Shows
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Political Assassinations - both By and AgainstUkraine and Ukrainians have used political assassinations to push their agenda into the spotlight or protest grievances against Ukrainians. Ukrainians have also been targeted by some of the Soviet Union's best assassins and for glaringly obvious reasons. So, who were these high-profile victims and assassins? And how were the assassinations planned and carried out? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-06-1541 min
Wandering the EdgeRussia's Use of Soft Power - an Interview with Dr. Lada L. RoslyckyWhat is "soft power" and how did/does Russia use it not only in Ukraine but among other so-called "Western" countries? This question along with others is talked about in this interview with Dr. Lada L. Roslycky, whom predicted Russia using their Black Sea Fleet to annex the Crimea. She is now the founding managing partner of Black Trident, a defense and security consulting group based in Kyiv. Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!Black Trident: https://www.theblacktrident.com/Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please...2025-06-011h 05
Wandering the EdgeMykhailo Hrushevsky - Ukraine's First Historian-PresidentWhy is Mykhailo Hrushevsky so venerated among Ukrainian historians? And why are his histories so important to Ukrainian historiography? And how this seemingly quiet man become the president of Ukraine in 1918? And how did his life change after this? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge. Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-05-1536 min
Wandering the EdgeOperation "Vistula" (Akcja „Wisła”) - the 1947 Ukrainian ResettlementIn 1947, the Polish communist state internally displaced the rest of their 150,000 Ukrainian minority. They spattered them among the now empty German territories they gained when Stalin moved Poland's borders west. Why did this happen? And how was the operation conducted? And was it a success? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-05-0138 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's First IndependenceWhat was the good, the bad and the ugly about Ukraine's first independence in 1918? How did it begin and why did it fail? And who was responsible for it? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-04-1532 min
Wandering the EdgeThe UPA 4Who were the UPA 4? The 4 women of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army who received 25 years imprisonment for their roles in the Ukrainian underground? How did each women even end up in the UPA? What were their roles and what did they sacrifice for their beliefs? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-04-0147 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Two Winter CampaignsDuring Ukraine's first independence drive, the Ukrainian army attempted to break out through the Monarchist and Bolshevik fronts, these two attempts were known as the First and Second Winter Campaigns. Where they successful? Who commanded them? And why are they important to Ukrainian military history? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-03-1439 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Primary Source - The Primary ChronicleUkraine's primary source on our Medieval history is the Primary Chronicle. But is it a primary source and what is it exactly? Who wrote it? How did it become so important? And how has it evolved throughout the centuries to use as a political tool? Find out more in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!Facebook & Instagram: WanderedgeukraineFor more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-03-0127 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Volodymyr the GreatWhy was Volodymyr the Great - great? How did a legalized bastard become the leader of Europe's largest kingdom at that time? And how did he choose Orthodox Christianity as his new religion to baptize this empire? And why is his influence so great in this modern era? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-02-1532 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Prosvita Enlightenment SocietyWhat was the Prosvita (Enlightenment) Society that was founded in Lviv in 1868? Why was it the single most important Ukrainian society to basically ever exist? And what role did it play in Ukraine's fight for independence, self-sufficiency and cultural history? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2025-02-0137 min
Wandering the EdgeThe 1919 Paris Peace Talks - A Disappointment to UkraineThe 1919 Paris Peace talks in Versailles was supposed to be end of war in Europe. But in just 20 years, a world war would begin anew - one of the reasons for which was the outcomes of the Peace Talks. But what was the affect of this peace for Ukraine and Ukrainians? And is there a warning in ignoring the wants and needs of a large segment of the European population to appease bigger nations? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2024-12-0138 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Stolen Treasures and HistoryUkraine's history has not only been appropriated by Russia for centuries, but its treasures has also been stolen or destroyed by imperial Russia, Soviet Russia and now the Russian Federation. What is missing from Ukraine's cultural treasures, what has Russia and other countries stolen from our archives and what is Russian consciously destroying during this current Russo-Ukrainian war? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2024-11-1542 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Vodka History - an Interview with Zirkova's Katherine VellingaWhat's the history of vodka and vodka distilling? What is so unique to Ukrainian vodka? And what makes it taste so good? And how did this current Russian invasion affect Ukraine's vodka distilleries? And what can we do to support Ukraine reestablish itself as the world best and great vodka distillers? Find out in this episode of an interview with Zirkova Vodka's CEO Katherine Vellinga!
Zirkova's website: https://www.zirkova.com/
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2024-11-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Great Yaroslav the WiseUkraine voted him the most influential Ukrainian in 2008 but why was Yaroslav named "the Wise"? How much of it was his legal reform and how much of it was his military and diplomatic feats that have earned him his moniker? Find out about this great Mediaeval Kyivan Rus King in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net 2024-10-1538 min
Wandering the EdgeThe 3 Hungers of UkraineUkraine has suffered from 3 major famines in the 20th century: 1921-1923, the Holodomor of 1932-1933 and the post-war famine of 1946-1947. And while the first and last did have environmental factors that contributed to the famine, it was the policies of the Bolsheviks and Soviets that led to the death of millions of people, who could have lived if it weren't for their ruthless and stupid agricultural policies. Find out about how did these famines start, how many were affected and how it effected the Ukrainians in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge.
Facebook & Instagram: Wanderedgeukraine2024-10-0146 min
Wandering the EdgeIvan Kotliarevsky - the First Modern Ukrainian WriterIvan Kotliarevsky (1769-1838) was the first modern Ukrainian writer who wrote in actual Ukrainian. His parody "Eneida" followed some rowdy Ukrainian Cossacks on their journey to/from Troy. His other works included the great play - "Natalka Poltavka", which was the last play performed at the Kyiv Opera Theatre before the 2022 invasion. Kotliarevsky was also a military veteran and even mobilized his fellow Ukrainians against Napoleon in 1812! How did he influence Ukrainian literary history? Why was he so cool and such a great party guest? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
Facebook & Instagram: Wanderedgeukraine2024-09-1536 min
Wandering the EdgeKholodny Yar - a Rebellious Regional RepublicThe Kholodny Yar area of Ukraine is a beautiful ancient forest filled with whimsy - but also a long history of rebellion and insurrection. From the 1700s with the Haidamak brigands to the early 20th century insurgents who first used the term "Glory to Ukraine" - this was the region of folk heroes, successful insurgent armies and severe repercussions. Find out more about this region and its link to the modern Ukrainian Armed Forces in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-09-0137 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Great Hetman of Ukraine - Bohdan Khmelnytsky Part 2Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytsky was a powerful figure in Ukrainian history and an influence in European politics in the second half of the 1600's. His most controversial act was signing an agreement with the Russian Tsar, the consequences of which have reverberated into modern Ukraine. His legacy is also shadowed by Cossack actions against the Jews and the Catholics. How has Khmelnytsky been remembered throughout the centuries and what has been his impact and influence on Ukrainian history? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!
Photo Credit: Eugene Chystiakov
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2024-07-1536 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Great Hetman of Ukraine - Bohdan Khmelnytsky Part 1Bohdan Khmelnytsky (1595-1657) could have been a minor Cossack noble and a small footnote in Ukrainian history until some soap opera level drama shook his life and at the age of 50 he led an uprising that would shake the entire Eastern European political and military landscape. What were his motivations and why did the other Cossacks follow his lead (and elect him Hetman)? And what were the reactions from those kingdoms and empires around the Cossacks? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please...2024-07-0135 min
Wandering the EdgeA Very Ukrainian Grieving Process - an Interview with Julian HaydaIn this interview with journalist and activist Julian Hayda, we discuss the Ukrainian funerary customs and traditions - those Ukrainians observe in Ukraine and abroad. We talk about how these customs evolved, what exactly do Ukrainians do during a funeral and the importance of certain songs and customs to soothe our grief.
Photo Credit: ARMYINFORM
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-06-151h 07
Wandering the EdgeSviatoslav - the "Glorious Slav" King?Sviatoslav was the son of a warrior king and a smart queen who loved a good fight (or war) but not so much the actual ruling bit of being a ruler. He won great battles in the east and lost great battles in the west. Was the first "Slav" king that great? And why is his image now so complicated? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-06-0130 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Revolution of DignityThe Revolution of Dignity began as the pro-EU Euromaidan protest in November 2013. It then transformed into a revolution that wanted to change Ukraine itself. It turned violent when the government that was elected on behalf of the people, turned on the people. This was also the beginning of this current Ukrainian-Russian war, with 2022 only being the full scale invasion. Why did this Revolution happen? Why did the government fire on its own citizens? And why is it important? Find out in this episode!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.n...2024-05-1543 min
Wandering the EdgeThe not so socialist Ukrainian writer Ivan FrankoIvan Franko (1856-1916) is considered the third in Ukraine's literary pantheon. He was a poet, writer, social and literary critic, journalist, translator, economist, political activist, doctor of philosophy, ethnographer and staunch Ukrainian independentist. His work has been used by the Soviets to completely alter his historical influence but his ideas on socialism were never so simple. This episode looks into his life and times and examines his works and their influence - which are felt even today.
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2024-05-0135 min
Wandering the EdgeA Ukrainian's Gulag UprisingThousands of Ukrainians were imprisoned in the GULAG system of the Soviet Union. And many of them were involved in the numerous GULAG uprisings that sprang up after Stalin's death in 1953. This episode will look at 3 of them in particular: the Norilsk and Vorkuta Uprisings of 1953 and the Kengir Uprising of 1954. Why did the uprisings occur and how important where the Ukrainians in organizing and spreading unrest in the Soviet Union's concentration camp system? Find out in this episode!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-04-1550 min
Wandering the EdgeA Shukhevych Family TreeHow much do you know about your family tree? Well, there are some Ukrainian families that can pinpoint where and from whom they came from. That is the case with the Shukhevych Family. This episode will look into the history of this famous family which includes a lot of priests, some legal scholars, musicians, political-cultural leaders and legendary and infamous military commanders, including General Roman Shukhevych.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-04-0156 min
Wandering the EdgeA History of the Ukrainian PeasantryUkraine is known as Europe's breadbasket - primarily because of the type of soil that naturally occurs there. This episode looks at the history of the Ukrainian peasantry - a social class that is so inherently tied to the land it was seen as a dangerous element by none other than the dictator Josef Stalin. How important was the peasantry to Ukrainian history? And how did they react to foreign intervention? How did Ukrainian culture evolve from the earth they toiled? Find out in this episode!
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For more episodes, sources and extras...2024-03-1535 min
Wandering the Edge1991 - Ukraine's 2nd IndependenceUkraine declared independence from the USSR on 24 August 1991. But it took years of inter-Soviet disfunction and terror to finally thrust independence upon numerous countries. The fall of the Soviet Union also didn't happen in one day, it took years and began with the election of Gorbachev in 1985 and pushed forward by thousands of pro-independence activists. This episode will look at how independence came not only to Ukraine, but to the other former Soviet republics in the early 1990s.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2024-03-0134 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Thermopylae - The Battle of KrutyThe January 29-30, 1918 Batty of Kruty pitted young Ukrainian soldiers against a larger attacking Red Army. Ukraine only just declared independence and the youth of this nation sacrificed their lives to keep their government alive. Their sacrifice was immortalized, commemorated year after year in the Diaspora and silenced in the Soviet Union. Almost 100 years later, another Battle of Kruty occurred but with very different outcomes. In this episode, we explore how the battle occurred and why it became important in Ukrainian commemoration and national consciousness.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please...2024-02-1534 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Great Hetman - Petro Konashevych-SahaidachnyWho was Petro Sahaidachny and why is he considered, by some, to be Ukraine's greatest Hetman? Well, he was a 17th century Ukrainian political and military leader who commanded his Cossacks at sea using their unique "chaika" boats and led them to almost sack Moscow. He was a diplomat just as much as he was a scholar, but he was always an impressive political figure who led his men on land and sea. Find out more about this great Hetman of Ukraine on this latest episode!
