This American President
This American President explores the lives and legacies of U.S. presidents through long-form stories and interviews. Hosted by Richard Lim and produced by Michael Neal, the podcast challenges listeners to rethink American history. Each episode delves into presidential history with engaging narratives and expert insights.
Episodes
How James Garfield Revolutionized Presidential Campaigning (Jennifer Bennie from Walk With History)
James A. Garfield is one of America’s most forgotten presidents. Yet behind his tragically brief presidency was one of the most brilliant and remarkable men ever to occupy the White House. Born into poverty, Garfield rose to become a scholar, Civil War general, congressman, and president. Along the way, he helped revolutionize American politics with his pioneering “front porch campaign
The Presidentess: How Julia Tyler Wielded the Power of a First Lady
She survived a deadly explosion aboard a presidential warship, married the president of the United States, transformed herself into one of Washington’s most glamorous and politically savvy first ladies—and eventually sided with the Confederacy during the Civil War. In this episode, historian Christopher J. Leahy discusses his new book, Presidentess: The Life of First Lady Julia Gardine
Did Abraham Lincoln Have a Speechwriter? The Untold Story of John Hay
The Gettysburg Address may be the most famous speech in American history—but did Abraham Lincoln have a speechwriter? In this episode, Jan Cigliano Hartman discusses her new book, John Hay: The Voice Behind the Legendary Oratory of Abraham Lincoln, arguing that Lincoln's trusted private secretary, John Hay, played a much greater role in developing the president's legendary speeches than most
What It Was Like Working for Lyndon B. Johnson, with Tom Johnson
He has been called one of the most consequential presidents in American history—and one of the most complicated. He was described as crude and compassionate, domineering and deeply empathetic. A political force of nature, Lyndon B. Johnson possessed a legendary ability to persuade, cajole, and outmaneuver nearly anyone in his path. He shepherded landmark civil rights legislation through Cong
George Washington and the Road to One Nation, with Brady Crytzer
In the early years of the republic, the United States was a nation in name—but not always in practice. Vast distances and rugged mountains threatened to pull the young country apart. In this episode, historian Brady Crytzer discusses his new book, The National Road, and explains how George Washington's vision of binding the states together through internal improvements ultimately became Amer
Inside The Brink of War: Reagan, Gorbachev, and the Summit That Changed History
Two leaders. Thousands of nuclear weapons. One meeting that changed everything. In this episode, Michael Russell Gunn, director of Brink of War, explores the extraordinary Reykjavík Summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev—a meeting many believe paved the way for the end of the Cold War. We discuss Reagan's strategy of pursuing a nuclear-free world while preserving America's
America at 250: Rediscovering the Revolution, with Eric Metaxas
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, #1 New York Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas—author of Bonhoeffer, Martin Luther, and Amazing Grace—joins us to discuss his new book, Revolution: The Birth of the Greatest Nation in the History of the World. Together, we revisit the famous—and often forgotten—heroes of the American Revolution and explore why Metaxas
America at 250: A Celebration of the American Story, with Jane Hampton Cook
As America approaches its 250th birthday, bestselling author and historian Jane Hampton Cook joins us for a conversation about the people, moments, and ideas that make the American story so remarkable. We discuss why America remains a nation worth celebrating, the most underrated Americans in our history, the historical events we'd most like to witness firsthand, and the era that best represents A
George H.W. Bush in an Anti-Establishment Age, with Laurence Jurdem
We live in an era defined by distrust of institutions, political outsiders, and anti-establishment movements. What can the life of perhaps the ultimate establishment president tell us about America today? In this episode, I speak with historian Laurence Jurdem about his new book, 41: George H.W. Bush and the End of the American Establishment. We discuss Bush’s rise through the political, dip
What Did Queen Elizabeth II Really Think of America’s Presidents? with Susan Page
