WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk

The discussion takes a daring look at Trump's provocative admiration for WWII generals, questioning the nature of loyalty in leadership. Historical parallels reveal how rhetoric can manipulate allegiance to authoritarian figures. The analysis dives into military strategy during Operation Barbarossa, contrasting German commanders' tactics with broader failures. Contemporary geopolitical tensions echo past conflicts, urging a reevaluation of defense spending and leadership lessons from WWII, especially in the face of rising global challenges.

Al Murray, James Holland and John McManus conclude the horrific tale of the Hurtgen Forest.The violence of the German woodlands was a huge factor in the execution of Eddie Slovik, but also the works of J.D Salinger. What exactly happened there?A Goalhanger ProductionProduced by Joey McCarthy & Becky HillsExec Producer: Tony PastorSocial: @WeHaveWaysPodEmail: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.comJoin our ‘Independent Company’ to watch our livestreams, get earlybird tickets and our weekly newsletter - packed with deals.Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this insightful discussion, John McManus, a leading expert on the Battle of Hürtgen Forest, navigates the tumultuous terrain of one of WWII's longest battles. He highlights the brutal challenges faced by soldiers, including traumatic injuries and the chaos of combat in winter 1944. McManus delves into U.S. First Army leadership under General Courtney Hodges, the strategic difficulties posed by the forest's landscape, and the grim reality of soldier survival amid absurd warfare. The conversation vividly captures the struggle for morale and the harsh experiences on both sides.

Join Al Murray and James Holland as they dive deep into the thrilling final chapter of their series on SAS operations in France during 1944.How did these elite troops cut off retreating Panzers, sabotage fuel supplies, and work with local resistance? Discover the fast-paced, high-risk missions that showcased the SAS's agility, courage, and growing confidence in disrupting the enemy.A Goalhanger productionProduced by Joey McCarthy & Alice HorrellExec Producer: Tony PastorSocial: @WeHaveWaysPodEmail: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.comJoin our ‘Independent Company’ to watch our livestreams, get earlybird tickets and our weekly newsletter - packed with deals.Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Petch, a World War II SAS expert, joins Al Murray and James Holland to delve into the audacious missions of the SAS in 1944 France. They discuss Operation Titanic, uncovering its deceptive tactics and the fierce firefights that ensued. Petch shares gripping insights into the bravery and sacrifices of SAS operatives, revealing the harsh realities they faced behind enemy lines. The conversation also highlights the strategic impact of these covert operations on the broader Allied efforts, showcasing the pivotal role of the SAS in turning the tide of the war.

In this engaging discussion, Tom Petch, an SAS expert and author, shares insights from his time as a member of the elite unit. He highlights the fascinating origins of Britain’s Special Air Service and its pivotal role in the Overlord campaign. Listeners will learn about groundbreaking tactics used in guerilla warfare, the challenges faced against enemy forces, and the complex dynamics of collaborating with the French resistance. Petch’s firsthand experiences illuminate the evolution of military strategies during a tumultuous time in history.

Richard Grace, a celebrated pilot and WW2 Warbird restoration expert, shares his passion for aviation and the art of restoring historic aircraft. He recounts his meticulous work on iconic planes like the Spitfire and Tempest, drawing parallels between restoring aircraft and classic cars. Grace discusses the challenges of maintaining complex WWII engines and the joy of air shows, highlighting the excitement of bringing vintage planes back to life. His heartfelt reminiscences showcase the deep bonds formed within the aviation community.

In a dramatic finale to our Guernsey series, Al Murray and James Holland tour the most bizarre Nazi relic on the island - the Underground Hospital.This concrete complex of tunnels, ammunition stores and sick bays has laid dormant for 80 years - having hardly ever been used by the Third Reich.Is this 'haunted' hospital the ultimate testament to Hitler's madness?A Goalhanger ProductionProduced by Nathan Copelin & Joey McCarthyExec Producer: Tony PastorSocial: @WeHaveWaysPodEmail: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.comJoin our ‘Independent Company’ to watch our livestreams, get earlybird tickets and our weekly newsletter - packed with deals.Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During the German occupation of the Channel Islands, a series of mammoth concrete defences were built as a part of the Atlantic Wall. Al Murray and James Holland are joined by Steve Powell of 'Festung Guernsey' to tour around Battery Mirus, an enormous gun placement. A Goalhanger ProductionProduced by Joey McCarthyExec Producer: Tony PastorSocial: @WeHaveWaysPodEmail: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.comJoin our ‘Independent Company’ to watch our livestreams, get earlybird tickets and our weekly newsletter - packed with deals.Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Al Murray and James Holland investigate the incredible untold story of the Nazi invasion of the Channel Isles.Why did Whitehall declare the Channel Islands a demilitarised zone, how were locals treated - and was it even worth it?A Goalhanger ProductionProduced by Joey McCarthyExec Producer: Tony PastorSocial: @WeHaveWaysPodEmail: wehavewayspodcast@gmail.comJoin our ‘Independent Company’ to watch our livestreams, get earlybird tickets and our weekly newsletter - packed with deals.Membership Club: patreon.com/wehaveways Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices