History Defeats Itself - podcast cover

History Defeats Itself

Kevin Rosenquist, John Banks, and Greg Mitchellhistorydefeatsitself.com

Kevin Rosenquist, John Banks, and Greg Mitchell discuss events and people that exemplify how humans never really learn from their history. The show is part history podcast, part society and culture podcast, and all comedy podcast. Sometimes clever, sometimes sophomoric, but always entertaining, the boys are here to put a smile on your face.
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Episodes

The War on Christmas, Krampus, and the Underwear Bomber

It's the HDI 2024 Holiday Extravaganza! Kevin discusses the outrage some have over people saying Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas. Greg educates us on the history of Krampus. And John talks about the Underwear Bomber. Spike your eggnog, get cozy, and celebrate the season with your three favorite knuckleheads.

Dec 13, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 136

Robert Hanssen, Movie Remakes, and Minimum Wage

In this episode of HDI, Greg discusses the FBI man turned Russian spy, Robert Hanssen, Kevin wonders why Hollywood continues to remake movies despite their lack of success, and John discusses minimum wage, and how it's not a livable wage in the slightest sense.

Oct 29, 20241 hr 4 minEp. 135

Gratitude, OnlyFans, and Critics

In this episode the crew discusses gratitude, how OnlyFans is dominating the porn industry, and we debate whether there is still a place for professional critics in today's society.

Oct 04, 20241 hr 13 minEp. 134

Go $@%! Yourself, Good Habits, and a Terrifying Bromance

In this episode, Greg wonders what circumstances warrant telling someone to go F themselves. John discusses how good habits can be developed, how to break bad ones, and why Kevin should make his bed every day. And Kevin expresses his concerns about the budding bromance between Elon Musk and Donald Trump.

Aug 22, 20241 hr 46 minEp. 133

Louisiana's Commandment, The Pros and Cons of Splitting the Atom, and Procrastination | Comedy Podcast

The boys are back! In this episode, Kevin talks about Louisiana forcing public schools to display the ten commandments in every classroom, as well as Oklahoma forcing public schools to teach the Bible as part of its curriculum. John talks about the pros and cons of splitting the atom - nuclear war is bad but medical advances are good. And Greg, who clearly didn't put any effort in, talks about procrastination.

Jul 16, 20241 hr 31 minEp. 132

Poyais Hoax: History's Ultimate Land Scam | History Defeats Itself Comedy Podcast

Dive into the captivating story of the Poyais Scheme, the ultimate historical scam by Gregor MacGregor, who sold dreams of a nonexistent paradise to hundreds. Explore how this 19th-century con artist created Poyais, duping settlers and investors alike, and the stark reality that awaited them. From MacGregor's early exploits to the scheme's fallout and its place in the annals of financial frauds, this episode uncovers the allure of utopian dreams and the timeless lessons of history's audacious sc...

Mar 13, 202452 minEp. 130

The Snobbery of Being a Music Snob | History Defeats Itself Comedy Podcast

Have you or someone you know been affected by music snobbery? Have you fallen victim to ridicule from elitists who think their supposed deeper understanding of music makes you look inferior? You've come to the right place. Because Greg is talking about being a music snob. Kevin is on the same page. John thinks they're just dicks. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Feb 28, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 129

From Mexico with Love: Drug Trafficking | History Defeats Itself Comedy Podcast

Join us as we embark on a journey through the complex web of drug trafficking from Mexico. We'll discuss the smugglers' innovations and the unintended consequences that ripple through societies. Laugh and learn with us as we unpack the serious topic of drug trafficking with our usual dose of comedy and historical insight. A must-listen for those who enjoy a giggle with their gritty realities! https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself...

Feb 14, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 128

The Great Alaskan Volcano Prank | History Defeats Itself Comedy Podcast

Join us in this intriguing episode as we delve into the humorous tale of the Mount Edgecumbe volcano hoax – a masterful April Fools' prank pulled off by Oliver 'Porky' Bickar in 1974. Discover how a sleepy Alaskan town was stirred by billowing smoke from a dormant volcano, leading to a mix of panic, confusion, and, ultimately, laughter. We unravel the planning, execution, and aftermath of one of history's most audacious pranks. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Jan 31, 202444 minEp. 127

Sawney Bean: Gruesome Tales from Scotland | History Defeats Itself Comedy Podcast

Dive into the dark legend of Sawney Bean as we explore the grisly tale of Scotland's most infamous clan leader and cannibal. Was Bean a real figure or just folklore? We dissect this macabre story, blending historical facts with our humorous take. Perfect for fans of true crime and quirky history. Subscribe for more episodes where humor meets the bizarre corners of the past. Discover More - linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Jan 17, 202448 minEp. 126

I Ate Too Much Borscht | A Comedy Podcast

We're back! After a holiday break in which there was much yuletide cheer and a successful stint as a mall Santa by John, despite there being no malls anymore, we're back in action. John leads the first episode of 2024 on the topic of Nikola Tesla. An inventor, pioneer, and borscht fan (probably) Tesla changed the world as much as anyone ever has. We're here to talk about. Plus, Greg is on location from his bathroom. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Jan 03, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 125

Elf on the Shelf | A Comedy Podcast

On a very special episode of History Defeats Itself, John and Kevin record in the same room. And it is very special. Also, we discuss the Elf on the Shelf. Adorable Christmas tradition? Or Big Brother-esque spy tool designed to prepare kids for a lifetime of surveillance. You decide. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Nov 29, 202354 minEp. 124

Dengue Fever | A Comedy Podcast

If you need a reason to hate mosquitos, outside of the annoyance, itchiness, and intense smell of deet-infused repellent products, you can also get dengue fever. Fun! Tune in to learn more. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Nov 15, 20231 hr 3 minEp. 123

Cats | A Comedy Podcast

If you often find yourself wondering, "What is the historical and cultural impact of felines," you've come to the right place. On this episode, John enlightens his co-hosts, and the world, about all things cats. Also, we discuss chlamydia and The Shawshank Redemption. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Nov 01, 202358 minEp. 122

Monsters | A Comedy Podcast

In honor of Halloween (or All Hallow's Eve for those of you from the old country), Kevin leads the crew in a vibrant discussion about Monsters. Don't worry, John only gets scared a few times. https://linktr.ee/historydefeatsitself

Oct 18, 20231 hr 3 minEp. 121

Dementia | A Comedy Podcast

One of the toughest things a family can go through is watching a loved one battle dementia. It's also something people don't talk enough about. In this episode, we discuss this illness's ins and outs and even tell some jokes along the way. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Oct 04, 20231 hr 7 minEp. 120

Stop Signs vs Roundabouts | A Comedy Podcast

Have you ever sat down and really thought about how much better the world would be if we replaced stop signs with roundabouts? No, of course, you haven't. That would be insane. But John did. So join us as he leads the classic debate about what method of managing small intersections is best. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Sep 21, 202356 minEp. 119

Free Will | A Comedy Podcast

After being needlessly ridiculed by John and Greg simply for having an opinion too advanced for them to understand, Kevin decided to lead his own philosophical episode, this time discussing free will. Do we have as much control over our lives as we'd like to think we do? We'll answer that question definitively, with no room for ambiguity or debate, once and for all. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Sep 06, 20231 hr 10 minEp. 118

Opinions | A Comedy Podcast

Not to be outdone by last episode's foray into philosophy by John, Greg is leading the charge this time on another philosophical-ish topic: people's difficulty changing their opinions. At least, I think that's what it was about.

Aug 23, 20231 hr 2 minEp. 117

History Defeats Itself | A Comedy Podcast

In this episode John goes literal and leads a discussion on how history has defeated itself for generations and even provides data points as to why we keep doing this. If we're not careful, it could be end of times. Come for the data, stay for the apocalypse.

Aug 09, 202357 minEp. 115

The Dancing Plague | A Comedy Podcast

Imagine walking down the street, turning the corner, and you're suddenly looking at hundreds of people dancing like crazy for no apparent reason whatsoever. That's what happened in 1518. Learn along with John and Greg as Kevin gives the deets on the Dancing Plague. Also, John records from the road, and Greg's newborn granddaughter makes an appearance. She's already better at this than us. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Jul 26, 202342 minEp. 115

H. H. Holmes | A Comedy Podcast

In our first foray into true crime Greg discusses notorious serial killer, H. H. Holmes and how he used the Chicago Worlds Fair as a hunting ground. Move over, Eric Larson, Greg is the new historical fiction authority now. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Jul 12, 20231 hrEp. 114

The Art of the Duel | A Comedy Podcast

Brad Pitt once asked Edward Norton, "How much can you know about yourself if you've never been in a duel?" Or something like that. In this episode, John talks to Greg about dueling. It's the first episode where one of us wasn't able to be there, as Kevin was fighting off some sort of plague.

Jun 28, 202347 minEp. 113

The Ford Pinto | A Comedy Podcast

Exploding cars are never good. But they're worse when auto execs know they could happen but choose profits over people. Yay, Capitalism! In this episode, the crew talks about the legendary Ford Pinto in all its fiery glory. https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself

Jun 14, 202350 minEp. 112

Dean Karnazes | History Defeats Itself #111

Dean Karnazes, known as the Ultramarathon Man, does some crazy things. How crazy? In 2005 he ran 350 miles in 80 hours and 44 minutes without sleep. Why, you ask? Hell if we know. But we have plenty to say about it in the latest episode.

May 31, 20231 hr 14 minEp. 111

Tucker Carlson | History Defeats Itself #110

There was a time when #journalists were thought of as trustworthy thought leaders who enlightened us with #facts and #insights. They were people who cared about #humanity, had empathy, and wanted what was best for everyone. Then there is #TuckerCarlson, who so eloquently said that "women are primitive" and need to "do what they're told." And people say chivalry is dead. In this episode, John leads a discussion about the "journalist" that was recently let go by Fox News, Tucker Carlson. Or, as he...

May 17, 20231 hr 7 minEp. 110

The New Coke Debacle | History Defeats Itself #109

How can one of the world’s most iconic #brands suddenly decide to change its #recipe ? It’s a good question. But #Coke did it back in the #80s. What prompted this change? Was it the #colawars with #Pepsi? Was it arrogance? Was it #Schlitz? We look at every angle. Please subscribe and share! Greg has crippling gambling debts he needs to pay off. Follow us at https://bio.site/historydefeatsitself Send us love letters at historydefeatsitself@gmail.com #Podcast #Comedy #ComedyPodcast #History #Histo...

May 03, 202350 minEp. 109

What's a city in New Hampshire?

Greg wants you to be safe. It’s one of his missions in doing this podcast. That’s why this episode is dedicated to the history and innovation of the seatbelt. Join us as we discuss the origins of the simple yet vital apparatus that saves lives all the time. Plus, we ponder whether New Hampshire has cities or if it’s just woodlands. Man, we’re just not very bright.

Apr 19, 202353 minEp. 108

The Bizarre Dictatorship of Saparmurat Niyazov | History Defeats Itself

In this episode, Kevin, John, and Greg take you on a wild ride through the absurd world of Saparmurat Niyazov, Turkmenistan's most eccentric dictator. Prepare to be amazed as John leads us through the quirkiest moments of Niyazov's rule, from renaming months after his family members to making Melon Day a priority. Find out how this outlandish leader exemplifies the folly of history and what we can learn from his peculiar reign. Laugh, learn, and shake your head in disbelief with your favorite co...

Apr 05, 202356 minEp. 107
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