For the Love of History

Ever heard of a spy duo in their 60s walking three Cocker Spaniels around Nazi-occupied Paris by day and running a secret escape line by night? No? Then buckle in. In this episode, TK interviews bestselling author Matthew Goodman about his riveting new book, *Paris Undercover*—a deep-dive into the true story of two real-life badass women who defied fascism during World War II. We talk about the historical detective work that uncovered the truth behind a bestselling memoir, the women erased from standard war narratives, and how even “elderly” ladies can outmaneuver the Gestapo. This isn't your average WWII tale—it's got espionage, pseudonyms, betrayal, friendship, and... waffles?

Welcome, delicious donuts!

This week, we're diving toga-first into the life and utter chaos of Caligula—the Roman emperor who ruled for just four years and made every single second a full-blown historical fever dream. From horse palaces and floating orgy boats to stabbing Poseidon and bullying his own guards, Caligula redefined what it meant to rule like a god (or at least think he was one). But was he really mad… or just the ultimate troll in a laurel wreath? This is Roman history at its weirdest—and honestly, its most fun. ⏱️ What You'll Hear 00:02:00 – Who was Caligula really? And why did soldiers call him “Little Boots”? 00:06:00 – Roman power struggles, poisoned dads, and childhood trauma 00:08:00 – The golden-boy emperor everyone loved… until he got sick 00:11:00 – Enter: the villain era. Tormenting senators, gladiator cosplay, and birthday revenge 00:13:00 – Floating bridges, floating orgies, and Mussolini's wild archaeological discovery 00:17:00 – Declaring war on the ocean and forcing soldiers to collect seashells 00:20:00 – The assassination that changed Roman history—and why the public still loved him

Forget everything you thought you knew about pirates—because this week, we're telling the real story of the woman who ran the South China Sea and left Blackbeard in the dust. Meet Zheng Yi Sao: sex worker turned pirate queen, ruthless businesswoman, and literal nightmare of the Qing Dynasty. In this wild ride through 18th-century China, you'll hear how a nameless girl from a fishing village built the most powerful pirate confederation the world has ever seen—and retired with her head (and fortune) intact. TLDR: She didn't die in battle. She negotiated her way out and opened a salt empire. Iconic. ⏱️ What You'll Hear The Origins – How a Tonka girl outsmarted a pirate king and negotiated her way into power Fleet Boss Moves – Zheng Yi Sao's brutal pirate code (decapitations included) Protection Rackets & Political Games – When piracy meets mafia tactics and government bribes The Retirement Plot Twist – Why this pirate queen walked away, rich and respected Legacy – Her influence on Pirates of the Caribbean, feminist history, and pop culture

What do Catholic women in the Balkans, tattooed mummies in the Philippines, and Arctic medicinal ink have in common? They've all left their mark—literally and metaphorically—on the history of indigenous tattoo traditions. In this episode of For the Love of History, I sit down with renowned tattoo anthropologist Dr. Lars Krutak to explore his latest book: Indigenous Tattoo Traditions. We dive deep into the meaning, evolution, and resistance etched into skin across continents and centuries.

There would be no true crime without this man!! What do Marilyn Monroe, Sharon Tate, and Robert F. Kennedy have in common? They were all investigated by Dr. Thomas Noguchi, the so-called “Coroner to the Stars.” In this episode of For the Love of History, host TK sits down with author and researcher Anne Choi to talk about her book L.A. Coroner, which unpacks the bizarre true story of how one Japanese American forensic pathologist turned celebrity death into public drama while navigating life as a first-generation immigrant. We dive into the racial politics behind Dr. Noguchi's fame, how the media turned autopsies into headlines, and why Noguchi's legacy still looms large in L.A.'s culture of death and spectacle. If you're into forensic history, medical ethics, or the strange intersection of race, fame, and mortality, this episode is for you.

In this powerful episode of For the Love of History, host TC is joined by scholar and author Dr. Anita Say Chan to explore the unsettling historical roots of modern data science and artificial intelligence. Drawing from her groundbreaking book Predatory Data: Eugenics in Big Tech and Our Fight for an Independent Future, Anita uncovers how today's predictive algorithms trace back to 19th-century eugenics. Yes, really. Statistical regression—the backbone of online recommendation engines—was developed by a eugenicist. And that's just the beginning. We unpack how algorithmic bias, data colonialism, and techno-eugenics operate in today's platforms—from Facebook's role in global violence to the AI industry's resistance to regulation. If you're curious about the intersections of technology, race, gender, and power, this is the episode you've been waiting for.

I can't thank this community enough, thank you for giving me a voice, thank you for helping me give a voice to the voiceless of the past, and thank you for joining me for the last 5 years as I talk about the weirdest shit in history! I love you always and don't forget to drink your water

It's time for some hidden history, dear one!! Did you know one of Japan's most famous artists had a secret weapon? And no, it wasn't just his paintbrush! In this episode, we uncover the fascinating, overlooked story of Katsushika Oi, the daughter (and possible secret collaborator) of the legendary Hokusai! Oi wasn't just any artist—she was a bold, brilliant painter who worked in the shadow of her famous father. Her work, including the stunning 'Night Scene in the Yoshiwara,' showcased her mastery of light and color. But was she merely an assistant, or did she play a far bigger role in Hokusai's masterpieces? Join us as we dive into her life, her art, and the reasons history nearly erased her. Spoiler: This is hidden women's history at its finest! What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Hold onto your corsets and brace yourself for some historical spice, because today we're talking about Victorian nipple rings. Yes, you read that right. The prim and proper era of high collars, afternoon tea, and… pierced nipples? Turns out, the Victorians (and their French counterparts in the Belle Époque) were way freakier than we give them credit for. What's Inside This Episode?

Grab your smelling salts, delicious doughnuts, because we're diving into the scandalous, bizarre, and often horrifying world of 18th-century reproductive health! This week, I'm joined by the brilliant Mina Moriarty—historian, writer, and content creator extraordinaire—to talk about contraception and menstruation in the 1700s. Spoiler alert: it involves lemon rinds, animal intestines, and a whole lot of societal shame. What's Inside This Episode?

Ahoy, history besties! Ready to set sail into the chaotic and badass world of piracy? But forget the bearded, rum-guzzling captains of the 1600s—this week, we're diving into the legend of an ancient pirate queen who gave Rome the middle finger and (allegedly) cursed an entire city. Meet Teuta of Illyria, the woman who turned the Adriatic Sea into her personal treasure chest and left a legacy fierce enough to still haunt the waves. What's Inside This Episode? ⚓ A queen who ruled with a cutlass and a crown ⚓ How piracy went from a side hustle to Illyria's top industry ⚓ Rome's terrible attempt at diplomacy (Spoiler: it ends with an assassination) ⚓ Betrayals, sieges, and one epic curse that lasted centuries ⚓ Why Teuta's legacy still slaps over 2,000 years later Why You'll Love It: If you love history with a side of sass, drama, and high-seas adventure, this episode is for you. Plus, we're getting back to our Empress Baddie roots with a woman who did not come to play—unless it was a game of ‘How Many Roman Ships Can I Plunder Before Lunch?'

When the world told them to sit down, they danced. When their voices were silenced, they sang. When religion and government tried to erase them, they thrived in the shadows. Welcome to the story of mudang (무당), the women who shaped and preserved Korean shamanism (or Musok 무속) against all odds. This episode dives into their centuries-long defiance and the magic, rebellion, and resilience that kept their traditions alive. ✨ How Korean shamanism became a lifeline for women cast out by Confucian society

Buckle up, history besties—this episode is not safe for work (unless you've got headphones and a rebellious streak). We're diving deep into the history of sex with none other than Esmé Louise James, the brilliant mind behind Kinky History! In this delightfully scandalous conversation, we uncover:

Happy Valentine's Day, history besties! Whether you're blissfully in love, dodging dating apps like a pro, or just here for the weird history (respect ✊), this episode is for you. We're diving deep into history's strangest, grossest, and most WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT aphrodisiacs and ancient booty calls. Spoiler: some people really went to extreme lengths to set the mood.

Welcome to For the Love of History! In this episode, we dive into a lesser-known yet fascinating tale of maritime history with author and archaeologist Andrew Celyn. His latest book, Kidnapped at Sea: The Civil War Voyage of David Henry White, uncovers the harrowing journey of a free Black teenager who was abducted and forced aboard the infamous Confederate raider, the CSS Alabama. We discuss how David Henry White's story defies Confederate propaganda and serves as a powerful counterpoint to the glorification of the Lost Cause. Andrew shares his journey from archaeology to Civil War history, his research challenges, and the surprising cultural connections between Cape Town and the Confederacy. From forensics to historical analysis, this episode is packed with revelations about one of history's unsung heroes. Episode Highlights: Andrew Celyn's surprising start as an archaeologist and how it led him to uncover the story of David Henry White. The role of the CSS Alabama during the Civil War and its unexpected stop in Cape Town. How White's life reveals the lies behind Confederate narratives. The challenges of reconstructing White's story through sparse historical records. Discussion on Civil War naval stories, the Lost Cause myth, and Confederate propaganda. The importance of including marginalized voices in historical narratives. Call to Action: Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges traditional Civil War narratives and brings a hidden story to light. Subscribe to For the Love of History wherever you listen to podcasts and leave a review to help us continue uncovering fascinating historical tales. Share this episode with your friends who love learning about untold stories from history! Guest Information: Find out more about Andrew Celyn and his book Kidnapped at Sea: The Civil War Voyage of David Henry White by visiting kidnappedatsea.com Additional Notes: Check the show notes for a link to Andrew's website and updates on upcoming book signings and events. Stay tuned for more captivating episodes on history that you didn't know you needed to hear. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, share it, subscribe, and come back next time for more historical deep dives. TrovaTrip Alert! Oh hey, history buffs! Want to nerd out with me in person? Join me on a dreamy trip to Japan (hello matcha, temples, and Kyoto sunsets!) from August 24–30, 2025. Spots are limited, and early birds get a discount—don't sleep on it! https://trovatrip.com/trip/asia/japan/japan-with-tehya-nakamura-aug-2025

Welcome back, my delicious doughnut!

Welcome back, dear one! This week, we're scrubbing in and diving scalpels-first into the history of surgery. From ancient skull drilling to the OG rhinoplasty (nose job, anyone?), this episode explores the bizarre, bloody, and brilliant evolution of ancient surgical techniques. Spoiler: it's not all medieval barber surgeons and questionable hygiene. What you'll learn in this episode:

Welcome, history besties and ink enthusiasts! This week on For the Love of History, we're taking a deep dive into the fascinating world of tattoo anthropology with none other than Lars Krutak, author of Tattoo Traditions of Asia. Lars shares jaw-dropping stories from his 25+ years of fieldwork, uncovering the hidden meanings behind indigenous tattoo traditions across Asia and beyond. Ever wondered why a hornbill or centipede might make it onto someone's skin? Or how tattoos protected warriors in battle (think magical meteorites and spiritual rituals)? Get ready for a wild ride through culture, identity, and artistry! ⭐⭐Calm History ⭐⭐ Try the new podcast, Calm History: www.calmhistory.com In this episode, you'll learn: How Lars stumbled into tattoo anthropology (hint: Fairbanks, Alaska, and minus 55°F temperatures play a role). The intricate and spiritual meanings behind traditional tattoos in Borneo, Nagaland, and more. The mind-blowing connection between tattoos and cosmic meteorites. Why traditional tattooing is making a comeback—and how artists are keeping it relevant today. Lars's research isn't just academic; it's an adventure story featuring remote villages, motorcycles, and cultural revivals. Whether you're a tattoo lover, a history buff, or someone who just loves a good Indiana Jones-esque tale, this episode is for you! Where to find Lars Website Vanishing Tattoo Documentary Instagram Tattoo Traditions of Asia (get your copy here)

