Our American Stories

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Latest Episodes:

The Harriet Tubman Story Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Our American Stories, Harriet Tubman is one of the giants of American history—a pistol-packing, fearless, and inspiring visionary who led scores of her fellow slaves to freedom. Here to tell her story is Kate Clifford Larson, author of Bound for the Promised Land: Harriet Tubman, Portrait of an American Hero.

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The Stories Behind Our Easter Traditions Apr 20, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, bestselling author Ace Collins reveals the stories behind the events and traditions that shaped Easter, introducing stories you've likely never heard and offering a deeper appreciation for the holiday’s familiar hallmarks. You won't want to miss this one!

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Louis Zamperini: The Story of the Real-Life "Unbroken" Hero -- In His Own Words Apr 18, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, our next story was made into a 2014 motion picture directed by Angelina Jolie and based on the 2010 non-fiction book by Laura Hillenbrand, Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption. While some of the most remarkable parts of Louis Zamperini’s story were left out of the film, you'll hear them in this piece—from the man himself.

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Why Is It Called a "Crapper"? The Amazing Story of the Toilet Apr 18, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, our own Greg Hengler—and others—tell the splinter-free story of the toilet and its many accessories. You're going to want to be sitting down for this one!

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The "Slap Shot" Story with Dave Hanson Apr 18, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, the iconic Hanson Brothers from Slap Shot weren’t actors—they were real minor league hockey players. When Dave "Killer" Hanson was cast in the 1977 cult classic alongside Paul Newman, the unforgettable trio was born. Here's David himself with the true story behind one of the most legendary roles in sports movie history.

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"Red Tape & Rule of Thumb" and the Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions (Pt. 19) Apr 18, 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. His book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases.

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The Ex-Slave Who Joined the Union Army and Became the First Black Medal of Honor Recipient Apr 17, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Sgt. William H. Carney became the first Black American to earn the Medal of Honor after protecting one of the United States' greatest symbols during the Civil War—the American flag. Here to tell the story is Elliott Drago, historian and editorial officer at the Jack Miller Center.

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“Hunky Dory & Hedge Your Bets” and the Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions (Pt. 9) Apr 17, 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. His book is Hair of the Dog to Paint the Town Red: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions and Fun Phrases. Check it out!

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Weapons of WWII with Stephen Ambrose: Bombers and Fighters Apr 17, 2025

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Stephen Ambrose was one of America’s leading biographers and historians. Although he passed away in 2002, his epic storytelling can now be heard here on Our American Stories, thanks to the efforts of those who manage his estate. Today, Stephen examines Allied aerial might—and how we figured out how to take the fight to Germany effectively over the skies of Europe.

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The Story of the Man Behind Movie Classics "Braveheart", "We Were Soldiers", "Secretariat", and Others — Screenwriter/Director Randall Wallace Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Our American Stories, Braveheart continues to capture the hearts of moviegoers around the world. The film was nominated for ten Academy Awards and won five. Writer/director Randall Wallace (Braveheart, We Were Soldiers, The Man in the Iron Mask, Heaven Is for Real, Pearl Harbor, and more) shares the story of his journey that began in rural Tennessee—and led him to become one of the bravest men in Hollywood.

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