History Buffoons Podcast

What happens when a Carbliss tequila cocktail tastes more like cleaning products? Kate has the answer, and it involves a trusty backup plan involving a classic Modelo. Meanwhile, Bradley finds summer in a can with his newfound love for a Sierra Nevada tropical IPA. Our lighthearted beverage banter takes some unexpected turns, touching everything from AI to genetic testing, and even Kate’s personal experience with genetic profiling for breast cancer. There's a blend of humor and insight as we navigate the joys and quirks of modern life.

We then journey back in time to 17th-century London during the grim days of the 1665 plague. The contrast between the affluent and impoverished districts paints a vivid picture of a city struggling to control an outbreak that would claim thousands. Amid tales of quarantines and survival, we ponder the mysteries of the Delta 32 genetic mutation and its possible role in helping some endure the deadly pandemic unscathed. Our discussion transitions smoothly from historical intrigue to genetic marvels, leaving us questioning how these threads connect past and present.

Fast forward to 1980s San Francisco, where the resilience of human genetics once again takes center stage. Steve Krohn's remarkable story unfolds, revealing the protective power of Delta 32 against the HIV virus. As we unravel the persistent shadow of historic diseases like the bubonic plague, our curiosity is piqued by modern DNA research that continues to illuminate the links between ancient pandemics and genetic resistance. With a mix of humor, history, and science, this episode promises to keep listeners both entertained and enlightened.

DNA confirms cause of 1665 London's Great Plague

By Nicola Stanbridge

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-37287715

The Mystery Of The Village That Beat The Black Death | Riddle Of The Plague Survivors | Chronicle

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8zFzbgfgWw

Black Death By: History.com Editors

https://www.history.com/topics/middle-ages/black-death

Great Plague of 1665-1666

https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/education/resources/great-plague/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Ever botched a brewery's name right in front of the brewer? We did, and it set the stage for a hilarious and heartwarming adventure at Cool City Brewing Company in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Join us as we meet Ryan, the brewer, and his family, savoring their unexpected Berry Habanero Sour that challenges our palates in the best way possible. And seriously, if you're a pretzel aficionado, wait until you hear about their bar pretzel paired with beer cheese and mustard—let's just say we've found our carb soulmate. 

But our journey doesn't stop at hops and grains. We glide seamlessly into the world of art and history, kicking off with some iconic masterpieces like van Gogh's "Starry Night" and Klimt's "The Kiss." We untangle the enigma of the "Mona Lisa," sharing fun tidbits from 1911, the year she captured the world's imagination. Plus, we connect the dots from a listener's family tree to the historical Haymarket Affair. So, whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys a good beer and a laugh, there's a tapestry of stories waiting for you.

Stealing the Mona Lisa - Art Theft of the Century

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYsPSL5XkV4

The Agency - How Much is the Mona Lisa Insured?

https://thagency.com/how-much-is-the-mona-lisa-insured/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Ever wondered how people managed to wake up on time before the invention of reliable alarm clocks? Join us as we promise a journey through the quirky world of Victorian-era professions, where the "knocker uppers" reigned supreme. These human alarm clocks roamed the streets, tapping on windows with bamboo sticks or knocking on doors to rouse factory workers before dawn. Dive into the humorous and often chaotic world of these early risers who ensured the city never slept through the morning shift. We'll unravel how this peculiar job became a necessity in an era when time truly was money, and explore the inventive ways they navigated the challenges of their unconventional work.

But that's just the beginning! You'll also explore the unusual profession of "pure finders," dedicated to gathering dog feces for the leather industry—a surprising yet vital trade during the Victorian era. With insights from journalist Henry Mayhew's investigations, discover how these workers managed to turn waste into a commodity, forming contracts with dog kennels and shaping a unique economy. As we connect the dots between these past professions and modern waste collection services, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of those who thrived in unusual jobs. Prepare for a captivating blend of history, humor, and the oddities of the past that still resonate today.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/what-did-people-use-before-alarm-clocks

\https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/early-risers-before-alarm-clocks-there-were-knocker-uppers-1.4729276

https://www.jack-the-ripper-tour.com/generalnews/the-knocker-upper/

https://www.nofreelunch.co.uk/blog/what-was-a-victorian-pure-finder/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

What happens when napping becomes an Olympic sport, and BeatBox beverages take center stage? Tune in to our latest episode where Kate and I explore the art of napping, with a humorous twist that might just inspire you to perfect your snooze. As we sip on the spirited flavors of BeatBox, our candid reactions promise plenty of laughs and maybe even a new favorite drink. Plus, fuzzy memories of our Hawaiian adventure weave through our chat, adding a personal touch to our playful banter.

