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Our American Stories
Lee Habeeb
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Date Show Title
Feb
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tim McCoy was a major film star most noted for his roles in Western films. He was so popular with youngsters as a cowboy star that he appeared on the cover of Wheaties cereal boxes. As part of our ongoing 'Hollywood Goes to War' series, Roger McGrath shares the story of his acts of service overseas.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Paul Monti was able to keep - and drive - a meaningful memorial of his son Jared, who was killed in action defending his comrades. Here's Paul—and our own Lee Habeeb—with the story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, “Genius,” wrote poet Charles Baudelaire, “is only childhood recalled at will.” Few people have given more credence to this notion than Maurice Sendak, who was—in the words of The New York Times—“widely considered to be the most important children’s book artist of the 20th century.” Here’s Greg Hengler with the story of children's book author and illustrator, Maurice Sendak. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, she was the youngest person ever to be featured on the cover of Entrepreneur magazine. Alina Morse, CEO of Zolli Candy, is here to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ford's Theater reenactor Mike Robinson tells the full unknown story through the eyes of A.C. Richards, Washington's Superintendent of Police. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Scot Bertram and Christian Schneider of the podcast Wasn't That Special: 50 Years of SNL tell the story of how a reserved Canadian and a rag-tag group of unknown comedians from across the country created one of the longest-lasting and most important shows of all time.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
5
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, for generations, students in American elementary schools were taught Christopher Columbus “sailed the ocean blue” to discover America in 1492. Today, that lesson is changing in schools across the suburbs and country. Here to tell the story of Christopher Columbus is Laurence Bergreen, who wrote the definitive biography Columbus: The Four Voyages. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
5
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, you've heard that you, "Don't Mess with Texas." This story from our regular listener/contributor Roger Latham, from Fort Worth, Texas, exemplifies that statement. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
5
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, our host, Lee Habeeb shares the story behind the story of Lincoln's most important words—the Gettysburg Address. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
5
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, in our 33rd episode of "The Story of America" series, Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope, tells the story of what happened after the guns fell silent across America following our deadliest man-made disaster to date—the Civil War—and how despite massive gains in bringing "liberty and justice to all", not all was well in transforming and healing the nation. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
5
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, A listener, Paul Bauer, tells the story of his prayer to be as tall as his very big brother, "Moose." Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
4
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jim Johnson, a listener of Our American Stories from Minnesota, tells the story of when he sold hotdogs for the Minnesota Twins as a young boy.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
4
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, following the Charles Manson murders, Manson's lead henchman, Tex Watson, stayed in Los Angeles for almost two months before fleeing to Texas where he was arrested. But it’s those two months following the Manson murders, where this story from our listener (Patty Kingsbaker) picks up. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
4
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Rod Serling was the most prestigious writer in American television. As creator, host, and primary writer for The Twilight Zone, Serling became something more: an American icon. Here to tell the story is Nick Parisi, author of Rod Serling: His Life, Work, and Imagination. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
4
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story is about a 17-year-old kid named Bob Heft who designed the 50-star American flag we fly proudly to this very day!  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, we talk to author and journalist James Maguire on everything from Ed Sullivan's early child to the legacy he left. It's a deep dive into the pursuit and price of fame.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, experience the gripping drama of the front lines as a valiant pigeon becomes the last hope to stop a brutal friendly-fire barrage! Historian Frank Blazich, from the National Museum of American History, shares the story of the use of homing pigeons during WWI. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feb
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, John O'Leary, the bestselling author of On Fire tells the story of why his mother forced him to eat on his own and play the piano despite having no fingers after having been burned on 100% of his body as a nine-year-old. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
31
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, ...and then running her own business and helping others find work! Suazo Center founder Gladys Gonzalez shares how her American Dream began by losing her job running banks in Colombia to cleaning floors in America! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
31
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Baseball Leagues Museum, tells the story of a man who started in Kansas City, made his way to Brooklyn, and swept across the nation. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
31
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, for nearly fifty years, Josephine Earp was married to the most famous lawman of the Old West, Wyatt Earp. Ann Kirschner, author of Lady at the O.K Corral: The True Story of Josephine Marcus Earp, is here to tell her story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
31
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, John O'Leary is the bestselling author of On Fire. Today he shares the story of how after being burnt on nearly 100% of his body, faith, family, and a hall-of-fame radio broadcaster named Jack Buck got him through some of the darkest times in his life when he was only nine years old. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
31
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Scott Jones, author of Growing Up Rural, shares the story of one of the most embarrassing moments of his time in elementary school, and the lessons he learned from it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
30
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, ...as if spending the night in a funeral parlor wasn't scary enough! Our American Stories listener Tom Ryan brings us a chilling tale from the family funeral parlor. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
30
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, long before NASCAR’s rampant commercialism lurks a not-so-distant history that has been carefully hidden from view—until now. Here to tell the true story behind NASCAR’s hardscrabble, moonshine-fueled origins is Neal Thompson, author of Driving with the Devil: Southern Moonshine, Detroit Wheels, and the Birth of NASCAR. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
30
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Danny Elfman came to prominence as the lead vocalist and songwriter for the new wave band Oingo Boingo in the early 1980s —as seen in the Rodney Dangerfield comedy, Back to School. Since scoring his first studio film in 1985, Elfman has composed over 100 feature film scores like Batman, Beetlejuice, Men in Black, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Good Will Hunting—to name just a few, as well as compositions for television like The Simpsons, stage productions, and concert halls. Here to share his story is the man himself, Danny Elfman. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
30
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Daryn Glassbrook of the Mobile Medical Museum in Mobile, Alabama tells the story of the iron lung, an antiquated device used to keep people with advanced polio alive in the first half of the 20th century.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
29
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thomas Jefferson was known for championing religious freedom in our nation's infancy—but not many people know the story of how a preacher thanked him for this in the most unusual way...gifting him a giant block of cheese.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
29
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dwayne's Photo in Parson's, Kansas is truly a family affair, and for a while, it was an extraordinarily rare family affair...so rare that people from across the globe rushed there to get their Kodachrome photos processed before the last chemicals in the world required to do it ran out. Here's the family with the story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
29
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, that old windmill on the side of the highway might be fun to look at, but without it, the great westward expansion would have been nearly impossible. Jessie Edwards shares the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
29
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Hillsdale professor Kelly Scott Franklin tells the story of how one of America's foremost literary figures was a volunteer on both sides of our nation's Civil War. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
29
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, her parents were poor Jewish immigrants and she was raised by her sister—spending her most developmental years behind a deli counter. Eventually, she'd marry a toy designer, change his name, and bet all of her company's money on an idea: that little girls just wanted to play with big girls. Robin Gerber, author of Barbie and Ruth tells the story of Ruth Handler—the creator of the Barbie Doll. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
28
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1943 a quiet stretch of farmland in Tennessee transformed into a bustling secret city of 75,000 people on a mission to build the most powerful weapon known to man—the atomic bomb. Richard Cook tells the extraordinary story of Oak Ridge—the birthplace of the Manhattan Project...and how one man, Ed Westcott, captured this hidden world with his camera.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
28
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Davis, author of Hammer of the Gods, and Kirby Furgeson of the podcast "Everything a Remix" tell the story of how Led Zeppelin found themselves in a courtroom over a few of their songs...and why there are so many "copycats" and so-called "rip-offs" in the music industry. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
28
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Michael Schlitz enlisted in March 1996 and served in several positions including Rifleman and Platoon Sergeant. While in Baghdad, Iraq on February 27, 2007, Mike and his crew were on a road-clearing mission when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED). Here's his story of tragedy—and overcoming.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
27
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, while the men served in WWII, women also served by filling the spots in factories that men left behind. Unmatched in their value, these women provided an essential service that would help bring us to victory and make America the most powerful country in the world. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
27
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Jackson's inauguration says a lot about what he represented at the time to many—a changing of the guard from the established Virginian 'elite' to the rough and tumble of the frontier, and his party afterward certainly drove that point home...literally. Here's the story!  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
27
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, on October 3, 1955, a television program debuted that would eventually produce nearly nine thousand shows over 40 years. Here’s the History Guy with the story of Captain Kangaroo. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
27
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the Bible's role in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story in our '100 Bible Verses that Changed America' series, is Robert Morgan.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
24
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, our regular contributor Jay Moore tells the story of an ordinary man he considers his personal hero—Dennis Holt. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
24
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, General Colin Powell was the youngest and the nation's first black Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest position in the US Military. He was also the first black man appointed Secretary of State, the world's leading diplomat. To friends and family, he was so much more. Leslie Lautenslager, the author of My Time with General Colin Powell: Stories of Kindness, Diplomacy, and Protocol, shares his remarkable story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
24
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
24
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mario Andretti shares how his family lost everything in WWII, came to America, and how he then launched his career as the greatest auto racer in history! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
23
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, next we have a story about one of the biggest scandals in college basketball history and one of its biggest turnarounds. Here to tell the story is one of the members of that Baylor basketball team, Matt Sayman, author of The Leftovers: Baylor, Betrayal, and Beyond. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
23
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Boston’s Fort Warren housed Confederate POWs during the Civil War, but it was no Andersonville. Only 13 Confederate prisoners out of the more than 2,000 rebels who were imprisoned within its walls died during the Civil War. That was largely thanks to the fort’s commander, Justin Dimick. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
23
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the 11th hour of the 11th month of the 11th day in 1918, all guns fell silent across Europe...16.1 million people across the world lay dead—but who was the last to fall in battle? Craig Du Mez of the Grateful Nation Project tells the story of Henry Gunther, the last man to die in WWI. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
23
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, the "Nostalgia Awakens" is a Star Wars action figure exhibit from enthusiast and museum curator Jarrod Roll. He's here to share how Star Wars toys revolutionized movie merchandising, licensing, and even how children play. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
22
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, as the great-granddaughter of Booker T. Washington, the former slave-turned-famous educator, and founder of Tuskegee University, Sarah Washington O’Neal Rush has been influenced by her great-grandfather’s rise above slavery, his relentless stand on inner strength, and his principles on personal development. Here she is to tell her story (from her book Rising Up From the Ashes), and her great grandfather’s. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
22
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Rich Wingo shares the story of how his time under the legendary Alabama coach refashioned his character, and how his time with the Green Bay Packers redefined his faith.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
22
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, during some of the tensest moments of the Cold War, President Kennedy on July 4th, 1962, visited Independence Hall to give a motivating speech highlighting the importance of democracy and free enterprise around the world. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
22
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Gina Ramsey tells the story of the highs—and lows—of managing her father's dementia...and tells the story of his nursing home bond with a 100-year-old woman. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
22
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Randall Wallace is the writer/director of films such as "Braveheart", "We Were Soldiers", "The Man in the Iron Mask", "Heaven is For Real", "Pearl Harbor", and "Secretariat"—movies rooted in courage, sacrifice, and faith. These traits embodied Randall’s father. Here’s Randall himself to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
21
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, The Civil War was over, the city of Washington was in celebration and President Lincoln's life was about to take a happy and hopeful turn. His short, happy life was thwarted by John Wilkes Booth. Lee Habeeb tells the story live you've never heard it told before.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
21
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, he was so good that he got both the Union and the Confederate presidents to pardon him; yet, so bad that an NYC woman offered a $50k reward to find him—dead or alive. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
21
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Karl Marlantes, author of What It Is Like to Go to War and Matterhorn, tells the story of salmon fishing with his grandfather during his formative years in the small town of Seaside, Oregon. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
21
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, African Americans could be running backs, wide receivers, linebackers...but in the eyes of many coaches and team owners not quarterbacks—that was a "thinking man's" position. John Eisenberg, author of Rocketmen: The Black Quarterbacks Who Revolutionized Pro Football tells the story of how Doug Williams—put that racist notion to rest once and for all in 1989 with the Redskin's victory over the Elway-led Denver Broncos.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
21
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Samuel Bellamy was a pirate who operated off the coast of New England and throughout the Caribbean. Later known as "Black Sam,” he became one of the wealthiest pirates before his untimely death in 1717. Here to tell the story, is Ashley Hlebinsky. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
20
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, while Henry Ford didn't invent the automobile, he fundamentally changed the world's relationship with the automobile to what it is today. Here's the story of the man who claimed to have invented the modern age. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
20
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, America’s fascination with mob boss Al Capone is a century old. Here to tell his story is the biographer of the definitive work on Al Capone—Laurence Bergreen.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
20
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Richmond, VA radio host Jeff Katz shares a note that his daughter won't ever read, but will surely impact your life for the better Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
17
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, born on the land of the former plantation where her parents were enslaved, Madam C.J. Walker married young, had a child young, became a widow young, and got a divorce young. She also created, out of necessity, a revolutionary hair care product that changed the world, and her life. Here's her great-great-great-granddaughter, A'lelia Bundles, with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
17
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, King George III, upon hearing that George Washington planned to resign from his military commission and return to his plow stated; "If he does that, he will be the greatest man in the world." George Washington wasn't the first man to do this though—he was simply following in the footsteps of another farmer, statesman, and victorious general from ancient Rome—Cincinnatus. Here's Professor Kenneth Calvert of Hillsdale College to tell the story of how these two men connect and why Cincinnati is named in honor of both of them. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
17
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Francis “Frank” Scott Key was not someone you would have picked to write our national anthem… but he did...right after one of America’s great military victories. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
17
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, the story of the woman who said "no" to giving up her seat on a segregated Alabama bus is widely known. But here to tell the raw, real story, is Rosa Parks herself. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
16
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, born in Australia, Tommy Emmanuel fell in love with American country guitar legend, Chet Atkins. The rest, as they say, is history—Tommy explains. We'll be playing his music throughout this story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
16
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dietrich Bonhoeffer left the safety of American soil to oppose Hitler—at any cost. Eric Metaxas, the New York Times best-selling author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy joins us to tell Bonhoeffer's remarkable life story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
16
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, during this week in 1967, the Green Bay Packers won the first NFL-AFL championship game (now called the Superbowl) under head coach Vince Lombardi. More than any other sports figure, Vince Lombardi transformed football into a metaphor for the American experience. Our guest David Maraniss (author of When Pride Still Mattered), captures all of Lombardi: the myth, the man, his game, and his God. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, a funeral service was held on Nov. 5, 2021, for General Colin Powell at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Powell died from COVID-19 complications amid an ongoing battle with cancer. He was 84. Here’s his son Michael speaking at his father’s funeral service. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Chef “Hector” Boiardi was just 16 when he arrived at Ellis Island. What happens after his landing is remarkable! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, America’s Cup winner and entrepreneur Bill Koch tells the story of the intersection of America’s history with his own family’s. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, he was a sax player for one of the world's great touring bands, The Marcus King Band. But he was called to do something different. Something that could allow him to pursue his own musical and creative ambitions. Many artists go by one name: Bono, Sting, Madonna, and Prince, to name a few. Here's Saxsquatch with his story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy shares the story about an escape attempt in the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary in San Francisco, California, that led to a standoff. The penitentiary the inmates called "the Rock,” was supposed to be escape-proof, but that did not keep some prisoners from trying. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Abraham Lincoln is often referred to as "the Great Emancipator"... but that's not the entire truth. Our regular contributor Jon Elfner and Dr. Kate Masur, author of "Until Justice Be Done," tell the rest of the story that begins with three runaway slaves. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
15
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, she had no idea that her customer on that fateful day was the Panamanian dictator's daughter. Joe Garmen, founder of ARM Prison Ministries, tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
14
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, taking an interesting twist on our “Rule of Law” series, Christopher Warren shares the history of the U.S. Postal Service and a time when people mailed their children… and in one instance, an entire bank. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
14
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, 100 years before Rosa Parks refused to leave her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Elizabeth Jennings refused to leave hers in New York City. Jerry Mikorenda, author of America's First Freedom Rider, tells the remarkable story of the event desegregating NYC transportation before the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the abolition of slavery. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
14
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ed Sykes tells the remarkable story of his unbreakable bond with his compatriot Dave Dinan and the unrelenting and ultimately successful task of recovering his remains from the jungles of Vietnam.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
13
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, in six hours, Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez saved 8-plus men while enduring 7 major gunshot wounds, 28 shrapnel wounds, and major bayonet slash wounds. Hear his Medal of Honor story from President Reagan and the man himself. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
13
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, historian David McCullough brings generational talent to those studying the wild realities of America's independence. After all, no one has ever lived in the past, but in the present. At the National Archive, McCullough names and thanks his own teachers, and hands down the important right way to teach and study our history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
13
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, just moments before the biggest fireworks display in American history, President Ronald Reagan spoke in front of the Statue of Liberty aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. Reagan understood the profound nature of what the founders did back in 1776. We take you back to New York Harbor in 1986. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
13
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, ...and a reflection on the sparrow she tried to kill for tapping on her window. Our American Stories' regular contributor Leslie Leyland Fields, tells this heartwarming story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
10
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, John Moses Browning invented the mechanism used in virtually all modern pistols, created the most popular hunting rifles and shotguns, and conceived the machine guns introduced in World War I. Here's his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
10
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
10
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, in the 1964 World Series the St. Louis Cardinals played the mighty NY Yankees. On the pitcher's mound for the Cardinals was Bob Gibson and his catcher was Tim McCarver. Here's Jeff Bloodworth, a professor of American history at Gannon University and a Jack Miller Center fellow, with the story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
10
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, on February 3rd, 1943 the USS Dorchester sank into the icy waters of the North Atlantic within 20 minutes—it was the single deadliest loss of American troops in a convoy in our nation's history. But in this tragedy, there was also heroism and selfless acts of faith. Craig Du Mez of the Grateful Nation Project tells the story of four chaplains of different faiths who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
10
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, the "Nostalgia Awakens" is a Star Wars action figure exhibit from enthusiast and museum curator Jarrod Roll. He's here to share the story of how Star Wars toys revolutionized movie merchandising, licensing, and even how children play. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
9
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, since the company’s inception in 2005, Liquid Ass has been a popular product amongst pranksters across the world. The two-pack on Amazon currently has an unprecedented 36,000-plus reviews with a 4 1/2-star rating! [BTW: Read the ratings if you want a good laugh.] So who goes about creating such a spray? Well, a teenager, obviously. Here to tell the story are the co-founders of Liquid Assets, Andrew Masters and Allen Wittman. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
9
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, a mass shooting took place on November 7, 2018, in Thousand Oaks, California, at the Borderline Bar & Grill, a country-western bar frequented by college students. 13 people were killed. Tyler Spady is here to share his story of survival and hope. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
9
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, John Wilkes Booth wasn't the only famous member of his family when he assassinated President Lincoln—his brothers were also famous in their own right. Here’s Christopher Klein with the story of how the city of Boston embraced the Booth brothers after their family name became synonymous with the events of April 20th.   Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
9
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, on January 29, 1774, Benjamin Franklin was called to appear in Britain before a select group of the King's advisors—in an octagonal-shaped room in a Palace called 'the Cockpit'. Though Franklin entered the room as a dutiful servant of the British crown, he left as a budding American revolutionary. This event ultimately pitted Franklin against his son, suggesting that the Revolution was, in no small part, also a civil war. Here to tell the story is renowned Franklin historian Sheila Skemp, author of The Making of a Patriot: Benjamin Franklin at the Cockpit. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
8
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mark Metcalf is best known for his role as the sadistic ROTC officer Douglas C. Neidermeyer in the 1978 comedy Animal House. He is also known for playing the role of “The Maestro” on the hit sitcom Seinfeld as well as for his recurring role as “The Master” on the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Mark's life story is as large as the characters he portrays. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
8
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, John Lincoln Clem was just 12 years old when he picked up a drum and marched into battle becoming the youngest non-commissioned officer in Army history. Kristin O’Donnell Tubb, author of John Lincoln Clem: Civil War Drummer Boy, tells the remarkable story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
8
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy tells the story of one of the most extraordinary David vs. Goliath tank battles of WW2, which involved a little American M8 armored car and Hitler's enormous King Tiger tank. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
8
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story has been considered one of the most spectacular and best-corroborated UFO close encounters of all time. Ashley Hlebinsky is here to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mariam Ibrahim lives in Virginia—but her story begins far from there and under very different, and dire, circumstances. Here she is to tell her remarkable story of survival and freedom. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, the late historian Stephen Ambrose tells a short story from his terrific book The Wild Blue: The Men and Boys Who Flew the B-24s Over Germany.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
7
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, the subject of FDR’s relationship with Joseph Stalin during WWII is for many observers, a puzzle. How could the leader of the free world and the face of American capitalism have had a working relationship—let alone something resembling a friendship—with a person who embodied the complete opposite? A brutal, ruthless, totalitarian dictator who perpetrated mass atrocities on a scale difficult even to quantify. This is the story of one of the 20th century’s unlikeliest alliances. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, William Wrigley, Jr. was a brilliant businessman, but his ingenuity was outshined by his love for his wife. Here's the story of how he made his fortune and then spent it on the one he loved. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Pat Boone got engaged on a Saturday and married the next day (by his high school principal)—at 19! Here he is with the story of how he balanced fame and fortune with faith and family. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, despite being generally liked by the fraternity he was rushing, some boys' parents expressed their dismay at Eric Motley wanting to join the group. His would-be fraternity brothers put their enjoyment and reputations on the line to fight the unjustified hate. Here he is to tell his story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
6
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Harry S. Truman was never supposed to be President—but that's exactly what happened when Franklin Roosevelt passed away following a stroke in the early days of his fourth term in office. Here's the story of how a man who grew up in rural Missouri went from the farmhouse to closing out WWII and building the world that would exist afterward.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, after running the North American cocaine trade for the cartel in his early 20s, Jorge Valdes found salvation rather than death. Here he is to tell his remarkable story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Professor Susan Brownell shares how the Olympics ended up in St. Louis in the first place—and culminated in an absolute disaster of a marathon.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
3
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, regular contributor to OAS, and author Leslie Leyland Fields tells her story of how she came to write her own memoir. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
2
