

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

May 6, 2024 • 45min
Episode 130: The Mysterious Mary Celeste
Welcome to another episode of "History For Weirdos" where Stephanie plunges into one of the sea’s most haunting mysteries—the enigmatic tale of the Mary Celeste. Found adrift in the Atlantic on December 4, 1872, this ghost ship was discovered in a perfectly seaworthy condition, yet eerily devoid of all crew. With the ship’s cargo intact and the crew's personal belongings left undisturbed, the mystery of the Mary Celeste presents a perplexing maritime puzzle that has baffled historians and inspired countless theories. Join us as we sail through the foggy details and try to piece together what might have happened to the crew of this forsaken vessel.In this episode, we'll explore the events leading up to the ship's strange discovery, including the final entries in the ship's log and the weather conditions at the time. We'll dive into the various theories that have surfaced over the years—from piracy and insurance fraud to aliens and alcoholic fumes from the cargo. By reviewing the evidence and weighing the credibility of each theory, we aim to provide a fresh perspective on this century-old maritime mystery. So, set your sails with us as we attempt to uncover the truth behind the ghostly voyage of the Mary Celeste.-**Join our Patreon🎉 Click here to sign up!**-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

Apr 20, 2024 • 1h 12min
Episode 129: Cannabis History with David Bienenstock
In this special episode of History For Weirdos, we have a very special guest for April 20th (4/20), a cannabis / marijuana journalist and historian who has covered everything about the plant for almost twenty years!David Bienenstock is the author of "How to Smoke Pot (Properly): A Highbrow Guide to Getting High" (Penguin / Random House), and creator/host of the popular podcast "Great Moments in Weed History."Previously, he served as Head of Content at HIGH TIMES and was a producer at VICE Media, where he created the video series Bong Appetit, including viral episodes like "A Gourmet Weed Dinner at Hunter S. Thompson's House" and "Marijuana Nonna."A contributor to VICE, Leafly, GQ, the Guardian, and other publications, he has been profiled by The New Yorker, Vanity Fair, The Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, LA Weekly, Slate, and elsewhere, while making frequent media appearances, including on CNN, NPR, MSNBC, HBO and Fox News.We hope you enjoy this special episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Apr 15, 2024 • 41min
Episode 128: The Roswell Incident
In this spine-tingling episode of History For Weirdos, we’re diving deep into the dusty files of the Roswell incident, the UFO phenomenon that sparked an avalanche of conspiracy theories and stoked the fires of extraterrestrial enthusiasts for decades. Join Andrew as he peels back the layers of mystery surrounding the strange events of July 1947. From the first crumpled pieces of debris on a secluded New Mexico ranch to the U.S. Air Force's flip-flopping explanations and the chilling testimonies of those who were there, we’re exploring every angle of this enigmatic tale.Was it a weather balloon, a top-secret military experiment, or something not of this Earth? We scrutinize the original claims, the subsequent cover-ups, and the peculiar remnants that some say couldn't possibly belong to our world. Featuring the haunting stories of firefighter Dan Dwyer and his daughter Frankie Rowe, this episode promises to leave you questioning what really happened on that fateful day. Tune in, as we uncover the obscured threads of one of the most baffling events in American history. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and theories with us—because at History For Weirdos, the stranger, the better!-**Join our Patreon🎉 Click here to sign up!**-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

Apr 8, 2024 • 49min
Episode 127: America's Most Haunted Sanitorium - Waverly Hills
We're kicking off Paranormal April with an episode dedicated to one of the most haunted buildings in North America: The Waverly Hills Sanatorium.Nestled atop a secluded hill in Kentucky, this monumental structure once served as a beacon of hope for tuberculosis patients during the early 20th century. Through a blend of historical insights and captivating narratives, we'll explore the sanatorium's inception, its innovative yet haunting treatments, and the societal impact it had during its peak. Uncover the tales of perseverance and tragedy that echo through its abandoned halls, painting a picture of an era grappling with a health crisis.But the story doesn't end with the closing of its medical wards. As night falls, the shadows of Waverly Hills whisper of unresolved spirits and unexplained phenomena, making it a hotspot for paranormal investigators and thrill-seekers. Stephanie and Andrew will delve into the chilling accounts of hauntings that have propelled this former sanatorium into the limelight of the supernatural. From the legendary tunnel known as the "death chute" to the ghostly appearances in the children's ward, we'll sift through the myths and eyewitness reports that have solidified Waverly Hills' reputation as one of the most haunted places in America. Tune in, if you dare, to a journey through history and beyond, where the past is anything but forgotten.-**Join our Patreon🎉 Click here to sign up!**-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

Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 14min
Episode 126: The Woman Who Would Be King - Pharaoh Hatshepsut
In this episode of "History For Weirdos," Andrew takes you on a journey back to ancient Egypt, to uncover the story of one of history's most intriguing figures: Hatshepsut, the woman who dared to become pharaoh. In a society dominated by men, her ascent to the throne was nothing short of revolutionary. Through a blend of storytelling and historical analysis, we delve into Hatshepsut's early life, her unconventional rise to power, and her ambitious reign that transformed Egypt. From her strategic maneuverings within the royal court to her divine coronation, this episode explores the complexities and challenges she faced in securing and legitimizing her rule.But Hatshepsut's story is not just one of power; it's also a tale of architectural marvels and artistic innovation. The highlight of her reign, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, or Djeser-Djeseru, stands as a testament to her vision and determination. We explore the significance of her building projects, from the towering obelisks of Karnak to the serene splendor of her mortuary temple, and how these structures were meant to immortalize her legacy. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of Hatshepsut's reign, her deliberate erasure from history by her successors, and her lasting impact on the world of ancient Egypt. This episode is a tribute to the woman who became king and the indelible mark she left on history, proving that the past is not only stranger than we imagine, but stranger than we can imagine.-**Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up!**-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 18, 2024 • 59min
Episode 125: Joan of Arc, Teen General and Saint
In this electrifying episode of History For Weirdos, Stephanie embarks on a journey back to the tumultuous times of the Hundred Years' War to unravel the enigmatic tale of Joan of Arc, the Maid of Orléans. Known for her pivotal role in lifting the siege of Orléans and leading the French to several crucial victories, Joan's story is one that blends mysticism, bravery, and controversy into the fabric of history. But beyond her battlefield exploits, lies a tale of a young woman whose visions and determination challenged the conventions of her time, making her a figure of both inspiration and contention. Dive deep with us as we explore the lesser-known aspects of Joan's life, from her humble beginnings in France, to her extraordinary claims of divine guidance, and her tragic end at the stake. What drove a teenage peasant girl to lead an army and crown a king? How did she navigate the treacherous waters of politics and war as a woman in a man-dominated society? And what can her legacy teach us about faith, courage, and the struggle for justice? Join Stephanie and Andrew on History For Weirdos as they shed light on the mysteries surrounding the saint, the warrior, and the legend that is Joan of Arc. - **Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up!** - 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.com IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos Website: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 12, 2024 • 48min
Episode 124: The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Disaster of 1911
In this riveting episode of "History For Weirdos," Andrew plunges into the heart of one of the most catastrophic industrial disasters in American history—the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911. As flames engulfed a New York City garment factory, 146 lives were tragically cut short, most of them young immigrant women. This episode doesn't just recount the harrowing details of the fire itself but peels back the layers of an era, revealing the dire working conditions that led to such a devastating loss. Through the smoke and ashes of tragedy, we explore how this event became a pivotal moment, igniting a crusade for labor reform and safety standards. Dive deep with Andrew and Stephanie as they weave together the stories of courage, tragedy, and resilience that emerged from the inferno. From the eyewitnesses and heroes to the public outrage that followed, this episode of "History For Weirdos" examines the legacy of the fire that reshaped the American labor movement. The episode not only honors the memory of those lost but also celebrates the spirit of change that rose from their sacrifice. Join us on this historical journey as we uncover the lessons learned and the ongoing relevance of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in today's discussions on workers' rights and safety. Don't miss this compelling episode that brings to light the stories of the past to inspire a better future! - **Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up!** - 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.com IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos Website: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 4, 2024 • 58min
