The Explorers Podcast

Matt Breen
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11 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 37min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 2 - The Discovery Expedition

In part 2 of our series, Scott leads the Discovery to Antarctica. The expedition will explore the area around McMurdo Sound, as well as the Great Ice Barrier. There will be adventures and discoveries as well. Then, in the winter of 1902, Scott will plan an journey into the continent's interior - which could lead to a go at the South Pole. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Dec 16, 2025 • 37min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 1

Discover the early life of Robert Falcon Scott, from his naval beginnings to his pivotal role in Antarctic exploration. Delve into the motivations driving nations to stake their claims in this uncharted territory. Learn about the influence of Sir Clements Markham in appointing Scott to lead the Discovery Expedition. Explore the scientific ambitions and funding struggles behind the journey, and uncover the dynamics between naval command and scientific leadership as the expedition takes shape.
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5 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 2min

The Polynesians

Around 1,000 AD, Polynesians embarked on incredible oceanic journeys across the South Pacific, showcasing extraordinary navigation skills without modern tools. The cultural unity across islands is surprising, especially explored through oral histories and genealogies. Discover the intriguing evidence of contact with South America and the environmental impacts of colonization. Delve into the debate on navigation techniques, from deliberate wayfinding to accidental drift, and celebrate the revival of ancient voyaging traditions that continue to inspire today.
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23 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 28min

Nero's Nile Expedition

The podcast dives into the fascinating 61 AD journey commanded by Emperor Nero to explore the Nile. Discover why Rome was enamored with Egypt and what motivated Nero's ambitious expedition. Learn about the expedition's composition, challenges faced navigating the Nile, and the remarkable encounters with local wildlife. The tale includes an intriguing meeting with the Kushite ruler and the decision to venture toward the White Nile. It also contemplates whether they truly reached the Nile's source and examines the expedition's lasting impact on Roman-Kush relations.
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9 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 25min

The Vivaldi Brothers and the first attempt to sail from Europe to India via the Cape Route

Discover the daring 1291 voyage of Genoese brothers Vandino and Ugolino Vivaldi, who attempted to reach India by sailing around Africa. Learn why Europeans sought this perilous sea route, fueled by rising trade prices and competition with Venice. Delve into their expedition's plans, mundane supplies, and the limits of navigation technology. Explore theories of their disappearance and later myths intertwining their tale with legendary figures like Prester John. Was a search mission ever launched for them? The legacy of their adventure remains a fascinating mystery.
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13 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 51min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 5 – A conversation with Hubert Sagnières

In a captivating conversation, Hubert Sagnières, an author and explorer renowned for his book 'For Glory, Not Gold,' shares his passion for Arctic exploration. He highlights the allure of the Northwest Passage, influenced by British curiosity and historical figures like John Barrow. Hubert discusses his unique scrapbook-driven book format featuring rare illustrations and Inuit encounters. He reflects on the modern explorer's role in climate reporting and emphasizes the continuous quest for knowledge, drawing inspiration from both historical and contemporary adventurers.
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4 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 34min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 4 – The Passage Conquered

Captain Robert McClure and his crew navigate their way through the treacherous Northwest Passage using sledge journeys for supplies. Winter onboard is lightened by theatrical performances and lectures to boost morale. Tensions rise as they face challenges like discovering missing journals and dealing with the effects of evacuation orders. The return to England is met with public acclaim, but McClure faces a court-martial. The podcast explores the expedition's legacy, including the tragic fate of Franklin's crew and the eventual find of the Investigator wreck.
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Sep 30, 2025 • 38min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 3 – Across the Passage

The HMS Investigator fights to survive two winters at Mercy Bay as the physical and mental health of the crew slowly starts to deteriorate. A desperate journey over the ice is planned - but the crew are saved by the arrival of men from the east - from the HMS Resolute. Enter to win a copy of "For Glory, Not Gold: Expeditions Through Arctic Lands 1818-1876" by Hubert Sagnières. Go to https://explorerspodcast.com/hms-investigator to sign up. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/explorers Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 23, 2025 • 35min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 2 – The Parry Channel and Mercy Bay

In part 2 of our series, the HMS Investigator explores the areas around Banks Island and Victoria Island, before sailing into the Parry Channel - the eastern entrance to the Northwest Passage. They will end the year at Mercy Bay - a place the ship will never leave. Enter to win a copy of "For Glory, Not Gold: Expeditions Through Arctic Lands 1818-1876" by Hubert Sagnières. Go to https://explorerspodcast.com/hms-investigator to sign up. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/explorers Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Sep 11, 2025 • 35min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 1 – Into the Arctic

In part 1 of our series, we look at the history of the search for the Northwest Passage, and the Lost Franklin Expedition. We then follow Captain Robert McClure as he leads the Investigator into the Canadian Arctic Archipelago in 1850. Enter to win a copy of "For Glory, Not Gold: Expeditions Through Arctic Lands 1818-1876" by Hubert Sagnières. Go to https://explorerspodcast.com/hms-investigator to sign up. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/explorers Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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