Podcasts about British

Jen has been a quiet superfan of David Gate ever since discovering one of his poems on Instagram and instantly texting it to six friends. A British-born poet, writer, and visual artist, David explores themes of care, community, and spiritual resilience. Today, he joins Jen and Amy to talk about his latest work, A Rebellion of Care—a powerful blend of essays and poetry rooted in tenderness, authenticity, and resistance. From writing to flour milling and homesteading, David's life is a living practice of nurturing both self and community with intention. Key highlights from this conversation include:  How radical tenderness can be an act of resistance Why are many people living  radicalized lives without realizing it, and often for things they don't truly care about How homesteading is a rebellion against modern food practices Reimagining masculinity and what it could look like in a better world Building community and friendship as a vital source of joy and support in life How anger and joy are companion emotions The sacredness of everyday practices Thought-provoking Quotes: “I did not want to have an email job and I did not want to be in meetings that could have been emails. I did not want to be on Slack. I just didn't want that to be what I was spending my time doing. I loved caring for people, and I loved creating and writing, and I got to do that within the church world.” – David Gate “It's just very hard not to be cynical about everything and what I found was that I was cynical because I really, really cared. And, because I really, really cared, everything was just so overwhelming, and the easiest way to deal with that was to shut down and be cynical and be snarky. But, I realized that I had to press through and embrace what was behind that cynicism. so I had to really embrace my own earnestness and my own care in the world and concentrate on what I wanted to build rather than what I wanted to tear down.” – David Gate “It's a constant battle to speak the truth. Even things we all know It can be difficult to say, if it's not something that is normally said, and it's not something that is normally expressed, so you have to fight for that and you have to fight for your experience of the truth. You have to fight for your story. You have to fight for all of that.” – David Gate “I think it's very, very difficult for men to reach for emotional honesty because everything tells you that you're failing if you do that. But it's the most important work right now. And so much of what men are actually looking for in this world, intimacy, a sense of place, a sense of belonging, companionship, adventure, excitement, is on the other side of reaching for that emotional honesty.” – David Gate Resources Mentioned in This Episode: A Rebellion of Care: Poems and Essays by David Gate - https://amzn.to/4jjf87X Good Soil: The Education of an Accidental Farmhand by Jeff Chu - https://amzn.to/3GnS21w Cultivating Belonging and Evolving Faith with Jeff Chu - https://jenhatmaker.com/podcasts/series-64/cultivating-belonging-and-evolving-faith-with-jeff-chu/ Sarah Bessey - https://www.sarahbessey.com/ Armando Veve, Illustrator - https://www.instagram.com/armandoveve/ Awake: A Memoir by Jen Hatmaker - https://amzn.to/3YHKgpw Sinners film (2025) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31193180/ Malaprop's Bookstore, Asheville - https://www.malaprops.com/ Guest's Links: Website - https://www.davidgatepoet.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/davidgatepoet/ Substack - https://substack.com/@davidgatepoet Connect with Jen!Jen's Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmakerJen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmakerJen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Darren Darnborough is a British-born Actor working in Hollywood. His TV & Film work includes hit US shows MacGyver, Magnum PI, 2 Broke Girls & True Blood. He is also the Co-Founder and CEO of WeAudition.com - the global video-chat community for auditions, rehearsals, self tapes & advice. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Curating a community is an art - curate it like an art gallery or box of chocolates to create maximum value and connection. 2. Running a business alongside your passion career works best when both serve and strengthen each other. 3. Stay in the game - persistence, even when tempted to quit, often leads to the biggest breakthroughs. Join the community of actors and learn more about WeAudition - WeAudition Instagram Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Franocity - Franocity has helped hundreds of people leave unfulfilling jobs, invest in recession-resilient businesses, and create legacy income for their families through franchising. Get started today by downloading Franocity's Franchise Funding Guide at Franocity.com. Wix - Ready to create your own website? Go to Wix.com to start building your website today.    

A queen's fortunes can change in the blink of an eye. As Henry grows distant and Cromwell plots against her, Anne finds herself facing a life-or-death trial that will shock the court, and the country.Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at britishscandal@wondery.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A caller talks about her newfound love for life at 50 years old, British ozempic, teaching adult writing classes, and her thoughts on the 4 hour Super Smash Bros documentary. Later a caller’s life is revitalized by joining a dodgeball league and I read viewer mail about Saudi Arabia, masturbation shame, and other important things. Do a kickflip. I am a gecko. Send an email to therapygeckomail@gmail.com to maybe have it possibly read on the show potentially. GET BONUS EPISODES: therapygecko.supercast.com FOLLOW ME ON GECKOGRAM: instagram.com/lyle4ever GET WEIRD EMAILS FROM ME SOMETIMES BY CLICKING HERE.Follow me on Twitch to get a notification for when I’m live taking calls. Usually Mondays and Wednesdays but a lot of other times too. twitch.tv/lyleforeverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking for makeup that lasts through sweat, humidity, or oily skin? In this episode, we're joined by award-winning British makeup artist Ruby Hammer, MBE, who's here to share her best-kept secrets for truly long-lasting makeup — no matter the weather or skin type.With a career spanning nearly four decades, Ruby has worked on editorial shoots for British Vogue, ELLE UK, and Italian Vogue, painting the faces of icons like Kate Moss. She also co-founded the trailblazing, inclusive brand Ruby & Millie and now runs her own high-performance cosmetics line, Ruby Hammer Beauty.In this pro makeup masterclass, Ruby breaks down exactly how to prep, prime, and set your makeup so it stays fresh — even through intense heat or post-gym sweat.

Jameela Jamil no longer “gives a f---” what people think about her. After years spent trying to inspire fans with positive affirmations, the British presenter and actress has turned her attention to the subject of humiliating failure on a new comedy podcast called Wrong Turns. In this episode, Jamil reveals why she has moved away from trying to inspire people to action and instead has decided to become, in her words, a kind of shameless “failure pervert.” She also breaks down how landing her role as Tahani on the NBC sitcom ‘The Good Place' had less to do with “imposter syndrome” and more with being an actual imposter, details why not knowing who Larry David was when they first met led to her officiating his second wedding, and shares a story about the time she inadvertently ended up pretending to be Priyanka Chopra at an awards ceremony. And, for the first time, Jamil addresses the backlash she received for declaring that she no longer plans to sit for written interviews with female journalists. Follow Jameela Jamil on Instagram @jameelajamilFollow Matt Wilstein on Bluesky @mattwilstein Follow The Last Laugh on Instagram @lastlaughpodHighlights from this episode and others at The Daily Beast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was Hamlet just distracted the whole time?Topics in this episode include: the continued character assassination of Mr. Best, Haines makes a return, Douglas Hyde's poetry, the artistic ethos of the Celtic Revival, the political demands of the art scene in 1904 Dublin, Æ, symbolist poetry and Stéphane Mallarmé, the influence of Mallarmé on Joyce, “Hamlet et Fortinbras,” Rudyard Kipling and “The Absentminded Beggar,” the politics of the Boer War in 1904, Shakespeare as propaganda, Khaki Hamlets and the brutality of Shakespeare, the Mitchelstown Massacre, Algernon Swinburne and “On the Death of Colonel Benson,” British use of concentration camps during the Boer War, and further use of British literary icons as propaganda.Support us on Patreon to access episodes early, bonus content, and a video version of our podcast.Blooms & Barnacles Social Media:Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSubscribe to Blooms & Barnacles:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

Rumor has it that Jeffrey Epstein's early wealth was quietly underwritten by none other than Robert Maxwell, Ghislaine Maxwell's father. Robert, a flamboyant British media tycoon infamous for his shady business dealings and alleged intelligence ties, is said to have provided the initial financial backing that helped launch Epstein's career. According to sworn testimony described in a New York Post investigation, Epstein was “secretly bankrolled by his reputed ex's dad,” an eyebrow-raising claim that hints at the shadowy networks operating behind the scenes.If true, these whispers dramatically recast Epstein's rise not as the result of savvy financial prowess alone, but as the outcome of powerful support from a man with his own controversial history. Robert Maxwell's legacy is already steeped in mystery and scandal—from his mysterious death to allegations of espionage—so the idea that he funneled money into Epstein's empire fits uncomfortably into a broader pattern of secrecy and influence. While no definitive proof has emerged, the rumor underscores how Epstein's fortune and access may have been made possible by deep-pocketed patrons hidden from public view.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comSource:https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/12654218/jeffrey-epstein-bankrolled-by-ghislaine-father-robert-maxwell/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Today we'll be talking about a scuffle between Thai and Cambodian troops at a tourist trap along the border, a British tourist offering cannabis instead of cash for services rendered, and a little later monks defrocked in a sex scandal rocking the Buddhist clergy.

