American Presidents: Totalus Rankium explores American history through its presidents. The hosts of this playful podcast are Rob and Jamie. The two Brits also play their ranking game with Roman emperors.

On the Totalus Rankium podcast, each US president receives points. The criteria are statesmanship, disgrace-gate, silver screen, and canvasability. Before awarding the points, Rob and Jamie consider the president's tenure. Each president gets a two- to three-episode miniseries.

Podcast listeners learn that John F. Kennedy's policies weren't all that sound. He owes his popularity to a great First Lady, being photogenic, and his tragic death. Richard Nixon's presidency had been exemplary until he earned the nickname "Tricky Dick." William Howard Taft's legacy would have been different if he hadn't come right after Theodore Roosevelt. George H. W. Bush wanted to continue Ronald Reagan's policies. However, he lacked the charm to lie to the people and get away with it, as his predecessor had. From George Washington to Grover Cleveland, each president receives a thorough examination. The rankings reflect that judgment.

American Presidents: Totalus Rankium is a rare combination of humor and history. The humor feels unforced. It's the product of Rob's and Jamie's delight in what they learn. Politicians often find themselves in impossible situations of their own making. That might be due to personal flaws or outright dishonesty. The distance of time allows the ridiculousness of the situation to become clear. At first glance, the podcast's ranking system is a silly gimmick. However, the hosts reveal it to be an interesting measure of a presidency.

Fans of American history may enjoy Rob's and Jamie's deep knowledge of their topic. American Presidents: Totalus Rankium is a way for listeners curious about a specific president to learn. The amount of detail paints a vivid picture of their character, including their flaws.