In this episode of Your History Your Story, our guest is Jay Garfield, the three times great-grandson of James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States. Jay will share what it was like growing up as a descendant of both President Garfield and First Lady, Lucretia.
He will tell stories about Garfield’s humble beginnings in rural Ohio, his gallant service during the Civil War, his rise through the political ranks and his strong commitment to the abolition of slavery and the cause of freedom.
Jay will also talk about the tragic events surrounding President Garfield’s assassination in 1881 — and how the medical treatment he received after being shot very likely contributed to his death from infection.
Join us, as we learn more about the life and impact of one of America’s most remarkable and often overlooked presidents.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Jay Garfield
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For more information on James A. Garfield - CLICK HERE
Book recommendations:
"Destiny of the Republic" by Candice Millard
"Garfield: A Biography" by Allan Peskin
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we’ll be speaking with Lloyd Pearson, the founder and creator of LWL (Live With Lloyd), based in Montclair, New Jersey. Lloyd has built a dynamic brand that celebrates creativity, community and connection. With a background in music, dance and fitness, he brings incredible energy and passion to everything he does.
In this conversation, we’ll hear Lloyd’s story and learn how his heart for helping others — and his desire to share the benefits of his own experiences and talents — has inspired the work he’s doing today with LWL.
Known for his positive personality and commitment to inspiring people of all ages to stay fit, engage with their community and simply have fun, Lloyd continues to foster a welcoming environment for those seeking a positive and uplifting atmosphere — one that encourages everyone to keep moving, stay healthy and live life to the fullest.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Lloyd Pearson / LWL and YHYS Podcast
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Lloyd Pearson:
IG: @lwl_brand
IG @livewithlloyd
Website: www.lloydpearsonfitness.com
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we are honored to have as our guest, my friend and former colleague, Patrick Walsh. Pat is not only an author, but also a prostate cancer survivor who has turned his personal journey into a mission of hope and advocacy.
In our conversation, Pat will share what it was like to first hear his diagnosis, the emotions of denial, the challenges of surgery and recovery and how he came to write his book, “Still Smiling: A Conversation with a Prostate Cancer Survivor”. We’ll also talk about the importance of early detection, support systems and addressing the psychological impact of the disease.
Since writing his book, Pat experienced a recurrence of prostate cancer and will share how he faced that difficult news and subsequent treatments with focus, determination and hope.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Pat Walsh
Thank you for supporting Your History Your Story!
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To purchase Pat Walsh's book: CLICK HERE
Welcome to Your History Your Story! Today, our guest is Leora O’Carroll—an Emmy-nominated writer, producer and accomplished musician. Leora is here to talk about the 2019 book she co-authored with her mother Maureen, titled: “Maureen O’Carroll: A Musical Memoir of an Irish Immigrant Childhood”.
The book shares the inspiring story of Leora’s mother, Maureen, who grew up in Australia as one of ten children of Irish immigrant parents who had fled their homeland in the mid 1920’s to escape possible reprisals due to their political activism.
Guided by the values of her parents in a household filled with resilience, community and a love of music, Maureen went on to become an acclaimed cellist, performing with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and other ensembles around the world. She was also a successful recording artist, soloist and teacher.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Leora O'Carroll
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To purchase Leora O"Carroll's book: CLICK HERE
Today on Your History Your Story, we’re joined by Samuel Marquis, acclaimed author of numerous American history and suspense books, including “Blackbeard: The Birth of America”. Samuel is here to talk about his latest work, “Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal”.
While many people remember William Kidd as one of history’s most notorious pirates, he was in fact a respected privateer, merchant and wartime hero who made his home in colonial New York City in the late 1600’s. Samuel—who happens to be Kidd’s nine-time great-grandson—shares the real story of a man far more complex than legend suggests and who ultimately became a scapegoat for powerful political forces.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Samuel Marquis
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To purchase "Captain Kidd": CLICK HERE
In 1944, Naples, Italy, was a city in turmoil.
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with award-winning author Keith Lowe about his powerful new book, “Naples 1944: The Devil’s Paradise at War”.
Lowe will recount the gripping World War II story of a city that endured relentless Allied bombing, rose up against a brutal German occupation, and then struggled through the severe hardships that followed its liberation by American and British forces—hardships that included starvation, widespread corruption and the dangers of the black market.
Stay with us for this remarkable story of resilience in the face of war and its aftermath.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Keith Lowe
Thank you for supporting Your History Your Story!
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To purchase "Naples": CLICK HERE
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we will be speaking with bestselling author Russell Shorto about his new book, “Taking Manhattan: The Extraordinary Events That Created New York and Shaped America”.
Drawing on meticulous research, Shorto uncovers the riveting story behind the 1664 English takeover of Dutch New Amsterdam. The transition occurred not through violent conquest, but through a remarkable series of negotiations between two visionary leaders. Their efforts laid the foundation for a multi-ethnic, capitalistic society—one that would come to define the spirit of New York City and eventually, the nation that formed around it.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Russell Shorto
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To purchase "Taking Manhattan": CLICK HERE
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we’re joined by Rick Malwitz—author, former journalist and devoted grandfather—as he shares the powerful and deeply moving story of his granddaughter Leah.
Shortly before her ninth birthday, Leah suffered a rare spinal cord stroke while playing in her basement. Within just 18 hours, she was rendered a quadriplegic. What followed was an incredibly challenging journey—one marked by uncertainty, fear and heartbreak—but also one filled with faith, love and community.
Rick tells how, through prayer, the unwavering support of neighbors and church families and the care of a dedicated medical team, Leah and her family found strength in the storm. Today, Leah is a vibrant and active teenager—a living example of resilience and hope.
This episode offers encouragement to anyone facing life’s toughest trials and reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we are never truly alone.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Rick Malwitz
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To purchase "Little Girl, Get Up": https://a.co/d/fpy7ftD
For more information about Liquid Church: Click Here
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we dive into a unique and often overlooked side of World War II through a captivating conversation with author Robert B. O’Connor. His historical fiction novel, “Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge”, centers on the fictional character Jim Tanzer—a professional dancer/performer who joins the Army and is assigned to Special Services, in a unit known as the “Morale Corps”.
Though Tanzer is fictional, the story is rooted in real events and inspired by true accounts of wartime performers, including well-known figures like Mickey Rooney. O’Connor draws on historical research and personal stories to bring authenticity to the novel, blending fact and fiction in a compelling way.
During our conversation, Robert shares how the book came to be, the real-life inspirations behind Tanzer’s journey and the important role of performance in lifting the spirits of troops near the front lines. If you’re interested in World War II history, behind-the-scenes stories of the battlefield or how the heart and dedication of a performer could uplift soldiers in their toughest moments—this episode is for you.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Robert B. O'Connor
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To purchase "Jeep Show":
Robert B. O'Connor website: www.jeepshowbook.com
Shields and Stripes website: www.shieldsandstripes.org
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we are pleased to welcome back award-winning author Stephen Puleo. Stephen joins us to discuss his powerful book, Dark Tide: The Great Boston Molasses Flood of 1919, which recounts the gripping and almost unbelievable story of the disaster which began when a 50-foot steel tank filled with 2.3 million gallons of molasses suddenly collapsed, unleashing a 15-foot-high wave that tore through Boston’s North End at 35 miles per hour, leaving death and destruction in its wake.
Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Stephen brings this bizarre historical event and its aftermath to life in a truly unforgettable way.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Stephen Puleo
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To purchase "Dark Tide":
Stephen Puleo website: www.stephenpuleo.com
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we’ll be joined by acclaimed author and journalist Helene Stapinski to discuss her 2001 national bestseller Five Finger Discount: A Crooked Family History. Helene will take us on a gripping, often hilarious and deeply personal journey through her childhood in Jersey City, New Jersey—a place that was steeped in corruption, grit and resilience.
During our conversation, Helene will share unforgettable stories of her colorful—and at times crooked—ancestors, along with the everyday struggles and triumphs of growing up in a city where survival often meant bending the rules. With warmth, humor and honesty, she’ll paint a vivid portrait of a family and community that will have you laughing, crying and eager to hear more!
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Helene Stapinski
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To purchase "Five Finger Discount":
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we’re joined by internationally bestselling author and historian Giles Milton to discuss his compelling new book, “The Stalin Affair: The Impossible Alliance That Won the War.”
Giles takes us deep into the high-stakes world of World War II diplomacy, where Allied leaders Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill were forced to navigate the unpredictable and often explosive temperament of Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin. He also shines a light on the lesser-known men and women who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to manage Stalin and hold the fragile alliance together.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Giles Milton
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To purchase "The Stalin Affair":
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we’re thrilled to welcome back a familiar and beloved guest—Marty Blumberg. Marty joined us previously to share stories from his books “My Brooklyn My Way” and “Going Back to Brooklyn” and we’re excited to have him with us again to talk about his newest work, “Brooklyn: The Borough of Dreams”.
In his latest book, Marty takes us on a poetic journey through his childhood in Brooklyn, New York during the mid-twentieth century. With heartfelt verse and vivid recollections, he captures the spirit of a time and place that, while long gone, still lives on in memory.
A master storyteller with an extraordinary gift for detail, Marty brings to life the people, places and events of his old neighborhood in a way that’s both nostalgic and deeply human. Get ready to be transported to a simpler time—where corner stores, stoop conversations, and tight-knit communities were the heart of everyday life.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Marty Blumberg
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To purchase "Brooklyn, Borough of Dreams":
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we are honored to be joined by Tweed Roosevelt, great-grandson of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt.
A businessman, college professor and Chairman of the Theodore Roosevelt Institute at Long Island University, Tweed is also a devoted family historian.
He'll share personal reflections on growing up as a Roosevelt and will bring to life fascinating stories about the many colorful and influential personalities that make up one of America's most iconic families.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Tweed Roosevelt
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LIU Roosevelt School: https://www.liu.edu/rooseveltschool
National Park Service: NPS.gov
In this episode of Your History Your Story, we're excited to welcome back award-winning author Buddy Levy to discuss his new book, Realm of Ice and Sky: Triumph, Tragedy, and History's Greatest Arctic Rescue. This suspenseful saga tells stories of exploration, human endurance and a daring rescue. It follows the men who risked their lives piloting experimental flying machines called airships to reach the top of the world and is filled with triumphs, tragedies and remarkable resilience!
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Buddy Levy
Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!
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For more information about Buddy Levy:
Other episodes of interest:
Buddy Levy S7 Ep03 Empire of Ice and Stone
On this episode of Your History Your Story, we are honored to have Billy Gray as our guest. Billy began his acting career at a young age, becoming widely recognized for his portrayal of Bud Anderson on the 1950s television classic “Father Knows Best.” He also made a significant impact with his role as Bobby Benson in the 1951 science fiction film “The Day the Earth Stood Still.”
Beyond acting, Billy pursued diverse interests, becoming a skilled speedway motorcyclist, inventor and businessman. This April, Billy will make his inaugural appearance at the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival in Marshfield, Missouri.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Billy Gray
Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!
YHYS Patreon: CLICK HERE
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For more information about Billy Gray:
Other story of interest:
S6 Ep18 Jim Thorpe: Legendary American Athlete
Welcome to Your History Your Story!
In this episode, we’re joined by author and educator Sarah Dixwell Brown to discuss her book Regicide in the Family: Finding John Dixwell. Sarah’s journey began with an ancient family heirloom that led her to uncover the dramatic life of her seven-times-great-grandfather, John Dixwell—one of the judges who sentenced King Charles I of England to death in 1649.
Forced to flee to the New World to escape execution himself when the monarchy was restored under King Charles II, Dixwell’s story is one of intrigue, survival and hidden history.
We hope you will enjoy this fascinating story!
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Dixie Brown
Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!
YHYS Patreon: CLICK HERE
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To purchase Regicide in the Family: www.Levellerspress.com
For more information about Sarah Dixwell Brown: www.sarahdixwellbrown.com
Few television shows have left as lasting an impression as Lassie, and few child actors became as beloved as Jon Provost, who played Timmy Martin from 1957 to 1964. But Jon’s career began even before Lassie, when, at just three years old, he starred alongside Jane Wyman in the 1953 movie “So Big”.
In this episode of Your History Your Story, Jon, who has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, takes us back to his Hollywood days, sharing memories of working with his Lassie co-stars June Lockhart, Hugh Reilly and, of course, America’s favorite dog, Lassie. Jon will also talk about working with legendary trainer Rudd Weatherwax and how those years helped instill in him a lifelong love for animals and a passion for helping others.
We’ll also hear about Jon’s life after Lassie and the great work he continues to do today. So, sit back and enjoy as we go behind the scenes of one of television’s most iconic shows with Jon Provost!
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Jon Provost
Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!
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Fun facts about this episode!
- Lassie, a female dog character, was actually only played by male dogs.
- Of the 249 episodes Jon Provost starred in on Lassie, only five episodes were filmed in color. The rest were all black and white.
In this episode of Your History Your Story, our guest is Mary Lou Falcone. Mary Lou is an internationally known classical music publicist and an advocate for Lewy Body Dementia awareness. Today we will be talking about her powerful memoir, “I Didn’t See It Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss, and Lewy Body Dementia.”
In her memoir, Mary Lou shares deeply personal stories, such as her father’s devastating stroke in the 1950s when she was just a child and her journey as caregiver to her husband and soulmate, Nicky Zann. A 1950s rock ‘n’ roll musician turned celebrated artist, Nicky passed away from Lewy Body Dementia in 2020. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about love, loss, and resilience.
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Mary Lou Falcone
Support Your History Your Story: Please consider becoming a Patron or making a donation via PayPal. - THANK YOU!!!
YHYS Patreon: CLICK HERE
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Lewy Body Dementia resources: LBDNY.org
To order "I Didn't See it Coming": MaryLouFalcone.com
Welcome to Your History Your Story! In this episode, we’re honored to speak with Dr. Mark Rutland, renowned author, speaker, and founder of the international ministry, Global Servants, which he established with his wife, Alison.
Dr. Rutland joins us to discuss his latest book, "Keep On Keeping On: How to Die Young as Old as Possible". The book highlights the transformative power of humor, forgiveness, gratitude, and generosity as we navigate the journey of aging. We hope you enjoy this uplifting and insightful conversation!
Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man
Photo(s): Courtesy of Dr. Mark Rutland
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For more information about this episode or to order any of Dr. Mark Rutland's books: