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Flying Upstream Podcast058: Overcoming Self-Doubt: From Hating Her Voice to Becoming a Podcast HostIn this emotional and inspiring episode ofFlying Upstream, hosts Kristyn and Luisa are joined by Ayla Nao, the creator and voice behind the impactful podcastStake and Potato3s: Daily Messages for a Friend. Ayla shares her powerful story of overcoming physical abuse, from her struggles up until the age of 29 to discovering self-love, building self-confidence, and empowering others through her nightly podcast messages.Ayla discusses the challenges of love, loss, and overcoming societal programming. She dives deep into her personal journey of embracing self-care, letting go of control, and rethinking the traditional concept of forgiveness. This episode...2025-02-1321 min
Rise and Outshine Podcast ShowcaseCurator's Choice Podcast with Ayla AndersonHere is how AI listened to this episode! If you'd like AI summaries of your podcasts, check out Castmagic!https://get.castmagic.io/ugp958dba02xIn this episode of Rise and Outshine, hosts Jeff Revilla and Wise Otero welcome Ayla Anderson Sparks, the talented creator behind the Curator's Choice podcast. Curator's Choice is a show dedicated to museum enthusiasts and history buffs, where Ayla explores various museums and uncovers fascinating artifacts and stories with the help of museum curators. The episode ties in with the broader mission of the podcast, which is building up to a...2025-01-2140 min
Curator's ChoiceAnnouncement: Curator's Choice 2025Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Curator's Choice will be back in 2025 with new episodes.A huge thank you to our first subscriber Chuck!!!Send us a textSupport the showCurator's Choice - A podcast for history nerds and museum lovers2024-12-1800 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 66: Harriet Tubman Museum and Education CenterWhat was the Underground Railroad, really? Beyond the imagery of secret routes and hidden safe houses, it was a complex network of people, places, and powerful codes—codes in words, songs, and even the stars. Join us in today's episode at the Harriet Tubman Museum and Education Center in Cambridge, MD. 🌊 Moses of Her People 💪🏾 In this episode, we delve into the stories of Harriet Tubman, known as the Moses of her people, and explore how faith, resilience, and ingenuity helped guide countless individuals to freedom. We'll uncover the meaning behind songs like "Go Down Moses" a...2024-12-0432 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 65: Remick Country Doctor Museum & FarmWhat if you could step back in time to a farm where history, medicine, and agriculture intertwine? Join us as we uncover the remarkable legacy of the Remick family, who have tended their northern New England farm since 1790. Through stories of resilience and dedication, we spotlight Edwin Remick and his son, Edwin Crafts Remick, the country doctors who served their community for nearly a century, adapting to the challenges of rural healthcare while embracing the spirit of innovation and care. 🌾 Where History, Medicine, and Agriculture Meet ✨ We'll journey through rooms that once buzzed with the ac...2024-11-1941 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 64: Reykjavík Maritime MuseumJoin us as we journey to the Reykjavik Maritime Museum, a relatively young museum founded in 2004, yet one that preserves the centuries-old lifeline of Icelandic fishing. Discover how this unique museum showcases Iceland's deep connection to the sea and the essential role of fishing in the country’s survival and prosperity. 🐟 From Cod to Commerce 💰 Explore the historical significance of cod, Iceland’s economic mainstay, and learn how the museum’s immersive exhibits depict the fascinating “from sea to plate” journey. Walking through spaces designed to mirror a fish processing plant, visitors experience the scale and importanc...2024-11-0629 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 63: Seashore Trolley MuseumJoin us as we step into the rich history of the Seashore Trolley Museum, celebrating 85 years of preserving trolley heritage with Phil Morse, a devoted leader and long-time member. Phil's passion for keeping trolley history alive is evident as he shares his personal connection with the museum. Set against the backdrop of the 1930s Depression and the transition from trolleys to buses, discover how a group of young, visionary men laid the foundation for what would become a pivotal institution in transportation history. 🎓 From Harvard Dreams to Historic Rails 🚋 Dive into the captivating story of C...2024-10-2353 min
