History Unplugged Podcast

14/12/2023

Today, we have the privilege of hosting a literary luminary in the realms of science fiction and fantasy. He's the creative mind behind the captivating world of Toons and the mastermind who brought us the iconic "Who Censored Roger Rabbit?" - none other than the brilliant Gary K. Wolf!

A maestro of imagination, Gary K. Wolf has woven tales that transcend the ordinary, blending detective fiction, humor, and fantasy in ways that have captivated readers and inspired the iconic film, "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." Join us as we delve into the extraordinary mind of this esteemed author, exploring his literary journey, insights into his creative process, and the impact of his work on popular culture.

Whether you're a fan of Roger Rabbit or simply love a good story, this episode promises to be a fascinating exploration into the realms of fiction with the man who brought Toons to life.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/ze1bxo

Spotify: https://rb.gy/2lbnzu

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13/12/2023

Our guest today is none other than the incomparable Pat Boone. With a career spanning decades, Pat has graced stages, screens, and airwaves with his golden voice and timeless charisma. From chart-topping hits to silver screen successes, he's a multifaceted talent who has stood the test of time.

We discuss his career, fame and why he said no to making a movie with Marilyn Monroe!

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/ah5h3r

Spotify: https://rb.gy/vfkfym

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12/12/2023

This episode looks at a deathbed promise from a daughter to a mother, which leads the daughter on a journey to write about her grandfather who was a famous war hero. But this journey had a terrible destination: the discovery that he was a N**i war criminal.
Today’s guest is the daughter -- Silvia Foti – author of the book “Storm in the land of rain." Her mother was dying and she wanted to preserve family history, so she asked Sylvia to write a book about Foti’s grandfather, Jonas Noreika, a famous WWII hero.

Foti had no idea that in keeping her promise to her mother, her discoveries would bring her to a personal crisis, unearth Holocaust denial, and expose an official cover-up by the Lithuanian government that resulted in an internationally-followed lawsuit.
Jonas Noreika was a Lithuanian known as General Storm.

He led an uprising that won the country of Lithuania back from the communists, only to have it fall under N**i control. He was an official during the Holocaust and chief of the second largest region in the country during the N**i occupation, yet he became a prisoner in a N**i concentration camp.

Foti set out to write a heroic biography about her famous grandfather. But as she dug ever deeper, she “encountered so much evidence proving my flesh and blood ‘hero’ was a Jew-killer, even I could no longer believe the lie.”

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/eivnwp

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07/12/2023

In this special episode, we are honored to have a true legend in the world of boxing join us—Olympic gold medalist, former professional boxer, and world champion, Leo Randolph. His remarkable journey from winning gold at the 1976 Olympics to winning a world championship,

Leo's story is one of resilience, triumph, and the pursuit of excellence. As a key member of the historic 1976 U.S. Olympic boxing team which also included Sugar Ray Leonard and the Spinks brothers, Michael and Leon, Leo not only secured a gold medal but also became a symbol of American boxing prowess. His transition to the professional circuit saw him face new challenges, ultimately leading to championship glory.

Here, we discuss everything. Now I give you, Leo Randolph.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/f621l9

Spotify: https://rb.gy/qxyixo

30/11/2023

In this episode, I am proud to present a compilation of interviews with three extremely distinguished journalists!

In fact, they are all Pulitzer Prize winners!

Here, they each tell me what the experience of winning one is like and what it meant for them.

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yrkm6jwx

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/mpc7h7b7

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28/11/2023

Our guest is Andrea "Andy" Cunningham, a marketing and communications trailblazer who joined the ranks of Regis McKenna in the heart of Silicon Valley. It was here that she found herself at the epicenter of innovation and was given project lead responsibilities that would forever change the course of her career.

Andy collaborated with Steve Jobs on the launch of the Apple Macintosh, an endeavor that would become a milestone in tech history. She didn't just witness the birth of the Macintosh; she was a key architect of its success. But that's just the beginning of her incredible journey.

Let's embark on this extraordinary journey through the Steve Jobs era with our esteemed guest, Andrea "Andy" Cunningham

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/q4ykwk

Spotify: https://rb.gy/tf52x1

07/11/2023

This episode, we engage in a profound exploration of radical activism by featuring an interview with Bill Ayers , the founder of the Weather Underground.

