History Defeats Itself

In honor of Halloween, Kevin conjures up a spooky tale of vampires and a town gone mad. Also, Greg drinks a White Claw. Sources: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-great-new-england-vampire-panic-36482878/ https://www.history.com/news/the-last-american-vampire Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

John discusses a NASA math blunder that took out a satellite. (Hint: they forgot to carry the one.) Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

They say war is hell. And no one knows that better than the Australians. In 1932 they waged war against a fighting force that is still undefeated to this day. The force? Emus. On this episode Greg discusses the great Australian Emu War of 1932. Come for the knowledge…stay for the accents. Sources: https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/australia/great-emu-war-how-australia-started-a-war-against-flightless-birds-and-lost.html ____________________ Dig our show? Subscribe to HDI at Podcast Guru, Google, Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

HDI is back! On an early fall day in Arkansas, 1980 the sky was blue, the birds were chirping, school was just back in session, and a three megaton nuclear bomb nearly decimated a chunk of the state. How could this happen? We’ll talk about that and Kevin’s high level safe word on our latest episode. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Hey Mistorians! We are taking a much needed summer break. We are also going to do some retooling of the show. We are confident that it will be bigger than 10 Super Bowls. But let’s not oversell it. We’re on hiatus for the month of August, returning in September. Have a wonderful summer and go out and make some history! Or babies. Or elotes. Or bathtub gin. We don’t care what you do. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

“Guns don’t kill people. People kill people.” But as the great Eddie Izzard once said…the gun helps. On the latest episode of HDI John talks guns. And holy shit he knows a lot about them for a pacifist! You’ll laugh…you’ll cry…you’ll learn…then you’ll probably cry some more because America’s gun problem shows no signs of getting better. at lease we’re on a Canadian podcast network. Keep those couches warm for us, Sonar. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

As most of us know five conservative judges from the US Supreme Court recently took it upon themselves to drop their collective pants and shit all over women’s rights by making it so that abortion is no longer a guaranteed right. This is, of course, after some judges said they wouldn’t do that in their confirmation hearings. Yes, even judges can be lying pieces of shit hellbent on promoting their personal, religious agenda. On the latest episode of HDI we get fiery over this and other human rights the court may try to take away. Because if there’s one thing we know about people in power, they rarely give a shit about the rest of us. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

All of us have some experience coaching and/or being coached. Sometimes your coach was a mentor…a teacher…a friend…someone to confide in. And other times your coach was just a giant piece of shit. On this episode Greg talks about coaching and what it means to him to mold the young people of America. And John and Kevin wonder how he passed the background check. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

The idea of American isolationism has a long and complicated past. From George Washington to Trump and his minions people have clamored for an America first approach to diplomacy throughout our history. On the latest episode John leads the charge in a discussion about our role as a world leader. Plus, Kevin has a suggestion for John and Greg on how to fix their combative relationship. (Hint: it’s sex.) Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Stand up comedy is an art, it’s a platform, and it’s one of the best mediums for social commentary. But it’s not without it’s pitfalls. On this episode we talk about everything stand up comedy and how difficult it is to walk the line of being funny and being offensive. Plus you’ll hear about John and Greg’s short (very short) stand up careers. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Back in June of 2020, when we were all hiding in our homes and spraying Lysol on our groceries, Kevin led an HDI episode about whether or not the divide in America was so deep that it couldn’t be fixed. He asked the question, should America break up? We decided we should stay together for the kids but the divide is greater than ever. Should we now think about a split? Join us for our latest episode as we discuss in our first ever HDI Revisited. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

On the latest episode of HDI John leads the crew in a discussion about feminism. The disparity in pay and even rights between the sexes that still exists…today…in 2022…is unacceptable. We don’t have all the answers. Just most of them. Plus Greg smokes the pot. Like…a lot of the pot. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Kevin needs to have a convo with his friends and co-hosts about something that is concerning him: the amount of crazy assholes in Congress. On this episode we discuss Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert, and the whacky conspiracy theorists infecting our government. Are we doomed? Probably. But it’s a hilarious kind of doom. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Marriage can be tough and not every couple can make it through until the end. Unless that end is one person murdering the other or, more commonly, in divorce. Greg takes the crew on a journey about divorce in a thinly veiled attempt to justify his impending breakup with John. It won’t be pretty. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Here at History Defeats Itself we like to put our guests to work. Why should they have it easy?! Rahaleh Nassri of the incredible podcast Violent Femme was kind enough to slum it with Kevin, John, and Greg for an episode and she leads us in a discussion about gender parity. Download the new episode today and laugh along as Rahaleh tells the boys to get their little asses into the kitchen and get her a sandwich. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Some see graffiti as art, others as vandalism. But whether it’s funny, political, clever, a crime, or just fucking cool everyone can agree that it elicits an emotion. On the latest episode of HDI it’s part three of our spirit animal series. John reveals his spirit animal to be the chimpanzee and we discuss street art. How did we get there? Great question! Listen and find out. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

On episode two of our Sprit Animal Series Kevin has an inner conflict about his actual spirit animal and ultimately leads the crew in a discussion about sport hunting, also known and trophy hunting. Do we solve this existential crisis? Let’s put it this way: after listening to this episode the NRA and PETA are going to be the bestest of buddies. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

In part one of our three part series about our spirit animals, Greg reveals that his spirit animal is the drug Klonopin. And if you’ve listened to Greg, and you know what Klonopin is, you get it. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

What’s better than listening to three heathens discuss the history and issues with the Catholic Church? Listening to four heathens talk about the history and issues with the Catholic Church! On this episode former pastor and current atheist Trevor Poelman of the hilarious podcast Belief it or Not joins us to discuss the complicated and often illegal and immoral history of the Roman Catholic Church. Bring your crucifix because you’re gonna need to say some Hail Marys after this one. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

There are people out there who believe wholeheartedly that the Wim Hof Method has immense health benefits. Many swear by cold showers and ice baths. Did Kevin find his inner fire after six weeks of g-tummo breathing, cold therapy, and meditation? Did he find positives in taking freezing cold showers on freezing cold mornings? Will his story convince John and Greg to give it a try? Check out part two of Kevin’s Wim Hof adventure and find out. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Pain: it sucks. And treating pain can suck even worse as you try to navigate the insurance, skeptical doctors, and the chance of opioid addiction. On this episode Greg talks about pain and pain management. It sounds heavy but if anyone can make pain funny, it's us three idiots. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

One of the biggest things we’ve learned through two years of isolation and semi-isolation is that feeling connected to people is very important to our well being. On this episode John discusses human connection with his bestest buds, Kevin and Greg. Because if any three people have a strong connection, it’s us. Unless one of us loses internet. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

What if we told you the keys to healthy living are breathing exercises that mimic hyperventilating and taking cold showers? You might decide that healthy living isn’t for you. On this episode Kevin introduces his co-hosts to Dutch extreme athlete and motivational speaker Wim Hof and breaks down his Wim Hof Method that focuses on deep breathing, meditation, and cold exposure to help find your inner power. Is this guy crazy or is he on to something? To find out, Kevin is committing himself to following the Wim Hof Method for the next six weeks after which he will report his findings. Let’s hear it for hypothermia! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Toxic masculinity is a real thing and it permeates our pop culture, politics, social media, the workplace, and many other aspects of daily life. On this episode Greg leads a great conversation about how toxic masculinity affects our society, what we need to do about it, and what it really means to be a man. And he shows us all how emo he truly is. Not because of his sensitivity. But because of the beanie he’s wearing indoors. In California. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

There is some amazing technology out there that we use every day but we rarely, if ever, think about the advancements in safety that came along with this technology that keeps us from maiming ourselves. On this episode John educates us on the past, present, and future of safety plus he reveals his secret for getting in the carpool lane. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

When the Washington Redskins finally changed their name most of us thought…how did it take this long? But it doesn’t end there. The Cleveland Indians will have a new name for 2022 and there is increasing pressure on teams like the Atlanta Braves, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Blackhawks. The issue is that many Native Americans don’t want sports teams using their names and likenesses in cartoonish ways to promote their brands and sell apparel. Some say it’s past time to make changes, others feel some are being overly sensitive. Join us as we tackle the mascot debate and laugh along as John tries to understand sports. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

