Say It With History Podcast

Introducing Season 1 of Say It With History: Conversations That Shaped the Past. In this podcast, I talk with authors, artists, and storytellers whose work is rooted in history. From unsung trailblazers to cultural icons, these conversations show how the past still shapes the present. Check out the trailer here!

Hollywood’s Golden Age was not all glitz and glamour. Author Martin Turnbull joined me to talk about the personal sacrifices behind fame, the power and control of the studio system, and how he brings that world to life through his Garden of Allah novels. Together, we explore the real stories behind the silver screen and the price of chasing stardom. Tune in here.​

Pat Nixon is often overlooked, yet her story reveals a First Lady of resilience and influence. Biographer Heath Hardage Lee joined me to discuss The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon, exploring Pat’s Western roots, her quiet but powerful role in diplomacy, and the legacy she left behind. Discover a new side of history in this conversation.​

The American Revolution was fought not only on battlefields but in the shadows of espionage. Historian Aly Riley joined me to uncover the overlooked world of female spies, from hidden intelligence networks to the enduring mystery of Agent 355. Listen here to discover how women shaped the fight for independence in ways history tried to forget.​

Civics shapes how we understand democracy and one another. Educator and political analyst Paul Rader joined me to unpack why civic education matters more than ever—exploring how history, polarization, and public engagement intersect. Tune in to hear how reconnecting with our civic roots can help rebuild trust and strengthen democracy.​​

America’s social safety net is often discussed through policies and programs, but its real story lies with the women who built it. Historian and Civics & Coffee host Alycia Asai joined me to explore the lives of reformers like Frances Perkins and the caseworkers who brought compassion and care into public policy. From leadership to lasting legacy, this episode uncovers the human side of America’s welfare system — and the women who made it possible.

In this episode, I talk to Voncher Walker about the inspiring work she and her brother Debron are doing to restore the Eleanor Roosevelt School—the last Rosenwald School ever built. We explore the school's origins, the role of FDR and the Warm Springs community, and their powerful efforts to preserve this landmark of Black history. Check it out here. 

Community history is more than memories—it’s a way of seeing the world. Public historian and preservationist Shae Corey joined me to talk about her Holy Local Podcast, the power of oral history, the impact of spiritual activism on D.C. neighborhoods, and how she captures community voices through storytelling. Listen to the full conversation here.

The Gilded Age shaped America with dazzling wealth and deep inequality. Historian Matthew Hild joined me to explore its echoes in today’s politics and economy, and to share how his research also led him into the world of pop culture icons like Andy Gibb and Olivia Newton-John. Discover the surprising connections between past and present in this conversation.​

Behind every song lies a story of memory, place, and the people who shaped it. Historian and curator Melissa Ziobro joined me to explore Bruce Springsteen’s legacy—from Springsteen: His Hometown to his connections to the Vietnam War—and how his music keeps memory alive. Tune in here to uncover how New Jersey history, patriotism, and rock ’n’ roll intertwine.​

Ancient Egypt is often reduced to pharaohs and pyramids, yet its real stories lie far beyond the tombs. Egyptologist and museum educator Melissa in De Nile joined me to discuss her journey from childhood fascination to professional scholarship, exploring the daily lives of ordinary Egyptians, her research on dogs in Egyptian culture, and the lasting intrigue of Amarna. Discover a more personal side of Ancient Egypt in this conversation.