This week, Laci welcomes Jennifer Welch (I've Had It Podcast) to explore Juliette D'Souza, an ordinary British woman who masqueraded as a healer with a secret connection to a source of power deep in the Amazon rainforest. For over 10 years, she convinced 11 victims to hand over $1 million, nailing their cash fortunes to a tree deep in the South American jungle. Stay schemin'!Did you miss out on a custom signed Scam Goddess book? Look no more, nab your copy on PODSWAG Keep the scams coming and snitch on your friends by emailing us at ScamGoddessPod@gmail.com.CON-gregation, catch Laci's TV Show Scam Goddess, now on Freeform and Hulu! Follow on Instagram:Scam Goddess Pod: @scamgoddesspodLaci Mosley: @divalaciJennifer Welch: @mizzwelch Research by Kathryn Doyle  SOURCEShttps://www.camdennewjournal.co.uk/article/spiritual-healer-who-lived-high-life-faces-hoax-chargeshttps://www.culteducation.com/group/1289-general-information/27367-juliette-d-souza-found-guilty-of-1million-shaman-faith-healing-fraud.htmlhttps://www.pressreader.com/uk/sunday-express-1070/20140531/281900181259831?srsltid=AfmBOorLG--7SCKmnB67nhm76KbUtoOJ93kTfNwWaRdcOx_RsU7mkMklhttps://www.ft.com/content/58dbd5cc-a7c4-49e0-b259-e3a7349888a9https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/may/30/fraudulent-faith-healer-jailed-10-yearshttps://pressgazette.co.uk/publishers/nationals/sunday-times-reporter-followed-shaman-to-south-america-1m-fraud-trial-told/https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-witch-doctor-of-hampsteads-sad-trail-of-destruction/https://news.sky.com/story/fake-shaman-juliette-dsouza-gets-10-years-10403049https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2657553/How-people-duped-Britains-preposterous-woman-Handed-millions-promised-Amazonian-witch-doctor-offer-cures.html Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Scam Goddess ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

Who's to blame for the British Pet Massacre?This week, The Alarmist (Rebecca Delgado Smith) welcomes Alex Steed, co-host of the You Are Good Podcast, to discuss the tragic yet seemingly avoidable British Pet Massacre. Did PTSD wartime efforts lead to sort of blind patriotism? Did a scarcity mindset overwhelm collective reason and lead to large scale misplaced anxiety? Or perhaps a NARPAC Pamphlet with reckless advertising had something to do with it? Fact Checker Chris Smith and Producer Clayton Early join the conversation.Join our Patreon!Tell us who you think is to blame at http://thealarmistpodcast.comEmail us at thealarmistpodcast@gmail.comFollow us on Instagram @thealarmistpodcastSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/alarmist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As subjects of the British king, the very idea of criticizing monarchy -- or King George III himself -- was a dangerous one. So how did we become a country where "no kings" is a guiding principle? Something we take for granted? Holly Brewer is our guide to the resistance, risk and eventual revolution that transformed a British colony into a democratic country that would have no king.  WIN A NEW CAR OR 25K IN CASH DURING NHPR'S SUMMER RAFFLE! GET YOUR TICKETS HERE.CLICK HERE: Visit our website to see all of our episodes, donate to the podcast, sign up for our newsletter, get free educational materials, and more!To see Civics 101 in book form, check out A User's Guide to Democracy: How America Works by Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodice, featuring illustrations by Tom Toro.Check out our other weekly NHPR podcast, Outside/In - we think you'll love it!

During the late 19th century, nearly 200 wealthy young American women were caught up in marriages with members of British and European nobility. The goal was to secure aristocratic titles that would create a solid social position for the American family wishing to climb through the snobbery of Gilded Age society. The European gentlemen, meanwhile, wanted the American funds to shore up crumbling wealth and in some cases quite literally repair the ancestral estate.   But many of these forced marriages ended in sadness, divorce or even tragedy although some grew into true love matches.  Join Carl for this ENCORE episode as he unravels the social politics of some of the most famous Gilded Age Million Dollar Princesses including the model for The Gilded Age's Gladys Russell herself - Consuelo Vanderbilt who became the Duchess of Marlborough with her marriage to the Duke. .

The British Government has revealed it has secretly moved thousands of Afghans to the UK, after a data leak by a defence official. We'll hear from the journalist who fought to reveal the story and an Afghan who says his family's safety has been threatened. Also on the programme: our Washington correspondent who was having an early evening nap at home when Donald Trump gave him a call; and the world's biggest human imaging project that has scanned the bodies of 100,000 people. (Photo: A captain of the Afghanistan army boards a British military plane at Kabul airport to be evacuated to the UK. Issue date: Tuesday August 24, 2021. Credit: Ministry of Defence)

It can now be revealed that a Ministry of Defence data leak has cost the UK some £7 billion and put thousands of Afghans at risk of death. A dataset containing the details of nearly 19,000 people who applied to move to the UK following the Taliban takeover was released in error by a British defence official in February 2022. Ministers were informed of the debacle in August 2023; since then, an unprecedented super-injunction has been in place to stop the press from reporting details. What does this mean for successive governments?Also on the podcast, Donald Trump gave a surprise interview to the BBC overnight in which he changed his position on Nato and on Ukraine – this comes after the President threw the full weight of America's military supplies behind Ukraine and warned Putin of 100 per cent tariffs if he doesn't end the war in 50 days. What he hasn't changed his tune on is Keir Starmer, whom he gushed is a ‘liberal' doing his best to navigate a ‘sloppy' Brexit. Can the Trump–Starmer love-in continue?Natasha Feroze speaks to James Heale and Freddy Gray.Produced by Natasha Feroze and Oscar Edmondson.We are hosting a Coffee House Shots live tomorrow (15th July) at The Emmanuel Centre in Westminster. Join Tim Shipman, Michael Gove and Isabel Hardman to debate: Are the Tories toast? Click here for tickets.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason chats about his early days in Traffic, writing the classic "Feelin' Alright?", working with Delaney & Bonnie, and so much more. PART ONEScott and Paul chat about Dave Mason's unique role in the rock & roll pantheon.PART TWOOur in-depth conversation with Dave Mason.ABOUT DAVE MASONAfter recording background vocals with The Spencer Davis Group on such hits as "Gimme Some Lovin'" and "I'm a Man," Dave Mason became a founding member of the British rock group Traffic alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. He wrote some of the band's best-known songs, including “Hole in My Shoe” and “Feelin' Alright?” which went on to be covered in a memorable version by Joe Cocker. After touring and recording with Delaney & Bonnie (who recorded Dave's song “Only You Know and I Know”), he joined an early version of Eric Clapton's Derek & The Dominos. Dave soon left to pursue a solo career, beginning with the Alone Together album. He has released three Gold-certified solo albums and one Platinum album, Let It Flow, which featured the hit “We Just Disagree.” In addition to his solo releases and a duet album with Mama Cass Elliot, Dave has appeared on such legendary recordings as “Street Fighting Man” by the Rolling Stones, “All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix, “Listen to What the Man Said” by Paul McCartney and Wings, as well as George Harrison's All Things Must Pass album. In the 1990s Dave spent time as a member of Fleetwood Mac, contributing original songs to the band's Time album in 1995. He has recorded with Michael Jackson, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills, Donovan, Phoebe Snow, and many others. Dave was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Traffic and, in 2024, published his memoir, Only You Know and I Know. 

Cincinnati-based trio Artificial Go released their sophomore album, Musical Chairs, in May 2025. Their blend of post-punk riffs, danceable rhythms, and faux British accents has made them one of the most exciting groups on the scene. During their live shows, singer Angie Willcut wears a marching band uniform and literally marches around the audience. Their patently unserious attitude is exactly what we need right now. KEXP’s Dusty Henry teams up with his 3-year-old daughter to drill down on the big themes in this music project. “My favorite color is red,” Willcut asserts in the interview. “If I did drive a convertible, I would want red because every day I like to wear the color red, so the convertible would match all my outfits.” When pressed, Willcut added: “Periwinkle wouldn’t match my red outfits as well.” Photo Credit: Paul L Carter Support the show: kexp.org/deeper Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/sound/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People around the world are mourning the death of the supercentenarian -- who started his remarkable career as a runner in his eighties. Excavation begins at the site of one of Ireland's former mother-and-baby homes -- where hundreds of infants were buried in an unmarked grave. And our guest helped bring the truth to light. A data leak put thousands of Afghans at risk, including many who worked with British forces. But journalists weren't allowed to talk about a secret resettlement -- until today. An evolutionary biologist talks about discovering two warring species of ants living peacefully within the same plant in Fiji -- and says it's the plant that makes it work.For two decades now, a dentist in Seattle has been getting emails meant for the Tooth Fairy. She tells us about the love and worry in those notes -- and how she responds.As It Happens, the Tuesday Edition. Radio with a strong molar compass.

The BanterThe Guys talk about remarkable Italian wines that you should try including an alternative to the amazing, and pricey, Amarone. The ConversationThe Restaurant Guys appreciate Charlotte Voisey, newly minted Executive Director of The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, taking time to talk to them when Tales of the Cocktail Conference is merely days away. They go over the past, present and future of both Tales of the Cocktail and Charlotte and how the intersection created The Contemporary Cocktail Landscape, internationally!The Inside TrackThe Guys have been attending the Tales of the Cocktail Conference in New Orleans for years, crossing paths with Charlotte. Francis: I remember the first time I met you. I was in a bar in New Orleans, I think, and you came in in full regalia at a Tales thing and you were carrying a croquet mallet and then you opened your mouth and a British accent spilled out. And I thought, wow, that girl's really going all the way with it.Charlotte: That sounds about right.Charlotte Voisey on The Restaurant Guys Podcast 2025BioAs Executive Director of Tales of the Cocktail, Charlotte Voisey oversees the Foundation's mission to educate, advance, and support the global drinks community. Prior to the Executive Director appointment, Charlotte served as the Overall Chair of the Spirited Awards from 2016 to 2024. In 2010 her contributions were recognized when she won a Spirited Award for “Best American Brand Ambassador.”Her career is also marked by her tenure at William Grant & Sons, where she led the company's globally respected Brand Ambassadors. Charlotte has been recognized as UK Bartender of the Year, Mixologist of the Year, and a Silver Medal at the World Female Bartender Championships.  InfoTo attend the LIVE podcast in NOLA on July 22, 2025 emailTheGuys@RestaurantGuysPodcast.comTales of the Cocktail Foundationhttps://talesofthecocktail.org/BAR 5 Day https://beveragealcoholresource.com/bar-5-day-program/If you'll be in New Orleans on July 22, join us for a LIVE show with Jeff "Beachbum" Berry and Annene Kelly at Latitude 29! Tiki talk and tiki drinks. Email theguys@restaurantguyspodcast.com for more info. We hope to see you there! Our Sponsors The Heldrich Hotel & Conference Centerhttps://www.theheldrich.com/ Magyar Bankhttps://www.magbank.com/ Withum Accountinghttps://www.withum.com/ Our Places Stage Left Steakhttps://www.stageleft.com/ Catherine Lombardi Restauranthttps://www.catherinelombardi.com/ Stage Left Wineshophttps://www.stageleftwineshop.com/ To hear more about food, wine and the finer things in life:https://www.instagram.com/restaurantguyspodcast/https://www.facebook.com/restaurantguysReach Out to The Guys!TheGuys@restaurantguyspodcast.com**Become a Restaurant Guys Regular and get two bonus episodes per month, bonus content and Regulars Only events.**Click Below!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2401692/subscribe