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Wally Soplata tells the story of his eccentric union carpenter father who collected rare and vintage WWII aircraft for pennies on the dime—and stored them in his backyard. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
2
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Albert Brumley wrote classic hymns like “I’ll Fly Away” and “Turn Your Radio On,” but he left behind much more. His son Bob carried the legacy – and Bob’s daughters did the same. Here is the Brumley family story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
2
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jim McCloskey grew up in church, but as he got older, he wanted nothing to do with his childhood faith. After a successful business career, Jim found himself feeling empty. He decided to return to church, and—to his surprise—began considering seminary, which would lead him to a jail cell with an innocent man in it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
2
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, George Will's volume on baseball is one of the most acclaimed sports books ever written. Here he is to tell the story of Yankee's star, Yogi Berra. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
1
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, and that’s not a knock-on Peyton. It’s a testament to ethics being lived out heroically at this great American company. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
1
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, just days before his death, the 40-year-old Maravich shared his story to a small audience about his life pursuing success and fame—until that pursuit brought him to his knees. This is the story of him coming to Christ. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan
1
2025
On this episode of Our American Stories, Colonel Sanders did something no other restaurant founder dared to do — he became his company’s mascot and brand ambassador! Here to share the story of KFC and a little about who Colonel Sanders was is Adam Chandler, author of Drive Thru Dreams. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, find out how Barry Levinson went from arguing cases in front of the Supreme Court to operating the largest museum dedicated to mustard in the world. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dana Mitch tells the story of her trip to Buchenwald, the largest concentration camp on German soil, and how she reconnected with her family because of it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in this episode of the Mclalan Files, Bob brings us the story of his father’s death. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Martin Couney carried a secret with him, but the results are unimpeachable. It was Coney Island in the early 1900’s. Beyond the Four-Legged Woman, the sword swallowers, and “Lionel the Lion-Faced Man,” was an entirely different exhibit: rows of tiny, premature human babies living in glass incubators. Here to tell the story is Dawn Raffel, author of The Strange Case of Dr. Couney. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Fawn Weaver happened upon the story of Uncle Nathan "Nearest" Green, the former slave who taught Jack Daniels how to make whiskey. Here she is to tell it.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Rocky 'Soulman' Johnson was a WWE Professional Wrestling Hall of Famer and the father of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. Here’s Dwayne paying tribute to his father who taught him so much about life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in a career spanning more than four decades and appearing in 149 movies, Western star Tim Holt could be seen on the big screen in films such as Stagecoach, My Darling Clementine, and Swiss Family Robinson.  Here to tell another Hollywood Goes to War story is Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph shares vivid, compelling stories of one constant struggle for police, and for communities: The care and safety of those with mental health battles. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story comes to us from a veteran of the U.S. Army. He served with the 82nd Airborne Division in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Here’s Fernando Arroyo. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, it was the West that molded Theodore Roosevelt into a man. Also, it was here where he learned to "carry a big stick." Roger McGrath and Michael Blake are here to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Father Stu is a motion picture starring Mark Wahlberg (who plays Father Stu) and Mel Gibson. It is based on the true life story of Father Stuart Long, the Golden Gloves Heavyweight Boxing Champion-turned-Catholic priest. We want to thank the Diocese of Helena, MT, for providing the footage you are about to hear of Father Stuart Long who will be sharing his story with us. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1984, during a period of Cold War tension, a Soviet submarine collided with a United States aircraft carrier. Here’s The History Guy with the story of the USS Kitty Hawk collision. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, did you know "radar" is actually an acronym? It stands for RAdio, Detection, And Ranging—created in 1940 by our Navy. Tim Harford, author of the bestselling book 50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, shares the stories of three inventions that changed the way we live today. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next storyteller has the privilege of being in one of the most beloved movies of all time (It's a Wonderful Life)—while, at the same time, and from the same movie—also has one of the most famous lines in movie history. Her story is as wonderful as both of these accomplishments. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, before it became a Federal Holiday—June 26, 1870—the way we celebrated Christmas would be unrecognizable to us. Here's the story of how Christmas as we know it came to be.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, OAS listener Jim Johnson shares the story of his search for the perfect Christmas tree. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, it's called the first “American” Christmas because the Declaration of Independence was created the previous summer, essentially “divorcing” America from England and declaring our country an independent nation. Brian Benjamin shares the story from his book, Christmas, 1776. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dealing with a small budget and with a short deadline, A Charlie Brown Christmas was released to critical acclaim on December 9th, 1965. While audiences loved it, there were many doubters behind the scenes at CBS. Our host, Lee Habeeb, tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the crew of Apollo 8 and Steve Kates (AKA Dr. Sky) tell the story of the Christmas time mission to the moon—and the reading of Genesis over its surface. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Greg McDonald got his start in show business as a teenager after meeting Elvis Presley and his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, shortly after Parker began managing Elvis in the ‘50s. Here’s Greg with a Colonel and Elvis Christmas story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Karl Marlantes, the award-winning author of Matterhorn and What It Is Like To Go To War, tells the story of how he received his medals in Vietnam—and how he grappled with them when so many had done more and gotten less than him. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, doing maintenance in mansions, you could meet anyone, talk about anything - even find your career as an agent! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, regular contributor to the show and author Winter Prosapio dives into some of the strange laws we have....and why we have them. You can find her book on weird laws HERE. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in his book-turned-docudrama Why the Nativity? Dr. David Jeremiah looks in detail at the people and events that surround the Christmas story and why each of them was chosen for their specific purpose. Here's the story of the nativity!  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Bill Toti, former captain of the USS Indianapolis submarine, tells the story of his experience with Admiral Hyman Rickover—the father of the nuclear navy.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Frederick Douglass escaped slavery when he was 20 and went on to become one of the most important Americans to fight for emancipation and the equality of all people. He was the most photographed American of the 19th century, sitting for more portraits than even Abraham Lincoln. But this famed abolitionist’s story is even more fascinating than what many of us have learned in school. Here to tell the story is Frederick Douglass impersonator, Kyle Taylor Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, only weeks after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Prime Minister Winston Churchill made an all-important stop in the United States to visit with President Roosevelt and to address Congress about the hard path before them...as he knew more than anybody else in the world what that path looked like. He'd been walking it alone for a while.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy remembers the forgotten stories from U.S. military history. You won't want to miss this one! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, for nearly 60 years, Hess trucks have brought smiles to children, and adults, up and down the East Coast. They were also the kind of gift the energy entrepreneur who created them wished he could have gotten growing up. Hess Toy Truck Director, Justin Mayer, and superfan, Mike Roberto, tell the story.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Colin Bettles loves buffalo wings, which isn't that odd—many people do. However, the thing that makes his story unique is that he's many many many miles removed from Buffalo, New York in Australia. Here he is to share his story of how he came to adore buffalo wings.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, for more than 150 years the story of Davy Crockett has captured our imaginations and inspired us to celebrate his image in song, story, and cinema. Here to tell another Hollywood Goes to War story is Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on May 1st, 1960, spy pilot Gary Powers was shot down over Soviet Russia resulting in massive controversy....and many questions. Did he defect? Did he have a flameout? Why didn't he kill himself? Did he spill his guts to the Soviets? When he returned from captivity to some, he was a hero—to others, he was a villain. But to Gary Powers, Jr....he was just dad. Here's Gary Powers Jr. to tell the true story of his father. Be sure to check out Gary's phenomenal books (and Cold War tours) on his website!  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Larry Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, tells the remarkable story of how George Washington turned the tides of war at Trenton and Princeton in the most important year in our country's history—1776 by surprising a bunch of hungover Germans.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, most people's knowledge of Robert E. Lee starts with his decision to reject command of the Union Army and ends at Appomattox—but there's so much more to his story than that. Dr. Allen C. Guelzo, author of Robert E. Lee: A Life, tells the story of a complicated man whose decision-making was heavily influenced by where his house was and where his family was. We thank the great folks at the Bill of Rights Institute for allowing us to use this remarkable audio—originally part of their Scholar Talks Series on YouTube.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Billie Mae Richards is a Canadian actress best known for voicing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer in the 1964 stop-motion television classic. The special first aired on December 6, 1964, on NBC. Here’s Billie Mae to share her story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Rikk Dunlap has always been a writer, but he never dreamed that his work would eventually become a regular feature film on the biggest holiday movie channel around—Hallmark. Here he is to share his astonishing story.... just in time for the holidays.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, tells how a meeting in his church turned into a Boy Scouts project, a Christmas tradition, and 50,000 free beds for needy families every year. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
17
2024
Mom died, the dog died, the wife took off, and John Clay Wolfe became paralyzed all in the short span of about a year. Then came the worst news: someone had been stealing his company's money, and he was millions in debt. John Clay Wolfe, the founder of GiveMeTheVin.com and the host of the John Clay Wolfe Show, tells his astonishing story of recovery—both in business and life.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a son's story about his father, from our regular listener/contributor Roger Latham, from Fort Worth, Texas. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, just moments before the biggest fireworks display in American history, President Ronald Reagan spoke in front of the Statue of Liberty aboard the USS John F. Kennedy. Reagan understood the profound nature of what the founders did back in 1776. We take you back to New York Harbor in 1986. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener Patty Kingsbaker shares this "knockout" Frank Sinatra story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, he was twice nominated for the Academy Award for his 1954 performance in Roman Holiday, and the second in 1973 for The Heartbreak Kid. He also starred as Oliver Wendell Douglas in the 1960s television sitcom Green Acres. But his greatest role was the one he played in WWII. As part of our ongoing 'Hollywood Goes to War' series, Roger McGrath tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy recalls the forgotten history of Christmas trees. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the Mason-Dixon Line defined the American "house divided" between antislavery and pro-slavery. Yet this border war was pre-dated by another battle—a colonial-era quarrel that ended only when the area separating Pennsylvania and Maryland’s border was surveyed and mapped in the 1760s by the Englishmen Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon. Here to tell the story is Dakota Bricker who hosts the YouTube channel, What In The History? Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, from its humble beginnings in an Austrian chapel in 1818, 'Silent Night' has become one of the most popular Christmas hymns ever. Here’s the History Guy with the story of the song. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, after Mike and Deborah Bailey lost their daughter to a drug overdose, what they did next is nothing short of a miracle. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next storyteller has the privilege of being in one of the most beloved movies of all time (It's a Wonderful Life)—while, at the same time, and from the same movie—also has one of the most famous lines in movie history. Her story is as wonderful as both of these accomplishments. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the story of Sgt. Alvin York is a celebrated chapter in American history. Though he tried to avoid war for religious reasons, York became one of the most notable heroes of World War I. Elliott Drago, the Jack Miller Center's editorial officer and historian, is here to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener and regular contributor Jim Johnson finds peculiar friends wherever he goes. This story is about one such friend—Everett Motl. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Carl Albert was known as the Little Giant from Little Dixie. He would become the Speaker of the House during the Watergate years. Here's the story of how he put principle over politics. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the late great Stephen Ambrose shares a WWII story that begins in January 1943 and ends with the Allied solution of unconditional surrender. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on January 9, 2007, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs—already a legendary pitchman—put on what many consider the best business presentation in corporate history and unveiled a new product that would cement Apple’s comeback.... the iPhone. Here's the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, despite all his Hollywood fame and acting acclaim, Jimmy Stewart always said the greatest honor of his life was serving his country in WWII. As part of our Hollywood Goes to War Series, Dr. Roger McGrath tells the story of Jimmy's service and sacrifice. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1893 John L. Sullivan's "Knockout Tour" traveled America. The challenge? Could any man in America last 12 minutes in the ring with the champ? Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ace Collins, the author of Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas tells the stories of people you’ve never met, stories you’ve never heard, and meanings you’d never have imagined of some of the most beloved songs of Christmas. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, no horse had won the Triple Crown in horse racing in a quarter century. Heading into the third race of the Triple Crown - the Belmont Stakes - Secretariat was the oddsmaker's favorite, and America's, too. Here's the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1968 19-year-old Frank Olivo decided to attend a Philadelphia Eagles game dressed as Santa. Instead of being met by good holiday cheer as one might expect, he was booed and pelted with snowballs cementing his legacy in sports lore. Here to tell the story is Frank’s first cousin and best friend, Richard Monastra. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mary Mikami was a Japanese American born in Alaska. Here's her story of what happened to her when World War II broke out. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, he made eight consecutive all-star game appearances and captured four World Series championships, but his talent was overshadowed by his destructive life outside the ballpark. Here's Darryl to share his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, drug culture—the kind where your parent is a dealer—wrecked Teri Neal's life. Hear how her son inspired and encouraged her to build her life back by serving others. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, one of our listeners, George Gozzard, shares the story of his big band trumpeter father, Harry Gozzard Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, for our 'Final Thoughts' series, Justice Elena Kagan, who viewed the Constitution differently than Justice Antonin "Nino" Scalia, speaks about her friend. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in honor of the anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the late great historian Stephen Ambrose tells the story of 1941—the year that would bring America into WWII. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The Salvation Army's Christmas Red Kettle has been an American icon for 125 years. But for many Americans, this is all they know about the Salvation Army… until now. We’d like to thank the folks at Vision Video for giving us access to their wonderful documentary, Our People: The Story of William and Catherine Booth. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, we all know Shel Silverstein's children's book, The Giving Tree, but did you know he wrote one of America's most famous country songs? Here's the story! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, commitment to serve others better is a hallmark of American life. Add a sensible new design, honest pricing, and the never-ending journey of mechanical engineering - and we now have another key player in the forces behind public safety. Here's the story of how the tow truck as we know it came to be.   Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories regular contributor and listener, Paul Kotz, shares the story of what happened when hopped into a dumpster with a homeless man to play cards with him. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, ...and gave much of it away. Here's the story of a man you might not know.... but will be glad to meet—Orville Rogers. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Paul Kengor's daughters were across the street while a tragedy unfolded at the Tree of Life Synagogue on October 27, 2018. Here he is with his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Audie Murphy's story is one of the quintessential American stories; yet, chances are, many Americans have never even heard of his name. Here's Roger McGrath with another Hollywood Goes to War story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story is about the man who played Captain McCluskey in “The Godfather,’’ the crooked cop who breaks Michael Corleone’s jaw—later receiving a bullet through the throat and forehead as comeuppance. Here to tell another Hollywood Goes to War story is Roger McGrath.McGrath is the author of Gunfighters, Highwaymen, and Vigilantes: Violence on the Frontier. A U.S. Marine and former history professor at UCLA, Dr. McGrath has appeared on numerous History Channel documentaries and is a regular contributor here at Our American Stories. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Charles Lindbergh got his start performing in aerial circuses—and as a glorified mailman. He also made the daring decision to fly solo across the Atlantic, despite everyone else choosing to have a wingman. Kirk Higgins of the Bill of Rights Institute tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, generations of Red Sox fans came and went before any modicum of success came to the team—some blamed it on a curse cast upon them by Babe Ruth himself. Here's the story of how the curse was broken. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Allen Guelzo, author of Robert E. Lee: A Life, tells the story of one of the most consequential and controversial generals in American history—and why he might have had the most success at the end of his life at the university that still bears his name. We'd like to thank the folks at the Bill of Rights Institute for allowing us to use this audio—originally part of their 'Scholar Talks' series on YouTube. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, “The Great Vowel Shift” was the single greatest change in the history of the English language that has now become the official language in over 75 countries. Here’s the History Guy with the story of “The Great Vowel Shift” and the making of modern English. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Charles Ponzi may not have invented the Ponzi Scheme, but he certainly lent his name to it. Here to tell the story is Jonathan Small of the podcast Write About Now. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, remaining effective and calm under fire, from the undergrowth of the Vietnamese jungle to the rivers and skies, Ted Godlove concerned himself not with the hopelessness of a situation or who would get the credit for a victory, but rather with fighting the enemy and protecting his brothers in arms. Michael Williams, author of The Boys of Milo, tells the story of one man, among several from his hometown, who volunteered to face this fight. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener Richard Muniz tells the story of his boss who participated in atomic bomb testing in Nevada in the 1950s. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here to tell the story of explorer, accused spy, and American military hero, Zebulon Pike is Craig du Mez of the Grateful Nation Project. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, outside of 1776, 1864 is perhaps the most consequential year in American history. Here's the story of how Abraham Lincoln almost wasn't re-elected. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, fantasy football is a 13-billion-dollar empire and 29 million Americans play it—but it wasn't always this way. Here to tell the story about its origins is Peter Funt, author of Inside Fantasy Football.   Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Theodore Schwartz, A neurosurgeon as well as a professor of neurosurgery at Weill Cornell Medicine—and the author of Grey Matters, shines some light into the dark history of the lobotomy—and how it led to innovation and modern-day brain surgery. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jonathan Alexandratos is a toy historian whose knowledge was featured in the film, Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids. Here’s Jonathan with the story of the Cabbage Patch Kids and how they set the wheels in motion for modern-day Black Friday. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, some of Walter Hunt's inventions include a saw, a steamer, inkstands, the nail-making machine, a rifle, a revolver, bullets, bicycles, a shirt collar, a boot heel, and a ceiling-walking circus device....but his most successful invention was designed in just three hours to settle a $15 debt to one of the many draftsmen he tasked with drawing up his patents. Here’s Ashley Hlebinsky with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener Roger Latham shares a story he wrote entitled "The Real Santa". Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, professional football began on the factory clock and bank loans, and the first teams were bought for hundreds of dollars. John Eisenberg, author of The League, tells how the pioneers of American sports culture, win or lose, went all-in to make American Football the best and most dramatic game it could be. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, author Kristin O'Donnell Tubb tells the riveting story of the family that lived in the New York Public Library. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, everyone’s a New Yorker on Thanksgiving Day, when young and old rise early to see what giant new balloons will fill the skies for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our next story is about the man who first invented these "upside-down puppets”—Tony Sarg. Here to tell the story is Deborah Sorensen, Curator of Exhibitions at the Nantucket Historical Association where their exhibition, “Tony Sarg: Genius at Play” is the first comprehensive exhibition exploring the life of Tony Sarg. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, 400 million pounds of cranberries are consumed by Americans each year. Twenty percent of that is during the week of Thanksgiving. That's 80 million pounds! And 5,062,500 gallons of jellied cranberry sauce are consumed by Americans every holiday season. Here’s the History Guy to share the story of the Great Cranberry Scare of 1959. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thanksgiving is the only American holiday that has remained relatively innocent—it’s not something we've been able to commercialize. But something is happening here more than feasting, family, and football. Robert Tracy McKenzie, professor of history at Wheaton College and author of The First Thanksgiving, tells the story of this quintessentially American holiday. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thanksgiving used to be one of many days—"If you planned your itinerary carefully, you could have a good Thanksgiving dinner every day between Election Day and Christmas Day." That all changed when a songwriter worked long and hard to crystallize American culture as distinct from that of Britain - including by a new official holiday in the midst of the Civil War. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Robert Shaw's "Quint" told the world about what happened to the USS Indianapolis in the hit movie "Jaws." The late Edgar Harrell, the last surviving Marine from the downed ship, tells the real-life story of that fateful day. It's a story you won't soon forget. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, how did Indiana get its nickname “The Hoosier State?” And how did people from Indiana come to be called “Hoosiers?” Here to answer these questions and tell the story is Dr. Stephen Flick. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener, Lindsey Gallant, tells her story of the time she was challenged to an eating contest by a boy at her church. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, before Bob Funk founded Express Employment Professionals, he wanted to be an actual minister, but his real calling in helping people find work (and hope) has likely had a much bigger impact—with over 800 franchises around the world. The purpose of the business? Connect workers to work. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, everyone’s a New Yorker on Thanksgiving Day, when young and old rise early to see what giant new balloons will fill the skies for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our next story is about the man who first invented these "upside-down puppets”—Tony Sarg. Here to tell the story is Deborah Sorensen, Curator of Exhibitions at the Nantucket Historical Association where their exhibition, “Tony Sarg: Genius at Play” is the first comprehensive exhibition exploring the life of Tony Sarg. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, when Iowa listener Joy Neal Kidney's church took in refugees from war torn Bosnia, her family took it upon themselves to provide one of the families in the group with their first American Thanksgiving. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan who is the author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thanksgiving is the only American holiday that has actually remained relatively innocent—it’s not something that we have been able to commercialize. But there’s something going on here more than feasting, family, and football. Robert Tracy McKenzie is a professor of history at Wheaton College and is the author of The First Thanksgiving. He’s here to tell us the story of this quintessentially American holiday. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, cooking in the late 1800s was unpredictable, tiresome, and difficult. Recipes were passed down in families but often contained vague—if any—actual measurements. Fannie Farmer changed all that in 1896. We are joined by Ken Albala, professor of history and food studies at University of the Pacific in California. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, according to the National Turkey Federation, each year Americans gobble down on 46 million turkeys for Thanksgiving...but out of that number, how many have gone "missing"? "Master Chef" Steve Reed tells his story on the turkey that got away...at least for a little while. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, this story comes to us from Paul (a.k.a. the "empty nester"), a listener from Minneapolis, MN Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here to settle this question once and for all is Stephen Follows. Stephen is an established data researcher in the film industry and wrote the widely circulated answer to this hotly debated question on his website, StephenFollows.com. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, 400 million pounds of cranberries are consumed by Americans each year. Twenty percent of that is during the week of Thanksgiving. That's 80 million pounds! And 5,062,500 gallons of jellied cranberry sauce are consumed by Americans every holiday season. Here’s the History Guy to share the story of the Great Cranberry Scare of 1959. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Richard Muniz tells the story of the night he would never forget while working as a deputy for the Conejos County Sheriff's Department. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thomas Weller, also known as 'The San Diego Highwayman,' shares the story of why he dedicated his time to helping people on the side of the road. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the unlikely story of redemption and bravery behind two Chicago legends: Al Capone's lawyer "Easy" Eddie and O'Hare Airport's namesake, WWII Ace pilot-hero, Butch O'Hare. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, let’s take a listen to The History Guy as he tells the history of the Bible. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, auto CEO Roger Penske ripped the seats out of his private jet to give Mercedes Benz a personal apology because of a business failure. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jim O'Brien describes Pittsburgh Steelers founding owner Art Rooney, Sr. as "the grandfather he needed." Rooney taught O'Brien the importance of always attending funerals, including the story of Rooney attending a funeral for a man he barely knew. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, after a century and a half, Jesse James remains one of the most iconic and romanticized figures in American history. Here to tell the story of America’s most notorious outlaw is Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, everyone’s a New Yorker on Thanksgiving Day, when young and old rise early to see what giant new balloons will fill the skies for Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our next story is about the man who first invented these "upside-down puppets”—Tony Sarg. Here to tell the story is Deborah Sorensen, Curator of Exhibitions at the Nantucket Historical Association where their exhibition, “Tony Sarg: Genius at Play” is the first comprehensive exhibition exploring the life of Tony Sarg. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, she is remembered in history as Doc Holliday’s on-and-off girlfriend-turned wife. But Big Nose Kate was much more than that. Here's the History Guy with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, an elderly penguin named Enrique lived at the St. Louis Zoo. After being diagnosed with arthritis in his feet, the zoo began trying to find ways to make him comfortable. Marija Elden, the Zoological Manager of Birds, shares Enrique’s journey to owning a pair of pretty cool kicks. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in our 22nd episode of our Story of America Series, Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope, tells the story of the first President to appeal to the popular sensibilities of Americans in The West. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Estel Myers joined the military after an argument with his father and found himself on the frontlines of the Phillipines—and captured by the Japanese. His children tell the story of the man they knew after the war...and why they consider him their hero. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, historical truths often emerge with time. Early on, a hush descended over 1692-1693 Salem Witch Trials for generations. Then came playwright Arthur Miller, who made off with the story, or at least his version of it. Since 1953, The Crucible has become the culturally-accepted storyline that has come to define American Puritans and the city of Salem itself. Dr. Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries. He’s here to tell the story of the Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, when Iowa listener Joy Neal Kidney's church took in refugees from war torn Bosnia, her family took it upon themselves to provide one of the families in the group with their first American Thanksgiving. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan who is the author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, from African musical craftsmanship to the American South - and to the sounds of every animal in Minecraft - the story of the Kazoo will amaze you. Sarah Barnwell from the Kazoobie Kazoo Factory shares the story behind the kazoo, one of the few American-made instruments. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross tells the stories about the lessons in ethics that changed his life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our series with music legend Pat Boone goes off the rails into his Heavy Metal classics. It appeared to many, at first, that the Christian and American music stalwart was no longer straight-laced - though there were still laces. Lots of laces. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, no one knew for sure just how great Michael Jordan would be in the NBA. One underdog sneaker company - yes, Nike was an underdog then - took a bet on him. But the turning point came when they zeroed in on a fledgling director - Spike Lee. The rest is history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Milton Nadler probably accumulated more stories by the time he was 30 than most people do in a lifetime. Here's Milt telling his extraordinary story of fighting against Hitler's army as a Jewish man in an American uniform.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Bill Bryk knows when to start a case on behalf of others... and has learned when to rest. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in our 32nd episode of our Story of America Series, Dr. Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope, tells the story of how Lincoln's assassination derailed the rebirth of a more free and radically different nation—and explains why his successor wasn't up to the massive job at hand. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tim Leuliette began his career at Ford Motor Company under the leadership of Lee Iacocca and Henry Ford II. He got more than he bargained for... and was thankful for it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ric Mixter of Lake Fury tells the story of the historic 1913 storm on the Great Lakes Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Burt Young is an immediately recognizable character actor whose half-muttered voice and flinty gaze made him the perfect fit for "Rocky" as Sylvester Stallone's ill-mannered brother-in-law, Paulie. Here’s Burt Young with his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the Civil War soldier, William Scott, fell asleep at his post, at the time a transgression punishable by execution. What happened next changed military history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Larry Reed tells the story of the Flushing Remonstrance, an all-important document that helped inform the 1st Amendment. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, where would our photos go if our house were to be hit by a tornado? The answer is everywhere. But for Thad Beeler's neighbors, that question wasn't a hypothetical...it was grounded in harsh reality after the deadly May 2011 Joplin Tornado...and Thad decided to do something about it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, we’ve all heard of gunslingers “Wild” Bill Hickok, Doc Holliday, and Billy The Kid. These quick-draw legends had nothing on Bob Munden. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Ambrose shares some stories from his #1 New York Times bestseller, Undaunted Courage. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thanksgiving used to be one of many days—"If you planned your itinerary carefully, you could have a good Thanksgiving dinner every day between Election Day and Christmas Day." That all changed when a songwriter worked long and hard to crystallize American culture as distinct from that of Britain - including by a new official holiday in the midst of the Civil War. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Donald Sturm tells his story of growing up during The Great Depression without knowing it because of the powerful influence of his parents...here's his remarkable story. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story is about a Founding Father who wrote the most famous seven words in American history: “We the People of the United States.” Professor of political science at Syracuse, Dennis C. Rasmussen is also the author of The Constitution's Penman: Gouverneur Morris and the Creation of America's Basic Charter—he is also a Jack Miller Center Fellow. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Leven was President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. One of the great hoteliers of all time—a legend in his business. He is also what you would call a “wise man.” Here’s Mike with a story about how he learned to put his customers in charge. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, 400 million pounds of cranberries are consumed by Americans each year. Twenty percent of that is during the week of Thanksgiving. That's 80 million pounds! And 5,062,500 gallons of jellied cranberry sauce are consumed by Americans every holiday season. Here’s the History Guy to share the story of the Great Cranberry Scare of 1959. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jimmy Neary was an Irish immigrant who boarded a ship to America in the 1950s and went on to open a namesake restaurant in Manhattan that has for more than a half century been a famed canteen in the heart of New York City. Here to tell his story is Jimmy’s daughter, Una. https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
14
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, all in all, it is estimated that around 800 Jews were saved by Corrie ten Boom and her family. Hear Corrie tell her story! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
14
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy remembers the Birkenhead Disaster and explains where the protocol "women and children first" was first used. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
14
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thanksgiving is the only American holiday that has actually remained relatively innocent—it’s not something that we have been able to commercialize. But there’s something going on here more than feasting, family, and football. Robert Tracy McKenzie is a professor of history at Wheaton College and is the author of The First Thanksgiving. He’s here to tell us the story of this quintessentially American holiday. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, George Washington led America's army to independence. He needed help to avoid leading it into our first civil war. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, popular social media influencer and mother Tiffany Jenkins talks about her secret to being a mother.... (hint: it's not what you post on social media!) Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, this is the story of how two country boys rose to the highest heights of Harvard Yard, yet their lives would have two dramatically different fates. Here to tell the story Andrew Porwancher. He is a professor at Arizona State University and is also a Jack Miller Center Fellow. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Peter Braxton brings an eye-opening perspective on service to America in war-torn skies. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, one of the most successful blackjack teams in America is made up entirely of Christians. Here to tell the story are two of the winningest players, Colin Jones, founder of BlackJackApprenticeship.com. And the player dubbed “the most notorious card counter in America,” David Drury. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Larry Spencer tells the story of being one of the first POWs of the Vietnam war and surviving until war's end in both "The Zoo" prison and in the infamous Hanoi Hilton. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Paul Monti drives his son Jared's truck, an act which inspired the hit country song "I Drive Your Truck" by Lee Brice...but the story is much more than that of a song. Here's the story of Jared Monti, a true hero who died in service of our country trying to save a fellow soldier in the mountains of Afghanistan. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in the late 1960s, Karl Marlantes was presented with a choice. Serve in a war that he saw as unjust, desert to Algeria or Sweden, or stay at Oxford University on a Rhodes Scholarship and hide behind that privilege as his high school friends fought and died in the jungle of Vietnam. Marlantes chose to serve. But why? Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Vince Benedetto delivers the awe-inspiring story of our first president. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Joy Neal Kidney shares her uncle, Donald Wilson's, war story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, as big freighters go, she was bigger than most with a crew and captain well-seasoned...but on November 10th, 1975, she and her 29-man crew were sent to the bottom of Lake Superior. Ric Mixter of Lake Fury tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Leven was President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. One of the great hoteliers of all time—a legend in his business. He is also what you would call a “wise man.” Here’s Mike with a story about what he learned from an uncaring college law professor. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Annie Oakley was a shooting star. In her personal life she was a sharpshooter as well. She was devoted to her marriage and to her faith. It’s no wonder that Annie Oakley inspired scores of books and movies and the Broadway musical Annie Get Your Gun. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Adam Jortner, the author of A Promised Land: Jewish Patriots, the American Revolution, and the Birth of Religious Freedom, sits down with Lee Habeeb to discuss the vital role Jews played in the fight for religious freedom in the formative years of the United States.  Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, we are about to hear the untold story of Hollywood legend Steve McQueen told by a McQueen expert, Marshall Terrill. Steve McQueen died this day in history in 1980. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ralphie’s fantasy encounter with Black Bart in A Christmas Story leads one to believe that Black Bart was some desperado. In the 1870′s there was a dime novel that was loosely based on the true story. A Christmas Story author Jean Shepherd read this novel as a kid and included Ralphie’s reincarnation of Black Bart as a desperado. But Black Bart’s real story is far more fantastical than Ralphie’s imagination. Here to tell the story of America’s most successful and eccentric stagecoach robber is one of America’s greatest Old West storytellers, Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, who is the author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Douglas was the greatest debater of his day. Lincoln was an unknown trial lawyer from Illinois. Allen Guelzo tells the story of how the days-long debates between them would lead Lincoln to the Presidency and make America what it is today. Allen is the author of Lincoln and Douglas: The Debates that Defined America. A special thanks to the Bill of Rights Institute for allowing us to use this audio, originally part of their Scholar Talks series. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the team broke hearts and left its city under the cover of night in moving vans - but the memory of the Baltimore Colts, and legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, burns bright in the hearts of its fans. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Matt Parker, a comedian and mathematician from Australia, tells the story of the time Michael Larson surprisingly beat the game show, Press Your Luck, and gives a look into why computers can’t be random. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Richard Gatling hoped that the tremendous power of his new Civil War weapon would discourage large-scale battles and show the folly of war. Here to tell the story is Ashley Hlebinsky. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, after the fall of the Philippines, over 70,000 Americans and Filipinos were taken captive by Japanese forces on the Bataan Peninsula. The death rate of these POWs was well over 30 percent. By contrast, the allies' POWs endured a death rate of three percent. Here to tell his harrowing story of surviving Japanese military savagery is Dr. Lester Tenney, author of My Hitch In Hell. A special thanks to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans for allowing us to use this audio. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1966, an SR-71 "Blackbird" disintegrated at 78,000 feet. The pilot's first thought was "No one could live through what just happened". Therefore, I must be dead." Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in this "Rule of Law" Story, James King and his lawyer Patrick Jaicomo from the Institute for Justice tell the story of an extreme case of mistaken identity that led them down a long road to achieve justice. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy remembers the 16th President’s son, Robert Todd Lincoln. Because of his father, Abraham Lincoln, Robert Todd's life has been largely forgotten—but it deserves to be remembered. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, this is the story of Chuck Colson's Watergate fallout—told by Chuck himself, who served as Special Counsel to President Richard Nixon. This was the last interview Chuck Colson granted before passing at 80 years of age in 2012. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on June 6, 1944, FDR delivered a prayer to the nation at 9:57PM ET. It would last 6 minutes long and be heard by over 100 million Americans—and millions more in Europe. Written with help from his daughter and his daughter's husband, it was the largest mass prayer in American (and world) history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Anne Claire tells the story of the Battle of Midway, America's "make or break" moment in World War II. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, when 85-year-old Lana Peters passed away in 2011 from complications due to colon cancer, the nation seemed to have forgotten the woman who had become a sensation during the Cold War. The History Guy recalls the extraordinary life of the woman whose defection to the United States represented a seminal moment in history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, when Donna’s daughter, Cassie, was diagnosed with Chronic Paranoid Schizophrenia as a teenager, their daily jobs became more difficult. So they dropped everything and opened a resale shop. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Heather McPherson became the Curator of History at the South Carolina Military Museum. Hear her inspiring reason for her career.ReplyReply allForward Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, sometimes it's the principle of the thing. When you experience fraud, you can "wine" about it - or you can get the grapes of wrath involved. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here to tell the story is Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist, Scott Shane. Shane is the author of "Flee North: A Forgotten Hero and the Fight for Freedom in Slavery’s Borderland." Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tracy Grant, the former managing editor at the Washington Post, shares the story of why the days taking care of her dying husband were the best 7 months of her life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tim Harford, author of the bestselling book 50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, shares the stories of three inventions that changed the way we live today. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, many Americans have heard of the famous Navajo Code Talkers who used their traditional language to transmit secret Allied messages in the Pacific Theater of combat during World War II. Our next story is told to us by one of these Marines. Peter MacDonald is the President at Navajo Code Talkers Association. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the director was a renegade filmmaker who'd never made a profitable picture. The producer was hired because he could stay below budget. The star had a reputation for being difficult. A formula for disaster? No, the makings of one of the greatest films of all time. Here to tell the story is Harlan Lebo, author of The Godfather Legacy. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Elisabeth Elliot was a missionary who returned to Ecuador with her toddler daughter to preach the Gospel to the Indian tribe that had killed her husband. Here's Elisabeth Elliot to tell us her story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thomas Bennett was a master salesman and businessman who helped, along with John Moses Browning, create the iconic American firearms brand Winchester. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a former high-powered media executive shares the story of how the 37-year horse racing Triple Crown drought broken in 2015 brought back a flood of memories of Sundays at the track with his Dad. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, “Wild Bill" Donovan was one of America’s most exciting and secretive generals—the man President Franklin Roosevelt made his top spy in World War II. “Wild” Bill was the director of the Office of Strategic Services (the country’s first national intelligence agency). He is known as the founding father of both the CIA and the military's Special Operations Forces—along with being credited as the father of psychological and cyber warfare. Here to tell the story is Douglas Waller. He is the author of the bestseller, Wild Bill Donovan: The Spymaster Who Created the OSS and Modern American Espionage. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, King Solomon was a gravedigger who may have saved the town of Lexington during the Cholera epidemic of 1833. Kentucky journalist Sam Terry tells the story of the man they called “King Solomon.” Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the brutal double-murder that happened in Fall River, Massachusetts in 1892 has long been considered an unsolved mystery. Cara Robertson, author of the The Trial Of Lizzie Borden, tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
31
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the origin of this conflict flowed from a deceptively simple question—a riddle of sorts that a Catholic monk named Martin Luther wrestled with for years. The question he asked himself was this: Am I a good person? Here to tell the story is Eric Metaxas, bestselling author of Martin Luther. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin is in a glass coffin...but so is an American man along the shores of Lake Michigan. Chris Siriano tells this curious story about the coffin, the man inside of it, and the harebrained scheme to steal his diamond necklace. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Halloween expert Lisa Morton is going to be unpacking the history of the Halloween Haunted House, which is directly tied into today’s practice of Trick-or-Treating. Lisa is the author of Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween. By the turn of the 20th century, Halloween in America was nothing more than a day of pranking—kind of like April Fools' Day. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, with its classic “old country” theme, Cracker Barrel has been an American favorite for many decades. But many people don’t know that the decor you find on the walls and throughout the stores are all authentic pieces of American history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the morning of September 11, 2001, Peter Braxton was the first military pilot in the air over the burning Twin Towers. It was his first day on the job. Not long after that, he flew multiple combat tours in the Middle East and then retired from the Air Force. Here’s Peter with the story about the phone call he received shortly after his retirement: "Do You Still Have Your Uniform? Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, from Nosferatu and Dracula to Friday the 13th and Saw, Matt Castro brings us the full history of all your favorite horror films. Check out his YouTube channel for more. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Robert Montgomery was one of the first movie stars to volunteer for service in World War II and when Dwight D. Eisenhower ran for the Presidency in 1952, Montgomery was his television coach. When General Eisenhower became President, Montgomery stayed on in his role as television advisor to become the first show-business professional to occupy an office in the White House. Here to tell another Hollywood Goes to War story is Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 2017, Rhode Islander Joe Jutras broke the record for the largest giant green squash ever grown- it came in at 2,118 lbs. Today Joe shares all that goes into growing these giant fruits. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
29
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, why do we participate in these strange celebrations every Halloween? Lesley Bannatyne is the author of Halloween: An American Holiday, An American History, and Lisa Morton is the author of Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, from Nosferatu and Dracula to Friday the 13th and Saw, Matt Castro brings us the full history of all your favorite horror films. Check out his YouTube channel for more. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Paul Westhead, former coach of the L.A. Lakers, shares his life story with Lee. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Anne Claire tells the story of America's first two responses to Pearl Harbor: The Doolittle Raids and the Battle of the Coral Sea. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, escaping the horrors of World War II in Croatia, Tony Maglica's flashlights are proudly made in America—and his dreams were too. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
28
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, uncover the true story of Alexander Hamilton, a man of brilliance, contradictions, and enduring influence on American history. Here to tell the story is Ron Chernow, author of Alexander Hamilton. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in a thrilling, moment-by-moment narrative based on a wealth of recently declassified documents and in-depth interviews, authors Bob Drury and Tom Clavin tell the remarkable story of the evacuation of Saigon in Last Men Out: The True Story of America's Heroic Final Hours in Vietnam. This closing chapter of the war would become the largest-scale evacuation ever carried out, as improvised by a small unit of Marines. Bob Drury is here to tell the story.   Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, regular contributor Stephen Rusiniak has a special story written by his daughter. She shares how helping those in need can help bring a little perspective to our lives. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, territorial ambition as old as the ages gave us the complicated history of North Carolina and Tennessee. In fairness, the grass and trees are remarkably green on both sides. Hear deep insight into what matters to people, and the lengths to which leaders have gone to effect their designs. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, dueling was close to Andrew Jackson's heart. Here to tell us just how close is Keith Hardison, former director of Interpretation at The Hermitage in Nashville, TN - Jackson's home. Keith starts by explaining a code of honor that culminated from 1750 to 1850. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The Lone Ranger, with his cry of “Hi-Ho Silver!” has become an American institution ranking with Paul Bunyan in the realms of folklore and legend. The History Guy remembers Bass Reeves, John Reynolds Hughes, and forgotten history of the Wild West. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Native Americans of the inhabitants of Manhattan served with George Washington at Valley Forge, and many battles besides. Hear stories of family, and of historic valor. Here is Craig Du Mez, president of the Grateful Nation Project. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, has your neighbor ever had a crazy idea? John Deere did. Let's dig right into it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here’s The History Guy with the story of Robert Smalls, an escaped slave-turned Civil War legend. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, King Solomon was a gravedigger who may have saved the town of Lexington during the Cholera epidemic of 1833. Kentucky journalist Sam Terry tells the story of the man they called “King Solomon.” Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in Our 31st episode of The Story of America Series, Professor Bill McClay conveys in mercifully short order the brutal fight, and the haunting pronouncements, of the American Civil War. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, America's mascot has always been specific, and always evolving. The common themes are provision and a call to serve. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, s a part of its 100th anniversary celebration, Ford wanted a new supercar to showcase its heritage and future. Jon Elfner brings us this new Faerrari-slayer's story through the eyes of industry legends Neil Ressler, Scott Ahlman, and Mark McGowan. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Richard Muniz tells the story of Willie Kennard...Colorado's first black lawman. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mark O'Brian tells the story of "St. Louie Louie"...one of the best pool players to ever grace the scene. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on January 23, 1961, a B-52 bomber crashed in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Two H-bombs—each 250 times more powerful than the bombs dropped on Japan, fell to the ground. Earl Smith dismantled those bombs and he's here to tell us the story! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, historian Stephen Ambrose tells us the unlikely World War II story of George McGovern, the antiwar presidential candidate who was defeated by President Nixon in 1972. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jaimie Scott tells the story about how through a simple DNA test he found countless family members he had no idea about in his hometown. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the story behind the story of Holiday Inn is all about family. Here's Kemmons Wilson, Jr. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Barry Meguiar tells the compelling story of his rare 1901 Duryea car. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the granddaughters of Albert E. Brumley share the story of how their grandpa entered this world as the son of penniless sharecroppers and left it as the writer of the most recorded Gospel music song in history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
22
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the war in Ben Franklin's home was not one a loving family could have ever expected. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, often, art imitates life; this time, life imitated art. Two of America's most famous actors (Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino in the movie Heat) inspired the most famous bank robbery in American history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, straight out of a Horatio Alger novel, the Silver Kings (John Mackay, James Fair, William O'Brien, and James Flood) epitomized the rags-to-riches American dream story. Roger McGrath tells the story of the richest mineral discovery in American history - the Comstock Lode. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Thomas Jefferson’s impact on our country cannot be overstated. He fought for religious liberty, states rights, and the expansion and strengthening of America as an up-and-coming nation. His legacy is memorialized in many locations across the country, not the least of which is his own residence in Charlottesville, Virginia… Monticello. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
21
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Major General James Mukoyama rose from his blue collar Chicago neighborhood to become the first Asian-American to command a US Army division. General “Mook” is the author of Faith, Family & Flag: Memoirs of an Unlikely American Samurai Crusader. Here he is to tell the story of the Japanese who fought for the United States in WWII. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, you can delegate authority - yet responsibility remains with you, the leader. Hear lessons that make a difference from Former U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, author of Risks and Returns: Creating Success in Business and Life. His career flourished thanks to hard work, mentorship, and many other blessings worthy of study.HS Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories,  Carter Momsen-Hudson from Hillsborough, North Carolina, started walking on the Appalachian Trail not knowing if he could actually finish the 2,000 mile trek. The encounters he had along the way spawned a spiritual journey that would take him to a place that he would have never imagined. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the crew of Apollo 8 and Steve Kates tell the story of their Christmas time mission to the moon--and the reading of Genesis over its surface. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the morning of September 11, 2001, Peter Braxton was the first military pilot in the air over the burning Twin Towers. It was his first day on the job. Here’s Peter sharing some stories from a few of his first jobs including his first job after serving in the Air Force. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, author James Ward (Zero Victim: Overcoming Injustice With a New Attitude) describes the pivotal moment in third grade that transformed his life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, everyone knows that a horse can jump a good-sized fence - but the folks in Pea Ridge, Arkansas thought whether a mule could do it was much more interesting. Here's the story of how their unique competition started. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, from the time he was a boy, Merian C. Cooper wanted to be an adventurer, a wish that propelled him into journalism, the National Guard, military aviation, and two world wars. Amid these, he became a movie producer and writer, working on some cinematic classics, including King Kong in 1933. He even played one of the pilots in the film. Here again, to tell this "Hollywood Goes to War" story is Roger McGrath.   Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Abercrombie and Fitch clothing apparel stores conquered malls in the late '90s and early '00s with gorgeous models, pulsing dance beats and a fierce scent. What most people don’t know is that the company was founded in 1892 in New York City as an outfitter for elite outdoorsmen. Here to tell the whole story is Ashley Hlebinsky. Ashley is the former co-host of Discovery Channel’s “Master of Arms,” the former curator in charge of the Cody Firearms Museum and the co-Founder of the University of Wyoming College of Law’s Firearms Research Center. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here’s Bill “Engineer Guy” Hammack telling the story of how Betamax was defeated by the VHS tape. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, when Lanae Strovers was given the job of figuring out what to do with unclaimed urns at the funeral home she worked at, she took it personally...but that would make sense for someone who got into the mortuary business for personal reasons. Give her story a listen! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, like so many fatherless children, Blair Linne had a hole in her heart. She had a loving mom, but went from home to home to home (25 in all) in her search for stability and a family she could call her own. Here's her story of ending a generational curse. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin is in a glass coffin...but so is an American man along the shores of Lake Michigan. Chris Siriano tells this curious story about the coffin, the man inside of it, and the harebrained scheme to steal his diamond necklace. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, this is the story of how identical twin brothers—a doctor and a lawyer—collaborated with scores of unsung heroes to modernize emergency medical services, help create the physician assistant profession, help write the model law for organ donation and develop other programs that save thousands of lives every year. Here’s Alfred and Blair Sadler with their story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here to tell the second part of his Texas anthropology series is Monte Monroe, the official Texas State Historian. Today Monte shares with us how Texas joined the Union, and how the spirit of Texan "independence" became a thing. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 2017, Rhode Islander Joe Jutras broke the record for the largest giant green squash ever grown- it came in at 2,118 lbs. Today Joe shares all that goes into growing these giant fruits. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, why do we participate in these strange celebrations every Halloween? Lesley Bannatyne is the author of Halloween: An American Holiday, An American History, and Lisa Morton is the author of Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, we’ve all heard of gunslingers “Wild” Bill Hickok, Doc Holliday, and Billy The Kid. These quick-draw legends had nothing on Bob Munden. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
15
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, official Texas State Historian Monte Monroe, as well as Rachel Halversen and Anne Clare, tell the story of President James K. Polk, and why his one term in office managed to beat out most presidents who served two. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
14