Journeying back to the turbulent 1960s and '70s, a period characterized by social upheaval, we delve into the origins, motivations, and actions of this controversial revolutionary movement. Bill Ayers provides a firsthand perspective on the Weather Underground's inception, its overarching objectives, and the socio-political context that fueled its radicalism.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/e4ugzb

Spotify: https://rb.gy/94a0l0

01/11/2023

Happy to have our interview with Jonestown survivor Eugene Smith included in the annual Jonestown Report, courtesy of “Alternative Considerations of Jonestown and Peoples Temple,” sponsored by the Special Collections of Library and Information Access at San Diego State University.
Links to full interview -
Spotify: https://rb.gy/s9z96
Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/zh6pr
Report: https://jonestown.sdsu.edu/?page_id=124527

31/10/2023

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with renowned investigative journalist Bethany McLean, whose groundbreaking work played a pivotal role in exposing the Enron scandal. Join us as we dive into the depths of one of the most notorious corporate fraud cases in history and gain insights into McLean's investigative journey.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/u9i5g

Spotify: https://rb.gy/e6r09

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31/10/2023

With an illustrious CIA career spanning decades, Jack Devine has lent his expertise to crucial turning points in history. From the Chronicles of Chile to Operation Cyclone's pivotal role in the Cold War landscape, Devine's firsthand accounts and unparalleled wisdom offer a rare glimpse into the world of intelligence, strategy, and the forces that have molded our world.

Join us for a riveting conversation with Jack Devine, a legendary eyewitness to history. He shares firsthand accounts of the infamous overthrow of Allende in Chile, decodes the Iran-Contra affair, and dives deep into Operation Cyclone's role in shaping the Cold War landscape. Don't miss Devine's books, "Good Hunting: An American Spymaster's Story" and "Spymaster's Prism: The Fight Against Russian Aggression," for in-depth insights into intelligence, strategy, and hidden battles that safeguard nations.
Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/f8xjx
Spotify: https://rb.gy/f8xjx
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30/10/2023

Matthew Perry was sadly found unresponsive in his hot tub by his assistant at his home in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, and later pronounced dead by officers from the Los Angeles Police Department. He was 54.
Earlier this year, I interviewed renowned director Jonathan Lynn who directed Matthew Perry in the movie "The Whole Nine Yards". I wanted to present an excerpt from that interview where Jonathan talks about Matthew Perry, what he was like and shares some personal stories he hasn't shared anywhere else.
Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/ckj6n
Spotify: https://rb.gy/f3b1b
Check out the full interview here:
Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/vrgzu
Spotify: https://rb.gy/z4bv7
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26/10/2023

Illeana Douglas, a multi-talented artist known for her remarkable career in acting, writing, producing, and directing, has been a shining star in the entertainment industry. As the granddaughter of the legendary actor Melvyn Douglas. You know her from such movies as Stir of Echoes, starring Kevin Bacon, and Cape Fear with Robert De Niro, among many, many others.

She has written a book, called Connecticut in The Movies. She delves into how Hollywood has portrayed Connecticut on-screen and how this perception has evolved over the years. From classics like "Theodora Goes Wild" and "Bringing Up Baby" to contemporary masterpieces such as "The Ice Storm" and "Revolutionary Road," Illeana discusses over 200 feature films set in Connecticut that have, until now, remained unrecognized. "Connecticut in the Movies" is more than just a keepsake for Connecticut residents; it's a valuable resource for film enthusiasts, curated by the passionate Illeana Douglas.

Spotify: https://rb.gy/2dpyy

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/4hifb

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12/10/2023

In this episode, we gain a firsthand perspective on the Israel-Hamas conflict from Peta Pellach, an Australian expatriate and a current eyewitness to the horrors occurring in Israel.
Peta shares her unique insights as an eyewitness to the recent Hamas attack on Israel, emphasizing the historical implications of this conflict.
Her firsthand experience sheds light on the atrocities currently taking place in Israel.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/4m6h7
Spotify: https://rb.gy/8bs5l

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‎Show Eyewitness History, Ep Israel-Hamas From The Front Lines: An Insider Tells Her Story - Oct 12, 2023

11/10/2023

Join us as we mark the 48th anniversary of SNL with special guest Hugh Fink, a former SNL writer.

Hear Fink's insights on his time at SNL, including "Weekend Update" and winning an Emmy.
Discover his return to SNL as a guest writer and his broader comedy career.
Conclusion:

A nostalgic look back at the iconic show on its 48th anniversary. Don't miss it!

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/hk4st

Spotify: https://rb.gy/coumr

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10/10/2023

Many of the WW2 generation faced hardship in their youth (they did spend their childhood in the Great Depression), but few had as bad of an early life as Denis Elliott, who became an RAF Flight Lieutenant. At age three he was placed in a brutal and abusive orphanage in London and was later subject to beatings by his first foster father. It wasn’t until the Second World War that everything in Denis’s life began to change — he finally overcame the lack of confidence and self-esteem that had plagued his childhood in Kent and went on to become a skilled, confident, brave pilot flying operations against Japanese forces in Burma, Malaya and Thailand.

He spent two stints serving in the RAF, which saw him posted across Africa, the Middle East, the Far East and Europe, flying B-24 Liberators and Avro Lancasters.