Ever considered a career change from the sea to the sky? Fred Noonan did just that, and his journey is nothing short of remarkable. From dodging German U-boats to charting new courses across the Pacific with Pan Am, Fred's adventurous spirit shines through. We recount his story, filled with maritime exploits and aviation milestones, highlighting his indelible mark on history. His transition from a ship's deck to the cockpit serves as a testament to relentless pursuit and daring ambition.

As history buffs well know, no tale is complete without a bit of mystery. The final chapter of our episode delves into the unsolved disappearance of Amelia Earhart and Fred Noonan. We explore the myriad theories that have puzzled historians for decades, from crash-landings on remote islands to intriguing espionage tales. Recent discoveries, tantalizing evidence, and enduring speculation all make for a riveting discussion. Join us as we unravel these mysteries and invite you to stay curious with the History Buffoons Podcast, where the buffoonery never stops.

How did Amelia Earhart die? Here’s what researchers think happened to the famed pilot.

By Clare Mulroy-USA TODAY

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2023/11/10/what-happened-to-amelia-earhart/71314660007/

Tantalizing Theories About the Earhart Disappearance

Explore theories about Amelia Earhart’s final days—some more plausible than others. By: Elizabeth Hanes

https://www.history.com/news/what-happened-to-amelia-9-tantalizing-theories-about-the-earhart-disappearance

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Have you ever embarked on a home improvement project only to find out that painting is not your forte? Well, you're not alone—we're in the same boat! Join us, Kate and Bradley, as we bumble through the joys and pitfalls of painting Kate's closet a bold teal. Though it left us feeling as sluggish as a tortoise on a lazy afternoon, the result was a vibrant splash of color that brightened her room and our moods. And for those wondering, yes, two wrongs don't make a right, but they do make for some colorful banter and big podcast energy!

On the flip side, we took a lighthearted trip down memory lane with a nod to the legendary film "The Ten Commandments," complete with jokes about baby Moses and epic treks through Egypt. Kate also takes a bold sip into the world of tequila seltzer cocktails, trying out a zero-carb, gluten-free strawberry margarita concoction that promises a new twist on refreshment. Curious how this cocktail stacks up or just in need of some good laughs? We've got your history and humor fix right here.

https://www.icoe.org/news/story-louis-braille-inventor-braille-code

https://www.inclusivecitymaker.com/history-braille-writing/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/timworstall/2012/08/18/this-digital-age-why-isnt-it-a-paradise-for-braille-readers/#:~:text=With%20only%20a%20tiny%20proportion,dangled%20in%20front%20of%20you.

https://museelouisbraille.com/en/biographie

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Prepare yourself for one of the most surreal and outrageous moments in church history with our latest episode on the Cadaver Synod. Ever wondered how far someone would go for power? Join Kate and Bradley as we promise to unravel the spectacle where the corpse of Pope Formosus was exhumed and put on trial, showcasing the chaotic and comedic lengths of ecclesiastical politics in 9th and 10th century Italy. With the backdrop of a rapidly changing papal lineup and power-hungry Roman factions, we explore how Pope Nicholas I's reforms set the stage for this bizarre event. Follow Formosus's journey from bishop of Porto, Santa Rufina, to a posthumous defendant in a courtroom unlike any other.

