Explore every episode of the podcast Hidden History Happy Hour with Alex & Bryan
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Pains | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:24:42 | |
Alex and Bryan are back with two tremendous takes from royal history. A Crowning achievement. Sources:Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1
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| Naval Derring Do Part Deux | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:52:58 | |
The guys return with two crackin’ (or is that Kraken?) tales of bravery and heroism at sea, this time from the War of 1812 and World War 1. Sources:Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1
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| Col. John Spencer – on Ukraine, Urban Warfare and James Bond | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:36:43 | |
Bryan releases the bees on world renowned urban warfare expert Col. John Spencer (ret.). John tells a brand new and (almost) unbelievable story of the Battle of Mariupol, Ukraine and Bryan and John talk urban warfare and the power of storytelling for warfighters. And John settles the “Best James Bond” question once and for all. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them No True Glory: A Frontline Account of the Battle for Fallujah FOLLOW @denvercunning and @SpencerGuard for the best X Spaces. | |||
| Eugene Lazowski – How One Doctor Saved 8,000 Jews from the Nazis | 20 Nov 2023 | 00:56:31 | |
Just when we need them most: Two Holocaust Heroes. And some much-needed truth from Alex and Bryan. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Guides of Bala Hissar: Queen Victoria’s Frontier Force In The Second Afghan War | 30 Oct 2023 | 00:11:24 | |
Alex tells the story of the Siege of Bala Hissar, and the fort’s defenders – who were faithful even unto death. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Eunice Carter: The Woman Who Brought Down Lucky Luciano | 09 Oct 2023 | 00:51:32 | |
Fan favorite guest Willard Foxton rejoins the guys for the second episode of Season Two of the Hidden History Happy Hour for an inspirational and rollicking tale of the first female African-American prosecutor who incidentally brought down “Dutch” Schultz and Lucky Luciano and ushered in the wiretapping era of law enforcement. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Ron Hockey: The Unsung War Hero | 18 Sep 2023 | 00:21:55 | |
The Hidden History Happy Hour launches Season Two with the heroic tale of RAF Pilot Ron Hockey and the guys discuss the legal, moral, and ethical issues around the agonizing decision to carry out a targeted killing – even of one the most evil Nazis of them all. Check out our new look and welcome to our many new fans and a heartfelt thanks to fhos of you who have been with us since the beginning. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Conspiracy: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0266425/ Anthropoid: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4190530/ (starring Cillian Murphy of Oppenheimer) | |||
| No Wings But Maybe Extraterrestrial Body Parts | 28 Aug 2023 | 00:21:18 | |
Alex recounts the harrowing heroism of the US Marine Pilot who rode the thunder and the boys return to one of their favorite subjects: UFOs. Testimony in US Congress: US Government is hiding alien biomass. Whaaaat? Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them https://www.amazon.com/Flying-saucer-pilgrimage-amazing-research/dp/B0007DOAAG | |||
| Release the Bees! | 17 Aug 2023 | 00:24:54 | |
A Must WATCH. Listening alone will not give the full experience for this one. How I learned to stop worrying and love the honey. The boys cover the weapons spectrum from micro (bees) to extinction-threatening (nuclear weapons). And watch Bryan faithfully recreate a bespoke cocktail –“The Oppi” — as mixed by the father of the atomic bomb Robert Oppenheimer himself. A genius on many levels. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| The Patron Saint of Booze | 09 Aug 2023 | 00:14:22 | |
A new Alex yarn you CANNOT FIND ANYWHERE BUT HERE (including Twitter (X)) and the guys wax not-so-eloquent about the pros and cons of temperance. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Dive! Dive! Dive! And an Old Bet Settled (Spoiler: B was right) | 30 Jul 2023 | 01:34:18 | |
Alex and Bryan hear an (almost) unbelievable tale of derring-do under the Arctic Ice from Alex’s friend – and former British Navy Submarine Officer Andrew Storey, who also settles a long-running dispute between the guys. A long episode but well worth it. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| H4 Goes to Hollywood – Live | 14 Jul 2023 | 00:37:19 | |
