Best Antislavery Podcasts (2024)

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#151: John Morton (PA) - The Signer Who Seized His "Keystone Moment" 34:13

1d ago34:13

34:13

While John Morton does not have the same recognition as other famous signers (like the one before him, Ben Franklin), he may have contributed to one of Pennsylvania's nicknames. Hear how Morton seized his "Keystone moment" when so much was on the line for the PA delegation and the Second Continental Congress. Also, a major announcement for our Patr…

1
#150: Practical Tips and Mannerisms for America's Public Service Interns 57:35

11d ago57:35

57:35

NEW Patreon update! Full versions of all interview episodes will soon be available to every paid member! More details next month! How can we better prepare young people to best transition into public service careers? Whether you are interested in applying for internships, already an applicant, curious about how young people are getting involved, an…

1
Statement from Friends & Fellow Citizens - July 13, 2024 5:15

1M ago5:15

5:15

Today (July 13, 2024) is a tragic day in American history. A former president and current major presidential candidate Donald Trump was tragically shot at a Trump rally near Butler, PA earlier this afternoon. Luckily by the grace of God, he is expected to be all right. But sadly, one rally attendee lost his life. We are better than this. Please con…

1
#149: How a Senator Forced His Party to Choose: Country or Radicals 30:12

1M ago30:12

30:12

Oscar Underwood, a Democrat U.S. Senator from Alabama 1915-1927, gained so much political capital during the Wilson administration and was considered a potential candidate for POTUS or VP. But his stance against the most powerful white supremacist group forced him to make his party go on record whether the party platform supports or opposes radical…

1
#148: From Federalism to Antislavery - How the Father of the Constitution Shaped Our Nation 53:21

2M ago53:21

53:21

For many, James Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution. But how did he become that Founding Father who shaped American institutions and politics far beyond his time? Dr. Lynn Uzzell, a Madison scholar and Associate Professor of Political Science at Bethel University, shares the real lessons and experiences that taught the Founder himsel…

1
#147: Benjamin Franklin (PA) - The Prolific Scientist, Statesman, and Reconciler 43:05

2M ago43:05

43:05

Arguably the most famous American scientist, diplomat, postmaster, and so much more, Benjamin Franklin embodied America as an experiment. What distinguished him as a signer of the Declaration of Independence which he helped edit? ICYMI, take a listen to Ep. 122 feat. Valerie Durham: https://ffc.buzzsprout.com/1255184/12791628-122-a-gathering-of-fre…

1
#146: Legal/Political Legacies and Aspirations of the American 'Lawyers' Revolution' 55:24

2M ago55:24

55:24

Revolutions are tumultuous episodes of history when the past and the present battle to fundamentally shape the future. How did the 'lawyers' revolution' and the American legal and political systems define and redefine the meanings and context of our laws? Dr. Williamjames Hoffer, Professor of History at Seton Hall University, tells the story of the…

1
#145: Cold War-era Pioneers of American Conservative Policies Toward China and Taiwan 44:30

3M ago44:30

44:30

Nowadays, American conservative political leaders have foreign policy platforms that call for greater toughness against China. But they are not the first generation of conservatism that wanted stronger U.S. foreign policy and security in the wake of Communist China. Learn more about two formerly prominent but now forgotten Members of Congress, CA S…

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#144: The Need for Responsible Deployment of Tech in American Infrastructure 51:19

3M ago51:19

51:19

Too often, Americans understandably anticipate modern technology but voice frustration over potholes. So what are some of the issues that are preventing the U.S. from having decent roads and technological advancements in our infrastructure? Kirbie Ferrell, a Texas A&M Bush School graduate and Policy Analyst at The Eno Center for Transportation, giv…

1
#143: Dr. Benjamin Rush (PA) - The Physician Who Prescribed Medicines of Education and Science 42:01

4M ago42:01

42:01

John Adams called him "a greater and better Man that Dr. Franklin..." So who was this pioneer of medicine, education, and science? Learn how Dr. Benjamin Rush, Franklin's protégé, laid the foundation for modern mental health care and became an avid advocate for causes such as abolitionism, public education, and health care for the poor. Support the…

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#142: "4am Kyiv was bombed" - A Diplomat's Reflections on the Russian Invasion of Ukraine 1:03:51

5M ago1:03:51

1:03:51

Around 4am on February 24, 2022, Russia launched a tragic attack against Ukraine that began the first major European conflict since World War II. The causes and effects of the invasion have disrupted the state of U.S. national security and global world order. Dr. Kateryna Shynkaruk, an experienced diplomat and academic who is a Senior Lecturer at T…

1
#141: Polarization, Partisanship, and the ABCs of the XYZ Affair 39:39

5M ago39:39

39:39

While the XYZ Affair was not about deciphering secret codes, one could decipher some of the contentious eras of polarization and partisanship in American politics. Learn how this diplomatic episode between the Adams administration and French envoys divided the young nation, led to the buildup of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and almost led to a m…

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#140: The Intense Struggles to Fight Antisemitism for Good 59:58

6M ago59:58

59:58

Since the tragic Hamas terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023 resulting in more than 1100 deaths, Jews worldwide have encountered an unprecedented wave of antisemitism. Trent Spoolstra, Associate Regional Director for the Midwest office at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and fellow Bush School alumnus with Sherman, recounted his person…

1
#139: Robert Morris (PA) - A 'One-man Treasurer' of the American Revolution 36:02

6M ago36:02

36:02

When people think of money, they may think of Ben Franklin. But a different Founding Father from Pennsylvania supplied a lot of money that funded the American patriot cause. Learn how Robert Morris's rise and fall in American politics reflected the contentious nature of political life in the early years of the federal republic. Support the Show. Vi…

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#138 Part II: Raising the Profile of Comms on the Hill 47:11

6M ago47:11

47:11

What is the future of comms on the Hill? In Part II, Sarah recounts her first-hand experience with Sherman as they were evacuated during the January 6th, 2021 Capitol attack. She also shares the mission and vision of her own PR firm 917 Strategies and the future of women working in comms in our nation's capital. And finally, why dogs are wonderful …

1
#138 Part I: Raising the Profile of Comms on the Hill 47:33

6M ago47:33

47:33

A Capitol Hill staffer once told me: "Comms [communications] IS policy." How do congressional communications influence policymaking? In this two-part episode, Sherman reconnects with Sarah Selip, whom he had the opportunity to learn from and work with during his internship with former Rep. Jody Hice (R-GA) in early 2021. An emerging leader for wome…

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Live from Kislovodsk on KWPC-AM860 24:39

7M ago24:39

24:39

July 24, 1998 • John Schwandke reported live from Muscatine's sister city in Russia, Kislovodsk.By Daniel G. Clark

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#137: The First U.S. Senator with an Abolitionist Platform 41:23

7M ago41:23

41:23

How did the first U.S. Senator with an abolitionist platform speak on the Senate floor? Hear excerpts from New Hampshire Senator John P. Hale's speech in support of a DC emancipation bill in 1862 and learn more about his public service career and accomplishments (including an interesting fact about his daughter Lucy). Support the Show. Visit george…

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#136: Promoting the General Consumer Welfare in the Modern Tech Age 57:08

8M ago57:08

57:08

Happy 2024! Welcome to another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens! As technology rapidly develops, how can we develop and protect consumer welfare? Tirzah Duren, Technology Director of the American Consumer Institute Center for Citizen Research, discusses how issues like antitrust, data privacy, and AI will shape the policy debates in an age of pola…

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#135: Abraham Clark (NJ) - A "Radical Republican" Who Founded New Jersey's "True Policy" 38:13

8M ago38:13

38:13

As revolutionary as the Signers were, few were as revolutionary as Abraham Clark. Hear how this Signer from New Jersey advocated for "true policy" in his home state and ideals for a diverse economy, accountable legislature, faith, and justice. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! See you next year in 2024 with plenty more content to come…

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#134: The Self-made Perseverance of an American General, President, and Hero 59:58

