Time Tellers

Echoes of Valor: The History of Memorial Day

Dive into the fascinating history of Memorial Day, a day that transcends its modern image of barbecues and sales, to reveal its deep roots in American history. Initially known as Decoration Day, this commemorative holiday emerged in the immediate aftermath of the Civil War, reflecting a nation’s effort to honor its fallen soldiers.
Explore the early ceremonies, including a significant but often overlooked event organized by freed slaves in Charleston, South Carolina in 1865, which laid the symbolic groundwork for the Memorial Day we observe today. Learn about General John A. Logan's role in formalizing Decoration Day and the profound impact of the Grand Army of the Republic in post-war America.
As Memorial Day evolved into a national holiday, debates on its dates and observances have sparked passionate discussions across the country. Discover how this day of remembrance grew through the years, culminating in its federal recognition in the 1970s, all while preserving its solemnity amid a three-day weekend culture.
This episode also sheds light on the contemporary significance of Memorial Day. From Arlington National Cemetery's ceremonial tributes to modern expressions of remembrance, such as the Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally, Memorial Day continues to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, while educating new generations about its enduring importance.

America’s Forgotten Camel Corps

Join hosts Renee and Dan on another riveting exploration in "Time Tellers," as they unravel one of America's most peculiar military experiments—the U.S. Camel Corps. This fascinating tale unfolds amid the dusty deserts of the American Southwest, where camels became an unexpected asset in the mid-19th century military logistics.
As the nation expanded westward, traditional modes of transport faltered in the harsh climate, leading visionaries within the War Department to propose a truly unique solution. Enter the camels, brought from the sands of the Middle East to test their endurance and adaptability on American soil. But despite their remarkable capabilities, the camels faced a battle of acceptance.
With insights into the political ambitions of figures like Jefferson Davis and the colorful accounts of military officers, "The Forgotten Camel Corps" is a story rich in innovation, cultural clashes, and ultimately, the camels' fading into legend. It's a narrative that speaks to the heart of invention and the inevitable resistance to change.
Delve into this lesser-known chapter of history and discover the surprising legacy of these creatures in the American landscape, including the eerie legend of the 'Red Ghost' that roamed the plains long after their official deployment ended.

The Roads that built America

Welcome to Time Tellers, where pivotal moments in history reshape our present. In this episode, we journey through the fascinating narrative of the United States Interstate Highway System. Once muddy trails and fragmented paths, American roads transformed into veins of commerce and mobility.Experience a young Dwight D. Eisenhower's mud-caked nightmare during a grueling 62-day Army convoy, a journey sparking a future president’s crusade to revolutionize American roads. With highways envisioned through the eyes of military strategy and economic force, Eisenhower’s initiatives led to the largest infrastructure project in U.S. history, carving through the American landscape with sweeping changes.Delve into the untold stories of progress: communities displaced and cities altered, where the promise of growth met the shadows of loss. Hear voices of those whose lives intertwined with concrete, as well as those who viewed highways as a foundation of unity and a beacon of change.Join us as we unravel not just the asphalt paths that crisscross the nation but the powerful tales of ambition, sacrifice, and enduring legacy behind them. Whether it's the audacity of a bold 1956 highway act or the intimate voices from neighborhoods redefined, discover how roads echo more than the sounds of passing vehicles—they speak of shaping a nation. Enjoy the ride!

Weathering the storm: the radical rise and reckoning of the weather underground

Welcome to Time Tellers, where history is not just remembered but re-examined. In this riveting episode, we delve into one of the most controversial chapters of American protest history: the rise and radicalism of the Weather Underground Organization. This radical group, born from the anti-war movement of the 1960s, left an indelible mark on the nation's consciousness with their audacious bombing campaigns across major U.S. cities.
We explore the enigmatic story behind their violent metamorphosis, attempting to decipher what drove these young idealists to embrace such extreme methods. Their story is intertwined with major historical events and figures, from the Vietnam War and Black Panther alliances to the tragic explosion in a Greenwich Village townhouse.
Join us as we navigate the blurred lines between activism and extremism, unearthing the legacy they left behind—a legacy that continues to ignite debates about the definition and justification of protest and resistance.

The Papal Conclave: Secrets; Smoke; and Surprises

Join Dan and Renee on an enthralling journey into the heart of one of the most secretive and oldest elections in the world: the Papal Conclave. Discover how the Catholic Church elects a new pope through a blend of solemn traditions and surprising quirks that date back centuries.Delve into the fascinating process involving secret ballots, smoke signals, and the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals decide the future leader of the Catholic Church. Uncover eyebrow-raising stories from history, such as a three-year-long election and moments of high-stakes drama that kept the world holding its breath.From tailor-made robes waiting in anticipation to colorful anecdotes like the accidental appointment of multiple popes, this episode unwraps the mystery and ceremony behind the conclave. Get ready for a tale of tradition, secrecy, and a touch of drama, as this episode of Time Tellers offers you a closer look at history.