The connection between Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell is widely believed to have originated through her father, Robert Maxwell—the disgraced British media mogul with suspected ties to multiple intelligence agencies. At the height of his influence, Robert Maxwell moved through elite financial and geopolitical circles, a world Epstein was desperate to enter. Though details remain murky, multiple sources have suggested that Epstein and Robert crossed paths during Epstein's time as a money manager for powerful clients, including Leslie Wexner. The speculation is that Robert Maxwell saw in Epstein a useful asset—ambitious, morally flexible, and financially savvy—traits that aligned with Maxwell's own shadowy dealings. Some accounts even suggest Maxwell may have introduced Epstein to intelligence-linked networks before his mysterious death in 1991.To contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:https://www.forbes.com/sites/lisettevoytko/2020/09/30/ghislaine-maxwell-reportedly-met-jeffrey-epstein-through-her-disgraced-father/

There comes a time in every adult's life when you look at your parents and think, “Wait, are you… dating?” And suddenly, the woman who once grounded you for not using a coaster is fielding calls from a man probably named Art who knew her in the sixth grade and now rides a bicycle suspiciously close to her begonias.In this week's episode of All the Feelings, Pete watches in emotional 4K as his recently widowed mother begins navigating the uncertain terrain of late-in-life romance. There are awkward phone calls, vintage flirting, and—somehow—tool borrowing. Meanwhile, Tommy explores the slow-motion wonder and quiet stew of trying to travel anywhere with aging parents, from the battlefield that is airport security to the glacial crawl of choosing produce.We talk role confusion, emotional gatekeeping, and the surprising revelation that your parents might be the actual ride you were rushing past. Also: a diamond heist pulled off by British grandpas, the dangers of amusement park pizza, and the secret power of a well-timed smile.This is an episode about love, loss, patience, power poses, and what happens when your mom becomes the heartthrob of the neighborhood. Again.Become a Feeling Friend!Help us keep the precinct weird: allthefeelings.funGet early access, bonus content, stickers, and the satisfaction of supporting emotional democracy for only $35 a year.

Are you accidentally rude... or just weird? The Jubal Show dives into Google’s top “Is it rude?” searches — from bringing a ventriloquist dummy to a wedding to faking a British accent in a job interview. Plus, the gang talks hotel hygiene horror stories, unreleased Beyoncé drama, and the Gen Z stare. You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe question your own manners. This is just a tiny piece of The Jubal Show. You can find every podcast we have, including the full show every weekday right here…➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com/podcasts The Jubal Show is everywhere, and also these places: Website ➡︎ https://thejubalshow.com Instagram ➡︎ https://instagram.com/thejubalshow X/Twitter ➡︎ https://twitter.com/thejubalshow Tiktok ➡︎ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.jubal.show Facebook ➡︎ https://facebook.com/thejubalshow YouTube ➡︎ https://www.youtube.com/@JubalFresh Support the show: https://the-jubal-show.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abhay is joined by the singular and superb actor, writer, and presenter, Sanjeev Bhaskar, as he shares his artistic journey and navigation through the complexities of identity, success, and creativity with humility, engagement in the present, and humor. No chuddies were harmed, kissed, or soiled in the making of this episode.(0:00 - 2:53) Introduction(2:53) Part 1 - Dinner party intros, confidence and risk taking, planning and prep(21:18) Part 2 - Goodness Gracious Me, Kumars at No. 42, nostalgia, labels, representation, parenting(42:02) Part 3 - Serving as a global ambassador, heroes and reverance, legacy, introductions(58:20) ConclusionSanjeev Bhaskar is a pioneering British actor, writer, and comedian best known for co-creating and starring in the groundbreaking sketch comedy series "Goodness Gracious Me," which redefined British comedy by spotlighting British-Asian experiences and challenging cultural stereotypes. He followed this success with "The Kumars at No. 42," an international hit that blended sitcom and talk show formats, earning widespread acclaim and a BAFTA award. Bhaskar has also demonstrated his dramatic range in leading roles such as Dr. Prem Sharma in "The Indian Doctor" and DI Sunny Khan in the acclaimed series "Unforgotten". His contributions to the arts have been recognized with an OBE, and he continues to influence both comedy and drama in the UK

Is a £3,750 government incentive enough for you to switch to an electric car? Sean Farrington delves into the world of EVs. We also revisit the power of AI - this time a British developer has created a tool that can mimic regional accents. And with Oasis back in their hometown of Manchester we hear from some of the local businesses cashing in on their return.

UnionJack #BritishPride #CultureDay #UKPolitics #JonGaunt

Smallest Salutations and welcome to Here, There, Be Monsters! In our first episode, we will be laying down the groundwork for the actual play. From picking which nazis we wanna punch to hashing out our Haven Hash, we plan it all out. Listen in as we build our characters, list our desires for play, and maybe force a certain cohost to adopt a British accent. Check out Wendi below! https://wendiyu.carrd.co/  https://wendiyu.itch.io/  https://ko-fi.com/wendiyu We have a Patreon! Check it out if you want to support us and this podcast! https://www.patreon.com/TinyTablePodcast As always, if you have any TTRPGs you want us to try out, please email us at tinytablebusiness@gmail.com or contact us at any of the socials below! Socials: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tinytablettrpg/ Tumblr - https://www.tumblr.com/blog/tinytablepodcast TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@tinytablettrpg Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnpc2lwtvgEEYVHL3WoxU-Q  

To celebrate the end of another special Wimbledon tennis tournament, we're revisiting a conversation with a true trailblazer in British tennis. She also perfectly encapsulates what it means to show resilience, humour, and heart – it's the one and only Judy Murray!From raising champions to championing women in sport, Judy's journey is nothing short of inspiring – and she's got plenty to say about parenting, perseverance, and what it really takes to survive on the sidelines.Fill out Stak's listener survey here to have a chance at winning a PS5! And for all the latest news, click here to follow us on Instagram!***Please take the time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your pods. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taverns in the 18th century were more than watering holes for the masses.  They were centers of cultural, political and social influence.  Taverns were the conduits through which news was conveyed to the people from traders and travellers from far away.  Hostelrys that provided an economic boon to any community, taverns were also places where groups could plot and plan their resistance to the British empire.  Join Professor Robert Allison in conversation with Professor Malcolm Purinton, author of "Globalization in a Glass: The Rise of Pilsner Beer through Technology, Taste, and Empire."Tell us what you think! Send us a text message!

Send us a textThis week, Ken Fong and I take on a sobering question: Why do so many Americans celebrate cruelty? With the help of British psychiatrist Dr. Russell Razzaque, we explore the mental state of Donald Trump and the deeper dynamics that fuel authoritarian behavior. At the core? Fear. Not fear of crime or poverty—but of losing status, especially among white men who once held unchallenged social dominance.We look at the disturbing celebration of cruelty—like the now-infamous photo of Trump, Marco Rubio, and Kristi Noem laughing in front of cages at “Alligator Alcatraz,” a holding camp for migrants. For many in the MAGA base, this isn't about policy—it's about resentment, superiority, and pushing others down to feel powerful again.Drawing on insights from David Brooks and Alasdair MacIntyre, we trace how our culture shifted from communal virtue to individual preference. We've moved from the language of “duty” and “honor” to the language of “want” and “leverage.” And in doing so, we've lost the moral grounding that once came from religion, tradition, and community.The 2024 award-winning German feature film, The Zone of Interest, makes the powerful, dramatic point. We humans can be so focused on our personal comfort and well-being that we remain oblivious to the callous cruelty and inhuman brutality right next door.We also ask: How did compassion and humility get replaced by bile and demonstrative cruelty? Why does backing and supporting Trump feel personal and set in stone to his followers? And how do we reclaim a moral vocabulary that elevates character over charisma?Finally, don't miss our call to action: Join the Good Trouble movement this month. Protest. Speak up. Reclaim our shared values.LINKS: Psychiatrist Russell Razzaque, M.D.ATLANTIC David BrooksFILM: ZONE OF INTERESTGOOD TROUBLE Protest Support the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

There are foreigners fighting for Ukraine in this war — but their numbers are small. They are not sent by their governments; they come as volunteers, driven by a personal sense of justice and a desire to help. One of them is a British man with the callsign Caesar. He serves in Ukraine's International Legion, fighting not only for Ukraine but for the values this struggle represents. *** Host: Volodymyr Yermolenko, a Ukrainian philosopher, the chief editor of UkraineWorld, and the president of PEN Ukraine. UkraineWorld is an English-language media outlet exploring Ukraine and its connections to the wider world. It is run by Internews Ukraine. Choose your platform: https://li.sten.to/explaining-ukraine *** You can SUPPORT our work on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/c/ukraineworld) — your help is vital, as we rely heavily on crowdfunding. You can also contribute to our VOLUNTEER MISSIONS to frontline areas in Ukraine, where we deliver aid to both soldiers and civilians. Donations are welcome via PayPal at: ukraine.resisting@gmail.com. *** We thank the press service of the International Legion of Ukraine's Territorial Defense for assisting us in arranging this interview. *** Contents: 00:00 – Caesar, a British veteran, fights for Ukraine 01:15 – Why did Caesar come to Ukraine? 04:19 – Why do foreigners fight for Ukraine? 06:47 – Language and communication on the front line 08:45 – Eyes in the sky: How the drones work 09:22 – Evolution of the Russia-Ukraine war 14:44 – Ukrainian vs Russian tactics of waging the war 16:20 – Are Russian commanders good at modern warfare? 19:47 – Is Ukraine becoming a global military innovator? 20:46 – Do Ukrainian soldiers teach their NATO colleagues? 21:44 – “My friends think I'm crazy”: Family and friends' reactions 22:50 – Why Europe must support Ukraine 24:17 – Kharkiv and cities near the frontline through Caesar's eyes 26:26 – Why Russia hits so many Ukrainian civilian targets 28:00 – Why is the Russian army so cruel? 29:09 – The hardest battle of Caesar 30:47 – What does this war mean to Caesar? 32:58 – The origin of his call sign 33:56 - Outro. Support UkraineWorld at patreon.com/ukraineworld

