Time Tellers

Time Tellers #17 "Fire and Fury: The Tragic Tale of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire"

In this gripping episode of Time Tellers, we journey back to the bustling streets of early 20th-century New York City, where the promise of the American Dream met the harsh realities of immigrant life. At the heart of this narrative stands the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory, a symbol of ambition and exploitation, teetering on the brink of disaster.
On a fateful March afternoon in 1911, a spark ignited a tragedy that would forever alter the landscape of American labor laws. As flames engulfed the factory, workers faced a desperate struggle for survival amidst locked doors and inadequate escape routes. Hear the echoes of their stories, the cries for help, and the heroic efforts of those who tried to save them.
Witness the aftermath of the fire, as a city mourns and rallies for justice. Meet the reformers who emerged from the ashes, determined to honor the lives lost with lasting change. This is not just a tale of devastation, but a testament to human resilience and the enduring fight for workers' rights.
Join us as we unravel the events leading up to the fire, the courageous acts in its midst, and the profound impact it had on a nation. Discover how a single, tragic day sparked a movement that reshaped the very fabric of American society.

Time Tellers #16: "Voices of Change: The Seneca Falls Convention of 1848"

Step into the summer of 1848 with Timetellers, as we journey to a small town in upstate New York, where a gathering of bold women and supportive men changed the course of American history. This episode brings to life the story of the Seneca Falls Convention, a defining moment in the fight for women's rights, where the first public call for equality, suffrage, and justice for women resonated through the halls of the Wesleyan Chapel.
Discover the social upheavals of mid-19th century America, from abolitionism to the temperance and early labor movements, and the pivotal events that led to the convention. Meet the remarkable figures like Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, whose resolve for change was ignited by their exclusion from the World Anti-Slavery Convention of 1840, and their determination to bring women's voices to the forefront of reform.
As we explore the bold demands of the Declaration of Sentiments, modeled after the Declaration of Independence, experience the passionate debates and the fierce advocacy for women's suffrage, including the powerful support from abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Though the convention did not bring immediate change, it sparked a nationwide conversation and inspired future conventions, laying the groundwork for the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920.
Join us as we reflect on the enduring legacy of the Seneca Falls Convention, a testament to the power of collective action and the ongoing struggle for equality that continues to shape our world today. Celebrate the courage of those who dared to challenge the status quo, and the ripple effects of their actions that still echo in our fight for justice and equality for all.

Time Tellers #15: "Balloonfest '86"

Time Tellers #14: "Halloween Unmasked"

Step into the eerie world of Halloween with "Time Tellers," where we unravel the captivating history behind one of the most beloved celebrations. Journey back over 2,000 years to the misty Celtic landscapes, where the ancient festival of Samhain marked a time when the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest. Discover the rich tapestry of traditions—from bonfires that lit the way for spirits to costumes crafted from animal skins to ward off the supernatural.Travel across continents and centuries as we explore how Halloween evolved, blending pagan and Christian customs into the All Hallows' Eve we know today. Unearth the stories behind iconic symbols like the jack-o'-lantern, inspired by the haunting tale of Stingy Jack, and witness how Irish immigrants transformed turnips into pumpkins in the New World.Venture into the vibrant festivals of Mexico's Dia de los Muertos and Japan's Oban, where the dead are honored in colorful and joyous celebrations. From the solemn observances of Italy's All Saints' Day to the spirited Hungry Ghost Festival in China, Halloween's influence spans the globe, each tradition adding its own unique flavor to the celebration of life and death.Join us as we delve into Halloween's transformation in America, from the early colonial days to the bustling community events of the 19th century. See how the holiday grew into a commercial spectacle, capturing the imagination of children and adults alike. Discover the cultural impact of Halloween-themed movies, books, and shows that continue to enchant audiences with tales of the macabre and the magical.Whether you're a fan of the spooky, the silly, or the sentimental, this episode promises to enchant and enlighten, offering a glimpse into the past and a celebration of the season's enduring spirit. Tune in to "Time Tellers" and let the haunting tales of Halloween weave their magic on you.

Time Tellers Mini #4 "The Sheepman: A Haunting Legend of American Folklore"

Join hosts Renee and Dan in this captivating episode of Time Tellers as they unravel the eerie legend of the Sheepman, a creature that has haunted the imaginations of rural America for decades. Journey with them to Loveland, Ohio, a quaint town nestled along the Little Miami River, where the legend first took root in the 1950s. Imagine the dense woods and winding roads where anything could lurk beyond the edge of your headlights.
As the story unfolds, discover the chilling encounters and whispered tales of a humanoid figure with the head of a sheep, known for its glowing eyes and formidable strength. From mysterious sightings in Ohio to spine-tingling encounters in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and beyond, the Sheepman's legend stretches across the Appalachian region, weaving a trail of fear and fascination.
Delve into the folklore and conspiracy theories surrounding this cryptid, from tales of government experiments gone awry during the Cold War to the haunting possibility of a spirit or ghostly entity. Each story adds a layer of intrigue to the enigmatic Sheepman, leaving listeners questioning what lies beyond the realm of the known.
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode invites you to explore the depths of human fear and curiosity. Tune in for a spine-chilling narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat and remind you to always watch the shadows. Who knows what might be lurking there?

Time Tellers #13: "The Wendigo: Spirit of the Wilderness"

Welcome back to Time Tellers, where the air is crisp, the nights grow longer, and the tales we weave are as chilling as the October wind. In today's episode, join hosts Renee and Dan as they embark on a spine-tingling journey through the cold, desolate forests of the North, where ancient legends and eerie creatures lurk in the shadows.
Our story leads us to the heart of the Wendigo myth, a terrifying figure from the folklore of the Algonquin-speaking tribes. This creature, embodying greed, isolation, and an insatiable hunger, has haunted the imaginations of generations. But is the Wendigo merely a story, or does it represent something far more sinister lurking within us all?
As we delve into the haunting lore that spans the dense forests of Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and beyond, we uncover tales of desperation, survival, and the thin line between humanity and monstrosity. From the legendary Wendigo psychosis of Swift Runner to modern interpretations of this chilling myth, we explore how the Wendigo continues to captivate our cultural psyche.
Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the Wendigo, a creature that serves as both a literal and symbolic warning against the perils of unchecked greed and isolation. Whether you're a fan of horror or folklore, this episode promises to leave you questioning what truly haunts the human spirit.
So grab your blankets, cozy up, and prepare for a tale that will chill you to the bone. As winter approaches, remember—stay warm, stay together, and beware the call of the Wendigo.

Election Day 2024: Your Vote is Your Voice

Welcome back to Timetellers, where Renee and Dan embark on a captivating journey through the complex and often tumultuous history of voting laws in the United States. With Election Day looming on November 5th, 2024, this episode dives into the past to uncover the pivotal moments that have shaped voting rights and explores why every vote matters more than ever today.
From the early days of limited suffrage, where only a select few could cast their ballots, to the groundbreaking amendments and landmark legislations like the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the hosts unravel a narrative filled with struggle, activism, and eventual triumph. Discover how the 15th and 19th Amendments paved the way for more inclusive voting, while recognizing the ongoing challenges and debates that continue to influence voter access in the modern era.
As Renee and Dan delve into the intricacies of voter registration, they provide practical insights for listeners, especially those in Pennsylvania, ensuring everyone is ready to make their voices heard. Through engaging storytelling, they remind us of the power and responsibility that come with the right to vote, urging us to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for this fundamental right.
Join them in this enlightening episode as they encourage civic engagement and emphasize the importance of participating in elections at every level. Share this episode to spread awareness and ensure that democracy thrives through active participation. Because history shows, the battle for the ballot is far from over, and together, we can shape the future.

Time Tellers Mini #3 "The Tale of the Pennsylvania Squonk: America's Most Pitiful Cryptid"

Welcome back to Time Tellers, where we delve into the forgotten, mysterious, and fascinating stories of the past. Join your hosts, Renee and Dan, as they journey into the heart of the Pennsylvania wilderness to uncover the poignant tale of a creature unlike any other—the Squonk.
Hidden among the dense hemlock forests, the Squonk weaves a story rooted not in terror or awe, but in pure, unrelenting sadness. In an episode filled with empathy and intrigue, we explore the legend of this tearful cryptid, whose existence reflects the environmental devastation of early 20th-century Pennsylvania and the universal human experience of insecurity and self-doubt.
As we navigate the Squonk's sorrowful history, from its origins in a 1910 field guide to its unexpected appearances in modern pop culture, you'll find yourself drawn into a tale that resonates with our deepest vulnerabilities. What happens when a creature weeps itself out of existence? And what does this melancholic legend reveal about our own struggles with identity and belonging?
Tune in for an episode that will tug at your heartstrings and invite you to see yourself in the Squonk's watery reflection. In the end, we are all a bit like the Squonk—searching for a place in the world and a story to tell. Grab a tissue, and let's embark on this melancholy journey together.

Time Tellers #12 "The Strange Case of the The Greenbrier Ghost"

Welcome to Time Tellers, where the past refuses to stay buried, and the whispers of history beckon us to listen closely. Join your host, Renee, and her co-host, Dan, as they unravel a tale that lies at the eerie crossroads of folklore and law. In this gripping episode, we journey back to the winter of 1897, amidst the snow-blanketed hills of Greenbrier County, West Virginia, where a chilling mystery unfolds.
Meet Elva Zona Hester, a young bride whose untimely death sets the stage for a courtroom drama unlike any other. When Zona's lifeless body is discovered at the foot of the stairs, her husband's overwhelming grief seems too theatrical to be genuine. As suspicions rise, it is her mother, Mary Jane Hester, who dares to challenge the silence of the grave. Driven by an unshakable conviction, Mary Jane claims her daughter's ghost returned to reveal the truth about her tragic demise.
With the courtroom caught between the tangible and the spectral, the Greenbrier Ghost Trial becomes a landmark case in American legal history. Unravel the threads of deceit, explore the spectral visitations, and witness a mother’s relentless pursuit of justice. Was it a ghost that solved the mystery, or a mother’s intuition cloaked in the supernatural?
As we delve into this haunting narrative, discover how the past speaks in echoes, and sometimes, the dead tell tales that demand to be heard. So, keep an eye on the shadows and listen closely—because in the world of Time Tellers, history and mystery collide in the most unexpected ways.

Time Tellers #11 The Salem Witch Trials: Hysteria in the Heart of Puritan New England

Step into the shadowy past with "Time Tellers," where hosts Renee and Dan unravel the chilling saga of the Salem Witch Trials, a dark chapter in early American history that forever haunts the pages of time. In the harsh winter of 1692, the Puritan settlement of Salem, Massachusetts, found itself engulfed in a whirlwind of paranoia and fear. With strange behavior spiraling into deadly accusations, twenty lives were claimed, and the community was left to grapple with the chaos born from their own fears and beliefs.
Join us as we set the stage in a world fraught with religious fervor and frontier challenges, where whispers of witchcraft ignited a wildfire of hysteria. Through the eyes of those entangled in this deadly web, we uncover the human stories, the tensions, and the rivalries that fueled the trials. As accusations spread like poison, no one was safe from the devastating power of suspicion.
Explore the societal unraveling as neighbors turned on neighbors, and even animals weren't spared from accusations of witchcraft. Witness the tragic tale of Giles Corey, whose defiance against the fanaticism of the trials became a symbol of resistance. As the frenzy peaked, reason began to prevail, leading to a sobering reflection on the dangers of fear and superstition.
Join us on this compelling journey back to 1692, where lessons from the past illuminate the present. Discover how the echoes of the Salem Witch Trials continue to resonate, reminding us of the fragile balance between fear and reason in the tapestry of history.