The Explorers Podcast

In 399 AD, a determined Chinese monk named Faxian set off on a 13-year quest to find sacred Buddhist texts in India. His journey took him through 30 kingdoms, revealing the rich tapestry of early Buddhism. Along the way, he faced numerous challenges and documented his experiences, offering a unique perspective on the faith's growth. His observations from the flourishing kingdom of Udjana provide insight into the spiritual dialogues of the time, showcasing the profound impact of his monumental quest on Buddhism's spread to China.

This is an ad-free, bonus episode from History Dispatches. Sidi Mubarak Bombay grew up a slave - taken from his home in Africa to India. But that didn't stop him from being one of the most accomplished explorers and travelers of Central Africa. Over a period of 20 years, Bombay traveled with some of the most famous African explorers, including Richard Francis Burton, Henry Morton Stanley, David Livingston, and Richard Speke. This a look at his extraordinary his life.This episode does not replace the regular schedule of Explorers Podcast episodes. A new regular episode will be out next week. History Dispatches is a new daily history show hosted by Explorers Podcast creator Matt Breen and his son, McKinley Breen. The show covers people, places, events and even objects from throughout history. The show offers short, fun and easily digestible bits of history goodness. History Dispatches comes out every weekday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final chapter in our series on William Adams, we details the opening of Japan to the Dutch and English, as well as the final years of the man's remarkable life.Check out History Dispatches at HistoryDispatches.comSponsor: Go to www.amazfit.com/EXPLORERS to save 10%.The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.comInterested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

William Adams' journey from English mariner to key advisor at the Tokugawa court unfolds with surprising twists. He navigates the complexities of Japanese politics after a decisive victory, earning the title of Hatamoto, or bannerman. His ambitious shipbuilding project solidifies his status, while he grapples with themes of loyalty and cultural identity. As tensions rise with European rivals, his influence in shaping trade relations with merchants highlights his remarkable legacy in Japan's history.

Discover the intriguing story of a small brass plate found near San Francisco, rumored to be linked to Francis Drake's 1579 expedition. Unravel the excitement and skepticism surrounding its authenticity. Delve into the historical implications of this relic's potential forgery and the exploration challenges faced along the California coast. Learn about the fascinating details of old maps and how they shaped perceptions of the area's visibility. This captivating tale blends exploration with deception in a delightful historical adventure.

English pilot William Adams has led his ship to Japan. But in this episode, he and his men - wracked by starvation and scurvy - must now negotiate the various powers of this exotic land. There are the Japanese warlords, the Portuguese, and the Jesuits, who all would like nothing more than to see Adams and his comrades executed. But there are other elements who have interest in the strangers - including the land's most powerful lord - Tokugawa Ieyasu. It will fall on Adams to find a way out of the dangerous situation he and his fellow crewmen face. And if that means going to war - so be it. Check out History Dispatches at HistoryDispatches.comSponsor: Go to www.amazfit.com/EXPLORERS to save 10%.The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.comInterested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1598, a fleet of five ships from the Dutch East India Company sailed to South America with the intention of plundering Spanish treasure ships on the western coast of the New World - before heading across the Pacific to Asia. One of those ships - with 24 men (out of nearly 500) - reached Japan nearly two years later, led by an English Pilot named William Adams. It is the unlikely start of a journey that will see Adams become the first European to be granted the status of Samurai. Adams' story has been popularized with the novel Shogun and two television series of the same name. Sponsor: Go to www.amazfit.com/EXPLORERS to save 10%.The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.comInterested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join renowned Norwegian polar explorer Erling Kagge, the first person to conquer the Three Poles Challenge on foot. He shares captivating tales from his daring expeditions to the North and South Poles and Everest, highlighting the emotional and physical hurdles he faced. Kagge also dives into the pressing environmental challenges of the Arctic and the complex legacy of historical explorers. With a blend of humor and philosophical insights, he inspires listeners to pursue their own adventurous dreams while reflecting on themes of self-discovery.

In the final episode in our series on Amundsen, the last viking sets out on one final polar adventure - an attempt to rescue a man he hated - Umberto Nobile - after his dirigible crashed in the Arctic. Amundsen would not return from the flight. Sponsor: Go to www.amazfit.com/EXPLORERS to save 10%.The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.comInterested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1926, Roald Amundsen’s ambitious Arctic adventure aboard the Norge dirigible kicks off a fierce rivalry with Italian airship designer Umberto Nobile. The preparations reveal personal and professional challenges, including financial struggles and emerging romances. As they navigate perilous Arctic conditions, tensions rise between Norwegian and Italian crews. After the historic flight, communication issues and clashing expectations lead to dramatic confrontations, showcasing the complexity of teamwork in the face of adversity.