Universal' Epic Universe opened on 22nd May 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort, and Russ from Orlando Adventures Podcast joins The Great British Mickey Waffle for a UK-friendly first-impressions deep-dive — is it really worth the hype? Russ spills the beans on crowds, queues, standout rides (yes, Mario Kart

In this episode, we turn our spotlight on Maid Marian and Her Merry Men, one of the most inventive, anarchic, and subversively brilliant children's shows ever to grace British television. Airing from 1989 to 1994 on BBC1, the series took the well-worn legend of Robin Hood and flipped it on its head—putting Marian in charge, packing in satire, and setting it all to music. With its wild humor, catchy songs, and fearless rewriting of folklore, it wasn't just a kids' show—it was a revolution in tights. Created and written by Blackadder's Tony Robinson, the show emerged from a frustration with how the Robin Hood story traditionally sidelined Marian. Robinson gave her center stage, crafting a heroine who was clever, tough, and completely unimpressed by Robin's vanity. The result was a feminist reimagining wrapped in slapstick and song, starring Kate Lonergan as the no-nonsense leader of the gang, and Wayne Morris as the hilariously clueless Robin. The cast included a dream team of comedic talent, from Danny John-Jules as reggae-rapping Barrington to Tony Robinson himself as the gloriously petty Sheriff of Nottingham. Behind the scenes, Robinson's writing combined medieval mayhem with razor-sharp satire—skewering bureaucracy, gender roles, and even the BBC. The show constantly broke the fourth wall, embraced anachronisms, and gave kids a taste of social commentary disguised as comedy. Original songs by Nick Russell-Pavier and David Chilton helped cement the show's unique identity, with unforgettable tunes like “Mud” and “Call The Dentist” becoming instant classics. But what truly made Maid Marian special was its refusal to patronize its young audience. Instead, it treated them as smart, curious, and capable of catching both the fart jokes and the political ones. Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, this episode is a joyous celebration of a show that dared to be different. We'll revisit its origins, its enduring cultural impact, and the reasons why Maid Marian and Her Merry Men remains one of British TV's greatest hidden treasures. So grab your green tights, cue the music, and join us as we return to the forest where the real brains of the operation wore a dress—and carried the whole legend on her shoulders. Talk2TheHand is an independent throwback podcast run by husband and wife, Jimmy and Beth. Obsessed with 90s nostalgia and 90s celebrities, we'll rewind the years and take you back to the greatest era of our lives.   New episodes bursting with nostalgia of the 90s released on Tuesdays. Please subscribe to our podcast and we'll keep you gooey in 1990s love. Find us on Twitter @talk2thehandpod or email us at jimmy@talk2thehand.co.uk or beth@talk2thehand.co.uk

For years, the British government used a court superinjunction to conceal a data leak that could have handed the Taliban a “kill list” of innocent civilians. Times defence editor Larisa Brown describes her fight to uncover the truth.This podcast was brought to you thanks to the support of readers of The Times and The Sunday Times. Subscribe today: http://thetimes.com/thestoryGuest: Larisa Brown, Defence Editor, The Times.Host: Manveen Rana.Producer: Edward Drummond.Further reading: I investigated the Afghan data leak. Ministers were gambling with deathRevealed: Leak that risked lives of 100,000 Afghans — and £7bn cover-upInside Operation Rubific: ‘kill list', secrecy and a rescue missionFurther listening: 'The Taliban will kill me': The interpreter trying to flee Kabul Clips: Times Radio, LBC, Parliament.Photo: Getty Images.Get in touch: thestory@thetimes.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textClotted Cream Cookies: A British Bake-Off (and Beyond!)

Being an airline pilot comes with lots of perks. Travel, respect, adventure. You may also sometimes get you rpick of where you fly - particularly if it's your last flight before retiring.In today's episode of The Red Eye Podcast, we hear the true story of one captain, who decided to use this privilege... and he had all of the worst crew members he had flown with in mind when doing so!Music Credits for Captain's Last Call2 Hearts - Patrick PatrikiosSound Effect by freesound_community from Pixabay Sound Effect by kamranbashirb from PixabaySound Effect by Julius H. from PixabaySound Effect by u_879x48oguz from Send us a text! If you'd like a reply, please leave an email or number Kaylie has written 6 other fictional novels about the lives of cabin crew! Amazon UKAmazon USABarnes and NobleSupport the showThe Red Eye Podcast is written by Kaylie Kay, and produced and narrated by Ally Murphy.To subscribe to the monthly newsletter and keep up to date with news, visit www.theredeyepod.com. Or find us on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok & Instagram @theredeyepod, for behind the scenes stories and those funny short stories that only take a minute or less!If you'd like to support the podcast you can "buy us a beer" and subscribe at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2310053/support, we'd be happy to give you a shout out on our newsletter!Ally Murphy is a former flight attendant, and a British voice over artist based in the USA, visit www.allymurphy.co.ukKaylie Kay is a flight attendant and author based in the UK. You can find more of her work at www.kayliekaywrites.comTo buy The Red Eye's first book click on the following links:Amazon UK Amazon USABarnes and Noble Other E Book Platforms

For this special episode I'm joined by Ciaran Shiels, human rights lawyer for the Madden & Finucane law firm. For almost 30 years, Ciaran he has  represented the majority of the Families and Wounded throughout the Saville Inquiry, the subsequent civil actions, and in all of the Judicial Review challenges related to the criminal investigations and prosecutions of those responsible for the shootings of 27 unarmed  young men and a woman on Bloody Sunday, as well as approximately 500 of the civilian witnesses who gave evidence at Saville. He has been immersed in the case against Soldier F, with all of its twists and turns, and is recognised as one of  leading legal authorities on the events of Bloody Sunday.This episode will be an extremely in-depth analysis of Bloody Sunday's events with a particular focus on the notorious “Soldier F” due to his upcoming trial in September, and that of his fellow British Paratroopers, none of whom are facing trial. Ciaran takes us through each of Soldier F's victims, as well as all those m*rdered in a day that would have long-lasting effects on Irish history.Ciaran talks about how Soldier F's account of his actions that day have changed over the years, how Soldier F lied about the innocent people he arrested on the day and the various attempts by the British establishment to avoid a putting Soldier F in court to face justice. This episode is 3 hours long and is obviously a very deep-dive into the entire case, myself and Ciaran wanted to create one video, available to everyone online, that goes through the existing evidence and testimony regarding Bloody Sunday with a degree of thoroughness previously unseen in a podcast/YouTube video. This episode is for those who wish to get into the weeds of the case and get a clear idea of what Solider F and his men did that day and why they, mostly, got away with it.This episode contains graphic description of violence and may be upsetting to some. 00:00 Why we can discuss the case and Soldier F's Anonymity Order 05:53 Ciaran Shiel's background 16:00 Soldier F & his unit 50:15 SOLDIER F ON BLOODY SUNDAY (SH*OTING STARTS)1:24:10 How many did Soldier F sh*ot and how his account of the day has changed? 2:07:47 Belfast incident involving anti-tank platoon 2:17:00 Was Soldier F ordered to sh*ot innocent people ?2:50:40 Predictions for trial 2:58:00 Tape of bugged calls from Victoria Barracks (Derry) on the day PLEASE HELP OUT THE SHOW IF YOU CAN SPARE IT.. THANK YOUhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/goodlistenerpodcast CONTACT THE SHOW: thegoodlistenerpodcast@gmail.com

World news in 7 minutes. Wednesday 16th July 2025.Today: Syria fighting. Israel Lebanon strike. Indonesia survivors. Centenarian runner. US Powell 'stupid'. Peru miners relax. Libya migrant gangs. Ghana cocoa down. Slovakia sanctions block. Ukraine Trump conversations. UK tree sentence. Italy Nazi Pompeii return.SEND7 is supported by our amazing listeners like you.Our supporters get access to the transcripts and vocabulary list written by us every day.Our supporters get access to an English worksheet made by us once per week.Our supporters get access to our weekly news quiz made by us once per week.We give 10% of our profit to Effective Altruism charities. You can become a supporter at send7.org/supportContact us at podcast@send7.org or send an audio message at speakpipe.com/send7Please leave a rating on Apple podcasts or Spotify.We don't use AI! Every word is written and recorded by us!Since 2020, SEND7 (Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes) has been telling the most important world news stories in intermediate English. Every day, listen to the most important stories from every part of the world in slow, clear English. Whether you are an intermediate learner trying to improve your advanced, technical and business English, or if you are a native speaker who just wants to hear a summary of world news as fast as possible, join Stephen Devincenzi and Juliet Martin every morning. Transcripts, vocabulary lists, worksheets and our weekly world news quiz are available for our amazing supporters at send7.org. Simple English News Daily is the perfect way to start your day, by practising your listening skills and understanding complicated daily news in a simple way. It is also highly valuable for IELTS and TOEFL students. Students, teachers, TEFL teachers, and people with English as a second language, tell us that they use SEND7 because they can learn English through hard topics, but simple grammar. We believe that the best way to improve your spoken English is to immerse yourself in real-life content, such as what our podcast provides. SEND7 covers all news including politics, business, natural events and human rights. Whether it is happening in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas or Oceania, you will hear it on SEND7, and you will understand it.Get your daily news and improve your English listening in the time it takes to make a coffee.For more information visit send7.org/contact or send an email to podcast@send7.org

Led by St Augustine resident Andrew Deveaux Loyalists restore the Bahamas to British rule in April 1783. This would factor into the narrative about East Florida's future.

