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
7 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 59min
Hiroshima: The Manhattan Project
Iain MacGregor, a historian and World War II expert, joins the conversation to unravel the complexities of the Manhattan Project. The discussion delves into the fierce competition to develop the atomic bomb, the pivotal roles played by figures like Oppenheimer and British scientists, and the ethical dilemmas faced during the project. The strategic significance of the B-29 bomber is highlighted, revealing its transformative impact on air tactics. Additionally, the careful selection process for bombing targets, culminating in Hiroshima, emphasizes the monumental decisions behind these historical events.
Aug 4, 2025 • 49min
Burma '45: The Forgotten General
Discover the story of a forgotten general in the Burma campaign and the overlooked legacies of military heroes like Field Marshal Festing. Hear about the challenges faced by the understrength 10th Battalion of the Gloucesters and their heroic transition during brutal conditions. The strategic importance of the Lido Road and emotional anecdotes from the Arakan region unveil the camaraderie among soldiers. Explore how American engineers played a crucial role in supporting the troops with vital airstrips. Relive the intense battles in the Burmese jungle and the resilience of those who fought.
Jul 30, 2025 • 52min
Burma '45: The Race To Rangoon
This discussion dives into the intense race to liberate Rangoon during WWII, pitting Mountbatten against Slim. It highlights Operation Dracula and the strategic challenges faced by the 14th Army amid unforgiving terrain. The podcast reveals Slim's struggles for recognition despite his pivotal victories, and how the Japanese forces resisted surrender under dire conditions. Additionally, it examines the remarkable evolution of the Indian Army from a colonial police force into a crucial fighting unit, shaping the campaign's outcomes.
Jul 28, 2025 • 41min
Burma '45: The Road To Mandalay
The podcast dives into the fierce combat at Mandalay Fort, highlighting the bravery of British forces through the eyes of front-line journalists. It uncovers the contrasting personalities of commanders like Bill Slim and Heitarō Kimura, revealing how leadership styles impact troop morale. The intense battle strategies across Burma are examined, showcasing the unique challenges posed by the jungle terrain and the innovative tactics employed by the Allies. A race against time unfolds as they rush to Rangoon before the monsoon, adding an urgent, gripping layer to the historical narrative.
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
Burma '45: The Master Stroke
Discover how Allied forces, under Bill Slim's command, cleverly deceived Japanese troops in the treacherous landscapes of Burma. Explore the unique challenges of the Burma campaign, from navigating jungles to logistical hurdles faced by the 14th Army. Hear gripping personal narratives from soldiers amidst fierce battles, including the strategic maneuvers at the Thabut Khan airstrip and the pivotal struggle for Mandalay. The blend of military strategy and raw human experience offers an intriguing glimpse into this often-overlooked chapter of World War II.
Jul 21, 2025 • 56min
Burma '45: The Great Gamble
Discover the fierce clashes among Allied commanders as they navigated the treacherous terrains of the Burma campaign. Hear about the chaotic but brilliant strategies that led troops toward Mandalay, and the key leadership styles that drove success. Uncover the harrowing tales of Japanese forces attempting to escape from Ramree Island. The challenges of supplying troops across jungles and rivers add to the drama, as does the extraordinary bravery of soldiers facing harsh conditions. History comes alive with tales of sacrifice and strategic ingenuity.
Jul 16, 2025 • 57min
Burma '45: The Empire Strikes Back
Explore the forgotten victories of the 14th Army in the brutal Burma Campaign of WWII. Discover the harsh realities soldiers faced against not just the Japanese forces, but also the treacherous landscapes. Learn about the resilience of the Indian and West African troops collaborating in pivotal operations. Dive into the contrasting strategies of the British and Japanese empires and the innovations that emerged from chaos, shedding light on the sacrifices and bravery displayed in one of history's toughest campaigns.
14 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 59min
Burma '45: Killer Jungle
Discover the hidden struggles of British and allied forces in Burma during 1944-45. Jungle warfare posed unique challenges, where the elements, diseases, and starvation turned the environment into a formidable foe. The transformation of commanders like Bill Slim led to clever strategies that turned the tide. Explore the mix of harrowing realities and unexpected humor, alongside the intricate political dynamics and the logistical hurdles faced by both sides. This deep dive into a lesser-known campaign reveals the harsh truths and surprising triumphs of the conflict.
22 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 45min
Potsdam: New World Order
Giles Milton, a historian and author of 'Checkmate in Berlin,' joins James Holland and Al Murray to dissect the Potsdam Conference's pivotal role in shaping the post-war world. They delve into the emergence of the Marshall Plan and NATO, as well as the ideological rifts that turned former allies into adversaries. The discussion includes the dynamics of Soviet diplomacy under Stalin, the buildup to the Berlin Airlift, and how these tensions laid the groundwork for the Cold War. It's a captivating journey through history's turning points!
16 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 48min
Potsdam: Origins Of The Cold War
Historian Giles Milton, known for his expertise on the Potsdam Conference and author of 'The Stalin Affair', joins James Holland and Al Murray for an insightful discussion. They dissect how President Truman positioned America as a global leader post-WWII and explore Stalin's manipulative tactics that ultimately catalyzed the Cold War. The transition of power from Churchill to Attlee at the conference and the fraught diplomatic landscapes amongst the superpowers emerge as pivotal themes, revealing the delicate alliances that shaped modern history.