Breaking Point: The Rodney King Beating and the Riots that followed

Join hosts Renee and Dan in this gripping episode of Time Tellers as they take you on a heart-pounding journey back to the early ’90s, a time when America confronted one of its most unforgettable reckonings. Explore the turbulent events surrounding Rodney King, whose brutal beating by LAPD officers was captured on video and swiftly unleashed a storm of national outrage.
Dive into the courtroom drama that followed, where the quest for justice and the complexities of race relations in America clashed in a landmark trial. Hear the voices of jurors grappling with their decision, as well as the impassioned pleas from civil rights leaders like Jesse Jackson, who stepped forward to calm the storm and demand systemic change.
Witness the raw chaos of the Los Angeles riots that ensued, leaving a city in flames and marking a moment of intense racial tension fought not just between individuals, but through the lens of a community’s history of injustice. With insightful quotes and first-hand accounts, Renee and Dan examine how the echoes of this pivotal moment continue to resonate today, urging us to reflect and learn.

Celebrating Star Wars Day: Beyond the Force

Join your host Renee on this cosmic episode of Time Tellers, as we dive into the fascinating origins of Star Wars Day, celebrated every May 4th. What began as a simple pun in British politics evolved into a beloved fan holiday, embraced by millions across the globe. Discover the intriguing history behind "May the Fourth be with you," a celebration that wasn't birthed by George Lucas or the Jedi council but forged in the fires of fandom and internet culture.
From its humble beginnings in 1979 to becoming a major event at Disney parks, Star Wars Day is more than just an excuse to dust off your lightsabers and recite iconic lines. It's a testament to fan culture's power to create community and joy. Learn about the first official celebration in Toronto, the rise of internet memes, and even how astronauts bring the force to space.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious, this episode unfolds the rich tapestry of traditions—from movie marathons to cosplay to creative cuisine—that make May 4th a day to remember in any galaxy. Embrace your inner Jedi (or Sith!) and tune in for tales of iconic celebrations, space adventures, and of course, the inevitable film debates. May the force be with you as you enjoy this episode!

Echoes of exit: Vietnam; Watergate; and the unraveling of power

Welcome back to Timetellers, where the past has a voice and the echoes of history guide us forward. I'm one of your hosts, Renee, and today we're diving into one of the most turbulent chapters of the 20th century, a time when helicopters lifted off the U.S. Embassy rooftop in Saigon and a president in the White House listened to his downfall one tape at a time. This is the story of the U.S. Withdrawal from Vietnam, the release of the Nixon tapes, and how these two seemingly separate events were tied together by secrecy, power, and public trust.
The episode delves into the heart of the Vietnam War, a conflict that spanned nearly two decades, leaving deep scars on both American and Vietnamese soil. Witness the chaotic final days of Saigon, as desperate citizens scramble for hope amid an unrelenting tide of North Vietnamese forces. As the last U.S. troops took off, a different battle was waging behind closed doors.
Within the walls of the Oval Office, tapes spun, capturing the secret maneuvers of President Nixon amidst the unfolding Watergate scandal. Listen as the narrative intertwines two monumental events, pulling back the curtain on the era's unchecked power and the resulting crises of trust. Discover how these events reshaped national policy and consciousness, and their lasting impact on the American political landscape.

April 29, 1945: The War Collapses

Step back in time with us to April 29, 1945, a pivotal day in World War II marked by seismic shifts on multiple fronts. In this riveting episode, we unravel the tapestry of events leading to the collapse of the Nazi regime in Europe. From the solemn surrender negotiations in Italy to the harrowing liberation of Dachau, where the true horrors of the Nazi atrocities were laid bare, we delve into the final moments of a crumbling empire.
Join hosts Renee and Dan as they guide you through these historical turning points, offering deep insights into the intertwined destinies of nations and individuals. Experience the emotional weight of the liberators witnessing the unthinkable, the strategic betrayals within Hitler’s inner circle, and the symbolic demise of the Nazi war machine. This episode weaves together the human narratives of despair and defiance that shaped the end of an era.
Prepare for a gripping journey through the echoes of history, as we explore the day when the war in Europe began to truly unravel, leaving a legacy that continues to resonate. History is not just in the past; it’s the stories we tell, the lessons we learn, and the people we remember.

Let the Games Begin: The Birth of the Olympics

Step into a time machine with us as we journey back to April 1896, when the ancient tradition of the Olympic Games was reborn in Athens, Greece. Join host Renee and sidekick Dan as they bring to life the excitement of the first modern Olympic Games, a monumental event intertwining history, culture, and athletics into an unforgettable narrative.In this episode, we unravel the passion of Pierre de Coubertin, whose dream of reviving the Olympics came to fruition amidst cheering crowds and global excitement. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the opening ceremonies, where music and national pride filled the Panathenaic Stadium.From James Connolly's historic triple jump victory to Spiridon Louis's marathon triumph, we recount the stories of athletes who ignited the spirit of competition and national pride. Discover the intriguing contrasts between the early Olympics and today's global sporting phenomenon.Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a history buff, this episode of Time Tellers promises a thrilling chronicle of the past, woven with anecdotes, humor, and unexpected detours into personal anecdotes, ensuring you'll hang onto every word. Tune in and relive the moment where the past and present collided to lay the foundation for a global tradition.