Did you know that Socrates—yes, that Socrates—had a teacher who was a woman? And not just any woman, but Aspasia of Miletus, the queen of ancient philosophy, rhetoric, and savage comebacks. In this episode, we're diving deep into her life, her legacy, and the absolutely wild smear campaigns she endured (spoiler: haters gonna hate since 450 BCE). Get ready to learn how Aspasia schooled some of the smartest guys in Athens, ran academic salons that gave women a voice, and may have even written some of Pericles' greatest speeches. Buckle up, because we're about to hop in our time machine for a spicy mix of history, scandal, and feminist truth bombs. What's Inside This Episode? How a girl from Miletus ended up teaching Socrates (mind-blown emoji). The drama-filled romance with Pericles (a.k.a. Perry the Platypus). Her legendary intellect, her haters (looking at you, Aristophanes), and her ultimate disappearance from history. The ridiculous sexism that still erases Aspasia from textbooks today. TrovaTrip Alert! Oh hey, history buffs! Want to nerd out with me in person? Join me on a dreamy trip to Japan (hello matcha, temples, and Kyoto sunsets!) from August 24–30, 2025. Spots are limited, and early birds get a discount—don't sleep on it! What's the Tea with the Community Census? Your voice matters! Fill out the For the Love of History 2025 Community Census and tell me what you want more of (or less of!) in upcoming episodes. Plus, you'll get the chance to win a free t-shirt or one of my favorite books. Sweet deal, right? Why You'll Love This Episode: If you're into Greek history, badass women, or just want an excuse to feel smarter than everyone at your next trivia night, this one's for you. It's part historical deep dive, part roast session, and 100% a love letter to one of the most overlooked women in history. Final Thoughts: The haters may have tried to erase Aspasia, but not on my watch. Let's reclaim her legacy and give this queen the credit she deserves. Tune in, sip some wine (or tea), and enjoy the sassiest history lesson of the season!

It's time for a creepy, cozy Christmas! In this episode of For the Love of History, we delve into the chilling legend of Krampus, the infamous counterpart to Saint Nicholas. This horned, mythical creature has haunted Alpine folklore for centuries, delivering punishment to those who land on the naughty list. Discover the fascinating origins of Krampus, from his roots in Norse mythology to his connections with the goddess Perchta in Alpine pagan traditions. We'll explore: How Krampus evolved from a pagan protector to a feared symbol under Christianity. The wild tradition of Krampusnacht and the Krampuslauf (Krampus Run). How Krampus nearly disappeared under fascist rule and made a roaring comeback in the 20th century. Heartwarming modern efforts to integrate Krampus traditions with new communities. This episode also touches on the broader themes of winter folklore and how societies have used mythical figures like Krampus to reflect their fears, values, and celebrations. What You'll Learn: The historical and cultural significance of Krampus in Alpine regions. Surprising connections between winter folklore and societal shifts. How Krampus has been reimagined in contemporary media and traditions. Keywords: Krampus folklore, Alpine traditions, Christmas mythology, Krampusnacht, Saint Nicholas legends, pagan winter traditions, history of Krampus, creepy Christmas tales, Perchta mythology, winter solstice folklore. Call to Action: If you enjoyed this eerie holiday tale, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your history-loving friends! Let us know your favorite winter folklore character, and join us next week for the kickoff of Season 10. Until then, stay curious and cozy!

If you've ever wondered about the wild, weird, and occasionally disgusting history of colors, you're in for a treat. In this week's episode of For the Love of History, we're joined once again by fan-favorite and resident archaeologist Hannah—a walking encyclopedia of ancient technologies. Together, we dive into the fascinating history of pigments and explore how colors shaped human history, art, and even survival. From poisonous paints to snail-squeezed purples, this episode is packed with quirky facts, unexpected science, and plenty of laughs. You'll never look at a paint swatch the same way again! What's in This Episode?

