A Brief History

A Brief History

Step into the time machine with A Brief History, where each episode unpacks the surprising origins, forgotten moments, and pivotal turning points that shaped our world. Ryan Spanier blends sharp analysis with rich storytelling to make history feel fresh, relevant, and irresistibly curious. Whether you're a casual listener or a deep thinker, this podcast offers bize-sized journeys through the past that illuminate the present - all with a dash of wit and a keen eye for the unexpected. History, but make it brief. And brilliant.

Episodes

September 12, 2025 30 mins

In this episode, we journey back to the 17th century to uncover the rise of one of history's most powerful and controversial corporations. The East India Company began as a modest trading venture and evolved into a global force that shaped economies, toppled kingdoms, and laid the groundwork for modern capitalism.

Discover how a royal charter turned a group of London merchants into imperial agents, how tea, textiles, and spices fue...

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From a five-and-dime in Northwest Arkansas to a global retail empire—this is the story of Walmart.

Built in Bentonville explores the origins, growth, and cultural impact of the world's largest retailer. This episode dives into pivotal moments in Walmart's history—from Sam Walton's entrepreneurial spark to the innovations that reshaped supply chains, labor practices, and consumer habits across the globe.

Whether you're a business st...

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August 15, 2025 15 mins

Step into the world of Adam Smith, the 18th-century thinker whose ideas forever changed how we understand morality, society, and the economy. From The Theory of Moral Sentiments to The Wealth of Nations, this episode explores Smith's life, his philosophy, and his lasting influence on everything from modern economics to everyd...

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August 14, 2025 10 mins

From ancient amulets and Silk Road trade to modern jewelry and spiritual healing, opalites have carried a story as luminous as the stones themselves. In this episode, we explore the fascinating history of opalites - tracing their geological origins, cultural symbolism, and enduring allure across civilizations.

 

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August 12, 2025 10 mins

Journey through the fascinating history of artificial intelligence, from ancient legends of mechanical beings to today's powerful generative models. Explore the key breakthroughs, visionary thinkers, and pivotal moments that shaped AI, along with the challenges and ethical questions that define its future. Perfect for tech enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone curious about how we went from myth to machine.

 

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