Today’s guest is Phillip Martin, author of “From Orphan to High-Flyer.” We discuss these stories, along with those of Denis’s personal growth, friendship and overcoming adversity.

Apple Podcasts:https://rb.gy/15xa9
Spotify: https://rb.gy/xstw8

03/10/2023

A Holocaust survivor, Ben Lesser, has a remarkable story that is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Join us as we explore his experiences during this dark period, including his upbringing, his time at Auschwitz and Dachau, the infamous Death Train, and the grueling death march, all leading to his eventual liberation.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/4ddpm
Spotify: https://rb.gy/5kpdm

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29/09/2023

In this episode, we delve into Thorne Dreyer's background and the intriguing factors that led him into the world of the underground press. We'll also explore the dynamic social and political climate of the 1960s and 1970s that provided fertile ground for the emergence of the underground press movement. Additionally, we'll uncover how these underground publications fearlessly challenged mainstream narratives, offering alternative viewpoints that resonated with counterculture movements and activism. We'll spotlight some of the key underground publications that left an indelible mark on this era. Amid the passionate pursuit of alternative journalism, underground publications faced formidable hurdles, from persistent censorship to financial struggles. We'll gain insights from Thorne Dreyer's own experiences during this period and the profound impact of his work. Lastly, we'll touch upon the fate of the underground press movement, examining what transpired in the wake of this transformative period in media history.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/3pdnb

Spotify: https://rb.gy/ab3jz

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19/09/2023

John Kiriakou has a unique distinction in history. He was formerly an officer with the CIA and, incredibly, was responsible for the capture of Abu Zubaydah, who was then believed to be the third highest ranking official of al-Qaeda.

But, it was in 2007, when Kiriakou risked all the accolades by choosing to become a whistleblower on the CIA’s torture program.

Kiriakou went on ABC News and not only said that the CIA does indeed torture prisoners, but went on to say that the torture was official policy within the agency, with knowledge of its existence reaching up to and including then-President George W. Bush. As a result of this, Kiriakou spent almost two years in prison.

This is his story.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/raggj

Spotify: https://rb.gy/iltgo

12/09/2023

Michael Ballam has had an operatic and recital career spanning four decades and every continent.

As a recitalist, Mr. Ballam has performed with critical acclaim in some of the most important concert halls in the country, including the Kennedy Center (Washington DC), Orchestra Hall (Chicago), Jordan Hall (Boston), Jones Hall (Houston), and the Los Angeles Music Center. He has also performed with Broadway legends Karen Akers, Tammy Grimes, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Jean Stapleton and Ethel Merman.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/pv7n8

Spotify: https://rb.gy/yf8z1

11/09/2023

Brian Branco was with five co-workers on the morning of September 11th, 2001. He and one other person in his group survived.

He has written, "I remember being farther away and looking up at the building. There was a big hole in the right tower (Tower 1) and the left tower (Tower 2) was on fire. I was thinking how could the fire jump from one tower to the other tower. I was also thinking that this is a real life Towering Inferno."

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/iocik

Spotify: https://rb.gy/4nck6

06/09/2023

Martha Hodes, a historian with a personal connection to history, recounts her harrowing experience during a 1970 plane hijacking by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Stranded in the Jordan desert for six days with her sister, Martha's memoir, "My Hijacking: A Personal History of Forgetting and Remembering," weaves her fragmented memories, family conversations, and meticulous research into a gripping narrative.

This compelling story bridges history and personal experience, shedding light on a global hostage crisis and the lasting divisions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Martha Hodes' tale is one of resilience, introspection, and the enduring impact of historical events.

Check out our “Eyewitness History” interview below:

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/idqjl

Spotify: https://rb.gy/ik2a0

‎Show Eyewitness History, Ep Flight Hijacking Victim Discusses How It Happened, The Terrorist Group, and Trauma On The 53rd Anniversary of the Hijacking - Sep 6, 2023

06/09/2023

Martha Hodes, a historian with a personal connection to history, recounts her harrowing experience during a 1970 plane hijacking by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Stranded in the Jordan desert for six days with her sister, Martha's memoir, "My Hijacking: A Personal History of Forgetting and Remembering," weaves her fragmented memories, family conversations, and meticulous research into a gripping narrative.

This compelling story bridges history and personal experience, shedding light on a global hostage crisis and the lasting divisions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Martha Hodes' tale is one of resilience, introspection, and the enduring impact of historical events.

Check out our “Eyewitness History” interview below:

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/idqjl

Spotify: https://rb.gy/ik2a0

05/09/2023

This episode I speak with Paul Moses. Paul is a former Newsday city editor and senior religion writer, as well as a professor of journalism at Brooklyn College and the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He was also the lead writer on a Newsday team that won the Pulitzer Prize. He has also written a new book called The Italian Squad: The True Story of the Immigrant Cops Who Fought the Rise of the Mafia. We discussed the book as well as his experiences as a journalist, what it was like winning a pulitzer prize and where he was on 9/11.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/czs8t

Spotify: https://rb.gy/n25os

29/08/2023

In this episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Robert Wittman, a former FBI agent renowned for his expertise in art crime investigation and cultural heritage protection. We delved into his book "Priceless: How I Went Undercover to Rescue the World's Stolen Treasures," and explored his role in recovering the iconic Bill of Rights, among other captivating topics.

Key Highlights:

Art Crime Expertise: Robert Wittman's extensive experience in the FBI's Art Crime Team has made him a leading authority in the world of art crime investigation and recovery.

Undercover Operations: Wittman's undercover work unveiled the intricate world of art thieves and their motivations. He highlighted the challenges and risks associated with these operations.

Recovering the Bill of Rights: One of the most riveting stories involved the recovery of the Bill of Rights, a national treasure that had been stolen. Wittman's meticulous efforts led to its safe return.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/vrh4x

Spotify: https://rb.gy/25w06

24/08/2023

In a captivating interview with Spike Edney (Spike Edney - SAS Band Official), the curtain was drawn back on his remarkable journey from a young and aspiring musician to a revered member of the iconic band Queen. Edney shared insights into the pivotal moment he joined the band, his electrifying performance at the historic Live Aid concert, and the intricacies of collaborating with rock legends. As the conversation unfolded, Edney's anecdotes painted a vivid picture of his musical evolution and the behind-the-scenes magic that fueled Queen's extraordinary legacy. The interview provided a unique window into the world of rock 'n' roll, allowing audiences to relive the euphoria of Live Aid and gain a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics that made Queen a global phenomenon.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/iru2w
Spotify: https://rb.gy/7je5h

22/08/2023

Join us for an exploration of Ric Prado's remarkable 24-year CIA career. From Deputy Chief of Station in the Bin Laden Task Force to Chief of Station in a hostile Muslim country, Mr. Prado's experiences are captivating.

Highlights:

Counterterrorism Amidst 9/11 Chaos:

Delve into Mr. Prado's role as Chief of Operations in the CIA's Counterterrorist Center during 9/11. Learn how he coordinated special operations with the National Security Council, FBI, and elite military units, unveiling the strategic maneuvers behind the scenes.

Adventures in Special Operations:

Discover Ric Prado's early years as a paramilitary officer in the CIA's Special Operations Group. in Central America. From living in anti-Sandinista camps to high-stakes operations in Peru and the Philippines, his accounts reveal boundless courage and dedication.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/wm3p0

Spotify : https://rb.gy/ckgb3

Pick up his book “Black Ops: The Life Of A CIA Shadow Warrior at https://ricprado.com/

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17/08/2023

Today is the 85th anniversary of one of history's

In remembrance, we're re-airing part one of our interview with Mr. Klein is a holocaust survivor who defied the horrors of Auschwitz and emerged as a symbol of unyielding resilience. Liberated by the Soviets, Gene Klein's journey stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Key Highlights:

Unveiling Auschwitz's Horrors: Join us as Gene Klein provides a gripping firsthand account of life within the confines of Auschwitz, shedding light on the indomitable spirit that fueled survival amid unimaginable challenges.

Early Life: Gene Klein shares what happened to his family.

Lessons from History: Gene Klein shares profound insights drawn from personal experience, emphasizing the enduring importance of remembrance, tolerance, and the collective responsibility to prevent the repetition of history's darkest moments.

Preserving the Legacy: Explore Gene Klein's perspective on safeguarding the memory of the Holocaust and the vital role of preserving survivors' stories for future generations.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/e6tep

Spotify: https://rb.gy/nakyt

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15/08/2023

Joel Thurm was one of the most admired, powerful, and accomplished casting directors in Hollywood. It was during his years as Vice President of Talent and Casting for both Paramount Television and NBC that he discovered the remarkable Phoenix family from which River and Joaquin became A-list movie stars. Here, Thurm tells the stories of his key involvement in such iconic movies and shows as Grease, Airplane!, Cheers, Silver Spoons, and more.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/k1c66

Spotify: https://rb.gy/7tvfg

08/08/2023

Annie Machon is a former intelligence officer for MI5, the UK Security Service, who resigned in the late 1990s to help blow the whistle on the spies’ incompetence and crimes.

In 1996, she resigned from MI5 in order to help David Shayler reveal a series of alleged crimes committed by the agency. Afterward, they went on the run around Europe for a month, lived in hiding for a year and in exile for two, before returning voluntarily. Machon was never charged with a crime.

Apple Podcasts: https://rb.gy/k55jg

Spotify: https://rb.gy/5wfc8