Grab your hot beverage ☕️ and cozy up, because this week on For the Love of History, we're diving into the magical world of winter witches. Across the globe, from the snowy mountains of Japan to the frosty forests of Germany, winter has long been intertwined with folklore, magic, and powerful women. Join me as I uncover captivating tales of winter witches, their cultural significance, and how they've inspired both awe and fear throughout history. Discover fascinating legends such as: Frau Holle, the snow-bringing goddess from German folklore who rewards the kind and punishes the selfish. Oshiro Baba, Japan's benevolent winter witch who roams the mountains offering life-saving sake to travelers. Gunnhild, the Viking witch queen whose story blurs the line between history and myth. We'll also explore the chilling connection between harsh winters and historical witch hunts, uncovering how crop failures and cold weather fueled fear and accusations. Whether you're a history buff, a folklore enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good winter tale, this episode is your perfect holiday escape into the mystical and magical. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How folklore connects witches to winter across different cultures. The role of women and power in shaping myths and societal fears. Surprising historical links between economic hardship, weather changes, and witch trials. Keywords: Winter folklore, witchcraft history, seasonal myths, Frau Holle, Oshiro Baba, Gunnhild, historical witch trials, solstice traditions, global legends of witches, magical winter tales. Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us uncover more fascinating stories from the past. And remember, stay cozy, stay curious, and do something today that brings you joy. Happy holidays!

Welcome to the weird and wonderful world of historical poison!

Gobble gobble, dear one!

Welcome, history besties and chaos goblins, to a special archived episode of For the Love of History—and trust me, this one is iconic.

Join TK on another enlightening adventure through the big book of history in this episode! We welcome two esteemed guests from the Museum of Us: Kara Vetter, Senior Director of Cultural Resources, and Micah Parzen, CEO. Together, they delve into the significant transformation of the museum's identity from the Museum of Man to the Museum of Us—a change driven by a commitment to inclusivity, anti-racism, and community engagement. Discover the journey behind redefining a museum to reflect the diverse narratives of humanity, the challenges faced during the transition, and the strong community involvement that shaped the new mission. TC and the guests tackle the complexities of museum practices, discuss the importance of storytelling in preserving history, and share innovative approaches in presenting exhibits that address contemporary social issues. From noteworthy projects to collaborative efforts with local communities, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the evolving role of museums in fostering dialogue on diversity and inclusion. Whether you're a history buff, a museum enthusiast, or simply curious about how institutions can become more representative, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss! Tune in now and share in the vision of a museum that truly believes in the power of "us"!

In our season finale, we're rolling out the red carpet for the one and only Lilith—the O.G. femme fatale, and the ultimate “villain era” icon! From ancient Sumerian demon to Adam's feisty first wife, Lilith's been raising eyebrows (and blood pressures) for centuries. Think you know her? Think again! Lilith's story is more twisty than a soap opera plot, packed with scandals, fanfiction rewrites, and more rebrands than T-Swift. We're spilling the tea on her journey from baby-snatching baddie to empowered icon, unraveling the lore that made her a pop culture staple (hello, Supernatural fans!). Whether she's inspiring feminist movements or shaking up neo-pagan circles, Lilith has shown us that sometimes, the best way to make history is to refuse to play nice. So buckle up and embrace the rebel energy of Lilith—the gal who put the “myth” in mythology. It's time to get fierce, folks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've all heard of Medusa but was she really as monstrous as we've been led to believe?

When life gives you lemons become a ninja! This week we explore the history of the legendary all-women ninja clan led by Mochizuki Chiyome and find out if they really even existed. And get ready for some spicy TK at the end of the ep

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Few foods have a history as violent and dark as tea. From opium dens to forced prostitution, smuggling, and poisonous adulteration, the history of tea is chock-full of atrocities. ________________________________________________ Voting Resources https://www.vote.org/ Expat Voting Information https://www.fvap.gov/overseas?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw0aS3BhA3EiwAKaD2ZZcvoU4eX6gWuoODKBJUjDgm2CZpJFKvs8RTyj33ASVtQLE-jUpsghoCXqwQAvD_BwE ______________________________________

For a full list of resources please check out fortheloveofhistory.com There is a lovely long PFD for you to download with everything!! https://www.fortheloveofhistorypod.com/episodes/the-complex-and-cool-history-of-copies-archeologist-chat-with-pnar-durgun-and-hannah-herrick ________________________________ Voting Resources https://www.vote.org/ Expat Voting Information https://www.fvap.gov/overseas?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw0aS3BhA3EiwAKaD2ZZcvoU4eX6gWuoODKBJUjDgm2CZpJFKvs8RTyj33ASVtQLE-jUpsghoCXqwQAvD_BwE ______________________________________

Where can I find Micheal? Website https://www.howtostartawar.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/howtostartawarbook/ Email michael@howtostartawar.com ____________________________________________ Voting Resources https://www.vote.org/ Expat Voting Information https://www.fvap.gov/overseas?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw0aS3BhA3EiwAKaD2ZZcvoU4eX6gWuoODKBJUjDgm2CZpJFKvs8RTyj33ASVtQLE-jUpsghoCXqwQAvD_BwE ______________________________________

You're walking through a museum, holding a little coffee, and taking in the beautiful artifacts around you. Suddenly you are face-to-face with a 4,000-year-old mummy. People pass by it like any other artifact, but you stop and question. How did it get here? Why is it here? Who is this person? These are the questions Dr. Angela Stienne asked herself while creating her book Mummified. In this ep, we talk about mummies, museum ethics, and the dark history of how these human remains became common in museums worldwide. Find Dr. Angela here! Mummy Stories https://www.mummystories.com/ Book https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/9781526161895/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/angelastienne/

There was a moment in the 3rd century when Rome was almost defeated, and the exactor of this conquest was Queen Zenobia of Palmyra. This week we explore the life and legacy of the woman who had Rome on the ropes and made her empire the Pearl of the Desert! But she wasn't just a fearsome warrior woman, collecting land for sport. She was a brilliant strategist, leader, and patron of the arts. And you know we talk about it all because we are not here to make these brilliant Empress baddies one-dimensional beings, neh neh dear one!!! So what are you waiting for?! Press play and let's go get Rome!! Calm History Podcast https://podfollow.com/calm-history ________________________________________________________________________

Find Beef Here! Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beef-with-bridget-todd/id1674072378 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/7hPv9hQzpdMBgn6eKtXV9G

To celebrate my birthday we're going to hell! Again...

This week we have the unique privilege to speak to Hannah Herrick, an archeologist who researches ancient technologies and a huge concrete stan! Yes, that's right, in this episode we are talking about everything concrete. This 12,000-year-old tech is a direct line to so many parts of human history and I guarantee by the end of the episode you're also going to want an "I Stant Concrete" t-shirt! ___________________________________________________ Where to Find Hannah Skype a Scientist https://www.skypeascientist.com/ Email hannah_herrick@sfu.c

This week we explore not only the LONG history of the toilet but also some untimely deaths brought about by the porcelain thrown. From medieval floating toilet closets to poopoo ninjas we're looking at the Sh*tiest deaths in history.

Is the curse of the mummy real? Are all Victorian ghost children the product of gas leaks? Will Brendan Fraser ever return for the true third installment of The Mummy!? In this week's episode, we discuss all this and more with the incredible Katie Charlwood! _______________________________________________

The first Empress Baddie of the season, well kind of. In this week's time travel trip to the past we combine our two loves women's history and tattoo history to explore the incredibly recent discovery of Lady Cao, a possible Peruvian queen. Why do I say possible? Well, you'll just have to tune into the episode to find out!

Satan, the Devil, Lucifer the fallen angel we love to hate. But was he really such a terrible guy to begin with? This week we dive into the history of old Scratch himself to figure out why he has so many names, what's the deal with always possessing women, and so much more. Join TK as we hop in the time machine and find out how Satan came to be. __________________________

In an unfair world, some cosmic justice is surely due and this episode delivers! E.J Barnes takes us through the wild and weird story of Elisa von der Recke and "Count" Cagliostro. Want more EJ!? Website: https://ejbarnes.com/ Books and Comics: https://www.drownedtownpress.com/