In 1997 Annette Gordon-Reed published 'Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings: An American Controversy.' Her work has inspired other historians to look beyond the traditional narrative when researching and writing about American history. We talk with Gordon-Reed about her contributions to historical scholarship and dedication to preserving complex American history. Then, we listen back to a 2024 conversation with musician Lucinda Williams about her memoir 'Don't Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You'. Williams is headlining the Iowa City Songwriters Festival in November. (Part of this episode was originally produced Aug. 20, 2024.)
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A map created by leaders of the Ioway Tribe in 1837 to defend claims of their homeland offers a powerful perspective on history, one that challenges how we understand early American mapping. We speak with author William Green and tribal historian Alan Kelley about what this map reveals. Plus, a look back at the 2020 Midwest Derecho and what scientists have learned in the years since. -
In his new book, historian Kevin Mason looked into the 1835 Dragoon Expedition along the Des Moines River to better understand how Iowa’s landscape has transformed over time. He retraced the 371-mile expedition on foot. He joins 'Talk of Iowa' to share insights from his journey and new book.
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A new book uncovers the story of two Vaudeville performers from an Iowa coal mining town who rose to fame on the national stage. Dan Henderson is the author and the great-nephew of the book's subjects. He shares their how their story offers a window into everyday life and entertainment in the 1920s. Plus, the Iowa City High School teacher behind the viral TikTok account @squirehaligast talks about bringing classroom humor to 1.4 million followers.
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Luther College professor Amy Weldon reimagines the life of Mary Shelley in her novel 'Creature,' offering a fresh perspective on the author of a classic. Then three-time Paralympic gold medalist Kevin McKee looks ahead to the Milano Cortina Games.
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University of Iowa historian Ashley Howard discusses her new book Midwest Unrest: 1960s Urban Rebellions and the Black Freedom Movement. And the Ingersoll in Des Moines reopens after more than a decade and $4.7 million in renovations, aiming to reclaim its place as a cultural hub for the community.
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Maintaining mobility as we age is critical when it comes to independence and quality of life. Kinesiologist Gregory Welk and research scientist Abbie Coniglio of ISU join the program to talk about what adults of any age can do to maintain or increase mobility as they age. Later in the episode, author and master of flash fiction Grant Faulkner returns to talk about his newest book, 'Something Out There in the Distance.' Faulkner also shares about his newest writing community, Memoir Nation, and a reality show he's executive producing. He will be reading at Beaverdale Books on Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m.
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Historian and bestselling author Colin Woodard argues America's divide isn’t red vs. blue at all — it’s a clash of distinct cultural nations. -
Opera legend Simon Estes and director Steve Schott discuss the making of their new documentary Simon Estes: A Heart and a Voice. Then, author John T. Price joins to discuss his latest work inspired by nature's ability to comfort through times of tragedy.
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Ruth Harkin reflects on her career and memoir, When My Husband Ran for President and Other Short Stories. Plus, what gravestones can teach us about history ahead of the annual Oakland Cemetery walk.
