This episode features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Paul Fox, whose fascinating journey from a career in medicine to heraldic and genealogical scholarship sheds light on the enduring power of symbols, identity, and tradition.Together, we explore the rich history of heraldry - from its medieval origins on the battlefield to its ceremonial and genealogical significance today. Dr. Fox unpacks the core elements of heraldic design, including the shield, crest, banner, badge, and supporters...
2025-05-0727 min
Pieces of HistoryFriar's Bush GraveyardEpisode nine of the new season of Pieces of History uncovers the rich and often haunting history of Ireland’s graveyards. In this episode, we explore Friar’s Bush Graveyard, one of Belfast’s oldest burial sites, and its deep connections to the city’s past.Joining me are Dr Deirdre Nic an tSionnaigh and John Bradbury from Cairde na Cille, a group dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Ireland’s graveyards. Together, we delve into the key moments that have defined Friar’s Bush - from its ancient origins and ties to the penal era to its r...
2025-04-2355 min
Pieces of HistoryOld SoulsEpisode eight of the new season of Pieces of History explores the fascinating intersection of investigative journalism and the mysteries of reincarnation. Award-winning journalist and author Tom Shroder joins me to discuss Old Souls, his compelling book that follows the groundbreaking research of Dr. Ian Stevenson, a pioneer in the study of past-life memories.We’ll dive into Tom’s career in journalism, his firsthand experiences traveling to Lebanon and India to investigate extraordinary case studies, and the children whose detailed recollections of past lives defy explanation. What drew Tom to this subject? How did his journalistic appr...
2025-04-0933 min
Pieces of HistoryEoin O'Duffy and the Blueshirts: Ireland's Fascist GambleEpisode seven of the new season of Pieces of History takes us into the tumultuous world of early 20th-century Ireland, where revolution, political upheaval, and shifting ideologies shaped the nation’s future. In this episode, we examine the life and legacy of General Eoin O’Duffy - one of Ireland’s most controversial figures.Joining me is historian Jack Traynor, author of General Eoin O’Duffy: The Political Life of an Irish Firebrand. Together, we explore O’Duffy’s rise from his role in the Irish War of Independence and Civil War to his tenure as the first Commis...
2025-03-2638 min
Pieces of HistorySlave Wrecks ProjectEpisode six of the new season of Pieces of History takes us beneath the waves, where archaeology and history converge to uncover lost stories of the transatlantic slave trade. In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking work of the Slave Wrecks Project, an international effort to locate and study shipwrecks tied to the global slave trade.Joining me is Dr. Steve Lubkemann, maritime archaeologist and one of the project’s founding members. We’ll delve into how the Slave Wrecks Project began, the cutting-edge methodologies used to find and analyse these wrecks, and what these discoveries reveal abou...
2025-03-1241 min
Pieces of HistoryIrish Oral History and the Scariff MartyrsEpisode five of the new season of Pieces of History takes us deep into the heart of Ireland, where oral history preserves a powerful narrative of resistance, sacrifice, and memory. In this episode, we uncover the tragic story of the Scariff Martyrs - four young Irishmen executed by British forces in 1920 during the War of Independence.Joining me is historian and award-winning Oral Historian Tomás Mac Conmara, whose work has safeguarded the voices and experiences of those who lived through Ireland’s revolutionary past. We’ll explore not just the brutal events in Scariff but also the e...
2025-02-2648 min
Pieces of HistoryDark Shadows: Inside the Secret World of KazakhstanEpisode four of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to the vast landscapes of Central Asia, as we explore the history, politics, and culture of Kazakhstan with journalist Joanna Lillis.In this episode, we’ll trace Kazakhstan’s journey from its Soviet past to its present-day identity as a modern nation. We’ll examine the country’s political landscape, the impact of independence, and the cultural forces that continue to shape its society.Joanna Lillis, a Kazakhstan-based journalist and author of Dark Shadows: Inside the Secret World of Kazakhstan, brings her deep expertis...
2025-02-1243 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Death Match: Start vs FlakelfEpisode three of the new season of Pieces of History delves into the captivating story of “The Death Match” – Start vs Flakelf.In this episode, we’ll explore the rich history of Ukraine, from its early origins to its cultural and political evolution. We’ll dive into the development of football in the country, tracing its growth and the rise of Dynamo Kiev as a dominant force. Finally, we’ll uncover the gripping story of the match between Start and Flakelf, examining the events leading up to it, the intense game itself, and the consequences that followed.Join me...
2025-01-2938 min
Pieces of HistoryAlamut CastleEpisode two of the new season of Pieces of History delves into the captivating story of Alamut Castle.In this episode, we’ll journey to the dramatic setting of this legendary stronghold, exploring its strategic location and uncovering the purpose behind its creation. We'll investigate who established and utilised Alamut, with a focus on the enigmatic Order of the Assassins and their intriguing history. Finally, we’ll trace the castle’s rise and eventual downfall, uncovering the layers of mystery and power that surround it.Join me as I bring this remarkable chapter of history to lif...
2025-01-1524 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Trinity Street GhostWelcome back to Pieces of History! After a four-year hiatus, the podcast that brings you captivating tales from the past is making its long-awaited return. This season, I’m diving back into the events, people, and stories that shaped our world - both the famous and forgotten.Kicking off our new series is a spine-tingling episode on the Trinity Street Ghost, a chilling tale that captured the imagination of Northern Ireland in the 1930s. In today’s episode, we’ll uncover the mystery of this ghostly legend, exploring its historical context, the cultural attitudes toward hauntings, and the en...
2025-01-0129 min
Pieces of HistoryBrilliant OrangeJoining me this week is acclaimed author and journalist David Winner. David is best known for his groundbreaking book, Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic Genius of Dutch Football, a seminal work that goes beyond the pitch to explore the deep connections between Dutch football, national identity, and cultural history.In this episode, we delve into the origins of Total Football in the 1960s, tracing its revolutionary impact on the game and the visionary role of Johan Cruyff in shaping modern football. David also shares insights into the rise of Ajax, the evolution of the Dutch national team, and...
2020-09-3046 min
Pieces of HistoryBrilliant OrangeJoining me this week is David Winner. David is author of Brilliant Orange: The Neurotic genius of Dutch football – a seminal football book on the history of the Netherlands from the birth of Total Football in the sixties, Johan Cruyff and Ajax to the Dutch National team and the culture that spawned them.
2020-09-3000 min
Pieces of HistoryA Life in the CIAJoining me this week is Professor James Olson, a veteran of the intelligence world with over thirty years of experience in the Directorate of Operations at the Central Intelligence Agency. Throughout his distinguished career, he served primarily overseas in clandestine operations, navigating the complex and often dangerous world of espionage.In this episode, Professor Olson generously shares insights into his journey into the CIA, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to become a spy and the rigorous training involved. We also discuss the evolving threats facing the United States today, from geopolitical rivalries to cyber...
2020-09-2320 minPieces of HistoryA Life in the CIAJoining me this week is Professor James Olson. Professor Olson served for over thirty years in the Directorate of Operations of the Central Intelligence Agency, mostly overseas in clandestine operations. He was very kind to discuss his entry into the organisation, the current threats that the United States face, his love of the Russian language, what it takes to become a spy, and the relationship between the CIA, the FBI and the NSA.
2020-09-2300 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066 part 3Alex returns to the podcast for the final installment of our exploration of the Story of 1066. In this episode, we examine the reign of Edward the Confessor and the political tensions that set the stage for one of the most pivotal years in English history. We delve into the rise of Harold Godwinson, his claim to the throne, and the turbulent months leading up to the Norman invasion. Alex also takes us through William the Conqueror’s meticulous preparations, from securing papal support to assembling his formidable invasion force. Finally, we break down the dramatic events of the Battle of...
2020-09-1647 minPieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066 part 3Alex joins me again to conclude the Story of 1066. In this episode, we look at the reign of Edward the Confessor, Harold Godwinson, William the Conqueror's preparations to invade England, and finally the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
2020-09-1600 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066 part 2Alex returns to the podcast as we continue our deep dive into the Story of 1066. In this episode, we step back in time to explore the foundations of early medieval England, beginning with the Kingdom of Wessex and the pivotal role of King Alfred the Great in shaping its future. Alex unpacks the significance of the Witan, the council of nobles and clergy that advised the Anglo-Saxon kings, and explains the Danegeld, the controversial tribute paid to Viking invaders. We also examine the reign of Æthelred the Unready and the challenges faced by the Kingdom of England, before turning o...
2020-09-1342 minPieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066 part 2Alex joins me again to continue the Story of 1066. In this episode we look at The Kingdom of Wessex and King Alfred; Alex explains who The Witan are; The Danegeld; Æthelred and the Kingdom of England as well as the early years of Edward the Confessors reign.
2020-09-1300 min
Pieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066Joining me this week to delve into the dramatic events of 1066 is historian Alex Dymond. Alex is a specialist in medieval England and France, focusing on the period between the 9th and 12th centuries. He is currently pursuing a doctoral thesis at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, examining the estates of the dukes of Normandy and the kings of England from 911 to 1135. With his deep expertise in Norman and Anglo-Saxon history, Alex will help us unravel the political intrigue, shifting alliances, and pivotal battles that shaped one of the most consequential years in English history.Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook...
2020-09-0942 minPieces of HistoryThe Story of 1066Joining me this week to discuss the Story of 1066 is Alex Dymond. Alex specialises in England and France from the 9th to the 12th centuries and is currently completing a doctoral thesis on the estates of the dukes of Normandy and the kings of England, 911 - 1135 at Corpus Christi College, Oxford.
2020-09-0900 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Two - The Gang of Nivelles part twoJoin me as we continue unraveling the mystery of the Gang of Nivelles. In this episode, we pick up in September 1983, following the gang as their reign of terror escalates toward its violent and enigmatic conclusion in November 1985. We’ll examine their chillingly calculated attacks, the patterns that emerged, and the devastating toll they left in their wake. Beyond the crimes themselves, we’ll delve into the lingering questions: Who were these men? What motivated their brutality? Were they mere criminals, or was there something more sinister at play? From theories of paramilitary connections to whispers of deep-state involvement, we’l...
2020-09-0225 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Two - The Gang of Nivelles part twoJoin me as I continue the story of the Gang of Nivelles. This episode picks up in September 1983 and follows the gang to their final act in November 1985. I also look at the possible motives of the group, who they might have been and the conspiracy theories that swirl around the three men.
2020-09-0200 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode One - Gang of NivellesWelcome to the first episode of the second season of Pieces of History. This week, we’re diving into one of Belgium’s most chilling and perplexing mysteries - the case of the Gang of Nivelles. Between 1982 and 1985, this ruthless trio carried out a series of violent attacks and robberies, leaving a trail of fear and unanswered questions in their wake. Their crimes, marked by extreme brutality and a seeming disregard for the stolen goods, remain one of Belgium’s most notorious unsolved cases. Who were these men? What drove their reign of terror? And why, despite decades of invest...
2020-08-1924 minPieces of HistoryEpisode One - Gang of NivellesWelcome to the first episode of the second season of Pieces of History! This week, I will be looking at the Gang of Nivelles, a group of three men who terrorised Belgium from 1982 – 1985 in what became the country’s most notorious unsolved crime spree.
2020-08-1900 min
Pieces of HistoryAbhartach, The Irish VampireWelcome to the thirteenth episode of Pieces of History. I’m joined by award-winning oral historian and storyteller Madeline McCully, creator of derryghosts.com. Madeline has spent years uncovering the eerie folklore of Ireland, and today, she’ll be sharing the chilling tale of Abhartach, the legendary Irish vampire. Long before Dracula, this bloodthirsty figure struck fear into the hearts of those who dared cross his path. We’ll explore the origins of the legend, its historical roots, and how Abhartach may have influenced some of the world’s most famous vampire stories. Prepare for a journey into one of Irela...
2020-08-1224 minPieces of HistoryAbhartach, The Irish VampireI am joined for this bonus episode by Madeline McCully. Madeline is an award-winning oral historian and storyteller and creator of derryghosts.com.
2020-08-1200 min
Pieces of HistoryBonus Episode II - The BorgiaJoining me this week is Katharine Fellows, a DPhil candidate in History at St Peter’s College, Oxford. Katharine will be shedding light on the infamous House of Borgia, with a particular focus on Rodrigo Borgia, who rose to power as Pope Alexander VI. We'll explore his controversial papacy, the political intrigue that surrounded his rule, and the lasting legacy of the Borgia family in Renaissance Europe. From accusations of corruption to their influence on art, politics, and the Church, this episode unravels one of history’s most notorious dynasties.Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.comFacebook: Piec...
2020-08-0231 minPieces of HistoryBonus Episode II - The BorgiaJoining me this week is Katharine Fellows. Katharine is currently a DPhil candidate in History at St Peter’s College, Oxford; she will be discussing the House of Borgia, with particular reference to Rodrigo Borgia who later became Pope Alexander VI.
2020-08-0200 min
Pieces of HistoryBonus Episode - The Swiss GuardWelcome to this special bonus episode of Pieces of History. This week, I'm joined by historian David Alvarez to delve into the origins of the Swiss Guard in the 16th century. We'll explore the political and military landscape that led to their formation, the state of the Papacy during this turbulent period, and how the Swiss Guard evolved from an active military force into the iconic ceremonial unit we recognize today. Along the way, we'll uncover their role in key historical events and the traditions that have kept them at the heart of Vatican security for over 500 years.
2020-07-2234 minPieces of HistoryBonus Episode - The Swiss GuardThis week I am joined by David Alvarez to discuss the foundation of the Swiss Guard in the 16th century, the state of the Papacy during this time and their journey from being an operational military unit to the ceremonial guard that we see today.
2020-07-2200 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Ten - The Gaelic Athletic Association Part TwoWelcome to the tenth episode of Pieces of History. This week, I'm joined once again by Dr. Richard McElligott as we continue our discussion on the Gaelic Athletic Association at the turn of the 20th century, exploring the club and county game of the time and the GAA's role during Ireland's revolutionary era.Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.comFacebook: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypod
2020-07-1542 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Ten - The Gaelic Athletic Association Part TwoJoining me this week is Dr Richard McElligott to continue our talk on the Gaelic Athletic Association at the turn of the 20th century, the club and county game during this period and the GAA's involvement during the revolutionary era in Ireland.
2020-07-1500 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Nine - The Gaelic Athletic AssociationWelcome to episode nine of Pieces of History. This week, I’m joined by Dr. Richard McElligott from Dundalk Institute of Technology to explore the origins and early history of one of Ireland’s most influential cultural institutions - the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).Founded in 1884, the GAA was more than just a sporting organisation; it was a movement that played a crucial role in shaping Irish identity. We’ll discuss the social and political landscape that led to its creation, the key figures behind its foundation, and how it helped revive traditional Irish sports like hurling and Ga...
2020-07-0844 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Nine - The Gaelic Athletic AssociationJoining me to discuss the formation and early history of the Gaelic Athletic Association is Dr Richard McElligott from Dundalk Institute of Technology.
2020-07-0800 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Eight - Objects and Material CultureWelcome to episode eight of Pieces of History. I’m joined by Emma McAlister, a PhD candidate at Queen’s University Belfast, to explore the fascinating world of Objects and Material Culture.Together, we’ll uncover how historical objects shape our understanding of the past, from religious relics to hidden places of worship. We’ll discuss artifacts like the Shrine of St. Patrick’s Hand and the Relic of St. Anthony, examining their significance and the devotion they inspired. We’ll also journey to Amsterdam’s Our Lord in the Attic Museum, a secret church that tells a p...
2020-07-0535 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Eight - Objects and Material CultureI am joined this week by Emma McAlister, a PhD candidate at Queen’s University in Belfast. Emma will be enlightening us on the topic of Objects and Material Culture including, The Shrine of St Patrick’s Hand, the Relic of St Anthony, Amsterdam’s Our Lord in the Attic Museum and the future of museums.
2020-07-0500 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Seven - The Habsburgs and the NetherlandsWelcome to episode seven of Pieces of History. This week, I’m joined by author Heather Darsie as we delve into the fascinating and complex history of the Habsburgs and the Netherlands.We’ll explore the political and religious upheavals that shaped the region, from the impact of the Reformation and Martin Luther’s challenge to the Catholic Church to the rule of Emperor Charles V of Spain and his struggle to maintain control over his vast empire. We’ll also discuss key figures like Margaret of Parma, a pivotal leader in the Spanish Netherlands, and the growing...
2020-07-0130 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Seven - The Habsburgs and the NetherlandsThis week, I am joined by author Heather Darsie to discuss topics such as The Reformation, Martin Luther, Charles V of Spain and Margaret of Parma to name but a few.
2020-07-0100 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Six - King Leopold's CongoWelcome to episode six of Pieces of History. A story of explorers, colonisation, plunder, slavery, and exploitation - few episodes in history are as dark as King Leopold’s rule over the Congo.This week, I’ll be uncovering the brutal history of the Congo Free State, a vast territory personally controlled by Belgium’s King Leopold II in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Under the guise of philanthropy and progress, Leopold’s regime unleashed a system of forced labor, violence, and terror, all in the pursuit of rubber and ivory. Millions of Congolese suffered under hi...
2020-06-1726 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Six - King Leopold's CongoExplorers, colonisation, plunder, slavery, exploitation, and the crumbling of an empire. Join me as I look into the dark history of King Leopold's Congo.
2020-06-1700 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Five - The StBWelcome to episode five of Pieces of History. Spies, kidnappings, informants, wiretapping, blackmail, and even murder - the StB was involved in it all.This week, I’ll be diving into the shadowy world of the Czechoslovak State Security (Státní bezpečnost, or StB) during the Cold War. As the secret police of Communist Czechoslovakia, the StB operated as an extension of Soviet influence, using surveillance, coercion, and fear to maintain control over the population and eliminate dissent.We’ll explore how the StB was formed, the brutal tactics they employed, their network of informa...
2020-06-1030 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Five - The StBSpies, kidnappings, informants, phone tapping, blackmail, murder – The StB did it all. Join me as I delve into the murky history of the Czech Secret Service during the Cold War.
2020-06-1000 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Four - New AmsterdamWelcome to episode four of Pieces of History. This week, I’ll be exploring the origins of New Amsterdam and how it evolved into one of the most vital trading hubs of the New World.To understand its beginnings, we’ll first look at the Dutch Empire of the 16th century, a time of rapid expansion and maritime dominance. We’ll trace the arrival of the Dutch to America in the early 17th century, the founding of New Amsterdam at the southern tip of Manhattan, and the key players. From its role as a center of com...
2020-06-0320 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Four - New AmsterdamWelcome to episode four of Pieces of History. This week, I look at the origins of New Amsterdam and how it grew and developed into one of the most important trading areas of the New World.
2020-06-0300 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Three - The 'Ndrangheta: Italy's Third MafiaWelcome to episode three of Pieces of History. This week, I’ll be diving into the history of one of the most powerful and secretive criminal organisations in the world - the ‘Ndrangheta.We’ll start by exploring the origins of the Italian Mafia, the social and economic conditions that gave rise to organised crime in southern Italy, and how the ‘Ndrangheta emerged in the rugged landscapes of Calabria. From their early days as a loose network of rural outlaws in the 19th century to their expansion into international crime syndicates in the 20th century, the ‘Ndrangheta’s rise to po...
2020-05-2729 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Three - The 'Ndrangheta: Italy's Third MafiaWelcome to episode three of Pieces of History. This week, I will be looking at one of the most powerful and secretive criminal organisations in the world.
2020-05-2700 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode Two - The Rise of DubaiWelcome to the second episode of Pieces of History. This week, I’ll be exploring the remarkable rise of Dubai - from its early days as a small fishing and pearl-diving village along the Persian Gulf to its transformation into one of the largest and most populous cities in the United Arab Emirates.We’ll delve into its early history, the arrival of Islam in the region, and how Dubai evolved under various influences, including the British presence in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Finally, we’ll examine the oil boom of the mid-20th century and ho...
2020-05-2030 minPieces of HistoryEpisode Two - The Rise of DubaiWelcome to the second episode of Pieces of History. This week, I will be looking at the Rise of Dubai from humble beginnings as a small fishing village on the Persian Gulf to one of the largest and most populous cities in the United Arab Emirates.
2020-05-2000 min
Pieces of HistoryEpisode One - The Black DeathWelcome to the first episode of Pieces of History. In this episode, I’ll be exploring one of the most devastating events in history - the Black Death. We’ll take a look at what Europe was like in the 14th century, where the plague began, and the profound impact it had on society. Let’s dive into this dark but fascinating chapter of the past.Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.comFacebook: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypod
2020-05-1327 minPieces of HistoryEpisode One - The Black DeathWelcome to the first episode of Pieces of History. This week I will be looking at the Black Death which ravaged the medieval world during the 14th century.
2020-05-1300 min
Pieces of HistoryTrailerHello and welcome to Pieces of History. Join me as I delve into some renowned and lesser-known events throughout history. To listen to Pieces of History, simply subscribe from iTunes and Spotify and you can also get involved in the show by leaving comments and suggestions on the Twitter and Instagram pages at Pieces of History.Episode One coming soon.
2020-05-0301 minPieces of HistoryTrailerHello and welcome to Pieces of History. Join me as I delve into some renowned and lesser-known events throughout history.
To listen to Pieces of History, simply subscribe from iTunes and Spotify and you can also get involved in the show by leaving comments and suggestions on the Twitter and Instagram pages at Pieces of History.
Episode One coming soon.
2020-05-0300 min