Did you know that a young Princess Elizabeth once spent time with a twenty-something John F. Kennedy? Or that Richard Nixon hoped to marry one of his daughters into the British royal family? In this episode, I speak with bestselling author Susan Page about her new book, The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History. We explore Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable relationships
Young Washington: The Untold Story of America’s Founding Hero, with Benton Crane
Before he became the indispensable man of the American founding, George Washington was a young officer fighting for survival in the wilderness, battling the French, navigating deadly frontier politics, and learning the hard lessons that would forge his character. In this episode, I speak with Benton Crane, co-founder of Angel Studios, about Young Washington, a major new film focused on George Wash
At the Brink: Presidents, Nuclear Weapons, and the Fate of the World Part 2, with Dr. Anthony Eames
How should Americans evaluate presidential candidates when it comes to nuclear weapons? In this episode, Dr. Anthony Eames, Director of Scholarly Initiatives at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, returns to the show to examine how presidents from Ronald Reagan to Donald Trump have approached nuclear weapons, deterrence, and arms control. We discuss the end of the Cold War, th
The First Ladies: Hidden Power in the White House, with Anita McBride
What does the First Lady actually do—and how did the role become so influential? Our host Richard Lim sits down with Anita McBride—former Chief of Staff to Laura Bush, Executive-in-Residence at American University’s School of Public Affairs, and Director of the First Ladies Initiative—to break down the evolution of one of the most visible roles in American life. From Dolley
At the Brink: Presidents, Nuclear Weapons, and the Fate of the World Part 1, with Dr. Anthony Eames
How have American presidents managed the most destructive weapons ever created? In this episode, Dr. Anthony Eames, Director of Scholarly Initiatives at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, joins me to examine the history of nuclear weapons through the decisions of U.S. presidents—from Truman and Eisenhower to Reagan and beyond. We discuss the logic of deterrence, the ris
In Pursuit: Rediscovering America Through Its Presidents, with Dr. Colleen J. Shogan
What if today’s leading voices took a fresh look at the lives of America’s presidents and first ladies—searching for lessons that still speak to the challenges we face now? That’s the idea behind In Pursuit, a new initiative to discover history’s greatest lessons by revisiting America’s first 250 years and distilling insights that can inspire and inform our futu
America's Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick, with Bob Crawford
What American president would take a demotion and become a congressman after leaving the White House? The answer is John Quincy Adams. In this episode, we interview Bob Crawford, bassist for The Avett Brothers, about his new book on America's sixth president. America's Founding Son: John Quincy Adams, from President to Political Maverick https://www.amazon.com/Americas-Founding-Son-President
Trump Bombs Iran: The Presidential Decisions That Led to This Moment, with Randall Fowler
President Trump has ordered strikes on Iran. In this episode, scholar Randall Fowler discusses how we got to this critical moment. He examines the history of U.S.–Iran relations — from the 1953 coup and the 1979 Islamic Revolution to sanctions, nuclear diplomacy, and today’s military action — with a focus on how each American president shaped the path to this moment. More T
The Capture of Maduro: a Venezuelan Refugee Speaks Out
On January 3, 2026, the United States captured Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, ending his corrupt reign over the South American country. What led President Donald Trump to order this dramatic intervention? Franklin Camargo is Venezuelan-American political commentator who fled his native country in 2019. In this episode, Camargo discusses his remarkable journey, the capture of Madur
The Truth About Franklin D. Roosevelt
FDR is often ranked by historians as one of the two or three greatest presidents. In recent years, he sometimes lands at the top spot. In this episode, Professor David T. Beito explores whether that ranking is deserved. FDR: A NEW POLITICAL LIFE https://www.amazon.com/FDR-Political-David-T-Beito/dp/1637700695 JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.