9M ago59:58

59:58

Many people regard Ulysses S. Grant as a great Union General but lackluster President. But isn't there more to this American hero's story? Dr. Anne Marshall, Executive Director of the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, shares more about the successes and imperfections of our 18th President and the mission and vision of this unique presidential …

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#133: The Whig Party's Strange Campaign in the 1836 Presidential Election 31:16

9M ago31:16

31:16

The U.S. presidential election of 1836 was anything but normal, especially if one was a member of the Whig Party. Although the Whigs nearly prevailed, unity within the party was a disaster. Nearly 200 years later, can the 1836 election teach candidates now and the future about party unity and disunity? With under a year until the 2024 presidential …

1
#132: Fears of the 'Central Kingdom' and their Impact on the International Order 1:07:44

9M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

U.S.-China relations are at tense levels and will define the course of the international order for decades to come. But what are the historical episodes that have led us to this point? Do our leaders understand this complex history between China and rest of the world? Dr. Jeffrey Crean, a history professor and author, provides deeper insight into h…

1
#131: John Hart (NJ) - The "Essentially Conservative" but "Heroically Liberal" Signer 32:21

10M ago32:21

32:21

Known as "Honest John," John Hart was regarded for his authenticity and dedication to the patriotic cause. Learn how this farmer from New Jersey participated in public service for nearly 30 years and lessons to learn about this Signer from The Garden State! Support the Show. Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org to sign up for our e-mail list! The si…

1
#130: Sowing Seeds of Sustainability in a Polarized Climate 1:03:28

11M ago1:03:28

1:03:28

With so much division, misinformation, and fear-mongering on environmental issues, Americans have found it difficult to weather the contemporary political ecosystem. So what policy solutions are there that can make our natural and political environment sustainable? Stephen Perkins, former VP of Grassroots Strategy at the American Conservation Coali…

1
#129: Never Forgetting the American Heroism on 9/11 21:12

11M ago21:12

21:12

As another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens passes, Sherman provides a recap of the interview episodes since September 2022. 22 years ago, America experienced a tragedy that would change the country and the world instantly. As yet another year passes since 9/11, Sherman offers some brief thoughts about the significance of America's yearly reflecti…

1
#128: The Complex, Transnational Webs of Drug Addiction and Trafficking in the Americas 58:30

12M ago58:30

58:30

The U.S. faces unprecedented drug addiction and trafficking crises that is intricately connected to law enforcement, foreign policy, and social factors. How extensive have these crises been regarding U.S. foreign policy in Latin America? Dr. Aileen Teague joins the program to share her views on the transnational drug trafficking and preview how com…

1
#127: Francis Hopkinson (NJ) - An Artist of America's Great Seal and National Flag 36:05

1y ago36:05

36:05

When people think of the U.S. flag design, they often think of Betsy Ross...but not Francis Hopkinson. Hear how this Founder with artistic skills encountered a major bureaucratic obstacle in the young Congress and how his writing analogized the patriot cause of the American Revolution. Support the Show. Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org to sign u…

1
#126 Part II: A Show about Podcasting - Insight and Lessons by Two Podcasters 27:19

1y ago27:19

27:19

Listen to Part 1 HERE! What goes into the process of podcasting? After nearly three years since Friends & Fellow Citizens began, this special, two-part, two-way interview episode features Sherman and fellow podcaster Francisco Kilgore, who hosts his own program "Hello Sonoma!". Both provide deeper insight into the podcast production process, includ…

1
#126 Part I: A Show About Podcasting - Insight and Lessons by Two Podcasters 56:14

1y ago56:14

56:14

What goes into the process of podcasting? After nearly three years since Friends & Fellow Citizens began, this special, two-part, two-way interview episode features Sherman and fellow podcaster Francisco Kilgore, who hosts his own program "Hello Sonoma!". Both provide deeper insight into the podcast production process, including tips on how to star…

1
#125: Dismantling the Whisky Ring - How Benjamin Bristow Fought for Government Reform 33:40