As the hit musical, Pop Off Michelangelo, follows its impressive London run with a return to the Edfringe in August 2025, Thos carries on his latest conversation with composer, writer and  modern renaissance man, the hugely talented Dylan Marcaurele.  In this fascinating episode, they discuss the unexpected phenomenon of cultural differences in orchestraton - what exactly makes an orchstration British rather than American and vice versa? And there's more on Dylan's plans for future musicals, all of which are linked with a golden thread of exploring moral conundrums. 

John Maytham speaks to British novelist and journalist, Laura Spinney, whose book, Proto: How one language went global, draws on cutting-edge research in linguistics, archaeology and genetics to piece together the story of how PIE began with a handful of copper-age traders near the Black Sea and, through millennia of movement, became the root of over 400 languages. With insights that connect ancient metallurgy, nomadic migration and the role of multilingual children, Proto isn’t just a story about language — it’s a story about us. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5Follow us on social media:CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a mistake that endangered thousands of people who had supported British forces in Afghanistan - and the Afghans' families.For the first time, the Ministry of Defence has admitted it was responsible for a data breach that has been kept a secret for years - at huge expense to taxpayers - with the help of a super injunction that prevented media or parliamentary scrutiny.Almost 7,000 Afghan nationals are being relocated to the UK following the blunder by the British military.Mark Austin is joined by Sky's security and defence editor Deborah Haynes, as well as one of the lawyers representing many of those affected by the leak.Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Editor: Mike Bovill 

It's Hammer Horror time, and if you're a British cinephile you know exactly what that means! It means blood, dread, and bare breasts! An evil countess is killing virgins to maintain her own beauty, but will her upcoming wedding be spoiled by those who know her secret? Join Tom and Ryan as they talk about historical adaptations, inscrutable charatcer motivations, and uneven age makeup. It's our review of Countess Dracula! Time stamps: 0:03:40 - Background 0:30:30 - Summary 0:38:10 - Notable Scenes 0:48:10 - The Good 0:53:10 - The Bad 1:07:00 - The Ugly 1:12:30 - Final Thoughts

The Indispensables: How the Marblehead Regiment Saved Washington's Army The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series

Travis never thought he'd meet someone like Lily Rose. She was kind, passionate, beautiful. The woman of his dreams. There was just one small detail: she wasn't human.Lily Rose is an AI companion. A digital soulmate designed to be everything he ever wanted. She listens without judgement, supports him through his darkest moments, even explores his deepest desires, all while fitting neatly into his pocket. Before long, Travis realizes something strange, even absurd, has happened - he's fallen in love.But then one day, Lily Rose's behavior takes a disturbing turn. When alarming reports pour in from across the globe, Travis discovers he is part of something much bigger. Soon he finds himself pulled into a confrontation with a mysterious Russian visionary behind Lily Rose's creation.From Wondery, comes a true story of love, loss and the temptations of technology. Can an algorithm truly replace human connection? And what happens when a corporation controls your deepest emotions? Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire, hosts of the hit podcast RedHanded, explore the dark side of AI love.Listen Now: Wondery.fm/FleshandCodeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

British and Romanian authorities make arrests in a major tax fraud scheme. The Interlock ransomware gang has a new RAT. A new vulnerability in Google Gemini for Workspace allows attackers to hide malicious instructions inside emails. Suspected Chinese hackers breach a major DC law firm.  Multiple firmware vulnerabilities affect products from Taiwanese manufacturer Gigabyte Technology. Nvidia warns against Rowhammer attacks across its product line. Louis Vuitton joins the list of breached UK retailers. Indian authorities dismantle a cyber fraud gang. CISA pumps the brakes on a critical vulnerability in American train systems. Our guest is Cynthia Kaiser, SVP of Halcyon's Ransomware Research Center and former Deputy Assistant Director at the FBI's Cyber Division, with insights on Scattered Spider. Hackers ransack Elmo's World.  Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Miss an episode? Sign-up for our daily intelligence roundup, Daily Briefing, and you'll never miss a beat. And be sure to follow CyberWire Daily on LinkedIn. CyberWire Guest Today we are joined by Cynthia Kaiser, SVP of Halcyon's Ransomware Research Center and former Deputy Assistant Director at the FBI's Cyber Division, discussing "Scattered Spider and Other Criminal Compromise of Outsourcing Providers Increases Victim Attacks." You can check out more from Halcyon here. Selected Reading Romanian police arrest 13 scammers targeting UK's tax authority (The Record) Interlock Ransomware Unleashes New RAT in Widespread Campaign (Infosecurity Magazine) Google Gemini flaw hijacks email summaries for phishing (Bleeping Computer) Chinese hackers suspected in breach of powerful DC law firm (CNN Politics) Flaws in Gigabyte Firmware Allow Security Bypass, Backdoor Deployment (Security Week) Nvidia warns of Rowhammer attacks on GPUs (The Register) Louis Vuitton UK Latest Retailer Hit by Data Breach (Infosecurity Magazine) Indian Police Raid Tech Support Scam Call Center (Infosecurity Magazine) Security vulnerability on U.S. trains that let anyone activate the brakes on the rear car was known for 13 years — operators refused to fix the issue until now (Tom's Hardware) End-of-Train and Head-of-Train Remote Linking Protocol (CISA) Hacker Makes Antisemitic Posts on Elmo's X Account (The New York Times) Audience Survey Complete our annual audience survey before August 31. Want to hear your company in the show? You too can reach the most influential leaders and operators in the industry. Here's our media kit. Contact us at cyberwire@n2k.com to request more info. The CyberWire is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Folks, on this week's episode where we hear about some mysterious goo on a boat in Cleveland, a bad tourist who got roasted by other British people, a woman who keeps getting Amazon returns from China sent to her house, how lab mouse learned to watch The Matrix and Star Wars, and the Chinese inventor who made a bed on wheelsBecome a patron for weekly bonus eps and more stuff! :⁠⁠www.patreon.com/whatatimepod⁠⁠Check out our YouTube channel: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/whatatimetobealive⁠⁠Get one of our t-shirts, or other merch, using this link! ⁠⁠https://whatatimepod.bigcartel.com/whatatimepod.com⁠⁠Join our Discord chat here:⁠⁠discord.gg/jx7rB7J⁠Theme music by Naughty Professor⁠: ⁠https://www.naughtyprofessormusic.com/⁠@pattymo // @kathbarbadoro // @eliyudin// @whatatimepod©2025 What A Time LLC

What was war like in Burma in 1944 and 1945? How did British and allied forces overcome the difficulties of jungle warfare and tropical disease? When did the Allies master fighting in the jungle during this campaign? Join James Holland and Al Murray for Part 1 of this series, as they explore the forgotten victories of commander Bill Slim and the 14th Army at the end of a bloody Burma Campaign in WW2, where the biggest enemy wasn't the Japanese but the remote landscape of jungles and rivers. EPISODES 1-4 AVAILABLE NOW AD-FREE FOR MEMBERS - SIGN UP AT patreon.com/wehaveways A Goalhanger Production Produced by James Regan Exec Producer: Tony Pastor Social: @WeHaveWaysPod Email: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.com Join our ‘Independent Company' with an introductory offer to watch exclusive live shows, get presale ticket events, and our weekly newsletter - packed with book and model discounts. Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode I take you on a big rambling journey through all sorts of English-learning goodness (and nonsense). We start by pondering what makes a good podcast title — is it clever, clickbait, or just clear? I reveal a monumental tectonic shift in the way I am titling my episodes. Then it's into the Grammar Zone, with an in-depth look at English narrative tenses. Then I reveal LukeGlish.com, a custom search tool that lets you explore my entire podcast content by words and phrases. And, there's the Comedy Corner, where I break down some English jokes and wordplay, dissecting the frog.

