

The Explorers Podcast
Matt Breen
The Explorers Podcast is about the greatest explorers and explorations in history.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 12, 2024 • 36min
Freya Stark - Part 4 - Treasure Hunting in Luristan
Explorer and author Freya Stark ventures into western Persia on a treasure hunt for bronze relics in Luristan. She faces obstacles, encounters looted grave sites, engages with locals, and navigates dangerous mountains. Stark's triumphs and personal struggles are also explored, shedding light on her adventurous life.

Feb 5, 2024 • 32min
Freya Stark - Part 3 - The Lost Assassin Fortress and Solomon's Throne
Freya Stark explores the lost fortress of the Order of Assassins and falls ill with malaria. She encounters a doctor in a remote area and faces challenges on her journey. Learn about Stark's adventurous expeditions and her role in World War II.

Jan 23, 2024 • 33min
Freya Stark - Part 2 - The Valley of the Assassins
Freya Stark embarks on a journey to the Valley of the Assassins, explores the history of the Order of Assassins, forms connections with locals, maps the area, and receives recognition for her work.

Jan 15, 2024 • 40min
Freya Stark - Part 1 - Early life and the lands of the Druze
British explorer Freya Stark's early life and adventures are explored in this episode. Topics include her near-death experience, her time as a nurse in WWI, and her journey into the forbidden lands of the Druze in Syria.

Jan 2, 2024 • 35min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 6 - Legacy
In this podcast, the final episode on Alexander Von Humboldt, we explore his epic book 'Kosmos' and his significant legacy. Humboldt's influence in the Prussian court, his multidisciplinary approach and the impact of his work on American writers and naturalists are also discussed.

Dec 27, 2023 • 29min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 5 - Russia
Alexander von Humboldt embarks on his last expedition to Russia, despite restrictions, venturing off the beaten track for 2,000 miles. He explores the Ural Mountains, reaches China, and faces challenging conditions. The chapter also discusses Humboldt's works after the expedition and his preparations for his ambitious project, Cosmos.

Dec 11, 2023 • 36min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 4 - Mexico and the United States
Alexander von Humboldt explores New Spain and visits Thomas Jefferson in the United States. Upon his return to Europe, his findings have a significant impact and inspire scientific breakthroughs. It also covers the harrowing experiences of others and his failed attempts to explore Asia.

Dec 5, 2023 • 31min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 3 - The Andes Mountains
Alexander von Humboldt, a renowned scientist and explorer, shares captivating tales from his journeys in South America. He describes his trek over the Andes Mountains, where he studied volcanoes and developed revolutionary ideas about nature's interconnectedness. Humboldt highlights his encounters with ancient Incan ruins and the challenges posed by volatile weather during his expeditions. His commitment to scientific collaboration and observations of slavery further enrich the narrative, illustrating his significant impact on natural history and geography.

Nov 21, 2023 • 36min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 2 - The Orinoco Expedition
Alexander von Humboldt, a groundbreaking explorer and scientist, shares thrilling tales from his expedition up the Orinoco River. He dives into the legend of the Casiquiare canal and reflects on the ethical concerns surrounding slavery, which fueled his advocacy for human rights. Humboldt also discusses his ecological insights, noting the destructive impact of deforestation on water levels. With a mixture of adventure and danger, he recounts encounters with wildlife and the invaluable knowledge gained from indigenous peoples, illuminating humanity's connection to nature.

4 snips
Nov 7, 2023 • 34min
Alexander von Humboldt - Part 1
In this podcast, we learn about Alexander von Humboldt - the 'Father of Ecology'. We explore his early life, his ambitions, and his desire to travel. We get insights into his struggles in securing transportation for his expedition and his successful evasion of the British blockade. Finally, we discover his decision to go to Venezuela and his interactions with the Guaciria people.


