Badass of the Week

John Paul Jones: Admiral of Anarchy

In today's swashbuckling episode, Ben and Pat set sail on an adrenaline-fueled adventure with John Paul Jones, the fearless naval commander who gave the British navy a run for their money.  Here we'll chart the daring exploits of the man who declared, "I have not yet begun to fight," and meant every word. From his legendary sea battles to his relentless pursuit of victory, Jones's story is a tidal wave of audacious heroics and nautical badassery. Prepare to hoist the anchor and dive into the epic saga of John Paul Jones, the pirate patriot who rocked the high seas. 

Roy Benavidez : Rumble in the Jungle

Ben Thompson is joined by Producer Andrew Jacobs in today's episode as they discuss the epic tale of Roy Benavidez, a human hurricane who tore through the jungles of Vietnam with unstoppable force. In this action-packed episode, witness how Roy transformed into a one-man army, rescuing comrades and defying death like it was just another day at the office. From brushing off land-mines, dodging bullets to taking down enemy fighters, his story is a whirlwind of bravery. Get ready to be blown away (pun intended) by the legend of Roy Benavidez. 

Constitutional Badasses with special guest A.J. Jacobs

New York Times best-selling author A.J. Jacobs (author of the new book The Year of Living Constitutionally) joins Ben and Dr. Pat to talk about some of the unexpected people who have led to changes in the U.S. Constitution over the years. 

Handsome Mingyan: The man who stole 10,000 horses

On this week's episode Ben and Dr. Pat chat about "Handsome" Mingyan a mythological character from the Jangar Epic, a group of stories that comprise what some might call the Mongolian King Arthur. He was a minor character in our previous episode about the Scarlet Khongor - today he takes center stage. 

Gus March-Philips and the real Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare

In today's episode Ben Thompson and Producer Andrew Jacobs talk about the true story behind the new movie The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. And you won't be surprised to know that Operation Postmaster and those behind it were even more badass than portrayed in the movie!

Ten Tsewang: The Sherpa Who Raced to Tell the World Everest Had Been Climbed

On today's episode Ben Thompson is joined by journalist and host of Outside Podcast Peter Frick-Wright to tell the story of Ten Tswewang who ran a grueling 200 mile race from Everest to Kathmandu to tell the world that Everest had finally been summited. Along the way they'll chat about Sherpas and Everest and how gnarly it really gets up there. 

Ridiculous History: Ben joins Noel and Ben of Ridiculous History

Badass listeners: This week we're sharing Ben's recent appearance on the Ridiculous History Podcast where they chat about Le Maupin. We'll resume our regular scheduled programming next week! 

REPLAY: La Maupin and the Chevalier de Saint-Georges: Swordfighting Adventurerers of the French Revolution

Hello regular listeners and new listeners - here's a replay of Le Maupin for those joining us from Ridiculous History. If you are in to badass swordfights, debauchery, classical music, big fancy hats, and a couple unlikely heroes face-stabbing their way to success against seemingly-impossible odds, then this is the episode for you. Julie D'Aubigny and Joseph Boulogne -- better known as La Maupin and the Chevalier de Saint-Georges to the adoring hordes of onlookers cheering them on in battle and on the musical stage -- were two of the most badass swordfighters in the history of Early Modern France. Pat and Ben discuss both of these colorful heroes and detail their adventures kicking-ass and taking names across 18th century Europe.
 

Ignacio Zaragoza: The Hero of Cinco de Mayo

With Cinco De Mayo coming up this weekend, Ben and producer Andrew Jacobs talk about Ignacio Zaragoza who led Mexican forces to victory over French Invaders way back in 1862, leading to the holiday so many of us love to celebrate with chips, guac and a cerveza! 
 

Benvenuto Cellini: Maestro of Mischief - with guest Daniele Bolleli

Known for his masterful sculptures and fiery temper, Benvenuto Cellini’s escapades ranged from dueling in the streets to making audacious escapes from papal prisons. Join Ben and Daniele as they unfurl Cellini's wild stories and scandalous life.