Beyond the Text: The Intellectual Historian's Podcast

Welcome to Beyond the Text, a podcast series dedicated to delving into intellectual history with depth and context. In a world saturated with quick takes, Beyond the Text goes the extra mile. Paying homage to Skinner's insights on the importance of context, this podcast unveils overlooked aspects of historical and intellectual narratives.

Co-hosted by Samuel Woodall and Jack Thomson, Beyond the Text explores the profound impact of thought and ideas throughout human history—forces that have driven change, shaped societies, and sparked revolutions. Beyond the mere words on the page, this podcast unravels the layers surrounding pivotal concepts and moments. Each episode meticulously examines the connections, influences, and societal currents that contribute to their evolution.

Join us on this journey to grasp the true significance of intellectual history. Whether you're an enthusiast, a curious mind, or someone intrigued by the myriad forces shaping our world, Beyond the Text provides a space for nuanced exploration. Tune in and venture beyond the surface to understand the rich tapestry of our intellectual heritage.

Samuel Woodall is a PhD candidate in Intellectual History at the University of Buckingham. He previously earned an MLitt in Intellectual History from the University of St. Andrews and a BA (Hons) in History and Politics from the University of Exeter.

Jack Thomson holds an MA in Philosophy from the University of Buckingham and brings a philosophical lens to the exploration of ideas, ensuring each discussion is both rigorous and thought-provoking.

Contributors

Co-host

Jack Thomson

Jack Thomson holds an MA in Philosophy from the University of Buckingham, where his research focused on political and moral philosophy. He brings a philosophical lens to Beyond the Text, pushing each discussion beyond historical narrative into the ideas and arguments that shaped it — testing how thinkers' logic holds up, and where it breaks down. Jack co-hosts the show alongside Samuel Woodall, and is a regular voice on solo-topic and History of Ideas Club episodes alike.

https://personandact.substack.com/

Co-host

Samuel Woodall

Samuel Woodall is a PhD candidate in Intellectual History at the University of Buckingham, researching the emergence of political faction in eighteenth-century England. He previously earned an MLitt in Intellectual History from the University of St. Andrews and a BA (Hons) in History and Politics from the University of Exeter. Samuel created Beyond the Text to pull historical ideas out of the archive and into conversation — tracing not just what thinkers argued, but why it still matters. He hosts alongside Jack Thomson.

http://www.theintellectualhistorian.com/