Here's Where It Gets Interesting

Here's Where It Gets Interesting

Sharon McMahon

Here’s Where It Gets Interesting finds the stories of America you probably haven’t heard. Host Sharon McMahon, a longtime teacher and one of today’s most influential voices, will ignite your curiosity about the fascinating stuff that wasn’t in history textbooks. She’s joined by notable thought leaders who share insights about history, culture, and politics, and inspire us to grow into more thoughtful, well-informed citizens. An Audacy Podcast.

9066: One Signature Changed It All, Episode 1

9066: One Signature Changed It All, Episode 1

When FDR signed executive order 9066, he upended lives and forever altered the course of American history. With the stroke of a pen, more than 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry would be forced from their homes, jobs, schools, and lives.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about you

Feb 17, • 44:11

9066: One Signature Changed It All Trailer

9066: One Signature Changed It All Trailer

What happens when fear and prejudice are ignited by the hysteria of war?In 9066, you'll find out. Follow Daniel Inouye, who was only 17 when he discovers the first civilian dead on December 7, 1941. He -- and more than 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry -- will struggle with what it means when the nation that they loved attacks the one that they call home.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson To learn

Feb 10, • 3:03

What in the World with Leanne Morgan

What in the World with Leanne Morgan

How did Leanne Morgan go from a small-town mom to one of the biggest comedians in the country? Sharon McMahon chats with the hilarious Leanne Morgan about doing comedy in a parking lot, her love of Costco (because, of course), how she survived a 200 city comedy tour, and never giving up on your dreams. It took more than 20 years, but Leanne now has her own Netflix special, a sitcom in the works, a movie alongside Reese Witherspoon, and a NYT best-selling book. If you want to laugh while also bei

Feb 3, • 54:28

The Supreme Court’s Worst Decisions with Sarah Isgur

The Supreme Court’s Worst Decisions with Sarah Isgur

Why has the Supreme Court become such a hot topic of debate? Sharon McMahon is joined by co-host of the Advisory Opinions podcast and former director in the DOJ, Sarah Isgur, for a spirited discussion about why the Court has become so political. Sarah shares her theories on the reason public opinion of SCOTUS has plummeted, and why she believes it’s a good thing that the Court doesn’t always agree with the majority opinion. Sarah also gives us her insider predictions on which justices m

Jan 27, • 49:58

Supercommunicators with Charles Duhigg

Supercommunicators with Charles Duhigg

How does someone become a great communicator? Sharon McMahon talks with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg about his latest book, Super Communicators. He explains being a strong communicator isn’t some magical, innate talent but a skill that anyone can learn. How do top executives talk to others? How can you deal with people who insult or talk down to you? And what can you say to someone to tells you to calm down? Charles breaks down the three types of conversations and shares tips

Jan 20, • 45:11

Dear Miss Perkins with Rebecca Brenner Graham

Dear Miss Perkins with Rebecca Brenner Graham

She was the first female cabinet secretary, but secretly, out of the spotlight, Frances Perkins also saved countless lives during World War II. Author Rebecca Brenner Graham shares incredible stories from her new book, Dear Miss Perkins, which showcases the letters of people who wrote to Perkins, desperate for her help to escape Nazi Germany. As the longest-serving Labor Secretary, Perkins stared down personal attacks and fierce opposition to do what she knew was right: making quick decisions th

Jan 13, • 41:53

That Librarian with Amanda Jones

That Librarian with Amanda Jones

How did an award-winning librarian become the target of an online hate campaign? Sharon McMahon chats with Amanda Jones about her new book, “That Librarian,” and her experience speaking out against book bans and censorship. Amanda talks about the consequences she’s faced, including death threats and her address being posted online, and why she’s so passionate about making books accessible to everyone. From the misinformation fueling these bans, to the crucial role libraries play in communities,

Jan 6, • 45:43

America First with H.W. Brands

America First with H.W. Brands

What role should the US play in international conflicts? Pulitzer prize finalist and historian H.W. Brands joins Sharon McMahon to discuss his latest book, “America First.” They dig into the America First movement inside the United States during the 1930s and early 40s. As World War II was raging, President Franklin Roosevelt was looking to gin up support for the US to help its allies fight the war. But celebrity aviator Charles Lindbergh and the America First Committee were standing in

Dec 30, 2024 • 45:14

Den of Spies with Craig Unger

Den of Spies with Craig Unger

Was there a secret conspiracy between Ronald Reagan’s campaign and Iran to help him win the 1980 election? NYT bestselling author Craig Unger unpacks the plot in his most recent book, “Den of Spies,” a story he worked on for 30 years. The Iran hostage crisis had plagued Jimmy Carter’s presidency, and was seen as one of his biggest failures. Reagan’s campaign worried that an October hostage release would give Carter a boost to win reelection. So, Unger explains, Reagan’s team hatched a p

Dec 23, 2024 • 40:43

Good Reasonable People with Keith Payne

Good Reasonable People with Keith Payne

Why do we tend to feel like ideas coming “our side” are good, and ones coming from the “other side” are bad, even if they are the same exact ideas? Keith Payne, professor of psychology and neuroscience at UNC and author of “Good Reasonable People,” breaks down why we see the world so differently—especially in the world today. He dives into how our backgrounds shape our beliefs and why throwing facts at someone rarely changes their mind. Keith offers advice on how to have more meaningful

Dec 16, 2024 • 52:48

Vanishing Treasures with Katherine Rundell

Vanishing Treasures with Katherine Rundell

What can we do to help save the most vulnerable animals? Sharon McMahon is joined by #1 NYT Best-Selling author Katherine Rundell to talk about extraordinary animals like the Greenland shark which can live to be over 600 years old, or the American Wood frog that freezes in the winter, and kickstarts its own heart in the spring. Katherine shares stories about animals you’ve probably never heard of, the challenges they face, and the urgent need for preservation and mindful coexistence with the nat

Dec 9, 2024 • 53:08

Good People with Lucia Knell and Gabriel Reilich

Good People with Lucia Knell and Gabriel Reilich

We talk a lot about the bad side of social media, but what about the good stuff? Sharon sits down with Lucia Knell and Gabriel Reilich, the creators of the viral Instagram account, Upworthy, to discuss their uplifting and thought-provoking NYT Best Selling book, “Good People.” Together, they explore the power of sharing stories that shine a light on human decency, giving us a much needed break from the negativity that often dominates our feed. What’s the kindest thing a stranger has eve

Dec 2, 2024 • 51:01

Night Flyer with Tiya Miles

Night Flyer with Tiya Miles

How do you choose hope when fear feels overwhelming? In her most recent book, “Night Flyer,” Harvard historian and NYT best-selling author Tiya Miles shares the powerful legacy of Harriet Tubman. We’ve all heard stories about Tubman’s daring escape and work on the Underground Railroad. But how did she do it, and who helped her? Tiya Miles tells us about Tubman’s humor, and the vital role her faith and allies, both human and non-human, played in helping her free over 700 people throughou

Nov 25, 2024 • 52:14

Hope for Cynics with Jamil Zaki

Hope for Cynics with Jamil Zaki

Is cynicism getting in the way of our progress? In “Hope for Cynics”, Stanford psychologist Dr. Jamil Zaki, explores how cynicism is keeping us hopeless and inactive, which prevents us from creating real, lasting change. Zaki shares his ideas on how to escape the “cynicism trap” and become critical thinkers capable of hope and trust.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson To learn more about listener data

Nov 18, 2024 • 43:58

On Freedom with Timothy Snyder

On Freedom with Timothy Snyder

What if Americans are thinking about freedom all wrong? Yale historian and New York Times #1 Best-Selling author Timothy Snyder unpacks this question in his book “On Freedom”. He challenges our common understanding of freedom, and highlights the ways in which others attempt to take our freedom through anger and fear mongering, and what we can do to take it back.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson To l

Nov 11, 2024 • 48:20

Fair Voting on the Ballot with Deb Otis

Fair Voting on the Ballot with Deb Otis

How can we improve U.S. elections to ensure that every vote truly counts? Sharon McMahon talks with Deb Otis from FairVote about solutions like proportional representation and ranked choice voting. Want to vote for a third party candidate but worried it’s a wasted vote? There’s a way to change that, and it’s on the ballot in some states November 5th! Deb shares her thoughts on reforms that could lead to nicer politicians, and more choices for voters.Credits:Host and Executive Producer:

Nov 4, 2024 • 43:21

John Lewis a Life with David Greenberg

John Lewis a Life with David Greenberg

How does one man’s commitment to justice and equality change the course of history? David Greenberg takes us through the remarkable life of John Lewis, from his days as a civil rights icon to becoming a respected Congressman. He explores into the values that Lewis championed—nonviolence, collective action, voting rights and his powerful legacy of resilience, love, and an unshakable belief in a brighter future for America.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Pro

Oct 28, 2024 • 48:55

Revenge of the Tipping Point with Malcolm Gladwell

Revenge of the Tipping Point with Malcolm Gladwell

What causes certain ideas to catch fire while others fizzle out? Malcolm Gladwell dives into this mystery, reexamining key themes from his groundbreaking book The Tipping Point. In his latest work, Revenge of the Tipping Point, he looks at how ideas spread today, focusing on issues like Medicare fraud in Miami and the dangers of parents pushing high school students all toward the same goal.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio P

Oct 21, 2024 • 43:00

America’s Deadliest Election with Dana Bash

America’s Deadliest Election with Dana Bash

How did America’s Deadliest Election change the future of democracy? Sharon McMahon is joined by CNN's Dana Bash to discuss a lesser known chapter of history and how this pivotal moment forever changed the course of history.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices.

Oct 14, 2024 • 47:29

The Plan with Kendra Adachi

The Plan with Kendra Adachi

Feeling overwhelmed by the constant juggle of work and life? Always trying to be more productive with the little time you have? Kendra Adachi says there’s a better way. She shares with Sharon The Plan for how to let go of guilt and embrace the season you’re in. You’ll be guaranteed to walk away from this episode feeling better about yourself, no matter where you are in your life.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Cr

Oct 7, 2024 • 46:34

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 3

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 3

In our final behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Small and The Mighty, Sharon McMahon shares explains the last stages of the book writing process, from copyediting to marketing, and what fun things to expect when you go to her book tour events!Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practi

Sep 30, 2024 • 35:56

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 2

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 2

Sharon walks down memory lane, laughing over the dozens of book covers she went through before finally settling on THE ONE. From a woman riding a flying eagle (really), to one with more weapons than you can count, these are the worst of the worst. She shares her feelings on the process, who helped her decide, and how she figured out the right color and image for The Small and the Mighty.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Prod

Sep 23, 2024 • 38:37

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 1

Behind the Scenes of The Small and the Mighty, Episode 1

Curious about the process of writing a book? Sharon takes us behind the scenes of The Small and the Mighty. From securing an agent to selecting the perfect title, she shares the highs, lows, and everything in between. Get a firsthand look at her three year journey as she tells us personal details and stories for the first time.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy f

Sep 16, 2024 • 38:47

Disagreeing Better with Utah Governor Spencer Cox

Disagreeing Better with Utah Governor Spencer Cox

Amidst a contentious election season and increased political polarization, how can we disagree better? Sharon McMahon sits down with Utah Governor Spencer Cox to talk about how love your neighbors, especially the ones you disagree with. He tells us how to be architects instead of arsonists, builders instead of destroyers.Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inform

Sep 9, 2024 • 48:45

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 9

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 9

Joseph Stalin, feared by all, now clings to life, isolated and powerless. As his power-hungry rivals fight for control of the Soviet Union, Stalin’s henchmen begin to face the consequences of their actions. But even as Russia attempts to break free from Stalin’s legacy, history threatens to repeat itself.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonWriters/researchers: Mandy Reid, Amy Watkin, Kari Anton, Sharon

Sep 2, 2024 • 46:39

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 8

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 8

World War II is over, and Stalin is ready to pick up where Hitler left off. Driven by paranoia, no one is above suspicion, including the wife of his closest friend. Not even her loyalty to him could save her from Stalin’s wrath. And, as his own health deteriorated, Stalin turned on the very people trying to help him. What was behind his sinister plot to target doctors?Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig Thompso

Aug 26, 2024 • 42:16

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 7

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 7

A deal with the devil. Hitler and Stalin join forces at the start of World War II. But the ultra paranoid Joseph Stalin strangely had a blind spot when it came to his dictator friend. How did Stalin, the man with the best spies in the world, end up getting double crossed?Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonWriters/researchers: Mandy Reid, Amy Watkin, Kari Anton, Sharon McMahon, Melanie Buck Parks Hosted

Aug 19, 2024 • 46:23

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 6

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 6

Joseph Stalin had his young daughter fooled. Svetlana had no idea what he was doing to people outside the palace walls, and to her, he was a doting father. But all that changed when she finally learned the truth about what happened to her mother. Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonWriters/researchers: Mandy Reid, Amy Watkin, Kari Anton, Sharon McMahon, Melanie Buck Parks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/

Aug 12, 2024 • 47:46

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 5

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 5

Joseph Stalin finally has the power he’s been working decades to achieve. But as the new leader of the Soviet Union, he thinks everyone around him is a threat– even friends and defenseless peasants. And for some reason, Stalin can’t stop obsessing about his old enemy Leon Trotsky. But, a devious plot just might rid him of his nemesis once and for all.Credits:Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonWriters/researche

Aug 5, 2024 • 43:28

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 4

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 4

Joseph Stalin’s bank robbing days have earned him a top spot as a Revolutionary, just as things are falling in place for Russia’s government to be toppled. The allure of communism has spread, but the message of course, wasn’t the reality. Stalin takes on a new role as an enforcer, a position that would show just how brutal and heartless he was. And this time, he has a new, very young, love interest by his side.Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck

Jul 29, 2024 • 42:45

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 3

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 3

A new mission, a new identity. Joseph Stalin, using the name Koba, takes on his latest role in the name of the Revolution: bank robber. He still found time for romance, though, falling hard for the only woman he would truly ever love. Now he faced a choice: fatherhood… or the Revolution?Host and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Craig ThompsonWriters/researchers: Mandy Reid, Amy Watkin, Kari Anton, Sharon McMahon, Melanie Buck Park

Jul 22, 2024 • 45:29

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 2

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 2

Joseph Stalin was born the third, but only surviving son, to his parents Keke and Beso. His mother begged God to let him live, and when he did, she told her son he would devote his life to God. His family and friends called him Soso, and while his mother doted on him, he was often the victim of his father’s alcohol-fueled rages. Soso learned early that violence got results, a lesson that would carry through to every facet of his life as an adult. This little boy, raised in poverty, grow

Jul 15, 2024 • 45:44

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 1

Stalin: Man of Steel, Episode 1

Welcome to our newest docuseries on Joseph Stalin. Over the course of this series you will learn how a little mama's boy called Soso became one of the most ruthless leaders in history. For decades a movement was growing. The Russian people were frustrated and angry with how the country was being run. Take a deadly war, a lack of jobs and food, combined with a leader who was totally oblivious to the problems his people were facing, and a revolution sounded like a pretty good idea.There w

Jul 8, 2024 • 57:43

Democracy in Retrograde with Sami Sage and Emily Amick

Democracy in Retrograde with Sami Sage and Emily Amick

Ever wonder how you can get involved in your community but in a way that fits your interests and lifestyle? Authors Sami Sage and Emily Amick have the answer to that question. They see civic engagement as a form of self care, and say even the smallest action can have big results. The book provides a series of exercises to help readers understand their civic priorities and values, using special quizzes, to figure out exactly the best way to get involved.Special thanks to our guests, Sami

Jul 1, 2024 • 39:15

The New Happy with Stephanie Harrison

The New Happy with Stephanie Harrison

Sharon is joined today by author Stephanie Harrison to discuss her international best selling book, New Happy. In this book, Stephanie explores  why we often get happiness wrong and how we can get it right. She reminds us not to get trapped into what she calls the Old Happy, which is what society tells you you need in order to be happy. From the story of Scrooge and his lack of empathy to how Shaquille O’Neal lives his life, Stephanie compares what happiness means to different people. S

Jun 24, 2024 • 41:45

In the Shadow of Liberty with Ana Raquel Minian

In the Shadow of Liberty with Ana Raquel Minian

You hear on the news about immigration chaos in the United States, but what can be done to address the systemic issues, and the very real concerns of Americans? What was the driving force of the exclusion of some immigrant groups? And how has immigration changed over the years? Sharon McMahon is joined by author and expert, Ana Raquel Minian, to discuss her new book, In the Shadow of Liberty. Together, they dive into the history of immigration so we can better understand how to move for

Jun 17, 2024 • 40:10

Awakening the Spirit of America with Paul Sparrow

Awakening the Spirit of America with Paul Sparrow

If you are interested in the 1930s and 1940s, or have wondered how the rapid growth of authoritarianism in today’s political climate mirrors that of WWII, this is an episode for you. Sharon McMahon is joined by author Paul Sparrow to discuss his new book, Awakening the Spirit of America. It’s a story of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, his surprising opponent, Charles Lindbergh, and their war of words. Learn how far back the “America First” slogan goes, and how persuasive language c

Jun 10, 2024 • 42:56

Too Close to the Flame with Joe Ingle

Too Close to the Flame with Joe Ingle

When you think of prisoners on Death Row, what imagery comes to mind? Author of Too Close to the Flame, Joe Ingle, joins Sharon McMahon to talk about what it is like inside America's death penalty system. After spending 45 years working as a spiritual advisor to men and women on Death Row, Joe vulnerably shares his experiences of the final moments before they are executed, and sheds a light on how the legal system disenfranchises those who can not afford a lawyer. What is an alternative

Jun 3, 2024 • 39:52

The Year of Living Constitutionally with A.J. Jacobs

The Year of Living Constitutionally with A.J. Jacobs

Imagine walking into your polling place on Election Day, and openly declaring who you were voting for. That is exactly what today’s guest did when researching and writing his book, The Year of Living Constitutionally. Author A.J. Jacobs joined Sharon McMahon to share what it was like to live a year, interpreting the U.S. Constitution literally. What is in the Constitution, and what is not? From implementing in-home cursing laws, to carrying an 18th Century musket around Manhattan, you w

May 27, 2024 • 46:33

A Country of Unrest with Erik Larson

A Country of Unrest with Erik Larson

Following January 6th and the current political climate, some Americans fear there will be a “new Civil War.”  But what does that truly mean? If you are a lover of history, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Author Erik Larson joins us to discuss his new book, The Demon of Unrest, which is set shortly before the outbreak of the Civil War. Dive into the mindsets and captivating portrayals of leaders on the brink of a war that eventually killed 750,000 Americans, and injured

May 20, 2024 • 35:36

Say More with Jen Psaki

Say More with Jen Psaki

In a world of social media fights, keyboard warriors, and misinformation, it’s easy to feel disconnected, even among close friends and family. What if we rethink how we’re communicating to build better relationships and maintain connection? Former White House Press Secretary, Jen Psaki, joins us to share lessons she’s learned about how to be an effective communicator with any audience, and growing through giving and receiving feedback. Join us for a peek behind the scenes, and practice

May 13, 2024 • 41:13

An Unfinished Love Story with Doris Kearns Goodwin

An Unfinished Love Story with Doris Kearns Goodwin

Imagine being a Pulitzer Prize winning presidential historian, knowing you had extraordinarily rare primary source material and Presidential memorabilia tucked away in the cellar of your own home… and not opening it for decades? Doris Kearns Goodwin joins us today to share her journey of exploring more than 300 boxes, alongside her husband of 42 years, Richard (Dick) Goodwin, that served as a time capsule of his service in the 1960s. In the relay race of democracy, you never know who wi

May 6, 2024 • 43:45

The Vigilantes, Episode 7

The Vigilantes, Episode 7

Life in prison wasn’t enough for the Knights of Mary Phagan. They wanted Leo Frank to pay with his life, and they were going to make sure it happened. In Georgia, vigilante justice wasn’t new, but this time was different. This time, it would change the nation. Would the vigilantes actually get away with it? Join us for the final episode in this seven-episode series, The Vigilantes.Special thanks to former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes for his time and contribution to this episode. Host/ E

Apr 29, 2024 • 1:07:35

The Vigilantes, Episode 6

The Vigilantes, Episode 6

Georgia’s Governor knew his life was in danger when he made his ruling. Would he commute Leo’s sentence, or let him die by execution?. And just how far would the angry mob go to seek revenge for Mary’s death? The planning had already begun… and it wouldn’t take long for a deal to be made with the prison warden. Join us for part six of this seven-episode series, The Vigilantes.Host/ Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Jenny Snyder Wri

Apr 22, 2024 • 45:24

The Vigilantes, Episode 5

The Vigilantes, Episode 5

Appeal after appeal, Leo Frank was running out of options. With a new lawyer joining his defense team – the same lawyer who earlier represented the man who testified against Leo – the tide began to turn. Witnesses were coming forward, a new explanation for the murder note comes to light, and the story is making national news. With only days remaining before the scheduled execution, would time be on his side?Join us for part five of this seven-episode series, The Vigilantes.Special Thank

Apr 15, 2024 • 49:08

The Vigilantes, Episode 4

The Vigilantes, Episode 4

The heat in the Atlanta courtroom was sweltering and unbearable, as the trial against Leo Frank began. A Black man was testifying against a white man, which was nearly unheard of in the Jim Crow south. And the evidence against this man was mounting… A suspect who was at the murder scene, and continued to lie to the police. Join us for part four of this seven-episode series, The Vigilantes.Host/ Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonSupervising Producer: Melanie Buck ParksAudio Producer: Jen

Apr 8, 2024 • 46:46

The Vigilantes, Episode 3

The Vigilantes, Episode 3

It’s been 48 hours since Mary Phagan was last seen alive. It’s a media frenzy, and police are feeling the pressure to find the killer. There’s a new, sudden interest in the murder notes. Did the killer write them to throw off investigators? By the end of this episode, three men would become suspects. And despite dubious evidence and changing stories, one would soon be indicted for Mary’s murder. With a mob looking for vengeance, and sensational newspaper coverage, chances of a fair tria

Apr 1, 2024 • 47:20

The Vigilantes, Episode 2

The Vigilantes, Episode 2

It should have been a leisurely Saturday off work for 13-year-old Mary Phagan, who was looking forward to celebrating the Confederate Memorial Day holiday. It should have been an easy day for Leo Frank, too, who hoped to leave his job at the factory early to go to the local baseball game with his wife. It should have been a carefree day for 16-year old Grace Hicks, who was enjoying a rare day off, and waiting for her friend to join her at the parade.It was anything but a beautiful, joyf

Mar 25, 2024 • 43:35

A Conversation with Kamala Harris

A Conversation with Kamala Harris

What is at stake in the upcoming presidential election? From the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, to women’s healthcare, and the economy, many voters aren't excited about a presidential rematch. Some have voiced their opinion by voting “Uncommitted” in the primary, instead of for President Biden.Our guest today views this election as a choice between stability, and the potential destruction of Democracy. She is the first female Vice President of the United States, and today Kamala Harris joins

Mar 20, 2024 • 22:09

The Vigilantes, Episode 1

The Vigilantes, Episode 1

A shocking murder. A scene so brutal that the first people to find the victim couldn’t even tell what their skin color was. And a case that forever changed both the city, and the state’s legal system. It was April 1913, in Atlanta, Georgia, and the city would never be the same. You may wonder why this imperative and dramatic case is not taught in history class, or how the world could have forgotten such a horrific crime that continues to have an impact more than 100 years later. Join us

Mar 18, 2024 • 33:12

Infectious Generosity with Chris Anderson

Infectious Generosity with Chris Anderson

It’s the ultimate idea worth spreading: Generosity of spirit. Sharon is joined by Chris Anderson, whom you may know as the “head of TED.” As the leader and curator of TED, Chris shares why he chose this moment in time to write his book, Infectious Generosity, referring to the sea of anger that we’re living in, and the role the Internet can play – for better or for worse. Chris suggests that we all ask ourselves this question: Am I a net giver, or a net taker? What does it mean to live w

Mar 11, 2024 • 39:57

Reimagining Democracy with Max Stearns

Reimagining Democracy with Max Stearns

Do you ever wonder what Democracy could look like in America? Many voters are familiar with this scene: You walk into a voting booth, review the options, and feel as though you’re voting between “the lesser of two evils.” You might worry that voting third-party is wasting a vote, but you don’t feel represented by the main candidates. Sound familiar? If you’re like the majority of Americans, you probably find yourself frustrated with the two-party system and a historically unproductive C

Mar 4, 2024 • 42:42

Who’s Your Founding Father? with David Fleming

Who’s Your Founding Father? with David Fleming

Are you ready to question what you know about America’s founding? Today’s guest, David Fleming, shares all about a delicious slice of history in his new book, “Who’s Your Founding Father?” We dive into the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, a conspiracy theory, and possible plagiarism surrounding one of the most important documents in U.S. history. How do the ultimate frenemies, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, tie into this? Join us to find out. Special thanks to our guest, David

Feb 26, 2024 • 41:18

Talking 2024 with Nikki Haley

Talking 2024 with Nikki Haley

Term limits, mental competency evaluations, and the looming 2024 presidential election. Join us for one of the most requested episodes yet, as Sharon sits down with presidential candidate, former governor and former U.S. ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley. The majority of Americans do not want a matchup of Biden Vs. Trump in the General Election. What kind of strategies will Nikki Haley bring to the table, to help bridge the divide between Democrats and Republicans, if she’s elected Pres

Feb 19, 2024 • 36:35

Be a Revolution with Ijeoma Oluo

Be a Revolution with Ijeoma Oluo

In a time when people are working to better understand systems of oppression and address issues that can seem daunting, folks are left asking the question: What can I do to make an impact? Sharon is joined by speaker and #1 New York Times bestselling author, Ijeoma Oluo, for a conversation to set listeners on a path of how to do important work, right where you are. There is work that is accessible to all of us, and her new book, Be a Revolution, highlights practical and tangible ways to

Feb 12, 2024 • 36:57

Awakening Wonder with Katherine May

Awakening Wonder with Katherine May

We’ve all gotten trapped in the social media & news loop: Checks Twitter, scrolls on Instagram, reads comments, watches the news, checks Twitter, reads comments, checks the news again… and the cycle continues. Today’s guest, international best-setting author Katherine May, invites us to join her on a journey or reawakening in her newest book, Enchantment. Explore the art of reconnecting with the world around you, and learn to see the humanity of others. Whether it’s a gorgeous sunse

