Was the Italian Renaissance only for men? While history remembers the names of Michelangelo, Leonardo, and the Medici, one woman’s story of power, art, and ambition rivals them all. In this episode, we uncover the life of Isabella d'Este, the First Lady of the Renaissance, with acclaimed historical novelist Sarah Dunant. Discover the incredible true story of the woman who ran a state, built a world-class art collection, and navigated a dangerous marriage—all while a secret disease swept through Europe, changing her destiny forever.
Join us as celebrated author Sarah Dunant, a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, discusses her groundbreaking new novel, The Marchesa. Dunant shares how a simple question from her teenage daughter—"Where were the women?"—sparked a two-decade journey to uncover the forgotten stories of Renaissance women. This episode reveals the fascinating life of Isabella d'Este, a political mastermind and fashion icon who was brilliantly educated in humanist culture. From an early age, she was a force to be reckoned with, known for her sharp intellect and unshakeable confidence. Dunant explains how Isabella became a pioneer of female art patronage, commissioning works from the greatest artists of her time and building a collection that was the envy of popes and kings.
We dive deep into the thousands of letters preserved in the Mantua archive, which provide an unprecedented look into Isabella’s mind. These documents reveal her cunning diplomacy as she ran the city-state of Mantua while her husband was away at war. We also explore her intense rivalry with her notorious sister-in-law, Lucretia Borgia. In a particularly captivating part of the interview, Dunant sheds light on a shocking and little-known aspect of the era: the history of syphilis in Italy. She details how the "French pox" arrived from the New World and secretly ravaged the European aristocracy, revealing a stunning discovery from her research that suggests Isabella knew her husband had the disease and took control of her own fate. Finally, hear about the author's own journey to publish Sarah Dunant The Marchesa, a beautifully illustrated hybrid of history and fiction that she was so passionate about, she decided to publish it herself.
About Our Guest:
Sarah Dunant is an award-winning British novelist, journalist, and critic. She is a recognized expert on the Italian Renaissance and has written six novels set in the period, all focused on bringing the vibrant and often hidden lives of women to the forefront. Her latest book, The Marchesa, is a culmination of years of deep archival research into the life of the extraordinary Isabella d'Este.
Timestamps:
(01:12) "Where Were the Women?": Sarah Dunant's Journey to the Renaissance
(05:32) Introducing Isabella d'Este: The First Woman of the World
(10:08) Uncovering History: Inside the Gonzaga Archive in Mantua
(14:18) The First Female Art Patron: Building Isabella's Legendary Collection
(20:23) A Rivalry of Style and Power: Isabella d'Este and Lucretia Borgia
(24:52) The Past Talks Back: How Fiction Can Challenge Our View of History
(31:36) The Secret Disease That Forged a Marriage: The History of Syphilis in the Renaissance
(38:15) The Author’s Own Battle: The Journey to Self-Publishing The Marchesa
(41:21) What's Next for Sarah Dunant?
Learn More & Episode Resources:
In 1980, a 20-year-old Graham Broyd turned a prestigious six-week scholarship to Washington, D.C. into the adventure of a lifetime. He traded his ticket for a flight to Los Angeles with a dream of surfing in Malibu and a wild plan to hitchhike across the country. In this episode, Graham shares the incredible story of his journey, a tale he revisited in 2024 to see how the country and he had changed. This is the ultimate story of hitchhiking across America then and now. What happens when you have just $600 to survive for six weeks, relying on your wits and the kindness—or danger—of strangers?
This sprawling conversation, a must-listen for fans of incredible travel stories, is like a living "Backpack, Jacket, Surfboard" book review. Author Graham Broyd sits down with Blaine DeSantis to recount his unbelievable journey. We hear tales of extreme budget survival, like his method for turning a single Big Mac into a three-course meal, a story that comically landed his book in the "cooking humor" category on Amazon. Graham shares the unwritten rules and etiquette of the road, offering a fascinating look into the lost art of hitchhiking. This Graham Broyd travel memoir comes to life as he discusses his disastrous first attempt at surfing in Malibu, how he acquired an eight-foot surfboard as a travel companion, and the frightening night he spent alone in the desolate expanse of Death Valley.
The episode explores the stark difference between America in 1980 vs 2024, contrasting the past with the present through Graham’s retraced journey. He shares thrilling and sometimes chilling stories from hitchhiking America, from navigating an unwelcome advance near the Grand Canyon to the bizarre experience of ending up in Tijuana, Mexico on a trip to Malibu—a mystery he still hasn't solved. We learn how a single smart jacket gave him access to the high-rolling casinos of 1980s Las Vegas and how a chance encounter in a youth hostel led to a stunning interview with Senator Howard Baker about the Panama Canal Treaty. This detailed look at hitchhiking across America then and now culminates in a tale of unexpected benevolence on the gritty subways of New York City, proving that adventure and humanity can be found where you least expect them.
About Our Guest:
Graham Broyd is the author of the travel memoir "Backpack, Jacket, Surfboard." In 1980, at the age of 20, he embarked on an impromptu hitchhiking trip across the United States, a journey that profoundly shaped his life. Over 40 years later, he retraced his steps to recapture 24 photos from his original trip, discovering not only how much America had changed, but how much he had as well.
