Seth Anderson
Reviewer Seth Anderson
February 17, 2006
History According to Bob is a short but sweet podcast in which the charming Bob Packett briefly goes over randomly chosen historical tidbits that he's come across in his 30 years as a history teacher. Do you want a sample? Well have you ever found yourself wondering what governed German U-Boat etiquette during World War 1? Interested in Mayan creationist myth? How about the time the Russians created a CIRCULAR war ship that unintentionally turned into a spinning top on its maiden voyage? These are the different topics Bob goes over for your pleasure, and I have to say, the show wouldn't work nearly as well if it weren't for bob's personality. He reminds me of my favorite teachers: kinda nerdy, but self aware and ultimately a gas to learn from. He ends each podcast with a thank you and a genuine hope that everyone enjoys what he's had to say. This is a valuable podcast, not only for the information imparted, but also because of the personality that brings it to life. Yes, Bob coughs and pauses during his delivery, but in the end, he's part of the reason podcasting is so vibrant and alive. Instead of hearing scripted, polished news that's as dry as a fossil, we hear a real teacher sharing his passion with the hope that listeners will benefit from what's he's found. Best of all, this information is totally free.