

History For Weirdos
Andrew & Stephanie
A deep dive into the strange obscure and relentlessly entertaining portions of human history. Married couple and armchair historians, Stephanie & Andrew, discuss the often overlooked parts of humanity. Whether the subject is an obscure event that has confused historians for centuries or a historical figure that doesn't get enough credit, we have you covered.New episodes available every other Monday!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 6min
Episode 151: Tombstone’s Bloody Reckoning - The O.K. Corral Incident and Aftermath
In the heart of Tombstone, Arizona, a gunfight erupted that would echo across history, but the real story of the O.K. Corral is far messier, bloodier, and weirder than the Hollywood versions let on. This week, we dive deep into the tangled web of grudges, rivalries, and outright chaos that led to one of the most infamous shootouts of the American Wild West.
But the O.K. Corral wasn’t the end, it was just the beginning. In this episode, we unravel the bloody aftermath: the revenge killings, the manhunts, and the myth-making that would turn Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday into reluctant legends. We’ll explore how a dusty frontier town became the backdrop for a brutal power struggle, and why the real Tombstone story is far stranger (and far sadder) than you were ever taught.
So holster up, Weirdos! This isn’t your sanitized Wild West. This is Tombstone’s Bloody Reckoning.
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Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇
Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.com
IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos
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Apr 14, 2025 • 2h 25min
Episode 150: Art, Ancient Rome, and Androids - The Weird World of Dr Peter Weller
Have you ever wondered what RoboCop has in common with Renaissance paintings and ancient Roman orators? In this epic episode of History For Weirdos, your hosts Andrew and Stephanie sit down with the legendary actor, historian, and fellow Weirdo Dr. Peter Weller. From his iconic role as RoboCop to his scholarly passion for Italian Renaissance art, Weller takes listeners on a whirlwind adventure through history, art, and pop culture, proving he’s a true Renaissance man himself.Join us as we explore why Giotto di Bondone isn't just another painter: he's a revolutionary artist whose innovations changed visual storytelling forever. Alongside tales from the set of RoboCop and insights into ancient Rome’s enduring impact on today's world, Weller seamlessly connects the dots between seemingly unrelated topics, revealing a universe where art, history, and science fiction collide. This episode isn't just a conversation, it's a journey through the delightfully strange intersections of human history & creativity.You can get Dr Peter Weller's book, "Leon Battista Alberti" here!-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 25min
Episode 149: Potbelly - the Infamous Pharaoh of Ptolemaic Egypt
In this week's episode of History For Weirdos, Andrew and Stephanie journey back to ancient Egypt to explore the bizarre yet captivating story of the infamous pharaoh affectionately—or perhaps mockingly—nicknamed "Potbelly." Known formally as Pharaoh Ptolemy VIII Physcon, his moniker literally translates to "fat belly," but his strange nickname pales in comparison to the disturbing reality of his reign. While undeniably intelligent, displaying strategic political savvy and a keen understanding of governance, his intelligence was overshadowed by his ruthless cruelty and utter lack of charm.Potbelly's rule was marred by scandal, betrayal, and a penchant for violence that made him deeply unpopular among his subjects and contemporaries. From poisoning family members to publicly humiliating rivals, his despotic actions plunged Egypt into turmoil, undermining the very kingdom he sought to control. Yet, his keen mind managed to secure his power repeatedly, displaying a twisted genius in statecraft that kept historians both fascinated and repulsed.Join us as we unpack the enigmatic life of one of ancient Egypt’s most paradoxical rulers. Was Pharaoh Potbelly merely a victim of historical exaggeration, or was he truly as vile and despised as records suggest? Tune in to find out why this despicable pharaoh remains one of history's most intriguingly unpleasant figures-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 29min
Episode 148: The 1954 Guatemalan Coup d'état
Dive into the chaotic 1954 Guatemalan coup, where corporate greed clashed with democratic ideals. Discover how the United Fruit Company manipulated the U.S. into overthrowing a reformist president, painting him as a communist threat during the Red Scare. The impact of this regime change spiraled into a 36-year civil war, raising questions about foreign intervention and morality. Intermixed are humorous personal anecdotes and reflections, enhancing the narrative of political intrigue and the often overlooked consequences of history.

Feb 17, 2025 • 27sec
We're Back!
We're coming back Weirdos! We'll have brand new episodes starting on March 17th (St Patricks Day)! Our first episodes will take you from Ancient Egypt to the CIA and everything in between. Buckle up because ITS ABOUT TO GET WEIRD.We also have a merch store! Check it out here: https://www.redbubble.com/people/HFWPodcast/explore?asc=u&page=1&sortOrder=recent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 28, 2024 • 50min
Episode 147: Was Grace Marks Innocent?
Welcome back, Weirdos to another spine-tingling episode of History for Weirdos! This week, we're unraveling the baffling case of Grace Marks, a young Irish-Canadian maid who found herself entangled in a gruesome double homicide that shocked 19th-century Canada.In 1843, Upper Canada was rocked by the brutal murders of Thomas Kinnear, a wealthy farmer, and his housekeeper, Nancy Montgomery. The prime suspects? None other than the seemingly innocent Grace Marks and her fellow servant, James McDermott. But did this unassuming maid truly play a part in this bloody crime, or was she merely a pawn in a deadly game? Join us as we sift through the conflicting accounts, the whispers of a possible conspiracy, and the psychological labyrinth of a young woman trapped in a web of deceit. Was Grace a cold-blooded killer, a manipulated accomplice, or simply an innocent bystander caught in the wrong place at the wrong time?-This is the last episode we will be airing before our hiatus. Thank you so much for supporting the show, it means the world to us both. We are not sure when we will be back but we need a bit of time to recharge.Until then, stay weird!-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 14, 2024 • 48min
Episode 146: South America's Greatest Liberator - Simon Bolivar
He's been called "The George Washington of South America," but Simón Bolívar was so much more than that! This week on History For Weirdos, we're diving deep into the life and times of this revolutionary figure who led the fight for independence in several South American countries. From his privileged upbringing to his daring military campaigns, we'll uncover the complexities of Bolívar's character and explore the lasting impact he had on the continent. Get ready for tales of battlefield triumphs, political intrigue, and a relentless pursuit of liberty that shaped the destiny of nations.But that's not all, Weirdos! We'll also delve into some of the lesser-known aspects of Bolívar's life, including his rumored love affairs and the bizarre circumstances surrounding his death. Was he truly a visionary leader or a power-hungry dictator? Join us as we unravel the enigma of Simón Bolívar and uncover the truth behind the legend. -Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 20min
Episode 145: The Fantastic Life of Dolores Del Rio
Hey Weirdos! Buckle up for a trip back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, but not the way you remember it from your high school history class. This week, we're digging into the life of Dolores Del Rio, a Mexican actress who became a silent film sensation and one of the biggest stars of the 1920s and 30s. Now, you might be scratching your head wondering why you've never heard of this trailblazing Latina, and that's precisely why we're putting her in the HFW spotlight! Dolores's story is a wild ride of glamour, prejudice, and ultimately, triumph. We're talking scandalous love affairs, political intrigue, and a career that spanned continents and decades.Imagine a time when Hollywood was just finding its footing, and a young woman from Durango, Mexico, arrives on the scene, captivating audiences with her beauty and talent. Dolores defied stereotypes, becoming a symbol of elegance and sophistication during a time when Latinx representation was scarce. But her journey was far from easy. Join us as we uncover the challenges she faced, the triumphs she celebrated, and the lasting impact she had on both Hollywood and Mexican cinema. Get ready to uncover a hidden corner of Hollywood history, as we explore the fascinating and often forgotten life of Dolores Del Rio.-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 30, 2024 • 53min
Episode 144: Interview with Dr Helen Fry - Spies in the World Wars
This week on History For Weirdos, we're diving deep into the shadows of World War I and II with special guest Dr. Helen Fry, a leading expert on espionage and clandestine operations. Dr. Fry unveils the captivating stories of the forgotten heroes who risked everything for their countries, from the daring female spies who infiltrated enemy lines to the ordinary citizens who became resistance fighters. Discover the incredible true tales of these unsung heroes, whose bravery and sacrifice changed the course of history.Join us as we explore the secret world of wartime espionage and resistance, uncovering the remarkable achievements of individuals who operated in the shadows, their contributions often overlooked or intentionally obscured. Dr. Fry sheds light on the crucial roles played by these individuals, from gathering vital intelligence to carrying out daring sabotage missions. Get ready for a thrilling journey into the hidden corners of history, only on History For Weirdos!-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sep 25, 2024 • 1h 14min
[Video] Episode 143: Interview with Norman Ohler - LSD, Nazis and the CIA
*This is the video version of this episode. Available on Spotify only*In this week's special episode of History For Weirdos, we discuss the intersection of LSD, the CIA and the Nazi Party with New York Times bestselling author Norman Ohler. His books, "Blitzed: Drugs in Nazi Germany" & "Tripped: Nazi Germany, the CIA, and the Dawn of the Psychedelic Age" uncover the shocking and pervasive use of drugs throughout Hitler's regime.From methamphetamine-fueled soldiers on the battlefield to the search for a miraculous truth serum, Ohler's meticulously researched book reveals the extent to which narcotics shaped the decisions and actions of Nazi Germany and subsequently the United States. We'll dive into the disturbing details of Hitler's own drug dependency, the mass distribution of performance-enhancing substances to the troops, and the pharmaceutical industry's complicity in fueling this chemical frenzy.Get ready for a mind-bending exploration of the intersection between drugs, power, and war. Ohler's insights will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the darkest chapter in human history. This is one episode you won't want to miss!-Thank you for listening Weirdos! Show the podcast some love by rating & subscribing on whichever platform you use to listen to podcasts.Your support means so much to us. Let's stay in touch 👇Email: historyforweirdos@gmail.comIG/Threads: @historyforweirdosWebsite: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices