Best Told Tale Podcasts (2024)

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Pencils, Presses, and Persistence: The Eastland's News Heroes 44:36

7h ago44:36

44:36

Send us a text Join me on a thrilling journey through time as we uncover the hidden world of early 20th-century journalism during one of Chicago's darkest hours--the Eastland Disaster of 1915. Highlights: My personal pilgrimage to a family grave site that started everything. The forgotten technology that powered breaking news in 1915 "The Scoop," a…

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1984 - Part 22 (of 23) 10:59

2h ago10:59

10:59

We've reached the penultimate episode of "1984," and Winston Smith is about to enter Room 101... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps support this channel while also…

1
2048 AM Voices in the Wood 3: This Doesn't Even Feel Real 1:44:19

3h ago1:44:19

1:44:19

Content Warnings for this episode: religious themes, isolation, depression, anxiety, memory loss, body horror, forced human transformation, mental illness, mentions of drug and alcohol use, mentions of death, mentions of working and driving under the influence, derealization, allusions to homophobia/transphobia -------------------------------------…

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Raw Knuckles, Bare Feet: Eastland's Unlikely Heroes 48:34

9d ago48:34

48:34

Send us a text Welcome back to Flower in the River! In this episode, we explore the untold stories of two extraordinary individuals connected to the tragic Eastland Disaster of 1915. These heroes, whose tales have remained largely hidden from history, finally get the recognition they deserve. First, meet Amelia Schaefer Schmidt, a 15-year-old girl …

1
1984 - Part 21 (of 23) 18:09

2h ago18:09

18:09

Winston is about to embark upon his rehabilitation within the ministry of love. Can he really be re-programmed and learn to love Big Brother? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.o…

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2048 AM Voices in the Wood 2: I Hope You Never Find Peace 1:32:47

40m ago1:32:47

1:32:47

Content Warnings for this episode: religious themes, isolation, depression, anxiety, memory loss, body horror, forced human transformation, mental illness ------------------------------------------------ The Sublime is a weird place. Weird things happen to people and their lives get changed for the worse at the drop of a hat. You have to watch what…

1
The Chicago Shoemaker and the Jersey Transplants: Eastland's Unexpected Ties 44:21

14d ago44:21

44:21

Send us a text In this episode, the journey into the history of the Eastland Disaster continues, sharing new findings and uncovering untold stories of those affected by the tragedy. A unique two-part approach to research combines rigorous historical investigation with intuitive connections to the past. This episode features the compelling stories o…

1
1984 - Part 20 (of 23) 30:51

22m ago30:51

30:51

Winston has confessed, but O'Brien and the party do not want Winston's confession. They want to change Winston and turn him into a model citizen who believes in and loves Big Brother. But how will they achieve this goal? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: ht…

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2048 AM Voices in the Wood 1: I Don't Know Who Is Doing This 1:45:49

2h ago1:45:49

1:45:49

Content Warnings for this episode: religious themes, isolation, depression, anxiety, children in dangerous situations, kidnapping, violent break-in, allusions to cannibalism, memory loss ------------------------------------------------ The Sublime may be paradise, but it's lonelier than you'd think. So much work for so few people. Plus I think ther…

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From Web to River: Tracing Eastland's Digital Footprints 33:12

21d ago33:12

33:12

Send us a text Welcome back to Flower in the River podcast! In episode 74, we're uncovering more hidden gems from the Eastland disaster, including a deep dive into one of the very first websites dedicated to this tragic event. Get ready for stories you won’t find anywhere else! Key Points: Explored personal time capsules, including Aunt Pearl's not…

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1984 - Part 19 (of 23) 43:07

6d ago43:07

43:07

Winston is imprisoned in the Ministry of Love, and is reeling from O'Brian's betrayal. What's next for Winston, and what exactly is Room 101? This episode contains descriptions of torture & interrogation: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buy…

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Unraveling the Threads: Capone, Cons, and a Child's Survival 38:07

1M ago38:07

38:07

Send us a text Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sensitive topics that may be distressing to some listeners. We cover historical events involving child abuse, exploitation, and trauma related to the aftermath of the Eastland disaster. The second half of the episode includes descriptions of violence against a minor. Listener disc…

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1984 - Part 18 (of 23) 28:57

1M ago28:57

28:57

Our last episode abruptly ended and today we find out why Winston was cut off mid-sentence... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps support this channel while also su…

1
Trailer: 2048 AM Voices in the Wood 1:17

1M ago1:17

1:17

2048 AM Voices in the Wood is a five-episode mini-series following 5 broadcasts of a student-run radio show in a dystopian world, where “everyone has a place” and those who don’t like their place are cursed into turning into animals. Mixing the elements of DIY music, body horror, and TTRPGs, Voices in the Wood explores the anxiety, frustration, and…

1
From Silence to Testimony: Eastland Survivors Speak Out 49:49

1M ago49:49

49:49

Send us a text Explore the gripping tales of the survivors from the Eastland disaster! Episode 72 peels back the layers of history to reveal the human side of this tragic event. Journey with me as I retrace my great-aunt Martha’s final steps, experiencing eerie sensations and unexpected emotions along the way. You won’t believe what happened at the…

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1984 - Part 17 (of 23) 1:05:50

1M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

O'Brien has welcomed Winston and Julia into the resistance and informed them that they will receive a book written by Goldstein, the leader of the resistance. How will reading this book change their lives? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patre…

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Time's Tide: Navigating 109 Years of Eastland Stories 50:05

1M ago50:05

50:05

Send us a text In this special episode commemorating the 109th anniversary of the Eastland disaster, we're taking a moment to reflect on the stories and individuals covered since November 2023. It's been an incredible journey of discovery, preserving and sharing often-forgotten narratives. Exciting news to share: Tom Milton's letter and related ite…

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1984 - Part 16 (of 23) 23:41

2M ago23:41

23:41

In episode 14, O'Brien hinted to Winston that he also harbored anti-party sentiments and invited Winston to come to his home. Julia and Winston have decided to go. Are they ready to come out to a senior party member? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https:…

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From Hawthorne Works to Heartbreak: Legacy of Loss 43:53

2M ago43:53

43:53

Send us a Text Message. Listener discretion advised: this episode has some graphic descriptions of death. Welcome to the 70th episode of Flower in the River! Today, we're peeling back the layers of time to explore the chaotic history of early 20th century Cicero, Illinois, focusing on the behemoth known as Western Electric's Hawthorne Works. My jou…

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1984 - Part 15 (of 23) 17:02

2M ago17:02

17:02

Winston and Julia know they must end their relationship. Can they find a way out of the party so they can remain together... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps sup…

1
The Actor and the Doctor: Converging Lives Post-Eastland 40:12

2M ago40:12

40:12

Send us a text What would you do if you narrowly missed a disaster that claimed hundreds of lives? In this episode of "Flower in the River Podcast," we uncover the riveting stories of Tom Milton and Dr. Willard Calvin Haynes, two unsung heroes forever linked by the 1915 Eastland disaster. First, we journey with Tom George Milton, a man who narrowly…

1
1984 - Part 14 (of 23) 7:15

2M ago7:15

7:15

Winston suspects that O'Brian might also harbour anti-party sentiments. How should he approach this delicate subject with him? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps s…

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Arthur Loeb: The Fake Hero of Real Tragedies 1:07:18

2M ago1:07:18

1:07:18

Send us a text Trigger warning: there is a brief mention of suicide in this episode. Introduction Welcome back, and a special hello to all the new listeners! If you’re just joining us, think of this as jumping into the middle of an intriguing movie—I'll provide some context and encourage you to listen to previous episodes. Today's Topic: Arthur Loe…

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1984 - Part 13 (of 23) 19:41

2M ago19:41

19:41

As Winston and Julia's relationship develops, so does the risk. Should they continue in secrecy, or should they try to defy the party machine? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.…

1
Survived But Not Saved: The Lingering Legacy of the Eastland Disaster 31:53

2M ago31:53

31:53

Send us a text In today's episode, we explore the unique and tragic case of Chrissie McNeal Lauritzen who survived the Eastland disaster but succumbed to long-term health issues years later. We discuss how her story, and others like hers, have been overlooked in the broader narrative of the disaster. We also talk about the surprising discoveries fr…

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1984 - Part 12 (of 23) 20:49

3M ago20:49

20:49

Winston and Julia are managing to keep their relationship a secret from the Party. Will they be able to keep their rendezvous secret for much longer? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bo…

1
From Tragedy to Transformation: The George Haas Story 41:12

3M ago41:12

41:12

Send us a text In this episode, we commemorate the 120th anniversary of the General Slocum tragedy, which took place on June 15, 1904. We examine the profound impact this disaster had on families and communities, specifically focusing on the Haas family. The episode also explores the intriguing connection between historical tragedies and fictional …

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1984 - Part 11 (of 23) 20:29

3M ago20:29

20:29

Winston Smith and Julia have become lovers. How will their relationship endure in a world where they are under constant surveillance and the ever-present thought police? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buyi…

1
Rivers of Grief: Eastland and the General Slocum 35:55

3M ago35:55

35:55

Send us a text This episode dives into the eerie connections between the Eastland Disaster and the General Slocum tragedy, two devastating events with striking historical parallels. Listen in for compelling stories of individuals touched by these disasters, their genealogical backgrounds, and personal narratives. Discover the profound impact on imm…

1
1984 - Part 10 (of 23) 20:44

3M ago20:44

20:44

Last time, Winston Smith finally met with 'the girl' in a public square, and they have arranged a secret meeting out of town. But this poses huge risks for Winston - does she really love him? Or is she really an agent of the Thought Police...? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the chan…

1
From Hoboken to Hawthorne: Martha Willig's Untold Story 31:16

3M ago31:16

31:16

Send us a text What if moving away from one disaster only set you on a collision course with another? In This Episode-- Weather and Historical Parallels: Kick off the episode by discussing the recent rains and drawing a parallel to the infamous Johnstown Flood of 1889. This catastrophe reshaped the lives of many, including my own ancestors. Family …

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1984 - Part 9 (of 23) 24:22

3M ago24:22

24:22

With an understanding of Winston Smith's world, we embark on Part 2 of 1984, delving deeper into his personal life and matters of the heart... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.…

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The Chronicler and the Rescuer: Unveiling Overlooked Narratives 40:02

3M ago40:02

40:02

Send us a text In this episode of "Flower in the River," I dive into the intricate history of the 1915 Eastland disaster, uncovering untold stories of bravery and legacy. Join me as I share new discoveries, reflect on historical research, and pay heartfelt tributes to the forgotten heroes of the tragedy. Highlights: New Listener Inquiries: Address …

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1984 - Part 8 (of 23) 43:53

3M ago43:53

43:53

We have reached the end of Part 1 of "1984," and Winston Smith decides to venture into the Proles. He is eager to learn about the life of the people who live there and to discover what hope he can find... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreo…

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Selfless Saviors: Two Extraordinary Rescuers in the Eastland Disaster 38:31

4M ago38:31

38:31

Send us a text Welcome to Episode 62 of Flower in the River Podcast. A gripping tale from the Bell Telephone News (August 1915) The extraordinary heroism of Fred J. Lippert and George Spiegelhauer during the Eastland Disaster. A heart-pounding account of their daring rescues and the obstacles they overcame The fascinating history of pulmotors: the …

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Undertaking Courage: Catherine Wyand's Eastland Story 36:10

4M ago36:10

36:10

Send us a text This episode discusses the contributions of women morticians by first focusing on one woman mortician's involvement in the Eastland Disaster. Highlights. An obituary from the Oak Leaves dated December 30, 1947, about Mrs. Catherine Wheeler Wyand, who ran an undertaking business in Chicago. Catherine Wyand's background. The 1880 Cook …

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1984 - Part 7 (of 23) 27:17

4M ago27:17

27:17

Can Winston Smith find hope in the world? Is resistance to the party be possible? This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps support this channel while also supporting loc…

1
Threads of Tragedy: The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire and the Eastland Disaster 32:53

4M ago32:53

32:53

Send us a text In this episode, I explore pivotal events in American labor history, focusing on the personal stories of three women who tragically lost their lives in the Eastland disaster, and how their stories intertwine with broader labor rights movements. Starting with the harrowing Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City, we explore …