The Hair-Raising History of the American Presidency, with Theodore Pappas
If J.D. Vance gets elected to the White House in 2028, he will be the first president in over a century to have facial hair. In this episode, Theodore Pappas discusses the surprising history of hair and the American presidency. COMBING THROUGH THE WHITE HOUSE: HAIR AND ITS SHOCKING IMPACT ON THE POLITICS, PRIVATE LIVES, AND LEGACIES OF THE PRESIDENTS https://www.amazon.com/Combing-Through-Wh
George Washington Book Update
Richard shares an update on his book project. https://www.richardmlim.com JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpresidentCREDITSHost: Richard LimProducer: Michael NealArtist: Nip Rogers, www.NipRogers.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Confronting the Most Evil People in History, with Bill O'Reilly
Why is there evil in the world? How do you stop it? In this episode, No Spin News host Bill O'Reilly discusses his new book about the most evil people in all of history. CONFRONTING EVIL: ASSESSING THE WORST OF THE WORST https://www.amazon.com/Confronting-Evil-Assessing-Worst/dp/1250374049/ref=sr_1_3 JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisam
Debunking the Biggest Presidential Myths, with Larry Schweikart
Some of the biggest myths in American history center around the lives of the presidents. In this episode, historian Larry Schweikart tackles some of the biggest misperceptions about America's chief executives. A PATRIOT'S HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES: FROM COLUMBUS'S GREAT DISCOVERY TO AMERICA'S AGE OF ENTITLEMENT https://www.amazon.com/Patriots-History-United-States-Entitlement/dp/1595231153/ref=
Theodore Roosevelt's Mission to Rescue the American Spirit, with Bret Baier
“His single minded mission was to elevate the United States as a leading world power… he was dedicated to the ideal of American greatness.” That is how today's guest, Bret Baier, describes President Theodore Roosevelt in his new book, To Rescue the American Spirit. In this episode, we interview Mr. Baier on how Roosevelt shaped the American Century. TO RESCUE THE AMERICAN SPIRIT
A Conversation with Allen Estrin about Charlie Kirk and The Honest Book of Presidents
In this episode, we interview Allen Estrin, the co-founder and executive director of Prager University, about the life of Charlie Kirk and about Estrin's new book on the presidents of the United States. THE HONEST BOOK OF PRESIDENTS: THE MEN WHO SHAPED AMERICA https://www.amazon.com/Honest-Book-Presidents-Prager-University/dp/0063430274/ JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/T
Camp David: The Most Important Vacation Spot in the World, with Charles Ferguson
It's both the famous vacation spot in the world, and the site of some of the most earthshaking events in modern history. It is Camp David. On this episode, former chaplain and historian at Camp David, Charles Ferguson, explains what it's like to be in his iconic presidential retreat. PRESIDENTIAL SECLUSION: THE POWER OF CAMP DAVID https://www.amazon.com/Presidential-Seclusion-Power-Camp-David/dp/1
America's Fallen Savior Part 4 | The Legacy of Herbert Hoover
He was the brilliant engineer and humanitarian who saved millions of lives during World War I, revolutionized the American economy, and was elected the 31st president of the United States. And yet, this same man left office with his reputation in shambles, blamed for his country's stunning decline during the Great Depression. In this episode, we discuss history's verdict on Herbert Hoover.JOIN PRE
The Presidents and the Bible, with Carl J. Richard
Almost every American president has sworn on the Bible to faithfully execute their duties and uphold the Constitution. But what did our presidents actually think about the Bible? Historian Carl J. Richard has just written a book on that very subject. He joins us to discuss the impact of history's most famous book on history's most powerful office. SO HELP US, GOD: AMERICAN PRESIDENTS AND THE
America's Fallen Savior Part 3 | Herbert Hoover vs. the Great Depression
Herbert Hoover was a revolutionary figure in American politics -- for many, he represented a new era, in which experts and engineers would dominate the highest levels of government. Upon Hoover's election to the presidency in 1928, millions of Americans were thrilled at the prospect of the "Great Engineer" engineering solutions to the nation's problems. Those hopes, however, would be dashed by the
Presidents v. World, with Jonathan Stokes
April 2025 will be remembered as the month when President Donald Trump declared war against the entire world -- a trade war to be exact. Whatever one thinks about his decision, it was a bold move that few chief executives would be willing to do. But he's far from the only president to take such drastic action. In this episode, attorney Jonathan Stokes and I discuss five other presidents who, simil
Julia Sand and Chester Arthur: How A Random American Woman Influenced A President, with Destry Edwards
Few presidents entered office more distrusted than America's 21st chief executive, Chester A. Arthur. But one American, Julia Sand, believed that he could rise to the occasion. What ensued was one of the most surprising and unlikely episodes in presidential history -- one that is the basis of a new documentary from the Competitive Enterprise Institute, titled Dear Mr. President: The Letters of Jul
