Take On the World Podcast

Epi 142 Leyte Gulf: The Naval Brawl That Broke Japan’s Back

In this episode of Take On The World, we steam straight into the largest naval battle in history and the brutal campaign that led to Philippine independence. From the U.S. grabbing the Philippines in 1898, to MacArthur’s “I have returned,” to kamikazes, Taffy 3’s insane underdog stand, and the political tug‑of‑war that ended with independence in 1946, we connect the dots between empire, strategy, and some truly unbelievable moments of World War II. If you’ve ever wondered how one stretch of water could help break the Imperial Japanese Navy and reshape the Pacific, this is your port of call.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#takeontheworld #podcastrecomendation #navalhistory #pacificwar #BattleOfLeyteGulfOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

Kursk: The Submarine Russia Couldn’t Save – TOTW Epi 141

This episode of the TOTW Podcast with hosts John and Mike D dives deep into one of the most infamous naval disasters in modern history: the sinking of the Russian submarine Kursk in August 2000. You break down what made the Kursk and its Oscar II–class sisters so massive and formidable, how a faulty torpedo likely triggered two devastating explosions, and why only 23 sailors initially survived before succumbing in the darkness. You also walk through the complex 2001 salvage operation, the decision to cut off the destroyed bow, and how politics, secrecy, and damaged public trust in Russia turned a tragedy into a long‑lasting symbol of systemic failure.Along the way, the conversation widens to Russia’s “Dead Hand” nuclear response concept, the ideological divide between the U.S. and Russia, and the ongoing war in Ukraine—tying the Kursk’s legacy to today’s geopolitical tensions. True to TOTW style, you also veer into everyday life: grinding commutes, red lights, school buses, and wrapping it all up over beers from Mike D’s favorite local brewery. It’s an episode that connects history, strategy, politics, and real life in one compelling discussion.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#TakeOnTheWorld#TheDen#podcastrecommendations #Kursk#KurskDisaster#SubmarineDisaster#RussianNavy#ColdWarLegacy#NuclearWeapons#DeadHandOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

Sports Glory, Iconic Foods & Military Roots: Pennsylvania Edition

In this exciting episode of the TOTW Podcast, hosts John and Mike D dive deep into the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s history and culture. They explore the unparalleled sports tradition found in teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Phillies, celebrating their iconic championship victories. The discussion also highlights mouthwatering local foods such as Philly cheesesteaks and scrapple, and the crucial role Pennsylvania played in the birth of the United States—including the creation of the Army, Navy, and Marines.Listeners will gain fascinating insights into how Pennsylvania shaped American history and sports success, with anecdotes and facts showcasing the state’s unique character. Tune in for engaging stories, local pride, and a journey through the keystone to American heritage.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpodWe are a proud part of the Deluxe Edition Network .... Check out The Other Great Shows on our network at http://www.deluxeeditionnetwork.com#TakeOnTheWorld#Pennsylvania#PhillyCheesesteak#SteelersNation#EaglesFans#Phillies#USHistory#AmericanRevolution#MilitaryOrigins#PAFood#PodcastEpisode#SportsChampions#EastCoastEats# PodcastRecommendationOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

Epi 139 Diving Into Danger: Byford Dolphin Accident, Saturation Diving & Unbelievable Stories

Join John and Mike D on this gripping episode of Take On The World (TOTW) as they dive deep into the infamous 1983 Byford Dolphin diving bell decompression accident—one of the most shocking tragedies in commercial diving history. Mike D shares firsthand diving stories, revealing both the dangers and the camaraderie of a life underwater. Things take a twist when Mike recounts a practical joke about a fake diving accident that still doesn’t sit well with John, adding humor and tension to the discussion.The episode covers the harsh realities of decompression sickness, the complexities of saturation diving, and examines several other historical saturation diving accidents. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime disasters, diving technology, or just love compelling stories from real pros, this episode will keep you hooked from start to finish.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod Check out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpodWe are a proud part of the Deluxe Edition Network .... Check out The Other Great Shows on our network at http://www.deluxeeditionnetwork.com#TakeOnTheWorld#podcastrecomendation #ByfordDolphin#SaturationDiving#DivingAccidents#DecompressionSickness#DeepSeaDivingOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

Epi 137 UNBELIEVABLE! Talking Plasma, UFOs & UAPs EXPOSED by Insiders!

In this captivating episode, we delve into the mysterious world of Talking Plasma, UFOs, and UAPs, exploring the revelations brought forth by government whistle-blowers. Discover the secrets hidden within classified files and the stories of those who dare to speak out. Join us as we unravel the truth behind the veil of secrecy and question what lies beyond our understanding. Tune in for an eye-opening journey into the unknown.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod Check out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpodWe are a proud part of the Deluxe Edition Network .... Check out The Other Great Shows on our network at http://www.deluxeeditionnetwork.com#TakeOnTheWorld #Talkingplasma #UFOS #UAPS #PodcastRecomendationOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413