Best Marty Smarticus Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 57: Queen Olga of Kiev: A Tale of Vengeance and Legacy 12:07

9d ago12:07

12:07

What if a queen's ultimate revenge could change the course of a nation's history? Discover the chilling yet riveting story of Queen Olga of Kiev, a formidable ruler whose cunning and ruthless tactics left an indelible mark on medieval Eastern Europe. Start your journey with us as we bring the flavors of history to life, beginning with a mouth-water…

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Episode 56: Avian Elegance and Culinary Bliss 21:43

1M ago21:43

21:43

What if fashion could lead to the near-extinction of entire bird species? Join us as we explore the dark side of 19th-century feathered fashion and its devastating impact on avian populations. But before diving into this fascinating and somber tale, we share our delightful baking adventure with the classic Southern hummingbird cake. From the rich a…

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Episode 55: Benjamin Franklin's Surprising Subterranean Mystery 13:17

1M ago13:17

13:17

Who would've thought that a discussion about Benjamin Franklin's quirky eating habits could lead to an unsettling discovery in his London basement? Join Phoenix and I, Smarticus, as we munch through Franklin's amusing cranberry and apple cravings and ponder over his patriotic poultry proposal. But brace yourselves, for our conversation takes an eer…

1
Episode 54: A Four-Legged War Hero and a Taste of Wartime Culinary Ingenuity 9:33

2M ago9:33

9:33

Ever wondered about the unsung heroes and quirky tales hidden in the folds of history? Buckle up and join us, Smarticus and Phoenix, as we bring to light the incredible saga of Juliana the Great Dane, a four-legged combatant who sniffed out her spot in World War II history not once, but twice — all with the help of her bladder! This episode isn't j…

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Episode 53: When Tuberculosis Bred Vampires in the Heart of America 16:46

2M ago16:46

16:46

Unearth the chilling truths that lurk in the shadows of history as we recount the New England Vampire Panic, where the dread of disease transformed into a fear of the undead. Together with expert folklorists Michael Bell and Paul Barber, we uncover how 18th and 19th-century communities were ensnared in a web of superstition, leading them to disturb…

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Episode 52: Ancient Wonders and Flavorful Feasts of Micronesia 13:36

3M ago13:36

13:36

Ever wondered about the enchanting ruins that rival the mystique of the great pyramids? Let's unwrap the secrets of Nan Madal together! Join Smartacus and yours truly, Phoenix, as we journey to the heart of Micronesia and endeavor to untangle the perplexing history of the ancient city dubbed the Venice of the Pacific. Not only will this episode tic…

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Episode 51: The Timeless Tale of Betty Boop 17:36

4M ago17:36

17:36

Step back in time with us and rediscover the jazz-infused world of the 1920s through the captivating eyes of Betty Boop. Your ears won't believe the fascinating origins of this flapper icon, as we unveil her journey from Max Fleischer's drawing board to the hearts of millions. With the help of our co-host phoenix, we'll spill the secrets behind Bet…

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Episode 50: Ancient Academia and Edible Antiquities in a Modern Quest 14:21

4M ago14:21

14:21

Embark on a voyage through the annals of time with us, Smarticus and Phoenix, where you'll uncover the unexpected connections between an ancient university and an empire lost to history. Prepare to be astonished by the revelation that the hallowed halls of Oxford University date back even before the Aztecs laid their first stone in Tenochtitlan. Bu…

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Episode 49: Civilization's Frothy Foundation in Ancient Mesopotamia 8:48

5M ago8:48

8:48

Unlock the secrets of a 3,900-year-old Sumerian poem and discover how it's not just a tribute to the goddess Ninkasi, but also a recipe for the beer that coursed through ancient Mesopotamia's veins. With my cohost, Phoenix, we celebrate the professional brewmasters of yore, whose precise record-keeping on clay tablets offers us a glimpse into a soc…

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Episode 48: Nautical Escapes and the Life of an Unconquered Sea Voyager 19:30

5M ago19:30

19:30

In this captivating episode, we embark on a thrilling journey through the extraordinary life of Violet Jessup, the indomitable woman who defied the odds and survived not just one, but three maritime disasters, including the infamous sinking of the Titanic. Join us as we uncover the remarkable tale of "Miss Unsinkable," from her challenging early ye…

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Episode 47: Tales of a Prowler in the Fog 12:12

6M ago12:12

12:12

Ever wondered if the tales of the Mad Gasser of Mattoon were steeped in paranoia or if there was a genuine prowler on the loose? Your hosts, Smarticus and Phoenix, promise to guide you through the misty contours of this perplexing story, dissecting each element from mass hysteria to environmental anomalies. But that's not all we have on our plate –…

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Episode 46: The Afterlife Trial of a Pope and Mayan Beauty Rituals 17:34

6M ago17:34

17:34

Step right up to the grand stage of history where the dead speak and the living listen—in a most literal sense! Join Phoenix and I as we recount the spine-chilling story of Pope Formosus, whose earthly deeds led to an otherworldly trial, long after his last breath. This week's episode is a tapestry of intrigue and gastronomy, where we not only unea…

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Episode 45: Unraveling the Mystery of the Franklin Lost Expedition 11:00

7M ago11:00

11:00

Ever wondered what could have led to the disappearance of the Franklin Lost Expedition in 1845? Pull up a chair and join us, your hosts Smarticast and Phoenix, as we unravel this icy mystery and the theories that might answer this question. We delve into an eerie tale that saw Sir John Franklin and his crew vanish without a trace while attempting t…

1
Episode 44: Unmasking Robin Hood, A Deep Dive into Legend and Medieval Cuisine 13:35

7M ago13:35

13:35

Have you ever wondered about the truth behind the legendary figure Robin Hood? Well, buckle up because this week on Smarticus Tales History, we're about to give you a first-row seat to the past as we debunk the myths and shed light on the reality behind this famed outlaw. I'm your host, Smarticus, joined by my co-host, Phoenix as we dig into the Ro…

1
Episode 43: The Fouke Monster, A Tale of Terror, Tidbits and Tasty Treats 19:26

7M ago19:26

19:26

Imagine stumbling upon a cryptid creature, lurking in the wild woods of Arkansas. Would you be terrified or thrilled? This episode of Smarticus Tells History brings you face to face with the eerie legend of the Fouqe Monster. A creature that has both fascinated and frightened locals for over a century. We dive into the theories and tales surroundin…

1
Episode 42: Unraveling History: From Pudding to Phantom Soldiers 16:34

8M ago16:34

16:34

Who would've thought a dessert with a name like "spotted dick" and inflatable tanks would have anything in common? Well, we at Smarticus Tells History promise to take you on a wild ride exploring the uncanny connections between these two seemingly unrelated topics. Today, co-host Phoenix and I uncover the intriguing and lesser-known stories behind …

1
Episode 41: Unveiling the Truth Behind Egypt's Great Pyramid and Napoleon's Expedition 16:29

8M ago16:29

16:29

Ever imagined what it would be like to explore the hidden chambers of the Great Pyramid of Giza? Join us and our co-host, Phoenix, as we take you through a riveting journey inside this ancient wonder, uncovering the mysteries of a secret room with the help of the Scan Pyramids project. We'll also demystify the legendary saga of Napoleon's expeditio…

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Episode 40: Tastes of Germany and Tales of Timeless Floating Messages 14:16

8M ago14:16

14:16

Are you ready to embark on a tasty adventure? Phoenix and I kick things off by warming your palate with a hearty chat about Germany's culinary staple - the bratwurst. We navigate the varied terrain of this flavorful sausage, from the diverse ingredients used in different regions to the mouthwatering ways it's served. As we recount our own delicious…

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Episode 39: An Exploration of Stonehenge's Enigma and British Cuisine 24:02

11M ago24:02

24:02

How was Stonehenge built? And, what if those iconic Bluestones had healing properties? This episode promises to transport you back in time, shedding light on the enigmatic monument and its myriad of secrets. Alongside our co-host Phoenix, we will guide you through a captivating exploration of Stonehenge's construction, its historical significance, …

1
Episode 38: Exploring Ancient South American Mummification and a Taste of Peruvian Cuisine 20:36

11M ago20:36

20:36

Are you ready to uncork a bottle of history lesser known to most? Prepare to be transported back in time as Phoenix and I pull you through the winding corridors of South American civilization, exposing the ancient art of mummification in all its eerie grandeur. Unveiling the mystic practices of the Inca Empire, the Nazca civilization, and the Mochi…

1
Episode 37: Australia's Great Emu War 40:04

12M ago40:04

40:04

Welcome back to another episode of Smarticus Tells History! Today's episode takes us to the fascinating and amusing chapter of the Australian Emu Wars. Learn about the unlikely conflict that occurred in the 1930s when emus became a menace to farmers in Western Australia. Links: Recipe: https://www.bestrecipes.com.au/recipes/mums-shepherds-pie-recip…

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Episode 36: The Hans Island Dispute 38:39

12M ago38:39

38:39

Welcome to another episode of Smarticus Tells History. Today's story takes us to a small island located between Canada and Denmark called Hans Island. A territorial dispute over this tiny island has been ongoing for roughly 50 years, and even involved a bottle of liquor In this episode, we explore the fascinating story of how Canada and Denmark fig…

1
Episode 35: The Jewish Avengers 29:18

12M ago29:18

29:18

The Jewish Avengers was a group of Holocaust survivors who sought retribution against the Nazis who had committed atrocities against their people. In this episode, we'll explore the history of the Holocaust, the formation of the Jewish Avengers, their actions, and their legacy. Links: Recipe: https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/matzo-ball-soup.ht…

