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Origin Story

Podmasters
Eugenics
John Maynard Keynes
Nazism
Illuminati
French Revolution
Racism
Conspiracy Theories
George Orwell
Social Darwinism
Politics
George Bernard Shaw
Francis Galton
Science
Charles Davenport
H.G. Wells
Bavarian Illuminati
Baby Boomers
Freemasons
Utilitarianism
Generational Theory

What are the real stories behind the most misunderstood and abused ideas in politics? From Conspiracy Theory to Woke to Centrism and beyond, Ian Dunt and Dorian Lynskey dig into the astonishing secret histories of concepts you thought you knew. Want to support us in making future seasons? There are now two ways you can help out: • Patreon – Get early episodes, live Zooms, merchandise and more from... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes135Founded4 years ago
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News CommentaryNewsSociety & Culture

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Artwork for Origin Story

Latest Episodes

Origin Story is live at the Bloomsbury Theatre, London on Weds 15th April 2026 - tickets selling fast, get yours here

Welcome to a between-season bonus episode of Origin Story. We’ve missed you! This one emerged from our three-parter on the history ... more

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Welcome to the finale of Origin Story season eight: the story of socialism. Thanks to everybody who has followed our most ambitious season yet, especially those whose support has enabled us to make it.

We left the narrative in 1991, with the collaps... more

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Welcome to the penultimate episode of Origin story season eight: the story of socialism. We close the book on Soviet communism with the story of how it all came crashing down — what has been called the most unexpected event of the twentieth century. more

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Welcome back to Origin Story season eight: The Story of Socialism. This time, we take a look at hands-down the sexiest revolutionary of socialist history: Che Guevara.

Born in Argentina to wealthy but unhappy parents, Ernesto Guevara travelled aroun... more

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Recent Guests

Zohran Mamdani
Young democratic socialist politician, recently elected as New York's youngest mayor since 1892
New York State Assembly
Episode: Origin Story – Live at the Tabernacle, 13th Nov 2025
Zack Polanski
Chair of the Environment Committee at the London Assembly, prominent Green Party politician
London Assembly
Episode: Origin Story – Live at the Tabernacle, 13th Nov 2025

Hosts

Dorian Lynskey
Co-host and author, known for his insightful commentary and deep analysis of socio-political issues through the lens of history.
Ian Dunt
Co-host and columnist, recognized for his forthright perspectives on politics and society, often blending humor with incisive critique.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 2.3k ratings
  • I will say they are to compliment with things that left leaning individuals do & say, but they are kilometers better then the vast majority or that space. They have there the right to free speech & they have used exceedingly well. keep up your good work.

    Audible
    4
    Al
    United States14 days ago
  • Execrable

    Smug and Smarmy are quite the double act.

    If self-righteous, moral exhibitionism is your thing, you’ll love it!

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Aiotm
    United Kingdom16 days ago
  • So, so good, highly recommend

    The whole series is great, but Season 8, the history of socialism, is outstanding - deeply researched, rigorous & balanced perspective, superb threading together of complex stories and geographies, I’ve learned so much. Ian and Dorian are great company - deeply intelligent and gleefully sweary, carrying their committed scholarship lightly and always finding the laughs.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Pintsize Mansard
    United Kingdom20 days ago
  • Faultless

    It took me a couple of episodes but I love both these humans, their crazy laughing and majestic swearing. Oh, and the faultless analysis of politics and history. Gives me hope and optimism, thanks guys!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    cliveindy
    United Kingdom25 days ago
  • Stunningly good, & reliable too

    Just incredibly good. They’re both really good scholars & their analysis & synthesis is really sharp & also, wondrously, reliable. They are just serious thinkers. I’ve just finished the series on the history of socialism & it is superb. Absolutely marvellous.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Barbary Duck
    United Kingdom2 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Some criticisms regarding the hosts' occasional biases are noted, but overall, the feedback underscores the podcast's value in providing informed insights.
Listeners appreciate the in-depth research and well-structured narratives that enhance their understanding of complex political issues.
The hosts are praised for their dynamic rapport, creating a blend of humor and serious discussion that keeps the content engaging.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Origin Story – Live at the Tabernacle, 13th Nov 2025
Q: Where do you think pride in being English becomes unhelpful?
Pride should reflect a plurality and inclusiveness encompassing the lives of all citizens, rather than a rigid, nationalistic view that marginalizes others.
US Post-Election Live Show – Part Two
Q: Do you think the army could resist any really extreme requests that Trump could make of them, and could that be his limiting factor?
There's often a strong resistance within the military to serve an autocrat, evidenced by past behaviors of generals like John Kelly.
US Post-Election Live Show – Part Two
Q: How could you describe the way in which he could physically somehow overthrow American democracy?
The system would be exactly as we saw last time, but in four years time. Everyone's fine with democracy when they're winning, but when you're losing, that's when the problems arise.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Origin Story

What is Origin Story about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Exploring the complex narratives surrounding politically charged ideas, this podcast dissects the origins and evolution of concepts that are often misunderstood or misrepresented in modern discourse. Topics include significant political ideologies like socialism, centrism, and populism, with a focus on historical contexts that shape these ideas today. The engaging hosts employ a mix of humor and rigorous research to provide insightful commentary on today's political climate, encouraging listeners to reconsider conventional perspectives on controversial topics.

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How many listeners does Origin Story get?

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What are the audience demographics for Origin Story?

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How many subscribers and views does Origin Story have?

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Which podcasts are similar to Origin Story?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Origin Story:

1. Oh God, What Now?
2. The Bunker – News without the nonsense
3. Strong Message Here
4. Page 94: The Private Eye Podcast
5. Daily Politics from the New Statesman

How many episodes of Origin Story are there?

Origin Story launched 4 years ago and published 135 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact Origin Story?

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What guests have appeared on Origin Story?

Recent guests on Origin Story include:

1. Zohran Mamdani
2. Zack Polanski

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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