American Esoterica

Episode 56 - Did I Get It Wrong?

Look, getting it right is hard. Sometimes we have to settle for "close to right" or "sort of right" or even "not remotely right, but a good story nonetheless." This one features an interview with a special guest, Stuart Fisk Johnson, Esq., of the Aaron Burr Association, who has some things to say about we've treated Mr. Burr.

Episode 55 - The Smiths Rock Glastonbury

In which men once again learn which is the superior sex. You may have never heard of the Smith sisters, but after this, you won't forget them. Or their cows.

Episode 54 - Fabulously Unintended

An inquisition that everybody expects uses its greatest weapon - surprise - against its worst enemy - itself. It begins with a reign of terror but ends in a very different place. 

HOT NUGGET OF HISTORY - Railroaded

The intersection of the National Mall's biggest eyesore and its ultimate revenge on its most consequential critic.

Episode 53 - By Design, Part 4: The New Old Plan

In the fourth of four episodes on our nation's capital, new heroes emerge to drag Washington, D.C., kicking and screaming into the 20th century via a plan from the 18th century. In other words, the D.C. you know is a lot younger than you think.

Episode 52 - By Design, Part 3: A Century of Congress, Not Progress

In the third of four episodes on our nation's capital, it takes a century for the nation's capital to become...the national toilet. Follow the federal city as it grows and decays simultaneously.

HOT NUGGET OF HISTORY - Pope of the Potomac

If you think Washington, D.C., is a joke, well...it came by it honestly.

Episode 51 - By Design, Part 2: L'Enfant Terrible

In the second of four episodes on our nation's capital, one man's ego gave us a grand plan for our capital city, but it also led to his downfall. Come for the French fuss, stay for George Washington micromanaging real estate negotiations instead of presidenting. 

Episode 49 - April Foolin'

Hey, just because something isn't true doesn't mean we should just ignore its historical importance, right? Also, contains vague discussions of prior episodes and one use of the world's mildest profanity. Your great-grandma has been warned. 

Episode 50 - By Design, Part 1: The Dinner Party

In the first of four episodes on our nation's capital, a struggling new nation pulls itself together over dinner. Literally. Three men enter, two plans leave. Witness the most consequential dinner party in history.