In the last of four live episodes recorded in the Summer of 2022 at NYC’s fabulous Von Bar, the guys chat up the team from the award-winning new film Ramona at Midlife and Alex has an original take on Punk Royal (and inspirational Mom) Patti Smith. Don’t Miss This One! Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them https://www.ramonaatmidlife.com | |||
| H4: The Musical | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:31:38 | |
H4 The Musical: The guys find the lost Brandenburg Concertos and hear true modern musical tails from record producer and conservationist Scott Bledsoe. Sources:Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1 | |||
| Two Lessons From France that Russia and Ukraine Should Hear | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:31:47 | |
Alex tells “The Day of the Tiles” from his first book and his latest story about Napoleon and the Prussians. The guys give their take on mutiny in Russia and perhaps the beginning of the end of a mad reign there. And Bryan contends that his summer location s the inspiration for the town in It’s a Wonderful Life. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| What If?: The Accidental Shot that Might Have Prevented World War One | 23 May 2023 | 00:41:24 | |
The guys tell Alex’s newest story, about Archduke Ferdinand, Lady Victoria, and an anonymous gun loader who might have prevented World War One. And the OG of the OG (Alex’s first Twitter story): How Sweden’s King to this day started with a Frenchman’s errand of mercy. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them https://veteransdefenseproject.org
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| We Love Ike – and the New Play About Him You MUST See | 10 May 2023 | 00:58:40 | |
In a show of bipartisanship and historical appreciation, Alex & Bryan interview the playwright, producer/director, and star of Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground. Also, Bryan overindulges in Ike’s favorite scotch whisky. You’re Welcome. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them
JOHN RUBINSTEIN (Actor) plays President Dwight D. Eisenhower in the new one man play Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground. This play allows John to join his extraordinary theatrical skills with his passion for helping create a better future. And his ability to embody General Eisenhower, commanding the stage in moments ranging from the pointedly political to the intimate and personal, has already begun to resonate with audiences—inspiring them to think and question, moving them from laughter to tears, and leading them to leave the theatre with optimism. John’s career has been varied and always brilliant. He originated the title role in the Broadway musical Pippin, directed by Bob Fosse, and won the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for his performance in Children of a Lesser God. Other Broadway appearances include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Ragtime, Hurlyburly, M. Butterfly, The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial (Drama Desk nomination), Get- ting Away with Murder, Fools, Love Letters, and the 2013 Pippin revival. He appeared off-Broadway in Counsellor-at-Law (2005 Lucille Lortel Award, Outer Critics’ Circle and Drama League nominations), Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, Urban Blight, Cabaret Verboten, and Morning’s at Seven. Regionally: Wicked in LA, and the international tour of the Pippin revival. He starred in the TV series, “Family” (Emmy nomination), and “Crazy Like A Fox,” and over 300 episodes. Films include “Being the Ricardos,” “Hello, I Must Be Going,” “21 Grams,” “Red Dragon,” “The Boys from Brazil,” “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Daniel, Zachariah,” and “Get- ting Straight.” He directed the world premiere of A. R. Gurney’s The Old Boy, and Counsellor-at-Law, Company, Brigadoon, Macbeth, The Three Sisters, Phantasie, Nightingale, The Rivals, A Little Night Music, Guys and Dolls, Into The Woods, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, and The Rover. He composes film and TV music (“Jeremiah Johnson,” “The Candidate.” “The Dollmaker,” “China Beach,” among others), hosted two classical music radio programs, played keyboards in a rock band, and has re- corded over 200 audiobooks, most numerously Jonathan Kellerman’s Alex Delaware series of Los Angeles crime novels.
RICHARD HELLESEN (Playwright) is the author of numerous plays and musicals for adult and young audiences. His work has been seen at the Denver Center, South Coast Repertory, Los Angeles Repertory Company, Sacramento Theatre Company, Geva, Florida Stage, Gretna Theatre, Sundance Children’s Theatre, Imagination Stage, People’s Light & Theatre, City Theatre in Miami, B Street Theatre, and Ford’s Theatre in Washington DC, where he is an Associate Artist. He has received playwriting awards from the National Theatre Conference, the Beverly Hills Theatre Guild, the Philadelphia Festival Theatre for New Plays, and PEN USA-West; his two-dozen short plays include five finalists for the Actors Theatre of Louisville Heideman Award. A member of the Dramatists Guild, he has twice been Playwright-in-Residence at the William Inge Center for the Arts in Kansas.
PETER ELLENSTEIN (Director) is Producing Artistic Director of the New Los Angeles Repertory Company. He is a multi-award-winning director, producer, new play midwife, and educator, whose work has been seen all over the country. For thirteen years, Peter was Artistic Director of the William Inge Center for the Arts in Kansas, served sev- en years as Producing Director of the original Los Angeles Repertory Company, for whom he direct- ed the LA Premiere of Assassins, Odets’ Rocket to the Moon, and many other acclaimed productions. He was Interim Artistic Director of both the Gretna Theatre in Pennsylvania, and the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre at the University of Miami in Florida. Peter has a decades long artistic relationship with Richard Hellesen and has directed the premieres of many of Richard Hellesen’s plays. | |||
| Making History: The Upcoming Feature Film About the 1970 Kent State University Shootings with Filmmaker Karen Slade | 28 Apr 2023 | 01:09:22 | |
Karen Slade rockets to the top echelon of our favorite guests as she joins Alex & Bryan for an extended discussion of the 1970 Kent State shootings, the 60s, moral responsibility for immoral government acts, and the extreme danger of governments aligning opposing armed forces in close proximity. Timely? Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Our Fiftieth Anniversary Extravaganza! | 15 Apr 2023 | 00:47:06 | |
Alex and Bryan celebrate the 50th Episode of the Hidden History Happy Hour with behind-the-scenes discussion of your favorite episodes and, as you requested, tell a true crime story. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them A Note on a Modern Spanish Lottery Scam – Beware! Links to the stories we mentioned: John-Baptiste Bernadotte (Lessons From History, v1, p1) Grizzly Goings On (Al Packer – Denver Live Episode) The Gregory Peck Story Bryan Forgot to Tell: According to Robert Mitchum, during the filming of the final fight scene between him and Gregory Peck, Peck once accidentally punched him for real. Mitchum, knowing that Peck didn’t mean to and ever the professional, refused to break character and continued filming the scene. However, upon entering his trailer, Mitchum said that he “literally collapsed” due to the impact of the punch and said that he felt it for days afterwards. Mitchum said, “I don’t feel sorry for anyone dumb enough who picks a fight with him (Peck).” | |||
| Heroic Ukrainian Resistance and Russian Nuclear Threat Updates, Alex’s Grandfather and Other War Heroes | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:53:10 | |
Alex is Back for a very special episode where the guys talk about Alex’s Grandfather’s WW2 heroics, along with leadership tales of Eisenhower and General Jim “Chaos” Mattis. Check out our show notes for a treasured Deane family keepsake and another opportunity to get Lessons From History and More Lessons From History. Father’s Day is coming soon! Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Divine Science: Finding Reason at the Heart of Faith Photo of Alex’s grandfather’s wings and his letter: It says: Dear Alex, These wings are the wings of the Army Air Corps (of which the Glider Pilot Regiment were part.) I was awarded these wings in July 1943 and wore them to 1) go to France on D Day (actually the night before of the 5th / 6th June 1944g 2) go to Arnhem in September 1944 3) to prisoner of war camp in October 1944 4) then back to England in June 1945 So they are 45 years old in July of this year – I have kept them all this time, so I hope you will also keep them. Love Grandad. | |||
| Ancient Aliens – What Me Worry? | 23 Mar 2023 | 00:44:05 | |
With Alex on assignment, Bryan and Ancient Aliens Physicist Michael Dennin discuss all manner of…well, you’ll just have to watch. #ancientaliens #ufo #history Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Noted physicist says string theory suggests we’re all living in God’s matrix Fascinating Gadgets, Gizmos, and Gear Based Technology podcast “Divine Science: Finding Reason at the Heart of Faith” Michael Dennin’s Website: https://www.denninmichael.com/ Michael’s Twitter and Linkedin: @denninmichael | |||
| Cheer(io)s LIVE From London, with UFOs, Spacemen, Heroic Girls & Spy Balloons | 01 Mar 2023 | 00:31:54 | |
A good time was had by all as Alex, Bryan & H4Fans record a LIVE episode in the wonderful High Timber restaurant in London. Learn of the amazing adventure of Apollo 16, the Girl Who Fell From the Sky (hat tip to @SilverAlso), hear Bryan‘s “shi’y, Bri’ish” accent (hat tip to Spirited), and watch the guys enjoy a LOT of Alex’s wedding vino. And please disregard Bryan’s repeated reference to Episode 48 as this is actually Episode 47. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| The Ancestors Sing with Terry Franklin and Jeffrey Moline And that Spy Balloon | 09 Feb 2023 | 00:38:33 | |
A multimedia extravaganza this week as fan favorite (and our first-ever guest) perform their new spoken-word/musical version of Lucy Sutton’s story. And hear Bryan’s take, as a former CIA officer, on the recent Chinese Spy Balloon incident and Alex’s thoughts on the politics of it all. Remember: Join us in London 23 February. Cheers. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Bending the Arc of History | Terrence Franklin | TEDxDavenport Hidden History Happy Hour LIVE in London! on Feb 23 at 8:15 PM GMT | |||
| The SECOND Unluckiest Ship in WW2 | 02 Feb 2023 | 00:16:08 | |
With gratitude for Germany in joining the US and UK in support of Ukraine with tanks, we even the score from last week with a US Navy ship that almost altered history by accident. Seriously, folks, you can’t make this up. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Hidden History Happy Hour LIVE in London! on Feb 23 at 8:15 PM GMT | |||
| 33 Months in a North Korean Prison Camp | 13 May 2024 | 00:38:02 | |
Alex & Bryan bring tales of gallantry and privation in a North Korean prison camp and of “Marie Claire,” heroic WW2 spy who helped 100 downed British airmen escape home to fight again. And the scandal of the Patagonian Toothfish. Sources:Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1 | |||
| Don’t Punch Yourself in the Face…and other Lessons From History | 26 Jan 2023 | 00:26:19 | |
Alex & Bryan, continuing the return to their boozy roots, tell two stories from the “phony war” before World War II, including a remarkable feat of destruction from air to sea (and not by the enemy). And why Democracies will win the existential struggle of our time. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Back to the Booze | 19 Jan 2023 | 00:35:26 | |
In honor of today’s terrific tale of Ernest Hemingway’s lesser-known brother from More Lessons of History, the guys debunk a Hemingway drinking myth and introduce fans to a Hemingway-favorite cocktail mix. On a serious note, Alex and Bryan touch on the causes of suicide and the modern availability of resources to get help for depression and other mental illness (see show notes for a few). And, of course, Pirates. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them https://www.eater.com/drinks/2015/12/9/9880450/hemingway-mojito-havana-myth Gregorio’s Rx 1 1/2 ounces Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker with ice and shake. Strain into a glass filled with ice. Add sparkling water to shaker. Swirl and pour into drink. Garnish with a mint sprig. | |||
| Ronald Reagan & Bill Clinton in Retrospect | 12 Jan 2023 | 00:14:34 | |
Bryan and guest co-host Nir Yarden tell Alex’s Ronald Reagan story and talk leadership and decisiveness – and have a guffaw or two (laughing with Alex not at him). Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| High Score | 30 Dec 2022 | 00:07:12 | |
Maurice Flitcroft enters the 1976 golf Open, and posts a score that will never be beaten. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Ghosts of the Holy Land | 24 Dec 2022 | 00:34:49 | |
