http://www.MistakesWereMadePodcast.com
With sharp humor, detailed storytelling, and a healthy dose of sarcasm, they teach each other, and you, how humans have screwed up throughout the ages. Expect epic fails, ridiculous mishaps, and the funniest ways people have ever accidentally changed the world.Whether it’s military disasters, political catastrophes, failed inventions, or historical oddities like Dancing Mania and the Winter War, this podcast mixes comedy with real history for a laugh-and-learn experience. If history had bloopers, this is where you’d find them.

Keywords:
history podcast, funny history podcast, comedy history podcast, historical mistakes, historical blunders, epic fails in history, bizarre historical events, weird history stories, military disasters, political mistakes, human folly history, educational comedy podcast]]>enHistoryCopyright Robert Baconhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4832be9fab0b2ea0c663de6298f91b47.jpghttp://www.MistakesWereMadePodcast.comMon, 13 Oct 2025 20:44:33 +0000Robert BaconRobert Baconadamsandlerpleasestop@gmail.comHistory is full of terrible decisions, epic failures, and absurd moments. Mistakes Were Made is here to celebrate them. Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, Bobby Smithney, and Jenna O'Brien dive into the greatest blunders in history, from the Great...
With sharp humor, detailed storytelling, and a healthy dose of sarcasm, they teach each other, and you, how humans have screwed up throughout the ages. Expect epic fails, ridiculous mishaps, and the funniest ways people have ever accidentally changed the world.Whether it’s military disasters, political catastrophes, failed inventions, or historical oddities like Dancing Mania and the Winter War, this podcast mixes comedy with real history for a laugh-and-learn experience. If history had bloopers, this is where you’d find them.

Keywords:
history podcast, funny history podcast, comedy history podcast, historical mistakes, historical blunders, epic fails in history, bizarre historical events, weird history stories, military disasters, political mistakes, human folly history, educational comedy podcast]]>trueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-great-dublin-whiskey-fire--68122908
Comedians Robert Bacon and guest host Jenna O’Brien (filling in for Mike Kauffman) dive into this bizarre disaster where people didn’t die from fire, but from drinking the flaming whiskey. It’s a true story of chaos, comedy, and cautionary tales about Irish ingenuity gone sideways.

SOURCES

• The Irish Times (June 21, 1875): descriptions of people scooping whiskey with boots, the wholesale poisoning numbers The Irish TimesThe Pot Still Whiskey Blog
• Irish Examiner (June 21, 1875): “in literal torrents from the doors and windows” Wine Enthusiast
• The Pot Still blog: detailed local reporting, including the dog incident and hospital admissions The Pot Still Whiskey Blog
• Wikipedia: overview of the event, location, fatalities not from direct fire but poisoning Wikipedia
• Wine Enthusiast: recounting the burning river and manure tactics Wine Enthusiast
• Historic Mysteries: supplementary context on the chaos and the nature of the response 

Keywords: Dublin Whiskey Fire, 1875 Dublin Fire, Irish history podcast, comedy history podcast, whiskey disaster, Liberties Dublin, weird history, whiskey history, Ireland disasters, Mistakes Were Made podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68122908Mon, 13 Oct 2025 20:36:09 +0000Robert BaconIn 1875, Dublin was flooded with whiskey, literally. When a bonded warehouse in the Liberties district went up in flames, over 300,000 gallons of burning whiskey poured through the streets, turning one of Ireland’s poorest neighborhoods into a fiery...
Comedians Robert Bacon and guest host Jenna O’Brien (filling in for Mike Kauffman) dive into this bizarre disaster where people didn’t die from fire, but from drinking the flaming whiskey. It’s a true story of chaos, comedy, and cautionary tales about Irish ingenuity gone sideways.

SOURCES

• The Irish Times (June 21, 1875): descriptions of people scooping whiskey with boots, the wholesale poisoning numbers The Irish TimesThe Pot Still Whiskey Blog
• Irish Examiner (June 21, 1875): “in literal torrents from the doors and windows” Wine Enthusiast
• The Pot Still blog: detailed local reporting, including the dog incident and hospital admissions The Pot Still Whiskey Blog
• Wikipedia: overview of the event, location, fatalities not from direct fire but poisoning Wikipedia
• Wine Enthusiast: recounting the burning river and manure tactics Wine Enthusiast
• Historic Mysteries: supplementary context on the chaos and the nature of the response 

Keywords: Dublin Whiskey Fire, 1875 Dublin Fire, Irish history podcast, comedy history podcast, whiskey disaster, Liberties Dublin, weird history, whiskey history, Ireland disasters, Mistakes Were Made podcast.]]>35261875,comedy,disaster,disasters,dublin,fire,history,ireland,irish,liberties,made,mistakes,podcast,podcast.,weird,were,whiskeytrue32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lawn-chair-larry--66238613
EPISODE 31 - Lawnchair Larry
In this episode of Mistakes Were Made, we dive into the strange history of helium balloon flight attempts, including the infamous Lawnchair Larry and other balloon-powered adventurers. If you love weird history, historical mistakes, or funny stories about real-life stunts gone wrong, this podcast is for you. Subscribe to Mistakes Were Made for more episodes about history’s biggest blunders, epic fails, and bizarre moments.

MISTAKES WERE MADE PODCAST
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore some of history’s biggest blunders—mixing well-researched storytelling with a dose of humor. It’s history, but with more laughs and fewer homework assignments.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66238613Sat, 24 May 2025 00:46:16 +0000Robert BaconWe're back! After a 7-year break, Mistakes Were Made returns with a high-flying tale—literally. In this episode, Bacon tells Mike the bizarre history of people who tried to fly using helium balloons. From lawn chairs to church pews, it turns out some...
EPISODE 31 - Lawnchair Larry
In this episode of Mistakes Were Made, we dive into the strange history of helium balloon flight attempts, including the infamous Lawnchair Larry and other balloon-powered adventurers. If you love weird history, historical mistakes, or funny stories about real-life stunts gone wrong, this podcast is for you. Subscribe to Mistakes Were Made for more episodes about history’s biggest blunders, epic fails, and bizarre moments.

