Take On the World Podcast

Take On The World
  • 5.0 (9)
  • HISTORY
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Get ready to Take On the World! Join John and Mike D along with other hosts Deb Doughtery, Lexi, and Nathan Blaze for an exciting podcast that covers conventional historical topics as well as the unique and odd ones. From cryptids to true crime, serial killers to pop culture, Take On the World has something for everyone. Plus, add in personal stories, some fun and a little bit of beer, booze and brevity – you won't want to miss out on this bi-weekly adventure!

  1. Epi 146 : The Great Raid : Bataan's Last Hero's The WWII Rescue Mission You Need to Know

    MAR 30

    Epi 146 : The Great Raid : Bataan's Last Hero's The WWII Rescue Mission You Need to Know

    In this mini episode of Take On The World, John and Mike D. take a look at the legendary Great Raid at Cabanatuan, a daring World War II rescue mission led by U.S. Army Rangers, Alamo Scouts, and Filipino guerrillas. The discussion covers the brutal conditions endured by Allied prisoners, the connection to the Bataan Death March, and the incredible planning and execution that freed more than 500 prisoners from behind enemy lines. It’s a powerful story of courage, sacrifice, and one of the most successful rescue operations of the war.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodVisit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#TakeOnTheWorld#PodcastRecommendationOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    40 min
  2. When Surrender Meant Death: The Bataan March : Episode 145 #bataandeathmarch

    MAR 12

    When Surrender Meant Death: The Bataan March : Episode 145 #bataandeathmarch

    In this episode of Take On The World, John and Mike D revisit the Philippines to tell the full story of how the catastrophic 1942 defeat on Bataan ultimately connects to MacArthur’s triumphant return and the liberation of the islands. They walk through Japan’s early‑war strategy, the collapse of the combined U.S.–Philippine defense, and the surrender that triggered the infamous Bataan Death March—roughly 60–70 miles of forced movement marked by starvation, disease, beatings, bayonetings, roadside executions, and thousands of deaths on the way to Camp O’Donnell.From there, the episode follows the story forward: the rise of guerrilla resistance by escaped Bataan veterans, the years of brutal captivity in camps like Cabanatuan, and the January 30, 1945 “Great Raid” by U.S. Rangers, Alamo Scouts, and Filipino guerrillas that penetrated deep behind Japanese lines to rescue more than 500 POWs—many of them Bataan and Corregidor survivors. John and Mike D tie these moments together as grim bookends of the American experience in the Philippines, from surrender and war crimes to relief, rescue, and the long‑delayed promise to keep faith with Bataan’s defenders.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#BataanDeathMarch#BattleOfBataan#WorldWar2#PacificWar#PhilippinesWW2#LeyteGulf#TakeOnTheWorld#PodcastRecomendationOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    30 min
  3. Epi 144: Fear, Fun, and Folklore: Why Belsnickel and Krampus Still Haunt Christmas

    FEB 12

    Epi 144: Fear, Fun, and Folklore: Why Belsnickel and Krampus Still Haunt Christmas

    In this conversation, John and Mike D ask why figures like Krampus and Belsnickel keep coming back in festivals, horror movies, reenactments, and memes. They argue that these dark Christmas characters survive because they let communities play with fear, teach moral lessons, and push back against the overly sanitized holiday image. From Alpine Krampus runs to Pennsylvania’s revived Belsnickel celebrations, they show how old folklore keeps finding new life in the modern world.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#FearFunFolklore#KrampusRevival#BelsnickelRevival#DarkChristmasReturns#FolkloreLives#TakeOnTheWorld#podcastrecommendations On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    40 min
  4. Episode 143 : Unit 731: Japan’s Secret WWII Horror – The Auschwitz of the East

    JAN 29

    Episode 143 : Unit 731: Japan’s Secret WWII Horror – The Auschwitz of the East

    Delve into the terrifying truth behind Japan’s covert biological warfare unit — an operation responsible for thousands of civilian deaths. John and Mike D expose the gruesome experiments, human suffering, and the postwar cover-up that shielded war criminals in exchange for their scientific data. This episode uncovers one of history’s darkest secrets, long hidden from public view.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#unit731 #wwiihistory #JapaneseWarCrimes#AuschwitzOfTheEast#TakeOnTheWorld#podcastrecommendations On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    55 min
  5. Epi 142 Leyte Gulf: The Naval Brawl That Broke Japan’s Back

    JAN 14

    Epi 142 Leyte Gulf: The Naval Brawl That Broke Japan’s Back

    In this episode of Take On The World, we steam straight into the largest naval battle in history and the brutal campaign that led to Philippine independence. From the U.S. grabbing the Philippines in 1898, to MacArthur’s “I have returned,” to kamikazes, Taffy 3’s insane underdog stand, and the political tug‑of‑war that ended with independence in 1946, we connect the dots between empire, strategy, and some truly unbelievable moments of World War II. If you’ve ever wondered how one stretch of water could help break the Imperial Japanese Navy and reshape the Pacific, this is your port of call.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#takeontheworld #podcastrecomendation #navalhistory #pacificwar #BattleOfLeyteGulfOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    54 min
  6. Kursk: The Submarine Russia Couldn’t Save – TOTW Epi 141

