Our American Stories

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Latest Episodes:

How the USS Lexington Became a Floating Symbol of American Resolve Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of Our American Stories, she was built for war but became a beacon of memory. The USS Lexington (CV-16) launched into battle during the darkest days of World War II and earned her place in history through courage, endurance, and an uncanny ability to survive. Nicknamed the “Blue Ghost” by Japanese forces, she was reported sunk multiple times—but each time, she returned, ready for more. Today, the aircraft carrier serves as a museum in Corpus Christi, offering a tangible link to a pivotal era in naval warfare. Our American Stories contributor Anne Clare walks us through the enduring legacy of the Lexington.

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The Football Game Gerald Ford Never Forgot: Pigskins, Racism, and a Moment of Defiance in 1934 Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

On this episode of Our American Stories, before he was president, Gerald Ford was a rising football star at the University of Michigan. But in 1934, his loyalty was tested when Georgia Tech refused to play if his Black teammate, Willis Ward, took the field. Author and historian John U. Bacon shares this remarkable story of friendship, integrity, and a quiet act of defiance that helped shape Ford’s views on civil rights.

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How a Near-Death Jet Crash Prepared One Air Force Pilot for 9/11 Jan 09, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, during a high-stakes flight, pilot trainee Peter Braxton lost control of his aircraft and almost didn’t live to tell the tale. That near-death experience would prepare him for something no one could have imagined: becoming the first Air Force pilot airborne over the Twin Towers on 9/11. Here’s Peter with the story.

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America’s Last Bareknuckle Fighter Took on the Nation—And Won Jan 09, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, before gloves, rules, or weight classes, there was John L. Sullivan: a powerhouse brawler who became America’s last bare-knuckle boxing champion. With fists of steel and a standing challenge to fight any man alive, Sullivan didn’t just win titles; he won the country’s attention. In 1893, he launched his infamous “Knockout Tour,” daring challengers to last just 12 minutes in the ring with the champ for a cash prize.

Christopher Klein, a historian and journalist, shares the story of boxing’s first true superstar and the spectacle that made John L. Sullivan a national sensation.

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Roberto Clemente’s Legacy Preserved by a Fan Who Never Forgot Jan 09, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, long after Roberto Clemente’s final game, Duane Rieder found himself returning to the images, stories, and memories that surrounded Clemente’s life and career. A photographer by trade, Rieder’s interest in Clemente became a quiet pursuit—scanning negatives, tracking down memorabilia, and sharing what he found with others. Over time, the project grew into a museum. Tucked away in a restored Pittsburgh firehouse, the Roberto Clemente Museum now houses game-used gear, rare photographs, and historic baseball cards. Here's Duane to tell the story.

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“All Hell Broke Loose” and the Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

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 “all hell broke loose” 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 Most Recorded Guitarist in History: Tommy Tedesco of the Wrecking Crew Jan 08, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, he was the session guitarist behind some of the biggest songs of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, but chances are, you’ve never heard his name. Tommy Tedesco, a core member of The Wrecking Crew, played on everything from TV themes to Top 10 singles. His son, Denny Tedesco, tells the remarkable story of the man behind the music and the acclaimed documentary that finally gave these musicians their due.

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Why a Rhodes Scholar Walked Away from Oxford to Fight in the Vietnam War Jan 08, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, in the late 1960s, Karl Marlantes stood at a crossroads: remain at Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, or go to Vietnam and serve alongside the boys he grew up with, many of whom had already shipped out. He chose to go. That decision shaped his life in ways he’s still reckoning with. In this unflinching interview, Marlantes shares why he left behind comfort and entered the jungles of Vietnam.

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How “Georgia on My Mind” Became a Classic American Song Jan 08, 2026

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On this episode of Our American Stories, Ray Charles did not write “Georgia on My Mind,” but he gave it its enduring soul. Written in 1930 by composer Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Stuart Gorrell, the song lived a quiet life for decades before Ray Charles’ 1960 recording transformed it into a timeless American classic. Our host, Lee Habeeb, shares the story of how a haunting melody, a forgotten lyricist, and a singular voice came together to create a song that crossed genres, generations, and ultimately became the official state song of Georgia.

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“Hunky Dory” and “Hedge Your Bets”: The Wonderful Origins of Everyday Expressions Jan 08, 2026

Show notes

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 phrases “hunky dory” and “hedge your bets” 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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