Why the 2024 Presidential Election Was the Wildest Election of Our Lifetimes, with Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes
A president in cognitive decline. A beleaguered Vice President. A party in shambles. An ex-president on the verge of the greatest political comeback in American history. And a lot of cat and dog memes. The 2024 presidential election featured all this, and more. In this episode, Jonathan Allen and Amie Parnes take us behind the scenes in some of the biggest moments of America's craziest election.&n
America's Fallen Savior Part 2 | Herbert Hoover Troubleshoots America
Herbert Hoover emerged from World War I with a reputation as the greatest living humanitarian. He would spend the 1920s applying his brilliance and organizational abilities to transforming the American economy. In this episode, we cover Hoover's superhuman efforts during the Roaring Twenties.JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpre
Clash of the Titans: American Presidents vs America's CEOs, with Tevi Troy
Few people are more powerful than the president of the United States and the CEOs of America's biggest companies. In this episode, presidential historian Tevi Troy explains what happens when they go head-to-head. THE POWER AND THE MONEY: THE EPIC CLASHES BETWEEN COMMANDERS IN CHIEF AND TITANS OF INDUSTRY https://www.amazon.com/Power-Money-Clashes-Commanders-Industry/dp/1684515408/ref=tmm_hrd
The JFK Assassination That You've Never Heard Of, with Brad Meltzer
Everyone who loves history knows that John F. Kennedy was assassinated on November 22, 1963. Few, however, know that he was almost assassinated three years earlier. In this episode, bestselling historian Brad Meltzer discusses what he uncovered when investigating this forgotten moment in American history. THE JFK CONSPIRACY: THE SECRET PLOT TO KILL KENNEDY―AND WHY IT FAILED https://www.amazo
America's Fallen Savior Part 1 | The Rise of Herbert Hoover
His name is synonymous with failure and depression, and yet Herbert Hoover was one of the most brilliant and accomplished Americans of all time. In this episode, we cover Hoover's unlikely rise from orphan to international statesman.JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpresidentFacebook: facebook.com/ThisAmerPresInstagram: instagra
How America's Greatest Presidents Met Their Moment, with William Haldeman
The presidency is perhaps the greatest test of leadership in the world. In this episode, William Haldeman discusses what we can learn about leadership from America's most iconic presidents. Meeting the Moment: Inspiring Presidential Leadership That Transformed America https://www.amazon.com/Meeting-Moment-Presidential-Transformed-Contemporary/dp/B0D34DMRSR/ JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/
Two Presidents At War: Abraham Lincoln vs. Jefferson Davis, with Nigel Hamilton
The Civil War has often been portrayed as a conflict between Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee. Nigel Hamilton offers a new perspective: Lincoln vs. Davis. In this episode, Nigel explains this epic clash between two American giants. Lincoln vs. Davis: The War of the Presidents https://www.amazon.com/dp/031656463X?ref_=ast_author_ofdp_rw JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/
Why Woodrow Wilson hated women's suffrage, with Christopher Cox
Woodrow Wilson might have been a progressive, but he was not happy about the progress women made in securing the right to vote. In this episode, former congressman and SEC Chairman Christopher Cox explains why. Woodrow Wilson: The Light Withdrawn https://www.amazon.com/Woodrow-Wilson-Withdrawn-Christopher-Cox/dp/166801078X?ref_=ast_author_dp JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.
How Harry Truman's best friend became a big problem, with John Robert Greene
What would you do if your best friend became president of the United States? That's exactly what happened to Harry H. Vaughan. In this episode, John Robert Greene talks about how Vaughan took advantage of that opportunity. LITTLE HELPERS: HARRY VAUGHAN, HIS CRONIES, AND CORRUPTION IN THE TRUMAN ADMINISTRATION https://www.amazon.com/Little-Helpers-Vaughan-Corruption-Administration/dp/0826223168 JO
Kickstarter Update and Thoughts on the 2024 Presidential Election
Our host Richard Lim discusses the latest about the Kickstarter for his George Washington book project and reflects on Donald Trump's historic triumph in the 2024 presidential election. http://richardmlim.com JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpresidentCREDITSHost: Richard LimProducer: Michael NealArtist: Nip Rogers, www.NipRoge
What Gen Z-ers Know About the Presidents, with Reed Elliotte
Reed Elliotte has survived cancer, befriended three former presidents, become a presidential historian, is a future presidential candidate, and has been a guest on Ellen and Dr. Phil. Oh, and he's also just 14 years old. In this episode, we chat with Reed about his amazing life and his love of presidential history. JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.
The Presidents of the Roaring Twenties Part 4: The Legacy of Harding and Coolidge
What impact did presidents Warren G. Harding and Calvin Coolidge have on the United States? In this episode, we will explore how these two unsung figures changed the course of American history. JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpresidentFacebook: facebook.com/ThisAmerPresInstagram: instagram.com/thisamericanpresidentTwitter: twi
Confronting the Presidents, with Bill O'Reilly
Bill O'Reilly knows several presidents personally and has spent years researching their lives and legacies. He and his co-author, Martin Dugard, have just published a book assessing every president from George Washington to Joe Biden. In this episode, we discuss his new book and his insights about America's chief executives. CONFRONTING THE PRESIDENTS: NO SPIN ASSESSMENTS FROM WASHINGTON TO BIDEN
How Winston Churchill Saved the World, with Martin Dugard
We are constantly told that we face "existential threats." Well, there once was a time when that was literally true -- and the man who stopped it was Winston Churchill. In this episode Martin Dugard, co-author of the mega-million selling Killing series, discusses how Churchill saved the world. TAKING LONDON: WINSTON CHURCHILL AND THE FIGHT TO SAVE CIVILIZATION https://www.amazon.com/Taking-London
The Presidents of the Roaring Twenties Part 3 | The Rise of Calvin Coolidge
Legend has it that Calvin Coolidge slept 11 hours a day during his presidency. Scholars today often mock Coolidge for being a passive, ineffective leader. Yet, the fact remains that this reticent man from New England rose to become one of America's most popular presidents during one of the nation's most dynamic eras. In this episode, we examine Calvin Coolidge unlikely rise as the 30th president o
Special Announcement Episode: My New Project, titled "Refusing A Crown"
Our host Richard Lim has a special announcement about a new project he's been working on. Here's a hint: it's about George Washington. Listen to learn the details and about how you can get involved.https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/georgewashingtonbook/refusing-a-crown-how-george-washington-changed-everythingJOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linkt
How Grover Cleveland Served Two Non-Consecutive Terms, with Bruce Carlson
Grover Cleveland is the only president (thus far) to have lost his re-election bid but subsequently win back the White House. Donald Trump is now trying to pull off this rare feat. In this episode, fellow podcaster Bruce Carlson discusses Cleveland's remarkable story.MY HISTORY CAN BEAT UP YOUR POLITICS PODCAST WITH BRUCE CARLSONhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-history-can-beat-up-your-pol
Preserving the People's House, with Stewart D. McLaurin
The White House is the most famous home in the world, and the White House Historical Association (WHHA) is tasked with preserving its history for the benefit of all Americans. The men and women of the WHHA ensure that the White House and its history are accessible to the public. In this episode, WHHA President Stewart D. McLaurin shares the countless ways that the Association serves the American p
What Happens When the President is Incapacitated? Roy Brownell on the 25th Amendment
Joe Biden's debate performance on June 27, 2024 has left many Americans concerned about his advanced age and his ability to perform his duties as president. What does the Constitution say about this issue? In this episode, legal scholar Roy Brownell discusses the 25th amendment and the history of presidential incapacitation. https://roybrownell.comJOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at ww
My Thoughts on the Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump
My thoughts on the stunning attempted assassination of former President Trump.JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/month at www.bit.ly/TAPpremiumFOLLOW USwww.linktr.ee/thisamericanpresidentCREDITSHost: Richard LimProducer: Michael NealArtist: Nip Rogers, www.NipRogers.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
REBROADCAST | Ronald Reagan: The Voice in the Wilderness Part 3
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of his passing, we are rebroadcasting our series on President Ronald Reagan________After entering office in 1981, Ronald Reagan insisted he wanted to reduce the threat of nuclear weapons. His critics scoffed at him, not believing he was sincere. In 1987, he stunned them by signing the INF Treaty with the Soviets, eliminating an entire class of nuclear weapons. I