Bryan and special guest host Nir Yarden discuss Bryan’s recent trip to the Middle East, including a new, true tale of “The Ghosts of Amona” and debate Middle East peace, Russia/Ulraine, and other issues of grave importance, such as whether Die Hard actually is the best Christmas movie. . For more Nir Yarden, check out Hidden History Happy Hour Episode 22, here: https://www.hiddenhistoryhappyhour.com/2022/06/26/the-greatest-escape-youve-never-heard-of/ Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| English Legionnaire | 15 Dec 2022 | 00:08:35 | |
Alex tells the story of Simon Murray, the Englishman who ran away to join the French Foreign Legion when he didn’t get the girl – and was part of the putative coup against de Gaulle. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Hidden HistorTHREE: 3 Great Stories for the Price of Two | 09 Dec 2022 | 00:27:20 | |
For their second holiday, hidden history happy hour, Alex and Bryan, tell of a rollicking, rugby reunion, George Washington’s horses, and…finally – pirates! Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Our Saddest Story…and Fútbol | 01 Dec 2022 | 00:19:42 | |
Alex returns to the chair and tells the saddest story across all of his work, but it does have a hero. And a zany, remarkable but true Fútbol story to boot. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| “Die Hard(s)”: It’s Not Just for Christmas Anymore | 10 Nov 2022 | 00:38:37 | |
As we anxiously await Alex Deane’s Return to the Hidden History Happy Hour, fan favorite Myke Cole returns to provide an actual historian’s assessment of Alex’s Lessons From History Chapter 19 about one of the most heroic veterans of the British military service in the Peninsular War. And Myke and Bryan reminisce about their shared CBS TV experience (at least as long as Bryan can remember the thread of the conversation). Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Pre-Order Link to More Lessons From History Battle of Albuera Painting Paul Rudd on Venti: Space Pants: | |||
| Hark! The Three Harolds: The First Battle of Stamford Bridge – With Myke Cole | 03 Nov 2022 | 00:55:52 | |
Bryan and Special Guest Co-Host Myke Cole discuss the decisive pre-Battle of Hastings. And an update on Bryan’s Not-Yet-Read Book Club October 2022 selection. Back to the show’s roots, Bryan’s storytelling becomes affected by his enjoyment of bourbon. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Castle Itter: The Weirdest Battle in History | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:40:09 | |
Castles and Nazis and Grand Slams, Oh My! The guys tell the story of the last castle and strangest battle of WW2. Prepare to suspend disbelief. Sources:Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1 | |||
| Tales from Down Under | 20 Oct 2022 | 00:08:17 | |
Alex tells the story of the Duumvirate, Gough Whitlam’s groundbreaking Labor government of 1972 – and then tells some rude jokes. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Risking Armageddon in Ukraine, ½ a Dead Sheep, Alex & Bryan’s Acting Debut, and Bryan’s New Book Club | 13 Oct 2022 | 01:03:50 | |
Two new H4 features in a long – but well-worth-it – episode as the guys provide a sober(ish) assessment of the current nuclear war risks in Ukraine. Lightening up the mood, they talk “Creative Differences” – a cross-Atlantic theater spat which ended in casualties and ½ a sheep being flung onstage. Alex and Bryan also share a dramatic reading illustrating why it’s not a good idea to put troops on the streets of a democracy to conduct law-and-order. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Pre-Order Link to More Lessons From History https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6340730/ https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/333/10 https://russiavsworld.org/a-list-of-oligarchs-and-putin-critics-found-dead-since-ukraine-war/ https://nypost.com/2020/06/11/seattle-police-chief-leaving-the-precinct-was-not-my-decision/ | |||
| The Importance of Irrationality | 06 Oct 2022 | 00:10:59 | |
Two stories in this episode, in which Alex is flying solo. First, a cautionary tale from the Punic Wars about ignoring irrationality, and paying attention to chickens. Second, a pub quiz question with a story about daddy issues attached. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Hypnotism, Death Rays, & Chess – Oh My! | 22 Sep 2022 | 00:55:57 | |
