Finest Hours

On this episode we discuss the impact that Erich Maria Remarque has had on literature and society. His blockbuster novel, All Quiet on the Western Front, rawly captures the horrors of war. His warning is as relevant today as it was in 1918.

Louis Wain was a British artist with a truly distinctive art style, best known for his vibrant and whimsical paintings of cats. However, tragedy struck his life when he was diagnosed with schizophrenia in his later years, and this had a profound impact on both his life and his art. As he descended into the depths of mental illness, his art became increasingly abstract and psychedelic, reflecting the turmoil and chaos of his inner world. In his final years, Wain's paintings were a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and fantastical shapes, a reflection of his mind in a state of madness. Despite the tragic turn his life took, Wain's legacy as an artist endures, as his work continues to fascinate and inspire art lovers around the world.

Scottish Sailor, Privateer, and certified Madlad, Alexander Selkirk was stranded off the coast of South America in the 18th century. His story of survival is truly captivating.

In the final days of World War 2, Germany's prized Lipizzaners were under threat of Soviet destruction. Germans responsible for the care of the horses, set aside feelings of animosity towards the Americans and plead with them to rescue these prized horses from the onslaught of the Red Army.

Mathias Sindelar, an Austrian-born footballer, became a legend of the game and took a stand against Nazi Germany

William Slim was crucial to the British advance to liberate Burma from the Imperial Japanese Army in World War 2.

Steve Prefontaine, a martyr of unfulfilled human potential, is one of the most iconic athletes of all time. His influence transcended nations and generations. When his life was suddenly and tragically taken at 24, his mystique grew even more.

On this episode we discuss British mountaineering legend, George Mallory, possibly the first man to summit Mount Everest.

Charles Lindbergh was a fascinating American aviation pioneer. In this episode we discuss Charles' aviation career, famous flight across the atlantic, and the tragic kidnapping and murder of his son.

In a special episode of Finest Hours, learn about the all-female division of the Soviet Air Force that terrorized the invading Nazi army by flying bombing missions under the cover of darkness. Also in this episode, Skylar gets listed as a war casualty and a surprise visit from Abraham Lincoln.