We're Not Experts - Two Amateurs Muddling Through History
A laid back history podcast where we explore everything from ancient empires to awkward royal scandals. Each episode, we pick a topic, dig into the weird, wild, and sometimes world-changing details, and try to make sense of it all, without taking ourselves too seriously. Whether you’re a history newbie or just here for the strange facts, come and tune in!
Droppings & Doom: The Great Horse Manure Crisis of 1894
Two keen but thoroughly amateur historians saddle up to revisit the infamous Great Horse Manure Crisis of 1894. With more wit than scholarship, they trot through the muck of Victorian London’s woes, unearthing how a city almost drowned in horse droppings — and what it all tells us about progress, panic, and the peculiarities of history.
The Great Stink of 1858: The Crisis That Changed London Forever
Our two amateur historians are back, and this time they are stepping back to the sweltering summer of 1858, when London was brought to a very smelly standstill by the infamous Great Stink. In this episode, they will explore the over flowing sewers, panicked politicians, and the rather fragrant spark that pushed the city towards modern sanitation.
Expect history with a whiff of humour as they uncover how a stink changed London forever!
Alan Turing: Architect of the Digital Age
In this episode, the usual two hosts have been dispensed with and replaced by Artificial Intelligence as we look at the life and works of Alan Turing. From his groundbreaking theory of the Turing Machine and his pivotal role in cracking the Enigma code to his later persecution and enduring legacy, we explore the extraordinary mind who built the foundation for the digital world we live in today.
Researched, written and narrated by AI to show the strengths, and a few limitations, of modern technology.
I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue: A Comic Legacy
In this episode James takes a cheerful stroll through the history of the much-loved radio panel show I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue. From its anarchic beginnings in the early 1970s to its enduring status as the “antidote to panel games,” James shares amusing facts, behind-the-scenes snippets, and his own fond memories of the show's wit and absurdity.
The Rendlesham Forest Incident: Is this Britain's Roswell?
Join two curious amateur historians as they swap theories, share laughs, and delve into the mysterious goings-on of the Rendlesham Forest incident. From UFO sightings to strange lights in the trees, they explore it all with a blend of intrigue, humour, and a dash of scepticism.
Claude Cahun & Marcel Moore: Artists of Resistance
In this episode, our two amateur historians explore the remarkable lives of Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore – a fearless duo of artists, lovers, and resistance fighters. From surrealist self-portraits to daring acts of defiance against the Nazis, we uncover how these creative rebels used art as a weapon and identity as a statement. Expect fascinating stories, a touch of humour, and plenty of admiration for these unforgettable pioneers.
In this episode, two amateur historians dive beak-first into one of the most bizarre chapters of Australian history: the Great Emu War of 1932. Yes, it really happened—and yes, the emus won. With plenty of laughs, questionable military strategy, and some surprisingly serious takeaways, we unpack how a bunch of oversized birds outwitted the Australian army. Perfect for fans of weird history, casual banter, and the kind of story that makes you say, “Wait, what?!”
Ever wondered what life was actually like inside a Victorian workhouse? Spoiler: it wasn’t exactly cosy. In this episode, our two amateur historians lift the lid on the daily grind, grim meals, and strict rules that shaped life behind those infamous doors. From workhouse uniforms to gruelling routines, we explore the reality of an institution designed to be more punishment than support—sprinkled, of course, with our usual mix of banter, curiosity, and a dash of dark humour.
Join our two amateur historians as they take a wander through the history of the workhouse—where poverty met paperwork, and things rarely ended well. From its rise as a so-called solution to society’s problems, to its eventual decline, they chat through the highs (not many) and lows (plenty), all with a dose of humour, a few dodgy facts, and the usual back-and-forth. Grab a cuppa and join us as we poke around the past—no poor law knowledge required!
In this episode, two amateur historians discuss the strange and snowy mystery of the Devil’s Hoofprints of 1855. After a heavy snowfall blanketed Devon, eerie hoof-like marks appeared overnight—stretching for miles across roofs, rivers, and fields. Was it a case of mass hysteria, a rogue animal... or something more sinister? Join us as we explore one of Victorian England’s most curious unexplained events, with plenty of theories and a touch of light-hearted banter.
Albert Cashier: Civil War Soldier
In this episode, two amateur historians delve into the remarkable life of Albert Cashier — a Civil War soldier who defied the expectations of 19th-century America. With curiosity, insight, and a touch of banter, they explore Albert's time in the Union Army, his post-war life, and how his story challenges our understanding of gender and identity in history. Perfect for fans of untold historical stories, LGBTQ+ history, and the American Civil War.
The Industrial Revolution: Part 3
In this episode, two amateur historians dive into the whirlwind world of life in Britain after the Industrial Revolution. From smoky cities to social shifts, they explore how steam power, railways, and factories reshaped everyday life—from the rise of the working class to the invention of the weekend. Expect lively banter, curious facts, and a few laughs as they uncover how Victorian innovation changed not just the economy, but everything from fashion to family life. Tune in for a light-hearted yet informative look at the era that paved the way for the modern world.
The Industrial Revolution: Part 2
In this episode, our two amateur historians fire up the engines (metaphorically) and take you on a whirlwind tour through the Industrial Revolution. From spinning jennies to steam trains, coal mines to canals, they explore the wild inventions, bold ideas, and questionable hygiene that powered Britain into a new age. Expect laughs, lighthearted learning, and just enough historical detail to impress your nan.
The Industrial Revolution: Part 1
Join two enthusiastic amateur historians as they bumble through Britain before the Industrial Revolution — a time of mud, manual labour, and excellent hats. In this episode, they explore what everyday life was really like when "Wi-Fi" meant "wife by the fire" and your daily step count came from chasing your dinner. Expect quirky facts, curious tales, and just enough historical accuracy to keep the time-travelling police off their backs. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a reminder that life was once both harder and somehow sillier.
The 1969 Football War: El Salvador v Honduras
In this episode, two amateur historians unpack the dramatic events of the 1969 Football War — a brief but intense conflict between El Salvador and Honduras sparked during a World Cup qualifier. Mixing history with humour, they explore how tensions on the pitch escalated into a real-life war, shedding light on the deeper political and social issues behind the headlines. Perfect for fans of football, history, or bizarre true stories you won’t hear in school!
In this episode, our two amateur historians wade into the wild and wonderfully doomed world of the Darien Scheme – Scotland’s bold (and very expensive) attempt to set up a colony in Panama in the late 1690s. Expect tropical dreams, financial disasters, and a healthy dose of hindsight-fuelled head-shaking, as they unravel how an entire nation's future was almost sunk in the swampy heat of Central America. Grab your compass and your bug spray – this one's a bumpy ride!
West Auckland F.C. and the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy
In this episode, two amateur historians explore the incredible true story of West Auckland F.C.
A team of miners who defied the odds to win the Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy, often dubbed the first unofficial World Cup. With their trademark mix of curiosity and humour, they uncover how a humble Northern football club ended up representing England and beating some of Europe’s finest, all on a shoestring budget and a whole lot of grit.
Blazing Through History: The Great Fire of London 1666
Join two amateur historians as they take a crackling stroll through the smoke and chaos of the Great Fire of London. With some dry humour and the occasional mangled pronunciation thrown in, they delve into how a small spark on Pudding Lane set the city ablaze and reshaped London forever.
From Samuel Pepys’ diary entries to dubious fire safety measures (or lack thereof), this episode explores the fiery drama of 1666 with equal parts fascination and deadpan commentary. Perfect for history lovers who like their disasters historic and their humour bone-dry.
In this episode, our two amateur historians tackle the wonderfully weird case of the Dodleston Messages - a tale involving a haunted BBC Micro, time travel via word processor, and a bloke from the 1500s who somehow mastered digital chat. Expect wild theories, and a timeline more tangled than a plate of spaghetti.
Warning: side effects may include confusion, mild paranoia, and a nap halfway through, because yes, it’s that long. Perfect for insomniacs and fans of baffling British mysteries alike!
Bring Our Your Dead: The Great Plague of London 1665
Ready to jump into 1665 without needing a time machine or a biohazard suit? In this episode, our two favourite amateur historians (emphasis on amateur) tackle the Great Plague of London—because nothing says “lighthearted banter” like bubonic death and 17th-century sanitation!
Join us as we unpack how fleas, rats, and questionable medical advice combined to turn London into a real-life horror story. From plague doctors with beaky masks to some truly terrible health tips, we separate the facts from the filthy fiction—with a few laughs along the way.
Whether you're a history buff or just here for the plague puns, you’ll come away entertained, mildly educated, and very grateful for modern plumbing.
In this intriguing episode, we delve into the mysterious disappearance of the lighthouse keepers on Eilean Mòr—one of Scotland’s most puzzling unsolved cases. With curiosity and a dash of humour, we explore the theories, folklore, and eerie clues behind the 1900 mystery that still baffles experts today. Tune in for a lighthearted look at a dark tale from the windswept Flannan Isles!