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Episode 34: The Blood Countess 31:02

1y ago31:02

31:02

This week we discuss how Elizabeth Bathory was one of the most notorious female serial killers in history. Born into a wealthy and powerful family in Hungary, her obsession with beauty and youth led her down a dark path that eventually led to her becoming known as the Blood Countess. In this episode, we'll explore her life and crimes, and the legac…

1
Episode 31: The Great Locomotive Chase 18:47

1y ago18:47

18:47

The United States Civil War is a never-ending source of tales of bravery, valor, and danger. But few stories capture the spirit of the battle quite like the Great Locomotive Chase. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, we explore the strangest locomotive heist that ever was. Led by a civilian spy, a group of Union volunteers commandeered a lo…

1
Episode 32: The Salem Witch Trials 33:08

1y ago33:08

33:08

Welcome to "Smarticus Tells History". In this episode, we embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind one of the most notorious chapters in American history. Join us as we examine the origins, the hysteria, the accused, and the aftermath of the Salem Witch Trials. Through insightful interviews, expert analysis, and riveting storytelling, we she…

1
Episode 33: Jack the Signalman 21:46

1y ago21:46

21:46

In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, we delve into the incredible true story of Jack the Signalman, a chacma baboon who defied all odds to become a trusted employee of the South African Railways in the late 19th century. We discuss the remarkable journey of Jack, from his early days as a market trolley pusher to his role as a signalman assis…

1
Episode 30: The Anglo-Zanzibar War 12:46

2+ y ago12:46

12:46

There is no shortage of historical conflict to talk about, but only one war in known history started and ended on the same day. As a result of a jilted sultan-to-be calling a British bluff, the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896 was over in less than an hour. In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Smarticus explains the complicated protectorate relati…

1
Episode 29: Dublin Whiskey Fire 12:27

2+ y ago12:27

12:27

On a summer night in 1875, more than a dozen Dubliners drank so much whiskey they all perished. But it wasn’t a special occasion, and none of them ordered a single dram from a pub. They were all causalities of the Dublin Whiskey Fire. On this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Marty tells us the unbelievable story of the most destructive fire in D…

1
Episode 28: Khutulun 13:25

2+ y ago13:25

13:25

Genghis Khan is well known for being the most fearsome warrior in history, and for a good reason: his campaigns through Asia made the Mongol Empire the largest in the world. But few people know of his great-great-granddaughter, who accomplished a feat even her old grand-pops would have marveled at: protecting her independence by defeating every sin…

1
Episode 27: Einsteins Brain 14:49

2+ y ago14:49

14:49

Most of us are well-acquainted with Einstein’s impact on both science and pop culture. E=MC2, the classic tongue-out photo, the Nobel Prize. But did you know that Einstein’s brain continued a remarkable journey long after his death? In this episode of Smarticus Tells History, Marty shares the truly bizarre story of the theft of Einstein’s brain. Ta…

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Episode 26: Napoleon Vs The Bunnies 14:43

2+ y ago14:43

14:43

Napoleon Bonaparte is widely remembered as one of the greatest military leaders of all time. A man with a genius mind, gift for rousing beaten troops, and unquenchable thirst for power, Napoleon helped secure the success of the French Revolution before instating himself as the new emperor. But one battle that didn’t make its way into many books is …

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Episode 25: Resusci Annie 14:14

2+ y ago14:14

14:14

Nearly everyone goes through CPR training at some point. After an instructor walks you through the basics of compressions and breathing, you’re invited to try for yourself on a life-sized doll. But few people know this doll’s name is “Annie,” and her likeness is based on a 19th-century death mask of an unidentified drowning victim in Paris. In this…

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Episode 24: The Mary Celeste 14:10

2+ y ago14:10

14:10

The Mary Celeste is one of the most enduring and intriguing maritime mysteries in history, and on this episode of Smaritcus Tells History, we tell you why. After setting out from New York with his wife and daughter, Captain Benjamin Briggs, his family and crew were never seen again. But his ship, Mary Celeste, was found off the coast of Portugal, s…

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Episode 23: Haleys Comet Panic of 1910 12:55

2+ y ago12:55

12:55

This week, we’re talking about Halley’s Comet Panic of 1910. Comets have long been seen as omens of disaster, bad luck, or death. Even with scientific advancements and solid historical proof that Halley’s Comet had passed Earth repeatedly without incident, its return in 1910 caused widespread panic. After a frightening prediction by French astronom…

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Episode 22: The Night Witches of WWII 6:06

2+ y ago6:06

6:06

The Night Witches were a fierce group of Soviet Union women who wreaked havoc on the Germans with surprise attacks in World War II. The most amazing part of their story isn’t that the 1200 people running the regiment were all women. No, it's what they had to overcome to be able to fly into combat at all. Listen now to find out what those obstacles …

1
Episode 21: Charlemagne 9:08

2+ y ago9:08

9:08

Who in the blazes was Charlemagne exactly? What was it that he did that made him stick in history? Well you are gonna have to listen and find out! As always, if you like the episode please leave a review and visit our facebook page at facebook.com/smarticusstellshistory If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it g…

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Episode 20: Pompeii!!! To Rise and Fall 10:16

2+ y ago10:16

10:16

Hello and welcome back listeners! First, I would like to apologize for the buzzing you hear in the first 4 minutes of the episode. I am not sure what caused it, and could not get rid of it. Second, this weeks episode is about the city that was lost for almost 2000 years, Pompeii. It was once a great and flourishing city that was wiped off the face …

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Episode 19: Buried Alive!!! 7:08

3+ y ago7:08

7:08

We all have our fears. Some fears have led to some pretty crazy inventions in order to conquer those fears. This weeks episode is about one of those fears, and some of those inventions. Give it a listen and let us know if you liked it! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it going, you can make donations here: …

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Episode 18: The Colosseum!!! 9:20

4y ago9:20

9:20

Good old Roman history! Thats what we have for you this week. The largest Construction ever built in its time, the colosseum is still an impressive piece of architecture, at least what is left of it. This weeks episode is all about its history and what it was used for! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it go…

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Episode 17: Monopoly and British P.O.W.'s 7:08

4y ago7:08

7:08

We all have a love hate relationship with the Monopoly game. It has caused several family feuds and ruined many friendships. But it is and always will be considered one of the greatest board games of all time. What you dont know about it is that it also served honorably in WW2 and potentially saved the lives of thousands of men. Listen on and enjoy…

1
Episode 16: Apples and Apples and Apples 5:47

4y ago5:47

5:47

You remember those stories you were told in school when you were younger? Could you recall every single one of the exploits of great men of their time? No? I thought not. As it turns out, I cant either. Which is why this weeks short story is about one of those great heroes. Give it a listen and let us know how we did on our facebook page at Smartic…

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Episode 15: The Terror of The Chinese Seas 7:21

4y ago7:21

7:21

Welcome back for season 2 of the show! This week smarticus tells the story of one of the most notorious pirates in history. Ching Shih. If you think you would enjoy your time as a pirate back in the day, well you may have other thoughts after listening to this one! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it going,…

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Episode 14: The Order Of The Pug 5:39

4y ago5:39

5:39

We all love our furry little animals. Some of us more than others. In this week's episode, we discuss an old relic of an order based around the Pug. This should not be confused with some of the stuff you all see on TV with people dressing in latex dog suits and masks. Although, i suppose there isnt much of a difference from whats going on.....and i…

1
Episode 13: Automobiles 6:41

4y ago6:41

6:41

This week we discuss something that most of us get into everyday without thinking about it. Our automobiles. The origins of the automobile is not a weird fact, but it is something that is not widely known. Tell us what you think about the episode and we hope you learn a thing or two! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements…

1
Episode 12: Wojtek 6:22

4y ago6:22

6:22

We all love our pets, even those crazy people that love their snakes and other more exotic pets. Well this weeks story involves one of those exotic pets. A Syrian brown bear that was an official enlisted member of the Polish 2nd Corps. Give the episode a lesson and leave a review about your thoughts! We hope to see you again in next weeks installme…

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Episode 11: The Boston Molassacre 5:23

4y ago5:23

5:23

Do you like molasses? You know, the kind you cook with, or use to make rum. Well Boston got a whole lot of it in January of 1919. You can read all about it, in this weeks episode! There may be more food related disasters in the future so be sure to keep listening! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it going, …

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Episode 10: Cleopatra 10:16

4y ago10:16

10:16

If you are anything like me, then you are a big fan of Egyptian history and mythology. This weeks installment is about the history of the one of the greatest pharaohs of Egypt. Queen Cleopatra VII herself. If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it going, you can make donations here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/…

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Episode 9: The Black Plague 8:30

4y ago8:30

8:30

We have all heard of the black plague yes? How about the Black Death? The Bubonic Plague? All of these are just different names for the same sickness that ravaged the medieval times and quite possibly could have wiped mankind off the face of the earth. This weeks episode contains the timeline of how and when the first occurrence of this plague surf…

1
Episode 8: The Iron Maiden 5:54

4y ago5:54

5:54

Who knows the history of the Iron maiden? No, not Iron Maiden the rock band. The old torture device! This weeks episode is about the mysterious coffin like device we have seen all over Hollywood throughout the ages! If you would like to donate to the show to help make improvements and keep it going, you can make donations here: https://www.paypal.c…

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Marty Smarticus Podcasts

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