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Dr. Chris Kempshall, What Does Star Wars Mean To You?
Historian Dr. Chris Kempshall (The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire) joins us to chat what does Star Wars mean to him. From childhood memories of watching it on VHS to analyzing the Star Wars universe, Kempshall discusses how the franchise has impacted him over the years. He also shares insights into Star Wars Galaxies, the iconic MMORPG that shaped his fandom, detailing his experiences leading an Imperial guild and engaging in the large-scale role-playing battle for Tatooine. The discussion highlights the evolution of Star Wars storytelling, including how Lucasfilm Story Group helped shape his book’s historical perspective. Kempshall also reflects on Star Wars Celebration, the impact of The Force Awakens, and why themes of conflict, morality, and hope make Star Wars timeless.
Chris's Website
@chriskempshall on Instagram
@ChrisKempshall on X
I am a public historian and author who specialises both in transnational experiences of warfare and modern media representations of history; predominantly computer games and the Star Wars franchise.
I received my PhD from the University of Sussex in 2013 where my thesis examined relations between British and French soldiers during the First World War. I have taught and lectured on war, conflict, and European history at a wide assortment of universities.
I am currently the President for the International Society for First World War Studies and a Senior Research Fellow for the Centre for Army Leadership, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
I am also a series editor for the De Gruyter academic book series ‘Video Games and the Humanities‘ and a co-presenter on ‘Oh! What a Lovely Podcast‘ which explores the portrayal of the First World War in popular culture and media.
Twitter and Instagram @StarWarsMean2U
Star Wars may have the largest and most diverse fanbase in all the galaxy—but every fan has their own certain point of view. So, tune your comlinks and join Star Wars enthusiasts, Dave (an OT kid) and Elora (a PT kid), every week for an in-depth conversation with a different devotee from all walks of life across the Star Wars fandom universe. Plus, it’s just FUN to talk about Star Wars. To bring balance to the fanbase, each episode we’ll delve into our guests’ personal Star Wars fandom story, and from that point of view, we’ll celebrate the power of the Force. Strap in, ignite your passion for the galaxy far, far away, and find out: What Does Stars Wars Mean To You?
Music composed & performed by Gregory Bromfield
Copyright 2026 David H.
What Does Star Wars Mean To You? website
Mentioned in this episode:
Enjoying What Does Star Wars Mean To You?
One of our goals this year is to grow the show so that WHAT DOES STAR WARS MEAN TO YOU reaches more listeners. And that’s where we’re asking you for help. And it’s really easy. Wherever you listen to us, please hit the subscribe button. If you’re liking the show, give us a 5 star rating and review on the platform you listen to us.It really does help us get noticed by new fans.
May the force be with you
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By David H.Historian Dr. Chris Kempshall (The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire) joins us to chat what does Star Wars mean to him. From childhood memories of watching it on VHS to analyzing the Star Wars universe, Kempshall discusses how the franchise has impacted him over the years. He also shares insights into Star Wars Galaxies, the iconic MMORPG that shaped his fandom, detailing his experiences leading an Imperial guild and engaging in the large-scale role-playing battle for Tatooine. The discussion highlights the evolution of Star Wars storytelling, including how Lucasfilm Story Group helped shape his book’s historical perspective. Kempshall also reflects on Star Wars Celebration, the impact of The Force Awakens, and why themes of conflict, morality, and hope make Star Wars timeless.
Chris's Website
@chriskempshall on Instagram
@ChrisKempshall on X
I am a public historian and author who specialises both in transnational experiences of warfare and modern media representations of history; predominantly computer games and the Star Wars franchise.
I received my PhD from the University of Sussex in 2013 where my thesis examined relations between British and French soldiers during the First World War. I have taught and lectured on war, conflict, and European history at a wide assortment of universities.
I am currently the President for the International Society for First World War Studies and a Senior Research Fellow for the Centre for Army Leadership, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
I am also a series editor for the De Gruyter academic book series ‘Video Games and the Humanities‘ and a co-presenter on ‘Oh! What a Lovely Podcast‘ which explores the portrayal of the First World War in popular culture and media.
Twitter and Instagram @StarWarsMean2U
Star Wars may have the largest and most diverse fanbase in all the galaxy—but every fan has their own certain point of view. So, tune your comlinks and join Star Wars enthusiasts, Dave (an OT kid) and Elora (a PT kid), every week for an in-depth conversation with a different devotee from all walks of life across the Star Wars fandom universe. Plus, it’s just FUN to talk about Star Wars. To bring balance to the fanbase, each episode we’ll delve into our guests’ personal Star Wars fandom story, and from that point of view, we’ll celebrate the power of the Force. Strap in, ignite your passion for the galaxy far, far away, and find out: What Does Stars Wars Mean To You?
Music composed & performed by Gregory Bromfield
Copyright 2026 David H.
What Does Star Wars Mean To You? website
Mentioned in this episode:
Enjoying What Does Star Wars Mean To You?
One of our goals this year is to grow the show so that WHAT DOES STAR WARS MEAN TO YOU reaches more listeners. And that’s where we’re asking you for help. And it’s really easy. Wherever you listen to us, please hit the subscribe button. If you’re liking the show, give us a 5 star rating and review on the platform you listen to us.It really does help us get noticed by new fans.
May the force be with you