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Real Stories Podcast

Graham Treadway, Brian Kummerer 37 Episodes Jul 2, 2026

Real Stories Podcast is hosted by Brian and Graham, who dig into some of their favorite tales from history. Alongside those historical deep dives, they interview everyday people who share their own real stories from the heart of it all. The show blends storytelling, history, and personal conversation. Each episode mixes narrative history segments with guest interviews.

Episodes

Jim Frye, A Life in Harmony Jul 2, 2026 6827 Jim Frye: A Life in Harmony tells the story of a man whose life has been defined by music, education, service, and an unwavering appreciation for the people around him. From his roots in Willard to his years at Bowling Green State University, Jim built a remarkable career as a band director and technology coordinator at Upper Sandusky Schools, inspiring generations of students both in and out of t

Chief Billy Friend and the Wyandotte Nation May 28, 2026 6731 In this special America 250 episode of Real Stories, we sit down with Chief Billy Friend of the Wyandotte Nation for a powerful conversation about history, identity, sovereignty, and the enduring connection between the Wyandotte people and Upper Sandusky. Together, we explore the story of the only people living in the Upper Sandusky region in 1776, the legacy of the Wyandotte Nation, and the impor

The Blizzard of '78 Mar 29, 2026 8572 In this episode of The Real Stories Podcast, we revisit one of the most powerful winter storms in American history, the Blizzard of 1978, and its lasting impact on Ohio and the wider Midwest. Through a meteorological lens, we break down how this rare and explosive storm system formed, unleashing hurricane-force winds and paralyzing snowfall across the region. From a historical perspective, we expl

The Red Slipper Murder, Resolution. Dec 23, 2025 1445 In this final episode of The Real Story of Cynthia Pheil: The Red Slipper Murder, Resolution we wrap up the series with a tight, 25-minute sendoff that revisits everything, the key moments, evidence, and theories that shaped the case. We also close things out with a brief but important update on what ultimately happens to Roy. We hope you enjoyed this true crime story from Real Stories Podcast.

The Real Story of Cynthia Pheil, Part III, The Girl in Red Slippers Oct 22, 2025 3400 In the late summer of 1953, 19-year-old Cynthia Phiel was searching for a fresh start. In just 27 days, her life would end in tragedy. But before that, she lived with courage, hope, and heartbreak. The Real Story of Cynthia Pheil, Episode III traces her final month through letters, lies, and longing: from her red shoes and a new job at Cleveland’s famed Higbee’s Department Store to the quiet decis

The Real Story of Cynthia Pfeil, Part II, The Red Slippers Sep 1, 2025 3195 The Real Story of Cynthia Pfeil, Part II, The Red Slippers is back with a chilling dive into the 1953 "Red Slipper Murder" case that rattled Ohio and ultimately the entire Midwest. Join us as we recount the horrific discovery of a brutally murdered, pregnant woman in Ellen Matteson's woods and follow Sheriff Dean McCallister's determined investigation to uncover the slain woman's identity and ulti

The Real Story of Cynthia Pfeil, Part I Jul 15, 2025 2104 Cynthia Pfeil was born in 1934, and grew up in a quiet suburban neighborhood of White Plains, New York. Productive and independent, she swam, rode horseback, and sewed her own clothes with professional polish. Cynthia was an obedient daughter, decent student, and a reliable babysitter. Her father, a German immigrant and hardworking auto shop owner, instilled a strong work ethic, while her mother,

The Dan Reid Road Show May 12, 2025 8209 Welcome to the Dan Reid Road Show, a Real Story of family, music, friends, and above all else…Love. From roots that stretch back to Indian Mill and childhood afternoons watching Gilligan’s Island with his Grandma, Dan’s story is a rich patchwork of family, friendships, and the formative power of being loved. Raised by a kind-hearted teacher and a devoted, if sometimes worried, father, Dan soaked u

Real Short Stories, A Chat with Congressman Bob Latta Jul 16, 2024 2394 In this special edition of Real Stories Podcast, we had an opportunity to chat with our United States Congressman Robert "Bob" Latta. We put politics aside and focused on Bob's life here in northwest Ohio, his routine as a member of the House of Representatives, and the challenges and rewards of life dedicated to service.

Wyanstock, The Real Story. Jul 2, 2024 2788 This year marks the 10th Annual Wyanstock Music Festival, so we thought we would sit down with some of the founding volunteers to reflect and have a few laughs about its evolution. There are too many people to thank; the sponsors, bands, fest-goers, vendors, volunteers, photographers, sound & light crews, fairgrounds caretakers…the list goes on. This is a humble attempt to pay tribute to all

Lightning Bolt Moments with Jerry Snodgrass May 29, 2024 6778 This episode we sat down with Jerry Snodgrass and our discussion went all over the place. Whether he was fishing with Neumeister's dough balls as a child, coaching a legend, directing the Ohio High School Athletic Association through Covid-19, painting houses, or hanging with his grandkids Jerry sees the bid picture and finds the little lessons in life's simple moments. We hope you enjoy.

The Real Story of Cadet Collins Jan 16, 2024 4422 Today we sat down with West Point Cadet Ethan Collins. Ethan, a Yuk, spoke about what it takes to get into the United States Military Academy, cadet life, and what it means to uphold the motto; Duty, Honor, Country.

Growing up Golfing, with Brett Montgomery Sep 15, 2023 4523 Today we sat down with Brett Montgomery and talked about his career on the golf course and more. Brett is a 4-time N10 Player of the Year, 3-Time Northwest District Champion, 2-Time All Ohioan, and finished 2nd at the 2019 State Golf Tournament.He attended Marshall University for 2 years and is now grinding it out trying to make a living playing the game he loves. We talked about competitive youth

The Real Story of Steve Schertzer Aug 1, 2023 4281 Steve Schertzer is many things; a father, husband, coach, teacher, mentor, and really cool dude. But mention his name around track & field fans and one thing comes to mind- the high jump! In the early 1970’s Steve held the world record (yes…world) for his age group in the high jump. He was a 4-time placer at the Ohio State Track Meet, 2-time state champion, he held the state record for a whil

Real Frog Tales, Ask Why. May 29, 2023 8507 Ron Gottfried serves. He shut down German TV, cracked jokes to the media after the Carey Blast, saved the OU Basketball team from the Blizzard of ‘78, helped recover the missing OLC jewels, and helped build ball diamonds. He takes his job seriously but not himself, he is humble. He helped solve countless crimes over a long career as a peace officer because he is patient like a wolf...still he neve

The Real Reile Story Apr 6, 2023 4606 Jim and Em Reile welcomed us into their home to discuss their story. Through 65 years of marriage, these two love birds have been busy doing all the things. This was a winding road of a story...farming, law enforcement, high school sports in the 50's, Whitefish Falls' Upper Sandusky Connection, and much more. We all know winding roads are the most fun!

Historical Connections with Betsy Bowen Dec 20, 2022 4902 Real Stories values the passion that goes into keeping our history alive. Today’s guest is a testament to just that. A local historian who has spent the bulk of her adult life studying, discussing, teaching and preserving the past of this place. As a caretaker and records keeper for the Mission Church in Upper Sandusky, she has served a vital role in maintaining the connection between Wyandot Coun

Sue the Baker Nov 7, 2022 5129 Sue Baker’s story is lighthearted yet wonderfully candid. Since the day she was born (literally) Sue has been winning hearts with her wit, good sense, and industriousness. This one spans North America, going behind the curtain on some of America’s classic culinary delights. .

The Real Story of Doctor Konstantine Solacoff Jun 17, 2022 6889 Some stories are just so much more than what words can explain in an hour. Doctor Konstantine Solacoff practiced medicine in Upper Sandusky for over 50 years, but that is only part of his story. Follow along as he explains his parent's emigration from Greece, his childhood friendship with Neil Amrstrong, Ohio State when it cost $25 a quarter, and much much more. This is a real story that takes u

Lake Central Flight 527 Apr 30, 2022 3173 At 7;52pm on March 5, 1967 a group of 38 souls took off from Columbus onboard Lake Central Flight 527...just 17 minutes later they fell from the sky in a horrific crash that left zero survivors. This is the real story of that crash and its aftermath.