MISTAKES WERE MADE PODCAST
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore some of history’s biggest blunders—mixing well-researched storytelling with a dose of humor. It’s history, but with more laughs and fewer homework assignments.]]>4948chicago,comedy,history,improv,learning,pittsburgtrue31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mao-zedong--15593334Mao Zedong mango obsession, Cultural Revolution history, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, Chinese history comedy, Mao mango story, history gone wrong, propaganda stories, historical blunders, comedy podcast.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15593334Tue, 04 Sep 2018 06:00:08 +0000Robert BaconIn the late 1960s, Chairman Mao Zedong turned a simple piece of fruit into a symbol of blind devotion—and chaos. When Mao gifted crates of mangos to Chinese factory workers, the nation erupted into a frenzy of worship, complete with parades, wax mango...Mao Zedong mango obsession, Cultural Revolution history, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, Chinese history comedy, Mao mango story, history gone wrong, propaganda stories, historical blunders, comedy podcast.]]>3347china,history,mango,mao,mistakes,murder,zebongtrue30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-winter-war-sniper--15425598
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney recount the heroics, hardships, and human absurdity of the Winter War. They blend historical detail with humor, exploring how extreme cold, cunning strategy, and remarkable individuals created one of the most unique military conflicts of the 20th century.

Keywords:
Winter War podcast, Finland vs Russia 1939, Simo Häyhä sniper, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Finnish military history, World War II prelude, historical heroes podcast, military blunders and feats, funny history podcast.

More here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simo_H%C3%A4yh%C3%A4]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15425598Mon, 27 Aug 2018 05:00:06 +0000Robert Baconn 1939, the Soviet Union invaded Finland in a conflict known as the Winter War. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish forces put up a fierce resistance in freezing conditions. Among them was Simo Häyhä, nicknamed “The White Death,” a sniper...
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney recount the heroics, hardships, and human absurdity of the Winter War. They blend historical detail with humor, exploring how extreme cold, cunning strategy, and remarkable individuals created one of the most unique military conflicts of the 20th century.

Keywords:
Winter War podcast, Finland vs Russia 1939, Simo Häyhä sniper, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Finnish military history, World War II prelude, historical heroes podcast, military blunders and feats, funny history podcast.

More here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simo_H%C3%A4yh%C3%A4]]>13431939,finland,hayha,häyhä,mistakes,podcast,russia,simo,sniper,vs,war,winter,wwi,wwiitrue29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/franz-ferdinand--15420092
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney break down the Archduke’s eccentric personality, his controversial marriage, and the absurdly preventable circumstances of his assassination. Mixing historical insight with dark humor, they explore how one man’s death changed the world forever, and how human folly often sets the stage for monumental events.

Keywords:
Franz Ferdinand podcast, World War I history, Sarajevo assassination, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, historical blunders, causes of World War I, funny history podcast, human folly in history.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15420092Mon, 20 Aug 2018 05:00:05 +0000Robert BaconOn June 28, 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary was assassinated in Sarajevo—a single event that triggered the chain reaction leading to World War I. Ferdinand’s death exposed the tangled web of alliances, militarism, and nationalism in...
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney break down the Archduke’s eccentric personality, his controversial marriage, and the absurdly preventable circumstances of his assassination. Mixing historical insight with dark humor, they explore how one man’s death changed the world forever, and how human folly often sets the stage for monumental events.

Keywords:
Franz Ferdinand podcast, World War I history, Sarajevo assassination, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, historical blunders, causes of World War I, funny history podcast, human folly in history.]]>18921,8th,adults,comedy,explain,ferdinand,five,franz,funny,grade,history,i'm,learn,like,teacher,war,world,ww1,wwitrue28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/seward-s-folly-alaska-for-sale--15425280
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney dive into the political drama, public ridicule, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering that made the Alaska Purchase possible. Mixing history with humor, they highlight how one man’s vision—and a very cold gamble—turned into one of America’s smartest deals.

Keywords:
Alaska Purchase podcast, Seward’s Folly, William H. Seward history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, 19th century U.S. history, American land deals, political blunders and triumphs, funny history podcast, historical mistakes that worked out.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15425280Mon, 13 Aug 2018 05:00:06 +0000Robert BaconIn 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million—a deal widely mocked at the time as “Seward’s Folly.” Critics believed the U.S. had bought nothing but frozen tundra, ice, and bears. History, of course, proved them...
Comedians Robert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney dive into the political drama, public ridicule, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering that made the Alaska Purchase possible. Mixing history with humor, they highlight how one man’s vision—and a very cold gamble—turned into one of America’s smartest deals.

