The Reenactor's Corner

A bi-weekly podcast on WWII reenactment, featuring Chris Schreiber, Ben Longfellow, and guests. We discuss every aspect of our unique hobby of living history.

A Fresh Approach to Public Events - Ep.156 07/12/2026

A Fresh Approach to Public Events - Ep.156 For some reenactors public events have long lost their appeal - with the same mock "battles" being played out against the same inappropriate backdrops year after year. However could a change of approach maybe help to revitalise these type of events ? In this epsiode Chris is joined by Peter Scholey of 4th Kompanie GD in the UK to discuss how to build rapport with the organisers of public events in order to refresh and improve outcomes for both reenactors and members of the public..... For more information on 4th Kompanie GD click the link below..... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/42050780

Creating a New Reenactment Group - Ep.155 06/28/2026

Creating a New Reenactment Group - Ep.155 In this episode long time contributor and friend of the podcast Ludwig Topf catches up with Chris to discuss the perils and possibilities associated with creating a new reenactment unit. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/41855220

Soldbuch Deep Dive - Ep.154 06/09/2026

Soldbuch Deep Dive - Ep.154 It is estimated that over 17 million Soldbuch identity documents were issued during World War Two and surviving examples often provide valuable insight into the everyday lives of those who served within the German military, including what uniforms and equipment they were issued. In this episode Chris goes on a deep dive into the world of these documents and explains how information gleaned from originals can be extraordinarily helpful when putting together a reenactment impression. As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/41592315

Reenacting in Japan - Ep.153 05/10/2026

Reenacting in Japan - Ep.153 Although the majority of WW2 reenactors are based in North America and Europe the hobby has members all over the world. In this epsiode Chris talks to James Fortner, who is originally from the United States but now lives in Japan - where he is a member of several reenacting groups that portray both Allied and Axis powers during World War Two. Given Japan's sometimes complex relationship with recollections of the conflict James shares his own unique perspective with Chris . To find out more about reenacting in Japan you can follow James on X (Twitter) @rat_master792 or contact him via Facebook As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/41241290

The Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen) - Ep.152 04/13/2026

The Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen) - Ep.152 The Wound Badge (Verwundetenabzeichen ) was one of the most issued German military awards during World War Two. Around five million were awarded during the conflict and, as a result, originals often come up for sale on the collectors market. Price depends on the grade of the award (black,silver or gold) and manufacturer. In this epsiode guest host Rudi Lange walks through the history of the Verwundetenabzeichen and the different issue criteria required for each grade - plus shares listeners stories and comments on how the award is used within reenacting. As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/40824425

Using Original Photos as a Resource - Ep.151 03/29/2026

Using Original Photos as a Resource - Ep.151 Ever since the American Civil War photography has played an important role in recording the realities of war. Whether posed propaganda photographs, combat reportage or candid shots of life behind the lines this kind of material can be a priceless resource when building your reenacting impression. In this episode Chris gives his hints and tips on how to use original photogtraphs to their best advantage and highlights some of the pitfalls when searching for the most useful images..... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/40655515

Keeping Costs Down - Ep.150 03/14/2026

Keeping Costs Down - Ep.150 Current events in the Middle East are already having a knock on effect for many at home as fuel costs rise - potentially impacting members of the hobby who are already operating on a tight budget. In this episode Chris discusses ways to help reduce the costs associated with World War Two reenacting..... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content and more for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/40475605

Feldpost Feedback on the Last Episode - Ep.150 03/02/2026

Feldpost Feedback on the Last Episode - Ep.150 Our last episode, which focused on the topic of finding an appropriate role within the hobby as we grow older, certainly generated alot of feedback from our listeners. In this episode guest host Rudi Lange shares his thoughts on what some of our listeners had to say....... /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/40274960

Acting Your Age ? - Ep.149 02/14/2026

Acting Your Age ? - Ep.149 During World War Two the average age of soldiers serving in the German Army was around 25 years old. Reenactors, however, come in all ages from those who are still in their teens to some who are still actively involved in living history well into their 60s and 70s.... In this episode our guest host Rudi Lange talks with Josef Brandt, a fellow member of 7kp GD, who has been reenacting since 1983. He shares his memories of the early days of German Reenacting and explains why he thinks that advancing years should not be a reason to give up the hobby...... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/40110015

Hurray for Hollywood - Ep.148 01/31/2026

Hurray for Hollywood - Ep.148 World War Two has long been the backdrop for many Hollywood films - meaning that reenactors can sometimes offer their servives to film makers and be employed as extras. In this episode Chris recounts his experiences portraying a German soldier in the 2010 movie Shutter Island - alongside several other members of his reenactment group and Leonardo DiCaprio................. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39945165