Feb 5, 2024 • 42:45

Life After Power with Jared Cohen

Life After Power with Jared Cohen

What is it like to transition from one of the most powerful positions in the world, to that of an ordinary citizen? Sharon is joined by presidential historian and New York Times bestselling author, Jared Cohen, to share about what happens when presidents – at the pinnacle of their prestige and influence – leave office. What can we learn about human nature and building a legacy from these past political figures? Join us as we explore Jared’s new book, Life After Power, that confronts the

Jan 29, 2024 • 37:47

The Pursuit of Happiness with Jeffrey Rosen

The Pursuit of Happiness with Jeffrey Rosen

We’ve heard it before: Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But what did the nation’s Founders mean when they identified “the pursuit of happiness” as an unalienable right? And what role does moral philosophy play in understanding the virtues that accompany the pursuit of happiness? Today we’re joined by Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, to explore these questions, as well as to dive deeper into the history and meaning of the pursuit of life-l

Jan 22, 2024 • 40:33

Ordinary People Change the World with Brad Meltzer

Ordinary People Change the World with Brad Meltzer

What makes a real hero? From Amelia Earhart, to Abraham Lincoln, to Jane Goodall, there are some names we all know – and with good reason. When today’s guest, author Brad Meltzer, became a father, his writing career took a turn. In a world of TikTok stars and YouTube influencers, he wanted a book series for children that set apart the character of true heroes, from those who are out for fame. Join us as we step inside the creative process of how Brad begins to write a children’s book, t

Jan 15, 2024 • 34:41

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 12

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 12

It was supposed to be a picturesque and luxurious sightseeing tour over Antarctica. One filled with wonder and awe, in a tour that had cultivated a reputation for giving passengers the “trip of a lifetime.” But what began as an adventurous flight near Mt. Erebus, the southernmost active volcano in the world, became one of New Zealand’s most catastrophic accidents. What really happened? And who was ultimately responsible? Meanwhile, President Carter had just lost the election to Ronald R

Jan 8, 2024 • 35:59

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan 1, 2024 • 1:43

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 25, 2023 • 1:44

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 11

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 11

“You are now leaving Iranian air space!” It was a moment that dozens of hostages and their loved ones longed for with bated breath, for 444 days. Freedom. To be released, and returned home. The Iranian hostage crisis captured the attention of the world, but how did we get there? President Jimmy Carter was in Iran for a New Year’s celebration in 1978, and his infamous toast would have become a viral clip had it taken place today. Little did he know that days later, an Iranian newspaper a

Dec 18, 2023 • 39:14

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 10

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 10

A religious leader with a raging drug addiction who led his following to a tragic end. A President with the hope of finding peace between Israel and Egypt. And a politician who was pivotal to the early LGBTQ+ rights movement, and lost his life in the process. Join us as we explore the stories of three men in 1978 who all had specific visions of the world, and the reality of those visions coming to fruition. If you’ve ever wondered where the term “Don’t drink the Kool-Aid” came from, or

Dec 11, 2023 • 44:27

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 9

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 9

Did you know that Star Wars almost started a war in real life, over a sandcrawler model? Would the film have been so wildly successful if someone else had been cast in the role of Han Solo, such as – let’s say – Christopher Walken? How would a band today be received if their drug use was so integral to their music, that they considered thanking their dealer in the liner notes? And let’s take that iPhone from your pocket, and compare it to the speed of an Apple II computer in 1977, which

Dec 4, 2023 • 42:38

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 8

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 8

A happenstance introduction to Charles Manson. Assassination attempts against President Ford– a man who was never elected to the vice presidency or presidency. And the kidnapping of college student and newspaper heiress, 19-year-old Patty Hearst, that rocked the nation. Following Nixon’s resignation and the end of the Vietnam war, the country was in freefall. When, and how, did the U.S. begin to mend its wounds from political scandal and years of a grueling war? And what role did an unc

Nov 27, 2023 • 42:33

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 7

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 7

Draft dodging. When did the draft lottery begin for the war in Vietnam, and who among America’s youth was hit the hardest? It was an unwinnable war, and thousands of high school graduates and college students refused to comply. What sparked these explosive protests nationwide? What role was marijuana and heroin playing back in Vietnam? And how did two decades of the costly, divisive conflict finally come to an end? Writer, Host, and Executive Producer: Sharon McMahonAudio Producer: Jenn

Nov 20, 2023 • 47:29

Enough with Cassidy Hutchinson

Enough with Cassidy Hutchinson

It was the worst attack on the US Capitol in modern American history. What was it like to be on Capitol Hill and be in the White House through that tumultuous time? Sharon is joined by Cassidy Hutchinson, former special assistant to President Donald Trump and his chief of staff, Mark Meadow, who was an integral witness in the January 6th hearings. Cassidy shares her personal experience in her book, Enough, and gives an insider perspective. When democracy is in jeopardy, and character is

Nov 16, 2023 • 45:35

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 6

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 6

A cover up that cost Nixon's presidency, a pardon that cost Gerald R. Ford his election, and a friendship dating back to the 1940s. It was the first time a President had been impeached, and the only time in U.S. history that a President resigned from office. The betrayal of the public’s trust reverberated well beyond Nixon’s presidency in a time of economic turmoil, but what happened following Nixon’s departure from office? How did the new Ford administration attempt to gain control ove

Nov 13, 2023 • 33:58

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 5

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 5

The right to privacy, a 22-year-old who went by the pseudonym “Jane Roe,” and one of the most famous court cases in United States history. Join us as we learn what happened leading up to Roe v. Wade, the fate of Norma McCorvey following the Supreme Court’s ruling, and how this piece of history echoes in the present day. That is not the only ghost of 1973 history that is still relevant, though. If you’re curious about how an oil embargo in the 70s impacts today’s gas prices and oil reser

Nov 6, 2023 • 41:23

Defending Democracy with Adam Kinzinger

Defending Democracy with Adam Kinzinger

What does it mean to be on the right side of history? That was a question today’s guest, Adam Kinzinger, asked himself when he chose to serve on the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th attack on the United States Capitol. Kinzinger joins Sharon to discuss his experience serving on the committee to defend democracy, and the personal sacrifice tied to prioritizing principals over party. If members of Congress are willing to send men and women to war to sacrifice their li

Nov 2, 2023 • 42:49

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 4

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 4

Deep Throat, Operation Gemstone, two valiant reporters, and a secret 30 years in the making. Watergate was not a single scandal, but rather an avalanche of events and co-conspirators, all engaged in corruption to keep President Nixon in office. The stakes were so high that Nixon’s Special Security Advisor, G. Gordon Liddy, lived under fear of being assassinated, and the wife of Nixon’s Campaign Director & Attorney General was drugged and held captive in a hotel room to keep her sile

Oct 30, 2023 • 35:18

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 3

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 3

“The week that changed the world.” Was it a chance encounter at the World Tennis Championship in 1971, “Panda diplomacy” between the U.S. and Communist China, or a break-in at the Democratic National Headquarters by a team of 5 burglars, that drastically altered the trajectory of world history? It was around this time that the Women’s Equity Action League also filed one of the farthest reaching Class Action lawsuits, leading to President Nixon signing the Education Act into law. Join us

Oct 23, 2023 • 33:38

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 2

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 2

Secret Police, CIA operatives, The Pentagon Papers, and The Most Dangerous Man in America. There was a time in the not-so-distant past, when the nightly news changed the game in how Americans felt about the war in Vietnam, the first “television war.” What was more of a shock to some though, was the realization that the American public had been lied to for decades by the U.S. government, spanning four presidential administrations. How did this influence the Watergate scandal? And how did

Oct 16, 2023 • 42:39

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 1

Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew, Episode 1

Welcome to our new series, Mayhem: The 1970s You Never Knew. Over the next few weeks we’ll take a journey through the Decade of Defiance, with all its scandals and secrets. As the decade devolved into war at home and abroad, Apollo 13 flew high above earth with the hope of landing safely on the surface of the moon. But then: disaster struck, and time was on no one’s side. Meanwhile, thousands of miles below the Apollo 13 spacecraft, a nationwide uprising among college students ended in

Oct 9, 2023 • 45:53

Nothing Is Missing with Nicole Walters

Nothing Is Missing with Nicole Walters

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes back close friend and CEO, Nicole Walters, to share all about her captivating memoir, Nothing Is Missing. The daughter of Ghanaian immigrants, Nicole writes about her experience growing up in America through the lens of a different kind of American dream, both in how she was raised, and by forging her own path as a TV personality, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur building a multi-million-dollar business. Nicole talks with

Oct 6, 2023 • 46:26

Jewish Space Lasers, QAnon, and Two Centuries of Conspiracy Theories with Mike Rothschild

Jewish Space Lasers, QAnon, and Two Centuries of Conspiracy Theories with Mike Rothschild

Joining Sharon today is Mike Rothschild: journalist, author, and conspiracy theorist expert who dives deep into the history of conspiracy theories over the last two centuries. In his new book, Jewish Space Lasers: The Rothschilds and 200 Years of Conspiracy Theories, Mike Rothschild – who is of no relation to the Rothschilds family referred to in the book – shows how many conspiracy theories today are directly connected to the same antisemitic rhetoric, myths, and accusations reaching b

Oct 4, 2023 • 41:08

Differ We Must with Steve Inskeep

Differ We Must with Steve Inskeep

On today’s episode, Sharon welcomes NPR’s Steve Inskeep, who has written a number of books about history including his newest release, Differ We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America. In a time when it’s common to cancel or cut ties with those we disagree with, what can we learn from Abraham Lincoln about how to disagree fundamentally, while maintaining the relationship? Even when at odds with a dear friend over the issue of slavery,  Lincoln wrote, “If for this you and I mus

Oct 2, 2023 • 39:50

The Evolution of Social Media with Taylor Lorenz

The Evolution of Social Media with Taylor Lorenz

Joining Sharon on the podcast today is well-known reporter Taylor Lorenz, who has written for The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Atlantic, covering technology from the user perspective as an authority on Internet culture. In her new book, Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet, Taylor takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane beginning with the rise of blogger culture, and weaving through the roads of social media and how the usage o

Sep 29, 2023 • 36:24

Sure, I'll Join Your Cult with Maria Bamford

Sure, I'll Join Your Cult with Maria Bamford

Joining Sharon today is comedian and author Maria Bamford, who shares the hometown of Duluth, Minnesota. Together, they discuss how Maria began her career as a comedian, and dive into her book: Sure, I'll Join Your Cult: A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere. In this delightful conversation, they playfully banter about the irony of fundraising benefits, what makes one susceptible to cult-like mentality, and explore the cultural shift that has allowed society to spe

Sep 27, 2023 • 35:04

Democracy Awakening with Heather Cox Richardson

Democracy Awakening with Heather Cox Richardson

Sharon welcomes back political historian, author, and professor Heather Cox Richardson, one of our most popular podcast guests of all time, who has a new book out: Democracy Awakening. Taking a different approach to this book from her previous work, Heather answers some of the big picture questions – once and for all – that readers have asked for years, relating directly to America’s current standing as a Democracy. When did the political parties change sides? Is America a Democracy, or

Sep 25, 2023 • 42:11

Before the Movement with Dylan Penningroth

Before the Movement with Dylan Penningroth

In today’s episode, Sharon’s guest is Dylan Penningroth, whose new book, Before the Movement: The Hidden History of Black Civil Rights, brings to light a new narrative of Black life in America. It’s a fascinating history of how African American communities used law, talked about law, and thought about law for almost two centuries, in ways that enabled the Civil Rights Movement before it even began. Pulling back the curtain, it explores how race actually works in American law, and does s

Sep 22, 2023 • 46:40

What an Owl Knows with Jennifer Ackerman

What an Owl Knows with Jennifer Ackerman

Joining Sharon today is Jennifer Ackerman who has written a new book titled, What an Owl Knows, to discuss some new, rich scientific discoveries about these captivating and intriguing birds. Owls have often been a symbol of knowledge and wisdom, but what does an owl truly know? In a conversation both kids and adults can enjoy, Jennifer shines a light on the 260+ species of owls, to understand the depth and complexities of these enchanting creatures. Scientists are still discovering owl

Sep 20, 2023 • 46:47

Secret Societies and American Democracy with Colin Dickey

Secret Societies and American Democracy with Colin Dickey

Sharon is joined today by cultural historian and author Colin Dickey, to discuss America’s fascination with conspiracies, and fear of secret societies. In his new book, Under the Eye of Power, Colin walks through the history of how paranoia is woven into the very fabric of The United States from its inception, and how conspiratorial thinking and even the most irrational beliefs reach the mainstream. From the Salem Witch Trials to Freemasonry to the Satanic Panic, the Illuminati, and QAn

Sep 18, 2023 • 39:23

Coming of Age in a Digital World with Devorah Heitner

Coming of Age in a Digital World with Devorah Heitner

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon sits down with Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World and Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World. At a time where every minor detail, fleeting thought, and potential misstep can be publicly documented and scrutinized online, how are parents, teenagers, and mentors expected to navigate growing up in the digital age? We all want the “right” answers, a

Sep 15, 2023 • 49:07

The Rough Rider and the Professor with Laurence Jurdem

The Rough Rider and the Professor with Laurence Jurdem

On today’s episode, Sharon is joined by author and professor Laurence Jurdem to discuss his book, The Rough Rider and the Professor, about the unusual thirty-five-year political friendship between President Theodore Roosevelt and Senator Henry Cabot Lodge. While Roosevelt famously “rose like a rocket,” in the political spotlight with his larger-than-life personality, it was arguably his machiavellian friend Cabot who lit the fuse, and used his vast social network to boost Roosevelt. In

Sep 13, 2023 • 45:45

Oppenheimer with Kai Bird

Oppenheimer with Kai Bird

Sharon’s guest today is Kai Bird, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author of American Prometheus, which is the biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer that the blockbuster Christopher Nolan film was based on. Join us while Kai shares his experience of what it was like to have his work turned into a historically accurate major motion picture, and how he conducted the research required to capture the life of Oppenheimer. If you are interested in learning more about the mid-Century, World W

Sep 11, 2023 • 40:21

Tyranny of the Minority with Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt

Tyranny of the Minority with Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt

American Democracy has faced some challenging times, living through a modern day political crisis. Today, Sharon is joined by Harvard professors of government, Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt to dig into all things Democracy. In their new book, Tyranny of the Minority, they explore how democracies break down throughout history and find the striking pattern that political minorities often govern over political majorities. Factor in the unsettling truth that the Constitution – even wit

Sep 8, 2023 • 52:28

The Myth of Educational Reform with Dr. Bettina Love

The Myth of Educational Reform with Dr. Bettina Love

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’re discussing all things public schools: The good, the bad, and the controversial. Joining Sharon is Dr. Bettina Love, Professor at Teachers College, Columbia University who has a new book out: Punished for Dreaming. Between chronic school underfunding, pressure placed on standardized testing, the devaluing of educators, teacher burnout, and a list of ongoing systemic challenges, many agree that something needs to change in the

Sep 6, 2023 • 57:59

Proclaiming the Truth of Black Dignity with Jasmine Holmes

Proclaiming the Truth of Black Dignity with Jasmine Holmes

We’re joined today by returning guest, Jasmine Holmes, to dive into the state of Black history education in America, and to discuss her new book, Crowned with Glory: How Proclaiming the Truth of Black Dignity Has Shaped American History. Jasmine shares about Black abolitionists who fought for the dignity of their fellow mankind based on the principle that because people are created in God’s image, they have inherent dignity, worth, and human rights. When pockets of resistance throughout

Sep 4, 2023 • 35:01

How Far to the Promised Land with Esau McCaulley

How Far to the Promised Land with Esau McCaulley

In today’s episode, Sharon is joined by Esau McCaulley for a powerful conversation about his new book, How Far to the Promised Land. In his memoir, he took the story of his family and showed the struggles of Black people in America intergenerationally. Esau shares how it’s vital to understand how the stories of our ancestors – though they might seem insignificant – impact and shape generations to come. In a country that highly values “pulling yourself up by your bootstraps,” and the und

Sep 1, 2023 • 40:05

A Heart on Fire with Danielle Coke Balfour

A Heart on Fire with Danielle Coke Balfour

On today’s episode, Sharon welcomes back Danielle Coke Balfour, who you may know as founder and illustrator of “Oh Happy Dani.” Sharon chats with Dani about her new book, “A Heart on Fire: 100 Meditations on Loving Your Neighbors Well.” At a time when it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the 24-hour news cycle and information overload, Danielle pauses and shares that it’s important to, “let each day be the evidence of a heart on fire,” by living in alignment with your values. In her boo

Aug 30, 2023 • 42:44

Humor, Grief, and Modern Motherhood with Taylor Wolfe

Humor, Grief, and Modern Motherhood with Taylor Wolfe

Today, Sharon welcomes back comedian and writer Taylor Wolfe to discuss her heartwarming memoir, Birdie & Harlow - Life, Loss, and Loving My Dog So Much I Didn't Want Kids (Until I Did). You might know Taylor from following her online at The Daily Tay, where she’s known for her entertaining videos and impressions of influencers, along with characters we’re all too familiar with from everyday life. Together, they discuss the nuance of modern motherhood when everyone has an opinion, t

Aug 28, 2023 • 38:17

Banning Books with Suzanne Nossel

Banning Books with Suzanne Nossel

In this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon sits down with Suzanne Nossel, CEO of PEN America, to talk about some of the issues related to free expression and book banning. With more than 4,000 book bans at last count, this is an issue that has swept across the nation. Suzanne discusses what kind of book bans they see the most, and how veiled language about “protecting children” is used to remove books that contain narratives only a minority of people find uncomfortable.

Aug 25, 2023 • 38:27

The Republican Presidential Nomination with Doug Burgum

The Republican Presidential Nomination with Doug Burgum

Sharon is joined by North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum to hear directly from the Republican Presidential candidate ahead of the presidential debate. In a time of cold wars, culture wars, and economic unknowns, Burgum makes the argument that it’s time for the federal government to refocus its priorities. Burgum also took the position that it’s time to “get away from the celebrity President and get back to the idea that the President is an operating job, and needs to focus on the job descripti

Aug 23, 2023 • 36:20

Jackie O: Public, Private, Secret with J. Randy Taraborrelli

Jackie O: Public, Private, Secret with J. Randy Taraborrelli

Today, on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon connects with journalist and celebrity biographer, J. Randy Taraborrelli, to chat about his new book “Jackie: Public, Private, Secret.” In his book, he paints a portrait of the lesser known parts of the iconic life of Jackie Kennedy Onassis. We all know public details of her time as First Lady in the White House, and recall the historic imagery of her wearing a pink Chanel suit with the matching pink hat on the day President Kennedy was

Aug 21, 2023 • 42:15

Hubert Humphrey and the Fight for Civil Rights with Samuel Freedman

Hubert Humphrey and the Fight for Civil Rights with Samuel Freedman

Today, Sharon sits down with author, journalist, and educator, Samuel Freedman, to discuss a man who has arguably gotten too little credit in the Civil Rights Movement: former VP Hubert Humphrey. There would be no Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and 60s without the groundwork that was laid in the 1940s. The battles Humphrey faced overlap with many of the same battles being fought now: Against white supremacy, “America First” policies, and Christian Nationalism. What inspired a very “

Aug 18, 2023 • 47:55

Poverty, by America with Matthew Desmond

Poverty, by America with Matthew Desmond

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon is joined by Matthew Desmond, Professor of Sociology at Princeton University and the founding director of the Eviction Lab. Together, they discuss his best-selling book, “Poverty, By America,” and take a hard look at poverty in one of the richest countries in the world, while reimagining the debate on poverty. We all know that poverty is an existing problem in the United States, but what does that actually mean? How is the “poverty line”

Aug 16, 2023 • 51:08

How to Survive History with Cody Cassidy

How to Survive History with Cody Cassidy

Have you ever played alternative history and wondered how you’d survive being in steerage on the Titanic, or how you would have fared during The Black Death? Today, Sharon sits down with Cody Cassidy, author of “How to Survive History" to take a look at some of the most catastrophic events in world history. They discuss how past events might inform how to respond to future ones and how escape plans can be an interesting and fun way to learn about history. People often ask, “Is this the

Aug 14, 2023 • 39:11

Better Together with Will Hurd

Better Together with Will Hurd

Presidential Candidate Will Hurd joins Sharon to chat about engaging voters in primary elections to ensure stronger candidates in November. The country is ready to have thoughtful conversations about what issues matter to them in a way that unites, rather than divides. Whether the district was ruby red or a deep blue town, people share the same frustrations and goals. Everyone wants systems that operate fairly and efficiently, from the justice system to immigration. But how might our go

Aug 11, 2023 • 42:55

The In-Between with Hadley Vlahos

The In-Between with Hadley Vlahos

Sharon is joined by Hadley Vlahos, RN, who has written a bestselling book about her experiences working as a hospice nurse. Hadley walks us through the discomfort of death with great compassion and empathy while considering what it means to live well, and to die well. She explores commonalities in death spanning across a variety of faith backgrounds, many of which have no definitive scientific explanation. We’re encouraged to embrace the dignity in dying by allowing our loved ones to sh

Aug 9, 2023 • 42:40

Valiant Women with Lena Andrews

Valiant Women with Lena Andrews

On today’s episode, Sharon is joined by CIA military analyst, WWII expert, and debut author, Lena Andrews, to unveil the scale and scope of what women in uniform contributed during WWII. Over 350,000 American women served in uniform during the war, in every service branch, in every combat theater, and in nearly two-thirds of the available military occupations at the time. This ranged from critical support roles of flying planes across the country, drawing maps to help men get through No

Aug 7, 2023 • 45:57

Women in White Coats with Olivia Campbell

Women in White Coats with Olivia Campbell

Sharon is joined by Olivia Campbell, author and journalist who marries the history of medicine in the Victorian era with stories of three audacious women who overcame profound sexism, societal stigmas, and a sea of obstacles to receive higher education. When diving into her book, “Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine,” we are reminded that medicine has not always been viewed in high regard, and once upon a time, “med-school” lasted mere months.

Aug 4, 2023 • 37:47

“The Scandalous Hamiltons” with Bill Shaffer

“The Scandalous Hamiltons” with Bill Shaffer

Sharon sits down with author and historical researcher, Bill Shaffer, to learn untold stories of a Hamilton descendant in his gripping book, “The Scandalous Hamiltons: A Gilded Age Grifter, a Founding Father's Disgraced Descendant, and a Trial at the Dawn of Tabloid Journalism. Today, if an author pitched a book proposal with as many twists and turns as this true story holds, it would likely be considered too far-fetched to be believable. Learn how curiosity from a fountain in Riverside

Aug 2, 2023 • 36:56

The Shadow Docket with Stephen Vladeck

The Shadow Docket with Stephen Vladeck

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes law professor Stephen Vladeck to nerd out about all things The Supreme Court. Stephen dives into the elusive behind-the-scenes “shadow docket,” and how 99% of what the court does is in the shadows – without public hearings, and without explanation. With approval ratings of the The Supreme Court at a historic low, what can Congress and the average American citizen do to hold the court accountable, and foster transpar

Jul 31, 2023 • 39:56

Learning to be Gutsy with Natalie Franke

Learning to be Gutsy with Natalie Franke

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes back author and friend, Natalie Franke. Natalie’s new book, “Gutsy” is all about how we develop the courage in our own lives to do what we need to do. When we treat failure as the scapegoat, we often ignore the fact that fear is truly the culprit for why we get stuck, or postpone handling even simple tasks. Learn what it means to live with bold, brave, and boundless courage.Special thanks to our guest, Natalie Franke, for joinin

Jul 28, 2023 • 47:20

Undercover Inside Hate Groups with Matson and Tawni Browning

Undercover Inside Hate Groups with Matson and Tawni Browning

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon has a conversation with Matson and Tawni Browning about their book, The Hate Next Door. Matt gets candid about his time working undercover in white supremacist groups and what it was like to balance his dueling realities: where the job ended and where his home life began. Matt and Tawni also talk about the type of person white supremacist hate groups target for recruitment and the types of messaging they rely on to spread th

Jul 26, 2023 • 48:11

How to Tell When You've Joined a Cult with Amanda Montell

How to Tell When You've Joined a Cult with Amanda Montell

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon is joined by author Amanda Montell to talk about all things cultish. There isn’t always a standard definition of a cult, but there are things to look for, and we’ve all fallen for cultish practices or groups before. Language is often used as a tool of influence, like thought-terminating cliches, mantra phrases that are used to shut down independent thinking or questioning. Cultish leaders also take advantage of people by relying on our c

Jul 24, 2023 • 38:54

The Constitution in Jeopardy with Russ Feingold

The Constitution in Jeopardy with Russ Feingold

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes former Senator Russ Feingold to the show. Russ is a three-term senator from Wisconsin and his new book, The Constitution in Jeopardy, talks about Constitutional evolution; how the framers built in mechanisms to change it when necessary. One of those mechanisms is the Constitutional Convention–a convention that the United States has never held. What might a convention change, and what are the dangers of it? Could a c

Jul 21, 2023 • 44:42

Bears, Bulgaria, and Soul Boom with Rainn Wilson

Bears, Bulgaria, and Soul Boom with Rainn Wilson

Today, on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we welcome a very special guest: Rainn Wilson. You may know him best as Dwight from The Office, or maybe you’ve listened to his podcast with author Reza Aslan, Metaphysical Milkshake. Rainn and Sharon discuss the majesty of Spirit Bears, travel, and starting a spiritual revolution as a way to help heal our worldwide, modern pandemics. They also get real with death, religion, and the temporary nature of materialism.Special thanks to our guest,

Jul 19, 2023 • 47:25

The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee with David Treuer

The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee with David Treuer

Today, on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon connects with author David Treuer who writes about the sweeping history of Native Americans in his book, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee. It’s a history that goes beyond what most Americans are taught about key events or standout figureheads. Native past and present doesn’t pivot solely around tragedy and suffering; and when we tell only those stories, it shapes how we think. David seeks to create a narrative of bounty; Native history may

Jul 17, 2023 • 36:25

Home, Land, Security with Carla Power

Home, Land, Security with Carla Power

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, journalist Carla Power talks with Sharon about radicalism. Her book, Home, Land, Security, seeks to define and clarify extremism; having radical ideas does not necessarily make a person a resort to political violence. So what, then, does? What are the roads that lead people into committing radically extreme acts, and what are the roads that lead them back out from a state of violence? What does it take to de-radicalize people insid

Jul 14, 2023 • 39:18

Built From the Fire with Victor Luckerson

Built From the Fire with Victor Luckerson

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with author Victor Lukerson about the Tulsa Race Massacre. Victor’s new book, Built From the Fire, brings to light the atmosphere and events in Oklahoma that make up the 1921 riot–or as Victor calls it–the pogrom, or organized extermination of an ethnic group. Learn about the violence and destruction white Tulsa wrecked on the prosperous black community of Greenwood, the community's perseverance, and the effects that are still felt

Jul 12, 2023 • 41:49

Until Justice Be Done with Kate Masur

Until Justice Be Done with Kate Masur

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with author Kate Masur, whose book, Until Justice Be Done, shines a light on what we can consider to be the first Civil Rights Movement–the movement for free Black Americans to gain equality from our country’s inception through Reconstruction after the Civil War. We often think of the fight to gain rights as a movement that happened in the 1950s and 1960s, but even in the early 1800s, there was an organized effort to resist racist

Jul 10, 2023 • 39:37

Buried Apologies and a Path Forward

Buried Apologies and a Path Forward

Disinterment and repatriation is important work, but it’s only just begun, and it’s not the only work that needs to be done to acknowledge and atone for the history of Indigenous boarding schools. The Federal Government has not yet provided a centralized place for survivors or descendants of survivors of Federal Indian boarding schools, or their families, to voluntarily detail their experiences in the boarding school system.Which means that there are still generations within the Indigen

Jul 7, 2023 • 45:30

Barriers to a Better Education

Barriers to a Better Education

By the 1960s and early 1970s, activist movements across the country had begun to call for better national policies to support minority groups and the government made attempts to some of the wrongs of the past. But it didn’t always lead to success. So let’s dive in, and talk about the gap between the government’s policy intentions for Native American communities and its not-so-effective execution.Note: We would like to issue a content warning for this episode. Some parts of this episode

Jul 5, 2023 • 41:52

The Pendulum Swings Wildly

The Pendulum Swings Wildly

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we are going to explore an explosive pendulum swing in the mindset of the American people, when the government basically told Native communities: “No more interventions. You’re on your own!” The ominous-sounding Termination Policy fundamentally changed the relationship between the Federal Government and Native Tribes, again, and its reverberations can be felt even today.Note: We would like to issue a content warning for this episod

Jul 3, 2023 • 37:15

Beyond the Mainland

Beyond the Mainland

Today, we are going to explore the Native boarding school systems in Canada, and in our 49th and 50th states, Alaska and Hawaii. The US wasn’t the only nation setting up mandatory residential schools for Indigenous populations, and in the beginning, many of these programs mirrored those of the US with a focus to “civilize” Indigenous children. We’re not referring to merely hundreds of students who were taken from their families, but hundreds of thousands spanning decades. With many stud

Jun 30, 2023 • 40:16

Less Education, More Forced Labor

Less Education, More Forced Labor

In 1880, Richard Pratt opened the Carlisle School’s Outing Program. Pratt framed the programs as an opportunity to give boarding school students real-world experience and cultivate practical skills they learned at school, but in reality, the Outing Programs were nothing more than indentured servitude. By the 1930s, most programs were so corrupt that they were discontinued. Were the programs nixed due to a sudden change of heart? No, it was the result of an independent research organizat

Jun 28, 2023 • 35:32

Death in the Schools

Death in the Schools

In 1908, an anthropologist traveled to the Western states to examine an outbreak of tuberculosis and found that 20 percent–or one in every five–of the residents of Indian Country had contracted the disease. In an effort to contain it, authorities asked the anthropologist to trace the cause of the outbreak and he found it – in the Native American boarding schools. Educating native children was an enterprise that quickly turned lethal as epidemics and contagious illnesses swept through th

Jun 26, 2023 • 39:55

Taken By Force

Taken By Force

As the idea that the best way to handle the “Indian Problem” in America was to civilize their youth took hold in the late 19th century, the amount of boarding schools grew rapidly. But the government couldn’t rely on Native tribes to send their children to schools willingly, so they had to accomplish it another way: by force. Attendance became mandatory, and children were rounded up and sent to live at boarding schools, sometimes hundreds of miles away. They were cut off from their home

Jun 23, 2023 • 43:28

Shaved Heads and Stolen Lands

Shaved Heads and Stolen Lands

Richard Pratt’s boarding schools for Native American children didn’t just materialize out of thin air. The idea that it was the job of the government to try to assimilate Native Americans into European settler culture had been around since the first Europeans stepped foot onto North American soil. So today, let’s jump back in time and connect the dots from the Constitution to forced education.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten

Jun 21, 2023 • 38:31

Pratt's Devastating Experiment

Pratt's Devastating Experiment

Welcome to our new series, Taken: Native Boarding Schools in America where we dive into the complex history of the United States Government's intervention of Indigenous tribes and culture. We’re going to go beyond the Trail of Tears and into the federally mandated programs that took Native children from their homes and placed them in boarding schools. It’s a history of erasure, dominance, violence, and trauma–some of it so concealed that the Department of the Interior is still investiga

Jun 19, 2023 • 38:34

I Won't Shut Up with Ally Henny

I Won't Shut Up with Ally Henny

Writer Ally Henny joins Sharon today to talk about Bruno. But in this context, Bruno–always around, but only talked about in hushed tones–is race. Ally and Sharon have a candid conversation about the pitfalls of Respectability Politics and how white people can do better when it comes to getting uncomfortable in conversations about race. Ally’s new book, I Won’t Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You, is a great place to start if you are looking to understand the

Jun 16, 2023 • 44:07

Break It Up with Richard Kreitner

Break It Up with Richard Kreitner

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with author of the book Break It Up: Secession, Division, and the Secret History of America's Imperfect Union, Richard Kreitner. Richard and Sharon talk about the theme of division throughout American history. We may say we are one nation, united, but there have always been ideas, events, and people who have challenged that notion of unity and union, even back at the very start of the nation’s founding.Special thanks t

Jun 14, 2023 • 37:34

The Value of Building Civic Friendships with Dr. Kerry Sautner

The Value of Building Civic Friendships with Dr. Kerry Sautner

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes guest Dr. Kerry Sautner, the chief learning officer at the National Constitution Center. Kerry and Sharon talk about civic education, and how it can be a building block for a great democracy–but just as important as learning from our past is learning how to communicate and collaborate in the present. Join us to learn more about the National Constitution Center, and the value of civic friendships and access to Americ

Jun 12, 2023 • 46:16

Eight Iconic American Symbols with David Rubenstein

Eight Iconic American Symbols with David Rubenstein

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes back David Rubenstein to talk about his new PBS series, Iconic America. The series takes a look at eight different American symbols, from Cowboys to the Hollywood sign. These recognizable pieces of America have surprising histories, and Sharon and David discuss how symbols evolve and take on new meaning over time.Special thanks to our guest, David Rubenstein, for joining us today. Catch his new PBS series, Iconic America, stream

Jun 9, 2023 • 36:52

Introducing Nerdette

Introducing Nerdette

This week, we’re sharing a special episode from Nerdette from WBEZ, a weekly podcast for nerding out about all the things you're watching, reading, listening to and encountering in real life. In this episode, host Greta Johnsen and her guests give delightful recommendations for your summer reading.Get ready to add a LOT of new titles to your TBR list this summer! Three of the best readers around came on to talk about the books they’re extra excited about: Liberty Hardy, senior contributing edito

Jun 7, 2023 • 38:00

The Teachers with Alexandra Robbins

The Teachers with Alexandra Robbins

Sharon’s guest on today’s episode on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting is author Alexandra Robbins, the author of several New York Times bestsellers. Her newest book, The Teachers, goes behind the scenes to show readers what life is like for teachers in America. She follows three teachers through their trials and triumphs over the course of one school year. Learn about their challenges with being under-resourced and over-scrutinized while they try to make connections and safe learning en

Jun 7, 2023 • 42:30

An America Divided by Region with Colin Woodard

An America Divided by Region with Colin Woodard

Joining Sharon today is Colin Woodard, the director of the Nationhood Lab. Colin is an expert on the regional cultures that make up the United States, and while we tend to think of regional differences as disagreements about our political views, the cultural history goes much deeper than that. Colin has studied how these geographical regional divides pertain to gun violence in America, and his conclusions may surprise you.Special thanks to our guest, Colin Woodard, for joining us today.

Jun 5, 2023 • 49:41

The Real Dr. King with Jonathan Eig

The Real Dr. King with Jonathan Eig

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Jonathan Eig, the author of the new Martin Luther King Jr. biography, King: A Life. Eig spent six full years researching and writing about King’s life. He shares countless moments and pieces of King’s story that get left out of the general image we have of the I Have a Dream preacher. He also argues that, through honoring the Civil Rights activist with a holiday and through flashy quotes and merch like mugs and tees, we lose s

Jun 2, 2023 • 42:13

Life Worth Living with Miroslav Volf and Ryan McAnnally-Linz

Life Worth Living with Miroslav Volf and Ryan McAnnally-Linz

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Yale professors and two of the authors behind Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most. Initially a class in Yale’s humanities program, Life Worth Living sought to find answers to the age-old philosophical question: what’s the meaning of life? The book brings the classroom lessons to a new audience, and Sharon talks to Volf and McAnnally-Linz about how to go beyond TikTok and Cheetos and find true fulfillme

May 31, 2023 • 41:21

Drama Free with Nedra Tawwab

Drama Free with Nedra Tawwab

To kick off a new season of guest interviews, Sharon sits down with the amazing Nedra Tawwab: bestselling author, relationship therapist, and boundaries expert. Nedra and Sharon talk about some of the key ideas Nedra shares in her latest book, Drama Free, and about how to navigate unhealthy family dynamics and relationships and move them into a healthier space. The change starts with us.Special thanks to our guest, Nedra Tawwab for joining us today. Find Drama Free here.Hosted by: Sharo

May 29, 2023 • 40:53

From Hoovervilles to Hummingbirds in Space

From Hoovervilles to Hummingbirds in Space

Do you celebrate National Beer Day on April 7th every year? Did you even know that the U.S. has a National Beer Day? We do! And it’s all thanks to our 32nd president, Franklin D. Roosevelt and his signing of the Cullen-Harrison Act. Celebrated across the country in 1933, the act was just one small step on the path to the ratification of the 21st Amendment and the final nail in the coffin for Prohibition.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny Sn

May 26, 2023 • 37:50

The Tide Begins to Turn

The Tide Begins to Turn

At its beginning, prohibition was spearheaded by outspoken women. Women who saw a need for social change and then set up the scaffolding to build, what they thought, would be a better America. So maybe it won’t be a surprise to hear that the repeal of Prohibition began in pretty much the same way. By the late 1920s, it was clear to many that Prohibition was a big flop. It was especially clear to one of its initial supporters who realized it was time to change her mind.Hosted by: Sharon

May 24, 2023 • 39:54

Luck Be A Lady Governor

Luck Be A Lady Governor

In the middle of the 1920s, when Prohibition was at its peak, leaders and law enforcement could go one of two ways: they could crack down on Volstead Act violators… or they could look the other way. Today, we’ll meet the first two women governors in the nation’s history–and a couple of lawmen–and learn how they handled their duties during Prohibition.  Hosted by: Sharon McMahon Executive Producer: Heather Jackson Audio Producer: Jenny Snyder Written and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Ho

May 22, 2023 • 37:57

White Squares Off Against the KKK

White Squares Off Against the KKK

In its fight for a dry, anti-alcohol nation, the Anti-Saloon League recruited the Ku Klux Klan to join its mission to make Prohibition the law of the land. Klan members themselves weren’t specifically pro-Temperance, but they were happy to use dry laws as a way to target and perpetrate violence against Black Americans, immigrants, Jews, and Catholics. But the power of the Klan was beginning to fade…Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderW

May 19, 2023 • 35:17

A Movie and a Man Who Revived the Klan

A Movie and a Man Who Revived the Klan

How did one of the most popular movies in the country–a blockbuster of epic proportions–fuel the rebirth of the Ku Klux Klan? And how, in just a few short years, did the Klan grow from small pockets of state chapters into a national social organization with a membership in the millions? The KKK and the prohibitionists of the 1920s worked hand-in-hand to turn America into a dry, white, Protestant-ruled nation. As booze dried up in towns across the nation, white supremacy began to rise.Ho

May 17, 2023 • 41:18

A Cocktail Toast to the Mob

A Cocktail Toast to the Mob

On today’s episode of our series on Prohibition, we talk about two things that go hand in hand with the enforcement of dry laws: crime and cocktails. The spread of both was a direct consequence of the 18th amendment as mobsters ruled the violent industry of bootlegging and the rough liquor they sold was made more palatable with mixers. Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Hoback, Amy W

May 15, 2023 • 44:53

The Suckers and Celebrities of the NYC Speakeasy Scene

The Suckers and Celebrities of the NYC Speakeasy Scene

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, it’s a battle between the lawman and the barkeep; we’re going to explore the New York jazz and speakeasy scene. Along the way, we’ll meet a few people who embodied that old adage: sometimes appearances can be deceiving. And, of course, if there’s anywhere in time and place to reinvent yourself, it’s New York City in the 1920s.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heath

May 12, 2023 • 37:09

A Physician, a Rabbi, and a Bootlegger Walk into a Pharmacy

A Physician, a Rabbi, and a Bootlegger Walk into a Pharmacy

By 1920, America was officially a dry country. In theory. In practice, the law came with enough loopholes that opportunists found plenty of ways to make, trade, sell, and guzzle vast quantities of alcohol. Some turned to religion and some walked into a pharmacy with a doctor’s note. Still others knew how to rig the system so well that they made their fortunes and even got away with murder.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and

May 10, 2023 • 45:31

The Whiskey-Guzzling Womanizer in the White House

The Whiskey-Guzzling Womanizer in the White House

As the country went dry at the start of 1920, Americans were ready for a new leader. A stand-up guy, they thought, someone who reflects our morals–a man of the people. The elected Warren Harding, a handsome Ohioan who prided himself on his all-American principles. But behind closed doors, Warren Harding, 29th President of the United States, hid a plethora of dark secrets.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: He

May 8, 2023 • 45:16

If Mabel Had Worn Trousers

If Mabel Had Worn Trousers

Today, we’re going to meet the most powerful woman in America during the Prohibition era. Mabel Walker Willebrandt was the Assistant Attorney General and it was her job to enforce the 18th amendment and prosecute those who flouted the new laws of Prohibition. With a boss that didn’t think she’d succeed and a lazy department who didn’t want to work for a woman, Mabel went after some of the most notorious names in bootlegging… and won.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather J

May 5, 2023 • 38:15

How to Train Kids in the Practice of Temperance

How to Train Kids in the Practice of Temperance

Today in our series about Prohibition, we learn more about the crusade to turn America into a dry nation. It may surprise you to learn that it wasn’t spearheaded by only white Christian women who disapproved of saloons and whiskey. Leaders in the growing civil rights movement also pushed for temperance, and one woman convinced the government that the path to prohibition was best paved through the public school system.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Prod

May 3, 2023 • 43:17

Carrying a Nation into Prohibition

Carrying a Nation into Prohibition

Welcome to the first episode in our new series, From Hatchets to Hoods: The Mayhem of a Dry America! We’re going to begin our series a number of years before the iconic 18th Amendment went into effect, with a growing movement born of domestic and religious fervor, and the women who were gutsy enough to face social problems head on… a hatchet in hand.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGive to the Winds Thy Fears sung by Brianne FlanaginExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny Snyde

May 1, 2023 • 41:11

The First Lady of World War II with Shannon McKenna Schmidt

The First Lady of World War II with Shannon McKenna Schmidt

Today on the show, Shannon McKenna Schmidt joins Sharon to talk about the trifecta of listener-favorite subjects: an American First Lady, World War II, and a secret adventure. Shannon’s new book, The First Lady of World War II: Eleanor Roosevelt's Daring Journey to the Frontlines and Back, chronicles Eleanor Roosevelt’s journey to the Pacific theater during wartime. The five week trip took her through the South Pacific, and began as a secret when she hitched a ride on a transport airpla

Apr 28, 2023 • 40:39

An American Love Story with Ilyon Woo

An American Love Story with Ilyon Woo

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Ilyon Woo, author of the new book, Master Slave Husband Wife, a love story between William and Ellen Craft. You may not be familiar with their names, but the Crafts were a determined enslaved couple who made their escape through disguise and performance, and in their success, defied the limitations of gender and race.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Ilyon WooExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny Sny

Apr 26, 2023 • 39:15

What's Our Problem? with Tim Urban

What's Our Problem? with Tim Urban

Today, on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, co-founder of the website Wait But Why? joins Sharon to talk about a few big ideas, like censorship, the future of big tech, the role of government, and what we can do to combat corruption. They also talk about bad drawings of stick figures, and his new book, What’s Our Problem?: A Self-Help Book for Societies.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Tim UrbanExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderResearcher: Valerie Hoback Host

Apr 24, 2023 • 46:41

The Nazi Conspiracy with Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch

The Nazi Conspiracy with Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch

On today’s episode, authors Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch sit down with Sharon to discuss their New York Times bestselling book, The Nazi Conspiracy. The pair discusses their research and writing process, including what it's like to collaborate on a book together. The Nazi Conspiracy takes readers deep inside the events of the Second World War and the semi-secret, in-person meeting between FDR, Churchill, and Stalin in Tehran. The Nazis grew wise to the meeting and conspired to assassina

Apr 21, 2023 • 42:40

Shipwrecked: Diving with a Purpose with Dr. Sean Kinglsey

Shipwrecked: Diving with a Purpose with Dr. Sean Kinglsey

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes Marine Archeologist Dr. Sean Kinglsey. Learn about how marine archeology is carried out, what the divers look for when they dive and explore shipwrecks, and how the information is pieced together to fill in gaps of the history of human migration--specifically, the transatlantic slave trade, in which 12.5 million Africans were transported around the world against their will. Dr. Kingsley's latest book is Enslaved: The Sunken Hist

Apr 19, 2023 • 39:31

Life in Five Senses with Gretchen Rubin

Life in Five Senses with Gretchen Rubin

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, bestselling author Gretchen Rubin joins Sharon to talk about her newest book, Life in Five Senses. Gretchen talks about how to use our sensory experiences to draw closer to other people and evoke our memories. She is a fan of practical application–trying small things throughout our day to enrich our senses and open us up to more beauty, happiness, and passion for the ways in which we decide to enrich our lives.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Gr

Apr 17, 2023 • 39:42

An Immense World with Ed Yong

An Immense World with Ed Yong

Sharon welcomes guest Ed Yong to Here’s Where It Gets Interesting. Ed’s newest book, An Immense World, How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us. It’s a fascinating look at the rich sensory world of animals, and Ed speaks to Sharon about how exploring this world opens up big, philosophical questions about life. Every creature, humans included, are only really perceiving a very thin sliver of the fullness of reality, and while our perceptions may be limited, we should continue

Apr 14, 2023 • 41:54

Dinner with the President with Alex Prud'homme

Dinner with the President with Alex Prud'homme

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon sits down with author Alex Prud'homme about his book, Dinner with the President, all about White House food. He is the coauthor of his aunt Julia Child's memoir, My Life in France, and merges Presidential history with dishes that were the height of sophistication at one point. An on ramp to this book and conversation can be summarized in this passage: “Presidential meals often had personal meaning, and sometimes con­tained coded politica

Apr 12, 2023 • 40:10

A Fever in the Heartland with Timothy Egan

A Fever in the Heartland with Timothy Egan

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Timothy Egan, a Pulitzer Prize—winning reporter, lifelong journalist, and the author of ten books, most recently the highly acclaimed A Pilgrimage to Eternity and The Immortal Irishman, a New York Times bestseller. His book on the Dust Bowl, The Worst Hard Time, won a National Book Award for Excellence in Nonfiction. His account of photographer Edward Curtis, Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher, won the Carnegie Medal for nonfi

Apr 10, 2023 • 39:27

Secrets of the Civil War: The Rocky Road of Reconstruction

Secrets of the Civil War: The Rocky Road of Reconstruction

After four years of fighting, the Union had persevered in bringing the seceded states back into the fold. But the newly reunited country had a great deal of healing to do. Reconstruction took over a decade, and the passage of several constitutional amendments, to create new scaffolding. And even as a new century dawned, the United States was as segregated as ever.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Ja

Apr 7, 2023 • 45:09

Secrets of the Civil War: The Necessity of Innovation

Secrets of the Civil War: The Necessity of Innovation

In this series, we have covered all sorts of innovations that arose out of the conflict, from deviled ham spread and spy balloons to surgical advancements. Today we are going to continue that exploration with a wide range of new developments like photojournalism, a national currency, and the evolution of premade clothing. It’s a smorgasbord of inventions, y’all!Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jack

Apr 5, 2023 • 46:11

Secrets of the Civil War: Battlefield Angels and Amputations

Secrets of the Civil War: Battlefield Angels and Amputations

Approximately 620 thousand soldiers died in the Civil War, and some historians believe that number might be closer to 750 thousand. But believe it or not, it could have been worse. The Civil War hastened medical advancements out of necessity, and we’re still benefiting from many of these advancements today. Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Hoback, Amy Watkin, and Mandy Reid Hosted

Apr 3, 2023 • 44:26

Secrets of the Civil War: North Toward Freedom

Secrets of the Civil War: North Toward Freedom

Today in our series, Secrets of the Civil War, we’ll meet some of the key players in the Abolition Movement–a persuader, an agitator, and a conductor. Their ideals and actions helped foster the success of the Underground Railroad and the path to emancipation. How did so many enslaved persons seeking freedom make it through the perilous journey North? Through a meticulously organized network of safe houses and stations run by agents and conductors.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Produ

Mar 31, 2023 • 35:52

Secrets of the Civil War: The War Within a War

Secrets of the Civil War: The War Within a War

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’re going to touch on a war you probably didn’t know happened. During the seemingly all-consuming Civil War, there was another entirely different series of skirmishes and battles happening in America. It only lasted 6 weeks, but had devastating consequences.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Hoback, Amy Watkin, and Mandy Reid Hosted on Aca

Mar 29, 2023 • 33:19

Secrets of the Civil War: A Tale of Two Roberts

Secrets of the Civil War: A Tale of Two Roberts

On today’s episode in our series, Secrets of the Civil War, we’re going to hear about two men–both named Robert and hailed as heroes, who had completely different backgrounds – until the Civil War changed the directions of their lives forever. One was a boat thief and the other was a battalion leader.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Hoback, Amy Watkin, and Mandy Reid Hosted on Acas

Mar 27, 2023 • 37:53

Secrets of the Civil War: Survival Off the Battlefields

Secrets of the Civil War: Survival Off the Battlefields

Today, let’s talk about what life was like during the Civil War for people who weren’t on the battlefield. What did they get up and do every day? What did they worry about? We’ll witness the war through the eyes of five women whose stories are symbolic of the real experiences–the hopes, the sorrows, the loneliness and the joy–that countless women endured during the Civil War.Special thanks to the curators of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Museum, including Sister Lavonia “Lee” B

Mar 24, 2023 • 31:42

Secrets of the Civil War: Propaganda in Tune

Secrets of the Civil War: Propaganda in Tune

During the Civil War, the Union used a whole slew of propaganda to win over Northerners: pamphlets, posters, poetry, clothing, cartoons… and music. Performed at rallies where in front of huge crowds about the cause, Civil War songs were specifically written to stir up patriotism and pride. Lyrics praised the bravery of volunteers, and had the dual purpose of encouraging more young men to enlist while boosting the morale of existing troops. Listen in, there’s no doubt you’ll recognize th

Mar 22, 2023 • 34:24

Secrets of the Civil War: A War Won on Food

Secrets of the Civil War: A War Won on Food

Did you know that Hot Pockets, astronaut food, and maple bacon donuts all have their origins in the Battle Between the States? It’s true! During the Civil War, the most important thing for soldiers’ survival wasn’t ammunition or strategic plans. It was FOOD! So grab a snack and settle in.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Valerie Hoback, Amy Watkin, and Mandy Reid Hosted on Acast. See acast.

Mar 20, 2023 • 39:31

Secrets of the Civil War: Intel from the Inside

Secrets of the Civil War: Intel from the Inside

Today in our new series, we are going to discuss the Union, and it might surprise you to learn that spies and spy balloons, classified documents, and racially-motivated riots aren’t just the headlines of today but were also hallmarks of the American Civil War. We often think of the North as the emancipators, the champions of freedom, but that’s not quite the whole story. Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: He

Mar 17, 2023 • 38:22

Secrets of the Civil War: From Camels to Confederacy

Secrets of the Civil War: From Camels to Confederacy

On today’s episode in our series, Secrets of the Civil War, we talk about Jefferson Davis, the man who became the president of the states that tried to secede. And it may come as a surprise to you that Jefferson Davis did have some successful ideas, particularly when it came to importing desert camels into the American West. His successes may have been more surprising to his second wife, the Northern-born Varina, than to anyone else.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather J

Mar 15, 2023 • 46:05

Secrets of the Civil War: A Fractured America

Secrets of the Civil War: A Fractured America

Welcome to the first episode in our series, Secrets of the Civil War. This won’t be a history of the Civil War like you’re expecting. The Union and the Confederacy, divided though they were, experienced incredible changes in medicine, technology, food science, and transportation during four years of conflict. It may surprise you to learn that it wasn’t solely an era of suffering and hardship; it was also an era of innovation and advancement, spies and social evolution. We’re going to ex

Mar 13, 2023 • 38:07

Viewing Earth from Space with Ellen Ochoa

Viewing Earth from Space with Ellen Ochoa

To round out the week on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman who went to space. Ellen flew in space on four different occasions, and after her career as an active astronaut, she became the director of the Johnson Space Center. Listen in to Ellen’s story, and why, in her retirement from NASA, she continues to encourage women, Hispanics, and other underrepresented groups to pursue leadership and STEAM roles.Thank you to our guest,

Mar 10, 2023 • 42:54

The Tragedies and Legacy of the Royal Romanovs with Helen Rappaport

The Tragedies and Legacy of the Royal Romanovs with Helen Rappaport

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, writer and historian Helen Rappaport joins Sharon to talk about a topic our listeners are fascinated by: the last royal family of Russia. The Romanov murder and legacy has long persisted in popular culture. Learn more about their lineage and the parts that often get overlooked. Often, the truth is more interesting than the myth. Special thanks to our guest, Helen Rappaport.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Helen RappaportExecutive Pr

Mar 8, 2023 • 37:14

The Extraordinary Life of The Sergeant with Dean Calbreath

The Extraordinary Life of The Sergeant with Dean Calbreath

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes journalist and author Dean Calbreath, who has spent nearly twenty years researching the life of Nicholas Said, a Civil War Sergeant whose life has become a forgotten history. Siad’s adventures begin in a thousand year-old African kingdom. He was a master of language, a collector of knowledge, a friend to kings and tsars… and he arrived in America as the country warred over enslavement.Thank you to our guest, Dean Calbreath.Hoste

Mar 6, 2023 • 32:22

Pursuing the Truth in History Education with Jasmine Holmes

Pursuing the Truth in History Education with Jasmine Holmes

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we welcome guest Jasmine Holmes. Jasmine is an educator and an author and she sits down with Sharon to talk about the state of history education in America: what it looks like and what it should look like. Why has it become a central topic in our current culture wars and how can we prevent the exclusion of our full and complex history?Thank you to our guest, Jasmine Holmes.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Jasmine HolmesExecutive Producer: Heathe

Mar 3, 2023 • 42:16

Everything You Want to Know About the Federal Reserve with Jeanna Smialek

Everything You Want to Know About the Federal Reserve with Jeanna Smialek

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes New York Times Federal Reserve reporter Jeanna Smialek. Let’s face it, the Federal Reserve (not a prison), is a public-private partnership that’s a little hard to understand. What’s its history? Why do they make the decisions they make–like to raise interest rates–and how do those decisions impact our economy? How much power do they have over financial policy? Jeanna answers these questions with easy-to-understand explanations.

Mar 1, 2023 • 43:43

Edith Wilson: the Seat of Untold Power with Rebecca Boggs Roberts

Edith Wilson: the Seat of Untold Power with Rebecca Boggs Roberts

Historian Rebecca Boggs Roberts joins Sharon on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting to talk about her upcoming book, Untold Power. Long time listeners are no strangers to the lives of First Ladies, and today we talk about Edith Wilson, who was so much more than just her husband’s wife. When she met Woodrow Wilson, she was an independent, fashionable small business owner, and she had no plans to stand in the shadows.Thank you to our guest, Rebecca Boggs Roberts.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGues

Feb 27, 2023 • 46:53

An Assassin in Utopia with Susan Wels

An Assassin in Utopia with Susan Wels

Joining Sharon on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting is Susan Wels, whose new true crime book, An Assassin in Utopia, proves that real life really is stranger than fiction. Stay tuned as we dive into the intimacies of the utopian Oneida cult community–its famous members, its principles, and the unthinkable murder that tarnished its reputation… but not its silverware.Please note that this episode contains mature content and may not be suitable for young children.Thank you to our guest, Sus

Feb 24, 2023 • 41:38

I Saw Death Coming by Kidada Williams

I Saw Death Coming by Kidada Williams

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon welcomes guest Dr. Kidada Williams, author of the book, I Saw Death Coming. Dr. Williams shares her expertise on a complex period of U.S. history that's regularly distilled down to its simplest policy highlights: Reconstruction. She digs further, and speaks to the daily challenges and realities of the Reconstruction Era for Black Americans.Thank you to our guest, Kidada Williams.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonGuest: Kidada William

Feb 22, 2023 • 43:28

Building the Support Network for Sex Trafficking Survivors with Kat Wehunt

Building the Support Network for Sex Trafficking Survivors with Kat Wehunt

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with fellow Jefferson Award Recipient, Kat Wehunt. Kat is a leading voice in bringing awareness to the human trafficking movement. A survivor, Kat shares facts about human trafficking that may surprise you. Her non-profit, The Formation Project, serves as a community-centered organization for survivors of trafficking, providing them with support, understanding, and empowerment.Please note that this episode contains mature content a

Feb 20, 2023 • 43:13

How Women Won WWII: A New Era Unfolds

How Women Won WWII: A New Era Unfolds

Before we wrap up our series on how Women Won World War II, we need to talk about what happened next. It was the question on everyone’s mind in the summer of 1945. The Axis Powers had been defeated, soldiers were on their way home, and the destruction from the war had devastated countless cities across Europe. In America, citizens wondered, “What happens now?”Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackso

Feb 17, 2023 • 33:56

How Women Won WWII: With a Flash and a Rumble

How Women Won WWII: With a Flash and a Rumble

For 3 years, scientists in secret cities around the U.S. had been in a race against time to complete the world’s first atomic weapon. And in July of 1945, the very first plutonium bomb was ready. Constructing “The Gadget” as it was called, had taken 2 billion dollars and the collective work of 400,000 people. It was ready to be tested. And it needed to work. Join us to hear more about the infamous Trinity test, and what followed for our women scientists who finally had a clearer picture

Feb 15, 2023 • 33:49

How Women Won WWII: Caught by the Enemy

How Women Won WWII: Caught by the Enemy

Today, in our documentary series, How Women Won WWII, we learn about WWII's most decorated spy: a woman whose spirit and determination in the face of danger is unparalleled. Born in France, Odette Sansom joined Britain's SOE and used her unassuming, motherly demeanor to successfully grow the resistance network throughout the French countryside. But the work was perilous, and the Nazis closed in on Odette and her team. Tune in to learn her survival story.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutiv

Feb 13, 2023 • 38:07

How Women Won WWII: The Confidante, Anna Rosenberg

How Women Won WWII: The Confidante, Anna Rosenberg

On today's episode, we hear from author Christopher Gorham, whose new book, The Confidante, is the first-ever biography written about one of the United State's most powerful women: Anna Rosenberg. Join us as Christopher and Sharon share about Anna's life and contributions to the modern shaping of our American Government.Thank you to our guest, Christopher C. Gorham. Preorder The Confidante: The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shape Modern America, out Feb 21st.Hosted b

Feb 10, 2023 • 34:12

How Women Won WWII: AABBA and the Art of Codebreaking

How Women Won WWII: AABBA and the Art of Codebreaking

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, let's break some secret wartime codes. Shakespeare and Al Capone. What could possibly be a link between these two men who were born centuries apart? A master codebreaker named Elizebeth Smith Friedman. If her name doesn’t sound familiar, there’s a reason for that. Even though she is one of the pioneers of cryptanalysis, very few people knew about her war-changing contributions until after her files were declassified in 2008.Hosted by: Sharon Mc

Feb 8, 2023 • 38:04

How Women Won WWII: Sabotage and a Jewish Spymaster

How Women Won WWII: Sabotage and a Jewish Spymaster

Today in our series, we return to the art of espionage. During World War II, Prime Minister Winston Churchill understood that boots on the ground were only one piece of the puzzle to drive out the enemy. In order to sabotage German operations across Europe, he knew Britain needed to build an army of secret agents. And one of its most successful leaders was a Romanian-born Jewish woman named Vera Atkins.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny Sny

Feb 6, 2023 • 34:48

How Women Won WWII: The Booming Work of Women Scientists

How Women Won WWII: The Booming Work of Women Scientists

In a previous episode of our series, we had a conversation about the combined efforts of the Allied science community to beat Germany in the race to understand and build atomic weapons. It was a team effort, and you know what? We barely scratched the surface. Today, we’ll peek into the minds of some of the greatest women scientists during World War II.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Sharo

Feb 3, 2023 • 36:05

How Women Won WWII: British Wrens at War

How Women Won WWII: British Wrens at War

Today in our series, How Women Won WWII, let’s head to Great Britain and learn about a military organization that recruited women into the war effort all across the country. Women volunteered in great numbers and, throughout the war, thousands of women participated. You might even call them…a flock.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Sharon McMahon, Valerie Hoback, and Amy Watkin Hosted on Ac

Feb 1, 2023 • 33:37

How Women Won WWII: By the Glow of Radium

How Women Won WWII: By the Glow of Radium

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we talk about how the United States successfully produced and detonated the first atomic bomb. That success happened through a combination of random events and intricately planned schemes that fed into the speeding train that was atomic technology. The U.S. pops up along those tracks, but the spark that would lead to the bomb began across the Atlantic.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritte

Jan 30, 2023 • 38:31

How Women Won WWII: A Starlette Spies for France

How Women Won WWII: A Starlette Spies for France

In today's episode, let’s talk about a person–a larger than life woman–who utilized her fame and charm to secretly gather intel for the Allies during World War II. She put herself in danger, fought for freedom, saved countless lives… and she did it all while she shimmied her way across Europe in tiny sequined costumes.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Sharon McMahon, Valerie Hoback, and Amy

Jan 27, 2023 • 35:57

How Women Won WWII: The Women of the Secret Cities

How Women Won WWII: The Women of the Secret Cities

Today, on How Women Won WWII, we talk about The Manhattan Project. The top-secret program ran for three war-filled years and employed over 120 thousand people. Most of those people had no idea that they were working on one of the most powerful projects of all time: creating nuclear weapons.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Jackson, Sharon McMahon, Valerie Hoback, and Amy Watkin Hosted on Acast. See

Jan 25, 2023 • 36:01

How Women Won WWII: Rosie the Riveter Was Just the Beginning

How Women Won WWII: Rosie the Riveter Was Just the Beginning

Welcome to our new series, How Women Won World War II. Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore the incredibly varied and complex roles women stepped into during World War II. No, they weren’t GIs. They didn’t land at the beach on Normandy on D-Day, or face military combat, but without a doubt, the roles they performed shaped the way the war was both fought and won.Hosted by: Sharon McMahonExecutive Producer: Heather JacksonAudio Producer: Jenny SnyderWritten and researched by: Heather Ja

Jan 23, 2023 • 36:08

Don’t Underestimate the Power of the State with Melissa Walker

Don’t Underestimate the Power of the State with Melissa Walker

On today’s episode, Sharon talks about the importance of state legislatures with Melissa Walker, an expert from The States Project. Melissa, and The States Project, aims to educate the public on the very real powers that our governing state bodies hold. Don’t like a new law in your state? Don’t blame your senator, hold your state legislators accountable. And the same goes for the reverse: if you want to create real change, you may want to concentrate on influencing your state leaders. H

Jan 20, 2023 • 38:15

The High Stakes of Haaland v. Brackeen with Rebecca Nagle

The High Stakes of Haaland v. Brackeen with Rebecca Nagle

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with award-winning journalist Rebecca Nagle. Sharon and Rebecca talk about an important case that SCOTUS will rule on later this spring: Haaland v. Brackeen. Learn about the history of the Indian Child Welfare Act and how the Brackeen case was built. Rebecca uses easy-to-follow language to break down the intricacies of the lawsuit, from its beginnings as an adoption case in family court to its gathering legal momentum and multiple

Jan 18, 2023 • 44:52

The Humanity Archive with Jermaine Fowler

The Humanity Archive with Jermaine Fowler

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks to author and public library advocate, Jermaine Fowler. Jermaine and Sharon talk about the value of seeing history outside of the binary of either unflawed or unredeemable. We, and our children, need access to a well-rounded history that’s free from white-washing or censorship. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.au

Jan 16, 2023 • 39:02

How to Human with Carlos Whittaker

How to Human with Carlos Whittaker

Today, host Sharon McMahon welcomes back her friend, Carlos Whittaker, to Here’s Where It Gets Interesting. Sharon and Carlos talk about his new book, How to Human. Carlos wants people to pause and think, how do we human (used as a verb!) with intention and goodness? Carlos is a podcast guest favorite, and you'll hear why when you listen in to this conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visi

Jan 13, 2023 • 42:17

Accidental Czar with Andrew Weiss and Brian Brown

Accidental Czar with Andrew Weiss and Brian Brown

On today's episode, Sharon chats with the duo, author Andrew Weiss and illustrator Brian Brown, who are behind the new graphic novel, Accidental Czar, which takes a look at Vladimir Putin's life and his rise to power. As we approach the one year anniversary of Russia’s war on Ukraine, Andrew and Brian give insights into why they chose a graphic novel platform to connect the public to a complex history of Russia’s ruling powers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information

Jan 11, 2023 • 46:11

Comedy for the Curious with Adam Conover

Comedy for the Curious with Adam Conover

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we hear from comedian Adam Conover. Sharon and Adam talk about the intersection of education and comedy. Oftentimes, when we’re ready to laugh, we’re also ready to learn. It’s a philosophy Adam has relied on during his successful career as a comedian who shares interesting facts about the ways the world works. Follow along as the pair talk about their similar childhood experiences with always being “that kid” who asks questions for

Jan 9, 2023 • 34:39

Preserving Presidential Legacies with Mark Lawrence

Preserving Presidential Legacies with Mark Lawrence

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon and guest Mark Atwood Lawrence talk about Presidential Libraries. Mark is the director of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum situated in Austin, Texas. Mark answers questions about Presidential Libraries: how are they funded, what kinds of documents and artifacts does a Presidential Library preserve and why does it need preserving? Sharon and Mark also talk about the LBJ Presidency itself, as well as Lady Bird Johnson’s role as

Jan 6, 2023 • 41:11

The Revolutionary Samuel Adams with Stacy Schiff

The Revolutionary Samuel Adams with Stacy Schiff

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Pulitzer Prize winning author Stacy Schiff about her masterful bestseller, The Revolutionary Samuel Adams. These days, we think of Sam Adams as a face on a beer bottle, but how much do we know about his role in bringing revolution to Colonial America? As Stacy puts it, Adams was playing chess while Britain was playing checkers; he was always hustling, always fervent in the fight for independence. Tune in to hear S

Jan 4, 2023 • 43:36

Declassifying America’s Best Kept Secrets with with Matthew Connelly

Declassifying America’s Best Kept Secrets with with Matthew Connelly

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Professor Matthew Connelly gives us an overview of America’s history with classified information. What does it mean when information is classified? Who decides what information is kept from the public and what’s the process for classification and declassification?  Most importantly, how does government accountability affect the future of our democracy? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener da

Jan 2, 2023 • 43:57

Dinners With Ruth with Nina Totenberg

Dinners With Ruth with Nina Totenberg

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon sits down with legendary NPR Legal Affairs correspondent, Nina Totenberg. Nina wrote a book–not just about her standing dinner dates with the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, but about the importance of friendships between women. Tune in to hear their conversation about connection, support, and thoughtfulness… and stay for the anecdotes about RBG’s goofy side! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more infor

Dec 30, 2022 • 41:26

Finding the Man Within the Myth with Alexis Coe

Finding the Man Within the Myth with Alexis Coe

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with presidential historian Alexis Coe, who talks about her goal as a historian to tell the whole story. We have a tendency to regard many of our U.S. Presidents as heroes, illuminating the ways in which they shaped our nation for the good, that we often gloss over their missteps. Historians piece together facts and details to fill in the gaps of the bigger picture, but how often are our interpretations colored by our

Dec 28, 2022 • 44:08

Memorable Moments of White House Holidays

Memorable Moments of White House Holidays

On today’s special holiday episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’ll learn about how a few of our presidential families have influenced different types of events and customs during the December holiday season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 23, 2022 • 31:37

The War for the West

The War for the West

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we move Westward. While the politics in Washington D.C. were shaping events throughout the rest of the nation, the same can be said in reverse: what was happening in land far from the capital city influenced much of its politics. Join us today at the border of Mexico and Texas to learn about the tipped dominoes that led the U.S. into our first successful war fought on foreign soil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. T

Dec 21, 2022 • 32:06

The Nomadic Life of Army Wife Margaret Taylor

The Nomadic Life of Army Wife Margaret Taylor

On today’s episode, we’re going to move from political power player Sarah Polk to our next first lady: a total frontierswoman who was more comfortable roughing it in the wild with Army soldiers than throwing a society ball in Washington D.C. Come meet Margaret “Peggy” Taylor, and learn about her unusual life traveling to the most remote areas of the nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: ht

Dec 19, 2022 • 33:05

Frederick Douglass: The Powerhouse Abolitionist

Frederick Douglass: The Powerhouse Abolitionist

Today on here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’re going to talk about a person who, by the mid-1800s, was shaping some of the biggest social reform movements to come out of the nation’s Antebellum era. A person who was born with no access and no rights. A person who was born into enslavement, fought his way to freedom, and then worked for a lifetime to ensure that access and equality was given to others. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about li

Dec 16, 2022 • 30:13

The Wealthy & Powerful Sarah Polk

The Wealthy & Powerful Sarah Polk

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, you’ll learn five reasons why Sarah Polk is unique in the constellation of America’s First Ladies. Sarah Childress Polk was a political force because she was so good at seeming not to be. Men and women alike found her intelligent and ambitious, but not threatening. Stay tuned to hear how she used this skill to elevate herself and her husband to the highest positions in the nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more inf

Dec 14, 2022 • 36:14

Women Vs. Whiskey: The Rise of the American Temperance Movement

Women Vs. Whiskey: The Rise of the American Temperance Movement

Did you know that, in the late 1800s, Americans were drinking three times the amount of alcohol we consume today? On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, you'll get a crash course in the history of drinking in America. Learn why Whiskey became the most-consumed spirit, which Former president tried to smuggle in 500 bottles of French Wine without paying taxes on them, and how the Women's Christian Temperance Union chose to voice their support for Prohibition (there's some ba

Dec 12, 2022 • 33:51

Two White House Weddings and a Funeral

Two White House Weddings and a Funeral

Welcome to today's episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting where we'll talk about a president who had three women perform the official duties of the White House Hostess. John Tyler, often called the “Accidental President”, stepped in when William Henry Harrison died a month into his first term. While his incumbency wasn’t filled with many political gains, he did enter the White House with one wife… only to leave it four years later with a different wife. Hosted on Acast. See acast.c

Dec 9, 2022 • 35:53

Deaths in the White House

Deaths in the White House

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, let’s take a brief look at the history of some past presidential deaths–how they happened and what happened after. How has the U.S. government responded to the death of our nation’s leaders? Some of the traditions may surprise you. Do you know which president’s death revolutionized the funeral and embalming industry? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practic

Dec 7, 2022 • 34:07

First Lady of the Month, Anna Harrison

First Lady of the Month, Anna Harrison

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’re going to talk about another First Lady who follows the pattern: married to the president, but never lived in the White House. This time, it was our first lady’s husband - the newly elected President William Henry Harrison - who died a month into his presidency, giving her no reason to leave her Ohio home and travel to Washington D.C. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our pr

Dec 5, 2022 • 34:20

Petticoats and Kitchen Cabinets: A Capital City Shake-Up

Petticoats and Kitchen Cabinets: A Capital City Shake-Up

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we discuss someone whose defiance of social and moral convention irrevocably shaped the nation’s political stage during the Antebellum years. In the 1800s, the role of Victorian women–especially the wealthy wives of prominent political figures–was to serve as protectors of our nation’s values. Those values centered around the home and church: wives were dutiful, modest, faithful, and charitable. But there are always rule-breakers, are

Dec 2, 2022 • 32:50

Cookies, Corsets, and a Legacy of Learning from Hannah Van Buren

Cookies, Corsets, and a Legacy of Learning from Hannah Van Buren

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we’ll continue to talk about some key players of the Jacksonian Era - and, before we get to this infamous scandal in Washington that I’ve been teasing you about, we need to learn about another one of our first ladies who never made it to the White House. Our next President’s wife actually passed away almost two decades before she would have been First Lady. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listen

Nov 30, 2022 • 28:15

Andrew Jackson and the Cheese That Pleased a Nation

Andrew Jackson and the Cheese That Pleased a Nation

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we're going to dive in and take a look at some of the actions and eccentricities of the Andrew Jackson presidency. You may think we’ve talked about all of Andrew Jackson’s quirks by now, but NO! We haven’t even scratched the surface. So join us today, and we’ll talk about cheese, the National Debt, and the time Jackson had to climb out a back window of the White House. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more

Nov 28, 2022 • 32:49

The Catastrophic Marriage Scandal of Rachel Jackson

The Catastrophic Marriage Scandal of Rachel Jackson

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we’re going to talk about a First Lady who never got the opportunity to step foot inside the White House. However, her life had an undeniably major impact on her husband’s two-term presidency. I know we love to hate him, but during this episode, we’re going to discuss the lifelong–and at times scandalous–love and devotion between President Andrew Jackson and his wife, Rachel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information

Nov 25, 2022 • 29:36

The Thanksgiving Episode: From Early Advent to Cranberry Crisis

The Thanksgiving Episode: From Early Advent to Cranberry Crisis

Happy Thanksgiving, friends! On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we take a look at some of the more unusual November holiday White House happenings–from Coolidge’s Thanksgiving Raccoon to Mamie Eisenhower’s hand in the Great Cranberry Crisis of 1959. And if you’re sitting down to share a meal with family and friends this week, don’t forget to give a nod to the woman who made it all possible: Sarah Josepha Hale. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To

Nov 23, 2022 • 29:38

The Networking Strategy of Louisa Adams

The Networking Strategy of Louisa Adams

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, we return to the White House to talk about one of a much-requested topic: our nation’s First Ladies. By the time today’s First Lady entered the White House, the era of the Founding Fathers had come to an end and the country’s economy was prospering. But politics was another story and becoming more divisive by the day. Join us as we talk about the first non-American born First Lady who accompanied her husband to the White House after a

Nov 21, 2022 • 37:06

How the Future Shapes Our National History with Heather Cox Richardson

How the Future Shapes Our National History with Heather Cox Richardson

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon interviews one of our most-requested guests. Listeners regularly write in and ask to hear a conversation between Sharon and political history expert Heather Cox Richardson. That day is today! Heather Cox Richardson shares how she believes the way we use language shapes how we see our political views, allies, and enemies. Together, Sharon and Heather also touch on the ways that our future may change our past. Tune in to under

Nov 18, 2022 • 45:47

Live Life in Crescendo with Cynthia Covey Haller

Live Life in Crescendo with Cynthia Covey Haller

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with author Cynthia Covey Haller. Cynthia shares the mantra that her late father, Steven R. Covey, the author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, aspired to during the last decade of his life, and that was to live life in crescendo. Cynthia expands on this concept, defining it as living life with the goal to keep learning, expanding, and growing with the knowledge that your most important work is always ahead of

Nov 16, 2022 • 34:21

Conservation in a Panda Costume with Ami Vitale

Conservation in a Panda Costume with Ami Vitale

Today on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, National Geographic wildlife photographer Ami Vitale sits down with Sharon to talk about her adventures around the world. Ami is dedicated to spending time with people, places, and animals and sharing their authentic and intimate stories through her camera lens. She speaks about her passion for creativity and environmental conservation efforts, and the idea that an individual may not have the power to change the world, but a great many people t

Nov 14, 2022 • 36:00

Brush Up on Your Boundaries with Melissa Urban

Brush Up on Your Boundaries with Melissa Urban

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with Whole30 CEO Melissa Urban. But Melissa isn’t here to talk only about food. Instead, the duo tackles the important topic of boundaries and our tendency to struggle with saying one very important word: no. Melissa’s green, yellow, and red light framework for boundaries provides an easy guide to both sharing our boundaries with others and easing our anxiety and dread during difficult conversations. This episode is a mu

Nov 11, 2022 • 41:25

Persuaders as Meaning Makers with Anand Giridharadas

Persuaders as Meaning Makers with Anand Giridharadas

Joining Sharon on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting today is author Anand Giridharadas. Anand’s new book, The Persuaders, documents how people persuade others to change their minds and take action. Learn from Anand about how to move from a defeatist attitude of writing one another off. Changing our perspective about “lost causes” may be the exact thing we need to find true connection and repair our fractured relationships and communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informatio

Nov 9, 2022 • 40:42

BONUS Episode! Re:Thinking with Adam Grant: If Teachers Took Over the Government with Sharon McMahon

BONUS Episode! Re:Thinking with Adam Grant: If Teachers Took Over the Government with Sharon McMahon

Listen to Adam Grant's Re:Thinking Podcast interview with Sharon about how we can rethink the qualifications for elected office, who decides to run, and what information voters should weigh. They also address ways to sharpen critical thinking and ponder how to improve Congress with a few thought experiments–including a total takeover of the House and Senate by none other than America’s government teachers. Hear more episodes of Re:Thinking on the TED Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.

Nov 8, 2022 • 49:25

The History of Our Fears and Obsessions with Kate Summerscale

The History of Our Fears and Obsessions with Kate Summerscale

Joining Sharon on Here’s Where It Gets Interesting today is author Kate Summerscale. She recently wrote The Book of Phobias & Manias, which highlights the history of our fears and obsessions. How come so many of us find dolls and clowns unnerving? Why do we react with a shriek when we see a mouse skitter across the kitchen floor? And what super famous American entrepreneur suffered from koumpounophobia... the fear of buttons? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informati

Nov 7, 2022 • 40:35

A Man of Iron with Troy Senik

A Man of Iron with Troy Senik

On this episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon shares a conversation with former presidential speechwriter Troy Senik. Troy is now the cofounder of Kite & Key Media and author of the new book, A Man Of Iron, which is a sweeping biography of a nonconsecutive two-term President whose time in public service often flies under the radar. Can you guess who Troy will be talking about today? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about liste

Nov 4, 2022 • 50:10

All That Is Wicked with Kate Dawson

All That Is Wicked with Kate Dawson

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, author and podcast host Kate Dawson returns! Kate’s new book, All That Is Wicked transports readers to the Gilded Age–a time when money and prestige made it easy to get away with murder. Or almost, in the sensational case of Edward Rulloff. Kate and Sharon talk about the process of researching and telling true stories and how they shaped history. Rulloff’s case forever changed the way we research the criminal mind. Hosted on Acast.

Nov 2, 2022 • 39:10

An Independent Influencer in a Two-Party System with Evan McMullin

An Independent Influencer in a Two-Party System with Evan McMullin

On today’s episode of Here’s Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with US Senate candidate Evan McMullin from Utah, who is running as an independent without special interest group donations. Together they discuss the two-party system, campaign reform, and the danger of partisan extremism. They also talk candidly about Evan’s background as a CIA officer and how it prepared him for a career change into public office. Evan is running with the goal to build a cross-party coalition of De

Oct 31, 2022 • 49:28

Resilience: Your Questions Answered

Resilience: Your Questions Answered

We asked you to write or call in with your lingering questions about Japanese incarceration, so today, on Resilience, Sharon answers your questions. Join us to hear more about what happened to Japanese Americans in Hawaii after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, what happened to the assets of the incarcerated, and where you can find more resources, like oral histories, photos, and video compilations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener da

Oct 28, 2022 • 29:11

Resilience: An Interview with George Takei Pt. 2

Resilience: An Interview with George Takei Pt. 2

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon continues her conversation with actor George Takei about his childhood experiences with forced removal and incarcerated camp life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 26, 2022 • 29:16

Resilience: An Interview with George Takei Pt. 1

Resilience: An Interview with George Takei Pt. 1

On today's episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon speaks with actor George Takei about his childhood experiences with forced removal and incarcerated camp life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 24, 2022 • 38:23

Resilience: Redress and Reparation

Resilience: Redress and Reparation

Today's episode marks the conclusion of our series, Resilience: The Wartime Incarceration of Japanese Americans. During the postwar era, a new generation was born to the Nisei as they returned to their lives outside of incarceration camps. This third generation, the Sansei, were raised by parents who endured years of discrimination and incarceration, but they themselves came of age during the 1960s and 70s–a time in America’s history that saw the of both civil unrest… and transformation

Oct 21, 2022 • 34:10

Resilience: The Fear of What Comes Next

Resilience: The Fear of What Comes Next

Today, on Resilience, we explore what happened when Japanese Americans were told they were free citizens once again. Given only a train ticket and twenty-five dollars, the incarcerated did not know what awaited them once they left. Would they be able to return to their West Coast homes and communities? Or perhaps it would be easier to make a fresh start in a new city. But who would give them jobs? Were there people willing to help an entire population of people who had been, for so long

Oct 19, 2022 • 25:27

Resilience: All the Way to the Supreme Court

Resilience: All the Way to the Supreme Court

On today’s episode of Resilience, we will hear more from Professor Lorraine Bannai about Executive Order 9066, Japanese American resistance, and how they were both important to key Supreme Court Cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 17, 2022 • 41:47

Resilience: The Spirit of Resistance

Resilience: The Spirit of Resistance

On this episode of Resilience: The Wartime Incarceration of Japanese Americans, we are continuing our exploration of camp life. Through it all, many incarcerated found ways to add beauty and joy into their long days and nights. They cultivated the dusty land around them, practiced their crafts, and created a sense of community and belonging. Though they never should have had to, incarcerated Japanese Americans showed strength and resilience from behind fences made of barbed wire. We wil

Oct 14, 2022 • 30:38

Resilience: The Long Days of Camp Life

Resilience: The Long Days of Camp Life

Today on Resilience, we continue our exploration of the wartime incarceration of Japanese Americans. By the fall of 1942, the military had moved most of the imprisoned Japanese Americans from temporary camps into long-term incarceration barracks; camps in isolated locations where they would spend the next few years behind barbed wire fences and stripped of the lives and homes they worked so hard to create for themselves before the war.Joining us today is author Kimi Cunningham Grant who

Oct 12, 2022 • 29:47

Resilience: Only What You Can Carry

Resilience: Only What You Can Carry

On today’s episode of Resilience: The Wartime Incarceration of Japanese Americans, Sharon talks about the military’s limitations on “enemy aliens” both before and after President Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066. Japanese Americans were forced to scramble. They didn’t know the specifics of what was coming next, but they knew that everything was changing rapidly. Military police flooded into West Coast cities, curfews were enacted and enforced, businesses were forced to close indefinitel

Oct 10, 2022 • 27:01

Resilience: The Forced Removal of 120 Thousand Japanese Americans

Resilience: The Forced Removal of 120 Thousand Japanese Americans

After President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, General John DeWitt issued over a hundred exclusion orders in quick succession, and demanded that all Japanese Americans–even those with as little as one-sixteenth ancestry–prepare themselves to be sent to incarceration camps. They had under two weeks to pack up–to give up everything they owned, everything they treasured–and prepare for the unknown.Joining us today is Professor Lorraine Bannai. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Oct 7, 2022 • 27:04

Resilience: A Country at War

Resilience: A Country at War

On today’s episode in our series, Resilience, we talk about what happened immediately following the attack on Pearl Harbor and the death of over 2,400 American servicemen. How did the US government respond and how quickly did they mobilize? What, exactly, became the plan, and how did they carry it out?Joining us for part of the episode is Professor Lorraine Bannai. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices v

Oct 5, 2022 • 30:10

Resilience: Japan Attacks Pearl Harbor

Resilience: Japan Attacks Pearl Harbor

Today on our series, Resilience, we are going to hear more from author Craig Nelson, who shares insights on what exactly happened during the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oct 3, 2022 • 26:24

Resilience: The Movement of Japan in the East

Resilience: The Movement of Japan in the East

On today’s episode in our series, Resilience: The Wartime Incarceration of Japanese Americans, we’re going to take a step back from the American West Coast and talk about some of the events that were happening globally. Events that shaped the relationship between the U.S. and two Asian countries: China and Japan. What led Japan to attack Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941?Joining us is author and historian Craig Nelson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To le

Sep 30, 2022 • 27:46

Resilience: The Patriotic Lives of the Issei and Nisei

Resilience: The Patriotic Lives of the Issei and Nisei

Today we continue our exploration of the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Let’s learn about what life was like for the Japanese immigrants who settled along the West Coast–how they assimilated into American culture, raised their families, and flourished, despite the barriers of restrictive laws and policies and the open hostility from Japanese exclusionists.Passages read by Kimi Cunningham Grant from her memoir, Silver Like Dust. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pr

Sep 28, 2022 • 28:43

Resilience: Asian Immigration and the American West Coast

Resilience: Asian Immigration and the American West Coast

Welcome to the first episode in our new series, Resilience. For the next few weeks, we are going to explore a part of American history that we tend to learn very little about: the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. So let’s dive into the details–the hows and the whys–and learn more about the resilience shown by the 120 thousand Japanese Americans who were forcibly removed from their homes, their neighborhoods, their jobs, and their schools, and who endured governme

Sep 26, 2022 • 37:18

How to Learn Science from a 15-Ton Jello Pool with Mark Rober

How to Learn Science from a 15-Ton Jello Pool with Mark Rober

Welcome to Here’s Where It Gets Interesting! To kick off our new show name, Sharon sits down with one of the most interesting people she knows: Mark Rober, a former NASA engineer who has since amassed over 22 million viewers on his YouTube channel. If there was ever an episode of Sharon Says So that will make your kids think you’re cool for listening, it’s this one. Learn about what motivates Mark to create, and how he hopes his platform will motivate others to both have fun while learn

Sep 23, 2022 • 37:20

Find Relief in the Regular Stuff with Nora McInerny

Find Relief in the Regular Stuff with Nora McInerny

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, author Nora McInerny joins Sharon to talk about vibes: good vibes, bad vibes, and the fact that most vibes are mixed, at best. When we recognize that life is full of regular stuff, it can take the pressure off. It’s okay to have a regular-looking kitchen with a regular, fingerprint-coated toaster! It’s okay to be sad at a funeral instead of feeling compelled to reassure everyone that you’re fine! Feel the stress to perform fade away a

Sep 21, 2022 • 43:56

What Makes a Great Leader Stand Out with Stephen M. R. Covey

What Makes a Great Leader Stand Out with Stephen M. R. Covey

On today’s episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon has a conversation with bestselling author Stephen M. R. Covey about effective leadership and high trust culture. The most underrated attribute in great leaders is humility which means that effective and trustworthy leaders are those who seek to understand first and be understood second. The working world has evolved since the start of the Covid pandemic and its leadership needs to reflect new practices built on the principl

Sep 19, 2022 • 39:58

The U.S. and the Holocaust with Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein

The U.S. and the Holocaust with Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein

On today’s episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we are thrilled to sit down with documentary filmmakers Ken Burns and Sarah Botstein. Their new docuseries, The U.S. and the Holocaust, airs on PBS on Friday, September 18th, 2022 and highlights the nuances of America’s response to the Holucaust. Ken and Sarah talk about their work, and about how it can often be the little known, everyday people–citizens and desk-sitting bureaucrats–who can make a lasting impact on history. Heroism

Sep 16, 2022 • 51:58

How History Can Give Us Hope with Dr. Jemar Tisby

How History Can Give Us Hope with Dr. Jemar Tisby

During this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, historian Dr. Jemar Tisby speaks with Sharon about racism and what we can do about it. We may not be guilty for the actions of the past, but we are responsible for the ramifications of racism that are felt today. It takes courage to make change because fear can be a stumbling block. We fear entering conversations that seem complicated or difficult or fear the push back or judgment we may get from our safe communities, but history

Sep 14, 2022 • 42:28

The Formidable Change-Makers of Women’s Suffrage with Dr. Elisabeth Griffith

The Formidable Change-Makers of Women’s Suffrage with Dr. Elisabeth Griffith

On today’s episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks with Dr. Elisabeth Griffith, who has written a new book called Formidable: American Women and the Fight for Equality: 1920-2020. Many times we think that the passing of the 19th amendment that gave women the right to vote was the finish line of women’s suffrage, but the struggle for equality has been a long road, and has not often been an equal journey for all women. Join the conversation today as Dr. Griffith shares s

Sep 12, 2022 • 42:05

Independent State Legislature Theory Explained with Akhil Reed Amar, Part 2

Independent State Legislature Theory Explained with Akhil Reed Amar, Part 2

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon continues her conversation with constitutional law professor Akhil Reed Amar. They shift gears a little from the U.S. Constitution to a discussion about the controversy around Independent State Legislature Theory. You may have heard it talked about in connection with the upcoming supreme court case, Moore vs. Harper, but the nuances can be tricky to understand. Amar explains the obscurities of the theory and why state legislatu

Sep 9, 2022 • 29:40

The Enduring Value of the U.S. Constitution with Akhil Reed Amar, Part 1

The Enduring Value of the U.S. Constitution with Akhil Reed Amar, Part 1

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon sits down with constitutional law professor Akhil Reed Amar to talk about the importance of treasuring the U.S. Constitution. What we have in common as Americans–Americans who live in different geographical locations, are raised with different experiences and cultures, and even often speak different languages–is our Constitution and the historical events and documents that shaped the nation. Amar shares his journey as a first g

Sep 7, 2022 • 36:15

Life Lessons from The Little Mermaid with Jodi Benson

Life Lessons from The Little Mermaid with Jodi Benson

On today’s episode, Sharon sits down with the voice of a generation: Jodi Benson, the performer who voiced Disney’s Ariel in The Little Mermaid. Jodi was new to show business when she was cast as the voice of Ariel, and it wasn’t considered a “career maker” job; animated films in the 1980s weren’t wildly popular blockbusters like they are now. The Little Mermaid ushered in a new era of success for Disney, and for Jodi. Join us to hear about her journey, and learn which song was almost c

Sep 2, 2022 • 46:41

175. Daniel Boone: Finding Facts in the Folklore

175. Daniel Boone: Finding Facts in the Folklore

So far, we’ve been concentrating on a fairly small geographical area of the United States, and even though much of the political action was happening in the East, Americans were beginning to spread out. They began to move Westward. So let’s talk about one of these early pioneers; a man whose exploration of Kentucky paved the way for new European settlements: His name was Daniel Boone. He just may be one of the most misremembered figures in American history, so together, let’s sort out t

Aug 31, 2022 • 32:55

Elizabeth Monroe’s Journey from Parisian Prison to White House

Elizabeth Monroe’s Journey from Parisian Prison to White House

Join us on Here's Where It Gets Interesting today as we dive into the First Ladyship of Elizabeth Monroe. As the reserved wife of 5th President, James Monroe, Elizabeth added a more formal feel to entertaining in the White House. She was raven-haired and regal, and kept the public at arms length, which wasn’t always a popular decision. She modeled her social engagements after Parisian customs, a city she loved deeply. Stay tuned to learn about her heroic act that once saved the life of

Aug 29, 2022 • 31:02

The Violence Project with Dr. Jillian Peterson

The Violence Project with Dr. Jillian Peterson

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon is joined by Dr. Jillian Peterson, a leading expert in the research of violence, mental illness, and crime. Today’s conversation may not be suitable to listen to with children in the room, but it is an episode you will want to hear. Sharon and Dr. Peterson discuss the myths and media around violence and mass shootings, and how they compare to the research. They also touch on reframing the idea of the “monster with a gun” and wh

Aug 26, 2022 • 44:14

Scandal Sells: The Rise of the American Exposé

Scandal Sells: The Rise of the American Exposé

Today on Here's Where It Gets Interesting we are going to switch gears a bit. We’ve been talking about first ladies and the many people who were closely acquainted with the founding fathers. But what did the rest of the country know about the events and actions happening in the capital city? Where did they get their news? It should come as no surprise to you that political bias and tabloid sensationalism in American media grew right alongside the new nation. Let’s see how journalists af

Aug 24, 2022 • 29:50

Hello, Dolley!: How to Become the Icon of a Nation

Hello, Dolley!: How to Become the Icon of a Nation

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting we are going to meet the woman who set the gold standard for the role of First Lady. Dolley Madison’s natural effervescence came in handy as she executed countless social events for the well-connected and wealthy inhabitants of Washington DC. She relied on the art of entertaining to successfully play the game of politics, which furthered her husband’s influence and career. But that’s just the beginning. Tune in to find out how Dolley w

Aug 22, 2022 • 34:13

How to Move Forward: Changing the Two Party System with Andrew Yang

How to Move Forward: Changing the Two Party System with Andrew Yang

On this episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon has a conversation with former presidential candidate Andrew Yang. After coming off the campaign trail in 2020, Yang began searching for a solution that could change the two-party system in US politics. He recently founded the Forward Party with the hopes to give the American people more viable options for leaders who aim to represent their constituency over party expectations and financiers. Join us as we talk about both the g

Aug 19, 2022 • 49:06

Freedom and the Art of Cookery

Freedom and the Art of Cookery

Today, on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we returned to Monticello and the lives that were intertwined with third President Thomas Jefferson. The young Hemings family, enslaved by birth, grew up in Jefferson’s plantation estate, Monticello. But James Hemings traveled extensively with Jefferson, spending five years in Paris where he learned to cook from Parisian masters. James was well-educated and skilled, but he wanted more. He wanted his freedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv

Aug 17, 2022 • 26:11

The Widower Jefferson and the Women He Loved

The Widower Jefferson and the Women He Loved

On today’s episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we hear about the wife of Thomas Jefferson, Martha, who is listed as an official First Lady, but who passed away nearly twenty years before Jefferson’s presidency. Thomas Jefferson never remarried, but he did rely on two very important women to support him through the years as a widower. Learn about who they were and how their lives were destined to be connected, even before they were born. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy fo

Aug 15, 2022 • 29:45

The Economic Cost of Racism with Heather McGhee

The Economic Cost of Racism with Heather McGhee

In this episode, Sharon is joined by economic policy expert and author Heather McGhee. McGhee began her career as an economist but when she took a trip across the country and back, she began to ask herself, “Why can’t we have nice things?” We’re not talking about robot maids, but rather, the social stability of programs like affordable healthcare and well-funded public schools. While puzzling out the answer to this question, McGhee realized that racism was a major driver of stagnant eco

Aug 12, 2022 • 45:55

Ben Franklin: Beyond the Squeaky Clean Reputation

Ben Franklin: Beyond the Squeaky Clean Reputation

Today, on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon talks about one of the most famous American historical figures: Benjamin Franklin. The history books are not wrong about the incredible accomplishments Benjamin Franklin made during his lifetime. He was a man with an unparalleled mind and an electric personality. He was a champion of charitable causes and really good at making strategic political connections. But he was also a man who undervalued his family and made some questionable pe

Aug 10, 2022 • 32:07

From Paris With Love: Abigail Adams Travels Abroad

From Paris With Love: Abigail Adams Travels Abroad

Today, on Here's Where It Gets Interesting, we revisit a favorite first lady, Abigail Adams. Follow along as Abigail travels across the Atlantic, adventuring in Paris and France with her husband, John Adams. The power couple ultimately lands back in Boston only to move again into new roles, as President and First Lady of the United States. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyin

Aug 8, 2022 • 31:55

A Tale of Two Theodosias and a Well-Kept Secret

A Tale of Two Theodosias and a Well-Kept Secret

On today’s episode of Here's Where It Gets Interesting, Sharon takes us deep into the lives of the women who greatly influenced the same man: Aaron Burr. Theirs are stories of great minds, insatiable appetites for knowledge, grief in motherhood, and untimely tragedy. Listen in as Sharon turns over the stones of their lives and hear about a disappearance at sea, a mysteriously scavenged portrait, and a family secret. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To learn

Aug 5, 2022 • 32:51

163. The Hidden Life of Martha Washington

163. The Hidden Life of Martha Washington

Over the next several weeks Sharon will be sharing stories about the lives of American first ladies and the different ways in which they have influenced their families, the presidency, and the whole of the nation.During her lifetime, Martha was never given the title of First Lady as we know it. Instead, she was called “Lady Washington” and was held in high esteem as George’s “worthy partner.” Today, Sharon dives into many of lesser known details of her life like her first marriage, her

Aug 3, 2022 • 31:33

162. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 17

162. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 17

On the last episode in our series, Momentum, Sharon ties up a few loose ends. The 1950s was a decade full of change, but the Civil Rights Movement didn’t end when the calendar flipped to 1960. Most of the people we’ve followed throughout this series continued their crusade for–or against–civil freedoms well into the next several decades.We hear about Barbara Johns and the next steps in integrated schooling, about Earl Warren and the gains his Supreme Court made in the 60s. We also learn

Aug 1, 2022 • 29:43

161. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 16

161. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 16

On our second to last episode in our series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, We learn about the Civil Rights Act of 1957 and the commission born of it. For two years, the United States Commission on Civil Rights researched and released a 600+ page report about the state of voting rights in the US.They found, time after time, accounts of Black Americans who faced roadblocks and threats of violence or economic punishment when they tried to register to vote. Fear played a large role i

Jul 29, 2022 • 34:36

160. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 15

160. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 15

On today’s episode in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, we learn about the women who gave the movement its backbone. Listen in as Sharon speaks about the Queen of the Civil Rights Movement, Septima Poinsette Clark, and another woman, Bernice Robinson, who, together, were effective teachers and leaders in the Civil Rights community.Septima knew that education was the key to gaining political, economic, and social power and she devoted her activism to improving the

Jul 27, 2022 • 25:30

159. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 14

159. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 14

On today’s episode in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon talks about some of the most important components of a successful movement: money and reputation. Movements take a lot of financial support and many of the organizers worked day jobs with humble salaries. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.? He made $8,000 a year in his position as a minister. But organizing rallies and marches and lectures… filing lawsuits and traveling from city to city? It all costs money.Le

Jul 25, 2022 • 31:14

158. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 13

158. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 13

On today’s episode in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon tackles the vast topic of religion within the Civil Rights Movement. During the Civil Rights Movement, religion was used as a tool of oppression and an excuse for many white people, especially in the South, to remain firm and justified in their belief of white supremacy.But religion was also a catalyst for change. Black churches and congregations invigorated communities by encouraging people to gather,

Jul 22, 2022 • 32:56

157. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 12

157. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 12

Today in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon rewinds and takes us back to the origin story of a life lost far too soon due to a brutal and racist attack: the murder of Emmett Till in 1955. What began with a young boy who desired to connect with family and learn where his mother came from in Mississippi, ended in horror for the Chicago 14-year-old boy. Though no one will ever know exactly what happened in the grocery store co-owned by Carolyn Bryant leading up

Jul 20, 2022 • 37:38

156. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 11

156. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 11

Today in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon talks about the rising popularity of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and how, with greater visibility comes greater threat. We follow Dr. King as he and his comrades persevere through bombings, arrests, scathing rumors, wiretaps, and assassination attempts. Who was one of Dr. King’s biggest adversaries? If you’ve been following along since the beginning of the series, it may not surprise you to know it was J. Edgar Hoov

Jul 18, 2022 • 34:15

155. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 10

155. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 10

Today in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon begins with a woman who is surely familiar to anyone who has received a crash course on the Civil Rights movement in America: Rosa Parks. While Rosa Parks earned her position in history, this story does not begin with a tired woman who simply needed to rest her feet on a bus in Birmingham, Alabama. Before Rosa Parks, there was Lucille Times. And before there was Lucille Times, there was Claudette Colvin. Before Ros

Jul 15, 2022 • 32:03

154. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 9

154. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 9

Today in our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon begins by picking up after the Brown vs. Board of Education decision was released. The courts ordered for integration “with all deliberate speed” which meant slowly and over time. This vague order left room for schools to drag their heels or ignore the ruling all together.A young student activist in Farmville, Virginia, Barbara Johns, organized and led a student strike, peacefully engaging with administrators to pr

Jul 13, 2022 • 24:50

153. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 8

153. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 8

On today’s episode of Momentum, Sharon talks about America’s push to eradicate communists during the Red Scare and Korean War. Many people working toward the goal of civil rights and liberties shared links to the Communist Party, like William Patterson and Paul Robeson. In 1951, Patterson submitted a 237-page petition to the United Nations, called We Charge Genocide. After Patterson and Robeson presented their petition, the U.S. retaliated by seizing their passports, smearing their publ

Jul 11, 2022 • 25:00

152. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 7

152. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 7

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon establishes the foundation of another man who played a pivotal role in Brown v. The Board of Education. Today, in 2022, the idea of someone serving as Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court with no previous experience working in the Judicial Branch of government, would be unheard of. And it would certainly be unheard of for a gubernatorial candidate to win both the Republican AND Democratic primaries

Jul 8, 2022 • 26:14

151. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 6

151. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 6

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon continues a riveting conversation with pulitzer-prize winning author, Gilbert King. We pick up with the involvement of J.Edgar Hoover and the case of The Groveland Four, including the political dance Thurgood Marshall did with Hoover to strategically move the Civil Rights movement forward. Often flying under the radar in history, Florida, for some years, was far worse than higher profile areas in the C

Jul 6, 2022 • 49:21

150. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 5

150. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 5

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon speaks with pulitzer-prize winning author, Gilbert King. It's Important for people to know that the popular narrative of the 1950s – depicted as a time full of sock hops, poodle skirts, and Rock & Roll – was not the lived experience of many Black Americans. In numerous ways, their experience was often worse than what people commonly think of, particularly in the South, including forms of debt slave

Jul 1, 2022 • 32:35

149. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 4

149. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 4

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon makes the connection between the desegregation of the United States military to the power or writing a letter. It can be hard to believe sometimes that writing a letter or contacting our representatives can make a difference, but that is exactly what one honorably discharged decorated Veteran did in 1948. The ripples of the letter written by Isaac Woodwards would contribute to a tidal wave in the Civil

Jun 29, 2022 • 23:20

148. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 3

148. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 3

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon guides us to a lawsuit years in the making, that shaped America. While some of the names tied with the milestone have been all but lost to history, you will hear many of those uncredited names mentioned in this episode, including McKinley Bernet, Vivian Marshall, and Lucinda Todd. The year was 1952 when Brown v. The Board of Education was argued before the Supreme Court by our friend, Thurgood Marshall

Jun 27, 2022 • 25:43

147. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 2

147. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 2

On today’s episode of our special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s, Sharon continues the story of young Thurgood Marshall as he travels to rural Tennessee on behalf of the NAACP and finds himself on the wrong side of trumped up charges and an angry mob. We also reconnect with George McLaurin and hear about Ada Fisher, two lifelong students who wanted equal opportunities in education and stood firm until they had a victorious Supreme Court ruling. Sharon also catches listeners

Jun 24, 2022 • 25:11

146. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 1

146. Momentum: The Ripples Made by Ordinary People, Part 1

Welcome to the first episode of our new special series, Momentum: Civil Rights in the 1950s. Today, Sharon introduces us to a few key people who became the driving force behind early Civil Rights activism. We meet a young man named Thuroughgood–a bit of a troublemaker who put his curiosity and sense of justice to work and sought incremental change through the legal system. Joining him in the fight against the longstanding legality of “separate but equal” was the McLaurin family. Togethe

Jun 22, 2022 • 29:13

The Immoral Choices of Rogues with Patrick Radden Keefe

The Immoral Choices of Rogues with Patrick Radden Keefe

In this episode, Sharon is joined by writer and author Patrick Radden Keefe, whose new book, Rogues, tells twelve stories of people with big personalities–the grifters, the rebels, the crooks, the crime families, and the people who don’t play by the rules. Patrick talks about how he researches his larger-than-life stories, and gives us a few teasers, like what it was like to interview a woman who is in the Witness Protection Program after testifying against her own brother, and how deep

Jun 20, 2022 • 42:30

Legislating at the State Level with Representative Jen Schultz

Legislating at the State Level with Representative Jen Schultz

In this episode, Sharon talks to Minnesota State Legislator Jen Schultz. Jen is currently running for Congress, and is also an educator who has taught economics at the University of Minnesota Duluth for about twenty years. Rep Schultz talks about the ins and outs of working in state government: how budgets are set as well as how bills are written, introduced, prioritized, and voted on. She touches topics like model legislation, which is when a state reviews bills that have passed in oth

Jun 17, 2022 • 42:22

The Power of Community, Micro Actions, and Boundaries with Jenna Kutcher

The Power of Community, Micro Actions, and Boundaries with Jenna Kutcher

In today’s episode, Jenna Kutcher sits down to talk with Sharon about the release of her first book, How Are You, Really?: Living Your Truth One Answer at a Time and how she wrote the manuscript in secret, doing it on her own terms. Jenna loved the refining process with her book, which saw it evolve from a business and marketing subject into a book that gets more personal, tackling topics like body image, loneliness, community, and personal intuition. Sharon and Jenna also touch on thei

Jun 15, 2022 • 43:07

Why We Love the Things We Love with Aaron Ahuvia

Why We Love the Things We Love with Aaron Ahuvia

In this episode, Sharon spends time speaking with Dr. Aaron Ahuvia, who is an expert on a specific kind of love: our love of things–things like places, objects, brands, and activities. The things we love tend to be part of our own identity: perhaps a part of our childhood, or something we spend a lot of time with. Aaron advocates for using our particular loves–poker, PEZ dispensers, sneakers, water sports–in leading us to others who share our common interests, and can be a catalyst in f

Jun 13, 2022 • 37:01

The History of Gerrymandering with Nick Seabrook

The History of Gerrymandering with Nick Seabrook

In this episode, Sharon chats with Professor Nick Seabrook, who has written a new book, One Person, One Voice, that details the long history of gerrymandering in the United States. While gerrymandering predates our country, Professor Seabrook argues that it’s a bigger problem today than it has been in the past because we have more sophisticated access to data and technology. This access has flipped the script, and politicians are choosing their voters instead of voters choosing their po

Jun 10, 2022 • 48:42

A Dream Twenty-Three Years in the Making with Tabitha Brown

A Dream Twenty-Three Years in the Making with Tabitha Brown

In this episode, Sharon sits down with America’s favorite mom, Tabitha Brown. Tabitha talks about how grateful she is that fame and opportunity came at a time in her life when she was ready for it: when she knew what she wanted, and was able to have the patience to do the things that make her feel good, and in turn, make all of us feel good. Together, Sharon and Tabitha talk about Tabitha’s many projects, from her daily TikTok videos, her new restaurant, Kale My Name, her children’s sho

Jun 8, 2022 • 34:44

The Importance of Preserving Democracy with Senator Mitt Romney

The Importance of Preserving Democracy with Senator Mitt Romney

In today’s episode, Sharon talks with one of listeners’ most-requested guests, Senator Mitt Romney. A current Senator of Utah, Romney has a long history of public service, and chats candidly with Sharon about his unique personal history with business and politics, as well as advice his father gave him when he was young. Senator Romney also shares some insight into how Senate members are placed on committees, his interest and work in foreign diplomacy, and what he feels U.S. citizens can

Jun 6, 2022 • 42:49

138. Respect is Contagious: Restorative Justice with Judge Victoria Pratt

138. Respect is Contagious: Restorative Justice with Judge Victoria Pratt

In this episode, Sharon has a conversation with Judge Victoria Pratt, who’s new book, The Power of Dignity, looks at the ways in which respect in the justice system needs to go both ways. She shares her belief that we have a moral and professional obligation to look our for our neighbors; the whole community benefits when everyone is living their lives to their best and fullest potential. In the courtroom, when people are treated with dignity and respect, it increases their trust in the

Jun 3, 2022 • 39:56

How to Ensure the Stories of our Lives Don’t Stink with Donald Miller

How to Ensure the Stories of our Lives Don’t Stink with Donald Miller

In this episode, Sharon talks with Donald Miller, entrepreneur, podcast host, and bestselling author, about the stories in our lives and how we live them. Our stories stink. When we fill our free time with passive consumption, we’re left with a narrative void that doesn’t enrich our lives. Donald’s new book, Hero On A Mission: A Path to a Meaningful Life, sets up readers to create meaning and nuance in the story of their lives. Sharon and Donald also talk about the two-party system in t

Jun 1, 2022 • 33:57

I Never Thought of It That Way with Mónica Guzmán

I Never Thought of It That Way with Mónica Guzmán

In this episode, Sharon talks with Mónica Guzmán, whose new book, I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times helps us learn how to get more comfortable with the uncomfortable. Monica argues that we need to chase “I never thought of it that way” moments we have in order to grow in curiosity. When we manufacture certainty, we tend to see people and the world around us as one-dimensional. It’s important to understand the views

May 30, 2022 • 46:56

The Powerful Value of Melancholy with Susan Cain

The Powerful Value of Melancholy with Susan Cain

In this episode, Sharon has a conversation with Susan Cain, the best-selling author of the international phenomenon Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. Susan’s new book, Bittersweet, is about the undervalued power of a melancholic view of the world. Susan talks about how melancholy and bittersweet emotions are connected to our sensitivity and our sense of transcendence, and this view of the world is often overlooked. Instead, we can be bound by the tyranny

May 27, 2022 • 39:54

The Lightness of Choosing Peace with Barb Schmidt

The Lightness of Choosing Peace with Barb Schmidt

In this episode, Sharon chats with Barb Schmidt, better known to her many social media followers as @peaceful_barb. Barb and Sharon talk about ways we can feel less overwhelmed by the news and negativity and be more confident with being ourselves (the world needs YOU, not a duplicate of someone else!) Barb also shares how she likes to combat repetitive negative thinking. There’s no use in wasting our precious, finite energy on negative things that, ultimately, aren’t going to help us li

May 25, 2022 • 42:10

Consume Smarter: Recognizing News Media Bias with Vanessa Otero

Consume Smarter: Recognizing News Media Bias with Vanessa Otero

In this episode, Sharon speaks with Vanessa Otero, the founder of Ad Fontes Media–the media company that is responsible for the dynamic Media Bias Chart. If you’ve follow Sharon on Instagram at @sharonsaysso, then you’ve seen her link to the Media Bias Chart many times. The conversation today centers around the importance of trust and reliability in the media. Ad Fontes analysts use the acronym RELI as news source benchmarks, which stands for reputation, evidence, likelihood, and incent

May 23, 2022 • 41:05

How to Reboot America with Will Hurd

How to Reboot America with Will Hurd

In this episode, Sharon talks with Will Hurd, a former CIA officer and member of Congress. Will recently released his book, American Reboot: An Idealist’s Guide to Getting Big Things Done. In it, he details some of the issues he’s seen up close and personal through his careers, and carries with him his mother’s advice: you’re either part of the problem or part of the solution. Will talks about what being part of the solution looks like: appealing to the middle, not to the edges, showing

May 20, 2022 • 41:34

131. Embrace Your Almost  with Jordan Lee Dooley

131. Embrace Your Almost with Jordan Lee Dooley

In this episode, Sharon and entrepreneur, author, and podcast host, Jordan Lee Dooley have a discussion about the lessons to learn in the almost spaces of our lives. For many of us, achievement of one goal leads us to feel like the finish line is always moving; we’re always reaching to complete the next goal. Jordan advocates for slowing down and redefining contentment, and to consider it active engagement in our lives no matter where we are in relation to our goals. We can find this ac

May 18, 2022 • 35:49

The Brain-Tingles of Narrative Non-Fiction with Candice Millard

The Brain-Tingles of Narrative Non-Fiction with Candice Millard

In this episode, Sharon speaks with best-selling author Candice Millard about the history she explores in her new book, River of the Gods. Candice is a writer of literary nonfiction, and uses storytelling as a way to connect readers to the narrative of history. Candice shares some brain-tingling facts with Sharon about the subjects of her books–Winston Churchill and Presidents Roosevelt and Garfield–before talking about her newest book that centers around the search for the source of th

May 16, 2022 • 40:49

An Impactful Career in Cold Cases with Paul Holes

An Impactful Career in Cold Cases with Paul Holes

Content Warning: This episode contains subject matter that is not suitable for children.In this episode, Sharon has a conversation with retired cold case investigator, Paul Holes, about the mental and emotional impact of working in a field of violent crime. Paul recounts some of his most memorable cases and why he chose to pursue a career in cold cases. We also get to hear about Paul’s friendship with the late Michelle McNamara, author of I’ll Be Gone in the Dark, and the investigation

May 13, 2022 • 48:48

Influence is Your Superpower with Zoe Chance

Influence is Your Superpower with Zoe Chance

In this episode, Sharon talks with Zoe Chance, author of Influence is Your Superpower and Yale professor (who teaches the most popular course at the university: Mastering Influence and Persuasion). Zoe argues that the goal of mastering the path of influence is personal development and becoming someone people want to say yes to. An effective influencer respects the freedom, autonomy, and humanity of others. The goal of influencing the behavior of others takes a more nuanced approach than

May 11, 2022 • 46:08

Connecticut: The Vital Something of Katharine Hepburn with Emily Ley

Connecticut: The Vital Something of Katharine Hepburn with Emily Ley

In today’s episode, Sharon and Simplified founder, Emily Ley, recount the life and quirks of Hollywood’s infamous Katharine Hepburn. Katharine, a self-described tomboy from the start, carried her strong-willed and independent nature with her to her acting, often imbuing her roles with  a “vital something” that attracted audiences. But she wasn’t without her critics–those who felt she was rude and lacked the more feminine traits of a starlet. Nevertheless, Hepburn was nominated for twelv

May 9, 2022 • 43:51

The Many Roles of Lady Bird Johnson with Julia Sweig

The Many Roles of Lady Bird Johnson with Julia Sweig

In today’s episode, Sharon talks with author Julia Sweig about her newest book, Lady Bird Johnson: Hiding in Plain Sight. The research and writing took Julia over six years, as she meticulously poured over the details of not only Lady Bird’s life, but also the 1960s era and the state of the nation at the time. Lady Bird, a whip-smart Southern woman, met Lindon Johnson in Austin, Texas where he proposed to her at the end of their first date (she said no!). Eventually, the pair married an

May 6, 2022 • 48:05

When Fixing the Problem Isn't the Answer with Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers

When Fixing the Problem Isn't the Answer with Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers

In this episode, Sharon reunites with the hosts of Pantsuit Politics, Sarah and Beth, to talk about their brand new book, Now What? How To Move Forward When We’re Divided (About Basically Everything). While we all want the next step to be solving conflict together, it’s not a realistic approach. Instead, think of asking “Now what?” as a catalyst for connecting with people in a more heartfelt way. The goal isn’t to fix other people, the goal is to strengthen our understanding about the c

May 4, 2022 • 41:32

Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots with Mary Marantz

Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots with Mary Marantz

In this episode, author Mary Marantz joins Sharon to talk about Mary’s new book, Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots. Together, Sharon and Mary touch on important topics like perseverance, education, and extending gentleness to each other and our own selves. Our egos want to keep us safe, but when we continuously operate from a place of safety, taking risks can feel too scary. Ultimately, slow growth equals strong roots means that, when a tipping point day comes in our lives, we have worked

May 2, 2022 • 40:23

The Many Meat Thermometers of Sharon's Kitchen with Kendra Adachi

The Many Meat Thermometers of Sharon's Kitchen with Kendra Adachi

In today’s episode, Sharon has a light-hearted conversation with her friend, Kendra Adachi, the genius behind The Lazy Genius books, podcast, and online collective. Kendra and Sharon first bonded over Kendra’s motto of “be genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t”, which can be applied to all areas of life–whether you’re in the kitchen or in the comments section of a political post. Kendra talks about the time she visited Sharon’s home with a film crew to

Apr 29, 2022 • 37:35

Arizona: The Navajo Code Talkers with Lindsay Sherbondy

Arizona: The Navajo Code Talkers with Lindsay Sherbondy

In today’s episode, Sharon is joined by artist, designer, and mom, Lindsay Sherbondy. Together, they talk about the Navajo Nation’s WWII Code Talkers. This elite group of men created and used a code used for relaying information between military units during World War II. The Navajo code is the only spoken military code never to have been deciphered, and the code talkers were instrumental in the victories of several battles during the war. They returned as unsung heroes because of the classified

Apr 27, 2022 • 37:31

Lessons to Save Your Life with Dr. Edith Eger and Dr. Marianne Engle

Lessons to Save Your Life with Dr. Edith Eger and Dr. Marianne Engle

In this episode, Sharon sits down with psychologist and best-selling author, Dr. Edith Eger and her daughter–who is also a psychologist–Dr. Marianne Engle. When Dr. Eger was a young girl, she was a talented gymnast who trained for the Olympic games but was instead imprisoned at Auschwitz. As a survivor, she has written beautiful books full of light and healing. Dr. Eger advocates that we don’t ask “Why me?” but rather, “What now?”, which is a question that promotes action and an opennes

Apr 25, 2022 • 43:17

Alaska and the Largest Earthquake Ever Recorded with Jeff Dauler

Alaska and the Largest Earthquake Ever Recorded with Jeff Dauler

In today’s episode, Sharon is joined by podcaster Jeff Dauler and the two sit down and talk about Alaska’s 1964 earthquake–the largest earthquake ever recorded. While scientists said that the quake made the earth “ring like a bell” and the shaking and subsequent landslides and tsunamis devastated many Alaskan towns and cities, it also led to modern geological insights about how the earth’s crust is understood. They also talk about the lead scientist–a pioneer in her field–who led the efforts to

Apr 22, 2022 • 36:33

A Prolific Public Media Career with Cathy Wurzer

A Prolific Public Media Career with Cathy Wurzer

In this episode, Sharon talks with Emmy-Award winning broadcast journalist Cathy Wurzer about the role of public media in the U.S. To start, Cathy shares how she got into broadcast journalism, and the joy she feels in connecting with her listeners. Cathy believes that the soul of public radio lies in its ability to reach and cater to communities; to be free to be quirky and not beholden to ratings. They also talk about the ways in which covering politics has evolved over the years, why

Apr 20, 2022 • 35:53

Alabama: The Barrier-Breaking Tuskegee Airmen with Emma Chapman

Alabama: The Barrier-Breaking Tuskegee Airmen with Emma Chapman

In today’s episode, Sharon welcomes guest Emma Chapman, one of the founders of A Beautiful Mess, to hear the story of Alabama’s infamous 99th Pursuit Squadron: the first Black military pilot unit trained at the Tuskegee Airfield in Alabama. The airmen broke racial barriers at home and excelled overseas during World War II, earning the name Red-Tails and becoming some of the most decorated wartime aviators in U.S. history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. To

Apr 18, 2022 • 39:12

Northern Mariana Islands: A Deep and Vast History with Sharon McMahon

Northern Mariana Islands: A Deep and Vast History with Sharon McMahon

In today’s episode, Sharon continues her tour of the U.S territories by talking about the history of the Northern Mariana Islands. This island territory is not well-known to mainland Americans–we don’t talk about them very often–so consider this your crash course! The Northern Mariana Islands are a submerged mountain chain in the Pacific Ocean near Guam. Learn the name the explorer Ferdinand Magellan gave to the island chain, and who it was ultimately named after, along with other facts

Apr 15, 2022 • 29:14

The Right: The Hundred Year War for American Conservatism with Matthew Continetti, Part 2

The Right: The Hundred Year War for American Conservatism with Matthew Continetti, Part 2

In the second part of a two-part conversation, Sharon continues her talk with journalist and author Matthew Continetti about the evolving history of conservatism over the past one hundred years. They pick up with some of the most important conservative thinkers in the second half of the 20th century, like founder of The National Review, William F. Buckley, the Austrian economist Friedrich Hayek, and American economist Milton Friedman. They also touch on the inner turmoil of the Democrat

Apr 13, 2022 • 45:11

The Right: The Hundred Year War for American Conservatism with Matthew Continetti, Part 1

The Right: The Hundred Year War for American Conservatism with Matthew Continetti, Part 1

In this episode, Sharon speaks with journalist and author Matthew Continetti about the evolving history of conservatism over the past one hundred years. Continetti has spent the past few years researching and writing about the American Right. History is the study of change, and Continetti’s book leads readers through the changing landscape of America as it has shaped conservative politics since 1920. Sharon and Matthew talk about Abraham Lincoln, the public embracement of Republican lea

Apr 11, 2022 • 42:56

U.S. Virgin Islands: Pirates, Rum, and a Steep Price Tag with Sharon McMahon

U.S. Virgin Islands: Pirates, Rum, and a Steep Price Tag with Sharon McMahon

In today’s solo episode, Sharon continues to talk about the territories of the U.S., this time focusing on the U.S. Virgin Islands. USVI spent many centuries as a colony of Denmark and a hot spot in the European trade routes. What prompted the U.S. to become interested in the acquisition of the islands? Sharon shares the reason… and the high price tag! You’ll also hear some fun facts about the islands, including the history of its famous rum and where you can find some of the best biolu

Apr 8, 2022 • 24:14

I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet with Shauna Niequist

I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet with Shauna Niequist

In this episode, Sharon sits down with author Shauna Niequist, who–along with her husband and young sons–moved from their suburban midwestern home to NYC. When her sons expressed discomfort and frustrations with learning a new way of living, Shauna set about softening their mindsets by writing “I guess I haven’t learned that yet” on a sticky note for the whole family to see. The mantra expanded, and Shauna realized that it pertained to both little life skills and larger life goals. When

Apr 6, 2022 • 42:24

Puerto Rico: The U.S. Territory Stuck in Statehood Limbo with Jeena Wilder

Puerto Rico: The U.S. Territory Stuck in Statehood Limbo with Jeena Wilder

In today’s episode, Jeena Wilder joins Sharon to hear about the history of Puerto Rico. Sharon walks listeners through how the U.S. acquired Puerto Rico through the Treaty of Paris, and how the island’s people are split on the issue of statehood. While many would like to see Puerto Rico become the 51st state of the U.S., others are hoping to see the island become its own independent nation. Sharon and Jeena also talk about Puerto Rico’s blue cobblestone streets, the many iguana species,

Apr 4, 2022 • 38:40

The Evolution of Independent Journalism with Emma Jade

The Evolution of Independent Journalism with Emma Jade

In today’s episode, Sharon talks with 7-time Emmy Award winning news anchor, Emma Jade, about the evolution of journalism and news in the age of social media. After working hard for a successful career in traditional television journalism, Emma realized that she wanted better balance between her work and family, which led her to explore new ways to communicate the news to others, specifically mothers. She created her own daily newscast from her home, Momcast, and now curates news on her

Apr 1, 2022 • 35:31

What About Bunny: The Power of Canine Communication with Alexis Devine

What About Bunny: The Power of Canine Communication with Alexis Devine

In today’s episode, Sharon speaks with Alexis Devine, human to Bunny, the sheepadoodle whose viral videos showing off her FluentPet communication skills delight viewers all over the world. Outside of memorizing over 100 English language words, Bunny often uses her word buttons to create conversation, putting thoughts together in surprising, delightful, and incredibly intelligent ways. Sharon asks Alexis about her process of working with Bunny (and her new puppy, Otter) to account for di

Mar 30, 2022 • 36:35

Guam: A Strategic War Island, a Twin Shipwreck, and a Pesky Snake with Adrienne Rolon

Guam: A Strategic War Island, a Twin Shipwreck, and a Pesky Snake with Adrienne Rolon

In today’s episode, Sharon tells the story of Guam’s history as a U.S. Territory to Adrienne Rolon, the owner of Hearts Content Events & Design. Adrienne’s six year old son, James, is a big fan of history, facts, and Sharon. Learn along with Adrienne and James as Sharon relays the significant history of Guam’s involvement in both the Spanish-American War and World War II. Sharon also shares plenty of brain-tingling facts about Guam’s long and varied history and the indigenous Chamor

Mar 28, 2022 • 38:52

108. How to Seek Truth and Find Freedom in Our Stories with Lisa Sharon Harper

108. How to Seek Truth and Find Freedom in Our Stories with Lisa Sharon Harper

In today’s episode, Sharon speaks with Lisa Sharon Harper, whose book, Fortune: How Race Broke My Family and the World–and How to Repair It All, is the result of thirty years of family history research. Lisa believes that there is a power in knowing your story and the story of your ancestors. Many African Americans face the challenge of gaps in their family history, origins obscured by enslavement histories. It’s when we know our stories and our truths that we can start to heal and release. Seek

Mar 25, 2022 • 40:11

American Samoa: The Southernmost U.S. Territory with Ashley Spivey

American Samoa: The Southernmost U.S. Territory with Ashley Spivey

In this episode, Sharon talks with social activist Ashley Spivey about how American Samoa became a U.S. territory. While we all grew up learning facts about states in our history and government classes, U.S. territories are often left out of the conversation. Sharon talks about how American Samoa became of interest to the U.S., and how the South Pacific Ocean archipelago is represented in government. Of course, no Sharon Says So episode would be complete without a few fun facts, and Sha

Mar 23, 2022 • 35:12

The Three Mothers Who Shaped a Nation with Anna Malaika Tubbs

The Three Mothers Who Shaped a Nation with Anna Malaika Tubbs

In today’s episode, Sharon chats with author and scholar Anna Makaika Tubbs about the mothers of three well-known Civil Rights activists, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Anna, influenced by the Black women in Hidden Figures, began researching Black mothers, a demographic that often goes unnoticed or even erased. Through their own stories, and through their love for their sons, the mothers of these three men significantly impacted their lives. Sharon and Anna discu

Mar 21, 2022 • 35:53

Washington DC: The Secret Illnesses of Presidents with Sharon McMahon

Washington DC: The Secret Illnesses of Presidents with Sharon McMahon

In today’s solo episode, Sharon dives into a topic the American public has long been interested in: the illnesses of past presidents. Sharon gives details about the secretive ways three of our former presidents–Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson, and Franklin D. Roosevelt–kept the people in the dark about their surgeries and sicknesses. She talks about how presidential health was often tied to the nation’s health and success, and how that ultimately shifted during the Eisenhower Administr

Mar 18, 2022 • 31:13

The Art of Insubordination with Todd Kashdan

The Art of Insubordination with Todd Kashdan

In today’s episode, Sharon speaks with psychologist, Dr. Todd Kashdan, about the ways in which insubordination can be an effective and valuable way to make the change you want to see in the world. Effective dissent looks like encouragement and collaboration for the good of many. Change does not always happen as an immediate result from going against the status quo, but it does open up others to the idea that there is more than one way to do something. It is healthy to welcome dissent in

Mar 16, 2022 • 43:03

103. Wyoming: The Grit and Tenacity of Nellie Tayloe Ross with Natalie Hodson

103. Wyoming: The Grit and Tenacity of Nellie Tayloe Ross with Natalie Hodson

In this episode, Sharon and former Idaho fishing state record-holder Natalie Hodson sit down together to talk about Wyoming’s first female governor, Nellie Tayloe Ross. Nellie was the kind of person who was born to break barriers, and when her husband died in office, Nellie ran in a special election to take his place as governor of the state of Wyoming, becoming the first woman governor in the nation. But it was just the beginning of her long political career as Nellie moved her way east to Wash

Mar 14, 2022 • 38:13

Why We Deserve a Fair Criminal Justice System with Jason Flom

Why We Deserve a Fair Criminal Justice System with Jason Flom

In this episode, Sharon hears from Jason Flom, a successful record label executive who followed his passion into working for criminal justice reform. After reading about a young man’s conviction where the crime did not fit the punishment, Flom rolled up his sleeves and began working to help overturn wrongful convictions and change criminal justice policies and practices through the Innocence Project. He is a founding board member and deeply committed to the mission of the project. Jason

Mar 11, 2022 • 44:14

Wisconsin’s Master Architect with Sharon McMahon

Wisconsin’s Master Architect with Sharon McMahon

In today’s episode, Sharon dives beyond the basics to talk about the life and career of a man with whom you may already be familiar: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright’s legendary career spanned seventy years but his personal life is just as often talked about as his revolutionary building style. Learn a little more about his eccentricities, his love of fancy, expensive things, his scandalous romances, and even a word we use regularly today that didn’t exist before Frank made it up. Hosted on A

Mar 9, 2022 • 33:02

Your On-Ramp to Cryptocurrency with Brit Morin

Your On-Ramp to Cryptocurrency with Brit Morin

In this episode, Sharon gets the scoop on the emerging space of cryptocurrency from well-known entrepreneur and venture capitalist, Brit Morin. Brit is an expert who founded BFF, an open-access community where women and nonbinary people can connect, exchange ideas, and grow their knowledge in crypto. Blockchain, Bitcoin, NFT, web3… if these terms leave you feeling a little uncertain, consider this your easy on-ramp of understanding. This episode is full of amazing 90s analogies which Br

Mar 7, 2022 • 50:14

West Virginia: Proving that Timing is Everything with Annie F. Downs

West Virginia: Proving that Timing is Everything with Annie F. Downs

In this episode, Sharon shares the story of how West Virginia broke away from the state of Virginia with author and speaker Annie F. Downs. Unhappy with their representation in state legislature, the Appalachian communities in the Northwestern part of Virginia took advantage of Virginia’s secession during the Civil War to apply for their own statehood. Sharon and Annie talk about what makes West Virginia unique in its geography, culture, and history and why it has been sued multiple tim

Mar 4, 2022 • 41:35

Bridging the Divide with Representatives Phillips (D) and Fitzpatrick (R)

Bridging the Divide with Representatives Phillips (D) and Fitzpatrick (R)

During this episode, you’ll join Sharon as she sits down with two members of the US Congress: Representatives Dean Phillips and Brian Fitzpatrick. Phillips is a Democrat from Minnesota and Fitzpatrick is a Republican from Pennsylvania. Together, they have used their time in congress to work across the aisle, serving on the Problem Solvers Caucus and promoting bipartisan collaboration. Listening to understand, especially when holding a government office, isn’t just a nicety, it can be a

Mar 2, 2022 • 53:18

Washington in Flight: The Boeing Aerospace Legacy with Carolyn LePine

Washington in Flight: The Boeing Aerospace Legacy with Carolyn LePine

In this episode, Sharon’s sister Caroyln joins her to hear a bit about the history of flight and the Boeing family. While German immigrant Wilhelm Boeing made his fortune in natural resources like timber and iron ore, his son, William, is best known for–you guessed it–taking the fledgling field of aviation to new heights. Learn about what prompted William to build his first seaplane, how both World Wars impacted the growth of the Boeing Airplane Company, and why Boeing eventually retire

Feb 28, 2022 • 48:36

Raising Critical Thinkers with Julie Bogart

Raising Critical Thinkers with Julie Bogart

In this episode, Sharon chats with Julie Bogart, creator of the award-winning Brave Writer program. Sharon and Julie talk about the benefits of leaving behind our information safety nets–the communities that only reinforce our own opinions–to explore information in new and open ways. Julie emphasizes that the best way to understand and care about each other is to be open to, and become fascinated with, different viewpoints. Being a critical thinker, and raising critical thinkers, does n

Feb 25, 2022 • 46:52

95. Virginia: The Women Who Did The Next Needed Thing with Sharon McMahon

95. Virginia: The Women Who Did The Next Needed Thing with Sharon McMahon

In this solo state episode, Sharon returns us to a tumultuous time in US history: Reconstruction. After the Civil War, rebuilding the country was a messy task, but Black Americans knew that creating educational opportunities for their children was highly important. What started in rural Virginia as the success of one teacher–Virginia Randolph–who put love, care, and oftentimes her own salary into her one-room school, grew into an unstoppable educational evolution for Black students. Lea

Feb 23, 2022 • 33:17

Two Midwesterners Record a Podcast Episode with Charlie Berens

Two Midwesterners Record a Podcast Episode with Charlie Berens

To kick off the week, Sharon sits down to chat with comedian and fellow Midwesterner, Charlie Berens. Charlie talks about how he doubled down on his Midwestern character after realizing just how different he sounded to people when he traveled outside of the Midwest. He channels his dad and his grandfather in his comedy, turning on that gruff but unfailingly polite Wisconsinite personality. Sharon and Charlie compare their Midwestern upbringings, laughing together about what it really me

Feb 21, 2022 • 32:03

Vermont’s Spitting Lyon with Chrissy Lawler

Vermont’s Spitting Lyon with Chrissy Lawler

In this episode, Chrissy Lawler of The Peaceful Sleeper, joins Sharon to hear the story of Matthew Lyon, one of Vermont’s most eclectic historical figures. Lyon, a “redemptioner” from Dublin, made a name for himself as a fierce Democratic-Republican when he got into not one–but two–scuffles with a congress member of the opposing party… during an active House session. His story gets more bizarre from there, as he became the only person to be elected to Congress while in jail. Follow alon

Feb 18, 2022 • 41:05

Creating Change Through Radical Optimism with Dr. Paul Zeitz

Creating Change Through Radical Optimism with Dr. Paul Zeitz

In this episode, Sharon talks with Dr. Paul Zeitz, author of Waging Optimism, about how to identify our complacency and make a move toward impacting the world around us. Together, the pair discusses how optimism leads to courage, and how courage leads to action. Oftentimes, making change requires experimentation; Plan A doesn’t always work out, so it’s good to have more than one Plan B in place. While it can be easy to feel discouraged that our actions don’t lead to revolutionary change

Feb 16, 2022 • 37:17

Utah: The Magic of the Osmonds with Sharon McMahon

Utah: The Magic of the Osmonds with Sharon McMahon

In this solo state episode, Sharon takes us back to the 1970s to follow the rise of two of the most iconic names in showbiz… Donny and Marie Osmond. Follow along as we learn about the siblings’ long history in entertainment, from five year old Donny’s first appearance on the Andy Williams Show to Marie’s number one country hit at the tender age of thirteen. The brother and sister pair have spent their entire lives in the public eye, but have risen to the challenges of the business with

Feb 14, 2022 • 30:55

The Importance of Hometown Change Makers with Michael Tubbs

The Importance of Hometown Change Makers with Michael Tubbs

In this episode, Sharon sits down to speak with Michael Tubbs, who was the youngest mayor to serve in an American city at age 26. Tubbs served as the mayor of his hometown of Stockton, CA. On a fast-track from Stanford University to the White House, Tubbs decided instead to return home, walking from door-to-door to campaign for a seat on city council and, ultimately, mayor. Sharon and Michael talk about what learning outside the box looks like, and how local politics is an ideal vehicle

Feb 11, 2022 • 29:03

Texas: The Original Goal-Getter with Ashley Rose Reeves

Texas: The Original Goal-Getter with Ashley Rose Reeves

In this episode, Ashley Rose Reeves joins Sharon to hear the story of one of Texas’s most iconic business owners: Mary Kay Ash. Tired of being passed up for raises and promotions to her male colleagues in the 1960s, Mary Kay drew up her own business plan, armed with enthusiasm, charm, hard work, and five thousand dollars. By the early 90s, Mary Kay Cosmetics made over a billion dollars annually and became the largest direct seller of skin-care products in the United States. Learn about

Feb 9, 2022 • 41:08

How to Teach Our Children Emotional Resilience with Dr. Becky Kennedy

How to Teach Our Children Emotional Resilience with Dr. Becky Kennedy

In this episode, Sharon talks with Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist who was recently named “The Millennial Parenting Whisperer” by TIME Magazine. Dr. Becky and Sharon have a conversation about communicating the tough topics with our kids; how and when to share current event news so they feel safe. Dr. Becky argues that it’s not always the information that feels scary and off-putting, but the act of having to process it alone. As parents, it's our responsibility to support our

Feb 7, 2022 • 44:26

Tennessee’s Incorrigible Andrew Jackson with Richard Lim

Tennessee’s Incorrigible Andrew Jackson with Richard Lim

In this episode, Sharon is joined by This American President Podcast host Richard Lim. Together they “nerd out” on facts about an under-the-radar president who was more influential than he’s often given credit for: Andrew Jackson. Listen in as they swap their favorite facts about his blasphemous parrot, Poll, his early capture as a prisoner of war, his propensity for dueling, and even how his opposition to the electoral college shaped the future of federal politics. Andrew Jackson was v

Feb 4, 2022 • 40:20

The Power of Storytelling in Politics with Richard Fowler

The Power of Storytelling in Politics with Richard Fowler

In this episode, Sharon is joined by FOX News and Forbes contributor, Richard Fowler, to talk about storytelling and how it shapes American politics. Richard shares how and why storytelling plays a powerful role in our democracy; people will not always remember the policy, but they will always remember the story attached to it. As well, Sharon and Richard explore how storytelling helps humanize others, enabling us to see them as an individual instead placing them in a collective categor

Feb 2, 2022 • 39:28

Mt. Rushmore: The Good, The Bad, and the Dynamite with Kelli France

Mt. Rushmore: The Good, The Bad, and the Dynamite with Kelli France

In this episode, Sharon and guest Kelli France talk about the not-so-stellar history of the construction of Mt. Rushmore in the Black Hills of South Dakota. A sacred place to the Lakota, Tunkasila Sakpe Paha, or Six Grandfathers Mountain, was transformed in the 1920s and 30s into what we know as Mt. Rushmore. The mountain’s complicated history includes broken treaties, a white supremacist sculptor, 14 years of construction, scads of dynamite, and the 60-foot tall faces of Presidents Was

Jan 31, 2022 • 37:25

The Popularity of True Crime with Kate Winkler Dawson

The Popularity of True Crime with Kate Winkler Dawson

In today's episode, Sharon sits down with author and podcast host, Kate Winkler Dawson, to discuss the ways in which we talk about and consume true crime. Kate and Sharon ruminate on why the true crime genre is especially appealing to women, and how Kate feels a responsibility to the women in true crime; they are often the victims we leave behind in order to follow the movements of men who make up the majority of the perpetrators and the investigators. Join the conversation to learn mor

Jan 28, 2022 • 44:20

South Carolina’s Islands of History, Mystery, and Monkeys with Sharon McMahon

South Carolina’s Islands of History, Mystery, and Monkeys with Sharon McMahon

In today’s solo episode, Sharon dives into some of the unique stories of South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands. The Sea Islands in South Carolina populate the coastal Lowcountry region and are rich in history, natural beauty and… monkeys. Join in as Sharon takes us on a tour, telling tales of famous authors, big sea battles, a mid-century Coney Island of the South, the culture of the Gullah, and Morgan Island’s colony of four thousand Rhesus monkeys. (No, you’re not allowed to pet

Jan 26, 2022 • 23:15

How to Have the Messy Conversations with Carlos Whittaker

How to Have the Messy Conversations with Carlos Whittaker

In this episode, author and speaker Carlos Whittaker joins Sharon once again to discuss everything from 150 year old log houses to how Gen Z will be the generation to break our serious reliance on life-as-performance on social media. The iconic duo swaps thoughts on chickens, Nirvana album art, and more serious topics like fear of the unknown, critical race theory, and the messiness of history. How do we reconcile our greatest national heroes and achievements with the idea that many peo

Jan 24, 2022 • 37:05

Rhode Island: The Bravest Woman in America with Taylor Wolfe

Rhode Island: The Bravest Woman in America with Taylor Wolfe

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Taylor Wolfe, comedian and lover of wigs, to talk about Rhode Island’s most famous lighthouse keeper, Ida Lewis. A strong swimmer and rower, even as a petite woman, Idawalley Zoradia Lewis faithfully kept the lamp lit at Lime Rock Light Station and rescued as many as 36 people from drowning during her lifetime. These feats of heroism catapulted her to nationwide fame in the mid-1800s and even led to a visit from President Ulysses S. Grant. Ida was

Jan 21, 2022 • 44:58

The Power of Fun and How to Have More of It with Catherine Price

The Power of Fun and How to Have More of It with Catherine Price

In this episode, Sharon is joined by author Catherine Price, whose new book, The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again explores the concept of fun and why it’s a necessary part of the human experience. Catherine set out to pinpoint the definition of “fun” and she found that universally fun experiences meet three criteria: playfulness, connection, and flow. Catherine explains why play is so much easier when we’re children, and how passive “fun” like scrolling through social media, is not

Jan 19, 2022 • 50:02

Pennsylvania: The Sweet History of Hershey with Sharon McMahon

Pennsylvania: The Sweet History of Hershey with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon sets her sights on the sweet life of Milton S. Hershey and his innovation in the world of chocolate. Today, the Hershey Company produces over a billion pounds of chocolate each year, but its origins are much more humble. Milton Hershey, armed with only four years of elementary education, spent decades learning and honing his chocolate-making craft. His hard work and business acumen led to the company’s rapid success, as well as the growth of an entire town a

Jan 17, 2022 • 27:04

The Enduring Legacy of JFK with Fredrik Logevall

The Enduring Legacy of JFK with Fredrik Logevall

In this episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Harvard historian Fredrik Logevall joins Sharon to discuss the life and career of the 35th President, John F. Kennedy. Professor Logevall shares expertise and research from his latest book, JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, which captures the glamor and beauty of the Kennedy family, as well as the moments of hesitation and darkness. Kennedy struggled with health issues for much of his life, but did not let it deter him from pu

Jan 14, 2022 • 46:10

The Oregon Trail from Westward Expansion to Computer Game with Sharon McMahon

The Oregon Trail from Westward Expansion to Computer Game with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon dives into some of the myths vs. facts about Manifest Destiny and the Oregon Trail. What did it really look like, in the mid-1800s, for a family to travel the trail from Independence, Missouri to the beautiful Willamette Valley region of Oregon? All-in-all, about 400,000 people traveled along the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800s, hoping to move from crowded Eastern communities to work the riches of the land out West. Much of what we know was probably gleaned fr

Jan 12, 2022 • 32:19

Kayaking the Amazon from Source to Sea with Darcy Gaechter

Kayaking the Amazon from Source to Sea with Darcy Gaechter

In this episode, Darcy Gaechter joins Sharon to talk about her incredible whitewater kayaking expeditions. Darcy is the first (and only!) woman who has kayaked the Amazon River from its source to the sea. The journey took 148 days and had plenty of misadventures alongside all of the adventure. Darcy lives in Ecuador and runs a kayak tour business, helping others achieve their dreams of whitewater kayaking along the country’s beautiful, winding rivers. Listen in as Darcy shares how her a

Jan 10, 2022 • 43:44

Oklahoma: The American Frontier and its Legendary Musical with Sharon McMahon

Oklahoma: The American Frontier and its Legendary Musical with Sharon McMahon

Sharon returns for a solo episode about the musical that opened the floodgates to the nation’s obsession with Broadway. Oklahoma!, the infamous Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, opened on a Broadway stage in the spring of 1943. It was wildly successful from the get-go, and it ushered in the golden age of musical theater. Listen while Sharon explains why Oklahoma! hit such a nostalgic chord with audiences who longed for the simple joys of homesteading on the American Frontier. You’ll also

Jan 7, 2022 • 24:48

Choosing Hope and Humor with Kristina Kuzmic

Choosing Hope and Humor with Kristina Kuzmic

In this episode, Sharon has a conversation with Kristina Kuzmic, whose viral videos you’ve definitely seen in your Facebook feed or YouTube recommendations! Kristina gets candid about her childhood with Sharon, talking about the survivor’s guilt she felt as a teenager who immigrated to the US from war-torn Croatia in the 1990s. When Kristina was at her lowest–a broke, single mom to two young children–she began cooking dinners for friends and strangers, choosing to put her energy into th

Jan 5, 2022 • 45:58

Ohio: The Bellwether State of Presidents with Dr. Lauren Pinkston

Ohio: The Bellwether State of Presidents with Dr. Lauren Pinkston

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Lauren Pinkston, Executive Director for Kindred Exchange, to share some good old-fashioned Ohio facts. Join the duo as they discuss why Ohio has long been dubbed “The Bellwether State” and why that title may be in jeopardy. What exactly is a “bellwether” and why do political pundits claim it has been unrung? Ohio has a fascinating geographical settlement history that has shaped the way the state’s demographics have participated in national poli

Jan 3, 2022 • 38:00

Investigative Journalism in the Digital Age with Emily Kassie

Investigative Journalism in the Digital Age with Emily Kassie

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Emily Kassie, an Emmy and Peabody nominated investigative journalist and filmmaker, to discuss the highly contentious U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan after 20 years. During her career, Emily has covered conflict, abuse, and fracture points in the U.S and internationally for PBS Newshour, the New York Times, Netflix, Frontline, Time, the Guardian, and more. In 2021, she traveled to Afghanistan and smuggled into Taliban territory with fellow PBS NewsH

Dec 31, 2021 • 40:24

North Dakota: The Wunnerful Lawrence Welk with Sharon McMahon

North Dakota: The Wunnerful Lawrence Welk with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon shares the prolific life and career of vintage musical icon Lawrence Welk. Welk, a household name, and host of his own show (that you probably only watched at your grandma’s house), was one of the wealthiest entertainers in the U.S before his death in the early 1990s. He came from humble beginnings, growing up on a farm in North Dakota with his German immigrant parents and several siblings. Over the course of his long musical career, Welk became the sound of

Dec 29, 2021 • 34:34

Until I Am Free with Dr. Keisha N. Blain

Until I Am Free with Dr. Keisha N. Blain

In this episode, Dr. Keisha Blain joins Sharon to talk about voting rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer. In her new book, Until I Am Free, Dr. Blain chronicles the life of Fannie Lou Hamer, a change-maker who has been set on the back shelf of history. Fannie Lou gave a powerful speech at the Democratic National Convention in 1964 at a time when Black voter suppression and violence against Black Americans was practiced across the country, especially in the South. Learn about how the Civil R

Dec 27, 2021 • 41:08

North Carolina: How Quakers Shaped the State with Lee Ann Miller

North Carolina: How Quakers Shaped the State with Lee Ann Miller

In this episode, Lee Ann Miller joins Sharon to hear the connection between Edward R. Murrow, famous American Broadcast Journalist, and a North Carolina Quaker community that organized and ran a large portion of the Underground Railroad. Listen in as Sharon gives details about Quakers and the ways in which they shaped American history dating all the way back to the 1600s. By the 1850s, in Jamestown, North Carolina, Quakers were actively working for the abolition of slavery, which includ

Dec 22, 2021 • 38:59

Changing the Healthy Eating Conversation with Jennifer Anderson

Changing the Healthy Eating Conversation with Jennifer Anderson

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Jennifer Anderson, a registered dietitian and the founder of Kids Eat In Color, to talk about public health and nutrition misinformation. Jennifer advocates for moving away from fear-based messaging around food and consumption habits in order to help develop a perspective of curiosity and open-mindedness. She also shares with Sharon her tips on how to know when an information source is using emotional manipulation to promote health products or spec

Dec 20, 2021 • 40:19

New York: The Schuyler Family Connection with Sharon McMahon

New York: The Schuyler Family Connection with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon dives into the history of one of New York’s most prominent families during the birth of the nation: the Schuylers. Certainly, Hamilton has made famous the Schuyler sisters, but did you know that Angelica, Eliza, and Peggy were just three of the fifteen children born to Philip and Catherine Schuyler? Follow along as Sharon unfurls the Schuyler family tree and shares stories of a foiled kidnapping and the family's surprising connection to the Statue of Liberty

Dec 17, 2021 • 25:22

Alaska's Active Volcanoes with Dr. Michelle Coombs

Alaska's Active Volcanoes with Dr. Michelle Coombs

In this episode, Sharon chats with Dr. Michelle Coombs, the Scientist-in-Charge of the U.S. Geological Survey's Alaska Volcano Observatory. Michelle shares volcano facts with Sharon, and talks about the active volcanoes in Alaska and how volcano scientists track them to mitigate fly hazards and keep people safe from ash clouds. Together, they discuss the different types of volcanoes and how scientists and geologists work to piece together the mysteries of the earth around us and its fas

Dec 15, 2021 • 35:57

New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment with Austin Graff

New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment with Austin Graff

In this episode, Sharon tells Austin Graff fascinating stories about New Mexico and its 60-year journey in becoming a U.S state. New Mexico - or the land of enchantment, as some call it - is home to ancient cultures and breathtaking landscapes. The region has been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years and some of the artifacts found in New Mexico date back to the time of the Egyptian pyramids. Unfortunately, due to prejudice against Indigenous and Hispanic people, Congress was hes

Dec 13, 2021 • 36:40

How Millennials Can Move the Political Needle with Charlotte Alter

How Millennials Can Move the Political Needle with Charlotte Alter

In this episode, Sharon is joined by TIME correspondent, Charlotte Alter, to discuss millennials in politics. Charlotte shares her thoughts about how the unique political climate of the past 20 years--as millennials hit young adulthood--has affected the way they view government, politics, and social issues. Together, Sharon and Charlotte tackle the reasons why it’s been difficult for millennials to carve out their own political paths, and share ways in which they can turn over political

Dec 10, 2021 • 33:24

New Jersey’s Dinosaur: The Hadrosaurus foulkii

New Jersey’s Dinosaur: The Hadrosaurus foulkii

In this episode, Sharon shares the fascinating story behind New Jersey’s Hadrosaurus foulkii, the first full dinosaur skeleton to be discovered anywhere in the world. The skeleton was unearthed in 1858 when naturalist William Parker Foulke was vacationing in Haddonfield, New Jersey. At the time, very few people had heard the term “dinosaur” but Foulke and his comrade, paleontologist Joseph Leidy, spent the next few years uncovering, researching, and sharing the two-story tall “Bulky Liz

Dec 8, 2021 • 24:45

Turning $24 into a Multi-Million Dollar Business with Nicole Walters

Turning $24 into a Multi-Million Dollar Business with Nicole Walters

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Nicole Walters to talk about Nicole’s incredible journey of becoming a successful entrepreneur and television star. Nicole shares how she built a mulit-million dollar business after having only $24 in her bank account. As well, Sharon and Nicole talk about the importance of humility, learning new things and expressing empathy when hearing others’ perspectives. In this lively episode, join Sharon and Nicole as they chat like old friends while also s

Dec 6, 2021 • 40:28

New Hampshire: From School Room to Space Shuttle with Dani Coke

New Hampshire: From School Room to Space Shuttle with Dani Coke

In this episode, Sharon sits down with return guest Danielle Coke to learn about the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster of 1986. This history lesson is cast from the perspective of one of America’s most cherished ordinary heroes, Sharon Christa McAuliffe, a school teacher from New Hampshire who was selected by NASA to become the first teacher in space. In 1984 President Ronal Reagan announced the Teacher in Space Project designed to inspire students, honor teachers, and spur interest in

Dec 3, 2021 • 43:30

60. Sharon Answers Your Questions #3

60. Sharon Answers Your Questions #3

Back by popular demand: Sharon Answers Your Questions! This episode will feature Sharon answering listeners' questions with the facts. The topics of this episode include electoral votes and why Washington DC has three, State Pledges in school, the Antiquities Act, plus the story behind the ratification of the 27th Amendment. These episodes are fueled by YOU. What are you curious about? Drop a voice memo here, and Sharon might answer your question on the next episode of Sharon Answers Yo

Dec 1, 2021 • 35:19

Your Mind is an Amazing Place with Dr. Mark Solms

Your Mind is an Amazing Place with Dr. Mark Solms

In this episode, Sharon is joined by neuropsychologist, Dr. Mark Solms, to discuss some seriously brain-tingling facts. Dr. Solms has been studying human consciousness for decades, and in his newest book “The Hidden Spring,” he explains that human consciousness is defined by feelings, not intelligence. Sharon and Dr. Solms discuss why we may (or may not) hear a little voice in our heads as well as the importance of dreams and what they tell us about human consciousness. Ever wonder what

Nov 29, 2021 • 54:09

Nevada: The Wild Rise of Sin City with Sharon McMahon

Nevada: The Wild Rise of Sin City with Sharon McMahon

In this episode, Sharon walks through the last two centuries of history in Las Vegas to uncover the making of America’s “Sin City.” The Las Vegas strip has not always been glitz and glamour and its history is marked by brushes with Spanish settlers, the mafia, wall street millionaires, the Mormon Church, and most of all, the U.S. government. Tracing back to the 1820s, Sharon explores how Las Vegas developed from illegal speakeasies during prohibition to modern mega-resorts that attract

Nov 24, 2021 • 28:56

Making Room for Women in National Security with Lindsay Rodman

Making Room for Women in National Security with Lindsay Rodman

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Lindsay Rodman, Executive Director of The Leadership Council for Women in National Security, to discuss her diplomatic career in military service and national security. Lindsay Rodman is a Harvard Law School graduate and a United States Marine Corps veteran whose career in national security is distinguished by service in the military, White House, Pentagon, and more. Lindsay and Sharon discuss misconceptions of national security, cyber threats face

Nov 22, 2021 • 48:54

Nebraska: The World Needs More of Mildred Brown with Brittany Ratelle

Nebraska: The World Needs More of Mildred Brown with Brittany Ratelle

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Brittany Ratelle to talk about the life and legacy of Mildred Brown. Though Mildred is not in most history books, she should be! Mildred was a savvy businesswoman and the owner of an Omaha newspaper in the 1930s. As a Black woman in the 1930s, this was impressive on its own. However, Mildred used her power of the press to positively reinforce good business practices in Omaha, and she highlighted the good works of the people in her community. Mildred

Nov 19, 2021 • 35:59

From White House to War Zone with NYT Correspondent Peter Baker

From White House to War Zone with NYT Correspondent Peter Baker

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Chief White House Correspondent of the New York Times, Peter Baker. From the White House to Afghanistan to Moscow, Peter has travelled the world to cover the world’s most pressing issues. Sharon and Peter dive into what it’s like to report on U.S. Presidents, and Peter shares his experiences as the first newspaper reporter to enter Afghanistan immediately following the 9/11 attacks. Peter and Sharon also discuss Peter’s latest book, The Man Who Ran W

Nov 17, 2021 • 48:05

Montana: The Unlikely Fort Shaw Basketball Champions with Sharon McMahon

Montana: The Unlikely Fort Shaw Basketball Champions with Sharon McMahon

Sharon shares a story only the buffest of history buffs will know about Montana in this solo episode. In the early 1900s, Indigenous children were taken from their families to attend residential schools where they were assimilated into European culture - cutting their hair, learning new languages, and wearing European clothes. However, they wanted the women to get just enough physical activity at the Fort Shaw school, so they started a basketball program. The program exploded and became

Nov 15, 2021 • 28:34

When Failure Opens New Doors with Jasmine Star

When Failure Opens New Doors with Jasmine Star

In this episode, Sharon is joined by business strategist, Jasmine Star, to discuss how we can succeed even if we feel unqualified. Sharon and Jasmine share ways to achieve your dreams and accomplish your goals - and it has nothing to do with being the smartest, richest or most qualified in the room. Jasmine explains that sometimes the key to success is failure, and that always being the smartest in the room isn’t very wise. Join Sharon and Jasmine as they encourage you to let go of fear

Nov 12, 2021 • 40:54

Missouri: The Little House Like You’ve Never Heard with Natalie Franke

Missouri: The Little House Like You’ve Never Heard with Natalie Franke

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Natalie Franke, founder of the Rising Tide Society and author of the new book Built to Belong, to learn about Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House children's book series. Chronicling the life of a pioneer family living on the prairies in the Midwest during the great westward expansion, the Little House series is a children’s book collection that was later adapted into a popular television series and was first published in 1932. It is estimated that th

Nov 10, 2021 • 44:44

The DNA of America with David Rubenstein

The DNA of America with David Rubenstein

In this episode, Sharon is joined by David Rubenstein, successful businessman, philanthropist and lover of American history. Sharon and David discuss the core beliefs that make up America’s DNA as mentioned in David’s most recent book “The American Experiment.” David shares tips for becoming a better leader and reminds us of the importance of giving back to our communities. As well, David explains how he acquired multiple original copies of some of the most famous historical documents i

Nov 8, 2021 • 43:27

50. Mississippi: Medgar Evers and the Civil Rights Movement

50. Mississippi: Medgar Evers and the Civil Rights Movement

In this solo episode, Sharon tells the courageous story of Mississippi native Medgar Evers. Medgar was a well-known and well-liked man who was involved in many organizations throughout his time in college, and following this, he became involved in the NAACP and the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s. He never wanted to be in the public eye, but he saw a job that needed to be done. He was gaining momentum in the movement when he was tragically assassinated by a man who did not want the c

Nov 5, 2021 • 30:08

No Cure for Being Human with Kate Bowler

No Cure for Being Human with Kate Bowler

In this episode, Sharon is joined by bestselling author, Kate Bowler. At the age of 35, Kate was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. Tired of relentlessly positive mantras and advice on how to live her “best life now,” Kate questioned how to grapple with her grim diagnosis in a culture that believes everything is fixable. Kate explains the idea of toxic positivity and why so many Americans practice it. As well, she shares the key to living a courageous life... and it has nothing to do

Nov 3, 2021 • 32:42

Minnesota: The Exclave with Raphi Nussbaum

Minnesota: The Exclave with Raphi Nussbaum

In this episode, Sharon speaks with Raphi Nussbaum about Angle Inlet, Minnesota, a tiny community in North America’s Lake of the Woods. Angle Inlet is an exclave of American Territory that is entirely surrounded by water, Ontario, and Manitoba. Nestled in the Lake of the Woods, Angle Inlet is home to approximately 120 residents among 35 households. The exclave houses the last operating one-room schoolhouse in America, a post office, a customs office, and a humble cafe. Listen to learn m

Nov 1, 2021 • 51:29

The Woman They Could Not Silence with Kate Moore

The Woman They Could Not Silence with Kate Moore

In this episode, Sharon interviews author Kate Moore about her latest book, The Woman They Could Not Silence. Kate and Sharon uncover the shocking details of the life of Elizabeth Packard who was admitted to an insane asylum by her husband for simply disagreeing with him. Elizabeth not only witnessed many horrors in the asylum, but she also realized many other women were admitted by their husbands without any evidence of insanity. The craziest part? In 19th-century Illinois, this was co

Oct 29, 2021 • 38:51

Michigan: Exploring the Magic of Michigan with Sharon McMahon

Michigan: Exploring the Magic of Michigan with Sharon McMahon

In this episode, Sharon explores the rich ecosystem of the state of Michigan. Known as the “Great Lakes State” Michigan is comprised of two peninsulas that are separated by the Straits of Mackinac, called the Lower Peninsula, and the Upper Peninsula (UP). Known for its fresh water and natural beauty, the state of Michigan is home to many of the nation’s most beautiful parks, animals, coastlines, and lakes. Join Sharon to learn more about how Moose and Wolves cohabitate in Northern Michi

Oct 27, 2021 • 40:27

Building Connection Through Creativity with Morgan Harper Nichols

Building Connection Through Creativity with Morgan Harper Nichols

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Morgan Harper Nichols, the ultimate creator. Known for her art, words, and music, Sharon describes Morgan as a must-follow on Instagram for inspiration. Morgan grew up in a very creative family and started creating when she was young and loved sharing her work with others. Growing up in the internet age, Morgan was in front of social media from the beginning and discusses the importance of sharing positivity, factually correct information, and taki

Oct 25, 2021 • 44:59

Massachusetts: 1,100 Strongly-Worded Letters with Kaben Kramer

Massachusetts: 1,100 Strongly-Worded Letters with Kaben Kramer

In this episode, Sharon tells Kaben Kramer about the best letter-writer of all time, Abigail Adams. Born and raised in the great state of Massachusetts, Abigail wrote over 1,100 letters to her husband, President John Adams, throughout his political career. Her words packed a punch, and her letters frequently persuaded her husband to advocate for women’s rights and condemn slavery on the floors of our new nation’s Congress. Abigail was a trusted wife, loving mother, charitable educator,

Oct 22, 2021 • 49:42

Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard

Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Martin Dugard, a fellow history buff and the bestselling author of “Taking Paris” and “Killing Lincoln.” Martin and Sharon discuss why history is anything but boring and talk about Martin’s latest book “Taking Paris.” Martin shares mind-blowing facts and never-before-heard information about the 1940 Nazi invasion of Paris; you are sure to have some brain-tingling moments! As well, Sharon and Martin discuss their love of history and learning, and Mart

Oct 20, 2021 • 48:13

43. Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard

43. Taking Paris & Writing Bestsellers with Martin Dugard

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Martin Dugard, a fellow history buff and the bestselling author of “Taking Paris” and “Killing Lincoln.” Martin and Sharon discuss why history is anything but boring and talk about Martin’s latest book “Taking Paris.” Martin shares mind-blowing facts and never-before-heard information about the 1940 Nazi invasion of Paris; you are sure to have some brain-tingling moments! As well, Sharon and Martin discuss their love of history and learning, and Martin explai

Oct 20, 2021 • 0:00

Maryland: The Man Who Gave America its Anthem with Sharon McMahon

Maryland: The Man Who Gave America its Anthem with Sharon McMahon

In this episode, Sharon talks about a 19th century American Lawyer, Francis Scott Key, whose best-known contribution to American history was writing the US National Anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner. We all know the words “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave,” but what do we know about the man who penned them? Listen to learn the true legacy of Francis Scott Key, a man with drastically incongruent convictions about matters of national security, including war and slavery. Francis Scott Ke

Oct 18, 2021 • 34:43

Embracing the High 5 Habit with Mel Robbins

Embracing the High 5 Habit with Mel Robbins

In this episode, Sharon is joined by bestselling author and world-renowned speaker, Mel Robbins, who talks about her latest book, The High 5 Habit. After experiencing the lowest point in her life, Mel did something life-changing: She gave herself a high-five in the mirror. Mel uncovers the magic and science behind giving yourself a high-five and explains how we can make self-encouragement a habit. Mel calls us back to ourselves and provides practical tools to feeling grounded, comfortab

Oct 15, 2021 • 57:06

Maine: Staying for the Finish with Elsie Larson

Maine: Staying for the Finish with Elsie Larson

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Elsie Larson, creator of A Beautiful Mess, to share the story of Senator Margaret Chase Smith, a Maine woman who refused to take no for an answer. Margaret Chase Smith was the first woman in U.S history to hold a seat in both houses of Congress. With nearly 40 years in office, Senator Smith's career is marked with incredible achievements, such as being responsible for the U.S moon landing and being the first woman to run for U.S president. Known for

Oct 13, 2021 • 33:20

39. Sharon Answers Your Questions #2

39. Sharon Answers Your Questions #2

In this episode, Sharon sits down to answer your burning questions about the American government. From state secession and immigration to the Library of Congress artifacts and city council, Sharon fields questions that are piquing the interest of the Governerd community. Have a question for Sharon? Visit sharonmcmahon.com/podcast to record a voice memo with your question for consideration in the next Sharon Q&A episode. For more information on this episode including all resources an

Oct 11, 2021 • 28:25

On an Arctic Island with Cecilia Blomdahl

On an Arctic Island with Cecilia Blomdahl

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in the North Pole? In this episode, Sharon gets the inside scoop on Arctic living from photographer and TikTok sensation Cecilia Blomdahl. Cecilia lives in the northernmost town in the world on the Arctic island of Svalbard. Though not exactly the North Pole, Cecilia sees her fair share of polar bears and reindeer. As well, she spends two months of the winter in complete darkness and two months of the summer in 24-hours of sunlight. From liv

Oct 8, 2021 • 41:30

Louisiana: The Notorious Pirate Who Saved America

Louisiana: The Notorious Pirate Who Saved America

In this solo episode, Sharon shares the story of Jean Lafitte. Jean was a Louisiana blacksmith, and when the United States passed the Embargo Act in the early 1800s, Jean and his brother turned to smuggling goods to make a living. The smuggling escalated to full-on piracy and the brothers were instrumental in getting goods to U.S. citizens and helping the US Navy. Sharon goes into detail about Jean’s role in the War of 1812 and the importance of the Louisiana Purchase. For more informat

Oct 6, 2021 • 27:43

Civility and Civic Duty with the American Moms

Civility and Civic Duty with the American Moms

In this episode, Sharon is joined by American Moms, Andrea and Brittany. After serving as a press secretary on Capitol Hill and a speechwriter for President George W. Bush, Andrea and Brittany took their knowledge about the inner-workings of the federal government and started a viral Instagram account that takes the overwhelm out of politics. They share funny stories from their jobs and speak on the importance of promoting civility in politics. Sharon and the American Moms also give adv

Oct 4, 2021 • 40:59

Kentucky: The Rosemary Clooney Legacy with Lauren Kachinske

Kentucky: The Rosemary Clooney Legacy with Lauren Kachinske

In this episode, Sharon sits down with her friend Lauren Kachinske to discuss the legacy of Rosemary Clooney. Rosemary was an American singer and actress best known for her song "Come On-a My House" and the movie “White Christmas.” Born and raised in Kentucky, Rosemary was abandoned by both of her parents as a teenager. After moving to New York City in her 20s with a dream to make it as a singer, Rosemary was invited to sing on one of Frank Sinatra’s records. Rosemary faced many obstacl

Oct 1, 2021 • 41:48

Surviving the 9/11 Terrorist Attack with Shumi Brody

Surviving the 9/11 Terrorist Attack with Shumi Brody

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Shumi Brody, a survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Twin Towers. Shumi was working in the North Tower when the plane struck the building. As she was escaping down the stairwell, a brief encounter with a firefighter changed her life forever. He told her to keep moving and stay calm. Shumi recounts the horrific sights and utter confusion she experienced that day, while also detailing the acts of love and selflessness she witnessed as people put

Sep 29, 2021 • 38:23

Kansas: An Accidental Election with Sharon McMahon

Kansas: An Accidental Election with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon tells the story of Susanna Madora Salter, who accidentally became the first female mayor ever elected. What started as a ploy to throw off the mayoral election by a group of men in her small Kansas town quickly turned into a historical moment. At this time, candidates could create their own ballots and campaign for votes, so Susanna had no idea that she was even on the ballot during the election. In this episode, Sharon shares facts about voting during the l

Sep 27, 2021 • 24:10

Stay Curious & Keep Exploring with Emily Calandrelli

Stay Curious & Keep Exploring with Emily Calandrelli

Sit down with Sharon as she interviews the one and only @TheSpaceGal, Emily Calandrelli. Most people are fascinated by space and the myths surrounding space. In this episode, Sharon gets Emily’s thoughts on aliens, life outside of Earth, how the space industry has changed and expanded, and what is next in space development. In addition, Sharon dives into STEM education and Emily’s career and how she made a name for herself and forged her own path in helping people stay curious and keep

Sep 24, 2021 • 40:50

Iowa: Musical Chairs with Mary Marantz

Iowa: Musical Chairs with Mary Marantz

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Mary Marantz, best-selling author, podcast host, and renowned photographer, to break down the system of the Iowa caucus. Iowa caucuses are electoral events that take place every presidential election among Iowa voters. Compared to the traditional secret ballot most American voters are accustomed to, Iowa has maintained the voting system used by our nation’s founders over 200 years ago. The caucus is a universally confusing concept to voters in stat

Sep 22, 2021 • 45:20

I Pledge Allegiance to the Facts with Mosheh Oinounou

I Pledge Allegiance to the Facts with Mosheh Oinounou

In this episode, Sharon and seasoned journalist and news producer, Mosheh Oinounou, dive into the world of the media and the complexities of the world around us. Sharon and Mosheh discuss who and what to trust in the media as well as how to create a game plan for consuming factual and verified information. When it comes to national and international events, there is always more than meets the eye. Join Sharon and Mosheh as they uncover how listeners can see through media nuances to the

Sep 20, 2021 • 44:43

Indiana: President Of The Month with Sharon McMahon

Indiana: President Of The Month with Sharon McMahon

In this episode, Sharon shares the story of the shortest American presidency in our nation’s history. William Henry Harrison was an American military officer and politician who served as the ninth president of the United States, elected during the 1840 election. Harrison became the first president to die in office just one month after taking the Oath of Office. Harrison was the last U.S. president born under British rule and became a pioneer of the American Whig Party during his presid

Sep 17, 2021 • 34:54

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man with Emmanuel Acho

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man with Emmanuel Acho

In this episode, Sharon sits down for an uncomfortable conversation with bestselling author and Emmy-nominated host, Emmanuel Acho. Known for his viral web series and book, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” Emmanuel is no stranger to navigating difficult conversations surrounding race in the United States. Emmanuel and Sharon dive head first into topics such as white privilege, teaching our children about race and the key messages of the social justice movement. Taught wi

Sep 15, 2021 • 39:31

Illinois: The White City with Ashley Lemieux

Illinois: The White City with Ashley Lemieux

In this episode, Sharon takes Ashley LeMieux on a tour of the world’s most spectacular fair, the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The World’s Columbian Exposition was a fair like none other. Located in Chicago on a 690-acre fairground, the exposition attracted over 27 million people. The fair dazzled visitors with 200 extravagant buildings and palaces, impressive spectacles of electric lights, the world’s first ferris wheel and exact replicas of the Niña, Pinta and Santa Maria (Col

Sep 13, 2021 • 40:59

26. Idaho: The Iron Cage of the Law with Sharon McMahon

26. Idaho: The Iron Cage of the Law with Sharon McMahon

In this episode, Sharon tells listeners about an incredible woman that is often left out of  the history books: Rebecca Brown Mitchell of Idaho. Rebecca was known to have a “fire in her bones” that fueled her deep passion for education and justice. Rebecca’s story begins on the dirt-floor of an abandoned saloon in Idaho Falls. There, she taught the town’s children how to read and write, and she hosted weekly Sunday School. Flashing forward a few years, Rebecca established the town’s fir

Aug 30, 2021 • 27:07

Hawaii: The Olympic Swim Coach Who Couldn't Swim with Kristina Kuzmic

Hawaii: The Olympic Swim Coach Who Couldn't Swim with Kristina Kuzmic

In this episode, Sharon tells Kristina Kuzmic the story of Soichi Sakamoto, a man from Hawaii who became an Olympic swim coach when he didn’t even know how to swim himself. After teaching his boy scout troop to swim, Soichi set out on a new life’s mission: to coach Olympic swimmers. He started the Three Year Swim Club, promising his students that they would be world-class swimmers within three years. His swim club was made up of impoverished children, many of whom did not have bathing s

Aug 30, 2021 • 34:47

Changing Ideologies with Jen Hatmaker

Changing Ideologies with Jen Hatmaker

In this episode, Sharon sits down with author and speaker Jen Hatmaker to address the challenges of confronting firmly held beliefs, how to grow and adapt without abandoning your identity, and giving yourself the permission to explore. If you are trying to reconcile new and old ideas amid growth and change, dive into this riveting and humorous discussion between Jen and Sharon. For more information on this episode including all resources and links discussed go to https://www.sharonmcmah

Aug 30, 2021 • 41:09

Flying with Presidents with Wanda Joell

Flying with Presidents with Wanda Joell

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Senior Master Sergeant Wanda Joell, the first African-American woman to serve as a flight attendant on Air Force One. Wanda gives an insider’s look into the most exclusive plane in the world - describing what the inside of Air Force One looks like and sharing stories about the various U.S presidents she served.  Throughout her 24 years of service, Wanda welcomed four presidents - George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama - aboa

Aug 30, 2021 • 35:18

The Power of Words with Faith Cade

The Power of Words with Faith Cade

In this episode, Sharon and therapist Faith Cade dive into the world of mental health and self-care. While a conversation about bubble baths and spa trips would be fun, Faith shares something so much better - how to implement practical self-love into your life. Faith explains what self-care really is and how self-affirmation can replace the negative voice inside our head with a voice that is hopeful and empowering. As well, Sharon and Faith speak on the immense responsibility we all car

Aug 23, 2021 • 38:03

How Journalism Gets it Wrong (and Right!) with Belinda Luscombe

How Journalism Gets it Wrong (and Right!) with Belinda Luscombe

Sharon sits down with Belinda Luscbome, TIME Magazine Editor and author of “Marriageology,” to examine the inner workings of modern journalism in America. As a veteran journalist with over 30 years under her belt at TIME Magazine, Belinda provides a wise perspective on the fate of journalism in the digital world, the importance of fact checking, how to identify credible news sources and the impact money really plays in the editorial process. Coming off the heels of one of the most contr

Aug 23, 2021 • 42:38

Humanizing Politics with Sarah and Beth from Pantsuit Politics

Humanizing Politics with Sarah and Beth from Pantsuit Politics

Having a civil conversation about politics in our polarized society seems to be a near-impossible task these days. But why? In this episode, Sharon and hosts of Pantsuit Politics Beth and Sarah talk about how we can have kind, thoughtful and compassionate political discussions on and offline. Beth and Sarah talk about the political polarization we face today and why people get so up-in-arms about politics. Their answer: We care so much because we care about each other.  When we realize

Aug 23, 2021 • 27:30

Georgia: A Grand Mansion of Sound with Sharon McMahon

Georgia: A Grand Mansion of Sound with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode, Sharon shares the story and career of opera sensation Jessye Norman from Augusta, Georgia. By the end of this episode, you will love and adore the voice of this woman, who was a pioneer in so much more than opera. Jessye was born in the 1940’s South, where Jim Crow Laws were in place - schools, businesses, and her town were still segregated. Her mother was a school teacher and taught all her children to read and play the piano - and that is where her family discove

Aug 23, 2021 • 27:30

18. Florida: Florida Forever with Dani Coke

18. Florida: Florida Forever with Dani Coke

For this episode, Sharon and her guest Danielle Coke take a look into the Happiest Place on Earth - Disney World, and the man who created it. The two take their love for Walt Disney and dive deep into his past, including his unconventional approach to be involved in the US Army during World War I and his first big feature film Snow White. In this episode, you’ll learn how Walt Disney built his empire from humble beginnings and helped put Florida on the map as a massive tourist location

Aug 16, 2021 • 37:26

17. Sharon Answers Your Questions #1

17. Sharon Answers Your Questions #1

Introducing Sharon Answers Your Questions! This marks the first episode of Sharon randomly selecting five questions from her listeners and answering them with wit, heart, and as always -- stone-cold facts. The topics of this episode include: executive orders and Second Amendment sanctuary states. Are executive orders constitutional, and what is a Second Amendment sanctuary? As well, Sharon will explain how to weigh a historical figure’s positive contributions against their problematic b

Aug 16, 2021 • 29:17

Thank you for Voting with Erin Geiger Smith

Thank you for Voting with Erin Geiger Smith

In this episode, Sharon interviews Erin Geiger Smith who is a lawyer-turned-journalist and the author of Thank You for Voting. If you’ve been paying attention to headlines in the past few months, you know the conversation around voting laws is now more heated than ever. But why? To give us a better look into why we are here now, Erin walks us through the history of voting in the U.S., covering everything from voter suppression tactics to why some women refused to eat until they were giv

Aug 16, 2021 • 48:59

Delaware: Census Taker of the Sky with Quigley Goode

Delaware: Census Taker of the Sky with Quigley Goode

Sharon is joined by Quigley and Alex Goode, professional content creators and founders of Soulcial Media, to learn about a legend in astronomy, Annie Jump Cannon. Born on the eve of the women’s suffrage movement, Annie Jump Cannon was an American astronomer and pioneer of star classification who acquired a college education and made a career for herself in a society that discouraged both of which. Known as the “Census Taker of the Sky,” Annie is most well-known for developing a star cat

Aug 16, 2021 • 26:32

How Setting Boundaries Can Create Peace with Nedra Tawwab

How Setting Boundaries Can Create Peace with Nedra Tawwab

In this episode, seasoned relationship therapist and bestselling author Nedra Tawwab graces us with her wisdom and teaches us how to set boundaries and navigate relationships. Nedra explains how we can reclaim ourselves by breaking our people-pleasing tendencies and learning to honor our personal needs, safety and mental wellbeing. Nedra offers a wealth of advice, ranging from specific language we can use when setting and maintaining boundaries to ways we can diffuse heated political ar

Aug 9, 2021 • 29:47

Why Texas Can’t Secede with Sharon McMahon

Why Texas Can’t Secede with Sharon McMahon

In this solo episode of Sharon Says So, Sharon breaks down one of her most asked questions - what’s the deal with Texas, and can they really secede? Rooted in the United States Constitution, Sharon will explain the fundamental law of the land and how Texas is bound to these laws through its own state Constitution. A few myths are debunked throughout the episode - going back to the origin of the state in 1845 and the creation of its own state constitution. She shares the four reasons why

Aug 9, 2021 • 16:35

Waging Peace with Diana Oestreich

Waging Peace with Diana Oestreich

In this episode, Sharon is joined by bestselling author, former combat medic and fellow-Minnesotan Diana Oestreich. After being deployed to Iraq immediately following the 9/11 attacks, Diana faced the horrors of war and some of the most difficult moral decisions anyone could possibly imagine. However, after she was shown a heartwarming act of kindness and trust by an Iraqi woman, Diana’s life was changed forever. Her new mission: to bring humanity to an inhumane war. Upon returning home

Aug 9, 2021 • 33:46

Connecticut: The Father of Education with Kevin and Layla Palmer

Connecticut: The Father of Education with Kevin and Layla Palmer

In this episode, Sharon sits down with her good friends, Kevin and Layla Palmer. Sharon and the Palmers explore the ambitious life of Noah Webster, an American lexicographer, author, editor, and textbook pioneer. At the height of the Gilded Age, Noah Webster revolutionized the American education system and his influence in the classroom has remained present since the 19th century. Webster authored the first American textbook after British rule called the “Blue-Backed Speller” which sold

Aug 9, 2021 • 32:31

How to be a Good News Consumer with Jessica Yellin

How to be a Good News Consumer with Jessica Yellin

In this episode, Sharon sits down with long-time journalist, author, and former CNN Chief White House Correspondent, Jessica Yellin to tackle the topic of the media and news. In an era of the 24-hour news cycle, we are constantly bombarded with new information, analysis and opinions. Luckily, Sharon and Jessica are here to teach listeners how to cut through the noise and discern what is actually news. Jessica gives an insider’s look into the faults she sees in today’s media, while also

Aug 2, 2021 • 37:12

Colorado: Angel of the Rockies with Jessica Malaty Rivera

Colorado: Angel of the Rockies with Jessica Malaty Rivera

In this episode, Sharon tells the heartfelt story of Clara Brown, the “Angel of the Rockies” to Jessica Malaty Rivera.  Jessica is a friend and brilliant epidemiologist who may or may not have cried when she heard the touching details of Clara’s story. Sharon takes listeners back to the year 1800 when Clara Brown was born into slavery in Kentucky. When she was 56, Clara was granted her freedom, but her husband and children were abruptly sold off as slaves. With nowhere else to go, Clar

Aug 2, 2021 • 32:07

How to Be a Good Internet Citizen with Glo Atanmo

How to Be a Good Internet Citizen with Glo Atanmo

In this episode with Glo Atanmo, Sharon sits down to talk about how we consume social media and the person behind the posts. Glo has many titles, roles, and passions but is best described as a creative educator. She has traveled to over 80 countries, and with every post, she approaches them with an educational lens, because she loves to learn and share experiences with others. In this conversation, the two open up about having public platforms and the pressures that come along with this

Aug 2, 2021 • 42:53

California: Father of National Parks with Kendra Adachi

California: Father of National Parks with Kendra Adachi

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Kendra Adachi, affectionately known on the internet as the Lazy Genius, who is also the host of The Lazy Genius Podcast and author of The Lazy Genius Way. Sharon and Kendra discuss the passionate nature of John Muir, an environmental philosopher, mountaineer, botanist, glaciologist, and preservation advocate who is considered to be the Father of the National Parks. During the westward expansion of the late 1800s, John Muir dedicated his life to the p

Aug 2, 2021 • 28:06

Arkansas: The Lost Year with Bethanie Garcia

Arkansas: The Lost Year with Bethanie Garcia

In this episode, Sharon tells the story of the Little Rock Nine to her friend and successful blogger and podcast host, Bethanie Garcia. At the end of the 1950s, following the Brown v. Board of Education decision to integrate schools, the town of Little Rock was nothing short of tumultuous, when nine black students integrated the public high school. Sharon details the complex and outrageous occurrences that happened in Little Rock during those years, including the arrival of the National

Jul 26, 2021 • 32:00

How to Stop Being Wrong with Adam Grant

How to Stop Being Wrong with Adam Grant

In this episode, Sharon is joined by organizational psychologist and top-rated Wharton professor Adam Grant. Adam is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of five books, most recently Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know. Sharon and Adam talk about human behavior, the differences between principles and policies, how to humanize those with whom you disagree, why you shouldn’t agree to disagree...and they do, of course, solve all the world’s problems. Hosted on Acast.

Jul 26, 2021 • 53:03

Arizona: The Confession with Jami Nato

Arizona: The Confession with Jami Nato

In this episode, Sharon is joined by friend and successful entrepreneur, Jami Nato, to discuss the story behind Miranda v Arizona. We’ve all heard the line “You have the right to remain silent” but most don’t know the fascinating tale of Ernesto “Ernie” Miranda and how his smalltown trial led to one of the most iconic Supreme Court cases in American history. Sharon and Jami share their thoughts about why the trial of an undoubtedly guilty man was appealed by the Court and how it reflect

Jul 26, 2021 • 43:29

The Man Who Named a Bluebird After Me with Carlos Whittaker

The Man Who Named a Bluebird After Me with Carlos Whittaker

In this episode, Sharon meets with her dear friend and bestselling author Carlos Whittaker to discuss how to let go of fear and change the world in a positive way. In an era of social media and ‘cancel culture,’ it seems more daunting than ever to pursue a cause or passion. Whether it's fear of public backlash or the intimidation that comes with comparison to other world-changers on social media, Carlos and Sharon explore how to take a risk in order to rescue the world. Carlos offers li

Jul 19, 2021 • 40:33

Alaska: The Sled Dogs Who Saved a Village with Dr. Shanté Cofield

Alaska: The Sled Dogs Who Saved a Village with Dr. Shanté Cofield

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Shanté Cofield, a business coach helping movement and health professionals succeed in the online space. The two connect to discuss the story behind the little-known 1925 Serum Run, which took place in the brutal Alaskan wilderness. During a health crisis, town doctor Curtis Welch was faced with diagnosing and treating an unknown illness, all before it infected the whole town of 1,400 people. Left with limited resources and a short deadline, the

Jul 19, 2021 • 41:11

1. Alabama - The Man Who Almost Wasn't Vice President with Abi Ayres

1. Alabama - The Man Who Almost Wasn't Vice President with Abi Ayres

In this episode, Sharon is joined by Abigail Ayres, an average person, in her own words, bringing love, life, laughter, and joy to Instagram. Sharon and Abigail discuss the life and legacy of William Rufus King, the 13th vice president of the United States, who served a term of a few weeks before his untimely death. William Rufus King’s lifelong political career was a far cry from those who are expected to follow the ethical, democratic process we uphold today, and Sharon shares how Kin

Jul 19, 2021 • 32:13

Introducing the Sharon Says So Podcast with Sharon McMahon

Introducing the Sharon Says So Podcast with Sharon McMahon

Welcome to the Sharon Say So podcast with Sharon McMahon. You may know Sharon from her viral Instagram, SharonSaysSo, or you might have seen her feature on “Good Morning America.” Maybe you’re brand new! However you found this podcast - glad you could make it! It’s time to have some fun. As a former government and law teacher, Sharon created Sharon Says So with the goal of providing fascinating information about US politics and history in the most entertaining way possible. With dazzlin

Jul 12, 2021 • 2:33

Switch to the Fountain App