Plausibly Live! - The Official Podcast Of The Dave Bowman Show

On October 28, 1919, Congress made history by overriding President Woodrow Wilson’s veto of the Volstead Act, ushering in one of America’s most controversial social experiments: Prohibition. In this episode of Dave Does History, we explore how the Volstead Act became law, the powerful temperance movement behind it, and the explosive consequences that followed. From the optimism of reformers to the rise of bootlegging and organized crime, we trace the unintended legacy of America’s “dry” era. Join us for a deep look into the limits of legislation and the lessons learned from an era that redefined law, liberty, and public morality.

Celebrate the birthday of one of America’s most iconic figures, Theodore Roosevelt, in this episode where we walk through his extraordinary life, from his rugged days on the Dakota frontier to the heights of the presidency. Discover how Roosevelt’s bold spirit and relentless determination reshaped the American landscape and influenced the nation’s role on the world stage. We’ll talk about his early struggles with illness, his cowboy adventures, and his legendary charge up San Juan Hill. Join us as we explore Roosevelt’s legacy as a conservationist, trust-buster, and trailblazing leader who continues to inspire generations.

In this latest episode of What the Frock?, Rabbi Dave and Friar Rod dive into the bizarre trend of comparing political figures to Hitler, dissecting the frenzy in the media and the public's baffling reactions. They explore the persistent echoes of Godwin's Law, the internet's unofficial rule on Nazi comparisons, and take a humorous yet critical look at recent headlines. They also ponder AI’s growing influence in broadcasting, creativity, and even personal relationships—bringing up questions about where humans fit in a digital age. Plus, they share some unusual Halloween history and the most unexpected trick-or-treat "treats" in the U.S., just in time for spooky season. Get ready for spirited banter, insightful observations, and a dash of Halloween nostalgia.

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran. From his early rise to power amidst World War II to his ambitious modernization plans through the White Revolution, Pahlavi’s reign was marked by both progress and controversy. We dive into the grand spectacle of his 1967 coronation, a symbolic high point meant to showcase Iran’s strength and his authority. But as the Shah pursued sweeping reforms, discontent simmered among the Iranian people, ultimately leading to the 1979 Revolution and the fall of his dynasty. Join us as we unpack the complexities of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi’s vision for Iran, the resistance he faced, and the legacy he left behind.

In this heartfelt episode, "Ain't Baseball Great?" Dave Bowman reminisces about his unlikely and profound connection to the Los Angeles Dodgers, a relationship that dates back to October 1978. With nostalgia, he revisits unforgettable moments in Dodgers history—like Bob Welch's iconic strikeout of Reggie Jackson in '78, the tension-filled 1981 postseason, and the legendary '88 season. But it’s more than just stats and scores. Dave shares how the Dodgers became his anchor, from helping him survive Navy boot camp to inspiring resilience in life’s challenges, even some painful ones involving the dentist’s chair. Listen in as he reflects on baseball’s enduring impact, why some seasons define a lifetime, and why, for him, the Dodgers are forever a symbol of hope and perseverance.

In this episode of *Dave Does History*, we explore one of the most remarkable naval engagements of World War II: the Battle off Samar. Against overwhelming odds, the brave sailors of TAFFY-3 faced down a vastly superior Japanese fleet in a desperate fight for survival. We'll cover the strategic situation leading to the battle, the heroism of commanders like Rear Admiral Clifton Sprague and Commander Ernest Evans, and the shocking decision by the Japanese to withdraw. Learn how this David vs. Goliath clash fits into the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf and helped turn the tide of the Pacific War. Don't miss this gripping account of courage, sacrifice, and unexpected victory that continues to inspire generations of Americans.

In this episode, we take you back to October 24, 1886, when the British cargo steamer Normanton sank off the coast of Japan, leading to the tragic loss of 25 Japanese passengers. We’ll explore the actions of the ship’s crew, the exoneration of the captain, and the injustice that ignited a national movement in Japan. From the formation of the Great Empire of Japan Marine Rescue Group to the legacy of this disaster in shaping Japan’s modern identity and its international relations with Great Britain, this story reveals much about the power dynamics and racial tensions of the era. Join us as we delve into one of the most significant maritime incidents of the 19th century, a tragedy that pushed Japan to stand firm against Western imperialism.

In this episode of Dave Does History, we find one of the most pivotal moments of World War II—the Second Battle of El Alamein. Fought between October 23 and November 4, 1942, this decisive clash marked a major turning point in the North African Campaign. Join us as we explore the battle’s background, the key figures like General Bernard Montgomery and Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, and the brutal desert warfare that unfolded. We’ll unpack how this victory for the Allies shifted the momentum in the war and set the stage for Operation Torch. We also reflect on the legacy of El Alamein, which Winston Churchill famously said was the line where the tide turned for the Allies. Whether you're a history buff or new to World War II, this episode is packed with insightful analysis and vivid storytelling.

Hawley Harvey Crippen, an American homeopathic doctor, became infamous for his role in one of the most sensational murder cases of the early 20th century. Born in Michigan in 1862, Crippen moved to London, where he lived with his wife, Cora, a music hall performer. Their relationship was troubled, and in 1910, after Cora mysteriously disappeared, Crippen claimed she had returned to America. Suspicion arose when police discovered a dismembered body in the cellar of their home, leading Crippen to flee with his secretary and lover, Ethel Le Neve. Crippen’s capture marked a historic moment in criminal investigations, as it was the first case in which radio technology was used to apprehend a fugitive. When Crippen and Ethel attempted to escape by ship to Canada, the ship's captain recognized them and used the newly developed wireless telegraph to alert authorities. Scotland Yard inspector Walter Dew intercepted the pair in Canada, making Crippen’s arrest one of the most dramatic and well-publicized manhunts of th

In this thrilling episode of Dave Does History, we take you to the heart of the Battle of Trafalgar, fought on October 21, 1805. Admiral Horatio Nelson, Britain’s legendary naval commander, confronts the combined Franco-Spanish fleet led by Admiral Pierre-Charles Villeneuve. We’ll walk through the build-up to the battle, examine the strategic moves of both sides, and explore the bold decisions that led to a decisive British victory. Discover how Nelson’s innovative tactics secured Britain’s naval supremacy and what this meant for the course of the Napoleonic Wars. With the clash of cannons, the chaos of naval combat, and the ultimate sacrifice of Nelson himself, this episode captures the drama and far-reaching consequences of the battle that changed the course of history. Join me on Dave Does History as we recount the full story of Trafalgar, from the leaders to the legacy. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

On this episode of Dave Does History, we tackle one of the most controversial and pivotal moments in college football history: the Johnny Bright Incident. On October 20, 1951, during a heated game between Drake University and Oklahoma A&M, star African American quarterback Johnny Bright was brutally attacked on the field in a targeted, racially motivated hit. Despite national outrage and photographic evidence, no penalties were enforced, and the incident went down in history as a glaring example of the racial tensions gripping America in the 1950s. Join me as we explore Johnny Bright’s remarkable career, the aftermath of that fateful day, and how it reshaped the rules of college football. We’ll discuss how this moment symbolized the broader civil rights struggle and examine the long-lasting impact it had on sports and society. Don’t miss this powerful story of resilience in the face of injustice.

This week, What The Frock? gets a spiritual twist (and a new name!) as Rabbi Dave and Friar Rod transform into Guru Bhagwan Shree Daveneesh and Swami Sarcastananda for an astrology-packed episode. Join them as they dive headfirst into the mysterious world of Vedic astrology, while hilariously navigating everything from F-16s hiding from radar to election predictions based on the stars. Expect sharp humor, playful banter, and satirical takes on current events, including Kamala Harris’s campaign stumbles and some truly bizarre TikTok mishaps. Can astrology really predict the future? The gurus have spoken! Tune in for laughs, wild tangents, and their satirical take on the 2024 election chaos—“What the Vedics?” delivers it all.

In this episode of Dave Does History, we dive into the extraordinary life of Cassius Marcellus Clay, a 19th-century abolitionist, politician, and diplomat who stood up for his beliefs, even at the risk of his own life. Born on October 19, 1810, Clay’s fierce opposition to slavery shaped his political career in Kentucky, led him to start an anti-slavery newspaper, and formed the backbone of his relationship with Abraham Lincoln. We explore his military service during the Mexican-American War, his ambassadorship to Russia during the Civil War, and his role in the purchase of Alaska. We also touch on his later years, including his influence on Berea College and how his name lived on through boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Join us as we discuss the fascinating life and legacy of this often-overlooked figure in American history.

In this episode of Dave Does History, we explore the fascinating story behind Herman Melville’s Moby Dick—a novel that went from being a literary flop to one of the most celebrated works in Western literature. Host Dave takes us through Melville’s life, his inspiration from real-life events, and the book’s initial cold reception in England and America. We’ll dig into why Moby Dick struggled to find its audience when first published on October 18, 1851 and how it was rediscovered decades later, cementing its place as a cornerstone of the American literary canon. Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking look at why Moby Dick is considered one of the greatest novels ever written!

In this episode of Dave Does History, we explore Albert Einstein's dramatic escape from Nazi Germany on October 17, 1933. As one of the world’s most famous scientists, Einstein found himself a target of Nazi persecution due to his Jewish heritage and outspoken opposition to Hitler’s regime. We discuss his rise to prominence in Germany, his conflicts with the Nazi leadership, and the dangerous journey that led him to seek refuge in the United States. We also dive into the global reaction to his defection and foreshadow Einstein's critical role in the war effort against Nazi Germany. Tune in to hear how Einstein’s intellect and courage shaped history and left a lasting legacy.

In this episode of Dave Does History, we delve into the dramatic story of John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry—a pivotal moment that helped ignite the American Civil War. John Brown, a radical abolitionist, led a small group of men in an audacious attempt to capture a federal armory and spark a nationwide slave revolt. Though the raid failed, its aftermath rocked the nation, dividing the North and South even further. We explore Brown’s life, his fiery mission, the bloody events of the raid, and how it set the stage for the coming conflict. Was Brown a martyr or a madman? Tune in as we break down the raid that changed American history forever.

Today, we're diving into the captivating story of Mata Hari, a name synonymous with mystery, glamour, and betrayal. Born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, she rose to fame in Paris as an exotic dancer, dazzling audiences with her sensual performances. But as World War I unfolded, her life took a darker turn, entangling her in a world of espionage, double agents, and fatal accusations. Her eventual arrest and execution by the French in 1917 left a trail of unanswered questions. Was she truly a cunning spy, passing secrets to the Germans and French, or was she simply a victim of circumstance, scapegoated during a time of war and paranoia? Her story has fascinated historians and writers for decades, blending the allure of high society with the deadly stakes of wartime intrigue. Mata Hari's life was a paradox—one of seductive performances and whispered secrets, where the line between fact and fiction blurred, making her one of the most enigmatic figures in modern history.

In this episode, we dive into a pivotal moment in American history: the First Continental Congress's bold decision to denounce the British Parliament's Intolerable Acts on October 14, 1774. Join us as we discuss why the colonies came together in Philadelphia, the key figures involved, and how this historic meeting set the stage for revolution. We'll break down the Intolerable Acts, the Congress’s condemnation, and the lasting impact their actions had on the fight for American independence. It’s a story of courage, unity, and the birth of a revolutionary spirit. Don’t miss this essential chapter in the road to freedom! Tune in for a lively and insightful look at the moment America began to stand as one.

In this lively episode, Rabbi Dave and Friar Rod dive headfirst into the final stretch before Election Day, reflecting on the latest political absurdities, including early voting, vote-by-mail debates, and how California and Washington are handling the madness. They discuss the recent rise of political "October surprises" and weigh in on topics like media coverage, military involvement in Israel, and a viral Kansas professor's controversial remarks. Of course, it wouldn't be *What The Frock?* without some hilarious hunting mishaps and a comparison of this election season's moments to classic political blunders of the past. Along the way, the duo takes on free speech controversies, the increasing role of AI in politics, and why Tim Walz might want to take a few gun safety lessons. And as always, they bring their unique blend of humor, insight, and irreverence to the ongoing chaos of American politics. Catch all the banter, hot takes, and thought-provoking moments on this episode of *What The Frock?*—and don't

In this episode of Dave Does History, we unravel the mystery behind the death of Emperor Claudius and the dramatic rise of Nero to the Roman throne. Claudius, the unlikely emperor, overcame a lifetime of being underestimated to expand Rome’s empire and stabilize its government. But his reign ended under suspicious circumstances—was he poisoned by his ambitious wife Agrippina to secure Nero’s ascension? We dive into the intrigue, explore the theories behind Claudius’s death, and look at his legacy as a ruler. Plus, we foreshadow the reign of Nero, a young emperor whose rule would lead Rome down a path of tyranny and chaos. Tune in for a tale of political manipulation, murder, and power plays in ancient Rome. Available now on Spotify, iTunes, and wherever you get your podcasts!