University of London historian co-hosts new podcast exploring untold histories

Produced by Goalhanger, the creators of popular podcasts such as The Rest Is History and The Rest is Politics, the series promises to unearth the hidden layers of the past, bringing to light stories and perspectives often ignored.

“We don’t just tell you what happened in the past; we want to show you what it felt to live through it,” said co-host David Olusoga.

Co-host Professor Sarah Churchwell added, “We want to uncover the hidden layers of history—stories of ordinary people navigating extraordinary times. Our goal is to challenge familiar narratives and reveal the surprising truths behind what you think you know—or maybe haven’t thought to question. It’s about understanding history not just as something we study, but as the force that shaped our world.”

The podcast aligns with the University of London’s commitment to fostering a deeper and more inclusive understanding of history and the humanities. Journey Through Time will focus on the experiences of ordinary people and the unexpected ways in which major events have shaped everyday life. The podcast will delve into how political decisions, technological advancements, and even chance occurrences have played out "on the street, within the home or on the battlefield," said Olusoga.

The first episode, available on all major platforms from today (20 March 2025), will tackle a little-known but significant terrorist attack in America: the 1916 Black Tom Island explosion. Olusoga and Churchwell will explore how this devastating event in New York contributed to the creation of America's modern security state and its eventual entry into the First World War.

Future episodes will continue to explore a wide range of historical topics, including the remarkable story of Victoria Woodhull, the first woman to run for president of the United States in 1872; the impact of the Great Storm of 1703, the most violent weather event ever recorded in England; and the scandalous murder of architect Stanford White, which exposed the darker aspects of America’s Gilded Age. Listeners can also look forward to episodes revisiting the Great Exhibition of 1851 and uncovering the true story of Bass Reeves, a formerly enslaved man who became a legendary US Marshal.

Professor Sarah Churchwell, as Chair of Public Humanities at the University of London, is an expert in American cultural and literary history, focusing on how literature and history shape national myths and icons. Professor Churchwell is a regular contributor to newspapers including the Guardian, New Statesman and the Financial Times.

David Olusoga is Professor of Public History at the University of Manchester. Through his television work and writing, Professor Olusoga has sought to make history inclusive, expansive and diverse.