Keywords:
Alaska Purchase podcast, Seward’s Folly, William H. Seward history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, 19th century U.S. history, American land deals, political blunders and triumphs, funny history podcast, historical mistakes that worked out.]]>2260alaska,bears,folly,h,h.,ice,of,podcast,purchase,russia,secretary,seward,seward's,seward’s,state,williamtrue27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-berlin-wall--15425970
The hosts explore the Wall’s construction, its impact on everyday life, daring escapes, and the increasingly bizarre lengths people went to in order to cross it. From tightrope walkers and homemade hot-air balloons to tunnels dug by hand, the Berlin Wall became a theater of human courage and folly—all set against a backdrop of Cold War tension and bureaucratic blunders.It’s a story of walls, mistakes, and monumental human absurdity—delivered with humor, insight, and the signature style of Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Berlin Wall podcast, Cold War history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, East Germany history, Berlin Wall escapes, historical blunders, 20th century history, human ingenuity in history, funny history podcast, political mistakes.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15425970Sun, 05 Aug 2018 19:33:20 +0000Robert BaconRobert Bacon, Mike Kauffman, and Bobby Smithney tackle one of the 20th century’s most infamous symbols: the Berlin Wall. Erected in 1961, the Wall didn’t just divide a city—it divided families, friends, and an entire ideology. Built almost overnight...
The hosts explore the Wall’s construction, its impact on everyday life, daring escapes, and the increasingly bizarre lengths people went to in order to cross it. From tightrope walkers and homemade hot-air balloons to tunnels dug by hand, the Berlin Wall became a theater of human courage and folly—all set against a backdrop of Cold War tension and bureaucratic blunders.It’s a story of walls, mistakes, and monumental human absurdity—delivered with humor, insight, and the signature style of Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Berlin Wall podcast, Cold War history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, East Germany history, Berlin Wall escapes, historical blunders, 20th century history, human ingenuity in history, funny history podcast, political mistakes.]]>2352berlin,cold,comedy,communism,east,germany,history,made,mistakes,podcast,red,russia,scare,usa,wall,war,weretrue26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-halifax-disaster--14518278
The hosts break down the tragic events, the human errors, and the series of mistakes that led to the catastrophic explosion, mixing detailed historical storytelling with dark humor and absurdity. From eyewitness accounts to the sheer scale of destruction, this episode captures both the horror and the bizarre circumstances surrounding the Halifax Disaster.It’s a story of misjudgment, miscommunication, and human folly—now with a fresh voice—on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Halifax Disaster podcast, 1917 Halifax explosion, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, deadliest maritime disasters, Nova Scotia history, historical accidents podcast, funny history stories, ship collision disasters, World War I history, weird history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2018/03/20/25--the-halifax-disasterTue, 20 Mar 2018 02:30:00 +0000Robert BaconFor the first time, Mistakes Were Made welcomes a new co-host: Bobby Smithney joins Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman as they dive into one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history. On December 6, 1917, the bustling harbor of Halifax, Nova Scotia,...
The hosts break down the tragic events, the human errors, and the series of mistakes that led to the catastrophic explosion, mixing detailed historical storytelling with dark humor and absurdity. From eyewitness accounts to the sheer scale of destruction, this episode captures both the horror and the bizarre circumstances surrounding the Halifax Disaster.It’s a story of misjudgment, miscommunication, and human folly—now with a fresh voice—on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Halifax Disaster podcast, 1917 Halifax explosion, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, deadliest maritime disasters, Nova Scotia history, historical accidents podcast, funny history stories, ship collision disasters, World War I history, weird history podcast.]]>22301917,accidents,bobby smithney,comedy,deadliest,disaster,disasters,explosion,halifax,historical,history,made,maritime,mistakes,nova,podcast,scotia,weretrue25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-history-of-mooning--14518292
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore the roots of mooning as a political and social statement, from rebellious Roman citizens to later historical examples. Along the way, they reveal how defiance, satire, and sheer absurdity have made mooning a timeless human gesture—sometimes hilarious, sometimes deadly, and always memorable.It’s history, humor, and human cheekiness rolled into one episode of Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
history of mooning podcast, Caligula Roman Empire, ancient Rome funny history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, historical rebellion stories, funny ancient history, political satire history, weird history stories, history of insults, human absurdity in history.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/08/09/episode-24--the-history-of-mooningWed, 09 Aug 2017 00:30:00 +0000Robert BaconThe art of showing one’s rear end has a surprisingly long and hilarious history—and it might just date back to ancient Rome. In 66 CE, tensions flared between Romans and Jews, but Emperor Caligula had bigger problems: spending money faster than the...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore the roots of mooning as a political and social statement, from rebellious Roman citizens to later historical examples. Along the way, they reveal how defiance, satire, and sheer absurdity have made mooning a timeless human gesture—sometimes hilarious, sometimes deadly, and always memorable.It’s history, humor, and human cheekiness rolled into one episode of Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
history of mooning podcast, Caligula Roman Empire, ancient Rome funny history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, historical rebellion stories, funny ancient history, political satire history, weird history stories, history of insults, human absurdity in history.]]>1775butt,history,mistakes,mooning,showtrue24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-leopard-hat-dictator-mobutu-sese-seko--14518284
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the bizarre life of Mobutu, exploring how his obsession with style, personality cults, and kleptocracy made him infamous worldwide. From leopard-skin hats and gold-plated everything to corruption so blatant it became legendary, this episode is a hilarious yet cautionary tale of absolute power and human folly.It’s a story of style, scandal, and stupidity—perfectly suited for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Mobutu Sese Seko podcast, Leopard Hat Dictator, Zaire history, Congo history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, African dictators history, weird history stories, kleptocracy history, 20th century dictators, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/07/26/episode-23--mobutu-sese-seko-the-leopard-hat-dictatorWed, 26 Jul 2017 04:30:00 +0000Robert BaconMobutu Sese Seko, the flamboyant and corrupt ruler of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), earned his nickname the “Leopard Hat Dictator” for his ostentatious fashion and absolute power. Rising from a military officer to...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the bizarre life of Mobutu, exploring how his obsession with style, personality cults, and kleptocracy made him infamous worldwide. From leopard-skin hats and gold-plated everything to corruption so blatant it became legendary, this episode is a hilarious yet cautionary tale of absolute power and human folly.It’s a story of style, scandal, and stupidity—perfectly suited for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Mobutu Sese Seko podcast, Leopard Hat Dictator, Zaire history, Congo history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, African dictators history, weird history stories, kleptocracy history, 20th century dictators, funny history podcast.]]>2738african,comedy,congo,democratic,dictator,hat,history,leopard,made,mistakes,mobutu,mobutu sese seko,podcast,republic,seko,sese,were,zairetrue23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-turkmenistan-dictator-saparmurat-niyazov--14518279
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore Niyazov’s rise to power, from a traumatized child to the president-for-life of Turkmenistan, who renamed months after himself, built golden statues, and created a personality cult so extreme it defies belief. It’s a story of loss, power, and human absurdity—the perfect fit for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Saparmurat Niyazov podcast, Turkmenistan history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, eccentric dictators, personality cult history, Soviet-era leaders, weird history stories, authoritarian rulers, history of Turkmenistan, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/07/18/episode-22--saparmurat-niyazov-the-turkmenistan-dictatorTue, 18 Jul 2017 01:00:00 +0000Robert BaconSaparmurat Niyazov, born in 1940 in the Soviet Republic of Turkmenistan, survived a childhood straight out of a tragedy. After losing his family in an earthquake and emerging from the rubble after eight days, he was sent to a harsh Soviet orphanage in...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore Niyazov’s rise to power, from a traumatized child to the president-for-life of Turkmenistan, who renamed months after himself, built golden statues, and created a personality cult so extreme it defies belief. It’s a story of loss, power, and human absurdity—the perfect fit for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Saparmurat Niyazov podcast, Turkmenistan history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, eccentric dictators, personality cult history, Soviet-era leaders, weird history stories, authoritarian rulers, history of Turkmenistan, funny history podcast.]]>1896comedy,cult,dictators,eccentric,history,leaders,made,mistakes,niyazov,personality,podcast,saparmurat,saparmurat niyazov,soviet-era,stories,turkmenistan,weird,weretrue22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/german-sub-poop-party--14518282
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the unbelievable story of a top-secret U-boat undone not by enemy fire, but by human error and a malfunctioning latrine. From engineering blunders to desperate attempts to save the sub, it’s a darkly funny tale of World War II’s oddest naval catastrophe—where the real enemy might just have been bathroom plumbing.It’s history, hygiene, and hilarity all rolled into one unforgettable Mistakes Were Made episode.

Keywords:
German submarine U-1206 podcast, World War II naval disasters, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, WWII funny stories, U-boat mishaps, submarine accidents history, bizarre military disasters, weird history stories, historical blunders podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/07/12/episode-21--german-sub-poop-partyWed, 12 Jul 2017 03:30:00 +0000Robert BaconOn April 6, 1945, the German U-1206 submarine set sail from Kristiansand, Norway, on a mission that would quickly go down in history as a catastrophic and hilariously tragic misadventure. This was no ordinary naval mishap—an accident with the sub’s...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the unbelievable story of a top-secret U-boat undone not by enemy fire, but by human error and a malfunctioning latrine. From engineering blunders to desperate attempts to save the sub, it’s a darkly funny tale of World War II’s oddest naval catastrophe—where the real enemy might just have been bathroom plumbing.It’s history, hygiene, and hilarity all rolled into one unforgettable Mistakes Were Made episode.

Keywords:
German submarine U-1206 podcast, World War II naval disasters, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, WWII funny stories, U-boat mishaps, submarine accidents history, bizarre military disasters, weird history stories, historical blunders podcast.]]>1345comedy,disasters,funny,german,history,ii,made,mistakes,naval,podcast,submarine,u-1206,u-boat,war,were,world,ww2,wwiitrue21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-romanian-dictator-nicolae-ceausescu--14518281
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman trace the bizarre, brutal, and occasionally absurd life of Ceaușescu, exploring how a village kid became a man whose policies led to immense suffering, eccentric displays of power, and a dramatic downfall that the world couldn’t ignore.It’s a story of ambition, ideology, and human folly—perfectly suited for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Nicolae Ceaușescu podcast, Romanian dictator history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, 20th century dictators, weird history stories, Romanian history podcast, communist leaders history, human folly in history, history of Romania, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/06/27/episode-20--nicolae-ceausescu-the-romanian-dictatorTue, 27 Jun 2017 17:00:00 +0000Robert BaconNicolae Ceaușescu was born into a poor Romanian peasant family in 1918, and by the end of his life, he was one of the most notorious dictators of the 20th century. From escaping an abusive father to becoming an apprentice shoemaker, young Nicolae’s...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman trace the bizarre, brutal, and occasionally absurd life of Ceaușescu, exploring how a village kid became a man whose policies led to immense suffering, eccentric displays of power, and a dramatic downfall that the world couldn’t ignore.It’s a story of ambition, ideology, and human folly—perfectly suited for Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Nicolae Ceaușescu podcast, Romanian dictator history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, 20th century dictators, weird history stories, Romanian history podcast, communist leaders history, human folly in history, history of Romania, funny history podcast.]]>189420th,ceaușescu,century,comedy,communist,dictator,dictators,history,leaders,made,mistakes,nicolae,nicolae ceausescu,podcast,romania,romanian,stories,weird,weretrue20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-great-molasses-flood-in-boston--14518280
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into this bizarre catastrophe, exploring how a poorly constructed tank, negligence, and a community that underestimated sticky liquids led to one of history’s most absurd—and deadly—floods. From eyewitness accounts of people and animals trapped in syrup to the cleanup efforts that took weeks, this episode is equal parts tragedy and dark comedy.It’s a story of engineering failure, human error, and one of the most unexpectedly hilarious disasters you’ll ever hear about on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Great Molasses Flood podcast, Boston disasters history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, sticky disasters, 1919 Boston flood, weird history stories, engineering failures in history, historical accidents podcast, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/06/13/episode-19--the-great-molasses-flood-in-bostonTue, 13 Jun 2017 05:00:00 +0000Robert BaconIn 1919, Boston experienced one of the strangest disasters in American history: a massive wave of molasses barreling through the streets of the North End. When a 50-foot-tall storage tank burst, over 2 million gallons of sticky syrup surged at 35...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into this bizarre catastrophe, exploring how a poorly constructed tank, negligence, and a community that underestimated sticky liquids led to one of history’s most absurd—and deadly—floods. From eyewitness accounts of people and animals trapped in syrup to the cleanup efforts that took weeks, this episode is equal parts tragedy and dark comedy.It’s a story of engineering failure, human error, and one of the most unexpectedly hilarious disasters you’ll ever hear about on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Great Molasses Flood podcast, Boston disasters history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, sticky disasters, 1919 Boston flood, weird history stories, engineering failures in history, historical accidents podcast, funny history podcast.]]>16901919,boston,comedy,disasters,flood,great,history,made,massachusetts,mistakes,molasses,podcast,sticky,stories,weird,weretrue19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dancing-mania--14518283
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the strange, often deadly phenomenon that baffled doctors and terrified communities. Was it mass hysteria, a mysterious illness, or just medieval people really, really loving dance? From Germany to the Low Countries, this episode explores the history, the theories, and the chaos of Europe’s most perplexing dance parties.It’s history, hilarity, and human weirdness—because on Mistakes Were Made, even the plague comes with a punchline.

Keywords:
Dancing Mania podcast, medieval Europe strange history, mass hysteria history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird history stories, dancing epidemic, bizarre medieval events, strange epidemics, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/06/06/episode-18--dancing-maniaTue, 06 Jun 2017 05:00:00 +0000Robert BaconMedieval Europe wasn’t exactly a party paradise—famine, plague, and political chaos made life miserable for most people. So why, then, did groups of people suddenly start dancing uncontrollably in the streets? Known as Dancing Mania, these bizarre...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the strange, often deadly phenomenon that baffled doctors and terrified communities. Was it mass hysteria, a mysterious illness, or just medieval people really, really loving dance? From Germany to the Low Countries, this episode explores the history, the theories, and the chaos of Europe’s most perplexing dance parties.It’s history, hilarity, and human weirdness—because on Mistakes Were Made, even the plague comes with a punchline.

Keywords:
Dancing Mania podcast, medieval Europe strange history, mass hysteria history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird history stories, dancing epidemic, bizarre medieval events, strange epidemics, funny history podcast.]]>1225bizarre,comedy,dancing,epidemic,europe,history,hysteria,made,mania,mass,medieval,middle ages,mistakes,podcast,stories,strange,weird,weretrue18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/immortal-combat--14518285
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore the weird, wild, and often deadly attempts to cheat death. Some tried magic, others science, and a few just made a lot of questionable life choices, but all reveal the same universal truth: humans have always been terrified of dying. It’s part philosophy, part absurd comedy, and all Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
immortality history podcast, humans trying to live forever, quest for eternal life, alchemy and longevity, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, historical experiments for immortality, weird history stories, attempts to cheat death, famous immortality seekers, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/05/30/episode-17--immortal-combatTue, 30 May 2017 05:00:00 +0000Robert BaconSince the dawn of recorded history, humans have been obsessed with one question: how do we live forever? From alchemists chasing the elusive elixir of life to eccentric rulers trying bizarre experiments to extend their years, history is full of people...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman explore the weird, wild, and often deadly attempts to cheat death. Some tried magic, others science, and a few just made a lot of questionable life choices, but all reveal the same universal truth: humans have always been terrified of dying. It’s part philosophy, part absurd comedy, and all Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
immortality history podcast, humans trying to live forever, quest for eternal life, alchemy and longevity, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, historical experiments for immortality, weird history stories, attempts to cheat death, famous immortality seekers, funny history podcast.]]>2075alchemy,and,combat,eternal,for,forever,history,humans,immortal,immortality,kombat,life,live,longevity,mistakes,podcast,qin shi huang,quest,to,tryingtrue17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/horrible-compromise--14518286
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman break down the convoluted, often ridiculous political deals that tried—and failed—to prevent civil war. With standoffs, backroom negotiations, and compromises so complicated they’d make a modern lawyer weep, this episode reveals how human stubbornness and bad politics set the stage for the deadliest conflict in U.S. history.It’s history, hilarity, and heartbreak—all rolled into one Mistakes Were Made special.

Keywords:
American Civil War podcast, Missouri Compromise, Compromise of 1850, slavery history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, U.S. history funny, historical compromises, causes of Civil War, pre-Civil War history, weird history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/05/23/episode-16--horrible-compromiseTue, 23 May 2017 15:30:00 +0000Robert BaconBefore the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter, America tried a different tactic: compromise. From the Missouri Compromise to the Compromise of 1850, lawmakers desperately tried to keep the Union together: slavery in, slavery out, states’ rights,...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman break down the convoluted, often ridiculous political deals that tried—and failed—to prevent civil war. With standoffs, backroom negotiations, and compromises so complicated they’d make a modern lawyer weep, this episode reveals how human stubbornness and bad politics set the stage for the deadliest conflict in U.S. history.It’s history, hilarity, and heartbreak—all rolled into one Mistakes Were Made special.

Keywords:
American Civil War podcast, Missouri Compromise, Compromise of 1850, slavery history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, U.S. history funny, historical compromises, causes of Civil War, pre-Civil War history, weird history podcast.]]>17621850,american,civil,comedy,compromise,democrat,free,history,made,missouri,missouri compromise,mistakes,of,podcast,republican,slavery,slaves,u.s.,war,weretrue16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/prohibition--14518288
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman pour one out for the bizarre era when Congress thought banning beer would make people better citizens. From dry states accidentally mailing liquor across borders, to gangsters getting rich off bathtub gin, this episode explores how good intentions mixed with terrible execution turned into one of the biggest national hangovers in U.S. history.It’s a sobering look at how banning fun only makes people get sneakier—served straight up with laughs on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Prohibition podcast, American Prohibition history, Billy Sunday quote, Noble Experiment, alcohol ban history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, bootleggers history, 1920s crime history, Prohibition funny history, weird history podcast, alcohol smuggling history.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/05/16/episode-15--prohibitionTue, 16 May 2017 11:00:00 +0000Robert Bacon“The reign of tears is over,” promised Reverend Billy Sunday when America banned booze. Spoiler: it was not over. In fact, Prohibition turned the entire country into one big underground cocktail party. Between 1920 and 1933, the so-called “Noble...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman pour one out for the bizarre era when Congress thought banning beer would make people better citizens. From dry states accidentally mailing liquor across borders, to gangsters getting rich off bathtub gin, this episode explores how good intentions mixed with terrible execution turned into one of the biggest national hangovers in U.S. history.It’s a sobering look at how banning fun only makes people get sneakier—served straight up with laughs on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Prohibition podcast, American Prohibition history, Billy Sunday quote, Noble Experiment, alcohol ban history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, bootleggers history, 1920s crime history, Prohibition funny history, weird history podcast, alcohol smuggling history.]]>1983alcohol,american,ban,billy,bootleggers,comedy,dumb,experiment,history,made,mistakes,noble,podcast,prohibition,quote,stupid,sunday,weretrue15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vikings-discover-america--14518291
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the chaotic true story of how the Vikings became the first Europeans to “discover” America—and how their legendary voyage ended in disaster. From miscommunication with the Indigenous peoples to a colonization plan that lasted about as long as a Nordic summer, this episode explores the mixture of bravery, stupidity, and bad timing that defined the Viking Age.It’s history’s shortest empire, fueled by mead, ego, and Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Vikings discovered America podcast, Leif Erikson history, Vinland Vikings, Norse exploration, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Viking history funny, Norse America, first Europeans in America, Viking colonization, historical blunders, weird history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/05/09/episode-14--vikings-discover-americaTue, 09 May 2017 11:00:00 +0000Robert BaconCenturies before Columbus, a group of adventurous Vikings actually made it to North America… and immediately started killing people and complaining about the food. Around the year 1000, Leif Erikson and his band of Norse explorers landed in what’s now...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the chaotic true story of how the Vikings became the first Europeans to “discover” America—and how their legendary voyage ended in disaster. From miscommunication with the Indigenous peoples to a colonization plan that lasted about as long as a Nordic summer, this episode explores the mixture of bravery, stupidity, and bad timing that defined the Viking Age.It’s history’s shortest empire, fueled by mead, ego, and Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Vikings discovered America podcast, Leif Erikson history, Vinland Vikings, Norse exploration, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, Viking history funny, Norse America, first Europeans in America, Viking colonization, historical blunders, weird history podcast.]]>1598america,canada,comedy,discovered,discovery,erikson,exploration,history,iceland,leif,made,mistakes,norse,north america,podcast,viking,vikings,vinland,weretrue14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tulip-mania--14518287
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the absurdity of 17th-century Holland’s tulip-fueled frenzy: how it started, how it spiraled out of control, and how it all came crashing down when people realized you can’t actually eat your savings. From rare bulbs traded like Bitcoin to deals sealed in taverns over too much beer, this is the hilarious story of the market crash that bloomed before capitalism even knew what it was.It’s a colorful blend of history, hysteria, and human stupidity—just another day on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Tulip Mania podcast, Dutch Golden Age, economic bubble history, first stock market crash, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird history economics, tulip bubble explained, 17th century Netherlands, financial disasters in history, funny history podcast.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/05/02/episode-13--tulip-maniaTue, 02 May 2017 11:00:00 +0000Robert BaconIn the 1630s, the Dutch Republic went completely insane for flowers. Tulip Mania was the world’s first recorded economic bubble, when a single tulip bulb could cost more than a house, fortunes were made and lost faster than you can say “floral...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the absurdity of 17th-century Holland’s tulip-fueled frenzy: how it started, how it spiraled out of control, and how it all came crashing down when people realized you can’t actually eat your savings. From rare bulbs traded like Bitcoin to deals sealed in taverns over too much beer, this is the hilarious story of the market crash that bloomed before capitalism even knew what it was.It’s a colorful blend of history, hysteria, and human stupidity—just another day on Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Tulip Mania podcast, Dutch Golden Age, economic bubble history, first stock market crash, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird history economics, tulip bubble explained, 17th century Netherlands, financial disasters in history, funny history podcast.]]>1839age,amsterdam,bubble,crash,dutch,economic,europe,first,golden,history,mania,market,mistakes,mistakes in history,netherlands,podcast,stock,tulip,tulip mania,weretrue13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trading-places-muhammad-bin-tughlaq--14518290
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the life of this ambitious overachiever who somehow managed to turn genius-level ideas into catastrophic failures. From elephant parades gone wrong to conspiracy theories about collapsing royal stages, it’s a story of vision, ego, and what happens when the smartest guy in the room refuses to read the room.

It’s one part political satire, one part history lesson, and 100% Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Muhammad bin Tughlaq podcast, Delhi Sultanate history, Indian history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird rulers in history, mad kings and sultans, history gone wrong, medieval India, historical blunders, funny history stories.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/04/25/episode-12--trading-placesTue, 25 Apr 2017 12:00:00 +0000Robert BaconIn the 14th century, Muhammad bin Tughlaq ruled one of the largest empires in India’s history—and possibly made more questionable decisions per minute than any leader before or since. Known as a brilliant scholar, poet, and mathematician, Tughlaq also...
Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the life of this ambitious overachiever who somehow managed to turn genius-level ideas into catastrophic failures. From elephant parades gone wrong to conspiracy theories about collapsing royal stages, it’s a story of vision, ego, and what happens when the smartest guy in the room refuses to read the room.

It’s one part political satire, one part history lesson, and 100% Mistakes Were Made.

Keywords:
Muhammad bin Tughlaq podcast, Delhi Sultanate history, Indian history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, weird rulers in history, mad kings and sultans, history gone wrong, medieval India, historical blunders, funny history stories.]]>1580bin,comedy,delhi,history,in,indian,made,medicine,mistakes,muhammad,muhammad bin tughlaq,podcast,religion,rulers,sultan,sultanate,tughlaq,weird,weretrue12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/warren-g-harding-s-cabinet-of-idiots--14518303
In this episode, comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman unpack the hilarious—and horrifying—story of how Harding’s cabinet became a carnival of incompetence. From the Teapot Dome scandal (the OG government oil grift) to secret affairs and backroom bribes, this is the story of what happens when you put your drinking buddies in charge of the country. Spoiler: it does not end well.It’s a political roast from the 1920s that proves one thing—America’s been electing questionable dudes since day one.

Keywords:
Warren G. Harding podcast, Teapot Dome scandal, Warren Harding cabinet, Ohio Gang history, presidential scandals, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, corrupt presidents, American history podcast, funniest history podcast, political corruption history, U.S. history disasters.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/04/18/episode-11--warren-g-hardings-cabinet-of-idiotsTue, 18 Apr 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconWhen historians call Warren G. Harding one of America’s worst presidents, they’re not exaggerating—they’re just being polite. Harding’s administration in the 1920s was less a government and more a frat house with oil money. His so-called “Ohio Gang”...
In this episode, comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman unpack the hilarious—and horrifying—story of how Harding’s cabinet became a carnival of incompetence. From the Teapot Dome scandal (the OG government oil grift) to secret affairs and backroom bribes, this is the story of what happens when you put your drinking buddies in charge of the country. Spoiler: it does not end well.It’s a political roast from the 1920s that proves one thing—America’s been electing questionable dudes since day one.

Keywords:
Warren G. Harding podcast, Teapot Dome scandal, Warren Harding cabinet, Ohio Gang history, presidential scandals, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, corrupt presidents, American history podcast, funniest history podcast, political corruption history, U.S. history disasters.]]>2159cabinet,dome,environment,environmentalism,g.,gang,harding,history,made,mistakes,ohio,podcast,politics,presidential,scandal,scandals,teapot,warren,warren g harding,weretrue11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parachute-invention--14518302
On February 1912 Franz announced to the press that he had received permission to conduct a test of one of his designs on a dummy from the Eiffel Tower. To him this was the perfect time to actually test his invention.

On Sunday, February 4, at 7:00 a.m., he arrived at the tower by car with two friends to a crowd of anxious onlookers, who were cordoned off outside the drop-zone. He was already wearing his parachute suit. A suit that did not restrict the wearer's movements when the parachute was packed, and the method of deploying the parachute as being as simple as extending the arms out to form a cross with the body. Once extended, the outfit resembled "a sort of cloak fitted with a vast hood of silk". The weather was cold, with temperatures below 32 °F and there was a stiff breeze blowing. (More on podcast)

 ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/04/11/episode-10--the-parachuteTue, 11 Apr 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconFranz Reichelt dreamt of designing the first wearable parachute. The only problem was he wasn't good at it and he liked to test things himself.  On February 1912 Franz announced to the press that he had received permission to conduct a test of one of...
On February 1912 Franz announced to the press that he had received permission to conduct a test of one of his designs on a dummy from the Eiffel Tower. To him this was the perfect time to actually test his invention.

On Sunday, February 4, at 7:00 a.m., he arrived at the tower by car with two friends to a crowd of anxious onlookers, who were cordoned off outside the drop-zone. He was already wearing his parachute suit. A suit that did not restrict the wearer's movements when the parachute was packed, and the method of deploying the parachute as being as simple as extending the arms out to form a cross with the body. Once extended, the outfit resembled "a sort of cloak fitted with a vast hood of silk". The weather was cold, with temperatures below 32 °F and there was a stiff breeze blowing. (More on podcast)

 ]]>2317france,franz reichelt,leonardo da vinci,parachute,testingtrue10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-chicago-cubs-billy-goat-curse--14518293
He would also sneak his goat, Murphy, into unusual locations in order to try and gain publicity for his bar and in 1945 he was presented with the perfect opportunity. The Cubs were gearing up to face the Detroit Tigers in Game Four of the World Series. Many Cubs fans believed 1945 would be their year. They’d come into Game Four with a 2-1 lead over the Tigers, and only needed two more wins to claim the title.

Billy was a long-time Cubs fan and on October 6, 1945, he bought two tickets worth $7.20 for game 4 of the world series. One of the tickets was for him; the other one was for his goat who was wearing a sign stating "We Got Detroit's Goat". (More on the podcast)]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/04/04/episode-9--the-chicago-cubs-billy-goat-curseTue, 04 Apr 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconBilly was a natural stunt master. In 1944 The Republican Convention came to town in and he posted a sign saying, "No Republicans allowed." This caused the tavern to be packed with Republicans demanding to be served. He would also sneak his goat,...
He would also sneak his goat, Murphy, into unusual locations in order to try and gain publicity for his bar and in 1945 he was presented with the perfect opportunity. The Cubs were gearing up to face the Detroit Tigers in Game Four of the World Series. Many Cubs fans believed 1945 would be their year. They’d come into Game Four with a 2-1 lead over the Tigers, and only needed two more wins to claim the title.

Billy was a long-time Cubs fan and on October 6, 1945, he bought two tickets worth $7.20 for game 4 of the world series. One of the tickets was for him; the other one was for his goat who was wearing a sign stating "We Got Detroit's Goat". (More on the podcast)]]>1985billy,chicago cubs,curse,curses,world seriestrue9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-luckiest-idiot-timothy-dexter--14518296
In this episode, comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the absurd true story of the man who proved that sometimes being a complete idiot is the ultimate life hack. From faking his own funeral to building a garden filled with statues of famous men—and one of himself labeled “The Greatest Philosopher in the Western World”—Timothy Dexter lived like a man immune to failure and allergic to humility.It’s one of the strangest success stories ever told: part historical farce, part capitalist fever dream, and 100% Mistakes Were Made.

Story by: Zachary Crockett at priceonomics.com

Timothy Dexter was born in Malden, Mass., Jan. 22, 1747. From his birth, he fancied himself a legend -- he later wrote “I was to be one grat [sic] man,”


Keywords:
Timothy Dexter podcast, history of Timothy Dexter, weird history podcast, funniest historical figures, luckiest man in history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, American history weirdos, self-made millionaire history, dumb luck success stories, bizarre historical figures, failed geniuses, colonial America comedy.
]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/03/28/episode-8--timothy-dexter-the-luckiest-idiotTue, 28 Mar 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconMeet Timothy Dexter, the uneducated New England businessman who somehow became one of the richest men in early America… entirely by accident. Born in 1747 with no formal education, Dexter stumbled his way into fortune after fortune through a series of...
In this episode, comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dive into the absurd true story of the man who proved that sometimes being a complete idiot is the ultimate life hack. From faking his own funeral to building a garden filled with statues of famous men—and one of himself labeled “The Greatest Philosopher in the Western World”—Timothy Dexter lived like a man immune to failure and allergic to humility.It’s one of the strangest success stories ever told: part historical farce, part capitalist fever dream, and 100% Mistakes Were Made.

Story by: Zachary Crockett at priceonomics.com

Timothy Dexter was born in Malden, Mass., Jan. 22, 1747. From his birth, he fancied himself a legend -- he later wrote “I was to be one grat [sic] man,”


Keywords:
Timothy Dexter podcast, history of Timothy Dexter, weird history podcast, funniest historical figures, luckiest man in history, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, American history weirdos, self-made millionaire history, dumb luck success stories, bizarre historical figures, failed geniuses, colonial America comedy.
]]>31061700's,dexter,dumb,dumbest man in history,figures,funniest,historical,history,idiot,in,luckiest,lucky,man,mistakes,of,podcast,timothy,timothy dexter,weirdtrue8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-flying-car--14518298http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/03/21/episode-7--the-flying-carTue, 21 Mar 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconThey quickly got to work on their flying vehicle and in just two years they had two prototypes and three more under construction. Well you obviously can’t work that quick by engineering something from the ground up. They instead took two already...2359ave mizar,flying car,ford pinto,inventions that killed their i,mistaketrue7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-napoleon-of-the-west--14518294http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/03/14/episode-6--the-napoleon-of-the-westTue, 14 Mar 2017 10:00:00 +0000Robert BaconSanta Anna used his military and political influences to rise to the highest ranking general in the Mexican Army and In 1833 Santa Anna was overwhelmingly elected President of Mexico. In the early years of Mexico the country was in extreme turmoil....2543antonio de padua maría severin,mexico,mistakes in history,president,santa annatrue6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leaning-tower-of-pisa--14518297
On August 9th, 1173 construction began on the bell tower. A foundation for the tower was built of a 3 foot deep mixture of clay. After 5 years of construction they had completed three out of eight floors of the structure, but quickly noticed a problem. It turned out the clay that they used for the foundation wasn’t nearly as strong as they thought and wasn’t able to keep the tower upright. Even everyday citizens could see that the tower had already began to lean. This wasn’t new in Pisa as the river city has soft grounds and a number of other structures have exhibited this same behavior. (More on the podcast)

 ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/03/07/episode-5--leaning-towerTue, 07 Mar 2017 13:05:00 +0000Robert BaconIn the 1st millennium (or the 1000’s or the 11th century) the city of Pisa was becoming an important Italian seaport. Its fame and power grew gradually as the people of Pisa were involved in various military conflicts and trade agreements. In 1063 the...
On August 9th, 1173 construction began on the bell tower. A foundation for the tower was built of a 3 foot deep mixture of clay. After 5 years of construction they had completed three out of eight floors of the structure, but quickly noticed a problem. It turned out the clay that they used for the foundation wasn’t nearly as strong as they thought and wasn’t able to keep the tower upright. Even everyday citizens could see that the tower had already began to lean. This wasn’t new in Pisa as the river city has soft grounds and a number of other structures have exhibited this same behavior. (More on the podcast)

 ]]>20607 wonders of the world,italy,leaning tower of pisa,mistakes,pisatrue5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/beard-history--14518295
Keywords:
history of beards, shaving history, ancient Egypt beards, Mesopotamian grooming, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, beard facts, ancient shaving tools, human grooming history.]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/02/28/episode-4--beard-historyTue, 28 Feb 2017 11:00:00 +0000Robert BaconFrom ancient Egyptians weaving gold into their beards to Mesopotamians curling theirs like fashion icons, humanity’s relationship with facial hair has always been… complicated. Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman take a hilarious deep dive into...
Keywords:
history of beards, shaving history, ancient Egypt beards, Mesopotamian grooming, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, comedy history podcast, beard facts, ancient shaving tools, human grooming history.]]>1821ancient,beard history,beards,comedy,egypt,facial hair,grooming,history,in,istory,made,mesopotamian,mistakes,of,podcast,shaving,time,weird,weretrue4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chicago-l-train--14518299
"In the late 19th century Chicago was the fastest-growing city in the country. The downtown became increasingly congested with horses, carts, and carriages. Residents realized that they needed a better, more organized form of transportation in the city. On June 6th, 1892 a steam locomotive pulling four wooden coaches on a raised elevated platform departed the 39th Street station traveled 3.6 miles and arrived at the Congress Street Terminal 14 minutes later. It was the first ever Chicago L train journey. The train was an instant hit with locals. A reporter for the Chicago Tribune noted one of the "L"'s most distinguishing features was its usefulness to all citizens of the city. He pointed out the variation of the passengers, from members of "the lunch pail crowd" to passengers "resembling gentlemen."" (more on the podcast)
 ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/02/21/episode-3--chicago-l-trainTue, 21 Feb 2017 11:00:00 +0000Robert BaconThe Chicago L has had a pretty good safety record throughout history, but when they make a mistake it's a big one. This week we cover from the very first derailment to the O'hare blue line crash. "In the late 19th century Chicago was the...
"In the late 19th century Chicago was the fastest-growing city in the country. The downtown became increasingly congested with horses, carts, and carriages. Residents realized that they needed a better, more organized form of transportation in the city. On June 6th, 1892 a steam locomotive pulling four wooden coaches on a raised elevated platform departed the 39th Street station traveled 3.6 miles and arrived at the Congress Street Terminal 14 minutes later. It was the first ever Chicago L train journey. The train was an instant hit with locals. A reporter for the Chicago Tribune noted one of the "L"'s most distinguishing features was its usefulness to all citizens of the city. He pointed out the variation of the passengers, from members of "the lunch pail crowd" to passengers "resembling gentlemen."" (more on the podcast)
 ]]>2578chicago,cta,l,system,traintrue3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lead-gasoline--14518301Thomas Midgley Jr podcast, leaded gasoline history, Freon invention, environmental disasters, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, science gone wrong, history comedy, pollution history, inventor mistakes.

NOTE: MOST WAS WRITTEN BY ROSS POMEROY FOR “REAL CLEAR SCIENCE”

Thomas Midgley, Jr. was born on May 18, 1889 in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, a quiet, comely river town 31 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. A curious, athletic, and affable lad, Thomas flourished under the tutelage of his inventor father. He would later attend Cornell University, where he received a degree in mechanical engineering. It was here that Thomas took to carrying a periodic table with him at all times, a tool that would prove much more useful to him than a mechanic's wrench. (more on the podcast) ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/02/13/episode-2--lead-gasolineMon, 13 Feb 2017 15:10:00 +0000Robert BaconThomas Midgley Jr. was once hailed as a brilliant inventor—the mind behind leaded gasoline and Freon. Unfortunately, his “genius” inventions also poisoned the world and wrecked the ozone layer. Comedians Robert Bacon and Mike Kauffman dig into the...Thomas Midgley Jr podcast, leaded gasoline history, Freon invention, environmental disasters, weird history podcast, Mistakes Were Made podcast, science gone wrong, history comedy, pollution history, inventor mistakes.

NOTE: MOST WAS WRITTEN BY ROSS POMEROY FOR “REAL CLEAR SCIENCE”

Thomas Midgley, Jr. was born on May 18, 1889 in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, a quiet, comely river town 31 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. A curious, athletic, and affable lad, Thomas flourished under the tutelage of his inventor father. He would later attend Cornell University, where he received a degree in mechanical engineering. It was here that Thomas took to carrying a periodic table with him at all times, a tool that would prove much more useful to him than a mechanic's wrench. (more on the podcast) ]]>1714gasoline,history,inventor,lead gas,thomas midgleytrue2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/niagara-falls--14518300
Sources - 12 3 4 5 6 7

 ]]>http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mistakes/2017/02/13/episode-1--niagara-fallsMon, 13 Feb 2017 15:00:00 +0000Robert BaconIn 1827 the owner of a nearby hotel, William Forsyth, staged the first tourist stunt at Niagara Falls by sending a lake schooner (that’s a large boat with two masts) with a cargo of live animals over the Falls. He filled it with a buffalo, two small...
Sources - 12 3 4 5 6 7

 ]]>1940history,mistakes,niagara falls,sam patch,william forsythtrue1full