
The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War
The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War Podcast is the creation of Seth Paridon and Bill Toti. Seth is a World War II historian with over 20 years experience who's many roles also was serving as a chief historian for The National WWII Museum for 15 years. Bill is not a historian, but is a retired submarine commodore and military planner with a special interest in the Pacific War. Bill has a unique perspective to offer as one who spent more than a decade sailing those same waters where the action in “The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War” took place.
Each week, Bill and Seth dive deep into topics pertaining to the Pacific War during World War II. We dissect the battles, tactics, strategies, and personalities that drove the United States' victory on the largest battlefront in human history.
Seth and Bill bring out the hard facts about the war that resonates deeply today, some 80 years after the war was fought.
New episodes are released on this channel every Tuesday, and the audio versions of each episode are released at the same time everywhere you receive your podcasts. Make sure you subscribe to get notifications of every fresh upload and new show!
If you prefer an audio-only version of “The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War,” it can be heard here:
And for those of you interested in the transition from active duty to industry, Bill’s book “From CO to CEO: A Practical Guide for Transitioning from Military to Industry Leadership” is available in hardback at Amazon and other resellers, in eBook format on Kindle and Apple, and in audiobook format on Audible.
Latest episodes

Sep 27, 2022 • 58min
Hit and Run
The podcast discusses the intense pressure on Admiral Nimitz to strike back after the loss of Wake Island, the mutinous talk among the fleet, King's desire for 'Hit and Run' raids, and the strategic significance of surprise attacks on Japanese bases. It also explores the psychological impact of naval attacks and the importance of early raids in weakening the Japanese Navy during World War II.

Sep 20, 2022 • 35min
A Discussion on Fleet Admiral Nimitz, with special guest Admiral James Stavridis
A discussion on Fleet Admiral Nimitz, covering his leadership style, innovative strategies, and ability to manage diverse personalities. Highlights include his advancements in naval technology, delegation skills, and relationships with other admirals. A look at his pivotal role in the Pacific War and his influence on naval operations.

Sep 13, 2022 • 1h 10min
The Legend of Dugout Doug
The podcast discusses General MacArthur's controversial legacy, highlighting his ego and questionable decisions. It explores his disobedience of orders and scandalous personal life. The show also delves into political controversies in the Philippines and MacArthur's return during the Pacific War. It contrasts MacArthur's leadership style with Eisenhower post-World War II and discusses his dismissal during the Korean War. Reflections on Admiral Nimitz's leadership are also explored.

Sep 6, 2022 • 53min
Fall of the Philippines and Japanese Blitzkrieg
Explore the reasons behind the Japanese invasion of the Philippines, the unpreparedness of American forces, MacArthur's flawed strategies, and the devastating consequences of the Japanese blitzkrieg. Reflect on the challenges faced by the military leadership, the rapid advance of Japanese forces, and the contrasting outcomes for General Short and General Sutherland during World War II.

Aug 30, 2022 • 57min
Pearl Harbor: Inevitable or Preventable?
-Historians often cite Japanese expansionism, imperialism, what have you, for their desire to attack Pearl Harbor. Others say it the United States’ embargos that led to the attack. Which was it? And could there have been another alternative to Kido Butai flinging airplanes at the sleeping American Pacific fleet? -There were many warnings about the impending attack before the first aircraft dropped their ordnance. What were some of those warnings? What, if any, actions could of/should have been taken? -After the attack, the US government needed scapegoats. They had to pin the blame on their overall intelligence failure on anybody but themselves, and so they harpooned both Army General Walter Short, and Navy Admiral Husband Kimmel. Who were these guys, what were their respective roles and were they actually to blame for the entire attack? Were they to blame for anything? What should they have done prior to the attack? Were they aware of any real threat? -The actual attack on Pearl Harbor was a military feat in its own right. Who was the planner? Why was attacking PH such a risk militarily? -Let’s talk about the opposing forces…Japanese planning, skill and execution versus American response…https://williamtoti.com

Aug 23, 2022 • 2min
The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War (Trailer 1)
This is just the trailer.