Unearth the Past: A family history & genealogy podcast

• S3 Ep10: From Moradabad to Merseyside: Unearthing the past with pop icon Holly Johnson

  Send us a textWhen Holly Johnson's voice first electrified the airwaves with Frankie Goes to Hollywood in the 1980s, few could have imagined the rich ancestral tapestry behind the man who urged us all to "Relax." Stepping away from his musical legacy, Holly joins us to unravel a family history that spans continents, military service, and unexpected cultural connections.Growing up in Liverpool – a city he describes as essentially "the capital of Ireland" – Holly's early years were shaped by sectarian divisions and The Beatles' omnipresent influence. The proximity to musical greatness made success seem achievable for a local lad with ambitions beyond Liverpool's docklands.Most surprising is Holly's significant connection to India, discovered through multiple generations of military service. His great-grandfather John Joseph McLaughlin met and married Eurasian Kathleen Mary Maguire while stationed with the South Lancashire Regiment in India. Their son – Holly's grandfather – was born in Jubalpur, creating a direct link to the subcontinent that explains the 4% Asian DNA Holly had previously discovered through Ancestry testing.The journey follows Holly's maternal grandmother's heartbreaking childhood in a Catholic orphanage after her Royal Navy father died of pneumonia, leaving four children separated across different institutions. Meanwhile, his paternal grandfather survived being gassed and shot during WWI before becoming a pharmacist.For music fans and family history enthusiasts alike, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how our past shapes our present, even when those connections remain hidden for generations. Listen now to discover the unexpected roots of one of Britain's most distinctive musical voices.Useful linksMichala HulmeHolly JohnsonSupport the show

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• S3 Ep9: A Taskmaster, a Knackerman and an Architect: Unearthing the Past with YouTuber Zac Alsop

  Send us a textWhat happens when a modern-day rule-breaker and internet sensation uncovers his deep-rooted past? In this episode of Unearth the Past, host Dr Michala Hulme takes Zac Alsop—YouTuber, master of infiltration, and storytelling genius—on an unexpected journey into his own family history.From Derbyshire railway workers and architects shaping Manchester to a tragic naval disaster and a mysterious death after a pub night gone wrong, Zac’s family story is anything but ordinary. But will he embrace his true Northern roots? And could history inspire his next viral adventure?🎧 Tune in now for an unforgettable mix of history, mystery, and discovery!Useful LinksMichala HulmeZac Alsop Support the show

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• S3 Ep8: Finding May's Mum: Unearthing the Past with PR Pioneer Lisa Morton

  Send us a textIn this episode of Unearthed Past, historian and genealogist Dr. Michala Hume sits down with Lisa Morton, founder of the award-winning PR agency Roland Dransfield and host of We Built This City. Lisa shares her deep connection to Manchester and Salford, reflecting on her childhood, her entrepreneurial journey, and the stories that shaped her family. But this time, the tables are turned as Dr. Hume uncovers Lisa’s hidden family history, revealing incredible tales of resilience, migration, and even Mormon pioneers who crossed America in search of a better life. From Salford’s tight-knit communities to Utah’s rugged landscapes, this episode is a fascinating journey through the past that will leave you wondering about your own family’s untold stories.Tune in for a captivating blend of history, genealogy, and personal discovery, packed with surprises and emotional revelations.Useful LinksMichala HulmeLisa MortonRoland Dransfield Support the show

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• S3 Ep7: A lot of Darwen and a tiny bit of Corfu: Unearthing the Past with Adidas Spezial's Gary Aspden

  Send us a textFashion aficionados and history buffs alike, get ready to be inspired by the compelling journey of Gary Aspden, the creative force behind Adidas Spezial. Known for redefining contemporary sportswear, Gary takes us on a heartfelt journey through his deep connections to community, identity, and storytelling. In true Gary Aspden style, he reflects on how his upbringing in Darwen and Blackburn influenced his love for style, from childhood memories of hand-me-down toys to his first real awakening to fashion at a local disco. These moments laid the foundation for his ability to tell authentic stories through his iconic designs.With humour, heart, and fascinating historical insights, this episode promises to resonate with anyone who’s ever wondered how their roots shape their identity. Whether you’re a genealogy enthusiast or a fan of Gary’s groundbreaking work in fashion, this conversation offers something for everyone.Tune in for an unforgettable journey into the past with one of the coolest figures in fashion—and find out why Darwen might just be your next must-visit destination. Useful LinksMichala HulmeGary AspdenSupport the show

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• S3 Ep6: Adoption, Fish & Manchester's "Fagan":Unearthing the Past with podcast host Ian Beighton

  Send us a textIn this deeply moving episode of Unearth the Past, Dr. Michala Hume is joined by Ian Beighton, host of So, Whats Your Story? podcast. This time, however, Ian is in the hot seat as Michala unravels the mystery of his biological family tree—a story he’s been curious about his entire life.Ian shares his adoption journey, reflecting on the love of his adoptive mother and his suppressed yearning to understand his origins. With humour, anxiety, and raw emotion, Ian discovers a tapestry of ancestors that includes courageous war heroes, industrious salesmen, skilled athletes, and even a "Manchester Fagin" who once led a ring of thieves. Through a blend of historical records, DNA results, and touching personal anecdotes, Michala introduces Ian to his biological roots, painting a vivid picture of the lives that came before him.Listeners will hear Ian’s reactions as he uncovers his great-grandfather’s bravery during WWI, and sees photos of his biological parents for the first time. Michala’s meticulous research and storytelling breathe life into long-lost relatives and forgotten family narratives, offering Ian—and the audience—a profound sense of connection and belonging.This episode is a beautiful exploration of identity, resilience, and the enduring impact of family stories. Whether you’re passionate about genealogy or adoption or simply love a tale that tugs at the heartstrings, this is an episode not to miss.Useful links Dr Michala HulmeSo, Whats Your Story...Power of One Support the show

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