Time Tellers

Presidents Day

Welcome to another intriguing episode of Time Tellers, where we unravel the intricate tapestry of American history by exploring the origins and evolution of President's Day. Join your hosts, Renee and Dan, as they dive into the stories of presidents often overshadowed by more celebrated figures. Discover surprising facts, historical myths, and the quirky anecdotes of presidents who have shaped, and sometimes slipped through, our collective memory.In this episode, learn how President's Day, originally celebrated as Washington's Birthday, transformed into a holiday that honors all U.S. presidents. Trace its journey from George Washington’s leadership in the Revolutionary War to the charming tales of presidents like Taft and McKinley. Engage with fascinating trivia that highlights the diversity and uniqueness of America’s commanders-in-chief while reflecting on the complexities of their legacies.Whether you celebrate President's Day with educational endeavors, historical reflections, or retail adventures, take this opportunity to delve deeper into the narratives that have molded the essence of the American presidency. Join us as we celebrate the iconic, the forgotten, and the peculiar figures in U.S. history in this enlightening episode of Time Tellers.

Happy Valentines Day!

Join Renee and an ever-reluctant Dan on Time Tellers as they unbox the rich, intricate tapestry that is Valentine's Day in America. This episode takes listeners on a time-traveling journey from ancient Roman rituals to medieval courtships, through the rise of commercialism spearheaded by visionary entrepreneurs like Esther Howland, to today's diverse celebrations that embrace both love and friendship.
Uncover the layers of history hidden behind the heart-shaped chocolates and floral bouquets, as the podcast delves into the traditions that shaped a holiday marked by joy, extravagance, and heartfelt gestures. Explore how Valentine's Day transformed from a fertility festival into a love-centric fervor fueled by capitalism, while still retaining nuggets of its emotional core through centuries.
Listen in as they pull at the threads of commercialization and ponder the holiday's significance beyond societal pressures, revealing Valentine's Day as a day of universal appreciation and love in all forms – a holiday that, whether adored or disdained, continues to rewrite its own narrative across generations.

The St. Valentine's Day Massacre

Join us on this gripping episode of Time Tellers as we step back into the dangerous world of 1920s Chicago. Embark on a journey through the shadowy alleys and underground speakeasies of the Prohibition era, a time when crime lords ruled and every corner teemed with the promise of illicit profits and the threat of sudden violence.
At the center of our story is the infamous St. Valentine's Day Massacre, a brutal event that forever scarred the American consciousness. We delve into the heart of the rivalry between Chicago’s most notorious gangs: Al Capone's fearsome Outfit and Bugs Moran’s gritty Northside crew. Discover the chain of events that led to this bloody showdown and the innovative yet ruthless tactics employed.
Through compelling storytelling and a deep dive into the era's archival news, we uncover the enduring mysteries and legend surrounding this gruesome encounter. From the chilling setup to the disastrous aftermath, explore how one event intensified law enforcement's pursuit of organized crime, setting off a domino effect that changed America. Tune in and let Time Tellers guide you through history’s dark past with riveting detail and narrative flair.

Unsung Heroes: The Story of the 6888

In this episode of "Time Tellers," hosts Renee and Dan delve into the remarkable yet often overlooked story of the 6888 Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female unit that served with distinction during World War II. As the United States faced a colossal backlog of mail threatening soldier morale overseas, these women rose to the challenge, defying racial and gender prejudices.
Led by the indomitable Charity Adams Early, the 855-strong battalion worked tirelessly under grueling conditions, clearing warehouses in Birmingham, England, and later Roanne, France. Despite facing immense discrimination, they triumphed, processing millions of pieces of mail with efficiency and dedication, all while supporting one another in a close-knit community.
Their motto, "No mail, low morale," encapsulated the critical nature of their mission, ensuring that troops stayed connected with their loved ones back home. Join us as we explore the enduring legacy of these unsung heroes and reflect on their contributions, which were finally recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal decades after their pivotal wartime efforts.

The My Lai Massacre

*WARNING this episode uses sound effects that could be upsetting to some viewers* Welcome to this gripping episode of "Time Tellers," where we unravel one of the darkest chapters in American history. Join us as we delve deep into the My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War—a haunting narrative of brutality, cover-ups, and a search for justice.
In this episode, we take you through the harrowing events that unfolded on March 16, 1968, when the soldiers of Charlie Company expected fierce battle but instead encountered unarmed villagers. Led by Lieutenant William Calley, what followed was a shocking act of violence, with the execution of hundreds of innocent civilians, including women and children. Through storytelling and analysis, we expose the cover-up efforts that followed, the role of whistleblowers, and the worldwide outrage that ensued.
The episode sheds light on the long-lasting impact of the massacre on American society, the media, and military policies. Hear about the brave attempts by individuals like helicopter pilot Hugh Thompson to intervene and the trials that sought justice in a deeply divided country.
Explore the broader implications for war ethics and human rights, and understand the legacy left by these events, not only on those who witnessed and survived but on the world. A powerful episode that invites you to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the moral challenges faced during war.

The Homestead Strike of 1892

Step back into the tumultuous Gilded Age in America, a period defined by astonishing industrial growth and profound social upheaval. In this episode of Time Tellers, hosts Renee and Dan dive into the heart of Pittsburgh during the notorious Homestead Strike of 1892. Discover how Andrew Carnegie and his iron will faced off against the indomitable spirit of steelworkers in one of the most pivotal labor clashes in history.
Through riveting storytelling, we unravel the intense 12-hour battle where strikers heroically faced off against the infamous Pinkerton agents, all while their struggle illuminated the stark divides between labor and capital. Learn how this monumental and bloody confrontation reshaped the landscape of labor rights in America and challenged the prevailing power dynamics of the time.
Join Renee and Dan as they peel back the layers of this historic event, revealing untold stories and exploring its lasting impact on the labor movement and industrial practices. From the suffocating haze of "Smoke City" to the enduring quest for fair labor conditions, experience the raw and compelling narratives that continue to echo today.

Commemorating a Legacy: The Making of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Join us for a captivating mini-episode of Time Tellers, where hosts Renee and Dan take you on a historic journey into the origins of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This enlightening episode delves into how the United States came to honor one of its most iconic civil rights leaders with a national holiday.Discover the tireless efforts behind the movement, spearheaded by dedicated advocates like Michigan Congressman John Conyers and Coretta Scott King. Witness the influence of Stevie Wonder's iconic song "Happy Birthday," which not only celebrated Dr. King’s legacy but also rallied a nation to action.Explore the trials, triumphs, and eventual nationwide recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a day that serves as a continual reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done on the road to equality and justice for all. Tune in to this engaging episode to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring impact and the ongoing journey towards his dream.

Echoes of Equality: Martin Luther King Jr.'s Enduring Legacy

Immerse yourself in the poignant narrative of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and legacy on this compelling episode of Time Tellers. Through a rich tapestry of historical insights, we navigate pivotal moments that defined the civil rights movement—a journey enriched by the profound stories housed within the walls of the National Civil Rights Museum.
Explore the life of a transformative figure who fought tirelessly against racial injustice, from leading significant events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott to inspiring millions with his poignant speeches. Feel the emotional weight of his legacy as we transport you to the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, the very site of his untimely assassination.
Join us as we delve deeper into Dr. King's enduring impact on history and culture, reflecting on his powerful eloquence and unwavering dedication to justice and equality. This episode promises an engaging narrative crafted to inspire reflection and action, echoing Dr. King's timeless message of hope and unity.

The Wright Brothers' First Flight

Unveiling the captivating tale of Wilbur and Orville Wright, this episode navigates through the lives of two brothers who dared to dream of conquering the skies. Born into a family that cherished education and innovation, the Wright brothers' journey from their bike shop in Dayton, Ohio, to the sands of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, is a testament to their indomitable spirit and inventive genius.
Listeners will be engrossed as the episode unravels how a simple childhood toy ignited their passion for flight, leading them to master the intricacies of aerodynamics and invent the first powered aircraft. With wit and an engaging narrative, it explores the perseverance and ingenuity that launched the Wrights into the history books despite the skepticism they faced.
Beyond the planes, it's a story of family support, with a spotlight on their sister, Katherine, who played an essential role in their triumphs, and the post-flight challenges that tested their resolve. The episode offers a vivid glimpse into the fascinating world of early aviation and the enduring legacy of two men who proved that with enough determination, the sky is indeed not the limit.

Unveiling the 14th Amendment: The Battle for Equality

Join Renee and Dan on Time Tellers as they delve into the pivotal 14th Amendment, a cornerstone of American civil rights history. From its inception during the Reconstruction era to its ongoing influence, this episode unravels the amendment's origins, debating its sections and the key figures who championed it.
Discover how Post-Civil War America grappled with reintegration and the quest for equality, exploring the radical Republicans' push for justice against fierce Southern opposition. Meet historical advocates like Thaddeus Stevens and Charles Sumner, who shaped the amendment in pursuit of a unified, equitable nation.
Through landmark Supreme Court cases like Brown v. Board of Education and modern challenges, understand how this powerful constitutional provision remains at the heart of debates on affirmative action and LGBTQ+ rights. Tune in to uncover the enduring legacy of the 14th Amendment and its crucial role in crafting an inclusive vision for the United States.