Fort Indiantown Gap - Ep.147 01/16/2026

Fort Indiantown Gap - Ep.147 This January marks eight years since the last Fort Indiantown Gap.... For many reenactors who attended over the years it's been hard to find another event that compares - whilst for some of those who didn't attend, the annual reenactment in Pennsylvania has achieved almost mythical status. By the time the event closed in 2018 Chris had been taking part for almost 20 years and in this episode he shares his memories of what made Gap so special - and how it changed over the years....... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39764810

2025 Review - Ep.146 01/01/2026

2025 Review - Ep.146 Join Chris and podcast regulars Rudi Lange and Ludwig Topf as they look back at WW2 German reenacting in 2025 and share their predictions for what the New Year has in store for the world of living history... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39586360

WW2 German Identity Disc Deep Dive - Ep.145 12/20/2025

WW2 German Identity Disc Deep Dive - Ep.145 It is estimated that over 18 milion identity discs (Erkennungsmarken) were stamped and issued by the German Armed Forces in World War Two. It's unique design, with a perforated centre and identitical details on each half, carried no name but instead a unit designation and numbers that would identity the soldier when cross-referenced with official records. In this epsiode Chris goes on a deep dive into the world of Erkennungsmarken from both a reenacting and collecting perspective and explains why he doesn't deal in battlefield relic identity discs...... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39479000

Higher Import Costs for US Reenactors - Ep.144 12/05/2025

Higher Import Costs for US Reenactors - Ep.144 The ability to source both original and reproduction items from overseas is an important part of the hobby for many reenactors - however recent changes in the United States mean that buying from Europe , or any other part of the world , has become more problematic....and expensive. At the end of August 2025 the Trump Administration removed the long-standing "de minimus" arrangement whereby non-commercial imports under the value of $800 usually had all duties and tariffs waived. This move sent shock waves not only through many in the reenacting community in America but also amongst overseas vendors and suppliers who regularly sell to US-based customers. In this episode Chris talks to Adrian from Epic Militaria in the UK about the impact that the changes have had on their business and how they are helping US-based customers navigate the situation..... As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39304010

Picturing the Past - Ep.143 11/14/2025

Picturing the Past - Ep.143 For many reenactors using a vintage camera loaded with film is the best way to capture images at an event - they provide a more authentic and tangible record than their digital counterpart and having only 12 or 36 shots available per roll of film really focuses the mind when it comes to subject matter and composition . In this episode Chris talks to Vijay, a WW2 reenactor from Chicago who has combined his passions for both vintage photography and living history and, as a result, is making a well deserved name for himself within the hobby thanks to the quality of his images. You can view many of Vijay's stunning photographs by checking him out on Instagram... @escshift01 As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/39042045

Horrors of Reenacting 2025 - Ep.142 10/30/2025

Horrors of Reenacting 2025 - Ep.142 Ever since our first Halloween Special way back in 2019 every year we've brought you a selection of our listeners spookiest stories . From late night encounters with spectoral sentries or enemy combatants to original items in your collections that maintain a malevolent aura long after World War Two. This year the story submissions were more spine-chilling than ever - so sit back, lock the doors and prepare to be spooked.............. As ever, a very big thank you to everyone that supports the Podcast via Patreon - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content for as little as $5 a month. Thank you again everyone. /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/38852525

Ludwig Switches Sides for the Weekend - Ep.141 10/10/2025

Ludwig Switches Sides for the Weekend - Ep.141 In this episode UK based reenactor and long time friend of the show Ludwig Topf tells Chris about the events that he has attended this summer - including one organised by the "We Have Ways" WW2 history podcast where he swapped his regular German uniform for a British one for the weekend and had a vigorous exchange of views with comedian and podcast host Al Murray in the beer tent..... As ever, a very big thank you to all our Patrons for their support - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/38545825

Why is Fall the Best Season to Reenact ? - Ep.140 09/26/2025

Why is Fall the Best Season to Reenact ? - Ep.140 As temperatures drop and the days get shorter across North America and Europe here is another chance to hear an epsiode originally recorded back in October 2022 when Chris and Ben Tracey discussed why Fall is, in their opinion, perhaps the best time of the year to reenact WW2 in the field. Let us know if you agree ? As ever, a very big thank you to all our Patrons for their support - we really couldn't do this without you ! Why not sign up and become one of our growing band of supporters with access to all of our Patreon exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/38373810

Too Soon to Reenact the Vietnam War ?...........Ep.139 09/11/2025

Too Soon to Reenact the Vietnam War ?...........Ep.139 At the age of just 31 Gunter Rapp already has 20 year of reenacting under his belt. Starting out with Colonial Period living history at 11 years of age he then moved onto American Civil War and was for a long time a well known face amongst East Coast German Reenactors too. Now based in California he joins Chris to talk about what it was like to be a part of the hobby at such a young age, how he has got into the militaria business and predicts that the Vietnam War could be the next big development within reenacting..... /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/38074905

Assault and Close Combat Awards - Ep.137 08/15/2025

Assault and Close Combat Awards - Ep.137 The wearing of Medals and Awards is often a hot button topic amongst reenactors. In this, the latest in his series of deep dives, Rudi Lange looks at Assault and Close Combat Awards and tackles the thorny question of if they should be worn within the hobby. The book that Rudi references and recommends towards the end of the episode is... "The Face of Courage : The 98 Men Who Recieved the Knight's Cross and the Close-Combat Clasp in Gold" (Stackpole Military History) A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/37842895

Creating Constructive Relationships with Allied Units - Ep.135 08/01/2025

Creating Constructive Relationships with Allied Units - Ep.135 In this episode Chris is joined by Adam Bednar from 5.Kp GD and Casey Sill from Fox Company, 101 Airborne to talk about a new late war event taking place in Iowa in October and how creating constructive dialogue and collaboration with Allied units leads to better outcomes at events. For more information on the Iowa event please visit the link below.... A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/37644120

Reflections on Reenacting - Ep.134 07/18/2025

Reflections on Reenacting - Ep.134 Christopher Smead from Missouri, is now in his 42nd year of reenacting and first attended Weldon Springs way back in 1983. Thanks to a reenacting career that has spanned British , Russian, German and even Japanese Christopher has a unique perspective on the hobby and we know you are going to enjoy his take on how some things have changed, whilst others have stayed the same …. A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/37463075

New Prohibited Symbols Law in Australia - Ep.133 06/27/2025

New Prohibited Symbols Law in Australia - Ep.133 In 2024 Australia introduced a new Prohibited Symbols Act which includes a ban on the public display, sale and trade of original or reproduction items which carry the Hakenkreuz or SS runes. There are exemptions in place if the items are used for "educational, artistic, academic or scientific purposes" but the wording of the legislation is vague - leaving Australian reenactors in a difficult position. In this episode Chris talks to Craig, a long time reenactor from Australia, about the impact that the new law is having on the hobby there. For more information on Craig's unit please click the link below.... A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/37199015

France 1940 Event - Ep.132 06/13/2025

France 1940 Event - Ep.132 Last year we previewed a new event planned for 2025 that focused on France in Summer 1940. In this episode Chris catches up with Dylan Williams to hear how the event went and whether it is set to become a regular fixture in the Mid-West reenacting calendar. For more details on the Fall Gelb event please follow the link below A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content! Read More /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/37008005

Travel - Ep.131 05/31/2025

Travel - Ep.131 They say that travel broadens the mind but does it also bring another dimension to reenacting? In this episode Chris talks about how, for him, trips to Europe are not just about visiting historic sites and former battlefields - they are about searching out or experiencing at random the very essence of a place and the part it played in the Second World War , from the awe inspiring to the mundane......all of which you can use to enhance your reenacting when you return home. A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/36798455

Monty's Men 2025 - Ep.130 05/16/2025

Monty's Men 2025 - Ep.130 Monty's Men is a reenactment event that takes place every two years and aims to portray the closing days of World War Two in Europe. This year the event took place in the Netherlands and podcast regular Ludwig Topf attended. In this episode he talks to Chris about how the event went and shares his thoughts on whether the correct balance between a convincing lived experience and a combat or tactical scenario can ever be achieved....... A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/36599495

The Iron Cross - Ep.129 05/03/2025

The Iron Cross - Ep.129 The Eisernes Kreuz (Iron Cross) is perhaps the most iconic of all historical German military awards . During World War Two almost five million were issued in recognition of bravery in battle or distinguished military service. In this latest of our occasional series looking at WW2 German military awards Rudi Lange takes a closer look at the history of the Iron Cross and reflects on if and how it should be used within reenacting...... With thanks to Also a big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/36420305

Commitment issues .... - Ep.128 04/17/2025

Commitment issues .... - Ep.128 Reenacting is a hobby best enjoyed as part of a group - however work, family and other commitments often have to come first. So its no surprise that low attendence is a constant fear for many event organisers. In this episode Chris shares his tips and tricks on how to motivate your unit members to find the time to show up at events...... A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/36214495

When Less is More - Ep.127 04/04/2025

When Less is More - Ep.127 Reenacting is a hobby that often encourages the aquistition of more and more kit in an effort to enhance the experience. However, in this episode Chris asks if authenticty takes a hit when your amount of gear starts to get out of control... A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/36007870

The War Merit Cross - Ep.126 03/21/2025

The War Merit Cross - Ep.126 In this first of an occasional series looking at medals issued by Germany during the Second World War Rudi Lange takes a deep dive look at the Kriegsverdienstkreuz (War Medal Cross) - which was awarded to both serving members of the military and civilians engaged in outstanding contributions to the war effort. With thanks to A big thank you to everyone who supports the podcast via Patreon - we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small, and your regular contributions really do keep the show on the air. You can sign up for as little as $5 a month to unlock regular exclusive content ! /episode/index/show/thereenactorscorner/id/35817265

The Reenactor's Corner

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