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
30 snips
Dec 20, 2025 • 1h 40min
Socialism: The Finale – What’s Left?
The discussion explores socialism's journey since 1991, highlighting China’s embrace of market socialism and the rise and fall of Latin America’s Pink Wave. They delve into socialism's historical roots, examining key figures and movements, and ponder whether socialism can be strictly defined. Obstacles like internal factionalism and leadership challenges are analyzed, alongside the interplay of socialism and communism. The hosts reflect on socialism's achievements and its vision for the future amidst capitalism's recurring crises.
51 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 1h 35min
The Fall of the USSR – End Game
Delve into the astonishing collapse of the Soviet Union, a surprise even to historians. Discover how Gorbachev's ambitious reforms of perestroika, glasnost, and democratization accelerated the regime's downfall. Explore pivotal events like the Berlin Wall's fall and the failed coup attempt that unraveled decades of power. The narrative is filled with cultural shifts, economic crises, and political rivalries, culminating in a profound transformation that reshaped world politics. Gorbachev's legacy is a study in irony—his quest for freedom inadvertently dismantled the empire.
42 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 32min
Che Guevara – Guerrilla in the Mist
Explore the enigmatic life of Che Guevara, from his privileged upbringing to his revolutionary exploits. Discover his magnetic personality and the complex contradictions that defined him. The iconic photograph by Alberto Korda embodies youthful idealism and resistance. Delve into Guevara's radicalization, his role in Cuba's guerrilla war, and the harsh realities of revolutionary justice. Learn about his broader aspirations for a united Latin America and the global impact of his legacy as a martyr and a symbol of rebellion.
38 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 1h 13min
The New Left – Part Two – Children of the Revolution
Explore the electrifying year of 1968 as global protests erupted, led by youth demanding change. Discover how iconic figures like John Lennon saw revolution on the horizon, despite the New Left's fragmentation. Learn about the rise of second-wave feminism and gay liberation, shifting the focus from class struggle to broader social movements. Delve into Antonio Gramsci's ideas on hegemony, which provided new strategies for activism. Reflect on the New Left's legacy, influencing modern politics, identity, and cultural rights.
38 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
The New Left – Part One – Generation Next
Explore the fascinating evolution of the New Left, born from the discrediting of Soviet communism. Hear how Khrushchev's 1956 speech shattered communist credibility and fueled disillusionment. Delve into the vibrant youth-led movements of the 1960s that challenged societal norms and rallied for civil rights, particularly in the U.S. Discover the impactful ideas of thinkers like Herbert Marcuse and Frantz Fanon, who called for revolutionary change and the decolonization of minds. Plus, witness the ascent of Maoism and its global resonance.
26 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 2h 3min
Origin Story – Live at the Tabernacle, 13th Nov 2025
Dive into the world of political insurgency as two radical right thinkers, James Orr and Curtis Yarvin, reveal their controversial views on nationalism and democracy. Explore how young socialist leaders like Zohran Mamdani and Zack Polanski are shaking up the left with their fresh, pragmatic ideas. The discussion critiques buzzphrases that dilute political discourse, touching on how 'optics' and 'woke' are misused. Finally, they tackle audience questions about inclusivity, patriotism, and the future of socialism—sparking thought and debate.
82 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 34min
The Labour Party – Part Three – One Battle After Another
Explore Labour's tumultuous journey through history, starting with its identity crisis after Thatcher's victory. Discover how internal factions and leadership battles shaped its evolution, from Michael Foot's defeat to Kinnock's revitalization efforts. Dive deep into Tony Blair's transformative era and the emergence of New Labour, marked by significant legislation but marred by ideological vagueness. The 2017 Corbyn surge and subsequent collapse highlight Labour's struggles with Brexit. Finally, examine Keir Starmer's current challenges as the party navigates its identity crisis.
79 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 36min
The Labour Party – Part Two – War and Peace
Explore the dramatic journey of the UK Labour Party during and after WWII. Discover how Clement Attlee transformed the party into a governmental force while laying the foundations of the NHS and NATO. Witness the internal conflicts and ideological battles in the 1950s, pitting Nye Bevan against Hugh Gaitskell. Delve into the liberal reforms of Harold Wilson and Roy Jenkins, and see how crises and political missteps led to Labour's 1979 defeat and years in opposition. A gripping saga of resilience, conflict, and transformation.
92 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 1h 32min
The Labour Party – Part One – A Very British Socialism
Delve into the tumultuous origins of the UK Labour Party, where socialism was shaped by diverse factions and evolving beliefs. Discover how the fallout from World War I transformed Labour into a formidable force, ousting the Liberals as the main opposition. Explore the pivotal roles of Keir Hardie and Ramsay MacDonald, who navigated internal tensions while responding to national crises. The podcast highlights early government achievements, the impact of the Wall Street Crash, and the challenges of balancing party unity with public expectations.
51 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 36min
Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin – Part Three – Terror
Dive into the chilling world of Stalin’s reign as the podcast explores the mass terror of the Great Purge. Discover how his paranoia fueled brutal purges and a climate of fear across the USSR. The hosts analyze the catastrophic results of forced collectivization and the devastating Holodomor famine. Delve into Trotsky's desperate critiques from exile and the complexities of Stalin's relationships with Nazi Germany. As chaos reigns, hear about the psychological terror inflicted on citizens and the tragic legacy of Stalinism.
