Shows
Let's Hear Some HistorySecrets of the Spider KingStep into the world of Louis XI of France, the cunning monarch known as the Spider King. In four dramatized scenes based on real events, we follow his cold negotiations, secret plots, and final whispered lessons. This episode reveals how one quiet, calculating king reshaped France—not with swords, but with strategy.2025-05-0612 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryDigging Deep: America’s Play for Ukraine’s MineralsUS Companies Eyeing Ukraine's Rare Earth Mineral Opportunities
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US Companies Eyeing Ukraine's Rare Earth Mineral Opportunities
Date: February 24, 2025
This briefing outlines the potential for U.S. companies to exploit Ukraine's significant deposits of rare earth minerals, particularly lithium, titanium, and other critical minerals. Several U.S.-based companies possess the expertise and capacity for such ventures, aligning with the strategic push to reduce reliance on China for these vital resources. However, significant hurdles exist, including outdated geological data, war-related damage, security risks, and the need for substantial investment. While no deals have been publicly finalized...2025-02-2607 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryAndrew Jackson and the Expansion of Executive PowerAndrew Jackson's presidency (1829-1837) significantly increased executive power. This expansion was fueled by Jackson's populist appeal and his portrayal of himself as a champion of the common person. He aggressively used the presidential veto to shape policy, exemplified by his opposition to the Second Bank. The Nullification Crisis demonstrated his commitment to federal authority. The Indian Removal Act further illustrates his use of executive power to achieve policy goals, while the spoils system consolidated his influence. Jackson's actions set a precedent for a stronger executive branch.2025-02-0912 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryChina's Nuclear Fusion Surge: Implications for Global Power and Western DominanceThis briefing analyzes recent developments in China's nuclear fusion program, highlighting its potential to reshape the global energy landscape and challenge the West's technological dominance. The podcast examines China's rapid progress in fusion research, its strategic approach, and the potential consequences of its success for the global balance of power. It also contrasts this with western approaches and funding, raising concerns about the risk of the west losing its edge in the race to harness fusion power.2025-02-0312 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryToba Volcano: When Humans Nearly VanishedSmithsonian Magazine article and excerpt from Donald Prothero's book, When Humans Nearly Vanished, explore the catastrophic eruption of Mount Toba 74,000 years ago. The eruption, the largest volcanic event in the past 28 million years, is discussed in detail, including its devastating immediate effects and long-term consequences for the global climate and human evolution.2025-01-2817 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryArsenal-1: Anduril's Ohio Manufacturing FacilityAnduril, a defense contractor, is constructing a massive, $1 billion weapons manufacturing facility called Arsenal-1 near Rickenbacker International Airport in Ohio. This 5-million-square-foot facility, situated on 500 acres, will produce thousands of military systems annually, including drones and missiles.2025-01-1906 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryChina's Manufacturing Dominance and Global Economic ImbalanceChina's massive trade surplus, nearing $1 trillion in 2024, highlights its growing dominance in global manufacturing, reaching approximately 27% and projected to increase to 45% by 2030. This dominance challenges the U.S. and its allies, who have implemented tariffs and subsidies to counter China's influence but have seen limited success.2025-01-1617 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryEmpire of Lead: How Poison Fueled Roman DeclineExplore how lead pollution from Roman silver mining, pipes, and pottery may have caused cognitive decline, contributing to the Empire's downfall.2025-01-1306 min
Let's Hear Some HistorySolar Storms, EMPs, and Societal VulnerabilityThis podcast analyzes the potential threats posed by both naturally occurring solar events (like Carrington-level storms) and man-made electromagnetic pulse (EMP) weapons. The analysis reveals the vulnerability of modern infrastructure to these events, highlighting the potential for widespread disruption, and emphasizing the need for preparedness and mitigation efforts2025-01-1213 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryChinese Cyber Operations Targeting Guam's Critical InfrastructureThe Chinese hacking campaign targeting Guam is a significant escalation in cyber warfare tactics and underscores the vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure that could be exploited during potential conflicts. The ongoing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning Taiwan, make securing these vital systems increasingly crucial for maintaining U.S. military readiness and strategic advantage. A robust and proactive defense posture is necessary to counter these evolving threats.2025-01-0404 min
Let's Hear Some HistorySilver Tides: How the Spanish Empire and China Shaped Global TradeThe silver trade between the Spanish Empire and China, facilitated by the Manila Galleon route from the 16th to the 19th centuries, was a pivotal moment in global economic history. This trade created a truly global network, linking the Americas, Europe, and Asia, driven by China's insatiable demand for silver and the abundant silver mines of Spanish America.2025-01-0205 min
Let's Hear Some HistorySeas of Strength: Reviving America’s Maritime PowerIn Seas of Strength, we explore the critical connection between naval supremacy and commercial maritime power throughout history. Join us as we dive into America's maritime roots, from the founding of the U.S. Navy to protect merchant sailors, to the rise and fall of its cargo fleet. With rising global tensions and the resurgence of strategic competition, we examine what it will take to revive America's maritime sector and why it matters for national security, economic resilience, and global influence.2024-12-3016 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Evolving Landscape of Military Technology and ProcurementChallenging the Old Guard:
Anduril's Manifesto: Anduril, a tech firm founded by Palmer Luckey, has released a "mission document" titled “Rebooting the Arsenal of Democracy,” that criticizes traditional defense contractors like Lockheed Martin. The document suggests that these established companies are no longer capable of producing cutting-edge technology. Based on Forbes article: Will Military Tech Firms Unseat Lockheed Martin?2024-12-2726 min
Morning Mix with Alan Corcoran'Home for Christmas' Concert at St. Iberius Church2024-12-1904 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryTaiwan: The Isle at the Edge of EmpiresHere's the tale of Taiwan reimagined in the epic, Homeric style, complete with invocations, grand imagery, and heroic gravitas2024-12-0603 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryFrancisco de Orellana’s Epic Voyage to the Amazon
In the early 16th century, tales of unimaginable wealth and vast, uncharted territories captivated the European imagination. Among the explorers driven by these legends was Francisco de Orellana, a Spanish conquistador known for his unyielding spirit and hunger for discovery. Born in Trujillo, Spain, in 1511, Orellana sought fame and fortune in the New World, joining Francisco Pizarro’s conquest of the Inca Empire in Peru. However, the lure of the unknown beckoned him further east, into the heart of the mysterious and formidable Amazon jungle.
2024-08-1204 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Noche Triste or Night of SorrowsIn the early 16th century, the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire unfolded like a gripping epic of ambition, betrayal, and survival. At the heart of this dramatic saga lies the Noche Triste, or "Night of Sorrows," a pivotal moment in the clash between the Spanish conquistadors and the mighty Aztec civilization.2024-05-2006 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryDictators & Drama: Unlocking Shakespeare's Timeless Warning to Modern Politics
Today, we dive into how Shakespeare's fascination with tyranny, deeply rooted in the tumultuous historical and political landscape of his era, continues to resonate. Living through the reign of Elizabeth I and the transition to the Stuart dynasty, Shakespeare drew upon a mix of classical, medieval, and contemporary influences to craft intricate narratives around tyrannical figures and their eventual downfalls. Moving beyond the past, Stephen Greenblatt’s analysis in "Tyrant: Shakespeare on Politics" sheds light on how these centuries-old texts reflect on our current political scene, suggesting that Shakespeare’s understanding of tyranny—the psychology behind it, its implications, and ho...2024-04-2205 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe French Spanish Conflict in 16th Century Florida
In the 16th century, the shores of what is now known as Florida became the unlikely stage for a brutal clash between two European powers. The French and Spanish empires, driven by the fervor of religious conviction and the hunger for new territories, collided in a series of events that would culminate in a harrowing massacre.
2024-02-2904 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe French-Spanish Conflict in 16th Century FloridaIn the 16th century, the shores of what is now known as Florida became the unlikely stage for a brutal clash between two European powers. The French and Spanish empires, driven by the fervor of religious conviction and the hunger for new territories, collided in a series of events that would culminate in a harrowing massacre.2024-02-2804 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryWilliam the Silent: The First Victim of Political Assassination by FirearmIn the 16th century, Europe was a turbulent place, where religious conflicts and political struggles were common. Among the many leaders who emerged in this period, one stands out for his courage, his vision, and his tragic fate. His name was William of Orange, also known as William the Silent, the Stadholder of the Netherlands. He was the first head of state to be assassinated by a handgun, an event that changed the course of history and shaped the destiny of a nation.2024-02-1403 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryWilliam the Silent: The First Victim of Political Assassination by FirearmIn the 16th century, Europe was a turbulent place, where religious conflicts and political struggles were common. Among the many leaders who emerged in this period, one stands out for his courage, his vision, and his tragic fate. His name was William of Orange, also known as William the Silent, the Stadholder of the Netherlands.2024-02-1004 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryHeart of Darkness, Heart of War: A Descent into Madness in Apocalypse NowFrancis Ford Coppola's Apocalypse Now (1979) is more than just a Vietnam War film; it's a cinematic odyssey into the abyss of human nature, mirroring the descent into madness of both war and its warriors.2024-01-3102 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryFading Stars and Ancient GodsIn Neil Gaiman's enthralling "American Gods," ancient deities fight an uphill battle for relevance in a nation enamored with shiny new gods of technology and convenience. But across the glitzy boulevard of Hollywood, a curious echo emerges. Where forgotten gods languish in shadowed motel rooms, yearning for worshippers and offerings, we find washed-up actors, their once-dazzling stardust dimming under the unforgiving spotlight of a fickle audience. The parallels, though veiled in the glimmer of sequined dresses and paparazzi flashes, run deeper than a shared taste for ambrosia and adoration.2024-01-0203 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryWhispers from the Infinite: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Von Neumann Alien Probes TheoryIn the vast expanse of the cosmos, where the mysteries of the universe unfold, a captivating theory stretches the boundaries of our imagination—the Von Neumann Alien Probes theory. Envision a scenario where advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, beyond our comprehension, deploy self-replicating probes to explore the cosmos. This concept, originating from the brilliant mind of physicist and mathematician John von Neumann, is as captivating as it is thought-provoking.
2023-12-0304 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryKagnew Station: A Silent Sentinel in Asmara, Eritrea, Shaping the Course of Cold War HistoryKagnew Station, a U.S. Army installation situated in Asmara, Eritrea, stood as one of the most crucial listening posts for the National Security Agency (NSA) during the turbulent era of the Cold War. This strategic outpost played a pivotal role in intercepting communications from the Soviet Union and other communist countries, providing invaluable intelligence that shaped the course of international events.
2023-11-2704 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Roar That Shook the World: The Krakatoa Eruption of 1883Journey back in time to 1883, when the volcanic island of Krakatoa erupted with cataclysmic force, unleashing a series of explosions that shattered the sky and sent shockwaves around the globe.2023-11-2603 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryAdvanced Packaging: The New Frontier in the U.S.-China Semiconductor RaceChina, recognizing the potential of advanced packaging, is capitalizing on this area, capturing global market share and making strides in manufacturing high-end chips.
2023-11-2502 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryLieutenant Carter Harman, and the first recorded use of a helicopter behind enemy linesThe first recorded use of a helicopter during a rescue operation took place on April 29, 1944, during World War II. The rescue mission occurred on the eastern coast of Burma, (now Myanmar), in the midst of the conflict between Allied forces and the Japanese army.2023-08-0503 min
Let's Hear Some HistorySoviet Listening Post Unveiled in CubaThe large Soviet listening post in Cuba was known as the Lourdes SIGINT station. It was located near Havana, Cuba, and was the largest facility of its kind operated by Soviet and later Russian foreign intelligence services outside of Russia. Located less than 150 km (93 mi) from Key West, the facility covered 73 km2 (28 sq mi).2023-07-2003 minLet's Hear Some HistoryThe story of John Harrison's marine chronometer
In the 18th century, determining longitude while sailing across the open ocean was a significant challenge. Latitude, the distance north or south of the equator, could be relatively easily measured using the position of the stars. However, calculating longitude, the distance east or west of a reference point, was much more complex. It required knowing the precise time at a known location and comparing it to the local time at the ship's current location.The British government offered a substantial reward, known as the Longitude Prize, for anyone who could devise a reliable method for determining longitude at...2023-07-0804 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryPrince Henry the Navigator and the Age of ExplorationDuring the Age of Exploration, Portugal played a significant role in leading European exploration and establishing maritime trade routes. Several historical circumstances contributed to Portugal's lead during this period. Our story begins with Prince Henry the Navigator, a visionary Portuguese prince of the 15th century.
2023-06-1203 min
Let's Hear Some HistorySpanish commander Pedro Tello de Guzmán recounts the 1595 Battle of San Juan from the Spanish perspective..Welcome to this podcast episode where we will delve into one of the most important battles in Spanish history, the Battle of San Juan against the notorious English pirate Francis Drake in 1595. This was a pivotal moment for the Spanish Empire, as it marked a successful defense against a formidable enemy who had previously defeated the Spanish Armada.
At the center of this battle was the Spanish commander Pedro Tello de Guzmán, whose tactical brilliance and leadership skills played a crucial role in the Spanish victory. His remarkable military career and his role in this historic b...2023-04-0602 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryFrancis Drake's Last Stand: The Battle Of San Juan (1595)Imagine you are living in the 16th century, when Spain and England are locked in a fierce war for global domination. You are a resident of San Juan, Puerto Rico, a strategic island that guards the entrance to the Caribbean Sea and the riches of the Spanish Empire. You have heard of the exploits of Sir Francis Drake, the most feared and famous English privateer who has raided and plundered many Spanish colonies and ships. You have also heard of his defeat at Lisbon in 1589, when he failed to capture the Portuguese capital from Spain. You wonder if he...2023-04-0603 min
The New Century MultiversePanther Soul: Chapter 33 – GoodbyesThe adventurers prepare to leave Iberius behind, and journey on to a new way of life. This has all of them reflective and conflicted regarding the parting of ways.
Buy the Paperback on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08WZGRYB2/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i11
Support this project on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/alexandershaw
· Chief Grex performed by Greg Downing
· Shaman Tobius performed by Toby Skeels-Jungius
· Grampaw Turandel performed by Akshdeep Singh Vora
· Beatrix performed by Laureta Sela
· Lia perfo...2023-03-2321 min
The New Century MultiversePanther Soul: Chapter 32 – Running With PurposeKolo ascends, and the cats, with what they have found, return to Iberius, the stolen city of the lynxes.
· Stardancer performed by Theo Leigh
· Kolo Nash performed by Alex Shaw
· Sir Dashington performed by James Batchelor
Make your decision by Dan Phillipson of Shockwave Sound
Panther Soul Theme; Zaad, composed and performed by Jason Bradley Livesay of Shockwave Sound
Arabian Nightfall and Istanbul by Ald
Spirit of the Girl, Naraina, Whimsy Groove and Lost Frontier composed and performed by Kevin MacLeod of Incompetech.com
I...2023-03-1616 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryODYSSEUS JOURNEY IN THE ODYSSEY, A SUMMARYThe Odyssey is an epic poem traditionally attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer. It tells the story of Odysseus, king of Ithaca, who wanders for 10 years trying to get home after the Trojan War. On his journey home, he faces many challenges and obstacles including storms at sea and encounters with mythical creatures. The poem also focuses on his son Telemachus who left home in search of his long-lost father and on Odysseus’ wife Penelope who struggles to maintain their authority during his prolonged absence.2023-03-1503 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryJason And The Argonauts summary and analysis, A Greek Hero Myth"Jason and the Argonauts" is a Greek mythological tale that follows the story of Jason, a young hero, on his quest to retrieve the Golden Fleece. Jason is tasked with this mission by his uncle, King Pelias, who seeks to get rid of him. Jason embarks on a dangerous journey, along with a crew of skilled and brave warriors, known as the Argonauts. During their journey, the Argonauts face numerous challenges and obstacles, including the clashing rocks, the harpies, the bronze giant Talos, and the sorceress Medea. With the help of Medea's magical powers, Jason is able to overcome t...2023-03-0507 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Legend of King Memnon: The Warrior King of EthiopiaKing Memnon of Ethiopia was a legendary figure who played a key role in the Trojan War according to Greek mythology. He was said to be the son of the god of dawn, Eos, and a mortal king, and was known for his bravery and martial prowess. During the Trojan War, King Memnon fought on the side of the Trojans, leading a large army of Ethiopian soldiers into battle against the Greeks. He was considered one of the greatest warriors of the time, and his legendary exploits on the battlefield have been celebrated in epic poems and works of...2023-03-0303 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe warrior Achilles in his own words.Achilles examines his own role during the Trojan War as one of the great heroes of Greek mythology.
2023-03-0303 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Frumentarii: Rome's Secret AgentsEspionage, the practice of gathering information through covert means, was a common tactic used by the Roman military. The Roman legions and armies of occupation would often use informers and spies, but not in a formal or organized manner. This was particularly true in the city of Rome, which was known for its whispers and endless conspiracies. One notable group of spies in ancient Rome was the frumentarii, who were possibly established by Emperor Domitian.2023-01-2304 minLet's Hear Some HistoryAthenian military expedition to Sicily, 415–413 BC during the Peloponnesian WarThe Athenian fleet that set out to attack Syracuse in 415 BCE was a large and powerful force. It consisted of around 134 triremes, which were the primary warships of the time. These ships were powered by both sail and oars, and were equipped with bronze rams on the front for ramming and sinking enemy ships. The fleet also included smaller support ships and transport vessels for troops and supplies. The fleet was commanded by a group of generals, with Alcibiades, Nicias and Lamachus being the most prominent among them. The expedition was intended to be a major offensive against the...2023-01-1711 minLet's Hear Some HistoryThe Massacre of The Italians by King Mithridates of Pontus in 88 BCMithridates' Massacre of the Italians in 88 BC was a rebellion and large massacre of Romans by King Mithridates of Pontus in Anatolia, which came to be known as the "Asiatic Vespers", and would prove to be one of the most brutal and costly conflicts in Roman history. It would be years before peace was restored, and many lives would be lost on both sides. But in the end, Rome's power would be proven once more, and the rebellion would be quashed. It was a tragic and sobering reminder of the cost of empire.2023-01-1309 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryViriathus: Lusitanian leader and rebel Against RomeThe Lusitanian War was a conflict that took place in the early Roman Republic, between the Roman Republic and the Lusitanians (modern -day Portuguese), a group of Celtic peoples who inhabited what is now modern-day Portugal and parts of Spain. The war is also known as the Pyrinos Polemos, which means "the Fiery War" in Greek.
The Lusitanians were a fiercely independent people who resisted Roman expansion into their territory. They were led by a military leader named Viriathus, who was able to use guerrilla tactics to successfully resist the Romans for several decades. The Lusitanian War was a...2023-01-0312 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Epic of GilgameshThe Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient Mesopotamian poem that tells the story of Gilgamesh, the king of the city of Uruk. The poem is considered one of the oldest surviving works of literature in the world, and it has had a significant influence on Western literature and culture.2022-12-2904 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryThe Italian Social Wars or the Wars for CitizenshipThe Social Wars were a series of conflicts in ancient Rome that took place from 91 to 88 BC. They were fought between the Roman Republic and several of its allied Italic cities, who were seeking greater political and economic rights within the Roman state.2022-12-2304 minLet's Hear Some HistoryMarius, Sulla and the normalization of political violenceMarius and Sulla were both ambitious and skilled military leaders who had gained significant power and influence in Rome. Marius was a popular general who had successfully led Roman armies against a number of threats, including invasions by the barbarian Cimbri and Teutones. Sulla, on the other hand, was a more controversial figure who was known for his ruthless tactics and his willingness to bend the rules to achieve his goals.2022-12-2308 minLet's Hear Some HistoryGaius Gracchus tries to reform the RepublicThe sun was just beginning to rise over the city of Rome as Gaius Gracchus made his way through the crowded streets. It was a typical morning in the bustling metropolis, with merchants setting up their stalls, people rushing to work, and the constant hum of activity all around. But Gaius was not like most of the people he passed. He was a man on a mission.2022-12-2108 min
Let's Hear Some HistoryWho was Tiberius Gracchus?The year was 168 BC, and Rome was at the height of its power. The Republic was expanding its territory and influence, and the city was bustling with activity. In the heart of Rome, in the wealthy and influential neighborhood of the Palatine Hill, a child was born. His name was Tiberius Gracchus, and he was destined to rock the Roman world.2022-12-2106 min
Racontour Archive 2008 - 20196. TNW St. IberiusAn ancient crucifix was found in the Lady's Island lake in the vicinity of the church of St. Iberius (also known as St Ibar's) in the summer of 1887. When first discovered, a small portion of the left arm was missing. Acting on the instructions of the Parish Priest, the late Venerable Archdeacon Roche, the finder - a boy named Cogley - renewed the search and, strange to relate, succeeded in finding the missing part which was subsequently joined to the figure.
One further point of note is an historic relic of the area. The wording from the Our...2017-03-2601 min