Brace yourself for a tale featuring political intrigue, shifting alliances, and the peculiar twist of a deacon speaking for a dead pope. As we navigate the tangled relationships between the papacy, the Spoleto dynasty, Lambert, and Arnulf of Carinthia, we shed light on the motivations behind the Cadaver Synod. Stephen VI's macabre trial backfired spectacularly, sparking public outrage and leading to his demise. Hear how successive popes worked to restore Formosus's reputation and reflect on the absurdity of medieval power struggles with a blend of humor and awe. Tune in for a captivating exploration of this jaw-dropping chapter in church history..

Pope Formosus’ Trial in the Cadaver Synod by Luciano Anastasi

https://historymedieval.com/pope-formosus-trial-in-the-cadaver-synod/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadaver_Synod

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Ever wondered how a simple gummy can spark a conversation about history and labor movements? We kicked off this episode of the History of Buffoons with a lighthearted chat about our latest obsession with Skittles gummies and the chaos of flu season in our homes. Amid tales of feline antics and our favorite brews—Kate's Kona Big Wave and Bradley's Foggy Geezer hazy IPA—we bring humor and insight to our beverage choices, setting the stage for a journey back in time.

Transporting you to the gritty streets of Chicago during the Industrial Revolution, we unravel the harsh realities that shaped the labor movement. Amid stories of immigrant struggles and union uprisings, we spotlight the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor, as well as the tumultuous events of 1886, including the Haymarket Riot. Our narrative focuses on the courage and determination of those who fought tirelessly for workers' rights, against a backdrop of strikes, tension, and the push for an eight-hour workday.

The chapter on the Haymarket Affair dives into the chaos of the bomb incident and its tragic aftermath, highlighting the trial's controversial nature and miscarriage of justice. With a closer look at figures like Albert Parsons and Reverend Fielden, we explore the mystery and media frenzy that ensued. As we reflect on the emotional toll and socio-political repercussions of these events, we underscore the lasting impact on labor rights and social justice, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of their legacy.


http://www.encyclopedia.chicagohistory.org/pages/1381.html#:~:text=Until%20the%201930s%2C%20it%20was,12%2Dhour%20days%20common%20in

https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ushistory2os2xmaster/chapter/building-industrial-america-on-the-backs-of-labor/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haymarket_affair#May_Day_parade_and_strikes

https://www.britannica.com/event/Haymarket-Affair

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Picture this: a refreshing gin and tonic in hand, an exclusive new intro and outro song by Cory Akers in your ears, and a captivating story ready to unfold. Welcome to another episode of History Buffoons, where we spice things up with exciting updates and a touch of humor. We share our thoughts on a potential logo makeover that aligns us more closely with our companion podcast, Origin of Weird, and recount a friend's hilarious logo suggestion that had us laughing out loud. As we sip on our locally sourced gin from Plymouth's Plank Road Distillery, we set the stage for a thrilling historical narrative.

Journey with us as we unravel the extraordinary life of Jacquie Davis, the UK’s first female bodyguard, who broke barriers in the 1970s. From protecting the wives of Gulf sheiks to executing daring rescue missions in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, Jacquie’s story is one of grit, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements in a male-dominated industry. We highlight her transition from a London police officer to an elite bodyguard, emphasizing her adaptability and courage. As Jacquie navigates high-stakes escape missions, her expertise and innovative strategies shine, offering a glimpse into the challenging yet enthralling world of private security. We also touch on Jacquie’s role as a media consultant and her contributions to the Netflix film "Close," leaving you with an appreciation for her illustrious career. 

Our episode concludes with an invitation to join our growing community of history enthusiasts across various platforms. Engage with us on YouTube, X, Instagram, and Facebook, and feel free to dive into discussions or share your historical theories via email. Don't forget to follow History Buffoons on your preferred podcast platforms. Your ratings and reviews not only support us but also keep the spirit of exploration and curiosity alive as we continue to share stories from the annals of history.

