Origin Story
Podmasters
What are the real stories behind the most misunderstood and abused ideas in politics? From Conspiracy Theory to Woke to Centrism and beyond, Ian Dunt and Dorian Lynskey dig into the astonishing secret histories of concepts you thought you knew.Want to support us in making future seasons? There are now two ways you can help out:• Patreon – Get early episodes, live Zooms, merchandise and more from just £5 per month.• Apple Podcasts – Want everything in one place with one easy payment? Subscribe to our premium feed on Apple Podcasts for ad-free shows early and bonus editions too.From Podmasters, the makers of Oh God, What Now?, American Friction and The Bunker.
Episodes
Mentioned books
15 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 32min
Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin – Part Two – Power
In the midst of the Russian Civil War, a small Bolshevik party faces overwhelming chaos and internal strife. The podcast dives into the critical moments that shaped a dictatorship from revolutionary ideals, including the suppression of dissent and the brutal establishment of the Cheka. The struggle for power among Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin reveals the dark twists of history, as Stalin rises through manipulation, leaving Trotsky in exile. The complexities of war, famine, and political terror showcase the grim reality of a nascent socialist state.
48 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 31min
Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin – Part One – Revolution
Dive into the tumultuous world of early Soviet leaders as Lenin’s radicalization unfolds following his brother’s execution. Explore the contentious split between the Bolsheviks and Mensheviks, showcasing Lenin's ruthless tactics and Trotsky's charismatic emergence. Discover how World War I shattered the socialist movement and led to the rise of Lenin's authoritarian vision. With compelling discussions on Rosa Luxemburg's humane socialism versus Leninism, this narrative highlights the fragile balance of power and ideologies that shaped a revolution.
110 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 23min
Karl Marx – Part Two – The Father
This discussion delves into Marx's tumultuous life in London, revealing his financial struggles and the support from Friedrich Engels. The hosts reflect on the fierce intellectual battles he fought, particularly against rival socialists and Bakunin. They explore the mixed legacy of his magnum opus, 'Capital,' its revolutionary concepts, and the eventual misinterpretations that emerged afterward. The analysis highlights how Marx's predictions often faltered amid evolving social reforms, illustrating the complex intertwining of his ideas with history.
71 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 29min
Karl Marx – Part One – The Fighter
Delve into the life and ideas of Karl Marx, a figure whose intellect sparked fierce debates. Explore his transformation from German philosopher to a revolutionary journalist as he faced academic rejection. Hear about his fiery personality, notorious feuds, and the philosophical foundations laid by Hegel that shaped his thinking. Discover how the Communist Manifesto emerged amid European revolutions and its lasting impact, while examining the dynamics of class struggle and Marx's thoughts on capitalism, ideology, and history.
99 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 1h 32min
The Birth of Socialism – A Better World is Possible
Dive into the captivating evolution of socialism, exploring its roots from the French Revolution to modern interpretations. Discover radical thinkers like Gracchus Babeuf, advocating for absolute equality, and Henri de Saint-Simon, who envisioned a scientific utopia. Learn about Charles Fourier's colorful critiques of monotonous labor and Robert Owen's real-world cooperative experiments. The conversation also unpacks the failures of utopian communes, the emergence of anarchism, and how these ideas shaped later movements in politics.
11 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
The British Chinese – Hidden generations
Dive into the hidden history of the British Chinese community, revealing their significant yet overlooked contributions to British society. Discover the journey from the establishment of London's first Chinatown to the challenges of racism faced during the wars. Uncover the evolution of perceptions around Chinese migrants and the socio-economic impact of their culinary contributions. The conversation critiques simplistic views of multiculturalism, advocating for a richer narrative that honors the diversity within this resilient community.
45 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 26min
Rivers of Blood – How Enoch Powell poisoned Britain
The podcast dives into Enoch Powell's infamous 'Rivers of Blood' speech, revealing its shocking impact on British politics. It explores Powell's transformation from a brilliant scholar to a polarizing figure in race and immigration debates. Listeners learn how the speech sparked right-wing populism and continues to resonate today. The discussion dissects the strategic planning behind the rhetoric, the societal divisions it created, and its alarming relevance to modern political climates. It's a provocative examination of a moment that forever altered the discourse in Britain.
21 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 55min
Shostakovich and Stalin – The Composer and the Dictator
Dive into the tumultuous life of Dmitri Shostakovich, caught between his artistry and Stalin's iron grip. Discover how oppression shaped his music and examine the intense debates surrounding his political intentions. Explore the profound impact of the Leningrad Symphony and the chilling reality of censorship that loomed over Soviet composers. Uncover the controversy behind his memoir and the ongoing battles over his artistic legacy. This fascinating narrative reveals the delicate dance between creativity and survival in a dictatorship.
51 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 55min
ICE – How Trump built an American Gestapo
Dive into the controversial world of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Explore its origins post-9/11 and how it has evolved into a powerful entity resembling a militia. Discover alarming insights into the recruitment of its agents and the dire conditions in detention centers. The discussion draws unsettling parallels to authoritarian regimes, critiquing ICE's operations under various administrations. Engage with the implications of its actions on democracy and civil rights, while also delving into public perceptions and artistic critiques.
27 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 23min
Martin Luther King Jr. – Part Two – Owning the dream
The grand finale delves into Martin Luther King Jr.'s evolving legacy and the challenges he faced after the Selma to Montgomery march. The podcast explores his shift towards economic justice amid societal turmoil and the Vietnam War. Following his assassination, it examines public reactions and the chaotic aftermath, highlighting the struggle to establish Martin Luther King Day as a national holiday. Additionally, the discussion critiques the misinterpretation of his message, emphasizing the need for urgency in addressing ongoing societal injustices.