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Sam Goodwin had traveled to 180 countries, and Syria was to be number 181. Two hours into his adventurous visit there, a total transformation of his life began. His book is Saving Sam, and his website is https://www.samrgoodwin.com — Here's Sam with his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Peter Funt shares the enthralling growth of a billion-dollar business. Hear the journey from the early GOPPPL days to an integral part of the NFL marketing plan. Peter's book is Inside Fantasy Football: America's Favorite Non-Contact Sport Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, going Ga-Ga for automobiles happened to Miles Collier as to so many - in an instant. Now Miles runs the world's best car museum, and wrote The Archaeological Automobile, a book about American material culture, the material remnants we leave behind as we travel through time. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, many know that Elvis grew up singing in his church choir - and he would lead the charts with hit songs through many years. Hear from another music legend, Pat Boone - who grew musically by leading a large church choir, a capella - and would top the charts for an even longer stretch than Elvis. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Walter Gretzky died at the age of 82. His death prompted an avalanche of tributes for a genuine, approachable, authentic person who nurtured the unsurpassed hockey talents of his son, Wayne Gretzky, on the family's famed backyard rink in Brantford, Ontario. The 60-year-old NHL legend-turned-American citizen spoke shortly after laying his father to rest. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in part 3 of our 5-part series, we hear Favre get very personal about his miraculous Monday Night Football game immediately following his father’s passing. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, you've heard that you "Don't Mess With Texas." This story from our regular listener/contributor Roger Latham, from Fort Worth, Texas, exemplifies that statement. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Sgt. Joe L. Wrightsman was not only Lance Cpl. (Ret.) Tom Morton's mentor, he was a hero of the highest caliber who died trying to save an Afghani Police Officer from drowning in the Helmand River. Here's Tom to tell the story of the worst day of his life, and how he came to find peace after it. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, pinball is an iconic game. Jeremy Saucier of the Strong Museum of Play shares the surprising story--from pinball's origins in French parlor games, to its prohibition, to its emergence as the popular game that it is today. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the National Park Service in New York City was not taking measures to protect and preserve the tomb of General Ulysses S. Grant. Fortunately, Frank Scattoro had the initiative and the intensity to change that, against all obstacles. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Robert Frohlich tells the story of his grandfather, a German-born immigrant who handled warhorses as a World War I conscript - and helped the United States win World War II. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, since John Collins was young, he has loved paper airplanes. This obsession helped him achieve the Guinness World Record for the farthest flight by a paper aircraft at 226 feet and 10 inches. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tracy Grant, the former managing editor at the Washington Post, shares the story of why the days taking care of her dying husband were the best 7 months of her life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, hear the opportunities Pat Boone had to do something more important than his television show, and perhaps even his life - insisting, come what may, to not perpetuate bigotry. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Sgt. Alvin York— the reluctant World War I infantryman who became an American legend—has stood as a symbol of courage and sacrifice for over a century. The Tennessee mountaineer whose religious convictions at first kept him from fighting became the recipient of the Medal of Honor and nearly 50 other decorations for single handedly capturing (132) or killing (28) an entire German machine‐gun battalion. Here to tell the story is JD Phillips, who runs the popular YouTube channel, The Appalachian Storyteller. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Marilyn Jensen tells the harrowing story of when her father went on a supply run amidst a German bombing. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, this largely lost story is rekindled by Chicago historian Tim Samuelson, the first cultural historian of Chicago. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, defeating the Nazi menace would take more than strength and tactics. It required the Allies giving them lots of completely accurate Allied secrets, for years. The late great Stephen Ambrose tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, two enemies: One led Japan’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor; the other was an American Doolittle Raider who bombed Tokyo. Here to tell the story is Carol Aiko DeShazer Dixon—the daughter of Doolittle Raider Jacob DeShazer. She is the author of Return of the Raider: A Doolittle Raider’s Story of War & Forgiveness. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Art Burton, the author of countless books on African Americans in the West, tells the story of one of the most feared outlaws in the Indian Territory. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Nancy Bro of the GAR Cemetery in Miami, Oklahoma shares the stories of the unique and colorful characters buried within it...including a rodeo star, veterans of the Union and Confederate armies, and a few British pilots. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
8
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here’s Major Brian Shul with his legendary story known today as the “LA Speed Check.” Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, some believe he was the most important composer of the 20th century, in or out of jazz. Terry Teachout, one of America's best culture writers and author of Duke: A Life of Duke Ellington, tells the story of the jazz legend, his music, his struggles, his triumphs and so much more. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Greg McDonald got his start in show business as a teenager after meeting Elvis Presley and his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, shortly after Parker began managing Elvis in the ‘50s. Here’s Greg with the stories. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Halloween expert Lisa Morton is going to be unpacking the history of the Halloween Haunted House, which is directly tied into today’s practice of Trick-or-Treating. Lisa is the author of Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween. By the turn of the 20th century, Halloween in America was nothing more than a day of pranking—kind of like April Fools' Day. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the choice of three then-minor league hockey players to play the Hanson Brothers in "Slap Shot" starring Paul Newman was a casting hat-trick. When Dave "Killer" Hanson—was drafted for the movie, the Hanson brothers were born. This is his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
7
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Kemmons Wilson Jr. tells the story of how his father (Kemmons Wilson) created a hotel chain that established the modern hotel industry. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the life of the youngest-ever winner of the Nobel Prize for literature, Rudyard Kipling, was filled with tragedy. He survived a difficult childhood to go on to become one of the most celebrated authors of his day, penning such classics as "The Jungle Book" and "Just So Stories.” Here’s The History Guy with the story of Rudyard Kipling. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1944, Peter Ortiz parachuted into Nazi-occupied France, where the Gestapo offered a reward of half a million francs for his capture. The actor—who appeared in many classic John Ford Westerns was also a two-time recipient of the Navy Cross. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
4
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, "On the outside I looked pretty good, but inside, I felt like I was dying." Tim Hennessey was appalled at his late 30s experience and went to a doctor, and came home with a big decision to make. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Brad Server grew up watching The Three Stooges on TV, not knowing he was related to one of the greatest comics of all time. Every day after school, Brad, his brother, and their friends would pile in front of the television to watch their idol, Jerome Howard, best known as “Curly.” Then, one day, the secret about their unknown grandfather was unveiled. Here’s Brad Server (aka “Curly G”) with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, relatively few women went with the initial stampedes to new mineral discoveries throughout the American frontiers. None went unescorted to so many remote, perilous places as Nellie Cashman—or until the age 80, as Nellie did. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the morning of September 11, 2001, Peter Braxton was the first military pilot in the air over the burning Twin Towers. It was his first day on the job. Here’s one harrowing story from Peter's Air Force pilot training. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a legend and leader in the hotel world, Horst Schulze has reshaped how service and hospitality are defined in business—standards that have become world-famous. Throughout the years he worked for both Hilton Hotels and Hyatt Hotels Corporation before becoming one of the founding members of the luxury hotel chain, The Ritz Carlton, in 1983. Horst is a Christian who lives out his faith in both his business and personal life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
3
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph shares this vivid story about how he helped the ladies who lived on LA's notorious Skid Row. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Bruce may be Chinese-born, but as you are about to hear, he’s all American. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you’re curious enough, the familiar can become fascinating. Bill Bryk briefly recounts how New York City became the city it is today, as well as his love for its past. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the History Guy remembers a truly extraordinary Civil War heroine, Mary Edwards Walker. She was the only woman in U.S. history to be awarded the Medal of Honor. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
2
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jeffery Johnson, author of Super-History: Comic Book Superheroes and American Society, tells the story of how the events that shaped America over the course of the 20th century intersected with comic books. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, “Wild Bill" Donovan was one of America’s most exciting and secretive generals—the man President Franklin Roosevelt made his top spy in World War II. “Wild” Bill was the director of the Office of Strategic Services (the country’s first national intelligence agency). He is known as the founding father of both the CIA and the military's Special Operations Forces—along with being credited as the father of psychological and cyber warfare. Here to tell the story is Douglas Waller. He is the author of the bestseller, Wild Bill Donovan: The Spymaster Who Created the OSS and Modern American Espionage. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the Brooklyn Bridge, with its unprecedented length and two stately towers, was dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world.” The connection it provided between the massive population centers of Brooklyn and Manhattan changed the course of New York City forever. Here's the History Guy with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Ambrose was one of America’s leading biographers and historians. Ambrose passed away in 2002 but his epic storytelling accounts can now be heard here at Our American Stories thanks to those who run his estate. Our next story is the story of weapons used in WWII. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct
1
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ritz-Carlton founder Horst Schulze reshaped how service and hospitality are defined in business. He tells a short story about how great service wins - excellence wins - and bad service kills businesses. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Ted Widmer sits down with Lee Habeeb to discuss his book, Lincoln on the Verge: 13 Days to Washington. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Kathy Cooley shares the story of how her late son, Christopher, led his family to faith and founding their organization: The Christopher Foundation. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
30
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1961, McDonald County, Missouri found a unique way to show their dissatisfaction with their state government. Dwight Pouge, who saw it all from the ground, tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
27
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Loretto M. Thompson recounts her significant yet distant memories of her father - and how she grew to know him so much better by reading his letters from his service in World War Two. Her book is called An Unexpected Coddiwomple: The Story of a Father's Sudden Death, a Box of WWII Letters, and a Daughter's Life Transformed. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Nellie Bly was a writer, industrialist, inventor, and a charity worker who was widely known for her record-breaking trip around the world in 72 days in 1890. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Coors Banquet is really good...no, really good, and its story began with a German immigrant living in a Colorado mining town. Pete Coors tells the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Ambrose was one of America’s leading biographers and historians. Ambrose passed away in 2002 but his epic storytelling accounts can now be heard here at Our American Stories thanks to those who run his estate. Our next story is the story of weapons used in WWII. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Brett Favre, during his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction speech in 2016, takes us back to the day after his dad, Irvin, died in December, 2003—a day the Green Bay quarterback threw for 399 yards and four touchdowns in an unforgettable win over the Oakland Raiders. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
26
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, becoming masters of the skies has come at a cost. Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge stepped up for service against enemies, nature, and machine as one of the world's first test pilots. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tim Harford, author of the bestselling book 50 Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, shares the stories of three inventions that changed the way we live today. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, our host, Lee Habeeb, tells his wife's story. Decades after years of sexual abuse and crisis, Valerie leaned on her faith to forgive her abuser, and to powerfully heal. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jeremy Swick of the College Football Hall of Fame recounts the remarkable story of the street dog turned soldier turned mascot. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, JD Phillips tells the story of Ches McCartney, the man who traversed the United States in a ramshackle wagon drawn by a herd of Goats. His mission was to travel the country, spread the word of God, and have a few adventures (and misadventures) along the way. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, tank strategists involved with winning World War I favored a supporting role for tanks. In the 1930s, the losers were about to get aggressively creative. Hear from Stephen Ambrose about the "Queen of the Battlefield," and the realities of war and victory. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
25
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the United States Postal Service was established in 1792. It’s hard to believe that a service that was created over two centuries ago is still used by everyone every day. But what’s even more shocking is that there was actually a lot of debate about whether there should even be a federal post office in the first place… Here’s Daniel Piazza of the Smithsonian National Postal Museum with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, for much of his early life, success and status were the driving factors of Neil White's life. This mindset led him to being imprisoned for a white-collar crime in Carville, Louisiana. But this wasn't any normal prison... Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jerre Stead, who's been the CEO of 10 publicly traded companies and has served on 37 corporate boards, shares with us how his lofty business career began at the age of 9, delivering newspapers in the early morning hours in Iowa. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jay Moore tells us an emotional story of meeting a real life World War II hero before going to see Saving Private Ryan for a second time in theaters. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
24
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Seuss was raised as a Lutheran and had a strong religious background. His books often included strong moral messages… but, he was always very careful with how he went about it. Here to share a bit about Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” and “The Grinch” is Brian Jay Jones, author of Becoming Dr. Seuss: Theodor Geisel and the Making of an American Imagination. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Jonathan Alexandratos is a toy historian whose knowledge was featured in the film, Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids. Here’s Jonathan with the story of the Cabbage Patch Kids and how they set the wheels in motion for modern-day Black Friday. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The History Guy remembers when explorers raced to go where no one had gone before, Amundsen, Byrd, and the future of aviation. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Texas boys don’t write poetry, and certainly don’t cry. Roger Latham did, though, after discovering a poem written by his deceased mother. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
