Dan Carlin

Owner, Orator LLC

Dan Carlin, born on November 14, 1965, is an influential American podcaster and political commentator, recognized for his engaging storytelling and deep dives into historical topics. He is the owner of Orator LLC and hosts several popular podcasts, including Hardcore History, Hardcore History: Addendum, and Common Sense. His work has garnered numerous accolades, establishing him as a prominent figure in the podcasting landscape.

Background

Carlin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Colorado Boulder. He began his career in the late 1980s as a television news reporter in Los Angeles, notably covering the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Over the years, he has transitioned through various media roles including radio talk show host and columnist, ultimately finding success in podcasting.1 2

Podcasts

Hardcore History:: Launched in 2005, this podcast has gained immense popularity for its unique format and depth of content, often featuring episodes that span several hours. Carlin's narrative style combines historical facts with dramatic storytelling, making complex topics accessible and engaging. The podcast has received millions of downloads per episode and is frequently cited among the best podcasts of all time.1 2

Common Sense:: This podcast offers Carlin's independent perspective on current political events. He describes his political philosophy as "neoprudentist," advocating for a skeptical examination of contemporary issues while fostering thoughtful discussions through hypothetical scenarios.1 4

Achievements

Carlin's contributions to podcasting have earned him several awards, including recognition as one of the best educational and history podcasts. His episode "Ghosts of the Ostfront" was ranked among the top podcasts of all time by Slate in 2019.1 2

Personal Life

Carlin is the son of Academy Award-nominated actress Lynn Carlin and film producer Ed Carlin. He resides in Eugene, Oregon, where he continues to produce content that challenges listeners to think critically about history and politics.1 3