World War One Stories

Episode 8- Uncertain Horizons

In this gripping episode of World War I Stories, follow the harrowing experiences of Dimitri and his fellow soldiers as they find themselves trapped and surrounded by Austrian forces in the dense forests of the Carpathian Mountains. Faced with dire conditions and dwindling morale, Dimitri, Joseph, and Lev must grapple with the harsh realities of war.

As they confront frostbite, leadership voids, and the uncertainty of survival, a powerful revelation changes the course of their lives: the abdication of the Tsar and the rise of a provisional government. With newfound hope, Dimitri and his companions make the daring decision to desert their post and head to Petrograd in search of change.

Their journey is fraught with challenges as they navigate through freezing rain, distrust, and a landscape rife with political upheaval. As they arrive in Petrograd, they encounter the fervor surrounding Lenin's return, and a new vision for Russia emerges. What awaits Dimitri, Joseph, and Lev in this pivotal moment in history?

Episode 7- The Unraveling

Welcome to the World War I Stories Podcast, where history comes alive through the voices of those who lived it. In this gripping episode, "The Unraveling," we journey to the quaint village of Pele in Bosnia, where young Amir and his family are swept up in the excitement of Archduke Franz Ferdinand's visit to Sarajevo.

Amir's anticipation turns into a day of unforgettable events, as the vibrant city atmosphere transforms into chaos following a shocking assassination attempt. Experience the tension and drama of that fateful day through the eyes of Amir, his family, and a familiar face caught up in the turmoil.

Episode 6-The Shadow Of War

Join us for an evocative journey through the eyes of Elijah Thompson, a young Black man from Brooklyn, as he navigates the tumultuous landscape of World War I in our latest episode, "In the Shadow of War." 

On the morning of April 6, 1917, excitement buzzes through the streets of Brooklyn as the United States declares war on Germany. Eager to prove his worth and fight for freedom, Elijah enlists in the army, driven by a fierce determination to carve out his place in a world that often overlooks him. But as he embarks on this journey, he must confront not only the challenges of battle but also the harsh realities of racial discrimination within the military and society at large.

Through heartfelt conversations with his family, Elijah grapples with the weight of his decision to fight for a country that has historically marginalized him. As he trains with the 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the Harlem Hellfighters, he finds camaraderie among fellow soldiers who share his struggles and aspirations. Together, they face grueling training, the horrors of combat, and the ever-present shadow of prejudice.

As the war unfolds, Elijah's bravery is put to the test in the trenches of France, where he must confront the physical and emotional toll of warfare. A fateful mission leads to a life-altering injury, forcing him to reevaluate his identity and purpose. 

Returning home, Elijah faces a new battle—reintegrating into a society that still grapples with racial inequality. Will he find acceptance and a sense of belonging in a world that has changed, yet remains the same?

"In the Shadow of War" is a powerful exploration of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, shedding light on the untold stories of Black soldiers during World War I. Join us as we honor Elijah's journey and the legacy of those who fought for freedom, both on the battlefield and at home. Tune in for an episode that promises to inspire, challenge, and provoke thought about the complexities of identity and the enduring fight for justice.

Episode 5- Carved In Memory

Welcome to the World War I Stories Podcast, where history comes alive through personal narratives. In this poignant episode titled "Carved in Memory," we journey to the small coastal town of Seabrook, New Zealand, where young Percy faces the emotional turmoil of his brother Walter's decision to enlist in the army.

As Walter prepares to leave for war, the brothers share a heartfelt moment under the starry sky, exchanging a carved wooden boat as a symbol of their unbreakable bond. Despite the distance, their connection remains strong through letters and a cherished notebook.

Experience the profound impact of war on family and community, as Percy grapples with grief and ultimately finds solace in Walter's words. This touching story of love, loss, and resilience captures the enduring spirit of those who lived through World War I.

Join host Henny B. for this compelling episode, and immerse yourself in the voices of the past. Listener discretion is advised due to graphic content.

Episode 4-The Weight of Duty

In this gripping episode of "World War I Stories," we delve into the moral dilemmas faced by Seaman Carl Fischer, a young sailor aboard the German U-boat, U-58. As the submarine prowls the treacherous waters of the Atlantic, Carl grapples with the brutal realities of war and the controversial practice of unrestricted submarine warfare.

When ordered to fire upon a civilian liner, Carl's hesitation alters the course of the mission, leading to accusations of treason. The ensuing tension aboard the U-58 reaches a boiling point, as Carl faces a makeshift trial and the weight of his conscience. Amidst the chaos, he must navigate the treacherous waters of duty, morality, and survival.

Join host Henny B as we explore this poignant tale of conflict, courage, and the cost of conscience during one of history's most tumultuous times. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review for more captivating stories from the Great War.

Episode 3.5- An Introduction

Welcome to the World War I Stories Podcast, where history comes alive through captivating narratives. In this special episode, host Henny B. steps away from storytelling to share the personal journey that led to the creation of this unique podcast. Discover the inspiration behind the series, rooted in a passion for audiobooks and a fascination with the complex events of World War I.

Henny B. delves into the motivations for exploring the untold stories of individuals affected by the Great War, from soldiers to civilians, engineers to politicians. He reflects on the interconnectedness of the first three episodes and hints at potential future connections within the series.

Listeners are also given a glimpse into Henny B.'s life, from his upbringing in a military family to his current endeavors in manufacturing, writing, and podcasting. He candidly shares personal struggles and triumphs, including his journey to sobriety, inviting listeners to connect with him on TikTok for further engagement.

Join Henny B. in this introspective episode as he expresses gratitude to the audience and invites feedback and ideas for the podcast's future. Tune in to World War I Stories for more historical narratives that bring the past to life.

Episode 3-The Silent Return

In this poignant episode of the World War I Stories Podcast, "The Silent Return," host Henny B. takes listeners on a journey through the emotional landscape of a family torn apart by war. Sixteen-year-old William bravely enlists to fight in World War I, leaving behind his devastated mother, Claire, who clings to his letters as a lifeline amidst the chaos and fear of the trenches.

As Claire grapples with the void left by William's absence, she finds solace in the companionship of Thomas, a fellow sufferer of war's losses. Through shared grief, love blossoms, offering Claire a chance to rebuild her life while honoring her son's memory. 

Join us as we explore themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of unimaginable sorrow, capturing the enduring spirit of those who lived through one of history's darkest times.

Episode 2- A Minute from Freedom

In this gripping episode of the World War I Stories Podcast, host Henny B. transports listeners to Belgium in 1914, where the distant rumble of artillery becomes a cruel lullaby for Henri and his family. As the relentless shelling draws closer, they make the heart-wrenching decision to flee their farm, now a graveyard of their lost innocence.

Amidst the chaos of war, Henri, his wife Marie, and their two daughters navigate a treacherous landscape under the cover of night. Their journey is fraught with danger as they strive to reach the safety of the British and French lines, guided by the flickering hope that darkness offers protection.

Join us as we delve into the emotional and harrowing tale of one family's desperate bid for survival, a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. Through evocative storytelling, this episode captures the haunting echoes of conflict and the fragile thread of hope that binds us all.

Listener discretion is advised due to the graphic nature of some scenes. Subscribe and stay tuned for more stories that bring history to life through the voices of those who lived it.