History Podcast Recommendations

Some of my favorites..

Blowback

Blowback takes a hard look at the messy, often overlooked stories behind pivotal moments in U.S. foreign policy. Hosted by Brendan James and Noah Kulwin, each season dives deep into a major historical event, unpacking the causes, consequences, and myths surrounding America’s actions on the global stage. From the Iraq War to the Cuban Revolution, the podcast weaves together archival audio, sharp analysis, and a touch of humor to reveal the hidden truths of these critical moments. Blowback doesn’t shy away from asking tough questions, challenging official narratives, and examining how the fallout of these decisions continues to shape our world.

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History turns the past into an epic, edge-of-your-seat experience. Known for marathon-length episodes that feel more like cinematic journeys than podcasts, Carlin explores history’s biggest events with gripping detail and insight. From the rise and fall of empires to the brutality of 20th-century warfare, Hardcore History brings stories of human triumph, tragedy, and resilience vividly to life. Combining meticulous research with a gift for storytelling, Carlin invites listeners to grapple with the moral and philosophical questions that history presents, leaving them awed and forever curious about the past.

Slow Burn

Slow Burn reexamines the key moments in recent political and cultural history that changed everything—but not all at once. Through deep dives into events like the Watergate scandal, the Clinton impeachment, and the Iraq War, this Slate podcast unpacks the stories that unfolded slowly but left lasting impacts. With a mix of archival footage, sharp reporting, and compelling interviews, Slow Burn uncovers the lesser-known details and personal stories that make these historical moments so resonant today. It’s a fresh look at the events you thought you knew, told with insight and empathy.

1619

The 1619 podcast reframes American history by centering the legacy of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans in shaping the nation. Hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones and produced by The New York Times, the series tells deeply personal stories while exploring the lasting effects of slavery on the country’s economy, politics, and culture. Each episode connects the dots between the past and present, revealing how systemic injustice has shaped modern America. Through powerful storytelling and expert voices, 1619 challenges listeners to confront uncomfortable truths while reimagining the origins of the American story.