Access Unmissable Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernBeach Joys - A Collection of Erotic Short Stories from Cupido by CupidoPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/819757 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Beach Joys - A Collection of Erotic Short Stories from Cupido Author: Cupido Narrator: Scarlett Foxx, Savanna Scarlett, Alessandra Anderson Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 6 hours 1 minute Release date: October 15, 2024 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: ‘Beach Joys - A Collection of Erotic Short Stories from Cupido’ is the perfect collection of erotica for your summer holiday. From nudist beaches and camping sites to sex on the beach, from poolside fun to singles holidays full of sun, sea and sex, these short stories are packed with ocean waves of pleasure. The coll...2024-10-1503 min
Access Unmissable Full Audiobooks in Romance, Modern[German] - Flowers for Violet - Blütenküsse in Notting Hill, Band 1 (ungekürzt) by Poppy J. AndersonPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/820746 to listen full audiobooks. Title: [German] - Flowers for Violet - Blütenküsse in Notting Hill, Band 1 (ungekürzt) Author: Poppy J. Anderson Narrator: Yannick Forstenhäusler, Kathrin Rothfuchs Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 8 hours 19 minutes Release date: October 12, 2024 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: Als Violet wegen eines Todesfalls nach London fliegt, erwartet sie alles - außer das! Ihre exzentrische Großtante hat ihr und ihren Cousinen Rose und Daisy ein Blumengeschäft mitten in Notting Hill vererbt. Obwohl die drei keine Ahnung von Blumengestecken oder der Führung eines Geschäfts haben, wollen si...2024-10-1203 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 62: National Museum of Funeral HistoryExplore the profound journey of funeral practices through the ages. Discover how embalming has evolved from its origins in ancient Egypt to contemporary times, and how societal involvement in death rituals has transformed along the way. Our guide Genevieve Keeney Vasquez provides a thoughtful analysis of modern detachment from death rituals, examining its potential impact on grieving processes and the portrayal of death in media today. 💐 Honoring the Past: Cemeteries, Iconic Funerals, and the Evolution of Funeral Traditions 📸⚰️ Join us on a heartfelt exploration of personalized memorialization and funeral ceremonies. Learn how cemeteries serve as reservoi...2024-10-0927 min
Access Unmissable Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernThe Hearts We Break by Katelyn TaylorPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/817683 to listen full audiobooks. Title: The Hearts We Break Series: #3 of Alphaletes Author: Katelyn Taylor Narrator: Dane Anderson, Stefanie Kay Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 9 hours 10 minutes Release date: October 8, 2024 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: Heart. The most important organ in your body, one of the most fragile too. I've always worn mine on my sleeve. I put my heart into everything I've ever done and for the most part it's worked out for me. I'm the best running back in the league, I have a great family and a smoking hot wife. That is u...2024-10-0830 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 61: Indian River Citrus Museum (Repeat)Ever wondered what makes Indian River citrus the sweetest in the world? Join us as we explore the Indian River Citrus Museum. With Heather Stapleton as our guide, we unravel the historical significance and modern cultivation practices that make the fruit so remarkable. From Queen Isabella's explorers bringing sour orange seeds to Henry Flagler's transformative railroad, you'll gain fascinating insights into the vibrant history of Florida's citrus industry. 🍊 Savoring the Sweet Legacy of Florida's Citrus 🌴 Join us as we uncover the unique characteristics that differentiate Florida citrus from its Californian counterparts. Heather explains how the state...2024-09-2555 min