Episode 123: Florence Nightingale - The Lady with the Lamp
Florence Nightingale was a nurse, social reformer, and statistician who revolutionized healthcare in the 19th century. Born into a privileged British family, Nightingale defied societal expectations to pursue nursing education in Germany and France. Her pivotal moment came during the Crimean War when she transformed military hospitals through improved hygiene practices. In this week’s episode, we take a close and nuanced look at Nightengale’s legacy. Beyond her battlefield innovations, Florence Nightingale's impact extended far into the realms of public health and statistics. Known affectionately as "The Lady with the Lamp" for her night rounds to aid the wounded, Nightingale introduced the use of statistical analysis to advocate for healthcare reform, effectively founding modern nursing. This week, Stephanie and Andrew will explore how Nightingale's work laid the foundation for professional nursing, her pioneering use of data visualization, including the invention of the pie chart, and her relentless fight for social reform. Join us on "History For Weirdos" as we uncover the layers of Nightingale's contributions to healthcare and society, shedding light on the depths of her influence that goes beyond her iconic lamp. - **Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up!** - 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.com IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos Website: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 26, 2024 • 48min
Episode 122: The One-Eyed Queen vs The Roman Empire
In this riveting episode of "History For Weirdos," we strap on our sandals and march back in time to the sun-baked lands of ancient Kush, where the indomitable Queen (Kandake) Amanirenas dared to stare down the eagle banners of Rome. With her one good eye, she saw through the imperial ambitions of Augustus and led her people in a bold campaign that would etch her name in the annals of history as the One-Eyed Queen who challenged an empire. Join us, Andrew and Stephanie, as we unearth the tale of this fearless leader, whose story is shrouded in mystery, battle scars, and a peace treaty that left Rome with a taste of Kushite steel. But Amanirenas' saga is more than just a tale of conflict; it's a story of resilience, leadership, and the enduring spirit of a queen who ruled with both heart and iron fist. From the depths of tragedy to the heights of diplomacy, we delve into what made Queen Amanirenas a legend in her own time and why her legacy deserves a spotlight in the often overlooked chapters of history. So, if you're a history buff with a penchant for the peculiar or simply in search of a story that proves reality can outshine fiction, you won't want to miss this episode of "History For Weirdos." Grab your headphones and let's dive into the past together, where the weird and wonderful await. - **Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up! The first 25 Super and Ultimate Weirdos get a free gift so make sure you do it ASAP** - 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.com IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos Website: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 19, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 121: Balto the Hero & Rin Tin Tin the Film Star
**Our Patreon is now live🎉 Click here to sign up! The first 25 Super and Ultimate Weirdos get a free gift so make sure you do it ASAP** - In this special two-part episode of "History For Weirdos," join your favorite armchair historians, Stephanie and Andrew, as we mush into the heart of the frozen Alaskan wilderness to uncover the tale of Balto, the sled dog whose bravery and determination saved the children of Nome from a diphtheria outbreak in 1925. This episode isn't just a story about a dog; it's a gripping adventure of survival, heroism, and the incredible bond between humans and animals. We'll explore the treacherous conditions Balto and his team faced, the controversy that followed their heroic journey, and how this four-legged hero became an enduring symbol of courage and loyalty. Then, shift gears with us as we trot down the red carpet to shine the spotlight on Rin Tin Tin, the German Shepherd who leapt from the battlefields of World War I to become one of the biggest film stars of the early 20th century. Discover how this canine hero captured the hearts of millions and helped save Warner Bros from bankruptcy, becoming an icon of resilience and the American spirit. We delve into the rags-to-riches story of Rin Tin Tin, exploring the fascinating life of his owner, Lee Duncan, and how a dog found in a bombed-out kennel became an international superstar. Tune in for a tale of fame, fortune, and the unbreakable bond between a dog and his human that transcended the silver screen. - 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.com IG/Threads: @historyforweirdos Website: historyforweirdos.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices