Podcast · History

The Explorers Podcast

by Matt Breen · English · History

The Explorers Podcast is about the greatest explorers and explorations in history.

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 37 min
Latest: 6 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026 · 35 minNew

Walter Raleigh - Part 6 - Plots, treason and executions

In Part 6, Essex goes off the rails and plots seizing the throne. Then the death of Elizabeth sends Raleigh's fortunes into a downward spiral that will lead to charges of treason. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E266 · 29 Sep 2026 · 33 min

Walter Raleigh - Part 5 - The sacking of Cadiz - and two more Spanish Armadas

The war with Spain continues. Raleigh is badly injured in the attack and sacking of Cadiz, and King Philip organizes not just one new armada - but two - to try and finally overthrow Elizabeth. Meanwhile, Robert Devereux - the Earl of Essex - gets bolder and more powerful. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
E265 · 9 Sep 2026 · 37 min

Walter Raleigh - Part 4 - The Search for El Dorado

On the outs with the queen, Raleigh makes a huge gamble by organizing an expedition to find the legendary El Dorado in Guyana (aka Guiana). In this episode we cover Raleigh's expedition that he hopes will make him a fortune - and get him back into the good graces of Elizabeth. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
E264 · 31 Aug 2026 · 39 min

Walter Raleigh - Part 3 - War with Spain, the fate of the Roanoke Colony, and secret marriages

In part 3 of our series, we spend a lot of time talking about the continuing war with Spain - including the famous Spanish Armada. We also detail the fate of the Roanoke Colony, and discuss the fallout with Queen Elizabeth over Raleigh's secret marriage. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
E26 · 18 Aug 2026 · 36 min

Walter Raleigh - Part 2 - Virginia Colony and the growing Spanish threat

In part 2 of our series, Raleigh rises up at the court of Queen Elizabeth. He also begins series of expeditions to North America - to try and establish the first permanent English settlement in the New World. While all that happens, the military might of King Phillip and Spain looms on the horizon. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad…
E262 · 11 Aug 2026 · 34 min

Walter Raleigh - Part 1 - soldier, privateer, and courtier

Walter Raleigh would be one of the most recognizable person of the Elizabethan era. He was a soldier, explorer, adventurer, writer, poet and favorite of Queen Elizabeth. In part one of our story, we look at his humble beginnings, including his time as a solder in France and Ireland, a stint as a privateer, and finally a fixture in the cutthroat world of Queen Elizabeth's court. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the…
E261 · 21 Jul 2026 · 32 min

Stephen Bishop and the Exploration of Mammoth Cave

In the mid-1800s, Stephen Bishop - a slave - would emerge as one of the greatest cavers in history due to his explorations of Mammoth Cave - the world's most extensive cave system. Despite his status as an enslaved person, he became famous in his lifetime as a daring, fearless, intelligent, and engaging guide and explorer. This is a single-episode topic. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us…
7 Jul 2026 · 39 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 7 - Journey home and later years

In the final part of our series, Barth crosses the Sahara a second time - this on his way home - ending his epic 5+ year journey through Central Africa. We then look at Barth's efforts to find recognition amongst his peers - as well as put together his massive book on his travels. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
25 Jun 2026 · 37 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 6 - Sheikh Ahmad al-Bakkay al-Kunti and Timbuktu

Barth has reached the legendary city of Timbuktu. But now he is trapped - as local rulers set out to capture - or kill - the Christian who has dared to come to their lands. But Barth forms a unique friendship with Sheikh Ahmad al-Bakkay al-Kunti - who protects our explorer. Then, after nearly nine months - he finally will set off for Bornu - only to find that everyone believes him to be dead. Thus, to get home, he must march 1,500 miles through hostile lands with no money or supplies, and fighting increasingly debilitating illnesses. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by…
16 Jun 2026 · 37 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 5 - The long road to Timbuktu

After the death of his fellow scientist, Heinrich Barth - now alone - heads off on his most audacious journey yet - a 1,500 miles trek across war-torn Central Africa to the legendary city of Timbuktu. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
5 Jun 2026 · 38 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 4 - Kingdoms of Africa

In part 4 of our series, Heinrich Barth travels throughout central Africa, visiting the kingdoms of Adamawa, Bagirmi, Mandara and Musgu - many never before visited by a white man. He will ride with notorious Arab bandits, see devastating slave raids, discover the secrets of a great river, and escape death on numerous occasions. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at…
20 May 2026 · 39 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 3 - Into the heart of Central Africa

In part 3 of our series, Heinrich Barth, traveling alone, becomes to first European to visit the legendary city of Agadez. He then journeys into the heart of Central Africa, going to the cities of Katsina, Kano, and Kukawa. But war will rage throughout the kingdom of Bornu, and a year of hard living will claim one of the members of the expedition. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at…
12 May 2026 · 36 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 2 - Across the Sahara

In part 2 of our series, Heinrich Barth sets out from Tripoli in an attempt to cross the deadly Sahara desert. He will find ancient ruins and mysterious artifacts; face deadly desert bandits, sandstorms, and an unforgiving sacred mountain that will nearly claim his life. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
28 Apr 2026 · 35 min

Heinrich Barth - Part 1 - Africa Calls

In part one of our series, German explorer Heinrich Barth cuts his teeth learning from some of the great scientists of the age - including the famed Alexander von Humboldt. He survives (barely) an attack by bandits in Northern Africa and conducts a journey through frontiers of three continents, before setting out on an epic expedition that will lead him across the Sahara Desert and into heart of unknown Africa. It is the start of a journey that will last five years and cover more than 10,000 miles. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at…
21 Apr 2026 · 52 min

Neptune's Fortune - An interview with author Julian Sancton

This is the story of the world's most valuable sunken treasure galleon - the San José - lost off the coast of Colombia in 1708. "Neptune's Gold: The Billion-Dollar Shipwreck and the Ghosts of the Spanish Empire" recounts the events surrounding the sinking of the vessel - and then 300+ years of searching to find the $1 billion in gold and silver that was lost in the wreck. This includes a cast of characters as colorful as they are mysterious - including Cuban-American shipwreck fanatic Roger Dooley. In this episode we interview author Julian Sancton (who also wrote the amazing "Madhouse at…
7 Apr 2026 · 31 min

Juan Ponce de León - Part 2 - Explorer

Ponce de León's goes from conquistador to explorer in the second part of our series. This time, he conducts two expeditions of exploration in search of the island of Beniny - which turns out to be Florida. We also talk about Ponce de León's connection to the Fountain of Youth. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription…
31 Mar 2026 · 32 min

Juan Ponce de León - Part 1 - Conquistador

In part one of our story, we look at Ponce de León's life as a conquistador - including his part in the subjugation of Hispaniola, then his exploration, conquest, and settlement of Puerto Rico, and finally his preparations to find the mysterious island of Beniny - aka - Florida. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while…
17 Mar 2026 · 33 min

Semyon Dezhnev and the exploration of Siberia

In 1648, a Russian expedition with seven boats and 90 men set out on the Arctic Ocean – above Siberia – to find rich lands to the east. The expedition would – in time – be led by Semyon Dezhnev – a Cossack. The Russians would be nearly killed due to storms, starvation, disease and hostile natives. But Dezhnev would survive – and go on to the first European to pass through the Bering Strait. He then spent 14 years exploring the northeast of Siberia – opening up the region for the Russian Empire. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at…
10 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 18 min

Monet Izabeth - the first American woman to ski solo, and unsupported, to the South Pole

In January of 2026, Monet Izabeth completed a 57-day expedition in Antarctica, becoming the first American woman to ski solo, and unsupported, to the South Pole. In this episode, we interview her, and find out about her journey to not only reach the South Pole - but all the challenges leading up to expedition. Links: Website: https://www.monetizabeth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monet.izabeth Support Monet Izabeth: https://gofund.me/e529e5e3a Image: by Sara Jenner courtesy of Monet Izabeth Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at…
3 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 6 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 7 - The Terra Nova Expedition - The Journey Home

In the final part in our series, Scott and his team set off for their base - disappointed at being beaten to the South Pole by Roald Amundsen and the Norwegians. The result will be a tragedy of epic proportions. We will wrap up by discussing Scott's legacy - and how it had evolved over the last 100 years. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box…
18 Feb 2026 · 39 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 6 - The Terra Nova Expedition - Race to the Pole

Scott sets out for the South Pole in November of 1911 - trying to attempting the Norwegian team under Roald Amundsen. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at…
3 Feb 2026 · 47 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 5 - The Terra Nova Expedition

Scott slowly prepares for a return to Antarctica - but rivals abound - including the Americans, Swedes, Japanese, Germans and French. But the greatest challenger - Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen - is unknown until the last minute - setting up a dramatic race for the South Pole. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit…
21 Jan 2026 · 38 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 4 - The Discovery Expedition and Fame

Scott makes a record-setting excursion through the Transantarctic Mountains to cap off his historic Discovery expedition. He then returns to Great Britain a national hero. But as others - including Ernest Shackleton - make noise about making a go at the South Pole, Scott begins to plot his own return. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your…
13 Jan 2026 · 31 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 3 - The Discovery Expedition - Farthest South

In this episode, Scott - along with Dr. Edward Wilson and Ernest Shackleton - sets out across the Great Ice Barrier to make a farthest south record - and possibly reach the South Pole. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30 Dec 2025 · 37 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 2 - The Discovery Expedition

In part 2 of our series, Scott leads the Discovery to Antarctica. The expedition will explore the area around McMurdo Sound, as well as the Great Ice Barrier. There will be adventures and discoveries as well. Then, in the winter of 1902, Scott will plan an journey into the continent's interior - which could lead to a go at the South Pole. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at…
16 Dec 2025 · 37 min

Robert Falcon Scott - Part 1

In part 1 of our series, we look at the early life of Robert Falcon Scott - including his naval career. We also discuss the state of exploration regarding Antarctica - the last unexplored continent in the world. We then go through Scott's appointment - through the influence of Sir Clements Markham - to head the upcoming British National Antarctic Expedition - better known as the Discovery Expedition. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in…
2 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 2 min

The Polynesians

Around 1,000 AD, the Polynesians spread across the South Pacific like the tentacles of an octopus. Without metal or modern navigational tools, they sailed across thousands of miles of open ocean to find and colonize hundreds of islands, including Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawaii, Samoa, Easter Island and many others. They are some of the most extraordinary explorers in the history of the world - and this is their story. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network:…
11 Nov 2025 · 28 min

Nero's Nile Expedition

In 61 AD, Roman Emperor Nero ordered an expedition up the Nile River - to explore the unknown lands to the south - and attempt to find the source of the mysterious river. This is the story of that expedition. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
28 Oct 2025 · 25 min

The Vivaldi Brothers and the first attempt to sail from Europe to India via the Cape Route

In 1291, two Genoese brothers, Vandino and Ugolino Vivaldi, led the first known attempt to sail from Europe to India by going around the southern tip of Africa. The attempt - which failed - would generate rumors and speculation for hundreds of years. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Visit https://rexmd.com/explorers and get up to 95% off ED treatment Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to https://saily.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is…
23 Oct 2025 · 51 min

HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 5 – A conversation with Hubert Sagnières

As a follow up to the Investigator series, we interviewed Hubert Sagnières - the author of "For Glory, Not Gold." We talk about a wide range of topics, including the Investigator, exploration in general, his inspirations, and plans for the future. It is a nice way to wrap up our series. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Visit https://rexmd.com/explorers and get up to 95% off ED treatment Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Download Saily app or go to to…

About The Explorers Podcast

The Explorers Podcast is about the greatest explorers and explorations in history.

The Explorers Podcast is a English history podcast from Matt Breen. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Matt Breen
Language: English
Category: History
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 37 min
Latest episode: 6 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1161063301
Rights: Matt Breen

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The Melo app keeps playing with the screen off, works in the car and on your watch, wakes you to your station, and browses the whole catalogue offline. Free, no ads, no account.