Listener Favorites
Not sure where to begin? Take a listen to some fan favorites.
310
Jan. 3, 2026
Welcome to the Gilded Age: Wealth, Upheaval, and Reinvention
The Gilded Age began as the United States marked the 100th anniversary of independence, entering an era of rapid industrial growth and profound social change. This introductory episode sets the stage for what you can expect in my coverage of the Gilded Age, exploring how new technologies, expanding railroads, and rising industrial power transformed everyday life. Learn how as wealth accumulated at the top and economic inequality widened workers organized and demanded better and safer working
320
Feb. 21, 2026
The Exodusters: The Great Migration You Haven’t Heard About
Before the Great Migration, there was a smaller, yet just as important emigration of Black Americans out of the South. For several months in 1879, thousands of freedmen and their families headed for Kansas, hoping to create a better life for themselves and establish a better future for the children. Learn about the motivation behind this exodus and why it sparked a Senate investigation. Support the show
280
Aug. 9, 2025
Axes, Activism, and Abstinence: The WCTU and the Fight for Temperance
The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union was one of the most powerful reform organizations of the 19th century, but its story goes far beyond banning booze. Sit down with me as I dive into the WTCU's origins, its wide-ranging activism, and the influential women who helped shape its legacy. From the moral crusades of Frances Willard and her ambitious "Do Everything" policy to the saloon-smashing spectacle of Carrie Nation, learn how temperance became a launchpad for broader social change, includ
Recent Episodes
371
Sept. 26, 2026
From Marchers to Consumers: The Origins of Labor Day
Labor Day was first celebrated during the Gilded Age - amid a growing labor movement seeking recognition. Join me this week as I explore the origins, evolution, and current perceptions of Labor Day in the United States. Learn how Labor Day has transformed from a day of militant labor demonstrations to a more consumer-focused holiday, reflecting broader societal changes and the decline of organized labor's influence. Support the show
370
Sept. 22, 2026
Bringing Civil War History to Life: Stan Haynes on And Slavery No More
Join me as I sit down with author Stan Haynes to discuss his latest book And Slavery No More - a work of historical fiction that explores the mystery of General Lee's lost order and President Lincoln's evolution on slavery. Tune in to learn about how Haynes came to write historical fiction, the value to reading both fiction and nonfiction, and how he approaches blending creative elements grounded in historical events. To learn more about Stan and his books, visit his website: https://stanhaynes
369
Sept. 19, 2026
Exclusion or Restriction? The Chinese Exclusion Act
In 1882, President Chester A Arthur signed legislation barring Chinese laborers from entering the United States for a period of ten years. It went on to become known as the Chinese Exclusion Act, but is that an accurate framing? Join me this week as I explore Chinese immigration and why some historians refer to the 1882 law as the Chinese Restriction Act.
368
Sept. 15, 2026
Complex Founders: Jim Rasenberger on A Perfect Coincidence
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson are two of the most notable men of the founding era - as is their complicated and occasionally fraught relationship. Join me as I sit down with Jim Rasenberger to discuss his latest book A Perfect Coincidence which explores their friendship, political differences, and what lessons we can learn from their reconciliation.
Listen On
Support On
About the Host
Alycia
Host
Alycia has a master's degree in History from Sonoma State University where she researched women, labor, and welfare bureaucracies. She fell in love with history at a young age when her teacher, Mr. Lamb, pointed out the beautiful flaws found throughout our past. She believes history is fun and engaging - if told the right way.
When not creating new episodes for the podcast she enjoys traveling with her husband, running to 90's hip hop and planning her next Disneyland adventure.