Ancient History Hound

Which episode should someone start with?

Just pick a topic you like the sound of. The older ones might differ in sound quality, I don't have a studio but I hope the content makes up for that.

Which have been your favourite episodes so far?

I really enjoyed making the Roman Kings series, mainly because I don't generally have a series - my episodes tend to be either two parters or standalone ones. As a rule I enjoy all of them, it might sound a bit of a cop out but my main metric for my podcast isn't numbers, it's that I enjoy doing it. The minute that stops is the minute I hang up the microphone.

Which episode are you most proud of?

Each episode starts with an idea and then moves to lots of research, scripting, drafting (more drafting), recording and then editing. As such they are each labours of love so I can't say that any elicit more pride than another. I suppose the episodes with guests come with additional pressures and demands. So perhaps those? I've been very fortunate as all the guests I have had have been wonderful and put up with any technical issues!

What is your vision for your show?

If you gave me the option of 1,000 new listeners with no real interaction or feedback or 1 nice email, I'd take the latter. It seems to run against the feverish demand placed on new listeners but I have been happiest when I've had a nice review or email saying that someone liked a podcast. I'm not going to get rich or famous, it's a hobby so it has to be about enjoying it all.

What is your favourite other podcast that isn't yours?

I'm not sure I have a favourite, what I listen to is more influenced by my mood than anything. Could be a factual one or a drama. I appreciate it sounds like I'm doding that question.

How did you come up with the name for your podcast?

Initially my podcast was called 'AncientBlogger's podcast' as I was on twitter with that username and started an ancient history website with the same name. Then I realised it could mean anything! I've always loved dogs and thought the name tracked well. It means I get to stick my rescue dog in the coverart. I have become that type of person.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I studied ancient history at Uni and then decided that I wanted to go further with it, though I knew I wouldn't end up making a living out of it. I studied for an MA in Classical Civilisation part time whilst working and loved it. I have a regular day job but try to engage with ancient history as much as I can. I volunteer at schools (one in full Roman armour) and blog about ancient history. Recently I've been doing videos on TikTok all about it, no dancing though.