He was born into poverty, educated himself by candlelight, and rose to become the 16th president of the United States. But Abraham Lincoln’s legacy isn’t just about where he came from—it’s about what he held together.

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of the man who led America through its bloodiest war and abolished slavery in the process. From the log cabin to the White House, from the Emancipation Proclamation to the Gettysburg Address—this is the story of a leader whose courage and clarity reshaped a nation forever.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• ​Lincoln’s early life and unlikely rise to politics
• ​His defining role in the Civil War and preservation of the Union
• ​The bold moral stand of the Emancipation Proclamation
• ​His enduring words in the Gettysburg Address
• ​The tragic end to his life—and the lasting impact of his leadership

Follow the podcast for more powerful biographies of leaders who changed the world.

From KGB agent to global powerbroker, Vladimir Putin has ruled Russia for over two decades—with a legacy defined by control, conflict, and calculated ambition.

In this episode, we explore the life and rise of one of the most influential—and controversial—leaders of the 21st century. From his Cold War roots in Soviet intelligence to his grip on the modern Kremlin, Putin’s story is shaped by the past and driven by a relentless pursuit of power.

In this episode, we uncover:

• ​Putin’s early life in post-war Leningrad
• ​His Cold War years as a KGB agent in East Germany
• ​His rapid ascent through Russian politics after the fall of the Soviet Union
• ​The consolidation of his power and the silencing of his critics
• ​Key global flashpoints—from Crimea to Ukraine and beyond
• ​His impact on geopolitics, democracy, and Russia’s place in the modern world

Follow for more revealing biographies of world leaders, disruptors, and historical figures who shaped our times.

He was a little-known senator with a dream and became the first Black president of the United States.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring life of Barack Obama, exploring how he rose from a modest upbringing to the highest office in the world. From his days as a community organizer to the White House, Obama’s journey is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and leadership in the face of division.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• ​Obama’s early life, education, and cultural background
• ​His grassroots beginnings in Chicago politics
• ​The historic 2008 presidential campaign and what made it so powerful
• ​Key moments from his presidency: the Affordable Care Act, the killing of Osama bin Laden, and more
• ​His legacy and influence on global leadership today

Follow the podcast for more in-depth biographies of world leaders, cultural icons, and history-making changemakers.

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela freedom fighter, political prisoner, and the first Black president of South Africa. From his early days in a rural village to his 27-year imprisonment and eventual rise to power, Mandela’s story is one of resilience, justice, and the rare power of forgiveness.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• ​Mandela’s childhood and early influences
• ​His fight against apartheid and role in the African National Congress
• ​The 27 years he spent behind bars on Robben Island
• ​How he led South Africa through one of the most peaceful transitions in history
• ​His enduring legacy as a global symbol of unity and peace

Follow or subscribe for more powerful stories of leaders, legends, and changemakers from history and today.

Welcome to Behind The Greats the podcast that brings you deep into the lives of the world’s most influential leaders.

From revolutionaries like Thomas Sankara and Kwame Nkrumah, to global icons like Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama, to controversial figures like Muammar Gaddafi and Vladimir Putin—this series explores the rise, rule, and legacy of the people who shaped history.

Each episode takes you on a cinematic journey through the personal and political worlds of presidents, rebels, monarchs, and power-brokers. Discover what drove them. What challenged them. And what defined them.

New episodes every week. One leader. One legacy. One story at a time.

Subscribe now to start your journey into the minds and moments that moved the world.