Time Tellers

St. Patrick's Day a history

Join "Time Tellers" with hosts Renee and Dan as they delve into the captivating origins of St. Patrick's Day, tracing its evolution from a solemn religious observance to a vibrant global celebration. Discover the intriguing story of Mywin Suckett, later known as St. Patrick, who, seized by pirates and sold into slavery, found faith among the lush landscapes of Ireland. After a daring escape inspired by prophetic dreams, he returned to his captors' land as a missionary, shaping the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Emerald Isle.
Venture into the rich tapestry of history weaving Irish heritage with American festivities, where shamrocks symbolize unity and resilience. Lucid storytelling unveils how March 17th parades, ignited by the Irish diaspora's spirit, transformed cities like Chicago, New York, and Savannah into vibrant green havens. Meet legendary leprechauns, evolved from mischievous shoemakers to icons guarding mythical gold, and learn how centuries-old folktales transcend into fun-filled celebrations.
Perfect for listeners seeking enchanting narratives, this episode illuminates St. Patrick’s Day's transcendent journey, connecting past traditions with contemporary joy. Whether you're savoring soda bread or dodging a leprechaun’s mischief, "Time Tellers" invites you to experience the holiday's storied legacy through compelling dialogues, echoing the essence of perseverance and cultural pride.

Abigail Adams: the voice of independence and equality

Step into the captivating world of Abigail Adams, an extraordinary woman who rose beyond her roles as the wife of President John Adams and mother to President John Quincy Adams to become a staunch advocate for women's rights and equality. In this episode of Time Tellers, we delve into Abigail's early life in Weymouth, Massachusetts, where the lack of formal education for women didn't deter her pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. Educating herself through her father's expansive library, Abigail's quest for learning shaped her into a formidable thinker of her time.
As we journey through her life, we uncover her instrumental role in supporting her husband during the American Revolution. Her insightful letters, advocacy for the abolition of slavery, and passionate plea to "remember the ladies" have cemented her legacy as an early crusader for gender equality and civil rights. Join us as we explore Abigail Adams' enduring influence on her son John Quincy Adams, her contributions during her tenure as the first First Lady to reside in the White House, and her indelible mark on American history.
Discover the compelling story of a woman whose wisdom, resilience, and advocacy continue to echo across centuries, inspiring generations to strive for a more equitable future. Abigail Adams remains a powerful emblem of female intelligence and courage, shaping the very fabric of the nation she's remembered to have served so honorably.

Breaking the news: women in journalism

Welcome to Time Tellers, where we journey through the compelling history of women in journalism. In this episode, we explore how these trailblazing women broke through the male-dominated profession to tell the stories that shaped the world. From Nellie Bly's daring undercover investigations to Ida B. Wells’ fearless reporting on racial injustice, the impact of these pioneering journalists is undeniable. Get inspired by the stories of women who refused to be sidelined by societal norms, like Sara Emma Edmonds and Dorothy Lawrence, and how their courage paved the way for future generations. Discover how Eleanor Roosevelt revolutionized female journalists' access to political power, and see how modern reporters like Christiane Amanpour continue to break boundaries in war reporting.As we celebrate their achievements, remember that while progress has been made, the fight for equality in journalism is ongoing. Tune in for a narrative that promises to engage and enlighten, echoing the voices of courageous women who have reshaped the world of reportage.

Frances Perkins

Discover the captivating story of Frances Perkins, the pioneering woman who reshaped America's labor landscape. As the first female member of a U.S. Cabinet, Perkins was a driving force behind the New Deal, implementing crucial social and labor reforms during the Great Depression. Her journey began in Boston, where she was raised in a culture that championed hard work and service, eventually leading her to become a vital voice for workers' rights in New York.
Witness Perkins' transformation after experiencing the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, which solidified her determination to pursue labor reform. Her relentless advocacy led to her appointment by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as Secretary of Labor, where she fought for Social Security, Fair Labor Standards, and the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration.
Despite facing sexism and personal challenges, Perkins' unwavering commitment to justice and equality left a profound impact on American society. Her legacy of labor rights and social welfare continues to resonate today, inspiring future generations to champion positive change.

The Hidden Figures Who Transformed NASA

Join us on this riveting episode of Time Tellers as we uncover the untold stories of three remarkable African-American women whose brilliance and determination were instrumental in shaping NASA's early space missions. Discover how Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, known as human computers, defied the societal norms of the 1960s to make space travel a reality. Their inspiring journey from segregation to space exploration will captivate and inspire you.Delve into the historical backdrop of America's race to space and the civil rights challenges these women faced. Through the lens of Margot Lee Shatterley's book Hidden Figures and historical insights, witness their pivotal roles in ensuring the success of missions like John Glenn's orbital flight. We'll also explore how their extraordinary contributions laid the groundwork for the iconic Apollo moon landing, against the backdrop of a nation striving for progress in both technology and civil rights.This episode is not only a tribute to these unsung heroines but also a celebration of their resilience and the legacy they left for future generations of scientists and engineers. Their stories, once shrouded in obscurity, now serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the power of perseverance and the quest for equality.

The Underground Railroad

Join Renee and Dan on a captivating journey through one of the most daring and ingenious networks in American history: the Underground Railroad. In this episode of Timetellers, we delve into the incredible stories of unsung heroes whose persistent pursuit of freedom reshaped the landscape of a nation divided by slavery.
Uncover the harrowing tales of those who risked everything to aid the escape of enslaved individuals, from the fearless conductors like Harriet Tubman and John Parker to abolitionists who tirelessly fought against oppression. Renee and Dan shine a light on the covert routes and hidden safe houses that formed a path to liberty, and honor the brave men, women, and families who defied law and society to reach freedom.
Explore the lasting impacts of the Underground Railroad as we discuss its influence on modern social justice movements, demonstrating that the spirit of resistance and resilience continues to inspire today’s fight against injustice. Tune in to discover how the Underground Railroad's legacy lives on, offering a powerful narrative of courage and hope.

The Tuskegee Airmen

Join us on a journey through history as we uncover the riveting tale of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first Black military aviators in the United States Army Air Corps. Breaking barriers both in the skies and on the ground, these brave men not only soared against the Axis powers during World War II, but they also waged a battle against racial discrimination, challenging the prejudices of their time.In this episode, we dive into their incredible journey from the rigorous training fields of Alabama to the treacherous combat zones of World War II. Discover how Eleanor Roosevelt, with her visionary endorsement, helped pave the way for their success, and hear tales of bravery as they protected bomber squadrons with unmatched prowess, earning their legendary "Red Tails" nickname.Through political battles and profound acts of defiance, the Tuskegee Airmen left an indelible mark in history, influencing President Truman's landmark decision to desegregate the U.S. Armed Forces. Their legacy catalyzed change and paved the starlit skies of opportunity for generations to come. Listen as we honor their stories, achievements, and the pivotal role they played in shaping the future of equality in the military and beyond.

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.