Featuring an engaging interview with Peter Cammann, author of "The Flies Are Too Damn Small: Adventures of a Deeply Flawed Angler." Cammann shares his journey from newspaper reporter to fishing writer and the evolution of his unique storytelling approach that embraces humor and self-deprecation. Discover Cammann's philosophies on fishing, his humorous observations on anglers and the pursuit of fish, and the art of balancing the joy of sharing fishing experiences with the responsibility of conservation. You'll truly appreciate the wit and wisdom in Cammann's collection of fishing tales.

Dive into the captivating story of the "Star Wars" radio dramas, exploring their creation and the significant impact they had on NPR. Authors Maria Jose Tenuto and John Tenuto highlight the crucial role of writer Brian Daley, whose talent and connection to the "Star Wars" universe were instrumental in the success of these audio productions. Find out how the radio dramas masterfully translated the visual experience of the films into an audio format, showcasing the challenges and triumphs involved in their production, including securing rights and the artistry of sound design. You'll appreciate the enduring legacy of these unique "Star Wars" adaptations and their profound influence on NPR's trajectory.

Author Donna Tesiero shares insights into her book, "A Revolutionary Woman: Elizabeth Freeman and the Abolition of Slavery in the North." Tesiero details Freeman's journey from enslavement in New York to her pivotal role in abolishing slavery in Massachusetts through a groundbreaking court case. The conversation explores the stark differences in the treatment of slaves between New York and Massachusetts in the 18th century, the abuses Freeman endured, and her extraordinary resilience and influence. Learn how Freeman's courage and moral strength not only secured her own freedom but also left an enduring legacy on those around her, including the renowned novelist Catharine Maria Sedgwick. This is the inspiring story of a woman whose fight for freedom helped shape the course of history.

In this compelling episode, author Susan Herrick shares her deeply personal journey and insights from her book, "Slow Dancing with the Devil: A Son's Substance Use Disorder, A Mother's Anguish." Susan bravely discusses her son Luke's battle with substance use disorder, stemming from prescribed pain medication after a severe accident, and the lack of understanding and support they faced. This episode will leave you with a powerful call for empathy, understanding, and systemic change in the face of the devastating impact of substance use disorder.

In this episode, Barry David Horowitz and Jason Norman discuss their 2024 book, 'Wrestling Is My Gimmick: My Life on the Wrong Side of the Three-Count.' They delve into the book's creation and share entertaining stories from Barry's career as a professional wrestler, particularly his experiences as a 'jobber.'"

In this episode, Mark Perzel speaks with J.C. Bernthal, the author of "Agatha Christie: A Companion to the Mystery Fiction," a comprehensive guide to the life and work of the world's most famous mystery writer. In this interview, Bernthal discusses Agatha Christie's life, work, and her enduring popularity. He shares his experiences as a Christie fan, how he came to write the book as well as the challenges of creating a definitive guide for such an incredibly prolific writer. 

This episode features a conversation with Elizabeth Blackstock and Alanis King about their book, "Racing with Rich Energy." Delve into the wild world of Formula One racing and its intersection with a controversial energy drink company. The authors, drawn to motorsports through vastly different paths, share how they uncovered the questionable dealings of Rich Energy's enigmatic CEO, William Storey, and his audacious attempt to disrupt the established Formula One order. Hear the financial intricacies of the sport, the behind-the-scenes drama, and the challenges of investigating a story filled with evasive characters and disappearing evidence.

This episode features a conversation with David McKay and Kate St. Vincent Vogl about the book, "Iron Horse Cowgirls," which chronicles the lives of Louise Scherbyn and other women motorcyclists in the 1930s and 40s. Find out how the discovery of a collection of photographs inspired the book and shaped the narrative. McKay and Vogl detail Scherbyn's influence on women's motorcycling, including her efforts to establish clubs and advocate for women's rights within the sport. Hear the challenges these women faced, the evolution of women's motorcycle organizations, and the broader societal context of their experiences. 

In this episode, host Mark Perzel interviews Phil Roycraft, author of The Plot to Perpetuate Slavery: How George McClellan, Southern Spies and a Confidence Man Nearly Derailed Emancipation. Roycraft reveals how General McClellan, despite leading the Union Army, secretly worked to undermine President Lincoln's efforts to end slavery. The conversation explores McClellan's covert operations, the role of spies and informants, and the political intrigue that nearly derailed the Emancipation Proclamation. Roycraft discusses his in-depth research, uncovering a hidden history of deception and political maneuvering during the Civil War.

This episode features Douglas J. Butler, author of "North Carolina Civil War Monuments: An Illustrated History." Butler discusses the origins, evolution, and significance of Civil War monuments across North Carolina, providing insights into the commemorative efforts that began immediately after the war. He delves into the roles of groups like the Ladies Memorial Associations and the United Daughters of the Confederacy in erecting these monuments, highlighting the grief, honor, and historical memory they represent.

This episode features a fascinating conversation with Tom Jerman, author of "Santa Claus Worldwide: A History of St. Nicholas and Other Holiday Gift-Bringers." The discussion explores the origins and evolution of Santa, touching on the traditions and diverse figures that have inspired the iconic holiday character. Jerman shares insights into ancient midwinter celebrations, the transformation of St. Nicholas into Santa, and the cultural variations of gift-bringers around the world.

In this episode, Mark welcomes dog historian Brian Patrick Duggan to discuss his journey writing about dogs and his role as editor for the McFarland series, Dogs in Our World, a scholarly book series devoted to the exploration of the unique relationship between dogs and humankind in history, society and culture. From captivating tales of Salukis in the Middle East to the stories of therapy, military, and police dogs, Duggan shares insights into the growing collection of 20+ titles. A must listen for dog lovers!

Dive into the magic behind "How to Train Your Dragon!" This episode features Erik Heine, author of "The Music of How to Train Your Dragon Trilogy." He shares insights on composer John Powell's dynamic themes and how they shape unforgettable moments across the films. Learn about the craft of film scoring, the unique instruments used, and how musical motifs connect scenes and emotions. If you’re a fan of film music or want to experience these movies in a whole new way, tune in and let Erik guide you through the dragon-filled skies of cinematic sound!

This episode features a discussion with James Arthur Anderson, the author of Methods and Meaning in the Novels of Stephen King. Anderson shares insights into Stephen King’s storytelling, exploring how he taps into universal human emotions, creating suspense and weaving deeper meanings into his horror novels. Anderson also highlights his own approach in writing the book, making academic analysis accessible to the average reader while providing background, narrative techniques, and fascinating quotes from each of King's novels.

In this episode, Scott Drebit, author of "A Cut Below: A Celebration of B Horror Movies, 1950s-1980s," shares his lifelong fascination with horror films. He recalls his early exposure to the genre, starting at age six with the film "Burnt Offerings," and how the rise of video stores in the 80s revolutionized his passion for horror. B movies—those often underappreciated, low-budget gems—captured Scott's heart and imagination with their sincerity and creativity, even when resources were limited. He shares the personal process of selecting the 63 films featured in his book, the joys of sharing obscure horror titles with a new generation, and the balance between educating and entertaining readers.

Celebrating one of McFarland's local Ashe County authors, Mark interviews retired nurseryman and former volunteer steward of Bluff Nature Preserve, Doug Munroe. Doug is a tree hugger through and through and his love for them is contagious. Listen to his stories of trees unique to the Appalachians and how they impact the history and future of the area.

In this episode, Rosilyn Stearnes-Brown, the daughter of baseball hall-of-famer Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, shares heartfelt stories about her father and her journey in writing a memoir to honor his life, his humble nature, and his dedication to family and education. She reflects on his career in the Negro Leagues, the challenges he faced during the Jim Crow era, and the legacy he left behind.

Clint Lanier and Mark Perzel discuss the life and experiences of Ted Mack, focusing on his journey from a sharecropper's son in Alabama to a social worker and civil rights activist in Milwaukee, and eventually to the business world where he pursued his dream of owning a brewery. They highlight Ted's involvement in the civil rights movement, his fight against segregation, and his entrepreneurial struggles, particularly with the challenges he faced as the owner of People's Beer, a minority-owned business as well as the systemic barriers he encountered, including government corruption and a lack of support from his own community.

Mark interviews Lloyd Johnson and Miles Wolff, co-authors of "The Encyclopedia of Minor League Baseball," which documents minor league baseball's historical and statistical aspects. Lloyd and Miles discuss the evolution of the sport, the significance of the 1939 season for Tommy Lasorda, and the broader historical context of minor leagues in the U.S. They highlight the pivotal role of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) in compiling baseball statistics and stories, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on baseball and its future. Join Mark, Lloyd, and Miles as they celebrate minor league baseball's rich history and ongoing significance in American culture.