Crock Night...A Real Story of John Grafmiller Feb 27, 2022 6137 John "Crock" Grafmiller's story is fun, insightful, and wonderfully candid. Along with tales of his education, upbringing, and deep relationships we also learned that Crock flew the classic Huey Helicopter on over 700 missions during The Vietnam War.A recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, we find his sense of duty and humility truly inspiring and hope to have helped John tell his real story

The Real Story of Coach Andra Bell Jan 27, 2022 5318 From 1973-2008 Coach Anrda Bell molded Upper Sandusky's Lady Rams Basketball program into a perennial powerhouse in Northern Ohio. While amassing 538 wins, 10 Northern Ohio League, 21 sectional, 8 district and 3 regional championships Andra became a staple around town, in the halls of USHS, and in the hearts of the young ladies she coached.But as you will hear, she is much more than a basketball c

Koehler Drug, Just what the Doctor Ordered Dec 27, 2021 4864 Brenda Koehler walks us through the story of Koehler Drug, as the sun rises on a new chapter for Upper Sandusky's longest serving pharmacy.

A Chat with Andy Stephan Dec 21, 2021 4448 Andy Stephan is a Wyandot County boy who spread his wings and has flown (literally) all over the world during his career in the Air Force and as a commercial pilot. His story is a great primer on how to work your way through the armed services. Our discussion circles from growing up at Stephan Lumber Company to building air strips in the Middle East, to how diplomacy can help bring about the bette

The Treaty with the Wyandots, 1842 Nov 17, 2021 5402 From 1630-1843 the Wyandot People lit their fires along the banks of the Sandusky River. This is a humble attempt at telling the Real Story of how the Wyandot came to leave Upper Sandusky for their new home "afar in the west."

Charles Dickens and the Garrett Inn Sep 21, 2021 3847 In the spring of 1842, Charles Dickens traveled through Upper Sandusky during his travels in America, Listen to the real story of his adventure.

Season 2 Teaser Sep 11, 2021 188 Just a taste, the tip...of the Iceberg, the big tease. Full episodes coming soon.

Robbie Darling Jul 1, 2021 6192 Today we talked with Rob Gagnon, a hometown boy who's career in the fashion industry launched him from Columbus, to NYC, to Marin County California and back again. This real story takes us from the "catwalk" in the Saint Peter's gymnasium, through Otterbein College, to the streets of New York on 9/11, to earthquakes in California. Please enjoy the Real Story of Rob Gagnon.

Life of Pie Jun 3, 2021 30 Today we sat down with Dale Piecha to talk about being a Navy brat, coaching football, having kids, and loving life. Enjoy!

Fritz and the Kid May 12, 2021 7833 Fritz and the Kid was an Upper Sandusky based band that played over 700 shows between 1992 and 2011. Today we sat down and got their real story.

Boy Mayor, The Real Scott Washburn Story Apr 16, 2021 4612 Today we interview former Mayor Scott Washburn to learn about his real story and his meteoric rise from Pizza King to Mayor.

Old Mission Apr 14, 2021 2392 The Old Mission Cemetery, built in 1824, has a storied past that begins with John Stewart (A rouge Methodist Missionary) wandering into Ohio in 1813. This is a story of bravery, alcohol, singing, and politics.

News from the Day- The Grummel Boys Feb 23, 2021 752 Brian and Graham discuss an old newspaper clipping about a bike race in Tymochtee Township, Wyandot County, Ohio. Thanks to Mr. Kim Dysinger Moore.

The Story of Colonel Crawford Part 2 Feb 4, 2021 3123 Follow Crawford and his company to the Sandusky Plains and ultimately to Crawford's burning at the stake.

The Story of Colonel William Crawford Part 1 Feb 3, 2021 2626 This is the real story of the life and horrid death of Colonel William Crawford. Today, Brian and I trace the roots of Crawford's life and discuss the circumstances that brought him to Mingo Bottom in the spring of 1782.

The Story of Caty Sage Jan 15, 2021 2126 In 1792, 5 year old Caty sage was kidnapped near Elk Creek Virginia...nearly 60 years later she was found. Listen in to find out her story.

Our Real Story Jan 15, 2021 1493 Graham and Brian talk about why and how they came to love history and why stories are so important to the human experience.

Real Stories Podcast

Episodes

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