History Date Night: A WWII Podcast

Episode 16 - A Hard Year

This episode of History Date Night reviews December 1939, as WWII reshapes the world. Highlights include the RAF's disastrous daylight raid at Heligoland Bight, German and British clashes near America, and the revelation of German shipborne radar. The episode covers brutal Soviet and Nazi occupations in Poland, Finland's fierce resistance against the USSR, and the global mood at Christmas. Key military tech advances and a devastating Turkish earthquake close a year that leaves 1940 shrouded in uncertainty and fear.

Episode 15 - The End of the Spee

This episode of History Date Night covers Finland's first major Winter War victories, the League of Nations' historic expulsion of the Soviet Union, RAF's costly daylight bombing lessons, the dramatic Battle of the River Plate and Graf Spee's scuttling, Canada's rapid military buildup, Allied air training plans, Hitler's order for Norway's invasion, and the resilience of wartime Paris. It closes with the somber reality of Warsaw's occupation.

Episode 14 - Closing In

This episode covers December 1-10, 1939: the Soviet Union establishes a Finnish puppet government, the B-29 project begins, Nazi gas vans are used for mass murder in Poland, Norway’s fascist leader meets Hitler, Germany’s Nobel laureates are forced to decline their prizes, and Finland fights alone against Soviet invasion. Meanwhile, the Graf Spee and three British cruisers head toward a dramatic naval showdown in the South Atlantic.

History Date Night: Memorial Day Special

This Memorial Day episode explores the origins and meaning of the holiday, from its roots after the Civil War to its evolution through World War II. Hosts Justin and Jennie discuss how Memorial Day honors fallen soldiers, the personal impact of war, and the importance of making remembrance personal. They encourage listeners to reflect, remember family stories, and honor those who sacrificed for the country.

Episode 13 - The Mine in The Mud

This episode covers the lead up to the Winter War. Highlights include the British defusing a German magnetic mine, the heroic sinking of HMS Rawalpindi, a Soviet false flag that sparks war with Finland, and the safe keeping of the Magna Carta in the US. The episode ends with the Soviet invasion of Finland on November 30, 1939, as outnumbered Finns prepare to defend their homeland. Other world events include Hitler's war plans, escalating persecution in Poland, and the death of basketball's inventor.