23
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Theodore Schwartz is an attending neurological surgeon and professor of neurological surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine in NYC, one of the busiest and highest ranked neurosurgery centers in the world. His book, "Gray Matters: A Biography of Brain Surgery" is part memoir and part medical history and tells a compelling story of the life of a neurosurgeon, alongside a compelling history of brain surgery itself. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the day Pearl Harbor was attacked, FDR's speechwriting team wasn't in Washington. Roosevelt, with the help of a few aides, penned the most important speech of his presidency, and one of the most important speeches in American history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1902, the first successful, commercially available gun silencer was invented by Hiram Percy Maxim. He also developed mufflers for internal combustion engines using much the same technology. Maxim was an American inventor, graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and son of Sir Hiram Stevens Maxi— inventor of the first portable, fully automatic machine gun. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Lowell Lytle has been one of the privileged few who has seen Titanic first-hand. Lowell has played the part of Captain Smith at Titanic events all over the globe and has been entertaining guests at the Titanic Museum for more than fifteen years. He is also the author of the inspiring read, Diving Into The Deep. Here’s Lowell Lytle to tell his story and the story of The Titanic’s Last Hero. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1974, Patricia Hearst—heiress of the William Randolph Hearst newspaper empire—was abducted by an American far-left militant organization… but she eventually joined their cause. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Larry Arnn, President of Hillsdale College and a Churchill scholar, tells the story of Winston Churchill on Education. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
20
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Bruce Wigo—the former CEO of the International Swimming Hall of Fame—is here to share a story of an unknown American WWII hero. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, after a career in the Marines, Mike Joens worked for some of the most successful animation studios (Hanna Barbera and Marvel Productions). He left Marvel to produce and direct “McGee and Me" and animated “Adventures in Odyssey.” Finally, after 30 years, “Theo Presents” was released. Mike tells his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, most know the now famous line from the film Apocalypse Now, which showed Robert Duvall standing in a bombed-out field saying: "I love the smell of napalm in the morning.” The man who actually said that was Colonel David Hackworth. Here's his story! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a tragic event brought a racist (Wallace) and a radical (Chisholm) together and forged an unlikely alliance. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the story of Richard King and his "King Ranch" has much to tell us about America. Here is the pulse of the national epic of cattle and cowboys, ranchers and horses, a vast fortune created out of the oldest source of wealth there is, land and cattle. Roger McGrath brings us the story along with William Yancey from Texas A&M University, Kingsville. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
19
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the new Constitution was an experiment—a unplayed sheet of music— and we wouldn't know what it would look like in actuality until people picked up their instruments. Here to tell the story of the first real test is Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, renowned historian David McCullough answers the question - about a most extraordinary group of men at a most extraordinary time in world history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here is Dr. Larry Arnn, President of Hillsdale College, with your daily briefing on the foundational claims - and the founding stakes - of the American system of government. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories,The Constitution didn't just become the law of the land overnight—it took some convincing. Here to tell the story of the work that most influenced the Founders - The Federalist Papers - is Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
18
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a bill of rights depends on a government that actually manifests restraint. Otherwise, Justice Scalia suggests, it is just a bill of goods. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Eruzione recounts the unlikely circumstances that led to his amazing career on ice, the legendary upset against the Soviets, his game-winning goal, and winning the gold medal. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Ambrose was one of America’s leading biographers and historians. Ambrose passed in 2002, but his epic storytelling accounts can now be heard here at Our American Stories thanks to those who run his estate. Our next story is the story of weapons used in WWII. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Leven was President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp. One of the great hoteliers of all time—a legend in his business. He is also what you would call a “wise man.” Here’s Mike Leven with the story: The bigger the bureaucracy, the smaller the customer. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the Union Soldiers at Andersonville Prison were near starvation, and dehydration, when prayer saved thousands of lives. If you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
17
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, just decades following the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787, trailblazers called “mountain men” headed west. These adventurers gave rise to new American heroes… and new enemies. Here to tell the story is Roger McGrath. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in the 30th Episode of our Story of America Series with Dr. Bill McClay, author of Land of Hope, Bill reads and explains one of President Lincoln's greatest accomplishments—The Emancipation Proclamation. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, listener and regular contributor Brent Timmons tells the story of spending time with his Uncle Bud in the final days of his life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Olivia Hooker tells the story of how and why she joined the U.S. Coast Guard. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Tim Harford, an economist and best selling author of Fifty Inventions That Shaped the Modern Economy, tells the story of these three underappreciated inventions in history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
16
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, an American candy store in 1900 looked very different than it does today. Candy was a special treat sold almost exclusively in candy stores. Even though there were plenty of sweets to choose from, Milton Hershey knew one thing was missing: chocolate—a rarity outside of Europe. Here to tell the story is Don Papson, President and Executive Director at The M.S. Hershey Foundation, and Amy Zeigler, Sr. Director of The Hershey Story Museum. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Johnny Cash is an American original, and this story is an insider’s look at the man whose music sprang from the way he lived. Pastor Greg Laurie is here to tell the story from his recent book/documentary, Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon. Cash died on September 12th, 2003. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Kirk Higgins, the Senior Director of Content at the Bill of Rights Institute, tells the story of the prime time showdown between anti-communist senator Joseph McCarthy and CBS reporter Edward R. Murrow. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Rusiniak shares the story about his four legged family member that helped him and his wife through their struggle with infertility. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, one thing that cannot be downplayed is the emotion Sergeant Bob Alaniz carries to this day knowing that the morning he fingerprinted Richard Ramirez’s hands, he was holding the hands of a serial killer. Here's Bob to tell the story, along with regular contributor Ashley Hlebinsky. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
13
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener, Joy Neal Kidney, shares her mother's story about how she became the wife of an officer during World War II. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, 9/11 firefighter Niels Jorgensen and billionaire David Koch, and the tragedies that brought them together. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener Jocelyn Green tells the story of what she learned about faith and friendship after coming in contact with the devastation at the Pentagon—not far from her home. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on September 11th, 2001, more people were evacuated from Lower Manhattan than Dunkirk on FDNY fireboats, tugboats, and pleasure boats. Here's the story of that remarkable response. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Howard Lutnick, the CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, tells the story of the company's worst tragedy..and their remarkable response after. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, President Ronald Reagan's Chief Speechwriter and Pulitzer Prize Winning journalist Tony Dolan pays tribute to America's fallen soldiers. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
12
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the crew at Our American Stories assembled a vast array of news reports of 9/11 as it unfolded. Here are those accounts. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the rivalry between Michigan and Ohio actually dates back to before the days of football. Tedd Long, curator and founder of Holy Toledo History, tells the story of how war broke out between Michigan and Ohio over a small mapping error. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Our American Stories listener Bill Bryk gives us a tour of his local cemetery in Antrim, New Hampshire—and paints a picture of people buried there, and their lives well lived. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, it's a family story, a business story, and a regional story; It's the story of how the Goo Goo cluster became the official candy of Nashville! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in this dramatic reading, American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow immortalized Old North Church and Paul Revere in American folklore and cemented their place in American history. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, on the morning of September 11, 2001, Peter Braxton was the first military pilot in the air over the burning Twin Towers. It was his first day on the job. Peter’s here to tell his story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, The Museum of Bad Art is one of a kind...here to tell the story is one of its founding members. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
11
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, A favorite listener of the show from Des Moines, Joy Neal Kidney, tells the story of why her uncle, Danny Wilson, was buried three times. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, the term "hobo" is often confused with "homeless" or "beggar", but the truth is, wandering through life was what they preferred. Connecticut Shorty of The Hobo Museum shares the story of the American hobo and how they are still celebrated today. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, she started selling moonshine at 17, and spent the rest of her very long life (she lived to 101) perfecting her business model and putting several local kids through college. She was so popular local juries wouldn't convict her! J.D. Phillips, the Appalachian Storyteller, tells the story of Maggie Bailey. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
10
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, miles and miles of wire placed on ships and thrown into the ocean connected the world like never before and would help determine the outcomes of World Wars and beyond. John Steele Gordan tells the story of how the Transatlantic Cable came to be. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, President of Hillsdale College, Dr. Larry Arnn, tells the story of our fourth president, James Madison. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, it was one of the oddest and best musical collaborations of the 20th century. Old school pop crooner Bing Crosby partnered with British glam-rocker David Bowie to make one of the most cherished Christmas songs of all time. But it almost didn't happen. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, commitment to serve others better is a hallmark of American life. Add a sensible new design, honest pricing, and the never ending journey of mechanical engineering - and we now have another key player in the forces behind public safety. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, here's the story of Alanzo Cushing as told by those who fought to have him recognized long after he fell at Gettysburg. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, slavery is one of the oldest profit-making endeavors, and the Irish were a special target for a thousand years. Colin D. Heaton, a military veteran and a host of the YouTube channel, "Forgotten History," tells us the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language. The book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, much of what’s known about legendary NFL quarterback Brett Favre has been kept between the goal posts. So Greg Hengler sat down with Brett Favre in his Hattiesburg, Mississippi, home where Brett shared stories about humility, aging, and faith, in this fourth part of his five part series. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
9
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, a listener from Colorado tells her remarkable Elvis story about the time she met the King not once but twice in an 8 hour period! Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Steve Stoliar grew up as the ultimate Marx Brothers fan. Little did he know that he would lead the charge to save one of their long-lost movies. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Randall Wallace is the writer/director of films such as Braveheart, We Were Soldiers, The Man in the Iron Mask, Heaven is For Real, Pearl Harbor, and Secretariat. Here he is to share a story about Penny Chenery, owner of the 1973 Triple Crown winner—a Thoroughbred named Secretariat. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, who is the author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America: Defining Moments That Shaped Our Enduring Foundation of Faith. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, while in modern times, we often view prohibition as a failure and even a misstep by fanatics, it’s far more complex than that. Travis Spangenburg, Creative and Production Manager for the American Prohibition Museum in Savannah, GA tells the story of this complex time in America’s past. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, George Washington was not our first President? Here’s Christopher Klein with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
6
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. E. Wesley Ely of Vanderbilt University Medical Center shares intensely meaningful experiences, spiritual and all, from a patient's suddenly-shortened last days in this life. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mark McCray is the author of The Best Saturdays of Our Lives. Here he is to tell us the story of Saturday morning cartoons... and answer the all-important question: what happened to them? Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Dr. Jerry Bergman tells the story of a teenage boy who became interested in snow. On January 15, 1885, at 20 years of age, he became the first person in the world to photograph a snowflake. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Major General "Mook" Mukoyama volunteered and served in Korea and Vietnam. In 1986, he became the youngest General in the Army at that time. Soon after he was promoted to Major General, commanding the 70th Training Division during Desert Storm. Retired now, he spends his time serving our Veterans Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, George Will tells the story of Ted Williams. He also tells the story of a San Francisco fisherman, Joe DiMaggio, his “Streak” of a hit in 56 consecutive games, and his steely determination. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, in Vietnam, the armored personnel carrier Jon Hovde was driving hit an anti-tank mine. The 20-year-old soldier made three promises to God if He would let him live. Linda from Jon’s hometown of Fertile, MN, is here to tell the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sep
5
2024
On this episode of Our American Stories, Mike Leven was President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Corp... one of the great hoteliers of all time—a legend in his business. He is also what you would call a “wise man.” Here’s Mike telling the story about how he—a Jew—started the Asian American Hotel Owners Association. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.