The Worst Historical Movie Ever? with William Nunez
In 1956, a movie about the life of Genghis Khan was released. The actor who played Genghis Khan? Wait for it....John Wayne!And the result was... well... even worse than anyone could have imagined. The Conqueror is widely considered one of the worst films ever made and the decision to cast virtually all white actors and actresses has not aged well. This movie is so bad... it's BAD.Filmmaker William
REBROADCAST | Ronald Reagan: The Voice in the Wilderness Part 2
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of his passing, we are rebroadcasting our series on President Ronald Reagan________When Ronald Reagan was elected president, his critics worried he would escalate the Cold War--maybe even provoke World War III. Reagan, however, was planning the exact opposite: yes, he wanted to defeat the Soviet Union but he had an audacious plan to work with Soviet leader Mikha
REBROADCAST | Ronald Reagan: The Voice in the Wilderness Part 1
To commemorate the 20th anniversary of his passing, we are rebroadcasting our series on President Ronald Reagan_________“Ronald Reagan, the actor?!” exclaimed Doc Brown in the film Back to the Future when he learned that Ronald Reagan was President of the United States in 1985. Indeed, to many, the idea of the former B-movie actor as leader of the free world was an absurd idea. Few, however, would
The Vice Presidency: America's Strangest Office, with Roy E. Brownell II
The vice presidency of the United States is not an easy job. As its first occupant, John Adams reportedly said, "I am nothing, but I may be everything." Another vice president, John Nance Garner, was even more blunt, saying the office was "not worth a bucket of warm spit" (and that's the clean version of what he said). Even worse, the Constitution doesn't give the vice president much to do. So why
Who Were the Founding Fathers' Heroes? with Jeffrey Rosen
Americans often revere the Founding Fathers as heroes, but who were the Founding Fathers' heroes? In this episode, we interview Jeffrey Rosen about how men like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson studied, imitated, and took inspiration from the figures of antiquity. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS: HOW CLASSICAL WRITERS ON VIRTUE INSPIRED THE LIVES OF THE FOUNDERS AND DEFINED AMER
Key Battles of American History: The Sioux Wars Preview
War, Conflict, Victory & Defeat. These are all aspects of life that some may have to face. This was true for the various groups of the Sioux Tribes. On today's bonus episode from "Key Battles of American History" join host James Early as he discusses the multiple wars that took place between 1862-1890, collectively known as "The Sioux Wars"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Leadership Lessons From Our Top Presidents, with Talmage Boston
There is no greater test of leadership in the world today than the presidency of the United States. In this episode, we interview Talmage Boston about leadership lessons we can learn from America's greatest chief executives.HOW THE BEST DID IT: LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM OUR TOP PRESIDENTShttps://www.amazon.com/How-Best-Did-Leadership-Presidents/dp/1637586973/JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for only $5/mo
What Did Abraham Lincoln Believe? with Allen Guelzo
Abraham Lincoln once described democracy as "government of the people, by the people, for the people," but what exactly did that mean? In this episode, renowned Lincoln scholar Allen Guelzo explains our 16th president's vision for America.OUR ANCIENT FAITH: LINCOLN, DEMOCRACY, AND THE AMERICAN EXPERIMENT https://www.amazon.com/Our-Ancient-Faith-Democracy-Experiment/dp/0593534441/JOIN PREMIUMListen
The Presidents of the Roaring Twenties Part 2 | The Triumph and Tragedy of Warren G. Harding
Few presidents have been as mocked and vilified as Warren G. Harding, but few have examined the difficult circumstances he faced upon entering office -- an economic depression, social unrest, and violent extremism. During the 1920 election, Harding had pledged to address these problems and lead America into an era of "normalcy." In this episode, we examine how successful was in fulfilling that pro
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Most Controversial President of All Time? with David T. Beito
Franklin Roosevelt, the only president to serve more than two terms, is one of the most popular and beloved leaders in American history. At the same time, he is also one of the most hated. Critics often point to what they consider to be his many violations of Americans' civil liberties. In this episode, we interview David Beito about some of FDR's most controversial decisions.THE NEW DEAL’S WAR ON
The Presidential Express: The History of Trains in American Politics, with Edward Segal
There are few things more nostalgic than a train. Politicians know this all too well, so it's no surprise that trains have played a prominent role in American political campaigns. In this episode, Edward Segal explains how presidents have used trains to connect with the American people. WHISTLE-STOP POLITICS: CAMPAIGN TRAINS AND THE REPORTERS WHO COVERED THEMhttps://www.amazon.com/Whistle-Stop-Pol
Why America Could Have a Presidential Succession Crisis, with Roy E. Brownell II
America has an unmatched record when it comes to the peaceful transfer of power. According to legal scholar Roy E. Brownell II, however, our country is not that far off from a presidential succession crisis. In this episode, Mr. Brownell covers the history of presidential succession and the flaws in the current system.HOW TO AVOID A PRESIDENTIAL SUCCESSION NIGHTMAREhttps://www.wsj.com/articles/how
Who Was the Real Ulysses S. Grant? with John Reeves
To his critics, he was a drunkard and a butcher who failed his way upward in life. To his admirers, he was nothing less than the savior of the nation. Few presidents have had their reputation fluctuate so dramatically as Ulysses S. Grant. In this episode, we interview author John Reeves to find out who the real Ulysses Grant was. SOLDIER OF DESTINY: SLAVERY, SECESSION, AND THE REDEMPTION OF ULYSSE
The Presidents of the Roaring Twenties Part 1 | The Rise of Warren G. Harding
In 1920, Warren G. Harding was elected president in one of the greatest landslides in American history. His margin of victory* over his opponent James Cox exceeded those of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama. In this episode, we explore how this former newspaperman rose to become a popular figure and the 29th president of the United States
Theodore Roosevelt: America's First Modern President, with Michael Patrick Cullinane
Theodore Roosevelt is often described as America's first modern president, setting a standard by which future presidents would be judged. In this episode, we interview historian Michael Patrick Cullinane about how Roosevelt transformed both the nation and its highest office. REMEMBERING THEODORE ROOSEVELT: REMINISCENCES OF HIS CONTEMPORARIEShttps://www.amazon.com/Remembering-Theodore-Roosevelt-Rem
History of the Papacy Preview: The Septuagint with Steve Guerra and Garry Stevens
Original Title: The Septuagint – It Really is Greek to MeOriginal Release Date: 6/30/2023Transcript URL: https://share.descript.com/view/S74PWXbhjWZ Description: The Septuagint is the most important translations you’ve never heard of. In this episode of the 10th Anniversary of the History of the Papacy series, Steve Guerra and his special guest Garry Stevens lay out the basics of the Septuagint tr
Rediscovering Jimmy Carter, with Jonathan Alter
Jimmy Carter has lived a remarkable life. He was on his way to becoming a Navy admiral, but instead became a peanut farmer. He had one of the unlikeliest rises to the presidency, but saw his popularity plummet and was voted out of office in a landslide. He then had one of the most active retirements in American presidential history. In this episode, we interview Jonathan Alter about the surprising
How Ulysses S. Grant Destroyed the Ku Klux Klan, with Fergus M. Bordewich
Ulysses S. Grant is famous as the victorious general of the Civil War, but as president, he successfully waged another war -- one to defeat the infamous Ku Klux Klan. In this episode, we interview Fergus M. Bordewich about this forgotten chapter in American history.KLAN WAR: ULYSSES S. GRANT AND THE BATTLE TO SAVE RECONSTRUCTIONhttps://www.amazon.com/Klan-War-Ulysses-Battle-Reconstruction/dp/05933
The Progressive Presidents Part 5 | Roosevelt, Wilson, and the Legacy of the Progressive Movement
When Woodrow Wilson left office in 1921, the first era of American progressivism came to an end. By then, however, he and former President Theodore Roosevelt had forever altered the course of American history. They had transformed the federal government and America's role in the world. In this episode, we examine their legacies and how they impact our nation today. JOIN PREMIUMListen ad-free for o
What JFK Would Have Done in Vietnam Had He Survived, with Marc J. Selverstone
It's one of the great what-ifs in American history: had President John F. Kennedy not been assassinated, would he have escalated involvement in Vietnam in the same way his successor Lyndon Johnson did? Some say yes, while others say that JFK would have pulled out, sparing the nation the trauma of the war. In this episode, we interview Marc J. Selverstone about this fascinating question.THE KENNEDY
The Kennedy Assassination: 60 Years Later
Today is the 60th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. To commemorate this pivotal event in American history, we are releasing this excerpt from our episode "The Price of Ambition Part 3 | John F. Kennedy".FollowWebsite: thisamericanpresident.comTwitter: twitter.com/ThisAmerPresFacebook: facebook.com/ThisAmerPresSupportPatreon: patreon.com/thisamericanpresidentPaypal: pay
America's Forgotten Civil Rights President: Benjamin Justesen on William McKinley
Few Americans know much about William McKinley, but one could argue he did more for civil rights than almost all of his predecessors. In this episode, we interview Benjamin R. Justesen about the 25th president's forgotten crusade for racial equality.FORGOTTEN LEGACY: WILLIAM MCKINLEY, GEORGE HENRY WHITE, AND THE STRUGGLE FOR BLACK EQUALITYhttps://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Legacy-McKinley-Struggle-E
Key Battles of American History: After the War - World War II Leaders Preview
SHOW NOTES:In this episode of Key Battles of American History, host James Early and Sean follow a long-established Key Battles tradition by giving brief overviews of the postwar lives and careers of the major leaders, Axis and Allies, discussed in the series. Subscribe to Key Battles of American History!Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3nCfZZySpotify: https://spoti.fi/3nIwO5cListen to more episode
How George Washington Saved America with Bret Baier
We tend to see events like the founding of America as inevitable, but as Bret Baier observes, it was anything but. It took a great deal of blood and treasure and even a little bit of luck to establish the United States. No less important was the wisdom, character, and leadership of George Washington. In this episode, we interview Mr. Baier about his new book, To Rescue the Constitution, and learn
What We Get Wrong About Richard Nixon With Paul Carter
American schoolchildren learn one thing about Richard Nixon: that he's the only U.S. president in history to resign. He's been portrayed in countless books, movies, and documentaries as the most disturbed, paranoid, and corrupt president of all time. Paul Carter, however, says that we've gotten Nixon all wrong. In this episode, we interview Mr. Carter about his new book, Richard Nixon: California'
The Best of the Eyewitness History Podcast with Josh Cohen
In this special compilation episode, Josh Cohen of Eyewitness History shares his favorite interview moments and stories from people who witnessed some of history’s most extraordinary events.First up, revisit his conversation with Frank DeAngelis, former principal of Columbine High School, recounting the harrowing events of the 1999 massacre.Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3Ow8UF0 / Spotify: https
History Unplugged Podcast Preview: Theodore Roosevelt and World War I
Original Episode Title: Teddy Roosevelt Nearly Died in a Cavalry Charge Against German Machine Guns in WW1Suggested Show Notes/Description: Teddy Roosevelt faced many challenges at the end of his life. Racked by rheumatism, a ticking embolism, pathogens in his blood, a bad leg from an accident, and a bullet in his chest from an assassination attempt. But none of that stopped Roosevelt from attempt
The Most Divisive Election in American History With Luke Nichter
It was the most controversial election in American history. Was it 2016? Or 2020? No -- according to Luke A. Nichter, it was 1968. In this episode, we interview Professor Nichter about that pivotal election and how it changed the United States. THE YEAR THAT BROKE POLITICS: COLLUSION AND CHAOS IN THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION OF 1968https://www.amazon.com/Year-That-Broke-Politics-Presidential/dp/03002