1y ago33:40

33:40

Discover the intriguing life and impactful legacy of Benjamin Bristow as this episode journeys through his career as a Union Army officer and major Republican Party reformer. Hear how his dedication to government reform and civil rights advocacy as a Kentucky state senator, US district attorney, first Solicitor General of the U.S., and Secretary of…

1
#124: Helping Families Responsibly Navigate The Social Media Age 59:59

1y ago59:59

59:59

In an age of social media, the challenge of promoting and maintaining trust online continues to grow and demand more solutions. So how can parents and educators contribute to minimize online threats and maximize accountability and personal responsibility? Brock Murphy, Co-Founder and President of Parent ProTech, discusses the challenges of social m…

1
#123: John Witherspoon (NJ) - The Clergyman Who Taught Moral Philosophy 33:04

1y ago33:04

33:04

What can we learn from the life and legacy of John Witherspoon, an influential figure in American history who left an indelible mark on the education system and the formation of our nation? In this Sacred Honor series episode, we also delve into Witherspoon's role as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress and the only clergyman to sign the d…

1
#122: A Gathering of Free Minds for Festive Fun at FreedomFest 1:15:17

1y ago1:15:17

1:15:17

Despite numerous political differences, most people can agree on one thing: everyone wants freedom! So where can people convene and socialize about ideas for liberty? A professional dancer and Executive Director of FreedomFest, Valerie Durham shares what makes FreedomFest a unique annual event, insight into how it is put together, and some of the s…

1
#121: The Hiss-Chambers Hearings - A Precursor to Today's Heated, Televised Politics 40:49

1+ y ago40:49

40:49

In today's politics, it is not uncommon to see Members of Congress in shouting matches among each other and even toward witnesses. But what historical precedent could explain how we arrived at this point in time of polarized American politics? In this episode, learn more about the highly televised HUAC hearings of Alger Hiss and Whittaker Chambers …

1
#120: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Maj. Brent Taylor and his Service Leadership 1:13:14

1+ y ago1:13:14

1:13:14

Utah Army National Guard Major Brent Taylor, a lifelong public servant and serviceman, was serving as mayor of North Ogden, UT when he embarked on his fourth deployment to Afghanistan. But on November 3, 2018, Maj. Taylor was tragically killed by an insider attack in Kabul, making him the first sitting U.S. politician to be killed in action since t…

1
The Legend of John Brown's Baby Kiss Revisited 38:54

1+ y ago38:54

38:54

In this episode, Lou does a deep dive evaluation of the legend of John Brown kissing a black baby on the day of his execution, a story that has been enshrined in poetry and paintings. Sharing his research on the topic, Lou considers the evidence and draws some interesting conclusions suggesting that this legend may have more than a core of truth. C…

1
#119: Richard Stockton (NJ) - A Prisoner of War Who Resisted Loyalist Rumors 35:46

1+ y ago35:46

35:46

Richard Stockton was one of the most prominent jurists and politicians before the American Revolution. But the growing conflict would not only take away his beloved estate, but also his health. Learn how Stockton's treatment as a prisoner of war and false rumors by Loyalists shaped the rough times many Signers faced soon after the Declaration of In…

1
#118: Balancing Regulation and Innovation for Greater Integrity in Gaming 1:06:37

1+ y ago1:06:37

1:06:37

Whether it's flying into Harry Reid International Airport or driving through the border town of Jackpot, visitors from all over the world come to Nevada for a gaming experience built on leisurely fun. But who is authorized to ensure tourists and locals are treated fairly by gaming companies and allow for an open environment of business innovation? …

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#117: The Unsung Protectors of Yosemite National Park 29:18

1+ y ago29:18

29:18

With millions of visitors every year, Yosemite National Park in California is one of the natural wonders in the U.S. But what many might not know is the work that President Abraham Lincoln and one U.S. Senator did to protect this park from destruction and exploitation. Learn how Senator John Conness helped spearhead one of the earliest examples of …

1
#116 Part II: A Lesson from Lincoln on Moral Leadership 25:22

1+ y ago25:22

25:22

Since Nevada officially became a "battle born" state in 1864 during the Lincoln presidency, Lincoln has been a ubiquitous historical figure in the Silver State. What other lessons can we learn from the 16th President? In Part 2, Dr. Green tell us why a both brilliant and imperfect Lincoln exemplified the type of moral leadership that can inform our…

1
#116 Part I: A History of Beating the Odds in the Silver State 1:09:18

1+ y ago1:09:18

1:09:18

It is no surprise why Nevada was often considered a major part of the Old Wild West. But what about the risk-takers who bet on the success of the Silver State from the Civil War to the modern era, from mob-ruled casinos of Las Vegas to professional sports on the Strip? In Part 1, Dr. Michael Green, professor of history at the University of Nevada, …

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#115: Lewis Morris (NY) - The First "Morris Family" Signer 32:01

1+ y ago32:01

32:01

While few have read about Lewis Morris, he was the first Signer from the prominent, political Morris family that ultimately continued to serve for the nation. Learn about how this signer responded to his Loyalist brother and how he became one of the first architects of what later became New York State. Support the Show. Visit georgewashingtoninstit…

1
#114: Leadership in Washington with Respect and Trust in Public Service 1:04:02

1+ y ago1:04:02

1:04:02

Presidents' Day is a federal holiday, but what is its significance in American history and culture? What qualities does a good leader have in the Pentagon, White House, or any American institution? Gen. (ret.) Mark Welsh, former Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force under President Obama and current Dean of the Bush School of Government and Public S…

1
"From John Brown to James Brown": A Conversation with Ed Maliskas 46:41

1+ y ago46:41

46:41

In this episode, Lou shares a conversation with author Ed Maliskas, a musician, clergyman, and researcher, the author of John Brown to James Brown: The Little Farm Where Liberty Budded, Blossomed, and Boogied (2016). In this fascinating discussion, Ed talks about coming to learn about the old Kennedy Farm in Maryland where John Brown and his raider…

1
The Sellout of Harper's Ferry Station: The Difficult Case of Heyward Shepherd 44:09

1+ y ago44:09

44:09

In this episode, Lou takes on the difficult theme of Heyward Shepherd, the black porter who was mortally wounded by John Brown's men during the Harper's Ferry raid, on the night of October 16, 1859. Reviewing the initial incidents of the raid, Lou considers the conventional narrative of Shepherd's demise, but then takes a sharp left turn: was Heywa…

1
#113: How a Son of a Former President Prevented Expansion of Slavery 23:45

1+ y ago23:45

23:45

Although President Martin Van Buren was one of the creators of the Democratic Party, some might say his son indirectly created the Republican party (perhaps by accident). Learn how the former President, his son John Van Buren, the Free Soil Party, and the Barnburners contributed to the prevention of slavery expansion in the U.S. and the prominence …

1
#112: Reconnecting Congress - Breaking Down Partisan Divisions on the Hill 1:09:10

1+ y ago1:09:10

1:09:10

Far too often, Americans hear about how polarized the U.S. Congress has become in recent decades. The bitter divisiveness among Members has major ramifications on the federal legislative process and the political climate, and it appears that many simply have not had opportunities to get to know one another. Among the 435 Members of Congress are tho…

1
Reaction & Reflection: David Blight on John Brown - - "John Brown Terrorist or Hero?" 52:07

1+ y ago52:07

52:07

After an extended hiatus, Lou returns with a reaction & reflection upon the YouTube video, "John Brown: Terrorist or Hero?" which features a short lecture by the eminent historian David Blight. John Brown Today features the audio version here, and listeners can also view the reaction & reflection video here (or copy this link: https://www.youtube.c…

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#111: Francis Lewis (NY) - A Mercantile Signer Who Sacrificed Wealth and Wellbeing 24:37

1+ y ago24:37

24:37

A successful merchant once had everything, but after the Stamp Act of 1763, he risked his business, estate, and even family wellbeing years later. Learn how Francis Lewis became a target for the British and the lessons learned from a largely unknown but influential Signer. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year! Plenty more Friends & F…

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