The History of the Twentieth Century 430 Question Time II
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Dec 25, 2025 This special features a Q&A with the host, diving into the complexities of completing the 20th century narrative. He shares his passion for podcasting and explains how he selects topics based on personal interest and historical significance. A fascinating discussion on the impact individuals like Churchill and Hitler had on history sheds light on the interplay of personal agency and structural forces. Additionally, he critiques the connections between Nazism and mysticism while elaborating on his research methods using diverse sources, including personal diaries.
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Embrace Uncertainty And Work In Short Bursts
- Mike Duncan avoids long-term episode forecasts and focuses on the next few episodes to manage the project's scope.
- He accepts uncertainty about finishing the century and will let the podcast take as long as it needs.
Let Your Interest Drive Topic Choice
- Choose topics you find interesting as the primary rule for coverage.
- Let personal taste guide the narrative because the podcast is a personal statement about the 20th century.
A New Angle Makes Old Stories Fresh
- Even well-covered events gain fresh value when told from a unique perspective.
- Mike frames familiar stories by linking culture, technology, and individual details to reveal new angles.