What does it mean to be agnostic? Is it simply someone who doesn’t believe in God but is too scared to admit it, ya know, just in case? Greg enlightens the crew on the subject of agnosticism. Is this episode blasphemous? Sure. But if there’s a heaven and hell we’re pretty much screwed anyway. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Cancel Culture has taken the world by storm. But is it just? Should we be working harder to educate those who are saying things that get themselves canceled so we can have a more understanding and more inclusive society? We give our thoughts on this and more. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

When society as we know it collapses…will you be ready? We sure as hell won’t be! On this episode we discuss survivalism and prepping. You’ll learn the history, some tips, and what one item John would bring if he was on Naked and Afraid. Hint: it’s not even remotely useful for survival. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

If you’ve listened to our show the one thing you undoubtedly don’t want from the three of us is advice. After all, in our last episode about the stock market Kevin suggested people should invest in Netscape. But Greg decided to give the advice game a go anyway. On this episode we discuss the 7 year itch. Why do people get a wandering eye and how can couples prevent it? Greg has all the answers. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Do you have a lot of really basic questions about the stock market but don’t want to ask anyone for fear that you’ll sound stupid? You’ve come to the right place because we don’t have any issues sounding like idiots. On this episode John attempts to teach Kevin and Greg how the stock market works. You know…with all the bonds, dividends, moneystuff, and what not. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Essential oils are everywhere now. If you have an ailment, there’s an oil for it. But are they real or are they simply useless products that are part of pyramid schemes? On this episode Kevin guides his cohorts in a discussion about essential oils and aromatherapy. And, as a bonus, you’ll get a multi level marketing lesson from John and Greg. You’re going to want to get in on the ground floor, we promise you that. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Stress can be really hard on us. Whether you’re having trouble at work, dealing with problems at home, or having to do a podcast with two people who berate you on a regular basis our problems in life can cause physical, mental and emotional anguish. On this episode Greg talks about the history of a stress diagnosis and how best to cope. Apparently heavy drinking and large amounts of weed are not good ways to handle stress. Which was very disappointing to Kevin and John. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

On this episode we are joined by special guests Rhys and Jesse of the hilarious podcast Canadian Politics is Boring to discuss pharmaceuticals. We’ll get into the good, the bad, and the ugly of legal drugs. Plus, Rhys talks about the joys of playing with a bucket of mercury when he was a kid. All I got to play with when I was little were Transformers. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Bullying is a real problem in this country. From middle school lugheads who call fellow classmates childish names and steal their lunch money to former presidents who call fellow politicians childish names and try to steal all the money, bullies are everywhere. On this episode Greg talks about the acts and ramifications of bullies and their victims. It’s not a good life for either. There’s no better place to learn about the effects of bullying than from three friends who constantly bully each other. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Most people learn a lot in college. Like how we didn’t give up when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor. But aside from learning, college also provides many of our young people with something else: massive student loan debt. On this episode of HDI Kevin guides his cohorts along the perilous road of rising college costs and the debt kids amass trying to get an education. Plus, Greg reveals his thoughts on what a toga part means in his adult years. Hint: it’s not something you’d want to attend. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

We’ve been to a few bars in our day. And by few I mean thousands and thousands. On this episode John goes into the past and present of bars, taverns, pubs, speakeasies, gin joints, and watering holes. Grab a stool, order a cold one, and try not to make eye contact with the creepy dude in the corner. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Owning a home is something most people strive for. We all deserve the chance to have our own piece of land, have a house we can customize however we want, and to be in crippling debt. This week Greg is the landlord as we discuss home ownership in the U.S. You better have his rent, or you’re going to end up doing things you’re not proud of. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

One of the more divisive topics in the United States, along with the Taco Bell vs Del Taco debate, is gun control. On one hand you have people who want sensible gun laws and efforts to curb gun violence and mass shootings. And on the other hand you have people who believe any gun laws trample on their Constitutional rights. If you’re a fan of HDI, you probably know how the three of us feel about it. But nonetheless we have a solid discussion and attempt to truly look at both sides of the coin. Plus, Greg and John write an REO Speewagon parody song. You’re welcome, “Weird Al” Yankovic. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Feeling guilty about not giving enough to charity? Well, join along so John can make you feel worse! On this episode we discuss philanthropy and charity. We discuss the most giving people throughout history, how the system works and doesn’t, and what needs to happen to ensure an equitable society. Plus, laugh along as Kevin tells the story of his snowboarding accident and hospital stay. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

On our first episode back from our short time on the IR Greg leads the charge in an enlightening, if not frustrating look at the English language. Why do we use the same words for different meanings? Why are there silent letters? Why can’t John figure out how to use commas? Join along as we break it all down. New episode is available now! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Kevin’s old. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

We all occasionally read our horoscopes and have a good laugh, share with friends, or wonder what the hell it could possibly mean. But some take these things very seriously. On this episode we talk horoscopes and we dabble in astrology. We’re pretty sure we’re all astrologers now too. It doesn’t seem very hard to get that title. Grab a crystal, invite your favorite high society neo-shaman over, and let’s find out what your future holds. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

As marijuana becomes legal in more states and countries the debate about the legalization of all drugs continues to rage. So John set out to research and discuss one of his favorite things: weed! Join us as we talk about the history of cannabis, how it became illegal, and why Kevin is still hesitant to smoke out of a bong after an incident in high school. Spark up a J, order some Taco Bell, and enjoy along with us. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Everyone wants to live their best life. But in today’s tech-filled world of instant gratification and 24 hour accessibility, are we prone to constantly wondering if we could be living a better one? That’s what Greg set out to discover. On this episode we’re talking about FOMO, or, fear of missing out. Even as I was typing this I got a text message and stopped typing to check it. Was it important? No. But if I didn’t check it I would have been consumed by the thought of what it could be. Is it an emergency? Is it a new Instagram like? Did Conan O’Brien finally lift the restraining order and accept my friend request? I would never have known. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

There are a growing number of “prophets” appearing in this country who claim to be messengers for God. Sometimes their predictions are right, like when one predicted the Chiefs would win the Super Bowl in 2020. Most times they’re wrong, like when they proclaim that Donald Trump will win a second term, or that he’s been anointed by God, or that he’s not a complete piece of shit. Join along as as we talk about political prophecies, why the prophets are dangerous, and what happens when these so called prophets are wrong. Grab some sacramental wine and laugh along with us. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Motivated by his desire to learn more about Valentine’s Day, John leads the crew in a discussion about holidays from around the world and across history. You’ll learn about the origins of holidays like Halloween, strange holiday traditions of yore that even include assault, and why John enjoys camping so much. (It’s not just the fresh air he looks forward to.) Join us as we celebrate every holiday in about an hour! Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Hangovers are no fun. Considering the nausea, headache, fatigue, and general malaise they cause you would think we would just abstain from alcohol. But do we? Hell no! We get right back on that horse. On this episode Greg teaches us all about the joy and wonder of hangovers. Grab some Advil, a little hair of the dog, and feel the pain along with us. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

Let’s be honest, most people are terrible drivers. Not us though. We’re great drivers. Everyone else is the problem. But few things can get people more blind with rage than when someone wrongs them on the road. On this episode Kevin takes the crew for a ride as they discuss road rage. Get those middle fingers ready…because John isn’t using his blinker. Instagram: historydefeatsitself Twitter: @defeatsitself Facebook Group: History Defeats Itself Interactive Email: historydefeatsitself@gmail.com Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

We are so excited to be joining The Sonar Network that Greg and John went and got Covid. But that didn’t stop us from recording! Join us as John leads the crew in a discussion about propaganda and how it is used to tell us what to think. Because, let’s face it, we humans are easily manipulated. Mask up and enjoy the conversation! Instagram: historydefeatsitself Twitter: @defeatsitself Facebook Group: History Defeats Itself Interactive Email: historydefeatsitself@gmail.com Brought to you By: The Sonar Network

We all yearn for the day when we can eat at restaurants without wearing Hazmat suits. But until then, come reminisce about it with us. On this episode Greg leads the way in a rousing discussion about dining out, restaurant experiences, and food. Plus John recounts an adorable story about stealing money from shitty teenagers. Pull up a chair and join us. Drinks are on Greg. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network