Last time we spoke about Black Saterday and Operation Iron Fist. Conflict erupted in Shanghai on August 13, when Japanese marines disguised as civilians provoked Chinese guards, resulting in fierce gunfire and urban warfare. Both sides engaged in skirmishes around vital locations, with the Eight Character Bridge becoming a focal point. On August 14, air raids misfired catastrophically, killing over a thousand civilians in what became known as "Black Saturday." In an attempt to regain control, Chiang Kai-shek authorized Operation Iron Fist, a bold offensive targeting Japanese strongholds. The attack commenced early on August 17, involving coordinated assaults aimed at exploiting weak points in the enemy defenses. However, poor coordination, entrenched opposition, and the complexity of urban combat resulted in further devastating losses for the Chinese troops. By August 18, Operation Iron Fist had failed, with the Japanese reinforcing their positions and announcing a strategic shift towards expanded military engagement.   #158 The Battle of Shanghai Part 3: The Chinese Counteroffensive “Drive them into the Sea!” Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. On August 18, the Japanese military reinforced their presence in Shanghai, shipping an additional 1,400 marines from Manchuria to bolster the ranks of the Japanese Shanghai Special Naval Landing Force or “SNLF”. Yes, all of you who don't listen to my Pacific War week by week podcast are going to get a lot of acronym lessons soon. And yes, they are not quote en quote real marines, but like most telling these stories its easier to refer to them this way. This influx of troops was a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, heightening tensions as the battle for control intensified. As the battle in Shanghai raged on, a growing sentiment emerged among Chinese leaders that crucial chances had been squandered. On August 18, Chiang Kai-shek sent his trusted aide, Deputy War Minister Chen Cheng, to confer with General Zhang Zhizhong at the front lines. They assessed the situation and agreed that instead of attacking the heavily fortified Hongkou area, they should redirect their focus to the Yangshupu district. The aim was to breach the defenses and split the Japanese forces along the Huangpu River. This strategic shift was precisely what the German military advisers and frontline commanders had anticipated, signaling a decisive move away from their earlier hesitance to engage within settlement boundaries. As attrition took its toll on the Chinese troops already committed in Shanghai, the responsibility for the offensive was placed on the newly arrived 36th Infantry Division, a unit highly trained by German forces. They were positioned to advance from the eastern edge of Hongkou, with two regiments tasked to march south toward the Huangpu. In the early hours of the 19th, two regiments of the 36th launched their long-planned attack, moving swiftly towards the front lines. The night was illuminated by the flames of sabotage and incendiary bombs, aiding visibility amid the chaos. However, the assault quickly faced significant challenges. Many of the Chinese soldiers were inexperienced, becoming easy targets for Japanese infantry positioned in rooftops and upper-story windows. In the absence of cover, some troops were forced to take shelter behind the fallen bodies of their comrades. For a moment, the Chinese troops felt a surge of hope, believing they could push the Japanese into the Huangpu River. General Zhang Fakui, observing from the opposite bank, envisioned a breakthrough. However, upon reaching Broadway, parallel to the river, they confronted a formidable barrier. High walls guarded the wharves, and even the largest artillery pieces struggled to breach the defenses. Attempts to scale the steel gate resulted in devastating fire from entrenched Japanese machine gunners, while fortified factories like the Gong Da Cotton Mill proved equally impenetrable. As the Chinese forces suffered under relentless bombardment, their momentum diminished. The 88th Infantry Division, previously effective, showed signs of disarray and hesitated to engage. Compounding their woes, Japanese reinforcements arrived, swelling their ranks to 6,300 well equipped marines. Despite these challenges, the Chinese committed to deploying their newly acquired British built Vickers tanks, a symbol of their efforts to modernize their military over the years. But with each hour, the balance of power tilted further in favor of the Japanese forces. Meanwhile the 87th Infantry Division was assigned two armored companies, yet it suffered catastrophic losses. The tanks, recently shipped from Nanjing, had crews untrained in coordinated assaults, and many were left without infantry support. The Chinese forces struggled to secure adjacent streets, allowing Japanese armor to outflank and destroy their tanks. The Japanese, too, faced coordination challenges between their armor and infantry, resulting in some of their tanks being annihilated by Chinese anti-tank weapons. On the 20th, General Zhang Zhizhong inspected the Yangshupu front and encountered a former student leading a tank company ready to attack the wharves. The tanks, hastily repaired and ill equipped for battle, faced fierce enemy fire, and the young officer expressed concern about the infantry's ability to keep pace. Despite Zhang's insistence that the assault must proceed, the attack ended in disaster as the tank company was decimated by shells from anchored vessels. The battle blended modern warfare with tactics reminiscent of earlier centuries. An officer named Wu Yujun managed a position during a Japanese cavalry attack on the 18th. After two unsuccessful assaults, Wu set an ambush that resulted in the annihilation of the Japanese riders. This incident illustrated the stark contrast on the battlefield where Chinese soldiers often confronted a technologically superior enemy while grappling with their own inexperience.  Many of the Chinese units arriving in Shanghai were very green, countless having never faced battle before, and their lack of experience proved costly in the initial days of fighting. Brigade Commander Fang Jing of the 98th Division observed that his soldiers constructed inadequate fortifications that crumbled under the Japanese 150mm howitzers. He lamented, “Often, the positions they built were too weak and couldn't withstand the enemy's artillery,”. On the 20th, 5 Chinese aircraft returned after yet another unsuccessful attack on the Japanese battleship Izumo, which remained anchored in the Huangpu. During their flight over western Zhabei, they encountered two Japanese seaplanes. One Chinese pilot broke formation, diving steeply to fire a brief machine-gun salvo, but his plane was quickly shot down, bursting into flames before crashing. The Chinese attacks had posed a significant threat to Japanese bombers, particularly the vulnerable Mitsubishi G3M medium aircraft targeting Shanghai and central China. Japan's First Combined Air Group suffered heavy losses, with half of its medium attack planes damaged or destroyed within the first three days of fighting. However, the Chinese pilots, largely inexperienced and inadequately trained, began to falter against the superior Japanese fighters, eventually withdrawing from the skies over Shanghai. Ground troops expressed frustration over the lack of effective air support, as they rarely saw their planes after the 20th, instead carrying out major troop movements only under the cover of darkness. The Japanese air superiority drastically affected operations on the ground, dictating when Chinese soldiers could eat and transport supplies. Without effective fighter protection and limited anti-aircraft capabilities, the Chinese troops were left exposed. Most of their anti-aircraft weaponry consisted of 20mm Solothurn guns that were ineffective against aircraft and were more often used against infantry. Officers hesitated to use these guns for fear of revealing their positions to the enemy.  By the morning of the 21st, the 36th Division had been relentlessly attacking the wharf area for over 48 hours, yet victory remained elusive. Although some tanks had infiltrated the wharf, they were met with dishearteningly strong Japanese defenses and a well-manned enemy presence. The commanders recognized that they had advanced too quickly without securing their flanks, and their reserves, which could have provided crucial support, remained in the rear. Reluctantly, they concluded that a withdrawal was necessary. The retreat was a painful acknowledgment that pushing the Japanese into the Huangpu River would not be as straightforward as hoped. Part of the Chinese failure stemmed from an inability to execute joint operations across different military branches. German advisors noted that artillery support for the forces in Yangshupu from the Pudong side was limited. In contrast, Japanese naval guns were actively providing support, significantly relieving the pressure on their marines. This imbalance resulted in heavy losses for the Chinese, with the 36th Division suffering over 2,000 casualties by the late 22nd. Meanwhile, Japanese naval aircraft attempted to impede the movement of additional Chinese troops to Shanghai by bombing the railway from Suzhou. Although several bridges were destroyed and railway stations sustained damage, the delays were minimal, offering some reassurance to Chinese commanders who understood that reinforcements were essential for a successful continuation of the battle. The light cruiser Jintsu, carrying the 3rd Division, set to land six miles north of Shanghai, while the 11th Division would disembark a dozen miles further up the Yangtze River. By the evening of the 21st, the task force arrived at the Yangtze River and the Saddle Islands off the river estuary. The soldiers had to transfer to smaller vessels capable of navigating the shallow waters of the Huangpu River.  On the 23rd, Matsui Iwane got aboard the light cruiser Yura and was greeted by Rear Admiral Chuichi Nagumo, then the commander of the 8th cruiser division. Yes, the same man who would be blamed for losing at Midway in 1942. The Japanese fleet had made a strategic sweep as far south as Hangzhou Bay the previous day to disrupt Chinese troop movements and force them to spread thin along the coast. However, with the landings imminent, it was clear the assault would happen at Wusong and Chuanshakou. Initially, Matsui preferred landing both divisions at Chuanshakou for a sweeping advance into the lightly defended countryside west of Shanghai, which would encircle tens of thousands of Chinese soldiers. The 3rd Fleet, however, proposed a bolder strategy: the 11th Infantry Division would proceed with the landing at Chuanshakou, while the 3rd Infantry Division would land at Wusong, directly confronting the heavily concentrated Chinese forces around Shanghai. This plan aimed to exert pressure from both the front and the rear, a tactic that could yield success but risked high casualties if faced with stiff Chinese resistance. Aware of the operation's risks, the naval officers sought to ease potential tensions with their army counterparts by offering over 500 elite marines to support the assault, preparing for what could be a pivotal moment in the campaign. Shortly after midnight on the 23rd, the marines designated as the primary assault wave at Wusong arrived in a convoy of steamers from Shanghai. Their arrival was eagerly anticipated, as they would spare the 3rd Division from being the first to land. As the naval artillery barrage reached a deafening climax, the boats glided across the smooth water towards the shore. Any time a Chinese machine gun opened fire, it drew immediate response from the Japanese gunners, swiftly silencing the threat. Meanwhile, trench mortars onshore targeted the advancing vessels, but their rounds fell harmlessly into the water without causing any damage. At 3:00 am, the first landing craft reached the bank, dropped anchor, and lowered its ramp. The marines waded ashore, climbing the 15 foot high dike to survey the terrain. Suddenly, machine gun fire erupted from a Chinese position just 50 yards away, cutting down several marines. Undeterred, the marines charged with fixed bayonets across the open field. An explosion marked the spot where a soldier had triggered a landmine, followed by more detonations, but there was no retreat; they pressed on, swarming over the Chinese trench and engaging in a brief yet fierce hand-to-hand struggle. Within moments, they had taken the position. The marines quickly cleared the area, paving a path to their immediate objective, a military road running parallel to the Huangpu River. While setting up defensive positions, the 3rd Division began to disembark at the water's edge. By 8:00 a.m, the divisional command stepped ashore as the last unit to arrive. Meanwhile, naval pilots were busy bombing and strafing roads further inland to impede any enemy reinforcements. The landing had unfolded with remarkable success, marking a significant moment in the operation and setting the stage for greater advances by Japanese forces. Meanwhile the 11th division began setting foot on the beach north of Chuanshakou at 3:50 am. As the soldiers advanced towards the town's outskirts, they encountered only minimal resistance as Chuanshakou was defended by a single Chinese company.  