WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk
Goalhanger
The World War II podcast with comedian Al Murray and historian James Holland.We Have Ways of Making You Talk dives deep into WWII history, exploring key battles, forgotten front lines, and incredible untold stories. Whether you're fascinated by the Battle of Britain, the D-Day landings, or the Eastern Front, this show offers a rich, detailed look at the war that shaped the modern world.Al and James bring a unique blend of expert knowledge and humour, discussing everything from the Third Reich, Churchill's leadership, and the Fall of Berlin, to World War 2 tanks, fighter planes, and naval battles. Expect historical insights, lively tangents, and discussions on iconic second world war events like Operation Barbarossa, the Pacific Theatre, and the North African campaign.Join our membership club for extra content, livestreams and ad-free listening: patreon.com/wehavewaysFor more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 6, 2025 • 48min
The Siege Of Malta: The Most Bombed Place On Earth (Part 4)
King George VI awarded the George Cross to Malta, symbolizing its heroic stand against relentless bombing. Hosts dive into the devastating April 7 raid, examining the destruction and civilian impact. They discuss Luftwaffe strategies and the strained morale under constant threat of invasion. The arrival of Spitfires from USS Wasp offers a fleeting hope, but pilots face harsh realities in the skies. Amidst supply shortages and tactical missteps, Malta's resilience proves crucial in the broader context of WWII.
Nov 4, 2025 • 55min
The Siege Of Malta: Spitfire (Part 3)
The arrival of RAF Spitfires was crucial for Malta's defense against relentless Luftwaffe attacks. The hosts delve into Kesselring's strategy to neutralize Malta and the impact of heavy Hurricane losses. They criticize RAF leadership for delaying Spitfire shipments despite production readiness. Personal stories of pilots add a human touch to the aerial battles. The podcast also covers submarine operations, the perilous resupply convoy, and the catastrophic results of decision-making failures. It's a gripping look at Malta's pivotal role in WWII.
Oct 30, 2025 • 59min
The Siege Of Malta: Britain's Submarine Ace (Part 2)
Explore Malta's immense strategic significance in WWII as hosts discuss how British forces disrupted Axis plans. Delve into the gripping tales of HMS Upholder, renowned for its daring actions against enemy convoys. The impact of Luftwaffe raids and the bravery of pilots like Adrian Warburton highlight the challenges faced. Experience life under siege in Malta, from civilian hardships to the triumphs of Royal Navy submarines. Discover how these efforts critically shifted the balance in the Mediterranean theater.
Oct 28, 2025 • 54min
The Siege Of Malta: Fortress Malta (Part 1)
Discover the critical role of Malta in WWII and why this tiny island became a key battleground. Explore the strategic value it held in controlling Mediterranean sea lanes. Delve into the initial under-defence of Malta before the war and the scramble for reinforcements. Uncover the dramatic events of the Battle of Calabria and the daring Taranto attack that shifted naval power. Learn how Malta's fighters bravely resisted German assaults, marking the start of a fierce siege. Get ready for Malta’s counteroffensive in the next thrilling chapter!
Oct 22, 2025 • 35min
WW2 British Tank Myths
Discover the surprising truth behind British tank myths and their engineering marvels. Learn about the advantages of British tank steel and the impressive performance of the Matilda II in desert battles. Uncover how the Churchill tank evolved to tackle German giants and the design lineage leading to the groundbreaking Centurion. Delve into the strategic challenges of wartime production priorities and the decision to utilize American Shermans, showing how adaptability shaped success in the British armored forces.
Oct 20, 2025 • 39min
Death In The Mountains: Warning From History
Uncover the chilling aftermath of the Monte Sole massacre, where SS troops ruthlessly executed civilians. Explore the harrowing choices faced by Italian youth in a brutal conflict. Witness the stark landscape of ruined villages and the mass migration that followed the war. Delve into survivors' stories, including Cornelia's painful memories, and confront the complex moral ambiguities of partisans and soldiers. The discussion also touches on the failures of postwar justice and the lasting scars left on communities struggling to rebuild.
Oct 15, 2025 • 56min
Death In The Mountains: Massacre At Monte Sole
Explore the haunting legacy of the Monte Sole massacre, where German forces brutally targeted civilians amid partisan conflict. Listen to firsthand accounts, particularly from Cornelia Perselli, detailing the chilling events at Casaglia cemetery. Delve into the political turmoil and dwindling supplies that plagued the Stella Rossa brigade. Understand the German operational strategies that blurred lines between combatants and civilians, leading to widespread atrocities in a picturesque landscape, now shadowed by memories of horror.
Oct 13, 2025 • 60min
Death In The Mountains: Italy's Robin Hood
Explore the harrowing story of Monte Sole and the infamous Stella Rossa, a partisan group that resisted Nazi occupation in Italy. Discover the motivations behind their bravery, the chilling consequences of betrayal, and the stark contrasts with the better-known French Resistance. Learn about the fierce conditions faced by civilians and how the group took arms, organized raids, and built unity in a chaotic landscape. Unveil the reasons behind the historical obscurity of Italian resistance amid relentless repression and conflict.
Oct 8, 2025 • 21min
Spy Family
Listeners share fascinating family stories from World War II, featuring daring adventures like a miraculous horse ride in Burma and a young US tank commander's harrowing experiences in Europe. Tales of honor emerge, such as a soldier's promise to care for a fallen comrade's sister. Captivating accounts highlight the brutal realities faced by POWs on the Thai-Burma Railway, along with a mysterious secret linked to a flight lieutenant. These captivating narratives bring personal connections to the global conflict.
Oct 6, 2025 • 38min
Bader, Berets, & Apache Helicopters
Explore the intriguing hagiography of RAF ace Sir Douglas Bader and his overblown depiction in popular media. Discover Al's thrilling experience flying an Apache helicopter simulator and insightful findings from his visit to the Army Air Corps. Join the discussion on the myths surrounding the maroon beret and the origins of British airborne forces. Dive into the tactical failures in Malta's air defense, especially regarding the Hurricanes, and consider the strategic impact Spitfires could have made during the campaign.