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For more episodes, sources and extras...2024-02-0149 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Smarty Pants Scientists - Part TwoThe second part of episodes dedicated to sciency stuff! Who were some of the most influential Ukrainian scientists in the twentieth century? Well, some liked rocks, others like kidneys and hearts while still others were really into welding stuff. But one was a mysterious man, without whom, NASA wouldn't have gotten to the moon (even though he died during the Second World War and had absolutely no contacts with any Americans). We'll discuss them all and you get to tell me, which one was the coolest!
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For more episodes, sources and extras...2023-12-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Smarty Pants Scientists - Part 1Ukrainians are pretty smart - so smart we have scientists! The first world-renown scientist is Yuriy Drohobych - the once rector of the University of Bologna in the 15th century who was a philosopher, astronomer and medical doctor for the king of Poland! We also have two evolutionists - Nicholas Miklouho-Maclay (anthropologist and biologist who was as important in Australia) and Elie Metchnikoff (Nobel Prize winner in immunology). The inventor of Xrays - Ivan Puluj, and an engineer who invented the first electric tram - Fyodor Pirotsky, are also in the mix in this episode all about pre-Soviet Ukrainian...2023-11-1541 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Current Russo-Ukrainian War - an Interview with a VeteranIn this episode, we talk to Nazar Volynets, a veteran of the 24th Assault Battalion ("Aidar") of the Ukrainian Armed Forces who was a reconnaissance platoon commander in 2014-2015. We discuss how he ended up in Ukraine in 2013, why he joined the war, what he saw on the front, the importance of the Battle of Ilovaisk and Debaltseve and why supporting Ukraine today is so important.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2023-11-011h 06
Wandering the EdgeThe Feast Day of the Intercession of the Theotokos - or Sviato PokrovyWhat is the feast day of the Intercession of the Theotokos? How did a military defeat in far off Constantinople result in a religious feast day in Ukraine? And how did it evolve and influence Ukrainian religious celebrations and even statehood from medieval Kyivan-Rus to the Cossacks to the Second World War and present day? Find out in this latest episode of Wandering the Edge!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2023-10-1529 min
Wandering the EdgeA History of Ukrainian CinemaAlexander Dovzhenko is Ukraine's greatest screenwriter, producer and director. Ukraine's film institute is named after him. He was a genius that was tormented by Soviet censorship, favoured and agonized by Stalin's whims and made some of Ukraine's best films. While Sergei Parajanov made Ukraine's greatest film: Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors. The Armenian too was plagued by Soviet censorship and political pressures, while some his actors (and other Ukrainian actors) had to navigate the political-artistic landscape of Soviet Ukraine. Find out who these actors were, how the political influenced the artistic and which Ukrainian films made a world-wide impact in...2023-10-0138 min
Wandering the EdgeUkrainian DemocracyUkraine has had a long history of embracing democratic institutions - beginning with the viche in medieval Kyivan-Rus, the Cossack rada that elected their leaders and the Central Rada that declared independence in 1918. In these modern times, we see the example of the Kyiv viche that supported and propelled the Revolution of Dignity in 2013-2014. What exactly was the viche and how did these democratic institutions evolve in Ukraine? Find out in this episode!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2023-09-1534 min
Wandering the EdgeA Dramatic and Theatric History of the Ukrainian StageA look at the theatric history of the Ukrainian stage: Marko Kropyvnytskyi as Ukraine's greatest directors, playwrights and actors who played more than 500 characters and worked to promote and popularize the Ukrainian stage in the 19th century. Then comes Maria Zankovetska - an actress of such renown that she played her own corpse. Solomiya Krushelnytska was THE Madame Butterfly and Wagner's prima donna while Serge Lifar was a popular and a revolutionary ballet dancer and choreographer in Paris. All of them had one thing in common: they were Ukrainian!
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For more episodes...2023-09-0141 min
Beyond Barbarossa: The Eastern Front of World War 2Resistance Part 1: Beyond Barbarossa, Season 2, Episode 33From Ukraine to Poland to Estonia, across the Eastern Front, partisans and guerrillas fought for the independence of their nations—from both nazi Germany and the communist USSR.
And yes, I call communists and nazis "con artists," "fools" and "dupes."
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Leave a rating and/or a review on your podcatcher of choice. Send the link to it to contact@beyondbarbarossa.ca, and I will send you three e-books: Army of Worn Soles, Under the Nazi Heel and Walking Out of War. I will also enter your name in a draw for a s...2023-08-2834 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Ukrainian Trial of the Century: Bilas and DanylyshynUkrainian nationalism was on the rise during in the interwar years in Poland, and the 1932 trial of Dmytro Danylyshyn and Vasyl Bilas proved to be as tragic as it was popular. But who were these two youths? And why was the trial so broadly talked about? What lasting impact did it have and more importantly - why was the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists in the center of it all? Find out about this and more on this episode of Wandering the Edge.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please...2023-08-1532 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Bandura - Ukraine's National InstrumentThe bandura and the kobzari - those wandering bandura players - were important carries of Ukrainian oral history and culture. How did the bandura evolve to become the national instrument of Ukraine and where did those kobzari come from? Why were they important in Ukraine's historical memory of the Cossacks and why were they deemed such a treat to the Soviet Union? And how did the bandura find it's voice again in the Diaspora? Find out all of this and more on this episode!
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For more...2023-08-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeTalking Lesia Ukrainka with Dr. Sasha DovzhykAn interview with Dr. Sasha Dovzhyk about one of Ukraine's leading poetic and feminist voices - Lesia Ukrainka. Ukrainka, which was her pen name, began writing poetry at a young age, was first published at 8, was anti-Tsarist, passionately Ukrainian and fiercely feminist. In this discussion we talk about how her illness influenced her writing, what she saw of herself and how she saw her fellow females and fellow Ukrainians. Dr. Sasha is a prolific writer, activist and well - a happy wanderer who now splits her time between the UK and Ukraine. One of her many projects included helping...2023-06-1541 min
Wandering the EdgeA Traditional Pchilka-Kosach Family AffairWho was Olena Pchilka and Petro Kosach? And why and how did they create such enthusiastically nationally-minded and feminist children, like Lesya Ukrainka? What type of family home did they create (both literally and figuratively)? And who else in this super Ukrainian family was so influential in the family life of Lesya Ukrainka? Find out in this episode, about the family life of Lesya Ukrainka and those family members who impacted her so greatly.
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2023-06-0142 min
Wandering the EdgeUkrainian Feminism - it's fun!Did you know that Ukrainian feminism is different from it's Western sister? What makes it so different and who has influenced the evolution of both Ukrainian feminist theory and practice? Find out in this latest episode, where you will also listen to me fan-girling over Martha Bohachevsky-Chomiak, whose book "Feminists Despite Themselves" is one of the most influential histories of Ukrainian feminism...well, ever! There's also a lot from Solomiia Pavluchko - who was a leading Ukrainian feminist scholar, until her untimely death in 1999.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: w...2023-05-1540 min
Wandering the EdgeOleh - Viking, King or Prophet?Medieval King of Kyiv - Oleh the Prophet - was probably a Varangian (aka Viking) who grabbed power and ruled from Kyiv. Some say he was the first emperor of the Kyivan Rus Empire while others call him a warrior king as he raided and received a favourable treaty with Constantinople. Only problem is that primary sources of his life and times are in short supply - the dark ages were really that dark in early Rus! How much of his history is real, how much imagined by Nestor the Chronicler 300 years later and how much do we actually...2023-05-0137 min
Wandering the EdgeWandering UkrainiansWhat does a travel writer (pictured in the episode cover art), a noble turned foreign royal, a Mohawk tribal chief, a navy man and a space explorer have in common? Well, they were all Ukrainians! This episode looks at some fascinating histories of Sofia Yablonska (1930s travel photographer and writer), Kateryna Desnytska (Ukrainian noble turned Siam princess), Ivan Datsenko (Ukrainian WWII fighter pilot turned Canadian Mohawk tribal chief, and might not be real?), Yuri Lisianskyi (19th century naval explorer who circumnavigated the globe) and Pavel Popovich (Ukrainian cosmonaut and first Ukrainian to leave planet Earth). All of them wandered...2023-04-0140 min
Wandering the EdgePoland and Ukraine - Friends! Part 2The Second World War tore apart the Second Polish Republic and was the main precursor to the creation of the Polish Home Army (AK) and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). And while the relationship between Ukrainians and Poles was brutal and complicated during the horrific, anarchic years of the Second World War - both nationalities were targeted by the Soviet Union after it occupied the region. From the betrayal of the Poles during the Warsaw Uprising to the forced deportations of Ukrainians in western Ukraine - there were numerous examples of Soviet brutality that could have been confronted by...2023-03-1534 min
Wandering the EdgePoland and Ukraine - Friends! Part 1While Poland and Ukraine may have a very complicated history - there were moments of unity and cooperation between the two throughout history. This episode looks at one of these episodes in the 20th century which centres around the two leaders of their respective countries. Symon Petliura and Jozef Pilsudski have commonalities and differences - both knew what it meant to be under Russian occupation and both fought for their country's rights to exist. Both have a strained relationship with history and tried to work together but only one saw his country's true independence in the aftermath of the...2023-03-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Folk-Rock Legend: Volodymyr IvasyukHow did Volodymyr Ivasyuk become a house hold Ukrainian name? Why were his songs so popular - and are still sung around campfires, dining tables and front lines in today's Ukraine? Why do they hold such a powerful place in Ukrainian hearts, so much so that his music is now considered Ukrainian folk songs? And why was he so dangerous to the Russian dominated Soviet culture? Find out in this episode all about Ukraine's most popular composer: Volodymyr Ivasyuk, the man behind Chervona Ruta, Vodohrai and many, many more songs that explore Ukrainian love and beauty.
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Wandering the EdgeThe Other Colourful UkrainesUkrainian emigration outside of Ukraine have been ongoing for centuries - both west and east. So many Ukrainians emigrated that they formed small Ukrainian communities who identified themselves as Ukrainians and many even wanted to join an independent Ukrainian People's Republic in the early 20th century. These colourful Ukraines: the Red, the Grey, the Yellow and the Green Ukraines were historically, actively Ukrainian. They all had societies, clubs, events, organizations and congresses (Ukrainians LOVE congresses) that swore to their identity. Unfortunately, most have been silenced. But you'll find their history in this episode.
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2023-02-0138 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Dumb Sons of Yaroslav the WiseYaroslav the Wise had four daughters and six sons. His daughters were all married to European rulers while his sons decided to play game of the thrones of Kyivan Rus. Well, three of them did - anyway. Iziaslav was ruler three different times and was an European adventurer, while Sviatoslav was the wise one with a short reign and Vsevolod was the last, who ruled the longest. How did this complicated relationship of brothers and rulers come about and why did Iziaslav spend so much time in Europe? Find out in this latest episode!
Facebook & Instagram: Wanderedgeukraine2022-12-1540 min
Wandering the EdgeJune 1941: The Great MassacreThe Second World War saw some of the most terrible and inhumane episodes in human history. Millions of civilians and soldiers were dead by the end of it. Why is one month in 1941 so important for Ukrainian history? It showed the sadistic nature of the Soviet occupation and NKVD agencies with the mechanical murder of political prisoners sitting in Soviet prisons throughout Ukraine. It resulted in thousands of deaths and greatly influenced the suffering of many more. This episode explores how this massacre was allowed to happen (through Soviet leadership), how these prisoners were intentionally killed and the stories...2022-12-0144 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Ukrainian HaremThe Ottoman Empire is known, among other things, for its imperial harem. But a female slave from Ukraine turned the whole system of concubines on its head and ushered in an age of female domination. This was the famous and infamous Roxelana (aka Hurrem Sultan). One of the last of these great women was another Ukrainian - Turhan Sultan (or Nadiya). Another might have been Ukrainian - but I'm not 100% sure of her. In this episode, we explore their origins, how they got to Istanbul and how they goverened their respective courts.
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F...2022-11-1543 min
Beyond Barbarossa: The Eastern Front of World War 2Ukraine 1941 and 2022:Episode 13A conversation with Larysa Zariczniak, host and producer of the Wandering the Edge podcast on Ukrainian culture and history, with a spot of travel—when Ukraine isn't being invaded.
We spoke about Ukrainian culture, history, parallels between 1941 and 2022, and what the experiences of those two periods can tell us about the Ukrainian cultural identity.
Wandering the Edge is available on all podcasting platforms. Visit the website at WanderingTheEdge.net.
2022-11-0236 min
Wandering the EdgeAn Interview with Scott Bury - novelist and podcasterScott Bury is a journalist, novelist (from fantasy series to murder-mysteries to historical novels) and now podcaster. His Eastern Front Trilogy follows the story of his father-in-law, Maurice Bury - a Canadian who served in the Red Army from 1941 to 1945. Scott also has a new podcast, the only English speaking podcast that focuses on the Eastern Front of the Second World War - the Beyond Barbarossa podcast. We talk about all of this and how Russia's war today is reminiscent of the Red Army of the Second World War.
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For more episodes...2022-11-0137 min
Wandering the EdgeThe 1960's Dissidents - the SixtiersThe 1960's counter-culture in Soviet Ukraine was a bit more dramatic than that of the West: poets could were feared, the individual was on the rise and national awareness was creeping up into the national consciousness of Ukraine's students and intellectuals. Some of these dissidents were arrested, some killed but all of them influenced a generation of people and an entire nation. From a revolt over the destruction of a stained-glass window in Kyiv to theatrical protests against sham show trials - these artists weren't afraid of the all-powerful communist party; but the party was afraid of them. Take...2022-10-1536 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Last Great King of Kyiv - Volodymyr MonomakhVolodymyr Monomakh was the prince of Smolensk, Chernihiv, Pereiaslav and finally the Grand Prince (aka King) of Kyivan-Rus from 1113 to 1125. How did this grandson of Yaroslav the Wise rise from the thousandth in line to rule the Empire? Find out in this episode along with how much the man loved to hunt (a lot, trust me, it was A LOT!), how he used diplomacy and warfare to solve his issues and how he is related to the English nobility!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2022-10-0132 min
Wandering the EdgeA Princess and a Colonel - The SushkosA Russian princess turned famed front-line doctor meets a young strapping Ukrainian Colonel of the Ukrainian People's Army in 1919. They marry, have a kid, and get interned in two different prisoners of war camps, divorce but still see each other. Who were these two remarkable people? It was Khrystyna and Roman Sushko and this episode explores their lives individually and together and how they both influenced early 20th century Ukrainian history.
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2022-08-1531 min
Wandering the EdgeAn Evolution of Ukrainian DanceA verbal look at a very visual art form - we'll look at the evolution of Ukrainian dance. From a very pagan, spiritual dance form asking the gods for help to a modern, ballet-inspired whirlwind of complexity and FUN! We'll also get a look at the history of the hopak and how Ukrainian dance evolution diverged between Soviet-style Ukrainian folk and Diaspora Ukrainian folk dance and who was important in this process of evolution. Special thank you to Anna Sudyk Photography for the picture use!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please...2022-08-0125 min
Wandering the EdgeA Very Stubborn Cossack - Col. Ivan BohunWho was this Cossack whom a Polish historian described as: "A lion's courage, the mobility of the snake, the cunning of the fox and the light-heartedness of the wind trembled in Bohun’s every vein. Freedom, space, the steppe and war were his element"? A man who was a stubborn independentist and believed that Ukraine should not rely on any other power but its own. This was a man who inspired generations of Ukrainian men and women (for two different reasons) - this was Colonel Ivan Bohun. We delve into his military history and tactical brilliance on the battlefiled an...2022-07-1533 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Unofficial Greek Catholic Patriarch Josyf SlipyjA man born in one empire, studied in Italy and Germany, came back to Lviv which was under Poland for his vocation, lived through the Second World War, was put in a GULAG for almost 20 years and freed by the efforts of an American President, a Vatican Pope and a Soviet Premier. This was Major Archbishop (and Patriarch for many Ukrainians) Josyf Slipyj - the successor of Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky. His life was embroiled in politics, but he remained apolitical but supremely Ukrainian. What influenced him, how did he react to his imprisonment and what role did he play...2022-07-0134 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Metropolitan Count of Lviv: Andrey SheptytskyA royal count who became a laywer who found his calling as a priest and became the head of his church at the age of 35! This was Metroplitan Andrey Sheptytsky - who came from a mixed Polish-Ukrainian family who valued the youth and Ukrainian national-consciousness. He was a man that didn't give the Vatican a dime of money but put it all back to his flock: by creating orphanages, hospitals and schools. He was admired as he was feared by imperialists, he openly condemned the killings that occurred on all sides of the Second World War and instigated a...2022-06-1542 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Union of Brest - A Union with Papal RomeWhat is the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and how did it come about? Who were the main characters who made it happen, who sort-of lost his mind in the process and how was it received? This Union wasn't the first attempt to unify the Eastern and Western Christian churches but it made a great impact on Ukraine's religious history. We'll take a look at the beginnings of the Uniate Church (another name for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church) and why they're (still) perceived as a threat to Moscow's Orthodoxy.
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For more episodes, s...2022-06-0131 min
Wandering the EdgeInterview with Alik Gomelsky - Ukrainian-Jewish RelationsOur first interview of 2022 is with researcher and historian Alik Gomelsky. Originally from Kharkiv, he is a member of the Canadian Author’s Association, co-founder of the Ukrainian-Jewish International Association and the author of "History: Unlearned Lessons", "Simon Petliura: Facts against Myths" and his latest: "Jewish-Ukrainian Relations. 20thCentury" (all in Ukrainian). His work is based on declassified KGB, CIA, Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists and German archives along with memoirs. He focuses is mainly on historical events and personalities through the prism of Jewish-Ukrainian relations.
In this episode we look through the more troublesome history of Ukrainian-Jewish relations th...2022-05-151h 02
Wandering the EdgeMyths of War - How Russia Doesn't Understand their Own HistoryRussia today wants to "deNazify" Ukraine, to eliminate the Ukrainian "fascists" and has systematically killed innocent civilians in this demented drive of theirs. But how did we get to this point - where Russian society supports the eradication of an entire people? Well, a lot of it has to do with misleading and outright lies that they turned into myths of the Second World War. Their version of events is different than the rest of the world, their experiences of the Second World War are so different than those of Ukraine that they don't have the capacity to understand...2022-04-1542 min
Wandering the EdgeStudents' MaidansUkraine's independence in 1991 could not have been accomplished without the 1990 Revolution on Granite. The Orange Revolution could not have been organized without the students in 2004. And the 2014 Revolution of Dignity was as much a student protest as a national indication of the nation's governance. How were students so organized that they stood up against some huge political obstacles? What happened during those revolutions and why were there so many? This episode looks at the history of student protest and revolution in modern Ukrainian history. Unfortunately, no tourism information as Putin has escalated his war against Ukraine because he's a...2022-04-0134 min
Wandering the EdgeA Response to Putin's Insane SpeechRussian preside/dictator went on national television on Feb. 21, 2022 and showed the world that he was an insane despot. Three days later, on Feb. 24 at 5am Kyiv time, the Russian army began bombing Kyiv. This episode is a response to that crazy, delusional speech from Putin. There is a lot of swearing, because I'm pretty mad. There's no travel or tourist information and won't be until every Russian soldier get's out of Ukraine!
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For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2022-03-1527 min
Wandering the EdgeNestor Makhno: Ukraine's Famous and/or Infamous AnarchistDue to the current Russia war against Ukraine, I've cut the travel/tourist topics from these episodes going forward until Putin withdraws his troops or basically dies. But I will still look at various historical topics, like in this episode: Nestor Makhno was a revolutionary anarchist during a time of complete chaos of the post-First World War Ukraine. He fought against various coloured armies and commanded the respect of his own "Black Army". The peasants who followed him, named him their "father" and the communists feared his reputation among those peasants. Who exactly was Makhno, how did he rule...2022-03-0148 min
Wandering the EdgeRussian Imperialist's Views on UkraineWhat is Russian imperialism and how does it differ from any other form of imperialism? Where did it start and why is it so focused on Ukraine? What is Putin, really and why is he so terrified of letting Ukraine go (even though we don't really want to be part of his "Ruskiy Mir")? Find out in this latest episode! We'll also discuss the historical ties of Russian imperialism with Ukraine and how it was used to not only belittle Ukrainians but also control their periphery colonies. Warning: there is a lot of swearing in this episode!
A...2022-02-2137 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Voice of Ukraine: Taras ShevchenkoTaras Shevchenko (1814-1861) was a Ukrainian poet, writer, artist, public, political figure, folklorist and ethnographer. He is seen by many as Ukraine's prophet and his poetry is the foundation of Ukraine' modern literature. He was an orphan, a serf, a Russian titled "Artist", an exile and a lonely figure that was surrounded by a group of literary friends who bought him out of slavery and also bought him his eternal resting place in Kaniv. Find out why this man is so important to Ukriane and Ukrainians - not only during his own time but in these modern times as...2022-02-1543 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Women of the Ukrainian Sich RiflemenThese women were some of the firsts to become officers in any armed forces of the world - during a time of unimaginable turmoil that was the Great War. These veterans of the First World War had active lives before, during and after the war and impacted the history of Ukraine in the twentieth century. Some became leaders in various organizations, others went into politics while some just couldn't adjust to normal life. Why did they join the Austro-Hungarian Armed Forces? What did they fight for? And what was their impact on Ukrainian history? This episode will look at...2022-02-0145 min
Wandering the EdgeNationalism of the Borderlands of the BorderlandIn this week's episode, we have a discussion with Dr. Marnie Howlett - a Departmental Lecturer in Politics and Qualitative Methods in the Department of Politics and International Relations at Oxford University. We will be talking about her doctoral thesis dissertation titled “Re-Envisioning Nationalism from the Borderlands of a Borderland: An analysis of post-Soviet Ukraine," along with many, many other things including what is everyday nationalism, what role does foreign agency play and the importance of spacial dimensions. Plus, we get to talk about where exactly do we come from - is it important to have the passport or th...2021-12-1550 min
Wandering the EdgeHryhor Orlyk - Ukrainian Hetman in Exile and a French SpyGregory Orlyk or Gregoire Orlyk or Hryhor Orlyk - the Knight of the Swedish Order of the Sword, the French Order of Saint Louis and the Polish Order of the White Eagle. He was influential in 18th century European diplomacy and military affairs, criss-crossed Europe in various disguises and even wanted to create a Cossack Sich on the Rhine. And he wrote - A LOT! Find out in this episode about one of Ukraine’s unfortunate yet determined sons. Plus, get a walk through the most well-known Ukrainian fortresses with a long, long history – Khotyn.
To donate: https...2021-12-0140 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Golden Constitution - Orlyk's Constitution and Polubotok's GoldPylyp Orlyk, Ivan Mazepa's successor, wrote one of the first democratic constitutions in European history. He was also an exiled Hetman, a wandering diplomat and a endless optimist when it came to Ukrainian-Cossack independence. How did he rise in the ranks of the Cossacks and what were his diplomatic relations throughout Europe? This episode delves into that along with an indepth examination of the rumour of some Cossack gold care of Hetman Pavlo Polutobok. Plus, hear about some great Indian restaurants in Kyiv!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Instagram: @W...2021-11-1536 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Machiavellian Prince - Ivan MazepaHetman Ivan Mazepa is a controversial historical figure - but he was also the longest ruling Hetman of the Cossacks and the only one to die a natural death, in freedom. His life was a bit of a soup opera with some wild adventures throughout Europe, he had a bromance with Peter the Great which eventually turned ugly and he inspired some great writers like Voltaire and Lord Byron. So who was this great political and military leader and what did he do to become such a controversial figure? This episode will explore that and more. You'll also get...2021-11-0146 min
Wandering the EdgeDanylo Rex Rusiae - Ukraine's Sole KingKing Danylo Halytsky or Daniel of Galicia or the King of Ruthenia or Danylo Romanovych or Prince of Galicia, Przemysl and Volodymyr - a 13th century mediaval noble with many titles. The son of a great "prince" and a foreign princess, a knight-king who ruled and expanded his kingdom, who fought the Golden Horde, reworked his armies, increased his kingdom's political and economic strength and was given a Papal crown - this was King Danylo and his life and feats are the focus of this episode. You'll also get to explore some of Lviv's great museums - a city...2021-10-1542 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Not So Secret Cyril and Methodius BrotherhoodThe Brotherhood of Sts. Cyril and Methodius was a secret literary club including some of Ukraine's most prominent Romantic literary figures, including Taras Shevchenko, during a time where literary clubs were all the rage throughout Europe. In this episode, you will meet some of them but also get a glimpse at their impact for Ukrainian history and the Ukrainian national consciousness and how all of this was part and parcel of the wider Spring of Nations revolutions gripping Europe. Plus, you'll get some info about all the "intellectual" hot-spots of Kyiv!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/r...2021-10-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Daughter's of Kyiv in EuropeDo you know how small the 11th century medieval European royal courts were? How did Yaroslav the Wise become known as the "father-in-law of Europe"? How his four daughters became influential among the Hungarian, Norwegian, English and French royalty? Well, this episode looks at Yaroslav the Wise's four daughters: Anastasia, Agatha, Elizabeth and Anne and how their marriages happened, what we know of their life stories and who their descendants were. You'll also learn about the various airlines that fly into the various airports of Ukraine and why the bankruptcy of AeroSvit was such a sweet, sweet moment!
2021-08-1545 min
Wandering the EdgeOperation Frantic - Americans on Ukrainian Soviet Soil during the Second World WarOperation Frantic was a joint (sort-of) Soviet-American bombing operation at the tail-end of the Second World War. Using Ukrainian air bases that also housed the Germans and Soviets before them, the American bombers tried to help the Allied war effort by bombing eastern German targets, tried to get the German Luftwaffe's attention during D-Day and also dropped aid to the Poles during the Warsaw Uprising. How did the Soviets react to this, how did they screw up in defending their own allies and what did the American servicemen think about this joint operation? Learn more about this little-known Allied...2021-08-0147 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Scythians and Amazons of UkraineDid you know that the Scythians were a large influence on European civilization? That their military prowess lead them all the way to Egypt and against the famous of ancient rulers - Darius the Great and Alexander the Great? How about the Amazons - did you know they were active members of Scythian society? What's myth and what's truth about the famous women warriors? You will find out in this episode along with an explorations of Scythian society through the eyes of ancient Greeks, Romans and even Shakespeare! Plus, some great stories of traveling (modern) Ukraine via train!
2021-07-1538 min
Wandering the EdgeA History of Ukrainian Music Conversation with Marichka MarczykHow did Ukrainian music evolve throughout time? What influenced it and how was it changed by Soviet occupation? What is the "bilyj holos" or natural voice of Ukraine and what makes it so special? Find out all of this over some girl talk about what Ukrainian folk music means - from those of us who came from a village or even those who didn't step one foot outside the city until much later in life. In this special episode, Marichka Marczyk - Ukrainian ethnomusicologist, singer and folklorist from the famous Bozhychi, Kuku Shanel, Lemon Bucket Orkestra ensembles (and Balaklava...2021-07-0150 min
Wandering the EdgeMetropolitan Lypkivsky - Ukraine's Martyr Orthodox LeaderWho was Metropolitan Lypkivsky, the man who said this in 1919: "If you do not become united in the defence of your homeland, you will weep under Moscow captivity, as Israel once did under Babylon." Find out how he grew up, his history in the Orthodox Church, his rebellious insistance in creating an Ukrainian independence churce and his persecution by the Soviet authorities. Also, get a great tourist and historical lesson about Kyiv's magical St. Sophia Cathedral!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Instagram: @Wanderedgeukraine
For more episodes, photo credits, sources and e...2021-06-1539 min
Wandering the EdgeUkraine's Political Economy - The OligarchsIn this episode, we explore how and why Ukraine's oligarchs came to be through the prism of the theory of political economy. Which oligarchs own what, how did Ukraine pseudo-mafia state begin and how did communism influence it? There's also some frustrating stories of how Ukraine's state system works, from personal experience. Plus, you'll get a great tour of some of central Kyiv's most memorable pubs!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
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For more episodes, photo credits, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2021-06-0145 min
Wandering the EdgeMy Big Fat Ukrainian WeddingWhy are Ukrainian weddings so awesome? How were these traditions created and how did they evolve? When do the couple begin their wedding journey and how does it end? And why is a barn involved? Well, in this episode we will marry Taras and Zoriana and go through the three stages of a Ukrainian wedding: the pre-wedding, wedding and post-wedding craziness. We'll also learn about a huge open-air architectural museum in Kyiv - the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Instagram: @Wanderedgeukraine
Fo...2021-05-1546 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Executed Renaissance - the "Slovo" Building in the 1930sWho was part of the Red Renaissance - a group of Ukrainian communist artist-intellectuals who got to live in their own apartment building? This one buiding in central Kharkiv became Stalin's "Great Terror Lite" - before the terror of the late 1930's, Stalin managed to arrest, exile or execute 90% of the residents of this "Slovo" building. Why and how? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge along with some fascinating information about Ukraine's most prominent modernist, experimental theater group named after one of those artists killed by Stalin.
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews...2021-04-1541 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Ukrainian Cossacks - All You Really Wanna KnowWho were the registered and Zaporizhian Cossacks, what was their impact on Ukrainian culture, society, historical memory, military formations and psyche and why are they different from the Russians? This episode explains how those who fled serfdom to the wild, wild east of the Ukrainian steppes in the 16th century created a culture that still has a huge impact on Ukraine, that their imagery is as popular as it ever was. You'll also get to see how one man ignited a fire of an uprising, how history is perceived different through different eyes and why Ukrainians love their Hopak...2021-04-0143 min
Wandering the EdgeMarusia Churai - Ukraine's Feisty and Infamous PoetessMarusia Churai, Ukrainian poetess from the 17th century, wrote a poem about poisoning her lover and then became a national icon. How did this happen? Why did her poems, turned songs, become an inspiration for a nation and how did them become some of the best known Ukrainian national songs? Find out in this episode which details the love-triangle Marusia got herself into, the death sentence she got out of and how her story has been debated and explored, most notably by Lina Kostenko in the 1970s. You'll also get to hear about the wonders of Kyiv parks!
2021-03-1542 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Viking Queen of Rus - Olha of Kyiv (or Olga of Kiev)This episode explores the story of Olha of Kyiv – saint, mother, queen, diplomat, reformer and warrior (probably). The woman whose revenge is part of history, who outsmarted the Emperor of Byzantium and who inspired the bloodiest weddings in the "Game of Thrones" world. This episode places her in a wider historical European world but also looks at her story through a more Viking perspective. Also, take a trip to Kyiv's St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery - outside of which you can find a great statue of Olha herself.
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Inst...2021-03-0144 min
Wandering the EdgeCucuteni-Trypillians: A Civilization of Fire and Waves Part 2In the second episode of our look at the Cucuteni-Trypillian civilization, we'll take a deep dive into the agricultural landscape, trade, the importance of salt and pottery. What religion did they practice? Why did they like to burn so much stuff? Who are the PIE's and why were they important in killing off the Trypillians? Plus the greatest mystery that has come out of this civilization - what the hell are those hollow binoculars for? We'll also explore some Trypillian museums around Kyiv, mainly the Trypilsky Cultural Museum and the Kyiv Regional Archeological Museum.
To donate: https://ww...2021-02-1537 min
Wandering the EdgeCucuteni-Trypillians: A Civilization of Fire and Waves Part 1Which civilization is older - Sumer, Egypt or the Cucuteni-Trypillian? Find out in this episode and learn about the first civilization to build urban settlements, why they systematically burned down entire mega-sites and what kind of buildings they lived in. You'll also get a tour of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine which features awesome exhibits, cheap entrance fees and no little old Ukrainian ladies yelling at you!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Instagram: @Wanderedgeukraine
For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net2021-02-0138 min
Wandering the EdgeBonus - Christmas TraditionsIn this special bonus episode for the holidays, we explore the history of Ukrainian Christmas traditions. Why do we have 12 courses, what are the little weird does and don'ts that Ukrainians love to observe and what other weird traditions do we still hold dear? Find out, along with some of the traditions that have been around for a thousand and more years! Plus, you'll get an extra rant about borsch - Ukrainian beet soup!
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/reviews
Facebook & Instagram: @wanderedgeukraine
For more episodes, sources and extras and photo credits, p...2021-01-1423 min
Wandering the EdgeIndependence for a Day: Carpatho-Ukraine in March 1939In this week’s episode, a discussion is had with Oleksandr Pahiria, a historian specializing on Carpatho-Ukraine - which declared independence in March 1939. It kept that independence alive, almost against all hope, for only one day. This episode digs into the reasons why Carpatho-Ukraine came to be, how it proclaimed and tried to hold onto independence and its unfortunate demise. You'll also be able to hear about the great places to see in Uzhhorod - the capital of the Zakarpattia oblast from a native son!
Photo credit: Ivan Lyah
To donate: https://www.wanderingtheedge.net/revi...2020-12-011h 14
Wandering the EdgeThe Not-so-Princes of Thieves: Ukrainian Robin HoodsRobin Hoods weren’t only around in the English countryside and in this episode we’ll learn that almost every culture has their version of a Robin Hood type – even in ancient times! But who were Ukraine's Robin Hoods? Well - there are a couple, but the ones discussed truly commanded respect and did actually steal from the rich and gave to the poor. This episode is about the famous (and infamous) Oleksa Dovbush and the lesser known Andriy Savka. Along the way we'll learn about Ukrainian regional breakfast food and give you some hotel advice if you're even in the...2020-11-1547 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Blue and Yellow Maple Leaf: Ukrainian-Canadian Second World War VeteransThousands of Ukrainian-Canadians joined the Canadian Armed Forces during the Second World War - this episode will look at some of their histories, where they came from, why they joined, what they experienced during the war and what they did in their post-war lives. Along the way, you'll get a review of some French restaurants in Kyiv and an explanation of how Ukrainians always manage to find other Ukrainians - even among the world war! Also, please check out the premier of "A Canadian War Story" at https://canadianwarstory.com/
Photo credit: Marko Blazevic
To...2020-11-0144 min
Wandering the EdgeCaffe Ukrainano: Yuri Kulchytskyi and the Battle of ViennaWhat does a Ukrainian have to do with revolutionizing the coffee world? How did he save a besieged Vienna? And how does Lviv's coffee culture have to do with Great Turkish War of the 17th century? Find out on this episode of Wandering the Edge along with some great coffee recommendations in the coffee capital of Ukraine - Lviv!
Warning: explicit language is used.
For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net or check out our Facebook page!2020-10-1535 min
Wandering the EdgeUkrainian Paganism: Fires, Flowers and Orgies – Oh my!How many pagan traditions still exist in Ukrainian culture? Who did the pagans worship and which of their festivals do Ukrainians still celebrate? What weird yet delightful customs do Ukrainians still hold dear? And how do we celebrate one of our most important cultural festivals - the summer solstice? Find out in the latest episode of Wandering the Edge and along the way learn what does all of this have to do with the capitalist cottage playground of the rich and famous in Kyiv, a yacht and a day out on the Dnipro River!
Warning: explicit language...2020-10-0140 min
Wandering the EdgeIt's Alive - Language I Mean: A History of the Ukrainian LanguageWhy is language important? How did the Ukrainian language evolve to what it is today? And how does language endanger the ruling class? Find out in this episode of Wandering the Edge about the history of the Ukrainian language. Also find out just how important Taras Shevchenko is to Ukraine and why little old ladies yelling at you is just a common past-time at Ukrainian museums.
Warning: explicit language is used.
For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net or check out our Facebook page!2020-09-1541 min
Wandering the EdgeThe Problem with "The": A History of the Name UkraineA name is important, a country name is a brand, so how did Ukraine become Ukraine? This episode explores the fascinating, complex and surprisingly political history of the name Ukraine. From Moscow's influence, to Western cartographers to a fight for survival and now a problem with an English grammar article, this episode explores all that and more.
Travel options include a theme loving Lviv along with some border guard drama and meat-mysterious meals.
Warning: explicit language is used.
For more episodes, sources and extras, please visit: wanderingtheedge.net or check out our Facebook pa...2020-08-1539 min