    11/30/2025

    Kursk: The Submarine Russia Couldn’t Save – TOTW Epi 141

    This episode of the TOTW Podcast with hosts John and Mike D dives deep into one of the most infamous naval disasters in modern history: the sinking of the Russian submarine Kursk in August 2000. You break down what made the Kursk and its Oscar II–class sisters so massive and formidable, how a faulty torpedo likely triggered two devastating explosions, and why only 23 sailors initially survived before succumbing in the darkness. You also walk through the complex 2001 salvage operation, the decision to cut off the destroyed bow, and how politics, secrecy, and damaged public trust in Russia turned a tragedy into a long‑lasting symbol of systemic failure.Along the way, the conversation widens to Russia’s “Dead Hand” nuclear response concept, the ideological divide between the U.S. and Russia, and the ongoing war in Ukraine—tying the Kursk’s legacy to today’s geopolitical tensions. True to TOTW style, you also veer into everyday life: grinding commutes, red lights, school buses, and wrapping it all up over beers from Mike D’s favorite local brewery. It’s an episode that connects history, strategy, politics, and real life in one compelling discussion.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpod#TakeOnTheWorld#TheDen#podcastrecommendations #Kursk#KurskDisaster#SubmarineDisaster#RussianNavy#ColdWarLegacy#NuclearWeapons#DeadHandOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    1h 8m
  7. Sports Glory, Iconic Foods & Military Roots: Pennsylvania Edition

    11/13/2025

    Sports Glory, Iconic Foods & Military Roots: Pennsylvania Edition

    In this exciting episode of the TOTW Podcast, hosts John and Mike D dive deep into the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s history and culture. They explore the unparalleled sports tradition found in teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Phillies, celebrating their iconic championship victories. The discussion also highlights mouthwatering local foods such as Philly cheesesteaks and scrapple, and the crucial role Pennsylvania played in the birth of the United States—including the creation of the Army, Navy, and Marines.Listeners will gain fascinating insights into how Pennsylvania shaped American history and sports success, with anecdotes and facts showcasing the state’s unique character. Tune in for engaging stories, local pride, and a journey through the keystone to American heritage.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod and Code - TOTWPodCheck out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpodWe are a proud part of the Deluxe Edition Network .... Check out The Other Great Shows on our network at http://www.deluxeeditionnetwork.com#TakeOnTheWorld#Pennsylvania#PhillyCheesesteak#SteelersNation#EaglesFans#Phillies#USHistory#AmericanRevolution#MilitaryOrigins#PAFood#PodcastEpisode#SportsChampions#EastCoastEats# PodcastRecommendationOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    51 min
  8. Epi 139 Diving Into Danger: Byford Dolphin Accident, Saturation Diving & Unbelievable Stories

    10/15/2025

    Epi 139 Diving Into Danger: Byford Dolphin Accident, Saturation Diving & Unbelievable Stories

    Join John and Mike D on this gripping episode of Take On The World (TOTW) as they dive deep into the infamous 1983 Byford Dolphin diving bell decompression accident—one of the most shocking tragedies in commercial diving history. Mike D shares firsthand diving stories, revealing both the dangers and the camaraderie of a life underwater. Things take a twist when Mike recounts a practical joke about a fake diving accident that still doesn’t sit well with John, adding humor and tension to the discussion.The episode covers the harsh realities of decompression sickness, the complexities of saturation diving, and examines several other historical saturation diving accidents. Whether you’re fascinated by maritime disasters, diving technology, or just love compelling stories from real pros, this episode will keep you hooked from start to finish.Is there a topic you would like us to cover? Let us know. Drop us a line and tell us all about it at takeontheworld411@gmail.com.We will take on almost any topic with Our Take On the World!To Support the Show - @smackinsunflowerseeds - Awesome Sunflower seeds are so much better than what you get at the gas stations. Use this link https://www.smackinsunflowerseeds.com/TOTWPod Check out www.coffeebros.com and Use TOTW10 for a discount at checkout.Visit for links to all of our socials. https://linktr.ee/totwpodWe are a proud part of the Deluxe Edition Network .... Check out The Other Great Shows on our network at http://www.deluxeeditionnetwork.com#TakeOnTheWorld#podcastrecomendation #ByfordDolphin#SaturationDiving#DivingAccidents#DecompressionSickness#DeepSeaDivingOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4v6bFimpr1SSNg7xmvjBStYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@totwpodor Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-1178413

    1h 11m
See All (202)

Trailers

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Get ready to Take On the World! Join John and Mike D along with other hosts Deb Doughtery, Lexi, and Nathan Blaze for an exciting podcast that covers conventional historical topics as well as the unique and odd ones. From cryptids to true crime, serial killers to pop culture, Take On the World has something for everyone. Plus, add in personal stories, some fun and a little bit of beer, booze and brevity – you won't want to miss out on this bi-weekly adventure!

Information

  • Creator
    Take On The World
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    202
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Take On The World
  • Show Website
    Take On the World Podcast