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1984 - Part 6 (of 23) 13:32

4M ago13:32

13:32

This week Winston Smith continues to analyse the world he lives in and how he has or hasn't conformed along the way... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps support t…

1
Crowdsourcing the Past: The Eastland Tragedy and Collaborative Genealogy 29:50

4M ago29:50

29:50

Send us a text Introduction: Exploring the democratization of historical documentation through platforms like Reclaim the Records, WikiTree, GEDmatch, and Find a Grave. Reclaim the Records: Non-profit organization advocating for public access to historical documents. Using legal means to unlock previously hidden archival records. Over 60 million re…

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1984 - Part 5 (of 23) 31:41

4M ago31:41

31:41

Winston Smith continues to struggle to keep his new thoughts secret... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop helps support this channel while also supporting local bookshop…

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Irish Roots and Greek Tides: More Eastland Stories 40:53

5M ago40:53

40:53

Send us a text In Episode 58 of Flower in the River Podcast, we explore more untold stories of the Eastland Disaster through the lives of two victims, Mary Helen Egan and Theodore Hallas, whose stories bring to life the diverse richness of early 20th-century Chicago. We'll explore their family backgrounds, their communities, and the historical cont…

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1984 - Part 4 (of 23) 22:16

5M ago22:16

22:16

In this episode we get to see into Winston Smith's work life. Will his newly rebellious mind fit into the order of office life?... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org shop hel…

1
Bloodlines and Bylines: The Power of Genetic Genealogy 31:24

5M ago31:24

31:24

Send us a text Today’s episode is a special one, dedicated in memory of my cousin "George," (not his real name) and intertwined with an exploration of genetic genealogy. Episode Highlights A Tribute to "George" Sharing the story of my cousin George, set against the backdrop of the 1930s in a coal mining town in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. His life sto…

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1984 - Part 3 (of 23) 18:53

5M ago18:53

18:53

In 1984, a world of endless propaganda and the ever present thought police, can Winston Smith hide his illegal and rebellious thoughts?... This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution. You can support the channel via our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thewelltoldtale Books - (buying books from our Bookshop.org …

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Bonded in Tragedy: The Role of Fraternal Orders in the Eastland Disaster 44:09

5M ago44:09

44:09

Send us a text Welcome to Episode 56 of Flower in the River Podcast, where we will explore the role of Fraternal Organizations in the wake of the Eastland Disaster. Many victims of the Eastland disaster were members of various fraternal organizations Exploring the role these organizations played in the lives of working-class communities in early 20…

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1984 - Part 2 (of 23) 18:17

5M ago18:17

18:17

In part two we pick up the story of 1984 as Winston Smith has just finished writing "Down With Big Brother!" in his new diary. An act punishable by death. There is a knock at the door. Have the thought police caught up with him already...?! This novel contains adult themes: younger listeners, please proceed with caution... You can support the chann…

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Archives Unveiled: The Eastland Disaster's Hidden Stories 34:12

5M ago34:12

34:12

Send us a text In Episode 55 of Flower in the River Podcast, I share the remarkable discovery of a story about the Eastland Disaster found in an old periodical. Today's Tale: The Power of PERSI reveals how attended a webinar led me to discover an eyewitness account of the Eastland Disaster. It was waiting inside the Periodical Source Index (PERSI)!…

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1984 - Part 1 (of 23) 38:43

5M ago38:43

38:43

We begin a classic of political fiction; 1984 by George Orwell. The words "Big Brother is watching you" have made their way into our everyday vocabulary. Written in 1946, many of the themes of the book are as relevant today as they were in the post World War II & pre Cold War era. This novel contains adult themes, so, younger listeners, please proc…

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Sassiness Saved Her: A Jewish Girl's Narrow Escape from the Eastland 31:40

5M ago31:40

31:40

Send us a text In this episode, I continue exploring the Jewish legacy of the 1915 Eastland Disaster in Chicago. Insights from Jewish genealogy experts, Ellen Kowitt and Rhonda R. McClure, on the unique challenges and strategies for tracing Jewish ancestry, including navigating name variations, language barriers, and historical events like pogroms …

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