Journey Through Time: New Podcast by Historians David Olusoga & Sarah Churchwell

A brand-new podcast, Journey Through Time, produced by Goalhanger, is set to redefine how we explore history. This compelling series delves into the forgotten, hidden, and lesser-known narratives that have shaped our world. Unlike conventional historical discussions centered on rulers and governments, Journey Through Time takes a grassroots approach, bringing to light the personal experiences, struggles, and resilience of ordinary individuals caught in extraordinary circumstances.

Podcast cover image: Journey Through Time - A History Podcast by David Olusoga & Sarah Churchwell

Contents hide

1 Meet the Hosts: Two Historians, One Mission

2 What to Expect from Journey Through Time

2.1 Upcoming Episodes: A Glimpse into the Past

2.1.1 The Black Tom Island Explosion: A Forgotten Act of Terrorism

2.2 More Riveting Episodes Ahead

2.2.1 Victoria Woodhull: The First Woman to Run for U.S. President (1872)

2.2.2 The Great Storm of 1703: Britain’s Most Violent Weather Event

2.2.3 The Murder of Stanford White: Scandal in America’s Gilded Age

2.2.4 The Great Exhibition of 1851: A Showcase of Britain’s Might and Insecurities

2.2.5 Bass Reeves: The Legendary U.S. Marshal of the Wild West

2.2.6 Anne Bonny & Mary Read: The Women Who Became Caribbean Pirates

3 Why This Podcast Stands Out

3.1 When & Where to Listen

Meet the Hosts: Two Historians, One Mission

The podcast is helmed by two distinguished historians: David Olusoga, a British-Nigerian historian and BAFTA-winning filmmaker, and Sarah Churchwell, an American cultural and literary historian serving as the Chair of Public Humanities at the University of London. Their combined expertise brings a dynamic and insightful perspective to historical storytelling, challenging mainstream narratives and uncovering overlooked truths.

David Olusoga: “History isn’t just about events in palaces or parliaments. We want to immerse listeners in what it felt like to live through these moments—how political decisions, technological advances, and the chaos of the past played out in homes, on streets, and battlefields.”

Sarah Churchwell: “Our goal is to peel back the layers of history, revealing the hidden stories and challenging widely accepted narratives. It’s about rethinking history as a force that continues to shape our present and future.”

What to Expect from Journey Through Time

Each episode blends storytelling with deep historical analysis, offering fresh perspectives on events both well-known and obscure. The show aims to challenge listeners’ understanding of the past while illuminating how these stories resonate today.

Upcoming Episodes: A Glimpse into the Past

The first two episodes of Journey Through Time kick off with a chilling historical event that reshaped America’s security landscape—yet it’s not 9/11.

The Black Tom Island Explosion: A Forgotten Act of Terrorism

In 1916, an explosion on Black Tom Island near New York Harbor sent shockwaves through Manhattan, ultimately leading to the formation of modern national security agencies.
The incident escalated tensions and played a pivotal role in America’s eventual entry into World War I.
Despite its profound impact, the event remains largely unknown to many today.

More Riveting Episodes Ahead

Victoria Woodhull: The First Woman to Run for U.S. President (1872)

Decades before women won the right to vote, Victoria Woodhull made history with her bold presidential campaign.
A trailblazer in feminism, free love, and finance, her story is one of defiance and ambition.

The Great Storm of 1703: Britain’s Most Violent Weather Event

This unprecedented storm left devastation in its wake, changing how England perceived natural disasters.
Analyzing its impact offers insights into historical climate patterns and disaster responses.

The Murder of Stanford White: Scandal in America’s Gilded Age

A shocking crime that exposed the darker side of wealth and influence in early 20th-century America.
A gripping tale of power, passion, and a high-profile courtroom drama.

The Great Exhibition of 1851: A Showcase of Britain’s Might and Insecurities

More than a display of industrial prowess, this exhibition also reflected the nation’s anxieties about progress and competition.

Bass Reeves: The Legendary U.S. Marshal of the Wild West

Born into slavery, Reeves became one of the most fearless and respected lawmen in American history.
His story challenges Hollywood’s portrayal of the Wild West.

Anne Bonny & Mary Read: The Women Who Became Caribbean Pirates

Defying the British Empire, these women carved out a place in pirate lore, proving that history is often more adventurous than fiction.

Why This Podcast Stands Out

Unique Storytelling: By focusing on the lived experiences of ordinary people, Journey Through Time offers a fresh take on well-worn historical events.
Uncovering Hidden Truths: Listeners will discover stories that have been buried or misrepresented over time.
Engaging Format: Blending in-depth research with compelling storytelling ensures that each episode is both educational and entertaining.

When & Where to Listen

Journey Through Time launches on Thursday, March 20, and will be available on major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.