

Tales for Wales: A Welsh History Podcast
Jack & Franks
Tales for Wales is an inaccurate Welsh history lesson brought to you by two boozy mates. New episodes every Sunday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 1, 2023 • 32min
13. The Treason of the Long Knives
What is a long knife? When does a short knife become a dagger? When is a knife long enough to become a sword? All we know is they're pretty handy to betray Celtic nations with🔪 So hit play and delight your ears with a tale of bitter betrayal, power struggles and Viggo Mortensen.

Mar 26, 2023 • 36min
12. The Battle of Crug Mawr
Remember Naughty Norman from Fireman Sam? We can all agree he was one devious bastard but did he ever try and conquer a country?In this episode we discuss the naughtiest Normans of all and how a few thousand of them decided to pick a fight with Wales back in the day.

Mar 19, 2023 • 51min
11. Cnapan - Medieval Celtic Football
Back before red cards and touch line technology, the Welsh devised a game of champions that would turn boys to men through a gauntlet of bashed skulls, ripped hair follicles and testing your mettle against armed horsemen.If you've grown tired of the sports of today and their emphasis on player safety, hit play and journey back with us to a time where they truly didn't give a fuck about that.

Mar 5, 2023 • 37min
10. Road Trip
Join the hosts on a lively Welsh road trip filled with humor and historical insights! From comical adventures in a vintage car to exploring significant battlefields, they blend personal anecdotes with deeper reflections on legacy. Enjoy tales of rural escapades, local wildlife encounters, and the challenges of pub visits. Light-hearted discussions on Welsh identity and nationalism offer unique perspectives, while heartfelt moments celebrate friendship and their podcasting journey. Get ready for a delightful mix of chaos, camaraderie, and culture!

Feb 26, 2023 • 38min
9. The Battle of Orewin Bridge
Dive into the heart-wrenching tale of Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, hailed as the Beyoncé of medieval Welsh history. Explore the brutal realities and implications of the Battle of Orewin Bridge, alongside a humorous twist on corporate archery outings. Revel in lighter moments as standout performances in battle get the playful 'Man of the Match' treatment, complete with quirky cultural comparisons. Join the hosts as they reflect on Welsh identity, loss, and independence, all while keeping the discussion lively and entertaining!

Feb 19, 2023 • 51min
8. Barti Ddu Part 2: The Pirates Code
Dive into the life of Barti Ddu and the surprisingly progressive Pirates Code that he implemented. Discover humorous anecdotes about pandemic escapades and quirky engagement proposals that promise laughter. Enjoy a playful exploration of the absurd laws of piracy, contrasted with reflections on camaraderie and gender roles among pirates. Plus, a light-hearted discussion on the film 'Cats' keeps the mood lively. Tune in for insights on pirate life, including unique compensation systems and the camaraderie that kept these outlaws afloat.

Feb 12, 2023 • 53min
7. Barti Ddu Part 1: The Early Years and Life at Sea
Delve into the life of Barti Ddu, a notorious Welsh pirate, as the hosts mix humor with historical insights. They share anecdotes about the whimsical transition from farmer to captain and explore the challenges of sailor diets at sea. Tales of rations, revelry, and the dual nature of pirate life paint a vivid picture of the 1700s maritime culture. Listeners will enjoy playful banter about quirky childhood lunches and light-hearted reflections on therapy. Join this entertaining journey filled with Welsh tradition and pirate antics!

Feb 5, 2023 • 1h 8min
6. Welsh Mythology
Dive into the enchanting world of Welsh mythology, where ancient heroes and whimsical creatures come alive! Enjoy humorous tales of Branwen and the mischievous Boo-bachs, along with the eerie charm of the Mari Lwyd tradition. Discover the legend of Cantragueilod's warning bells and the loyal hound Gellert's tragic fate. The hosts blend laughter with insights on culture, all while exploring the quirky side of dental disasters and ancient geography, making for a fun and unforgettable storytelling experience!

Jan 29, 2023 • 45min
5. The Welsh at the Battle of Falkirk
Dive into a humorous take on Welsh history as the hosts share their antics and reflections on the Battle of Falkirk. Enjoy tales of pub adventures and unexpected cultural festivals. The witty banter flows as they analyze the battle tactics of the Scottish against English archers, while also pondering their own ancestors' roles in this epic conflict. They mix personal anecdotes with insights on historical leadership shifts, making this blend of laughter and learning unforgettable.

Jan 22, 2023 • 35min
4. The Battle of Moel y Don
Join two friends as they blend humor with Welsh history, diving into the hilarity of the Battle of Moel y Don. They highlight the chaotic military blunders of 1282, especially the Welsh rebellion's spirit against English forces. From cheeky critiques of Edward Longshanks’ reign to playful musings on scouting adventures, the hosts bring nostalgia and laughter to historical battles. Expect to hear about absurd strategies and tongue-in-cheek awards like 'Dick of the Day' sprinkled throughout their narrative!