Access Unmissable Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernThe Big Puck by Stephanie QueenPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/816828 to listen full audiobooks. Title: The Big Puck Series: #1 of Portsmouth Whalers Hockey Romance Author: Stephanie Queen Narrator: Dane Anderson, Stefanie Kay Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 9 hours 22 minutes Release date: September 24, 2024 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: The good news is I was recently named head coach of the Portsmouth Whalers hockey team, the youngest coach in the NHL for their newest expansion team. The bad news? Brace yourself. I wish I had when I found out my half-brother just took his life. When I got up off the floor I also found out he l...2024-09-2430 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 60: Johnny Appleseed MuseumIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the real story of Johnny Appleseed—exploring the man behind the myth. Was he truly the eccentric figure who wore a tin pot as a hat? How did his Swedenborgian faith influence his life's mission? We uncover the origins of this small religious sect, examining Johnny's unique spiritual path and his role in shaping the American frontier. 🍏 Unveiling Johnny Appleseed: Myths, Faith, and Apples 🌱 We discuss Johnny Appleseed's nonlinear journey as an entrepreneur and his deep connection to the Swedenborgian Bible, which guided him in planting...2024-09-1148 min
Access Unmissable Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernComma Kaze: A Neurodivergent Professor Romance by Mellanie SzeretoPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/817803 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Comma Kaze: A Neurodivergent Professor Romance Series: #1 of Nerd Love Author: Mellanie Szereto Narrator: Craig Michael Beck, Charles Linshaw, Jocqueline M. Protho, David Allen Vargo, Veronika Rivera, Brendan Morgan, Alyx Morgan, Gillian Williams, Carol Beth Anderson, Heather Firth, Trenton Bennett, Shaina Summerville, Linda Graves, Karen Commins Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 5 hours 40 minutes Release date: September 9, 2024 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: Loss brings them together. Will their pact to raise an orphaned newborn help them find love and happily-ever-after? English professor Elijah M. Clayton, Jr., has promised his dying cousin h...2024-09-0905 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 59: Whales of Iceland MuseumIn today's episode, we take you on an immersive journey into the fascinating world of swimming giants at the Whales of Iceland Museum. Located in Reykjavik, this one-of-a-kind museum is home to over 25 life-size whale models, including the awe-inspiring blue whale, the largest animal to have ever existed.🌊 Echoes of the Deep 🐋Join us as we uncover the crucial roles whales play in our oceans, from carbon sequestration to fertilizing marine ecosystems. We'll also trace their incredible evolutionary path from land-dwelling mammals to the ocean's giants. We dive into the remarkable sensory abilities of whales...2024-08-2837 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 58: Museum of GraffitiEver wondered how graffiti evolved from gang-related tags to a celebrated art movement? Join me, Ayla Sparks, as we unravel the vivid history of graffiti, starting with Cornbread, the Philadelphia pioneer who turned the city into his personal canvas all to impress a girl named Cynthia. Through his story, we trace graffiti's metamorphosis from an act of defiance to a widely recognized artistic expression, capturing the spirit of an era that challenged conventions. 🎨 From Street Gangs to Art Galleries 🖼️ In this episode, we dismantle the stereotypes and legal challenges surrounding graffiti, questioning whether it's mere vandal...2024-08-1431 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 57: Museum of the White MountainsJoin us for an enlightening journey through the rich history and diverse ecosystems of the White Mountains, also known as the "Switzerland of America." Discover the ancient origins of the Appalachian Mountains and their profound geological and cultural significance. We'll highlight the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Abenaki communities, whose enduring legacy is under threat from an invasive insect species.🧺 Of Baskets and Borers: Abenaki Basketry and Conservation Efforts 🌲 At the Museum of the White Mountains, we delve into the “Of Baskets and Borers” exhibit, exploring the severe threat posed by the Emerald Ash Borer to ash tree...2024-07-3135 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 56: Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum📅 A Date Which Will Live in InfamyToday, we reflect on December 7, 1941—a date that will live in infamy. On this day, the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. With Amanda Sheley as our guide, we delve into the attack on Pearl Harbor at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Hawaii. Join us as we uncover the reality of the attack, which extended beyond Pearl Harbor to multiple airfields on Oahu. We examine the circumstances that both aided and hindered the response of U.S...2024-07-1643 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 55: Luray Caverns (Repeat)This week we head to Virginia to visit Luray Caverns, the most highly decorated caverns in the world according to the Smithsonian. In this episode, we hear from three professionals who share the history of the caverns, the science behind the decorating formations, and how The Great Stalacpipe Organ creates music.Phantom ChasersLuray Caverns was discovered on August 13th, 1878 by three local men: Andrew J. Campbell (a local tinsmith), William Campbell, and local photographer Benton Stebbins. These fellows were prospecting for a show cave as they knew of a cave in southern...2024-07-0242 min
Good is What Makes You Feel WellYoga Nidra: A Path to Recovery with Ayla NovaSend us a textI’m talking to Ayla Nova – a yoga Nidra guide in today's episode. Ayla began her training at an Ashram in India where she studied the practice and philosophy of Tantra Yoga which later evolved into her connection with Yoga Nidra. Later on her journey Ayla was diagnosed with leukemia. As usual, an immune suppression caused by the chemotherapy protocol led her to the ICU. After coming back from a coma and being told her state was terminal, Ayla started practicing yoga Nidra multiple times a day. Also known as NSDR – Non-Sleep Deep Rest...2024-06-2943 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 54: Edgar Allan Poe House & MuseumJoin us as we delve into the tragic and mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe, one of literature's most intriguing figures. Discover his legacy and unravel the secrets of his life at the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. 🕯️ Melancholy and Masterpieces 🎭 Explore how Poe's tumultuous adolescence, marked by loss and upheaval, fostered a sense of melancholy that permeated his future works, including "The Masque of the Red Death," "The Raven," and my personal favorite, "The Tell-Tale Heart." Discover often overlooked aspects of Poe's life, such as his career as a book critic...2024-06-1839 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 53: SPAM MuseumEver wondered how a humble canned meat could become a cultural icon? Join us as we uncover the rich history and global legacy of Spam. We'll take you back to its origins in Austin, Minnesota, where Jay Hormel's quest for a fully cooked ham led to the creation of Spam 87 years ago. Discover how this innovative product became a vital food source for soldiers during World War II and evolved into a beloved household staple in the post-war era. Our journey will take us around the globe, highlighting Spam's immense popularity in South Korea, the Philippines, and Japan.2024-06-0432 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 52: Neon Sign MuseumStep behind the neon glow with me as we venture into a radiant corner of Las Vegas history at the Neon Sign Museum. With Aaron Berger as our guide, we delve into a treasure trove of glowing lights that tell the story of Sin City.🎰 Illuminating Las Vegas's Past and Preserving Its Glow 💡Las Vegas's neon signs are more than just advertisements; they're historical landmarks that reveal the city's (dark and light) past. In this episode, you'll learn the ins and outs of neon sign restoration and how unique leasing arrangements inadvertently became a lifeli...2024-05-2247 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 51: Babe Ruth Birthplace and MuseumEmbark on a captivating journey through the life of the legendary Babe Ruth, from his humble beginnings in Pig Town to his towering fame in American baseball. Dive deep into the story behind his iconic status, dispelling myths and revealing the influences that shaped him early on. Explore the man behind the legend, tracing his roots from Pig Town to the pivotal moment he signed his first professional contract.🌟Babe Ruth: The Man. The Myth. The Legend⚾️Our narrative delves into the gritty world of early 20th-century baseball, uncovering the forces that propelled Ruth from th...2024-05-0738 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 50: Boonsboro Trolley Station MuseumAll aboard as we delve into Maryland's captivating trolley history at the Boonsboro Trolley Station Museum. Uncover how these transport marvels transformed rural connections, surprising even in funeral processions. With Reuben Moss leading the way, we unravel the intricate impact of trolleys on local trade, education, and the agricultural economy.💡 Boonesboro's Trolley Tales: Cantaloupes, Power Plants, and Electric Parks! 🎡 This episode delves into the history of Boonesboro, famed for its juicy cantaloupes and bustling trolley system—one of the nation's largest rural-urban networks. Experience the thrill of riding these trolleys and discover the Fred...2024-04-2352 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 49: National Road MuseumEmbark with us on a highway through history as we unravel the fabric of America's love affair with her roads. From the meticulous preservation efforts of past pathways in Frederick County to the lonely stretches of Nevada's Route 50, this episode is a true homage to the arteries that have shaped our nation. With guest Bob Savitt, we witness the celebratory opening of a museum dedicated to the National Road, the very first highway funded by the federal government. Join us as we discuss its evolution from trade route to leisure destination.🚦 Road Evolution 🚗Discov...2024-04-1030 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 48: National Museum of DentistryEmbark on a journey into the heart of Baltimore where the first dental school took root, revolutionizing oral health care. We'll reveal the pivotal moments that sparked the dire need for dental regulation, from sideshow jaw hackers to educated dentistry professionals. 🔧 From Baltimore's Roots to Regal Dentures 🦷With Scott Swank as our guide, we reveal the pivotal moments that sparked the need for regulation, professional associations, and medical journals, transforming the landscape of dentistry. From extracting teeth from the mouths of the city's poorest to showcasing the most luxurious dental tools fit for royalty, we delv...2024-03-2731 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 47: Lee-Fendall HouseStep into the whispered secrets of the past and uncover the echoes of history within the walls of the Lee-Fendall House. With our guide, Jenny Waters, we stroll through the timeline of this architectural marvel, from its conception in 1785 by Philip Richard Fendall to its dramatic roles during the War of 1812 and the Civil War. We'll weigh the gravity of a potential name change for this historic house museum, contemplating the delicate balance between historical accuracy and the enduring legacy of its name as we near its 50th anniversary as a cherished public space.🕵️♂️ Whispers of the Past: I...2024-03-1226 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 46: Mob MuseumStep into the glittering past of Las Vegas and discover how the city's infamous mobsters played a pivotal role in its rise to fame. Our journey chronicles the visionaries like Meyer Lansky and Bugsy Siegel, who laid the foundations of modern Vegas, and the likes of Moe Dalitz and Benny Binion, who left indelible marks on the city's landscape. Listen to the tales of ambition, power, and downfall that encapsulate the era when the mob ran the roost - a time that forever changed the face of this desert oasis and turned it into an international haven for entertainment...2024-02-2831 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 45: PoozeumStep into the quirky and captivating realm of the Poozeum, where fossilized feces are not only objects of curiosity but also a cultural phenomenon reshaping our understanding of natural history. Guiding you through this journey is your host Ayla Sparks and Coprolite Captain George Frandsen, who boasts an extraordinary repository of over 8,000 coprolites and holds two Guinness World records.💩 Unveiling the Secrets of Fossilized DroppingsThese coprolites aren't your garden-variety rocks; they're fossilized droppings that offer a unique glimpse into the diets and lifestyles of ancient earthlings. In this episode, we delve int...2024-02-1336 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 44: Drum Point LighthouseStep aboard a journey through time as we illuminate the remarkable tale of the Drum Point Lighthouse! Your host Ayla Sparks and guest Kevin Allor guide you through the immersive chronicles of this iconic beacon and the dedicated souls who tended to its flame. From guiding vessels through the Chesapeake Bay's misty waters in the 1800s to its triumphant resurgence following years of neglect, the Drum Point Lighthouse's saga is as captivating as the resilient keepers who ensured its luminance never dimmed.🏡 Cottage-Style Design and Daily Keeper Lives 💡 Step into the quaint quarters of the Drum...2024-01-3044 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 43: Museum of IndustryDiscover a treasure trove of history as your host Ayla Sparks, along with guest Jess Cragg, take you through the industrial evolution of Pensacola, Florida. Our episode unearths how the Industrial Revolution reshaped a fort town into a center of progress, revealing the ingenuity behind Snapper Smacks and the monumental role of trains like the T.R. Miller Mill Company Steam Engine #12. As we walk through time, you'll be captivated by the narratives of industries, from timber to turpentine, that left an indelible mark on the Gulf Coast.🌊 Maritime Saga: Red Snapper IndustryStep int...2024-01-1649 minCurator's ChoiceAnnouncement: Curator's Choice is Back!Curator’s Choice is back and better than ever! We're thrilled to unveil a fresh design, upgraded mic equipment, and an array of new museums and artifacts to share with you. Get ready for some upcoming highlights, including a visit to the Poozeum – yes, you heard that right! We'll also be exploring the enchanting Drum Point Lighthouse, the delectable Southern Food and Beverage Museum, and so much more. Could an interview with the Smithsonian Museum be in the cards? From ancient relics to modern marvels, brace yourself for a season filled with exhilarating artifacts and captivating guest interviews!Se...2024-01-0203 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 42: Car and Carriage Caravan MuseumOn today’s episode, join host Ayla Sparks as she embarks on a captivating journey through the evolution of roadway travel at the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum in Luray, Virginia. Our guest, Rod Graves, takes us on a tour of this remarkable institution, showcasing over 140 items that paint a vivid picture of transportation history. From the opulent mid-18th century Berlin Coup de Gala, emblematic of Portuguese nobility's grandeur, to the utilitarian charm of horsehair blankets and coal boxes that tell tales of early travelers' resourcefulness—this episode is a treasure trove for aficionados of motion and m...2024-01-0223 min
Paranormal Among UsEpisode 19 - Ghost Stories with Ayla AndersonPaul welcomes guest Ayla Anderson to share some of her ghost stories. From her childhood home to a friends house to the spirit of a friend, hear Ayla recount the details.
You can catch Ayla on her own history podcast, The Curators Choice Podcast (www.curatorschoicepodcast.com). Make sure you head over there and check out her show!
If you have a paranormal story that you would like to share or would like to be guest on Paranormal Among Us, please email me at paranormalamongus72@gmail.com. I'd like to hear from you.
Als...2023-12-2643 min
Sinister Dynasty - New Zealand (NZ) True Crime PodcastEpisode 28: The Raurimu Massacre - Six Gone too SoonThe Raurimu massacre was a tragic shooting that took place in New Zealand on February 8, 1997. The incident occurred at a remote railway worker's hostel in Raurimu, a small town in the central North Island.The shooter, identified as David Gray, a local man, arrived at the hostel armed with a semi-automatic rifle and began shooting indiscriminately. He killed six people and injured four others before being apprehended by police.The victims of the shooting included residents and employees of the hostel, as well as a visiting family of four. Gray had no prior criminal history...2023-05-0733 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 41: Shenandoah Heritage Village MuseumContinuing our trek in Luray, Virginia, I meet with Isabela Graves from the Shenandoah Heritage Village Museum. She shares the incredible work she and her husband have been doing to preserve the history of the valley, and some truly spectacular artifacts housed there.Shenandoah Heritage VillageThe Shenandoah Heritage Village is a seven-acre re-creation of a small 19th-century farming community made up of restored historic buildings, cottage-style gardens, and a small vineyard with a scenic mountain backdrop. They even have a cafe and gem mining sluice!Iron StovesIt...2022-06-0725 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 40: Luray CavernsThis week we head to Virginia to visit Luray Caverns, the most highly decorated caverns in the world according to the Smithsonian. In this episode, we hear from three professionals who share the history of the caverns, the science behind the decorating formations, and how The Great Stalacpipe Organ creates music.Phantom ChasersLuray Caverns was discovered on August 13th, 1878 by three local men: Andrew J. Campbell (a local tinsmith), William Campbell, and local photographer Benton Stebbins. These fellows were prospecting for a show cave as they knew of a cave in southern...2022-05-1742 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 39: Marietta House MuseumThis week we meet with Julia Rose at the Marietta House Museum.