The Circuit: The world’s top female bodyguard reveals the truth about her career in covert operations by Ms Jacquie Davis

https://www.amazon.com/Circuit-worlds-bodyguard-reveals-operations/dp/1916379400/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PZLLJ6YDUTY6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.U90SIxX1NpLQWE_3Uu5bi9LF6FyOdgi2PeT_3ZzmRc-TTI385BvY2QgcqnWlmfHgrrogk8ke4B1kA3uq_BWdqV7tKdYZ9my9tL3ze84Jx2rpWftadsSNgnCx85NaHEEz.ZAGAEoMiICqnYx71KM4uDxNx72OW76Zx34EOcy-THaY&dib_tag=se&keywords=jacquie+davis&qid=1736948061&sprefix=jacquie+davis%2Caps%2C141&sr=8-1

The UK’s first ever female bodyguard Jacquie Davis on protecting the A-list, male egos and narrow escapes by Susie Mesure

https://inews.co.uk/news/uk-first-female-bodyguard-jacquie-davis-a-list-male-egos-narrow-escapes-255849?srsltid=AfmBOoooDQX_ddNv6atGY2rTVjswFGU-MFCI0YoGrCkW4B6r0JpaqsM4

Jacquie Davis Website

https://www.jacquiedavis.com

Saudi Arabian women finally allowed to hold passports and travel independently 

By Jessie Yeung and Hamdi Alkhshali, CNN

https://www.cnn.com/2019/08/02/middleeast/saudi-women-travel-passport-intl-hnk/index.html

<

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

What if a plane crash had the power to not only shatter dreams but also serve as the springboard for an awe-inspiring comeback? Strap in as we sip on a tart strawberry rhubarb hard cider from Illinois' own Obscurity Cider, generously shared by our friend Tara, and journey through the extraordinary life of Elizabeth "Betty" Robinson. We kick things off with a playful chat about Kate's cats, Penny and Oliver, before diving into Betty's groundbreaking achievements on and off the track. From being discovered by her high school science teacher to setting Olympic records, Betty’s story challenges societal norms and showcases her unyielding spirit. Despite a catastrophic plane crash in 1931 that nearly took her life, Betty's journey from recovery to the 1936 Berlin Olympics is nothing short of miraculous.

Join us as we recount Betty's life, which is interwoven with iconic figures like Jesse Owens, and celebrate her as a beacon of resilience. Her triumphant return to the Olympic track, defying all odds and expert predictions, leaves us in awe of her indomitable courage. Before we wrap up, we invite you to engage with us—send your questions and historical theories our way through Reddit, X, Instagram, Facebook, or email at [email protected]. Stay curious and connected by following us on your favorite podcast platform and turning on notifications so you never miss an episode. Don't forget to rate and review us to spread the word about History Buffoons Podcast!

Betty Robinson: the sprint star who 'rose from the dead' by Christel Saneh

https://worldathletics.org/heritage/news/betty-robinson-olympic-champion-comic-feature

Betty Robinson was fast as a train and remarkably resilient too

https://usopm.org/betty-robinson-was-fast-as-a-train-and-remarkably-resilient-too/

United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum 

https://usopm.org/from-the-back-of-the-closet-to-the-front-of-the-museum-betty-robinsons-medals/

Betty Robinson: how the fastest woman in the world came back from the dead by John Carroll

https://web.archive.org/web/20210709055404/https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/training/motivation/a26747820/who-is-betty-robinson/

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. 

Imagine unraveling the intricate web of World War II over a casual drink, understanding how a small group used psychological manipulation to control millions. Join us as we explore this chilling history, revealing the dark secrets of the Nazi regime. We even find ourselves captivated by maritime history, discussing shipwrecks and naval battles despite our initial indifference to the ocean.

Our curiosity knows no bounds as we journey back to medieval times, delving into the romanticized world of knights and Arthurian legends. Personal challenges, like ADD, have driven our search for lesser-known historical figures such as Phyllis Wheatley and the Sullivan brothers. These stories push us beyond conventional narratives, offering a fresh and nuanced view of the past, all while enriching our own understanding.

As we recount the making of our podcast, we share the poignant story of Rosemary Kennedy and her lobotomy, reflecting on the haunting history of such procedures. We're committed to uncovering the oddities of history, and we invite you to join us in this quest. Engage with us by sharing your questions and topic suggestions, as we strive to discover and share captivating historical narratives that resonate with our listeners.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

This website contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the running of this website and allows me to continue providing valuable content. Please note that I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched.