Never Mind The Dambusters

Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies
  • 4.9 (45)
  • HISTORY
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY

Never Mind The Dambusters…It’s The Bomber Command Podcast! Join historians and authors Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies as they delve into the world of RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War. In this weekly podcast  (episodes released every Wednesday), Jane and James explore strategy, policy, and the events which shaped one of the most controversial campaigns of the war.   Despite their iconic status, Bomber Command's history extends far beyond the famed Dambusters raid of 1943 and the Avro Lancaster. Through insightful discussions, expert analysis of the strategic bombing campaign and first hand accounts by veterans and civilians on the ground, Never Mind the Dambusters offers listeners a comprehensive exploration of Bomber Command's operations and the diverse aircraft it employed, as well as tackling some tough topics. Jane and James will be joined by leading academics, historians, aircraft enthusiasts, technicians and engineers and veterans' family members. Expect  discussions on relevant books and films and  a spotlight on a different aircraft in each episode. Please send in your questions to us on X (twitter) at @RAFBomber_Pod and on Instagram at @NeverMindTheDambusters. You can email the show at nmtdambusters@gmail.com, and continue the conversations in our Facebook group.  Never Mind the Dambusters Merchandise is now available at https://never-mind-the-dambusters.teemill.com/

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Episode 63: "Advance Britannia" - Bomber Command & Britain's War 1942-1945, with Professor Alan Allport

    Send us a message or question! (Buy tickets for Jane's talk at the International Bomber Command Centre, Lincoln, on 5 March 2026 here )  In this episode, Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by historian Professor Alan Allport for a wide-ranging discussion of his new book, Advance Britannia, which re-examines Britain’s war effort from 1942 onwards — a period when the nation moved from survival to sustained, large-scale offensive operations. From the rapid expansion of RAF Bomber Command to the mounting moral, political, and human questions surrounding the bombing war, Advance Britannia offers a fresh perspective on how Britain fought, endured, and understood the later years of the Second World War. Alan Allport brings his characteristic clarity and depth to topics including: Why 1942 marks a turning point in Britain’s war effortBomber Command at the height of its power and controversyHow the bombing campaign was understood by the British public at the timeMoral debate, doubt, and dissent within wartime BritainBritain’s changing role within the Allied coalition alongside the USAAFHow victory shaped post-war memory and reckoningWhat Advance Britannia adds to our understanding of Britain’s wartime experienceThis episode situates Bomber Command within a broader social, political, and cultural history, offering listeners a deeper understanding of how the air war was fought — and how it has been remembered. Advance Britannia is available as a hardback book, an ebook, and on Audible. See Links here About the Guest Professor Alan Allport is a historian of modern Britain and a frequent guest on Never Mind the Dambusters. He is the author of several acclaimed books, including Demobbed, Browned Off and Bloody-Minded, and Britain at Bay. His work focuses on the social and cultural history of war, with particular attention to morale, memory, and lived experience. Coming Up Next In the next episode, Jane will be joined by Mike Peters from the Mighty Eighth Podcast to discuss the USAAF daylight bombing raids on Schweinfurt, examining their objectives, their cost, and what they reveal about the American approach to the air war. Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    53 min

  2. 28 JAN

    Episode 62 Peenemunde: The Attack on Hitler's V-Weapons, with Sean Feast

    Send us a message or question! In this episode, Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by author and military historian Sean Feast to examine one of the most strategically important — and morally complex — operations of the bombing war: RAF Bomber Command’s attack on the German V-weapons research centre at Peenemünde in August 1943. Peenemünde was no ordinary target. As the heart of Germany’s V-1 and V-2 programme, it represented a direct threat to Britain and forced Allied planners to attempt an unprecedented level of precision under combat conditions. The raid, known as Operation Hydra, played a crucial role in the development of the Master Bomber concept and highlighted both the possibilities and limitations of precision bombing in 1943. Sean draws on decades of research to explore: Why the V-weapons programme alarmed Allied leadersThe intelligence picture behind identifying and targeting PeenemündeHow Operation Hydra differed from routine bombing operationsThe evolution and operational role of the Master BomberWhat the raid was like for the aircrews who flew itBomber Command losses and the human cost of the operationThe raid’s short- and long-term impact on the V-1 and V-2 programmesHow Peenemünde is remembered today, and what it reveals about the moral complexity of the bombing warThis episode goes beyond operational history to focus on the lived experience of Bomber Command aircrew, the pressures they faced, and the difficult balance between innovation, necessity, and sacrifice. About the Guest Sean Feast began his career in journalism in the mid-1980s and is now a highly respected military historian and author of more than twenty books. His works include Master Bombers, Heroic Endeavour, and A Pathfinder’s War. He is a regular contributor to FlyPast and Aeroplane Monthly, and his research has significantly shaped modern understanding of RAF Bomber Command and its aircrews. Sean is also the co-host of the new aviation history podcast Fighting High, which explores the air war through expert discussion and deep historical insight. You can find Fighting High here: 👉 https://fightinghighpodcast.com (or via your usual podcast platforms) Coming Up Next In the next episode, Jane will be joined by Professor Alan Allport to discuss his new book Advance Britannia, examining Britain’s war effort from 1943 onwards and how the conflict has been remembered and interpreted. Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    56 min

  3. 21 JAN

    Episode 61: The Wooden Wonder - The De Havilland Mosquito, with John Lilley

    Send us a message or question! Episode Description / Show Notes: In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by John Lilley from the People’s Mosquito Project to explore the extraordinary story of one of the Second World War’s most innovative and versatile aircraft: the de Havilland Mosquito. Often described as “the wooden wonder,” the Mosquito defied conventional thinking with its largely wooden construction, exceptional speed, and remarkable adaptability. From precision bombing and Pathfinder duties to reconnaissance and special operations, the Mosquito played a unique and vital role within RAF Bomber Command — and far beyond it. John discusses the origins and development of the Mosquito, its operational use during the bombing campaign, and the experiences of the crews who flew this fast, agile, and demanding aircraft. We also explore some of the Mosquito’s most famous raids, the aircraft’s place in popular memory, and why it continues to capture the imagination more than 80 years on. The conversation then turns to the People’s Mosquito Project, an ambitious and inspiring effort to restore a Mosquito to flying condition in the UK. John explains how the project began, the challenges of restoring such a unique aircraft, and how listeners can support or get involved. This episode offers both historical insight and a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving aviation heritage for future generations. Topics Covered: The development and design of the de Havilland MosquitoWhy wooden construction was both radical and effectiveThe Mosquito’s role within RAF Bomber CommandPrecision raids and notable Mosquito operationsLife as a Mosquito aircrew memberThe aircraft’s legacy and place in popular memoryInside the People’s Mosquito ProjectRestoring a Mosquito to flight in the 21st centuryGuest: John Lilley Chairman, The People’s Mosquito Project Links & Further Reading: The People’s Mosquito Project: https://www.peoplesmosquito.org.uk/ Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    51 min

  4. 14 JAN

    Episode 60: The Short Stirling, with Jonathan Falconer

    Send us a message or question! In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by Jonathan Falconer, a leading authority on the RAF and the Second World War, to discuss the Short Stirling, Bomber Command's first four-engine heavy bomber. They explore its development, operational history, and the unique challenges it faced. Jonathan shares insights into the aircraft's design, its role in key operations, and its eventual transition to transport and special duties roles. The conversation also touches on the legacy of the Stirling and the men who flew it, highlighting its often overlooked contributions to the war effort. You can read more about Jonathan's work here The titles referenced in this episode:  Short Stirling Owner's Workshop Manual (Haynes) https://amzn.eu/d/1TFE4JV Handley Page Halifax Owner's Workshop Manual (Haynes) https://amzn.eu/d/cyCLs9O RAF Bomber Command Operations Manual  https://amzn.eu/d/cyCLs9O Bomber Command Crewman https://amzn.eu/d/g3ZyFQ7 Stirling Wings https://amzn.eu/d/dPwKkse Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    43 min

  5. 7 JAN

    Episode 59: Oh Canada! RCAF, 6 Group & 429 Bison Sqn, with Greg Kopchuk

    Send us a message or question! Welcome back and a happy new year !  🇨🇦 In this episode of "Never Mind the Dambusters," host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by Dr. Dan Ellin and Canadian historian Greg Kopchuk . The team explore the Canadian contribution to RAF Bomber Command, and the formation of 6 Group, from the perspective of 429 Bison Squadron. Greg explains how the Squadron got off to a fairly rocky start, with a CO who wouldn't fly and a very high casualty rate.  Greg's book on 429 Sqn is available here Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    45 min

  6. SEASON 4, EPISODE 58 TRAILER

    Series 4 Trailer

    Send us a message or question! SERIES 4 OF NEVER MIND THE DAMBUSTERS IS ON THE WAY! Brand new episodes drop Wednesday January 7th 2026 (available from Saturday 3rd for our paid subscribers).  We're returning with our most ambitious series yet — filled with new interviews, untold stories, and in-depth explorations of RAF Bomber Command. Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming up: ✈️ The Short Stirling with historian Jonathan Falconer 🪵 The de Havilland Mosquito with John Lilley from the People’s Mosquito project 🇨🇦 429 Bison Squadron and the RCAF with Greg Kopchuck 🎯 The Peenemünde Raid & the Master Bomber with Sean Feast 🇺🇸 USAAF Schweinfurt missions with Mike Peters of the Mighty Eighth podcast 💣 Bomb disposal in wartime Hamburg with Thomas Rost 📚 Professor Alan Allport on his new book Advance Britannia 🔥 Erik Parker on the Rotterdam raids …and much more to come. If you’re fascinated by the aircraft, the crews, the tactics, or the debates that still surround Bomber Command, you won’t want to miss this. Make sure to follow the page, join our discussion group, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you’re ready for takeoff! #NeverMindTheDambusters #WW2History #BomberCommand #AviationHistory #Podcast Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    5 min

  7. 30/09/2025

    Episode 57: The U-boat War - Wolfpack, with Roger Moorhouse

    Send us a message or question! Have we got a treat for you...Something different - U-boats instead of aircraft! In our final episode of this series, “The U-boat War - Wolfpack,” we explore the U-Boat War from the German perspective with historian and author Roger Moorhouse, whose new book Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War will be published on 9 October 2025. Hosts James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford-Lowes dive into what life was really like aboard German U-boats, the shifting strategies of the Battle of the Atlantic,  the human stories behind the steel hulls, the role of Ultra Intelligence, the impact of Allied bombing and developments in technology.  By looking at the war through the eyes of the U-boat crews, this episode reveals a side of World War II history that’s often overlooked. Join us for a fascinating conversation that brings these powerful and complex narratives to life. Further reading:  You can read Jane's articles on Ultra Intelligence in the Battle of the Atlantic and How to Survive Being Sunk by a U-Boat here.  Never Mind the Dambusters Merchandise is now available at https://never-mind-the-dambusters.teemill.com/ Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    49 min

  8. 23/09/2025

    Episode 56: Rough Justice - The Murder of Allied Airmen, with Thomas Rost

    Send us a message or question! In Episode 56 ( the penultimate episode of series 3), we delve into a chilling chapter of World War II history: the murders of Allied airmen in Germany. As the war raged on, downed airmen often found themselves at the mercy of their captors - military, civilian authorities and sometimes ordinary citizens. This episode uncovers the fate of one Allied airman, missing in action in January 1945. We are joined by German historian Thomas Rost, and together we explore the complex web of wartime  and post-war justice, and the search for the truth.  A thought -provoking discussion about crime, justice, due process, human responses and revenge. Support the show Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams. Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram) You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here . You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

    46 min
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4.9
out of 5
45 Ratings

About

Never Mind The Dambusters…It’s The Bomber Command Podcast! Join historians and authors Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies as they delve into the world of RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War. In this weekly podcast  (episodes released every Wednesday), Jane and James explore strategy, policy, and the events which shaped one of the most controversial campaigns of the war.   Despite their iconic status, Bomber Command's history extends far beyond the famed Dambusters raid of 1943 and the Avro Lancaster. Through insightful discussions, expert analysis of the strategic bombing campaign and first hand accounts by veterans and civilians on the ground, Never Mind the Dambusters offers listeners a comprehensive exploration of Bomber Command's operations and the diverse aircraft it employed, as well as tackling some tough topics. Jane and James will be joined by leading academics, historians, aircraft enthusiasts, technicians and engineers and veterans' family members. Expect  discussions on relevant books and films and  a spotlight on a different aircraft in each episode. Please send in your questions to us on X (twitter) at @RAFBomber_Pod and on Instagram at @NeverMindTheDambusters. You can email the show at nmtdambusters@gmail.com, and continue the conversations in our Facebook group.  Never Mind the Dambusters Merchandise is now available at https://never-mind-the-dambusters.teemill.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Jane Gulliford Lowes and James Jefferies
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Never Mind The Dambusters
  • Show Website
    Never Mind The Dambusters

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