Laugh and learn about history
Time out of the office means a chance to podcast binge and, for the new year, I’m keen to laugh more and learn more. For laughs, I’ve been catching up on the always hilarious history podcast, The Dollop, with Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds.
Each episode, Anthony provides an account of a ‘‘wacky’’ historical tale and Reynolds – who doesn’t know the tale– comments throughout.
The combination of often unbelievable historical facts, paired with Reynolds’ real and unforced reactions makes me laugh out loud.
There are hundreds of episodes, which deliver on comedy and history every time.
For something more solid in the history department, Stuff You Missed in History Class fits the bill. Highlighting lesserknown historical events, such as the real-life Indiana Jones and how the New York draft riots worked, this podcast is factual storytelling at its finest.
The fast-paced format is presented by self-confessed history lovers Tracey V Wilson and Holly Frey, but you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy these podcasts.
After indulging in a lot of edible treats over the festive period, Gastropod is perfect to satiate my foodie and history appetite.
Since 2014, hosts Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twiley have been taking an in-depth look into the science and history of every food topic you can think of.
Audio clips, interviews and the narration make this a digestible snack of food history in under 40 minutes.