WW2 Pod: We Have Ways of Making You Talk
Goalhanger
The World War II podcast with comedian Al Murray and historian James Holland.We Have Ways of Making You Talk dives deep into WWII history, exploring key battles, forgotten front lines, and incredible untold stories. Whether you're fascinated by the Battle of Britain, the D-Day landings, or the Eastern Front, this show offers a rich, detailed look at the war that shaped the modern world.Al and James bring a unique blend of expert knowledge and humour, discussing everything from the Third Reich, Churchill's leadership, and the Fall of Berlin, to World War 2 tanks, fighter planes, and naval battles. Expect historical insights, lively tangents, and discussions on iconic second world war events like Operation Barbarossa, the Pacific Theatre, and the North African campaign.Join our membership club for extra content, livestreams and ad-free listening: patreon.com/wehavewaysFor more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 6, 2019 • 13min
18. Taking the Trench
James Holland, WWII historian, relives being a British soldier at the Chalk Valley History Festival, facing SS forces in a trench. Detailed discussions on battlefield medical procedures and equipment, emphasizing the importance of quick medical care and penicillin in saving lives during wartime.
Jul 5, 2019 • 18min
17. Messing About in Tanks
Exploring the interior of WWII tanks, crew positions, and vulnerabilities. Tactical strategies, ammunition storage, crew roles, and engineering features highlighted. Hosts share their excitement at Chalk Valley History Festival surrounded by Sherman and Panzer IV tanks.
Jul 4, 2019 • 20min
16. I fought at Dunkirk and saw Harold Larwood bowl
John Hamilton, a 101-year-old Dunkirk veteran, shares his intense fitness regime and memories of shooting down a Stuka at Dunkirk. He recalls attending Lords in 1932, being coached by Patsy Hendron, and encounters in the cricketing world. Hamilton vividly describes his chaotic experience at Dunkirk, facing bombing raids, helping wounded men, and escaping on a destroyer.
19 snips
Jul 3, 2019 • 24min
Ten Things You Didn’t Know About D-Day
Renowned historian Professor Peter Caddick-Adams shares extraordinary D-Day stories, including diverse nation involvement, British armored vehicles at American beaches, and the journey of an American paratrooper. Insights on senior officers' deaths, German Army composition, Russian soldiers' struggles, Canadian heroics, and the impact of alcohol on British morale are also explored.
Jul 2, 2019 • 57min
14. Live at the Chalke Valley History Festival
Comedian and historian Al Murray, alongside historian and author James Holland, discuss Nazis in Allied uniforms, the potential of the US dropping an atomic bomb on Germans, and answer questions from a live audience at the Chalke Valley History Festival.
Jun 25, 2019 • 38min
13. The Soldbuch
This podcast discusses a German soldier's life through his identity papers, a Russian boy as a mascot, Hitler's close call in Normandy, and Eisenhower's field prowess. The hosts explore Rommel's visit, diverse soldier stories, German tactics in the Ardennes, espionage resistance movements, and personal possessions.
Jun 18, 2019 • 49min
12. Our Russian Friends
James Holland and Al Murray debate Russia's role in defeating the Nazis. They discuss French civilian experiences in Normandy, the Daily Telegraph crossword mystery, and American army uniforms. Topics also include the West African Frontier Force, Indian soldiers in Burma, challenges combating Japanese forces, D-Day veterans, glider landings, and comparisons of military tactics in WWII battles.
Jun 11, 2019 • 42min
11. Smoking Snakes
James Holland and Al Murray discuss the Brazilian Expeditionary Force in WW2, debate the raid on Dieppe, and the incompetence of German Intelligence. They also explore the use of special forces, timelines of divisions, Irish neutrality, and testing Atlantic Wall defenses.
Jun 4, 2019 • 45min
10. The Thing About Hitler...
Comedian Al Murray and historian James Holland discuss Hitler's personal life, air power in World War II, Russian Night Witches, and try on British Battledress jacket. They also explore Hitler's image, fame, and branding, debunk testicle rumors, and delve into German strategic decisions in World War II.
May 28, 2019 • 40min
9. Bunker Busting
Tank warfare in Normandy explored, including German tactics and British anti-tank weapons. The infamous Michael Wittmann and his actions at Villa Bocage discussed. Legacy of WWII tank destruction and respect for graveyards highlighted. Book release and live podcast event details shared.
