Our American Stories

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The God and Divinity Roots of America’s Most Famous College: Harvard Aug 21, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, long before Harvard became a global symbol of academic achievement, it began as a school to train Puritan ministers. The Bible was at the center of its curriculum, guiding the values and vision of its founders. As part of our ongoing series, Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America, shares the story of how Harvard’s divinity roots influenced generations of leaders — and why that heritage still matters in understanding the college’s place in American history.

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How Ellen and William Craft Outsmarted Slavery Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1848, William and Ellen Craft were enslaved in Georgia and knew they could not start a family until they were free. Their escape plan was as risky as it was brilliant. Ellen, who was light-skinned, disguised herself as a wealthy white man traveling with an enslaved servant — her husband, William. Together they moved openly through hostile territory, riding trains and steamships toward the North. Every mile carried the threat of exposure, yet their courage and quick thinking brought them to freedom. Doug Peterson, author of The Vanishing Woman, shares the story.

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"Fair Game" and the Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Andrew Thompson shares another slice of his guide to understanding the baffling mini-mysteries of the English language, this time diving into how the phrase “fair game” came to be. His book, Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases, is a must-read. Be sure to check it out!

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The First Martyr of the Abolition Movement: Elisha Lovejoy Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, if you want to know about the history of America, it is imperative that you know the role that the Bible played in shaping our country. Our Founding Fathers—both Christian and non-Christian—were heavily influenced by the Bible. Here to share another story is Robert Morgan, author of 100 Bible Verses That Made America. Today, Robert shares the story of Elisha Lovejoy, a minister, journalist, and outspoken opponent of slavery who used his printing press to speak out against one of the greatest injustices in American history—and paid for it with his life.

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A Survivor’s Story of Healing Through Faith in Christ Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Valerie’s life was marked by the trauma of abuse, but her story didn't end there. Through her faith in Christ, she found the courage to forgive and the grace to rebuild her life. In this moving account, Valerie Habeeb, Lee's wife, shares the story of her journey from deep pain to spiritual freedom through Christ, showing the hope that can come even after years of darkness.

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234 Marines Against 10,000 Chinese Soldiers: Fox Company’s Fight for Survival Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, at the height of the Korean War, Fox Company was cut off in the mountains and outnumbered almost fifty to one. Their orders were simple and brutal: hold a critical mountain pass or see thousands of fellow Marines trapped. For nearly a week, Captain William Barber’s men fought through cold, hunger, and relentless attacks, turning what could have been a massacre into one of the most heroic stands in Marine Corps history. Tom Clavin, author of The Last Stand of Fox Company, shares the story.

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The Day Rick Monday Made One of Baseball’s Most Patriotic Plays Aug 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Rick Monday’s career spanned more than a decade in Major League Baseball, but one defining moment had nothing to do with a bat or glove. In the spring of 1976 at Dodger Stadium, he intervened when protesters tried to set fire to the American flag in the middle of a game. His quick reaction, caught on camera, made him an unlikely national hero and turned an ordinary afternoon at the ballpark into one of the most memorable moments in baseball history. Veteran and Our American Stories regular contributor, Blake Stilwell, shares the story.

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The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Floyd Landis, Tour de France Winner Aug 19, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Floyd Landis’s story is one of extremes. Raised in a quiet Mennonite community in Pennsylvania, he trained on back roads without the distractions of modern life. That focus carried him to the 2006 Tour de France, where he pulled off one of the most remarkable comebacks in cycling history. But only days later, a failed doping test changed everything. The champion’s jersey was stripped away, and his name was forever tied to one of the sport’s most infamous scandals. Landis joins us to reflect on his humble beginnings and the hard road back to redemption after the event that changed everything.

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Dwayne Johnson’s Heartfelt Goodbye to His Father, Rocky “Soulman” Johnson Aug 19, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, before Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson became a global icon, he was the son of a wrestling legend. Rocky “Soulman” Johnson’s career in WWE helped pave the way for future champions, but his most lasting impact was at home. In this emotional tribute, The Rock shares memories of his father’s relentless work ethic, his ability to command a room, and the challenges and triumphs that shaped their relationship.

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John Marshall: The Farmer’s Son Who Became America’s Greatest Chief Justice Aug 19, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, before John Marshall, the Supreme Court was still finding its place in the new American government. By the time he was done, it had the power to declare laws unconstitutional, and entrepreneurs had the legal framework to build a nation. Marshall’s landmark decision in Marbury v. Madison established judicial review, forever changing the role of the Court. Beyond the bench, he was a man of simple pleasures, devoted to quoits, wine, and his hero George Washington. Richard Brookhiser, author of John Marshall: The Man Who Made the Supreme Court, shares the story of the Chief Justice who defined the Court’s authority and left a lasting mark on U.S. history. We'd like to thank the U.S. National Archives for allowing us access to this audio.

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