Back on the air after taking a respectful pause for the mourning and funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Alex Deane & Bryan Cunningham discuss one of the most amazing – but “true” – stories in all of #DeaneHistory. Take it from them, this almost unbelievable tale out of Lessons from History is sure to make your jaw drop! They also discuss the impact of the British monarchy’s transition to King Charles III and Bryan’s ignorance of chess. Cheers, and welcome back to Hidden History Happy Hour! Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/20/politics/cia-director-havana-syndrome-india-trip/index.html Alex plays chess with GM Raymond Keene. Learn how he got on in the podcast… | |||
| A Tale of Two Bushes (one you’ll guess, one you won’t) | 01 Sep 2022 | 00:17:48 | |
Alex and Bryan each have a George Bush story: first about one of the most qualified – and decent – modern US Presidents and then about an early Washington State settler who embodied the American Frontier Dream but, as a black American born free in a slave state, was not recognized until nearly two centuries later. Mob Story Bonus: Bodies literally rising from lakes – in barrels. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| It Could Have Happened That Way (Part 1) | 25 Aug 2022 | 00:27:11 | |
The guys launch a new H4 Feature in which they discuss known history stories but speculate on potential alternative explanations. First up: A little known “fact” about the infamous Lord Haw Haw, the WW2 British turncoat propagandist. Next, hear about Jan Masaryk, including the 2021 “official” findings of his suspicious “suicide.” That one’s an update to Lessons From History. Check it out and let us know how you like a Thursday drop. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Gordievsky and Ames: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oleg_Gordievsky | |||
| Flying Saucers, Foo Fighters, and You | 18 Aug 2022 | 01:00:20 | |
In the first of many live Twitter Spaces episodes, the guys talk Bryan’s personal experience with flying saucers and (the OG) Foo Fighters and, for the first time, chat live with their fans. And Alex tells the amazing true tale of entire European towns on collective, unplanned acid trips. #cowsonacid
Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Flying saucer pilgrimage: The story of an amazing private research which took two year’s time and over 23,000 miles of travel, https://a.co/d/i98ot8v https://www.c-span.org/video/?520133-1/hearing-government-investigation-ufos | |||
| Harrowing Happenings and Heroism in the Air | 09 Aug 2022 | 00:27:03 | |
A flight crew doesn’t leave their comrade (1/2 out the window of a jumbo jet in flight) behind and a heroic WW2 pilot’s luck finally runs out. Great stories, but make sure you book all your airline tickets before listening. Don’t forget to join us for our first ever live and interactive episode on Twitter Spaces on August 11th. Click here to set a reminder. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Pre-order Alex Deane’s upcoming book “More Lessons from History: Uncovering the colourful characters of the past” here. | |||
| First Thing We Do, Let’s Kill All the Lawyers | 02 Aug 2022 | 00:46:06 | |
Our recovering lawyers discuss two historical lawyers: the only UK Prime Minister ever assassinated and the US President elected by a vote of 8-5 (no zeroes missing). Keep an eye on our Twitter account @HistoryHrPod for information on how to join our first ever live episode on Twitter Spaces. Audience participation is encouraged! Correction: BC has NOT been in politics for “half a century.” Maffs Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them Genealogy Geeks: Related to John Bellingham? Let us know. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sir_William_Bellingham,_1st_Baronet https://www.cnn.com/2021/02/01/us/oregon-decriminalize-drugs-is-law-trnd/index.html https://www.allmovie.com/movie/v397868 Partisanship and Violence: Our survey found that Republicans and Democrats are not only extremely distrustful of each other, but that majorities believe that people on the other side of the aisle are immoral and “want to harm people who disagree with them.” Sixty-three percent of Republicans say Democrats are a threat to the country, while 67% of Democrats believe the same about the opposing party. While each side views the other as similarly threatening, Republicans rank “extremists in the Democratic Party” as the most pressing threat facing the country, while Democrats believe the top three threats, in descending order, are Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and extremists in the Republican Party. Those on the right appear more likely to approve of political violence. When asked whether they believed that “some violence might be necessary to protect the country from radical extremists,” 41% of Republicans agreed, compared to 34% of Democrats and 29% of independents. Over half of Republicans say the country seems headed toward a civil war in the near future, compared to 39% of Democrats. While most Americans reject antidemocratic actions and political violence, a substantial minority — and, sometimes, a majority — do not. | |||
| Ukraine Groundtruth Episode: Programmers By Day, Warriors By Night | 19 Jul 2022 | 00:57:26 | |
Alex and Bryan are joined by Alan Harlan, CEO of a software company in Ukraine, details the fascinating, real-time, true story of heroic Ukrainians who program software by day and at 5 o’clock put on uniform and pick up a rifle. And Alex tells the heroic, tragic, but ultimately inspirational story of the East German border guard who leaped to freedom from Soviet Communist totalitarianism but never found his own peace. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them How You Can Help https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/unicef-children-crossfire-ukraine-crisis/39542?form=FUNKBHMZQDQ | |||
| Walter Bromley-Davenport: The Loudest MP in History | 25 Mar 2024 | 00:32:41 | |
Bryan and newly-minted House of Commons Candidate Alex Deane tell two (of course) legislative stories. Hear of a “codger” MP who literally kicked the wrong bum and a short-lived Australian Prime Minister who committed the unpardonable political gaffe of telling the truth.
Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them – https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-History-Hidden-heroes-villains/dp/1785907107/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JMRVEUAT1M0T&keywords=alex+deane&qid=1656264679&sprefix=alex+deane%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1 More Lessons From History – https://www.amazon.com/More-Lessons-History-Uncovering-characters-ebook/dp/B0B5YRMCQ7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=209NY0DLAJXC&keywords=more+lessons+from+history&qid=1662044950&sprefix=more+lessons+from+history%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1 https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/peace-arch-historical-state-park | |||
| Two Ways to Rule Your Own Realm (Neither Recommended) | 12 Jul 2022 | 00:23:52 | |
No guests this week, fans, just pure, undiluted H4 with Alex and Bryan. Enjoy the stories of two self-proclaimed monarchs in two different centuries and very different realms. With Daddy Issues. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Gun Rights, Modern Military Mishaps, The Dog’s Bollocks, & Special Guest Professor Buzzkill | 03 Jul 2022 | 01:03:33 | |
Phenomenal Historian Professor Buzzkill joins Alex and Bryan to discuss a modern military missile mishap, debunk some myths and teach us much that we didn’t know about the history (Cross-Atlantic at that) of the National Rifle Association. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| The Greatest Escape You’ve Never Heard Of | 26 Jun 2022 | 01:10:16 | |
WW2 heroism takes center stage as Alex tells of The Georgian Uprising and Special Guest Nir Yarden shares with our spellbound NYC audience the unbelievable true story of his father’s escape from Nazis, Soviets, Russians and the British in Palestine (twice) – all by age 17. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them | |||
| Special “Haunted” Hidden History Happy Hour | 19 Jun 2022 | 00:44:15 | |
The guys take in ghost stories from New York’s most haunted street at the Von Bar (the official bar of the Hidden History Happy Hour) and discuss 295 Bowery – the location reputedly with the most suicides in a single building in New York history. Sources: Lessons From History: Hidden heroes and villains of the past, and what we can learn from them
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