“Marietta House Museum houses the histories of multiple generations of families, free and enslaved, who lived and labored on the roughly 600 acres that made up Marietta Manor. The historic site holds the stories of how life was lived in agricultural Maryland from the Federal Era, Antebellum years, Civil War period, Jim Crow and Reconstruction through to the rise of the modern Civil Rights era in the early 20th century.”The work done at the house primarily focuses on the slavery era and understanding the...2022-05-0340 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 38: Mutter MuseumThis week we meet with Robert Hicks, the previous Director of the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia. The Museum contains a collection of anatomical and pathological specimens, wax models, and antique medical equipment, and is part of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. Along with the many preserved specimens in the macabre repository, you can find the liver of conjoined twins Chang and Eng Bunker, a 40 lb colon, and anthropodermic books (or books bound in human skin).Robert shares with us the history of some radioactive artifacts used by Marie Curie, including the Piezoelectric Quartz Electrometer, which is...2022-04-2048 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 37: Chesapeake Railway Beach MuseumThis week we meet with Kristin DeGrace at the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum in Maryland. She shares with us the incredible dream behind a vacation paradise destination, getting buried alive to make a living during the Great Depression, and about a railway trying to stay relevant in a changing world. “In the late 1800s, a group of Colorado railroad men shared a dream to build a world-class seaside destination on the shores of the Chesapeake and a railroad to connect it to Washington, D.C. The official opening ceremony for the railway took place on June 9, 1900, and the...2022-04-0518 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 36: Old Fort NiagaraThis week we meet with Robert Emerson at Old Fort Niagara in New York. The first fortified structure on the area was built in 1678 and has a few rebuilds and remodeling done since. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the roads were abysmal and the best way to travel was by water. And the great lakes created this water superhighway, so the location of the Fort at the mouth of the Niagara River was coveted by the French, British, and Americans. Also situated in the fort, is the French Castle, built in 1726. We learn why this c...2022-03-1544 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 35: Indian River Life Saving StationThis week we meet with Laura Scharle at the Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Life saving stations were erected along the Eastern coastline, at about 5 - 7 mile intervals. The purpose of these stations was to offer rescue and first aid to victims of shipwrecks. A precursor to today’s U.S. Coast Guard, the United States Lifesaving Service staffed these stations with trained servicemen who practiced drills during the day, and conducted beach-patrols at night. The station at Indian River was originally in 1876, but was moved to its present location in 1877 due to a sand dun...2022-03-0128 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 34: American Helicopter Museum and Education Center This week we meet with Bob Beggs, co-founder of the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He shares with us the process of establishing a museum and what progressive programs have been developed there. We discuss rotor heads, whirly girls, and the impressive ingenuity of rotary flight, as well as Harold Pitcairn and his Collier Award for his development of the autogyro and the human-powered, award-winning Aerovelo Atlas helicopter. Whirly-GirlsThe Whirly-Girls are an international organization of women helicopter pilots that was developed “in hopes of sharing information and camaraderie regardless of c...2022-02-1544 minCurator's ChoiceEpisode 33: Niagara Falls Oakwood CemeteryThis week we meet with Tim Baxter at the Oakwood Cemetery in Niagara Falls, New York. Historic Oakwood Cemetery was founded in 1852 on land donated by Lavinia Porter, daughter of Judge Augustus Porter (who is also one of the acknowledged founders of Niagara Falls). The Oakwood landscape we know today dates from an original design drawn in 1852 by noted civil engineer T.D. Judah. Drake Whitney, and consists of 18.5 acres of land in downtown Niagara Falls. Oakwood today contains many outstanding examples of funerary art including obelisks, sarcophagi, and beautiful statuary. Additionally, the landscape is lush with mature plantings...2022-02-0133 min