Timestamps:
(00:00) A Scholarship Becomes an Epic Adventure
(02:12) From D.C. Scholarship to a Cross-Country Hitchhiking Adventure
(05:20) Surviving on $15 a Day: The Three-Course Big Mac Meal
(07:45) The Mystery of Tijuana: Retracing Steps 40 Years Later
(14:29) The Reality of Surfing Malibu & Acquiring a Surfboard
(17:22) The Unwritten Rules and Etiquette of 1980s Hitchhiking
(19:49) A Terrifying Night Alone in Death Valley
(22:56) How a Smart Jacket Got Me Into Vegas Casinos
(28:09) The Dangers of the Road: An Unwelcome Encounter
(35:18) How a Hitchhiker Interviewed Senator Howard Baker
(39:48) Unexpected Kindness in 1980s New York City
(41:52) America Then and Now: A Love Letter to a Changing Nation
Learn More From Our Guest & Episode Resources:
In this exclusive Mary Grand A Halloween Murder interview, we explore a high school reunion gone horribly wrong. When old friends gather at a historic castle on the most haunted island in the world, nostalgia quickly turns to terror after one of them is found dead. Was it a tragic accident, a desperate suicide, or a calculated murder? With the castle locked down, everyone is a suspect, and time is running out to find the truth before the killer can escape.
Author Mary Grand joins the podcast to unpack her thrilling new novel, a perfect Halloween read for fans of classic whodunits. We discuss why the Isle of Wight haunted island reputation, with its mysterious ley lines and numerous historic buildings, makes it the ultimate setting for a spooky mystery. Mary shares the fascinating Carisbrook Castle history, revealing how its past as a Saxon fort, a Norman stronghold, and a royal prison for Charles I inspired this chilling tale. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves intricate locked room mystery books, as Mary explains how she crafted a puzzle where the killer had to be one of the guests trapped inside the castle walls.
Throughout this Mary Grand A Halloween Murder interview, we delve into the author's creative process. Mary talks about her beloved amateur detective from the Susan Flynn book series, and how Susan gets entangled in the investigation through her daughter, Zoe, who is a key suspect. We also explore the complex group dynamics of a high school reunion, the intense and frightening Ouija board scene, and the real-world research behind the plot, including the harrowing details of the synthetic drug 'spice' and how it's smuggled into prisons. Mary gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the actual Carisbrooke Castle ghost walk she attended for research and shares fun anecdotes about the famous Isle of Wight tomatoes and her tradition of naming fictional dogs after her friends' real-life pets. If you're a fan of Agatha Christie, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the craft of plotting a modern cozy mystery that keeps you guessing until the final page.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Mary Grand is the acclaimed author of the Susan Flynn book series, a collection of cozy mysteries set on the picturesque and eerie Isle of Wight. Often compared to Agatha Christie for her well-plotted and character-driven stories, Mary specializes in creating intricate puzzles that keep readers captivated. She lives on the Isle of Wight, the real-life setting that inspires her compelling novels.
TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS:
(00:00) A Halloween Murder: A High School Reunion Gone Wrong
(02:43) Why the Isle of Wight is the World's Most Haunted Island
(04:07) Plot Deep Dive: A Locked-Room Mystery in a Castle
(06:19) The Real History of Carisbrook Castle
(09:11) The Psychology of a High School Reunion That Curdles
(11:30) The Intense and Terrifying Ouija Board Scene
(15:49) Fun Facts: Twixmas and Famous Isle of Wight Tomatoes
(20:19) The Shocking Research Behind Smuggling the Drug 'Spice'
(24:12) Fact vs. Fiction: The Real Carisbrooke Castle Ghost Walk
(25:54) The Author's Craft: Writing Unlikable Characters and Plotting the 'Whydunit'
(31:30) The Evolution of Protagonist Susan Flynn
(36:43) What's Next for Mary Grand?
Before the Pink Ribbon, talking about breast cancer was taboo. In this episode, we uncover the shocking and inspiring history of breast cancer awareness and the three women who defied a dismissive medical establishment to save millions of lives. Author Judith L. Pearson joins us to discuss her groundbreaking book, "Radical Sisters," revealing how Shirley Temple Black, Rose Kushner, and Evelyn Lauder launched a revolution from their hospital beds and boardrooms. How did a child star, a determined journalist, and a cosmetics mogul tear down the wall of silence and change medicine forever?
This deep dive into the evolution of breast cancer advocacy explores the dark ages of treatment and the courageous fight for patient rights. Judith L. Pearson details the brutal radical mastectomy history, specifically the disfiguring Halstead radical mastectomy, a procedure that persisted long after it was proven ineffective. We revisit the pivotal moment of Shirley Temple Black breast cancer advocacy when the beloved star held an unprecedented 1972 press conference from her hospital room, urging women not to be afraid and to perform self-exams. The episode then follows the tenacious activist Rose Kushner and the one-step procedure, a barbaric practice where women went in for a biopsy and woke up with their breasts removed without their consent. Kushner’s relentless research and in-your-face advocacy, including a daring appearance on the Donahue show, forced the medical community to confront its paternalism. Finally, we explore the origins of the Evelyn Lauder Pink Ribbon Campaign and her "department store" concept for cancer care at Memorial Sloan Kettering, which was born from the frustrating and fragmented patient experience. This interview sheds light on the complete history of breast cancer awareness, from comparing the fight for funding to the AIDS movement to the discovery of the BRCA gene mutation, revealing a story of courage, tragedy, and ultimate triumph.
About Our Guest:
Judith L. Pearson is an author and historical biographer specializing in uncovering the stories of overlooked heroes. In her book, "Radical Sisters: The Women Who Pushed for and Paved the Way to Breast Cancer Awareness," she reveals the untold story of the three women whose personal battles and public advocacy transformed medicine and created the modern breast cancer movement.
Timestamps / Chapters:
(00:00) The Three Women Who Transformed Breast Cancer Awareness
(03:31) Shirley Temple Black's Groundbreaking 1972 Announcement
(06:05) Rose Kushner's Daring Appearance on the Donahue Show
(09:07) The Near-Death Experiences That Shaped the "Radical Sisters"
(14:38) How Shirley Temple's Press Conference Changed Everything
(19:22) The Brutal History of the Halstead Radical Mastectomy
(24:19) Rose Kushner's Fight Against the "One-Step Procedure"
(29:56) Evelyn Lauder's Philanthropic Vision Before and After Her Diagnosis
(32:28) Learning from the AIDS Movement to Fight for Funding
(36:04) Evelyn Lauder’s "Department Store" Concept for Cancer Care
(40:10) The True Origin Story of the Pink Ribbon Campaign
It took 30 years, multiple rewrites, and a publisher going out of business, but author Cindy Fazzi's groundbreaking story is finally here. In this episode, we sit down with Cindy for an in-depth author interview about her perseverance and the incredible journey behind the Domingo the Bounty Hunter series, a compulsively readable set of novels that turn the hard-boiled genre on its head. How do you tell a thrilling story about the chase while realistically portraying the complex, vulnerable lives of undocumented immigrants?
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Cindy Fazzi as she discusses her unique contribution to the Filipino-American thriller genre. We dive deep into the first book, Danger, No Problem, exploring the decades-long cat-and-mouse game between Domingo, a bail enforcement agent, and Monica Reed, a desperate woman in hiding. Cindy shares the fascinating reason the book was originally titled "Multo" (meaning "ghost" in Tagalog) and why her new publisher, Thomas & Mercer, decided to change it. We discuss the inspired choice to rewrite the story from Domingo's point of view, which led to the creation of his "handbook for immigrants," a book-within-the-book that adds incredible depth and humor to the character. This Cindy Fazzi author interview reveals her powerful motivation to create authentic Filipino-American characters and introduce readers to a culture rarely seen in mainstream thrillers.
But the story doesn't end there. We also discuss the highly unusual strategy of simultaneously releasing both Book 1, the Danger, No Problem book, and Book 2, Sunday or the Highway. Cindy gives us a glimpse into the plot of the second book, where Domingo is hired to find the missing parents of an heiress's mysterious boyfriend. Throughout our conversation, we touch on the serious themes in her books about undocumented immigrants, her transition from an Associated Press reporter to a novelist, and what's next for the Domingo the Bounty Hunter series.
About Our Guest:
Cindy Fazzi is a Filipino-American author and former Associated Press reporter. After a 30-year journey of perseverance, her hard-boiled thriller series was picked up by publisher Thomas & Mercer. A passionate advocate for representation in literature, Cindy created the character of Domingo to introduce readers to a captivating Filipino-American protagonist and to subvert the classic bounty hunter trope. Her books, Danger, No Problem and Sunday or the Highway, are celebrated for their tight plots, rich characters, and compassionate exploration of immigrant life in America.
Timestamps / Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:33) Introducing Cindy Fazzi & The Domingo the Bounty Hunter Series
(05:37) From "Multo" to "Danger, No Problem": The Story Behind the Title Change
(08:46) Inside the Story: The Handbook for Immigrants
(11:05) Championing Filipino-American Representation in the Thriller Genre
(13:48) Subverting the Bounty Hunter Trope
(16:29) The Three-Part Structure of "Danger, No Problem"
(21:43) An Unlikely Love Story: The Relationship Between Domingo and Monica
(25:33) Crafting a Realistic Portrayal of an Undocumented Immigrant
(30:55) From Associated Press Reporter to Thriller Novelist
(32:51) An Unlikely Strategy: The Simultaneous Release of Two Books
(34:00) Uncovering the Plot of Book 2: "Sunday or the Highway"
(39:02) What’s Next for Domingo and Cindy Fazzi?
What's deadlier: a puffer fish or a great white shark? A tiger or a lion? A beautiful flower or a venomous snake? In this episode, we sit down with PhD entomologist and author Eleanor Spicer Rice to explore the shocking, fascinating, and sometimes gross world of her hit The Deadliest book series. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged as we uncover which creatures are nature's most lethal competitors - and why the winners might not be what you expect.
This interview is a must-watch for curious kids, parents, and anyone fascinated by the natural world. Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice, an expert in entomology for kids, reveals the incredible science behind her unique children's science books, which are formatted like a thrilling game show where animals compete for the title of "deadliest." We dive deep into the criteria she uses to crown a winner (it's all about the numbers!) and discuss some of the most surprising contenders from her books on snakes, flowers, big cats, and the upcoming sea creatures edition. Dr. Rice shares why the deadliest flower kills 8 million people a year and why the deadliest sea creature isn't a shark, but a delicacy people eat on purpose
Beyond The Deadliest book series, the Eleanor Spicer Rice author discussion covers her journey from studying ants and bees to writing for children. She shares mind-blowing facts, like that the average American eats four pounds of insects a year and that clean houses can contain 100 different species of bugs. We also explore her other work, the Your Hidden Life series, which investigates mind-controlling microbes that can influence your mood and the secret ways your pets interact with the world - like how dogs align with the Earth's magnetic field when they go to the bathroom. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Rice's passion for turning fear into fascination shines, encouraging a sense of wonder about the often-misunderstood creatures living all around us.
LEARN MORE FROM OUR GUEST / EPISODE RESOURCES:
Explore The Deadliest book series (Spiders, Snakes, Big Cats, Flowers, and more)
Discover the Your Hidden Life series
Were the Martian canals real? For decades, some of the world's most respected astronomers and newspapers answered with a resounding YES. But how did a simple misunderstanding spiral into a global belief in an advanced, dying civilization on the Red Planet? This episode unwraps the incredible story of the turn-of-the-century Martian craze, a period when fact and fiction blurred, and humanity collectively looked to the stars, convinced someone was looking back. We explore how this mania began, who its biggest champions were, and how the idea of intelligent Martians shaped science and culture forever.
This deep dive into the history of our obsession with Mars is guided by acclaimed author David Baron, whose book "The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze That Captured Turn-of-the-Century America" chronicles this fascinating era. We begin with the story's surprising European origins, specifically with Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli and his 1877 observations of "canali" on the Martian surface. A critical mistranslation of Giovanni Schiaparelli canali (Italian for "channels") into "canals" in English ignited the public imagination with the possibility of artificial structures. This idea was popularized by French astronomer and author Camille Flammarion, but it was an American who would become the theory's most fervent and influential advocate: Percival Lowell.
Born into a wealthy Boston family, Percival Lowell dedicated his fortune and his life to proving the existence of an intelligent Martian race. We detail the astonishingly complex Percival Lowell Mars theory, which proposed that Mars was an old, drying planet and its inhabitants had built a planet-wide irrigation system—the Martian canals—to channel water from the polar ice caps to their desert cities. To prove it, Lowell founded the iconic Lowell Observatory in Arizona and even funded a massive expedition to Chile to capture the first-ever photographs of the canals, which he presented as undeniable proof. This led to a major rift in the scientific community, dividing astronomers into "canalists" and "anti-canalists."
The belief in Martians wasn't just confined to scientific circles; it exploded into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. We discuss the immense impact of H.G. Wells War of the Worlds, a "scientific romance" that terrified and thrilled readers. Baron reveals how American newspapers, in a bout of Yellow Press sensationalism, pirated and serialized the story, localizing the invasion to New York and Boston and presenting it almost as a news report—a tactic Orson Welles would later famously use for his 1938 radio broadcast. The fervor grew so intense that in 1924, the U.S. military was convinced to enforce national radio silence to listen for signals from the Red Planet. So, what was the final nail in the coffin for the Martian canals? Baron explains how astronomer Eugène Michel Antoniadi's crystal-clear observations in 1909 and, ultimately, NASA's Mariner 4 spacecraft flyby in the 1960s, finally disproved the theory, revealing a cratered, lifeless landscape where canals were once drawn. This entire episode serves as a powerful look into the turn-of-the-century Martian craze and how it left an indelible mark on science fiction, inspiring figures like Robert H. Goddard and Carl Sagan and shaping our dreams of outer space to this day.
About Our Guest:
David Baron is an author and science journalist who specializes in telling gripping historical tales about the history of astronomy. He is the author of the new book, "The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze That Captured Turn-of-the-Century America," as well as the award-winning "American Eclipse," which is being adapted into a Broadway musical.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction: The Martian Saga
(03:01) The 1906 New York Times Headline: "There is Life on Mars"
(04:47) European Origins: Schiaparelli, Flammarion, and the "Canali" Mistranslation
(09:09) Percival Lowell: The American Champion of the Martian Cause
(14:52) The Great Debate: Canalists vs. Anti-Canalists
(19:26) The Hunt for Proof: Lowell's Astrophotography and The Chilean Expedition
(23:26) Percival Lowell's Grand Theory of Martian Civilization
(26:54) H.G. Wells and The War of the Worlds Sensation
(33:32) Listening for Martians: The US Military's 1924 Radio Silence
(35:11) How The Martian Canals Were Finally Disproven
(41:01) The Enduring Legacy of the Martian Craze on Science Fiction
Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:
Get David Baron's Book, "The Martians"
What if you could transform your life from a pack-a-day smoker who gets winded after 500 meters to a world-record athlete? In this episode, we talk to Marie Leautey, the fastest woman to run around the world, who did exactly that. She reveals the incredible story of how an ordinary financial director with no athletic background ran the equivalent of a marathon every single day for 825 days, covering 28,249 kilometers across four continents. How is it possible to endure such a feat without a single running injury, especially when facing a global pandemic, financial strain, and unbelievable logistical challenges?
Marie Leautey shares the unfiltered story behind her book, "Lootie's World Run." We explore the official World Runners Association rules that guided her journey, including the requirement to cross a minimum of four continents and pass through two antipodal points. A huge part of her success was figuring out how to avoid running injuries, a problem that sidelines up to 70% of typical marathon trainees. Marie explains her unique "body scan" technique, a mental checklist she performed daily to listen to her body's signals, rejecting the "no pain, no gain" mentality. This strategy was crucial for running a marathon every day without issue.
The conversation takes a dramatic turn as Marie recounts the moment her journey was halted by the global pandemic. We learn about her experience running during COVID lockdown, where she was forced to pause in Italy, only to find a creative and meaningful way to continue her training: by delivering meals to the homeless on the streets of Paris while pushing her 30kg stroller. Marie also shares unbelievable stories from the road - from a stroller company that rejected her sponsorship request with a legal letter, to a heartbreaking encounter with a grieving mother in North Dakota, a bizarre run-in with a drunken raccoon in Pennsylvania, and a costly mistake involving an onion that led to a $2,600 fine in Australia. This is a profound story about resilience, minimalism, and discovering that the journey, not the destination, is the ultimate reward.
About Our Guest:
Marie Leautey is the author of "Lootie's World Run" and the world-record holder as the fastest woman to have run around the world. In a remarkable transformation, she went from being a chain-smoking financial director to an elite endurance athlete, completing her global circumnavigation on foot in 825 days. Her story is a powerful testament to human potential and the power of redefining one's limits.
Timestamps / Chapters:
(0:00) From Chain-Smoker to World Record Holder
(5:20) The Official Rules for Running Around the World
(8:47) How Marie Avoided Injury While Running a Marathon a Day
(12:08) An Unstoppable Run Meets a Global Pandemic
(17:22) The 30kg Companion: Pushing a Stroller & Embracing Minimalism
(20:26) A Sponsorship Story: The Stroller Company That Said No
(23:27) Finding an Inner Pace: The Psychology of Running Without a Watch
(33:09) From Solo Runner to a Team of Two
(36:32) From a Grieving Mother to a Drunken Raccoon: Stories from the Road
(45:26) The Ithaca Philosophy: Why the Journey Is the True Reward
Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:
Get Marie's book, "Lootie's World Run"
What happens in Sherlock Holmes' world when the master detective is away and Dr. Watson is kidnapped? In this episode, we sit down with author Jeri Westerson to do a deep dive into her An Irregular Detective Mystery series, a thrilling and historically rich take on the Victorian detective genre. When Dr. Watson goes missing, it’s up to Tim Badger, a former Baker Street Irregular, and his partner, the scientifically-minded Ben Watson (no relation!), to solve a case that could make or break their fledgling detective agency.
Join us as we explore the foggy streets of Victorian London and beyond with Jeri Westerson, who shares the inspiration behind her unique characters. We discuss how her stories exist as Sherlock Holmes pastiche books, while still carving out their own distinct identity. This interview serves as a fascinating The Misplaced Physician review, detailing the plot where Badger and Watson must unravel cryptic clues left in the untold tales of the Sherlock Holmes canon to save their hero. We also explore the core themes of the Tim Badger and Ben Watson series, including the rigid class differences of the era and the challenges faced by our working-class heroes. Jeri explains the fascinating historical accuracy she weaves into her novels, from the shocking reality of mummy unwrapping parties to the surprising efficiency of 12-times-a-day mail delivery in 1895. A major focus is the character of Miss Ellsie Moira Littleton, a determined and educated Victorian era female journalist modeled on real-life reporters of the day, like Nellie Bly. Finally, Jeri gives us a sneak peek into the future of the series, including the upcoming books "The Vampire Client" and "The Magician's Misadventure."
About Our Guest:
Jeri Westerson is the author of the critically acclaimed "An Irregular Detective Mystery" series. A former newspaper reporter, Jeri brings her sharp eye for detail and dedication to historical research to her novels. She is known for creating vibrant worlds, from medieval noir to Victorian London, and populating them with relatable characters navigating extraordinary circumstances. Her work, including these brilliant Sherlock Holmes pastiche books, masterfully blends humor, adventure, and meticulous historical authenticity.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Introduction: The Case of "The Misplaced Physician"
(01:30) Introducing the "An Irregular Detective Mystery" Series
(06:20) Inspiration: Crafting a Sherlock Holmes Pastiche with a Unique Twist
(09:42) Jeri Westerson's Journey from Reporter to Novelist
(11:10) Exploring Class Differences in Victorian London
(15:06) Miss Littleton: The Rise of the Victorian Era Female Journalist
(18:02) Unearthing the "Untold Tales" of the Sherlock Holmes Canon
(21:58) Badger & Watson's Scientific Method vs. Holmes's Deduction
(26:33) Historical Authenticity: Mummy Parties, Mail Delivery, and More
(38:23) What's Next for Badger and Watson?
Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:
Visit Jeri Westerson's Website
Get "The Misplaced Physician" (An Irregular Detective Mystery #3)
Have you ever wondered about the dark side of the American dream? In this episode, we delve into the complete Seabrook Farms history, a story of ambition, innovation, and betrayal that built—and ultimately destroyed—one of America's largest agricultural empires. Author John Seabrook, grandson of the company's visionary founder, joins us to discuss his book, The Spinach King, and unearth the secrets buried beneath a dynasty built on frozen vegetables. We explore the complex question of how a family can create a national brand from nothing, only to have it torn apart by the very man who built it.
From its humble beginnings as a small truck farm in southern New Jersey, Seabrook Farms grew into a powerhouse that froze one-third of the nation's vegetables. John Seabrook recounts the story of his great-grandfather, a skilled farmer, and his grandfather, C.F. Seabrook, a Fordist industrialist who brought mass production to agriculture. C.F. Seabrook partnered with the legendary Clarence Birdseye to pioneer the flash-freezing process for vegetables, introducing staples like the lima bean to the East Coast. But this success came at a cost. We uncover the shocking story of CF Seabrook erasing his father from history, fabricating a more "illustrious" ancestry to bolster the family brand while cheating his own father out of the company he helped build.
The episode examines the complex labor practices that defined the company. We discuss the controversial story of the Seabrook Farms Japanese-American workers, who were recruited from internment camps during World War II under Executive Order 9066, as well as Estonian workers from displaced persons camps after the war. While the company created a unique, multicultural community in Seabrook, New Jersey, this benevolent image is contrasted with a much darker chapter: the violent 1934 Seabrook Farms labor strike. John Seabrook reveals how this event, involving armed vigilantes and the KKK, was systematically erased from the official company narrative. The full Seabrook Farms history is a complex tale of both progress and oppression, culminating in a family war that led to the company's collapse in 1959. This interview, inspired by the book John Seabrook The Spinach King, exposes the human drama behind the iconic brand, from a cameo in Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey to the family's strange friendship with a gangster bodyguard and the fairytale meeting of John's parents at Grace Kelly's royal wedding.
About Our Guest:
John Seabrook is the author of The Spinach King: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty and a long-time staff writer at The New Yorker. As the son and grandson of the men at the center of the Seabrook Farms empire, he provides a deeply personal and unflinchingly honest account of his family's incredible rise and devastating fall, piecing together a story of innovation, family conflict, and the hidden costs of success.
Timestamps:
(0:00) The Dark Secrets of an American Food Dynasty
(2:05) The Rise of a Frozen Vegetable Empire and the History of Seabrook Farms
(8:40) Erasing a Patriarch: How C.F. Seabrook Rewrote His Family's History
(13:51) A Controversial Workforce: Japanese-American Labor During WWII
(23:55) The 1934 Strike: Labor, Race, and the KKK in South Jersey
(29:54) From the Farm to Outer Space: Seabrook’s Cameo in 2001: A Space Odyssey
(33:07) An Unlikely Friendship: John Seabrook's Father and Red Saunders the Gangster
(37:23) A Royal Wedding: How Grace Kelly United John Seabrook's Parents
(46:24) The Art of Four-in-Hand Coaching: A Father's Peculiar Passion
(52:13) The Fall of a Dynasty: Who Owns Seabrook Farms Today?
Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:
Read the book we discussed, The Spinach King
Learn more about John Seabrook
Ever wondered about the real story behind a bottle of tequila? It's not just about agave and distilling; it's a dramatic saga of revolution, political betrayal, and intense family rivalries. In this episode, we're joined by author Ted Genoways to uncover the incredible history of Jose Cuervo, a story that is far more turbulent and cinematic than you can imagine. We'll explore how one man's ambition to build a business empire became entangled in a bloody struggle for the very spirit of Mexico.
Join us as we dive deep into the subjects of Ted Genoways' groundbreaking book, "Tequila Wars." Discover how the tequila industry wasn't just a bystander but a central player in Mexico's national conflicts. We explore the bitter Cuervo and Sauza family rivalry, a competition that shaped not only the business but also the political landscape of Jalisco. Learn about the Porfirio Diaz tequila industry connection, where Cuervo's own uncle, Florentino Cuervo, was a key figure in the revolution that brought Diaz to power, only to be betrayed later. This complex saga reveals how these families navigated shifting allegiances and constant violence during the tumultuous era of tequila and the Mexican Revolution. From militia leaders running distilleries to the struggle to build modern infrastructure like railroads amidst national chaos, this conversation uncovers a lost chapter of history.
This episode peels back the label to reveal the true story behind one of the world's most famous spirits. We discuss how Jose Cuervo's project to rebuild his family's empire was a narrative of genius and resilience, culminating at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, a pivotal moment that forced the industry to modernize. Yet, just as Cuervo built the infrastructure for a global business, the revolution erupted, forcing distilleries to close and pitting figures like Pancho Villa against American interests right on the distribution lines. The full history of Jose Cuervo is a tale of how a regional spirit survived near-constant warfare to become a national symbol, ironically aided by the era of Prohibition in the United States. Don't miss this fascinating discussion about Ted Genoways Tequila Wars, a story waiting to be told.
About Our Guest:
Ted Genoways is an acclaimed author and journalist. His book, "Tequila Wars: Jose Cuervo, and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico," is the result of years of deep investigation into a history that many believed was lost forever. Sparked by family stories from his father, a bat biologist who worked in the agave fields of Jalisco, Ted embarked on a journey to uncover the archives and family secrets of the tequila titans, revealing their central role in the shaping of modern Mexico.
Timestamps / Chapters:
(00:00) The Secret History of Tequila
(02:52) The Real "Tequila Wars": More Than Just Business
(04:53) From Family Stories to a Historical Epic
(12:05) The Cuervo and Sauza Rivalry: A Battle for Tequila's Soul
(16:55) The Porfirio Diaz Era: Tequila's Role in National Politics
(22:37) Uncovering Lost History: The Challenge of Research
(26:59) How Railroads Became Critical for Tequila's Expansion
(34:41) Surviving the Mexican Revolution and Pancho Villa
(38:59) How the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair Modernized Tequila
(44:59) Will "Tequila Wars" Become a Movie or TV Series?
Step inside a world of opulence, excess, and elaborate deception. While the Gilded Age is known for its industrial titans and lavish parties, a dark and fascinating criminal underworld was thriving, run by some of history's most audacious con artists. In this episode, we uncover the shocking true stories of the female grifters of the Gilded Age, a group of women who used society's expectations against itself to swindle fortunes. Author Annie Reed joins us to reveal how these master manipulators stole millions, outsmarted the shrewdest businessmen, and became legends of crime.
From high-stakes cons that shook the financial world to elaborate romance scams, this episode explores the lives of the most notorious Gilded Age swindlers. We begin with the incredible tale of Cassie Chadwick, the subject of Annie Reed's book, The Imposter Heiress. Chadwick masterminded one of the era's biggest scams by convincing bankers she was Andrew Carnegie's illegitimate daughter, securing millions in fraudulent loans. Her story serves as the yardstick against which all other swindlers were measured. But she was far from alone. We delve into the reasons why the Gilded Age was the perfect breeding ground for these criminals, as women began to demand more agency in a world dominated by men and speculative wealth. The conversation then turns to other legendary figures, including Ellen Peck, a lifelong "jack of all trades" swindler in New York whose criminal career spanned decades and netted her an estimated $30 million in today's money. We also uncover the story of Bertha "Big Bertha" Heyman, the "Confidence Queen" who retired from a life of crime to become a theater owner and lecturer. A particularly dark story is that of Sarah Howe, who preyed on vulnerable women with her "Ladies Deposit Bank," an early and cruel Ponzi scheme. Finally, we explore the incredible tale of the House of Hearts swindle, a massive marriage scam run by best friends Izzella Brown and Vina, who lured countless men into phony engagements to steal their money. These incredible true stories of the female grifters of the Gilded Age reveal a hidden side of American history, where cunning women built empires on lies.
About Our Guest:
Annie Reed is an author and historian specializing in American history and female criminals. She is the author of the bestselling book, The Imposter Heiress, which details the unbelievable life and crimes of Cassie Chadwick. After stumbling upon Chadwick's story, Reed fell down a rabbit hole of research into the many forgotten female swindlers, grifters, and thieves of the Gilded Age, becoming a leading expert on the topic.
Timestamps:
(00:00) The Notorious Women of the Gilded Age
(01:04) The Story of Cassie Chadwick, The Imposter Heiress
(04:24) Why Did Women Become Swindlers in the Gilded Age?
(07:11) Ellen Peck: New York’s Lifelong "Jack of All Trades" Swindler
(09:26) Big Bertha Heyman: The "Confidence Queen" Who Retired
(11:20) Sarah Howe and the "Ladies Deposit Bank" Ponzi Scheme
(13:40) Mabel Parker's Expert Forgery Ring
(15:12) Inside the "House of Hearts" Marriage Swindle
(19:26) How Gilded Age Cons Connect to Modern Scams
(22:31) International Counterparts: The Talented Mrs. Mandelbaum & The 40 Elephants
Go behind the music and uncover the secrets of one of the world's most iconic supergroups. In this episode, award-winning Swedish music journalist Jan Gradvall joins us to reveal The Story of ABBA, drawing from his new book, "The Story of ABBA: Melancholy Undercover." We explore the fascinating human drama, the cultural clashes, and the surprising musical genius that propelled a band from Sweden to global domination. What is the shocking truth behind their happiest songs? Jan Gradvall, who has interviewed all four members, pulls back the curtain on the legends.
From their formation as two couples who stumbled into a magical sound, to their complex journey through the pop world, this is The Story of ABBA as you've never heard it before. We start with their detailed ABBA Eurovision History, from the 1973 competition they lost in Sweden with "Ring Ring" to their game-changing 1974 victory with "Waterloo"—a glam-rock-infused pop track that broke the mold. Jan explains how the band faced intense opposition from the ABBA Progg Movement, a left-wing cultural force in Sweden that despised their commercial, capitalist sound and questioned their art. This deep dive uncovers the core of their unique sound, a concept Benny Andersson calls "Melancholy Undercover." Learn how the long, dark Scandinavian winters infused their music with a deep Swedish Melancholy in Music, creating a bittersweet feeling even in their most upbeat anthems, a sound rooted in Swedish folk traditions and Benny's accordion.
Beyond the cultural context, we explore the incredible and often overlooked talent of Agnetha Fältskog, musician. While many focused on her looks, Agnetha was the only member who could read music, an accomplished classical piano player, and a prolific songwriter in her own right. Jan Gradvall shares insights from his personal interviews with all four members, revealing why Björn Ulvaeus can't remember being on tour and how the rhythm for "Take a Chance on Me" came from the sound of him jogging. We discuss how the band never officially broke up, the 90s revival sparked by the gay community and artists like Kurt Cobain, and the origins of global phenomena like the musical Chess and the stage and film sensation Mamma Mia. This is the definitive inside look at the band's journey, their conflicts, their creative process, and how they became more popular today than ever before.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Jan Gradvall is an award-winning writer and one of Sweden's most respected music journalists. With over 40 years of experience, he has cultivated a close journalistic relationship with ABBA, having been the first journalist to conduct in-depth interviews with all four members for a single story. He is also an instrumental founder of the Swedish Music Hall of Fame. His book, "The Story of ABBA: Melancholy Undercover," is built on his decades of work and unique access to the band.
TIMESTAMPS / CHAPTERS:
(00:00) Introduction to ABBA's Hidden Story
(02:09) ABBA's Eurovision History: From 'Ring Ring' to 'Waterloo'
(07:30) Clashing with the Culture: ABBA vs. Sweden's 'Progg' Movement
(10:26) Before the Supergroup: ABBA's Roots in Swedish Folk and Rock
(12:44) Melancholy Undercover: The Swedish Soul of ABBA's Music
(14:43) Decoding 'Tourist English': The Charm of ABBA's Lyrical Style
(16:50) More Than an Image: The Overlooked Musical Talents of Agnetha Fältskog
(30:09) A Hiatus, Not a Breakup: ABBA's Unofficial Split and 90s Revival
(34:55) The Mamma Mia Phenomenon: From a Daring Idea to a Global Sensation
(40:39) The Enduring Legacy: The ABBA Museum and the 'ABBA Voyage' Experience
Get Jan Gradvall's Book, "The Story of ABBA: Melancholy Undercover": https://amzn.to/46M3Qpn
During World War II, a groundbreaking group of elite female aviators flew over 60 million miles in every type of military aircraft, from the P-51 Mustang to the B-17 Flying Fortress. They were the Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP), and after proving that women belonged in the cockpit, their program was abruptly disbanded and their contributions were erased from history for decades. How did this happen? In this episode, we uncover the hidden history of these forgotten pioneers with bestselling author Heather B. Moore.
Heather B. Moore's meticulously researched biographical fiction novel, the Lady Flyer book, brings to life the incredible story of Nancy Harkness Love, the quiet, lead-by-example director who founded the program. We explore the immense challenges these WWII female pilots faced, not just in mastering dangerous aircraft, but in battling constant bureaucratic red tape, gender bias, and political opposition. This is the story of how over 1,000 women answered their nation's call, only to be told to go home so men could have their jobs back.
In this deep dive, Heather B. Moore reveals the fascinating details behind the WASP program. We discuss the critical difference between the WAFS (Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron) and the broader Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) organization, exploring their 60-million-mile mission to ferry newly built warplanes from factories to air bases across the country. The conversation also delves into the complex and often contentious relationship between the program's two most prominent leaders: the introverted and highly respected Nancy Harkness Love and the aggressive, self-promoting Jackie Cochran, who ran the training division. Heather shares insights from her extensive research, including stories of unimaginable bravery, heartbreaking tragedy, and the internal politics that nearly grounded the program before it could take flight. We also touch upon the shocking dismissal of the WASP in 1944 and their long, arduous fight to gain official veteran status decades later, a testament to the perseverance of these remarkable women.
About Our Guest:
Heather B. Moore is a USA Today bestselling author of more than seventy publications. She is an expert in writing biographical fiction and meticulously researched historical novels that shine a light on forgotten chapters of history. Her works, including Under the Java Moon and the acclaimed Lady Flyer book, are praised for being 90% history, bringing the past to life with compelling accuracy and narrative depth. In this episode, she also gives a sneak peek into her next project about another surprising WWII figure: the French chef Julia Child and her secret work for the OSS.
Timestamps / Chapters:
(00:00) The Hidden History of America's Female WWII Pilots
(04:16) What is Lady Flyer About? The Story of the WASP
(05:34) Nancy Love's Inspiration: Witnessing Charles Lindbergh's Landing
(09:04) From Barnstormer to Leader: The Rise of Nancy Harkness Love
(14:48) The Author's Mission: Discovering This Lost History
(23:42) WASP vs. WAFS: Explaining the Acronyms of Female Fliers
(25:21) The 60-Million-Mile Mission: What Planes Did the WASP Fly?
(31:11) Rivalry & Betrayal: Nancy Love vs. Jackie Cochran
(35:59) Dismissed & Forgotten: The Fight for Recognition After WWII
(38:34) What's Next? Julia Child's Secret Life in the OSS
Learn More From Our Guest / Episode Resources:
Get your copy of Lady Flyer by Heather B. Moore
Learn more about Heather's other books
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
What if a centuries-old chess piece could trigger a murder spree in modern-day Iceland? Join molecular geneticist and author Sara Winokur as she delves into Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders, a thrilling tale where ancient artifacts, cutting-edge DNA forensics, and a chilling 1627 Turkish pirate raid collide. Discover how this historical fiction/murder mystery unravels centuries-old family secrets and grab your copy of Ivory Bones today, then subscribe to Books and Looks for more deep dives into your next great read!
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Unparalleled Access: CNN journalist Jill Dougherty spent 30 years inside Russia, witnessing Vladimir Putin's rise from KGB officer to global adversary. In this interview based on her book, "My Russia," she shares unique insights, from covering Gorbachev and Yeltsin to the Ukraine war and surprising personal encounters. Understand the man behind the power, the historical context, and the future challenges in this pivotal region.
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Secrets, family drama, and unexpected turns of fate are revealed in author Ruth Foster's unique novel. In this Books and Looks interview, Ruth discusses how "A Perfect Year?" uses annual Christmas newsletters to trace the lives of three families over decades in a British commuter town. Discover the hidden stories in plain sight and the inspiration behind this fascinating tapestry of human experience and suburban life.
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Are you ready to uncover a Gilded Age mystery that blurred the lines between fiction and reality? This week on Books & Looks, join Blaine DeSantis as he talks with acclaimed historical fiction author Marie Benedict about her new book, "The Queens of Crime." Step back to 1931 London, where legendary mystery writers Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, Ngaio Marsh, Margery Allingham, and Baroness Orczy form a secret group to assert their place in a male-dominated world. But when a real-life murder occurs, these literary icons become unlikely detectives, using their mystery-writing prowess to solve a crime the police couldn't. Learn about Benedict's extensive research into the lives of these fascinating women and the historical attitudes they defied. A tale of suspense, murder, and the power of female ingenuity. Don't miss this exclusive interview!
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Dive into the explosive Yankees-Red Sox rivalry, disco fever, and the birth of iconic TV moments as author David Krell joins Blaine DeSantis to unpack his fascinating book "1978: Baseball and America in the Disco Era." From Louisiana Lightning's unstoppable pitching to Robin Williams' star-making alien debut, discover how this pivotal year shaped American culture both on and off the diamond. Whether you're a baseball fanatic or a pop culture enthusiast, this time-traveling journey through a defining year will captivate you with untold stories and nostalgic revelations.
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.
Meet Rose Valland, the art historian turned spy who documented the Nazi's massive art theft operation from inside occupied Paris. In this riveting episode, author Michelle Young reveals how Valland secretly recorded details of over 650,000 stolen masterpieces using her near-photographic memory while facing a Nazi death warrant. Young shares previously unknown details about Valland's dangerous double life, her relationship with her British partner Joyce Heer, and how her meticulous documentation became essential to the Monuments Men. This true story of extraordinary courage illuminates how one determined woman risked everything to preserve France's cultural soul during history's darkest hours.
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Produced by Podcast Studio X.