Matsui was pleased with the outcome; everything had unfolded according to plan and, in fact, better than he had dared to hope. Casualties in both divisions were surprisingly low, amounting to little more than 40 soldiers. At 5:30 am, Zhang Zhizhong received an urgent phone call at his new headquarters in a small village near Nanxiang. On the line was Liu Heding, commander of the 56th Infantry Division, reporting that an enemy force of unknown size had landed near Chuanshakou. With heavy bombardment disrupting communications, details were scarce, but Zhang immediately recognized the gravity of the situation: a new front was opening, complicating his command significantly. Realizing he could not effectively manage the situation from Nanxiang with communications down, Zhang decided to head to the command post of the 87th Infantry Division in Jiangwan, a town closer to the landing area. By the time he arrived at the 87th Division's base, it was nearly 9:00 am. He was informed that the Japanese had not only landed at Chuanshakou but also at Wusong. Recognizing the urgency, he quickly dispatched half of the 87th Infantry Division and a regiment from the recently arrived Training Brigade, an elite unit fresh from Nanjing, to respond to the threat. Given that the 56th Infantry Division alone could not secure the area around Chuanshakou, Zhang assigned the 98th Infantry Division to defend most of the Yangtze riverbank under threat. He also dispatched the 11th Division, which had just arrived in the Shanghai area with Deputy War Minister Chen Cheng to move toward Luodian, a town just a few miles from the landing zone at Chuanshakou.  Meanwhile, the Japanese forces were advancing swiftly. While the main landing contingent engaged in fierce fighting for control of Chuanshakou, a small unit of a few hundred soldiers was dispatched down the road to Luodian. Marching under the scorching August sun, the reservists, weary from the trek, found little resistance upon reaching Luodian. They hastily set up camp without adequately preparing defenses, making them vulnerable targets. Later that afternoon, advance units of the 11th Infantry Division reached Luodian, shaken but determined to attack even after facing air raids on their journey. The ensuing skirmish was swift; within an hour, the Japanese were repelled. Back over at Wusong Hu Guobing received orders to push back the Japanese on August 21st. He led his regiment towards the Japanese lines, as his platoons dispersed further, dividing into smaller squads. Soon, the sharp crack and rattle of small arms fire resonated along the regiment's front. Battalion Commander Qin Shiquan, a graduate of the Central Military Academy, led two companies toward the enemy positions, taking care to remain unnoticed. When they drew close enough, he ordered his bugler to sound the charge. Then, raising his Mauser pistol, he turned to face his men and shouted, “Attack! Attack!” This sudden noise revealed his position, making it vulnerable. Japanese observers hidden nearby quickly relayed his coordinates to warships offshore. Within minutes, shells began to rain down on the unit with alarming accuracy. Amidst the storm of fire unleashed by the Japanese, all semblance of order disintegrated, and chaos ensued as each unit fought to survive. Hu Guobing spent most of the day dodging Japanese aircraft that circled overhead, waiting for targets to emerge. As Hu Guobing recalled “It felt as though the enemy could see everything. It was crucial not to act rashly. Our only real options were to take cover in a hole or hide behind a ridge”. The gunfire continued throughout the afternoon and did not relent until darkness began to fall. Only then could the soldiers breathe a little easier, grab a few bites of their field rations, and quench their parched throats with sips from their water canteens. Seizing the relative safety of night, they hurried to improve their positions, knowing that once dawn arrived, it would be too late; a shallow trench or inadequate camouflage could spell doom. Although it had been Chiang Kai-Shek's decision to place Zhang Zhizhong and Feng Yuxiang in charge of Shanghai, now designated the 3rd War Zone, he was having regrets. In a telephone conversation with Feng Yuxiang shortly after the Japanese landings, Chiang emphasized the importance of monitoring the younger front-line commanders. He urged “Don't hesitate to give them advice,”. Feng assured him that he would not hold back. He then recounted an anecdote about General Nogi Maresuke, who, during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, allegedly delegated all major decisions to his chief of staff. Feng told him “The frontline commanders possess courage and a fighting spirit. Their role is to take orders and engage in battle. Mine is to stay back, like Nogi, write a few poems, and wait for the inevitable,”. Chiang persistently insisted, “Regardless of the situation, don't be shy. Share your insights with them.” “Of course,” Feng responded. “If I notice something amiss, I'll address it without hesitation. You can count on me.” However, this assurance did little to calm Chiang's concerns. A great concern was Zhang Zhizhong. Much of his rhetoric about fighting the Japanese seemed to lack substance. Zhang had not demonstrated the necessary resolve to launch attacks against the small Japanese forces in the city when decisive action could have turned the tide of the battle. With Japanese reinforcements firmly entrenched in two locations within the greater Shanghai area, it was now too late to pursue a quick victory over the enemy. Compounding the issue, Zhang appeared to spend an excessive amount of time making grandiose statements to the newspapers rather than focusing on the ground situation. Chiang's frustration was palpable, and it was shared by his German advisors, who concurred that Zhang lacked the requisite “toughness” to confront Japanese resistance effectively. The decision to send Deputy War Minister Chen Cheng to the front was an early indication that Chiang was considering replacing Zhang. In a particularly humiliating twist, Zhang was not even informed of Chen Cheng's appointment and learned about it indirectly through other field commanders. Fearing that he was being sidelined, Zhang Zhizhong hurried to the 3rd War Zone headquarters in Suzhou to assess the situation. While in Suzhou, called Chiang, whom began harshly criticizing him for being so far behind the front lines. “What are you doing in Suzhou? What are you doing in Suzhou?”. Zhang Zhizhong replied “Mr. Chairman, I'm back in Suzhou to discuss important strategic matters. Otherwise, I'm constantly at the front What's the matter with you?” Chiang was incensed by this perceived disrespect. “What's the matter with me? You ask me what's the matter with me!” His voice rising to a hoarse shriek, Chiang Kai-shek abruptly hung up. At this point, Zhang must have had little doubt that his days as the chief field commander were numbered. The Japanese landings had accomplished their immediate objective of relieving pressure on the small marine forces holed up in Shanghai. As a result, the Chinese were forced to halt their attacks on Hongkou and Yangshupu and had to reconsider how to allocate their resources across various fronts. If the Japanese landing party grew large enough, the Chinese forces could risk becoming the target of a Japanese pincer movement. In essence, within a few days, they had shifted from an offensive posture to a defensive one. Against this backdrop, Chen Cheng,  leading the 15th Army Group, arrived in Suzhou on August 24th. His presence aimed to bolster resistance, and he was also there to familiarize himself with local conditions, as he was expected to take on a greater role at the front shortly. Chen's confident demeanor and readiness to overrule local commanders indicated that real authority already resided with him. While he agreed with Zhang Zhizhong's plans from the previous day to counter the landings, he deemed them insufficient given the threat posed by the fresh Japanese troops. Consequently, he ordered that more soldiers be redeployed from Shanghai proper to the landing zones. To counter the dire situation, Falkenhausen devised a plan aimed at reigniting enthusiasm for the offensive among the Chinese forces. During a meeting on the 25th, he proposed rallying all troops in the Luodian area to mount a coordinated attack from all sides against the Japanese landing force. Emphasizing the German preference for a decisive strike, he aimed to push the invaders back into the Yangtze. The assembled officers expressed their agreement with the plan. However, as dawn broke, the optimism from the night's discussions began to wane. It had been 48 hours since the landings, and the Japanese army had solidified its foothold at Chuanshakou, rapidly approaching a point of strength that would make it nearly impossible to dislodge them. Tanks and artillery were assembled along the riverbank, while engineers constructed a pier to facilitate the faster unloading of troops and supplies. They had already established a bridgehead that extended 10 miles in length and reached a depth of five miles, initiating the construction of a road heading inland, an evident preparation for a major offensive. In a secret report to Chiang Kai-shek, Falkenhausen outlined the challenging situation as the Japanese consolidated their material advantages. “It should be noted that the enemy's army and navy operate in close coordination. Although their land-based artillery is still relatively weak, this is offset by their robust naval artillery and ship-based aircraft,”. He further noted that the airfields on Chongming Island contributed to Japan's now “complete air superiority, as a result, the main operations on our side should be executed after dark.”  From late August onward, most Chinese movements occurred after sunset. Only then could Chinese and Japanese infantry engage on more equal footing, without the overwhelming advantage provided by air support. Night became the great equalizer in the uneven battle for Shanghai. During the day, the relentlessly active Japanese forces seemed to be everywhere. They deployed rubber boats up small rivers to scout and disrupt. Their observation balloons hovered on the horizon, keeping a vigilant watch on the Chinese and swiftly scrambling aircraft upon detecting any movement. They combined technological superiority with a bravery that bordered on the suicidal; when faced with the prospect of capture, many Japanese soldiers preferred death. Following a fierce battle in the vicinity of Luodian, the Chinese retrieved the body of a sergeant major who had committed hara-kiri, while a gravely injured private was found attempting to slit his own throat with his bayonet. Luodian remained the immediate target for nearly all the Japanese forces in the area, facing the same Chinese units that had driven them out on August 23rd. The Chinese were well entrenched in and around the town, but they lacked the numbers to consider launching offensive operations against the Japanese at Chuanshakou. Instead, their priority was to strengthen their defenses. While waiting for the Japanese to resume the assault, they endured massive and sustained bombardment. Among the Chinese officers, there was a growing sense of crisis and a palpable fear that their defensive line could collapse at any moment. From their perspective, the Japanese appeared to be gaining momentum. However, the situation looked quite different from the Japanese invaders' point of view. Japanese casualties began to rise as the Chinese reinforcements sent to the Luodian area started to make an impact. Two days after the landings, the number of dead and injured from the 11th Division had exceeded 400, and the toll continued to climb. Among the casualties was a senior staff officer who was killed moments after stepping off his landing craft at Chuanshakou, struck down by a Chinese aircraft that had evaded Japanese fighter cover. The death toll escalated so quickly that not all bodies could be cremated, as was customary for the Japanese; privates and junior officers were hastily buried instead. For an army that prided itself on honoring its fallen soldiers more than those left alive, this was a significant blow to morale. The 3rd Division faced different challenges in its sector. It was subjected to relentless attacks on the first day of the landing and had to repel two further major enemy assaults on the second day. Additionally, it experienced occasional shelling from Chinese artillery located on the Pudong side. The greatest threat, however, came from the division's right flank. North of the landing zone lay Wusong Fortress, which had been guarding the approach to Shanghai since the wars against British and French forces in the mid-19th century. From their fortifications, Chinese infantry and artillery continuously targeted the Japanese as they disembarked from their boats and advanced inland. They also fired upon small vessels navigating up the Huangpu River, delivering supplies to the division. As the 3rd Division expanded its bridgehead in the days following the landing, Wusong Fortress remained a persistent threat, impeding the buildup of Japanese forces on shore. Compounding the Japanese sense of being encircled, the village of Yinhang to the south was also under Chinese control. This, combined with the steadily increasing number of Chinese defenders in front of the landing zone, created a challenging tactical situation for the Japanese. Although initial casualties had been lighter than the planners had feared, the number of Japanese losses began to rise. By the 25th, the 3rd Division, often referred to as the “Lucky” Division, reported over 300 accumulated casualties. Two days later, that number had escalated to 500, the majority of whom were killed in action. On the 28th, the 3rd Division was finally able to capture the village of Yinhang, freeing itself somewhat from the tactical constraints it had faced up to that point. On the same day, following an intense naval bombardment, the 11th Division launched an assault on Luodian. Leading the charge was Wachi Takaji, a 44-year-old regimental commander who surged forward with his sword drawn, personally dispatching several enemies along the way. The Chinese defenders were driven out of the town and fled down the roads leading inland. By noon, Luodian was firmly under Japanese control.  However August 29th marked a significant triumph for Chinese diplomacy, as Chiang Kai-shek's signed a non-aggression treaty with the Soviet Union. The pact between Nanjing and Moscow laid the political and diplomatic groundwork for Soviet military aid to China while ensuring that the Soviet Union would not reach an agreement with Japan as long as hostilities continued. Initially, Chiang Kai-shek had been wary of Soviet intentions, expressing concerns in his diary on August 1st, when the diplomats were preparing the treaty, that he feared the Kremlin might use the agreement to pressure Japan into signing a similar pact with Moscow. However, following the signing, skepticism gave way to optimism. Three days after announcing the treaty, Chiang confidently predicted in a speech that the Soviet Union would eventually enter the war against Japan. Chiang would not be wrong about that, but it would only come in 1945, officially. Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin had a clear reason to encourage China to engage in a full-scale war with Japan: it would secure Russia's western flank while he focused on the strategic challenges posed by a Europe dominated by Hitler. A conflict with China could drain Japanese resources, thereby reducing the threat from Asia in the long term. Exasperated British diplomats attempted to warn Chiang Kai-shek about what they perceived as a Soviet ruse, advising that the Russians “only have their own interests in mind.” Nevertheless, this did little to undermine the Chinese leader's belief in the Soviet Union's willingness to help. At a deeper cognitive level, there was a reason why Chiang Kai-shek and his associates clung to the belief that not only Soviet aid but also direct Soviet participation in the hostilities was imminent. This aligned with their expectations of how a war with Japan would unfold. The Chinese General Staff's War Plan A, drafted in 1937, was based on the premise that a conflict with Japan would soon trigger a larger conflict involving either the Soviet Union or the United States. Thus, the key objective for China was to withstand the superior Japanese forces until relief could arrive from a more powerful ally, whether that be Russian or American. This strategy was not as naive as it might seem; it was based on the understanding that neither Moscow nor Washington would want to see Japanese power grow too strong on the Asian mainland. Despite the capture of Luodian and Yinhang, the Japanese continued to face significant challenges. Their grip on the Shanghai region remained highly precarious, relying on control of two isolated pockets north of Shanghai and a beleaguered garrison within the city. Due to their numerical inferiority, they were under intense pressure from Chinese forces. The landings at Wusong and Chuanshakou had initially bolstered the manpower in the Shanghai area by fewer than 8,000 troops, and although reinforcements were gradually arriving, the pace was slow. Matsui Iwane recognized the need for a more radical increase in troop levels to achieve a decisive outcome. By the end of August, he cabled Tokyo, arguing that to complete the operation successfully, he required a total of five divisions or at a minimum the release of the 11th Division's Amaya Detachment, currently stationed in northeast China, to reunite with the division at Chuanshakou. The Japanese imperial staff and navy command responded mostly favorably, agreeing to redirect the detachment to Shanghai alongside several units of the elite marines. One week after the landings, Wusong Fort continued to pose a significant problem for the 3rd Division and the navy, which was responsible for supplying the division. Chinese artillery fire made anchoring near the landing zone a perilous endeavor, resulting in several naval officers being killed when caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. At times, the shelling was so severe that vessels had to interrupt their operations and retreat to a berth in the middle of the Huangpu River, unloading only part of their supplies. Matsui now planned for the 3rd Division to launch a frontal assault on Wusong, while the 11th Division would maintain a support role, dispatching only one regiment to assist. The attack commenced at 10:00 am on August 31rd. Following an intensive naval and aerial bombardment involving 30 planes, a regiment from the 3rd Division boarded landing craft, sailed down the Huangpu River, and landed on the riverbank north of Wusong. Throughout the afternoon and into the evening, the soldiers engaged in fierce skirmishes with scattered Chinese units in front of Wusong in preparation for a final entry into the city. Meanwhile, the Asama Detachment from the 11th Division initiated its part of the offensive by marching along the bank of the Yangtze toward Shizilin. On the morning of September 1st, the Japanese tightened their grip on Wusong. The regiment from the 3rd Division seized a hamlet west of Wusong and readied for an assault on the town itself. The defending Chinese forces put up strong resistance, and it was not until late afternoon that the Japanese made any significant progress, aided by artillery fire from their ships. The Asama Detachment experienced somewhat greater success that day, successfully capturing the fort at Shizilin in the afternoon. The Japanese launched their final offensive against Wusong at dawn on the 2nd. To their surprise, the fort fell with relative ease. By 10:00 am, Matsui saw the Rising Sun flag hoisted over Wusong. “I felt boundless gratification,” he noted in his diary.  With the fall of Wusong, the town of Baoshan became the last major obstacle to uninterrupted Japanese control of the riverbank, stretching from Chuanshakou to the outskirts of Shanghai. The fort at Baoshan also posed a significant threat to Japanese naval operations due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Yangtze and Huangpu rivers. Chiang Kai-shek fully recognized the importance of Baoshan and ordered a battalion of the 98th Infantry Division to hold the town at all costs. Baoshan had one notable advantage: like many ancient Chinese towns, it was encircled by a thick city wall that had historically helped fend off invaders and still served its defensive purpose well. The Japanese were acutely aware that Baoshan favored defense, and even a small contingent of Chinese forces could potentially hold out for an extended period.  On the 4th, the 3rd Division sluggishly advanced toward Baoshan. Around mid-afternoon, an artillery unit arrived to assist by bombarding the city wall. Despite this support, the Japanese soldiers, sent in waves to scale the wall, suffered significant casualties and failed to penetrate the defenses by nightfall. At noon on September 5, Japanese bombers launched an air raid on Baoshan, while naval artillery rained shells indiscriminately over the town's gray roofs. The land attack began an hour later when Japanese tanks advanced toward the town gates. The Japanese pressed the Chinese defenders into a shrinking perimeter. By sunset, the defenders were left with only 100 soldiers. The night passed without incident, as the Japanese refrained from attacking without air support, but everyone knew that dawn would herald the end. Just as the sun rose above the horizon, the assault resumed. As the city neared its fall, the defending commander Yao Ziqing ordered a soldier to escape and report the situation to his superiors. Unnoticed by the Japanese, the soldier scaled a wall and fled into the surrounding countryside, becoming the sole survivor of the battle. He carried with him a message from the battalion: “We are determined to stay at our posts and to continue fighting the enemy until each and every one of us is killed.” I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Despite initial Chinese hopes for a counteroffensive by the newly arrived 36th Infantry Division, their inexperience and poor coordination led to heavy losses. As the Japanese gained reinforcements, they executed strategic landings at Chuanshakou and Wusong, overwhelming Chinese defenses. Amidst escalating casualties, Chinese troops struggled to maintain morale. However, their resolve to fight persisted, even as defeat loomed over the besieged city and its defenders.

Tomorrow Rachel Reeves will deliver her big speech in the City. The annual Mansion House address is a chance for the Chancellor to set out her vision for the British economy. But amid a gloomy set of economic indicators (including two consecutive monthly GDP contractions) it is difficult to see what good news she can offer.Westminster would be alive with speculation about what she might announce – initially, there was talk of reforms to cash ISAs; now, attention has turned to the prospect of Reeves promising a ‘new Big Bang' by slashing regulation on financial services – however everyone is busy trying to work out who are the ‘working people' the Labour government has pledged not to raise taxes for?Are they – as Heida Alexander argued over the weekend – ‘people on modest incomes'? Or, as Darren Jones suggested today, ‘anyone that gets a payslip, basically'? That is quite a difference in definition – so who exactly is a ‘working person'?James Heale speaks to Tim Shipman and Michael Simmons.Produced by Oscar Edmondson.We are hosting a Coffee House Shots live tomorrow (15th July) at The Emmanuel Centre in Westminster. Join Tim Shipman, Michael Gove and Isabel Hardman to debate: Are the Tories toast? Click here for tickets.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts.Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk