Shows
Smarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 58: Greek Flavors and Ancient PropheciesEver wondered how a simple baked fish recipe can lead us on a journey through ancient Greek mythology? Join us as we blend culinary creativity with historical exploration, starting with a delightful and easy-to-follow Greek-style baked fish recipe from Greek Boston. There's plenty to savor, from our wine pairing tips to a quirky discussion about why some salmon are classified as white fish. Plus, I heard about our kitchen mishaps, like forgetting the tomatoes, and how we turned it around with some tasty suggestions like serving the dish over rice or with crusty bread.Travel back in...
2024-07-2937 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 57: Queen Olga of Kiev: A Tale of Vengeance and LegacyWhat if a queen's ultimate revenge could change the course of a nation's history? Discover the chilling yet riveting story of Queen Olga of Kiev, a formidable ruler whose cunning and ruthless tactics left an indelible mark on medieval Eastern Europe. Start your journey with us as we bring the flavors of history to life, beginning with a mouth-watering discussion about Ukrainian braised pork with mashed potatoes. From there, we unravel the mysterious origins of Queen Olga, delving into her possible Varangian, Slavic, or Northern Russian Viking roots. The episode chronicles her marriage to Prince Igor of Kiev and...
2024-07-0112 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 56: Avian Elegance and Culinary BlissWhat if fashion could lead to the near-extinction of entire bird species? Join us as we explore the dark side of 19th-century feathered fashion and its devastating impact on avian populations. But before diving into this fascinating and somber tale, we share our delightful baking adventure with the classic Southern hummingbird cake. From the rich and tropical ingredients to the unexpected challenges in the kitchen, we recount our journey to create a dessert that's both heavy in components yet light and fluffy in texture. Get your slice ready, and prepare for a culinary and historical treat!Feathers...
2024-06-1021 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 55: Benjamin Franklin's Surprising Subterranean MysteryWho would've thought that a discussion about Benjamin Franklin's quirky eating habits could lead to an unsettling discovery in his London basement? Join Phoenix and I, Smarticus, as we munch through Franklin's amusing cranberry and apple cravings and ponder over his patriotic poultry proposal. But brace yourselves, for our conversation takes an eerie twist when we recount the hair-raising tale of over 1,200 human bones found beneath Franklin's residence. Get ready to sip on some 'crapple juice' and tackle a historical whodunit that's as captivating as it is creepy.In the spirit of curiosity, we're toasting to the...
2024-05-2713 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 54: A Four-Legged War Hero and a Taste of Wartime Culinary IngenuityEver wondered about the unsung heroes and quirky tales hidden in the folds of history? Buckle up and join us, Smarticus and Phoenix, as we bring to light the incredible saga of Juliana the Great Dane, a four-legged combatant who sniffed out her spot in World War II history not once, but twice — all with the help of her bladder! This episode isn't just another walk through the history park; it's a gallop alongside the most unexpected of war heroes.Strap in for a time-traveling taste test too, as we reminisce over a wartime dish that's as st...
2024-05-2009 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 53: When Tuberculosis Bred Vampires in the Heart of AmericaUnearth the chilling truths that lurk in the shadows of history as we recount the New England Vampire Panic, where the dread of disease transformed into a fear of the undead. Together with expert folklorists Michael Bell and Paul Barber, we uncover how 18th and 19th-century communities were ensnared in a web of superstition, leading them to disturb the eternal rest of their dearly departed. This is not mere fiction; it's a stark revelation of the lengths to which fear can drive humanity, a journey through an era where tuberculosis's pall cast a much more sinister specter across the...
2024-05-0516 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 52: Ancient Wonders and Flavorful Feasts of MicronesiaEver wondered about the enchanting ruins that rival the mystique of the great pyramids? Let's unwrap the secrets of Nan Madal together! Join Smartacus and yours truly, Phoenix, as we journey to the heart of Micronesia and endeavor to untangle the perplexing history of the ancient city dubbed the Venice of the Pacific. Not only will this episode tickle your fancy for untold historical tales, but we also promise a touch of culinary adventure—recreating a local chicken dish that's bound to get your taste buds dancing with its exotic blend of chili, curry, and a dash of ginger.
2024-04-0813 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 51: The Timeless Tale of Betty BoopStep back in time with us and rediscover the jazz-infused world of the 1920s through the captivating eyes of Betty Boop. Your ears won't believe the fascinating origins of this flapper icon, as we unveil her journey from Max Fleischer's drawing board to the hearts of millions. With the help of our co-host phoenix, we'll spill the secrets behind Betty's creation, inspired by the cheeky Helen Kane and how the "boop-boop-a-doop" songstress's lawsuit didn't hinder Betty's rise but rather sealed her stardom. Revel in the nostalgia as we recount Betty's groundbreaking role in animation, her dance with jazz legends...
2024-03-2517 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 50: Ancient Academia and Edible Antiquities in a Modern QuestEmbark on a voyage through the annals of time with us, Smarticus and Phoenix, where you'll uncover the unexpected connections between an ancient university and an empire lost to history. Prepare to be astonished by the revelation that the hallowed halls of Oxford University date back even before the Aztecs laid their first stone in Tenochtitlan. But it's not all about dusty old facts; we'll whisk you away on a whimsical adventure into the realm of historical baking. Who knew that a lardy cake could teach us so much about the past, and more importantly, about the subtleties of...
2024-03-1114 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 49: Civilization's Frothy Foundation in Ancient MesopotamiaUnlock the secrets of a 3,900-year-old Sumerian poem and discover how it's not just a tribute to the goddess Ninkasi, but also a recipe for the beer that coursed through ancient Mesopotamia's veins. With my cohost, Phoenix, we celebrate the professional brewmasters of yore, whose precise record-keeping on clay tablets offers us a glimpse into a society where beer was more than a frothy beverage—it was a cornerstone of civilization, a currency, and a staple of sustenance. As we clink our glasses filled with the past, join us in a lighthearted yet enlightening exploration of what Sum...
2024-02-2008 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 48: Nautical Escapes and the Life of an Unconquered Sea VoyagerIn this captivating episode, we embark on a thrilling journey through the extraordinary life of Violet Jessup, the indomitable woman who defied the odds and survived not just one, but three maritime disasters, including the infamous sinking of the Titanic. Join us as we uncover the remarkable tale of "Miss Unsinkable," from her challenging early years in Argentina to her daring escapades on the high seas. With a dash of humor and culinary curiosity, we also explore the flavors of the Titanic era, whipping up a stew that transports us back in time. Prepare to be amazed by Violet's...
2024-02-0519 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 47: Tales of a Prowler in the FogEver wondered if the tales of the Mad Gasser of Mattoon were steeped in paranoia or if there was a genuine prowler on the loose? Your hosts, Smarticus and Phoenix, promise to guide you through the misty contours of this perplexing story, dissecting each element from mass hysteria to environmental anomalies. But that's not all we have on our plate – we're also tossing into the mix our pizza-making saga, contrasting the craftsmanship of homemade Chicago-style deep-dish with the ease of the store-bought variety, with a special nod to the gluten-free challenges that Phoenix encountered.As we navigate th...
2024-01-2212 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 46: The Afterlife Trial of a Pope and Mayan Beauty RitualsStep right up to the grand stage of history where the dead speak and the living listen—in a most literal sense! Join Phoenix and I as we recount the spine-chilling story of Pope Formosus, whose earthly deeds led to an otherworldly trial, long after his last breath. This week's episode is a tapestry of intrigue and gastronomy, where we not only unearth ecclesiastical enigmas but also share the divine pleasure of a pork loin recipe worthy of saintly acclaim. You'll be left pondering the lengths of medieval politics while savoring the richness of Vatican cuisine, as we intertwine ta...
2024-01-0817 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 45: Unraveling the Mystery of the Franklin Lost ExpeditionEver wondered what could have led to the disappearance of the Franklin Lost Expedition in 1845? Pull up a chair and join us, your hosts Smarticast and Phoenix, as we unravel this icy mystery and the theories that might answer this question. We delve into an eerie tale that saw Sir John Franklin and his crew vanish without a trace while attempting to discover the Northwest Passage. Lady Jane Franklin, Sir John's second wife, spearheaded a search that marked history's largest naval hunt. As we dissect theories from lead poisoning to the harsh Arctic elements, we'll also unmask unsettling possibilities...
2023-12-1811 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 44: Unmasking Robin Hood, A Deep Dive into Legend and Medieval CuisineHave you ever wondered about the truth behind the legendary figure Robin Hood? Well, buckle up because this week on Smarticus Tales History, we're about to give you a first-row seat to the past as we debunk the myths and shed light on the reality behind this famed outlaw. I'm your host, Smarticus, joined by my co-host, Phoenix as we dig into the Robin Hood legend, serving up fascinating insights, trivia, and stories wrapped up in our unique humor and camaraderie.Now, we wouldn't be Smarticus Tales if we didn't mix in a bit of culinary adventure...
2023-12-1113 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 43: The Fouke Monster, A Tale of Terror, Tidbits and Tasty TreatsImagine stumbling upon a cryptid creature, lurking in the wild woods of Arkansas. Would you be terrified or thrilled? This episode of Smarticus Tells History brings you face to face with the eerie legend of the Fouqe Monster. A creature that has both fascinated and frightened locals for over a century. We dive into the theories and tales surrounding this gorilla-like monster, discussing everything from its first sighting in 1908, to the 1973 movie that brought it into national focus. Strap in as we dissect whether it could be a misidentified bear, or perhaps an undiscovered primate species?Nothing...
2023-12-0419 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 42: Unraveling History: From Pudding to Phantom SoldiersWho would've thought a dessert with a name like "spotted dick" and inflatable tanks would have anything in common? Well, we at Smarticus Tells History promise to take you on a wild ride exploring the uncanny connections between these two seemingly unrelated topics. Today, co-host Phoenix and I uncover the intriguing and lesser-known stories behind the inflatable tanks or 'spoofs' used by the British Army during World War II, and the traditional British pudding, spotted dick. We've had quite the adventure creating and tasting this classic dessert, and we can't wait to share our experience (and the recipe) with...
2023-11-2816 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 41: Unveiling the Truth Behind Egypt's Great Pyramid and Napoleon's ExpeditionEver imagined what it would be like to explore the hidden chambers of the Great Pyramid of Giza? Join us and our co-host, Phoenix, as we take you through a riveting journey inside this ancient wonder, uncovering the mysteries of a secret room with the help of the Scan Pyramids project. We'll also demystify the legendary saga of Napoleon's expedition into the Pyramid, separating fact from fiction to bring you the real story behind the myth.But there's more to Egypt than just pyramids. Ever tasted Hawaushi, the delicious street food that Cairo takes pride in? We...
2023-11-2016 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 40: Tastes of Germany and Tales of Timeless Floating MessagesAre you ready to embark on a tasty adventure? Phoenix and I kick things off by warming your palate with a hearty chat about Germany's culinary staple - the bratwurst. We navigate the varied terrain of this flavorful sausage, from the diverse ingredients used in different regions to the mouthwatering ways it's served. As we recount our own delicious encounters with bratwurst, we also serve up a side of cultural immersion, bringing you the vibrant energy of iconic German festivals. All the while, weaving in our everyday anecdotes about chores and life, making this a true feast for the...
2023-11-1314 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 39: An Exploration of Stonehenge's Enigma and British CuisineHow was Stonehenge built? And, what if those iconic Bluestones had healing properties? This episode promises to transport you back in time, shedding light on the enigmatic monument and its myriad of secrets. Alongside our co-host Phoenix, we will guide you through a captivating exploration of Stonehenge's construction, its historical significance, and the intriguing theories around the healing attributes of the Bluestones. But wait, there's more! We're not only delving into Britain's rich history, we're also tasting it. Drawing on historical cooking traditions, we introduce you to the rustic charm of traditional British breakfast foods, including Bacon...
2023-08-1424 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 38: Exploring Ancient South American Mummification and a Taste of Peruvian CuisineAre you ready to uncork a bottle of history lesser known to most? Prepare to be transported back in time as Phoenix and I pull you through the winding corridors of South American civilization, exposing the ancient art of mummification in all its eerie grandeur. Unveiling the mystic practices of the Inca Empire, the Nazca civilization, and the Mochi civilization, we piece together theories of intentional cranial deformation and unearth influences possibly not of this Earth. Our journey doesn't end there. We breathe life into the 3D-like model discovered near Chanchand, Peru, in a bid to illuminate the beliefs...
2023-08-0720 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 37: Australia's Great Emu WarWelcome back to another episode of Smarticus Tells History! Today's episode takes us to the fascinating and amusing chapter of the Australian Emu Wars. Learn about the unlikely conflict that occurred in the 1930s when emus became a menace to farmers in Western Australia.Links: Recipe: https://www.bestrecipes.com.au/recipes/mums-shepherds-pie-recipe/2v4tnoviSupport our show here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SC5G5XFCX8MYW Visit us on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sma...
2023-07-3140 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 36: The Hans Island DisputeWelcome to another episode of Smarticus Tells History. Today's story takes us to a small island located between Canada and Denmark called Hans Island. A territorial dispute over this tiny island has been ongoing for roughly 50 years, and even involved a bottle of liquorIn this episode, we explore the fascinating story of how Canada and Denmark fight over a small island with a bottle of liquorLinks: Recipe: Just a bottle of Crown Royal AppleSupport our show here: https://www.p...
2023-07-2438 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 35: The Jewish AvengersThe Jewish Avengers was a group of Holocaust survivors who sought retribution against the Nazis who had committed atrocities against their people. In this episode, we'll explore the history of the Holocaust, the formation of the Jewish Avengers, their actions, and their legacy.Links: Recipe: https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/matzo-ball-soup.htmlSupport our show here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SC5G5XFCX8MYW Visit us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmarticusTellsHistory...
2023-07-1729 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 34: The Blood CountessThis week we discuss how Elizabeth Bathory was one of the most notorious female serial killers in history. Born into a wealthy and powerful family in Hungary, her obsession with beauty and youth led her down a dark path that eventually led to her becoming known as the Blood Countess. In this episode, we'll explore her life and crimes, and the legacy she left behind.Links:Support our show here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SC5G5XFCX8MYW Start your own podcast on B...
2023-07-1031 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 31: The Great Locomotive ChaseThe United States Civil War is a never-ending source of tales of bravery, valor, and danger. But few stories capture the spirit of the battle quite like the Great Locomotive Chase. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, we explore the strangest locomotive heist that ever was. Led by a civilian spy, a group of Union volunteers commandeered a locomotive engine to destroy the rail lines between Atlanta and Chattanooga. If successful, the raid would have successfully mangled the Confederacy’s supply lines beyond repair. But the raiders were wholly unprepared for the speed and determination of one slighted lo...
2023-07-0318 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 32: The Salem Witch TrialsWelcome to "Smarticus Tells History". In this episode, we embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind one of the most notorious chapters in American history. Join us as we examine the origins, the hysteria, the accused, and the aftermath of the Salem Witch Trials. Through insightful interviews, expert analysis, and riveting storytelling, we shed light on the mysterious circumstances that gripped a community and forever etched its name in infamy.Links: Recipe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiFWEB-FcAg&t=12sSupport our show here: https://www.pa...
2023-07-0333 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 33: Jack the SignalmanIn this episode of Smarticus Tells History, we delve into the incredible true story of Jack the Signalman, a chacma baboon who defied all odds to become a trusted employee of the South African Railways in the late 19th century. We discuss the remarkable journey of Jack, from his early days as a market trolley pusher to his role as a signalman assistant alongside his owner, James "Jumper" Wide.Thank you for listening to this episode of Smarticus Tells History. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review...
2023-07-0321 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 30: The Anglo-Zanzibar WarThere is no shortage of historical conflict to talk about, but only one war in known history started and ended on the same day. As a result of a jilted sultan-to-be calling a British bluff, the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896 was over in less than an hour. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Smarticus explains the complicated protectorate relationship that led to the British gaining control of the Zanzibari Sultanate and introduces you to a young heir to the throne who stared down the British Navy in his refusal to step aside. While ridiculous in its brevity, the...
2022-04-1112 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 29: Dublin Whiskey FireOn a summer night in 1875, more than a dozen Dubliners drank so much whiskey they all perished. But it wasn’t a special occasion, and none of them ordered a single dram from a pub. They were all causalities of the Dublin Whiskey Fire. On this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Marty tells us the unbelievable story of the most destructive fire in Dublin’s history, which started in a whiskey storehouse in The Liberties and nearly engulfed both a maternity hospital and a convent. He also examines the history of Ireland’s ties to alcohol and uncovers the tr...
2022-04-0412 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 28: KhutulunGenghis Khan is well known for being the most fearsome warrior in history, and for a good reason: his campaigns through Asia made the Mongol Empire the largest in the world. But few people know of his great-great-granddaughter, who accomplished a feat even her old grand-pops would have marveled at: protecting her independence by defeating every single suitor who dared challenge her to a wrestling match. In this installment of Smarticus Tells History, Marty introduces us to the Khutulun, the Mongolian wrestling princess.Highlights:
2022-03-2813 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 27: Einsteins Brain Most of us are well-acquainted with Einstein’s impact on both science and pop culture. E=MC2, the classic tongue-out photo, the Nobel Prize. But did you know that Einstein’s brain continued a remarkable journey long after his death? In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Marty shares the truly bizarre story of the theft of Einstein’s brain. Taken by an opportunistic pathologist during the autopsy, Einstein’s most valuable asset has spent the last nearly seven decades being sliced, diced, and shared among the scientific community. But will it ever reveal the secret to Einstein’s genius?H...
2022-03-2114 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 26: Napoleon Vs The BunniesNapoleon Bonaparte is widely remembered as one of the greatest military leaders of all time. A man with a genius mind, gift for rousing beaten troops, and unquenchable thirst for power, Napoleon helped secure the success of the French Revolution before instating himself as the new emperor. But one battle that didn’t make its way into many books is that of Bonaparte vs. the Bunnies, a surprising fight that unfolded during a gathering to celebrate the Treaty of Tilsit. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, our host tells us about the formidable ma...
2022-03-1414 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 25: Resusci AnnieNearly everyone goes through CPR training at some point. After an instructor walks you through the basics of compressions and breathing, you’re invited to try for yourself on a life-sized doll. But few people know this doll’s name is “Annie,” and her likeness is based on a 19th-century death mask of an unidentified drowning victim in Paris. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Marty walks us through the history of Resusci Annie, the most kissed girl in the world. Highlights: Resusci Annie is the gold-s...
2022-03-0714 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 24: The Mary CelesteThe Mary Celeste is one of the most enduring and intriguing maritime mysteries in history, and on this episode of Smaritcus Tells History, we tell you why. After setting out from New York with his wife and daughter, Captain Benjamin Briggs, his family and crew were never seen again. But his ship, Mary Celeste, was found off the coast of Portugal, still seaworthy and with no signs of invasion, illness, or disaster. Following a contentious salvage hearing, theories about the fate of Briggs and his crew ranged from sea monster to murder...
2022-02-2814 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 23: Haleys Comet Panic of 1910This week, we’re talking about Halley’s Comet Panic of 1910. Comets have long been seen as omens of disaster, bad luck, or death. Even with scientific advancements and solid historical proof that Halley’s Comet had passed Earth repeatedly without incident, its return in 1910 caused widespread panic. After a frightening prediction by French astronomer Camille Flammarion, people across the world prepared for the end of life as they knew it. From anti-comet pills to comet-proof umbrellas, people were willing to try just about anything to survive being consumed by the poisonous tail of the comet. ...
2022-02-2112 minSmarticus Tells HistoryEpisode 22: The Night Witches of WWIIThe Night Witches were a fierce group of Soviet Union women who wreaked havoc on the Germans with surprise attacks in World War II. The most amazing part of their story isn’t that the 1200 people running the regiment were all women. No, it's what they had to overcome to be able to fly into combat at all. Listen now to find out what those obstacles were and what creative tactics they came up with to get the name “The Night Witches.”If you would like to donate to the show to help make improv...
2022-02-1406 min