Forbidden History

Forbidden History

Forbidden History is a documentary podcast series which explores the past’s darkest corners, sheds light on the lives of intriguing individuals, and uncovers the truth buried deep in history’s most controversial legacies. Each episode will delve into the history archives to reveal new perspectives on familiar stories. For advertising enquiries, email sales@auddy.co

Episodes

July 1, 2025 39 mins
In 1925, the SS Cotopaxi vanished without a trace while sailing through the infamous Bermuda Triangle, leaving behind no clear explanation. In this episode, we dive into the mysterious theories, and join experts on their hunt for the shipwreck... will they find what they're looking for? Cast List: Chuck Meide: Maritime Archaeologist Michael Barnette: Marine Biologist and Underwater Explorer Douglas Myers: Captain William Myer...
Mark as Played
What happened to Jesus between ages of 12 and 30? In this episode we explore the mystery of his "missing years," from ancient legends to modern theories, and what they reveal about faith, history, and the unknown. Cast List: Tony McMahon: Former BBC news producer, author, print journalist and historian  Eric Meyers: Narrator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mark as Played
Who was the St. Bees Man? In this episode, we continue exploring the incredible story of the Cumbrian Knight who was discovered in a lead shroud in 1981. This second instalment to the story has us trying to figure out exactly who this man was... Cast List: Tim Sutherland: Archaeologist, University of York Chris Robson: Local Expert Dr Robin Darwall-Smith: Magdalen College Archivist Ian McAndrew: Local GP Tim Guard: Author...
Mark as Played
Who was the St. Bees Man? In part one of this episode, we explore the incredible story of the Cumbrian Knight who was discovered in a lead shroud in 1981. With his body coated in beeswax, the man was found in a near perfect state of preservation... but how? Cast List: Tim Sutherland: Archaeologist, University of York Chris Robson: Local Expert Deirdre O’Sullivan: Archaeologist, University of Leicester Ian McAndrew: Local ...
Mark as Played
During World War II, Nazi Germany launched a secretive effort to harness the power of the atom - but how close did they really get to building a nuclear weapon? In this episode, we explore the science, the scientists, and the sabotage behind Hitler’s atomic ambitions. Was the world closer to a Nazi bomb than we realise, or was it doomed from the start? Cast List: Guy Walters: Author, historian and journalist  Eric Meyers: Narr...
Mark as Played
June 12, 2025 43 mins
In this episode, we journey to Portugal to uncover the secrets of the 1385 Battle of Aljubarrotta, where Portuguese forces and their English allies triumphed against the Castilians and French under the blazing August sun. An ancient ossuary filled with the battle’s fallen could unlock new insights into medieval warfare in Europe. Cast List: Tim Sutherland: Archaeologist, University of York Manuel Joao Matias: Dryas Octopetal...
Mark as Played
June 10, 2025 28 mins
In this episode, we explore the ancient biblical story of the Exodus, tracing the Israelites' journey from Egyptian slavery to the Promised Land. Join us as we uncover the historical, cultural, and spiritual significance of this legendary migration that has inspired countless generations. Cast List: Tony McMahon: Former BBC news producer, author, print journalist and historian  Eric Meyers: Narrator Learn more about your ad ch...
Mark as Played
Join us as we explore the surprisingly private and complex life of Henry VIII beyond his public image. From his refined tastes and athletic pursuits, this episode reveals a lesser-known side of the Tudor monarch. Cast List: Tracy Borman: Chief Curator, Historic Royal Palaces  Tony McMahon: Author & Journalist  Hallie Rubenhold: Author, ‘The Scandalous Lady W’ Dominic Selwood: Author & Journalist  Rebecca Rideal: Author, ‘...
Mark as Played
June 3, 2025 45 mins
In this episode, we investigate a medieval skeleton found near Lewes, Sussex, initially suspected to be a casualty of the Battle of Lewes in the 12th century. But with radiocarbon dating revealing an even older origin, possibly the Norman era, the research team delves into whether this could be the first skeletal link to the Battle of Hastings... Cast List: Tim Sutherland: Archaeologist, University Of York Malin Holst: Osteo...
Mark as Played
May 29, 2025 26 mins
In this episode we uncover the true origins of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, a story born from scientific curiosity and the eerie promise of reanimation. Over 200 years later, its questions about creation, responsibility, and the limits of human ambition are more prominent than ever in the age of artificial intelligence... Cast List: Guy Walters: Author, historian and journalist  Eric Meyers: Narrator Learn more about your ad c...
Mark as Played
May 27, 2025 36 mins
In this episode, we dive into the extravagant reign of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King" who ruled France for over 70 years. Discover how his obsession with absolute power and the lavish court life at Versailles transformed the French monarchy and left a lasting legacy on European culture. Cast List: Tracy Borman: Chief Curator, Historic Royal Palaces  Tony McMahon: Author & Journalist  Hallie Rubenhold: Author, ‘The Scandalou...
Mark as Played
May 22, 2025 43 mins
In 2013, a team of metal detectorists in Janakkala, Finland, stumbled upon something astonishing - a mysterious grave dating back over a thousand years. Buried with two swords, the extraordinary find suggests a link between Christians and Pagans.  Cast List: Tim Sutherland: Archaeologist  Simo Vanhatalo: Archaeological Field Services, Museuivirasto Paul Macdonald: Sword maker, MacDonald Armouries Rachel Wood: University of Y...
Mark as Played
May 20, 2025 30 mins
In this episode, we journey into one of the most enduring conspiracy theories of the 20th century: Did NASA really land astronauts on the Moon in 1969, or was it an elaborate hoax filmed on a Hollywood soundstage? We explore the origins of the Apollo moon landing conspiracy theory, discuss the most common claims made by skeptics, and examine how science, photography, and cold war politics fuelled both belief and doubt. Cast List...
Mark as Played
In this episode, we unpack the life of King George III, his battles with mental illness and how they forced his son, the Prince Regent, into power. As the king faded from public life, the prince indulged in grand architectural dreams and lavish tastes, ushering in a new era shaped by crisis, culture, and conflict. Cast List: Tracy Borman: Chief Curator, Historic Royal Palaces   Tony McMahon: Author & Journalist  Hallie Rubenh...
Mark as Played
In this episode, we’re joined by Tony McMahon to explore the life and legacy of James, the so-called “brother” of Jesus. Was James an early leader in the Jerusalem church whose influence shaped the foundation of Christianity, and a truly a devoted follower of Jesus? Or are there hidden texts or Gnostic writings that reveal a different James than the one we’re told about... Cast List: Tony McMahon: Former BBC news producer, au...
Mark as Played
May 8, 2025 39 mins
In this episode we explore the Nazi regime’s radical urban planning ambitions, from Hitler’s vision for “Germania” - a colossal, totalitarian capital meant to eclipse all others, to the destruction of Warsaw. Cast List: Guy Walters: A British author, historian, and journalist who has written several books on WWII. As a journalist for The Times, he writes on historical topics for the national press. Nicholas O’Shaughnessy: P...
Mark as Played
In this episode we’re joined by historian and author, Guy Walters, as we explore the mysterious world of the Freemasons - their origins, symbols, rituals, and the conspiracy theories that swirl around them. From medieval stonemasons to modern lodges, discover what’s fact, what’s fiction, and why they’ve fascinated the public for centuries. Cast List: Guy Walters: Author & Historian  Eric Meyers: Narrator  Learn more about your...
Mark as Played
How did Hermann Göring, Hitler’s second-in-command, cheat the hangman at Nuremberg? This episode unpacks the mysterious circumstances of his death, his manipulative charm, and the unsettling bond he formed with U.S. Army psychiatrist Lt. Colonel Douglas M. Kelley. Cast List: Dr. Linda Papadopoulos: Psychologist Nigel Jones: Author & Historian  Jack El-Hai: Author, 'The Nazi and the Psychiatrist' Frank McDonough: Author & His...
Mark as Played
Behind the image of a stern monarch, Queen Victoria lived a deeply emotional life marked by personal tragedies, private struggles with grief and the quiet use of laudanum. This episode explores Victoria’s intense relationships, from her devotion to Prince Albert to her rumoured bond with John Brown - alongside the assassination attempts and hidden vulnerabilities that shaped the woman beneath the crown. Cast List: Tracy Borma...
Mark as Played
Enter Montana’s infamous penitentiary and hear the explosive story of a tense siege, the firing of bazookas and a maverick warden.  -- Bringing you a bonus episode from a brand new podcast from the Like A Shot network. Join historian Sascha Auerbach, and comedian Tom Ward, as they reveal the incredible stories behind eerie ghost towns, ruined mansions, forgotten factories, crumbling castles, wartime relics, haunted prisons, and m...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    United States of Kennedy is a podcast about our cultural fascination with the Kennedy dynasty. Every week, hosts Lyra Smith and George Civeris go into one aspect of the Kennedy story.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club

    Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.

    The Breakfast Club

    The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!

    24/7 News: The Latest

    The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.