When Sneezing Was Deadly: The Black Death of 1348
In this lively episode of our history podcast, we delve into the murky world of the Black Death of 1348. With a mix of curiosity and dry wit, we explore how the plague swept through medieval Europe, changing society forever. From bizarre remedies to questionable hygiene, nothing is off-limits in this engaging and surprisingly relatable chat. Whether you're a history buff or just in it for the morbid tales, this episode brings the past to life—with a good dose of British charm. Perfect for fans of history with a humorous twist!
The Night the Earth Stood Still (for six minutes)
In this curious episode, we tune in to the bizarre 1977 Southern Television broadcast hack, when an unknown voice claiming to be from the "Ashtar Galactic Command" interrupted the evening news across parts of the UK. Was it a prank, a protest, or something more otherworldly? Join us as we explore one of Britain's most mysterious and mischievous TV moments that left viewers baffled and conspiracy theories buzzing.
Pitchforks and Protest - The Peasants Revolt of 1381
From Wat Tyler’s fiery speeches to the surprising role of a teenage king, this episode blends fascinating facts with a good dose of humour. Whether you're a history buff or just here for the banter, you'll love this lively look at one of England’s most rebellious moments. Tune in now for a cheerful chinwag about medieval mayhem!
Operation Mincemeat - The Man Who Never Was
In this gripping episode, we get stuck into the brilliantly bonkers tale of Operation Mincemeat, the top-secret WWII deception that fooled Hitler and helped turn the tide of the war. Join us as we unpack how a dead body, a briefcase full of fake intel, and a dash of British eccentricity led to one of the most daring wartime hoaxes ever pulled off. If you're into clever cloak-and-dagger stories from history, this one's not to be missed!
The Most Ridiculous Fashion Trends in History
Join us as we discuss the bizarre, baffling and downright bonkers side of style. From powdered wigs the size of small ponies to skyscraper shoes, this episode is unpicking the threads of fashion's most questionable moments. Whether you're a style guru or just here for the giggles, this is your front-row seat to the wardrobe disasters that made history.
Confess Witch! Matthew Hopkins - Witchfinder General
In this episode, we dive broomstick first into the eerie world of Matthew Hopkins, England's infamous Witchfinder General. With a mix of curious banter, historical sleuthing, and just the right amount of cackling, we unearth the strange, spooky, and often absurd tales of 17th century witch hunts, and most importantly, attempt to answer the question; Who gave this guy a badge, and why was everyone so scared of a few odd cats and herbal tea?
Guess Who Started a Civil War?
Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of the English Civil War without the dusty textbooks or fancy degrees. From battles and be-headings to big egos and bad decisions, Guess Who Started a Civil War breaks down the drama of the 1600s with curiosity, laughs, and the occasional confused tangent. If you like history with a bit of banter, this one's for you.
Bonus Episodes (Shorts)
Gunfight at the O.K. Corral - A Short by James
Saddle up for a bite sized blast of Wild West drama as James unpacks the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral. In just five minutes, James explores the story of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the 30 seconds of gunfire that became legend in US history.
Hero of Alexandria - A Short by James
Discover the fascinating world of ancient innovation in this short podcast episode about Hero of Alexandria, the brilliant Greek engineer and inventor. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike, this bite-sized podcast explores Hero’s remarkable inventions—including the world’s first steam turbine —and his lasting influence on science and engineering. Tune in now to learn more about one of antiquity’s greatest minds in under five minutes.
The Honeypot Lane Murders - A Short by James
In this gripping short podcast episode, James delves into the chilling case of the Honeypot Lane murders in Basildon, Essex, a crime that shocked the country.
WW2 Series
This series focuses on the many different aspects of World War II, from the major battles and political shifts to the everyday lives of those who lived through it.
Evacuation by Norman Bambridge & Sarah Smith
(narrated by Sarah Smith)
This podcast delves into the strategies of evacuation throughout the war, including the evacuation of children from major cities in Britain to protect them from bombings and the mass relocations of civilians in high risk areas.
Rationing by Sarah Smith
This podcast looks at systems implemented by the British government to manage the scarce food resources during WW2 and how these strategies impletemented daily life.
Surviving the Blitz by Norman Bambrige & Sarah Smith
(narrated by Sarah Smith)
A gripping podcast exploring the harrowing experiences and remarkable resilience of those who lived through the Blitz.
Interview Series
In this podcast series, we sit down with local folks from all walks of life to hear their stories, memories, and unique perspectives. From lifelong residents to newer faces, each episode offers a fresh glimpse into the people who make our community what it is.
David Bourner - Local Author
David has just published a book named "How Basildon was built"
In this interview podcast David talks about the book
Tony Dow - Martins Ice Cream
Tony started his ice cream business in the mid 1960's - the business flourished in the growing New Town - Tony talks about the early days of the business.