Shows
70 Years, 70 MuppetsEpisode 43 - ScooterThis week we spotlight the gifted gopher, Scooter!With host Shane Keating and guests Lucas Ross, with Adam Grosswirth, Addison, Anthony Strand, Becca Petunia, Christie Baugher, David Levy, Drake Lucas, Eli Lee, Gav, Jamie Carroll, Jarrod Fairclough, Joe Hennes, Katilyn Miller, Matthew Gaydos, Matthew Soberman, Michal Richardson, Mike Westfall, Revflooper, Sam Schulz, Tony Whitaker, Tori Schmidt2025-06-1517 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUK - Vikings and the Fight for EnglandIn this episode of Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern World, we explore the turbulent period of Viking invasions in England, beginning with the brutal raid on Lindisfarne in 793 AD. As the Vikings established settlements across the British Isles, Anglo-Saxon kingdoms fell one after another. Amidst the chaos rose Alfred of Wessex—later known as Alfred the Great—who, through resilience, military reform, and diplomatic skill, defended his kingdom and laid the foundations for a united England. The story of this era is one of survival, adaptation, and ultimate unity, as Anglo-Saxon and Viking influences blended to forge the...2025-04-2704 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUK - The Anglo-Saxon DawnThis episode explores the transformative era following the fall of Roman Britain, when waves of Anglo-Saxons—mainly from present-day Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands—crossed the North Sea and began settling in the British Isles. As Roman institutions collapsed, these new settlers brought with them their own languages, beliefs, and warrior culture.We follow the formation of early kingdoms such as Wessex, Mercia, and Northumbria, and meet legendary figures like King Æthelbert of Kent, who embraced Christianity, and King Offa, who asserted dominance across large parts of England. The episode also highlights how these early kingdoms laid the c...2025-04-0904 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUK - The Land Before EnglandBefore England became a nation, the British Isles were shaped by prehistoric settlers, Celtic tribes, and the mighty Roman Empire. This episode explores the earliest inhabitants, from the builders of Stonehenge to the fierce warriors of ancient Britain. It delves into the transformative impact of the Roman invasion in 43 AD—how they brought roads, cities, and governance, leaving an indelible mark on British culture. But with Rome’s decline, Britain was left vulnerable, setting the stage for new invaders and the next chapter of its history. The episode paints a vivid picture of a land in transition, where ancient trad...2025-03-1904 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The American Identity"The American Identity," we reflect on how the nation’s turbulent history—from revolution and constitutional debates to westward expansion and the fight for equality—has blended together to form a unique American identity. This identity is built on the founding ideals of freedom and democracy, symbolized by documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It also embraces the diversity brought by waves of immigrants, who have added countless cultural, linguistic, and culinary layers to the nation.We examine how the struggles for equality, such as the abolitionist, women’s suffrage, and civil rights movements, have con...2025-02-1705 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - Westward Expansion - The New FrontierThe episode begins with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the nation's size and set the stage for exploration. Lewis and Clark’s expedition mapped this uncharted land, paving the way for settlers. As the belief in Manifest Destiny took hold, millions moved westward, fueled by government policies like the Homestead Act and driven by dreams of land and prosperity.The Oregon Trail became a symbol of adventure and struggle, as pioneers braved harsh conditions in pursuit of opportunity. The California Gold Rush of 1848 accelerated migration, bringing fortune seekers from across the world. The completion of the Tr...2025-02-0505 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The Bill of Rights and the First Amendments"The Bill of Rights and the First Amendments," we explore the origins and significance of the Bill of Rights. Ratified in 1791, these first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution were created to address public concerns about the potential for government overreach and to safeguard individual liberties.The episode highlights the role of James Madison in drafting the amendments, the influence of state declarations like Virginia’s, and the rigorous debates that shaped these protections. Key rights include freedoms of speech, religion, and the press, as well as protections against unwarranted searches, cruel punishments, and government abuse....2025-01-1404 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - Building a Nation - The U.S. Constitution"Building a Nation: The U.S. Constitution," we explore the creation of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. The episode examines the challenges faced by the fledgling United States under the weak Articles of Confederation, highlighting events like Shays' Rebellion that underscored the need for a stronger government.The Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia brought together visionary leaders like George Washington, James Madison, and Benjamin Franklin to design a new framework for governance. Through intense debates and compromises, including the Great Compromise on representation and concessions on slavery, the delegates crafted a system of checks and balances and a...2024-12-2405 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - Victory and the Treaty of Paris"Victory and the Treaty of Paris," we delve into the conclusion of the American Revolutionary War and the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783. The episode highlights the pivotal moments leading up to the treaty, including the decisive American victory at Yorktown in 1781, which signaled the beginning of the end for British control.We explore the complex negotiations in Paris, led by Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay, who secured remarkably favorable terms for the United States. The treaty officially recognized American independence, established expansive territorial borders, and granted access to valuable fishing rights.2024-12-1105 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA- The Revolutionary War - Struggles and Sacrifices"The Revolutionary War: Struggles and Sacrifices," we explore the hardships faced by soldiers and civilians during the American Revolutionary War. The episode highlights the challenges of the Continental Army, including poor supplies, brutal winters like those at Valley Forge, and overwhelming odds against the well-equipped British forces.We share personal stories, such as the resilience of Joseph Plumb Martin, the bravery of Molly Pitcher, and the contributions of figures like James Armistead Lafayette, showcasing the diverse sacrifices made by men, women, enslaved individuals, and Native Americans.Key moments, including the Battle of Saratoga and the...2024-11-2605 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The Declaration of Independence"The Declaration of Independence," we explore the creation and significance of the Declaration of Independence, a bold statement of self-determination that paved the way for American freedom. As tensions with Britain escalated, colonial leaders formed the Committee of Five—including Thomas Jefferson and John Adams—to draft a formal declaration. Inspired by Enlightenment ideals, Jefferson’s draft argued for the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.On July 4, 1776, Congress officially adopted the Declaration, committing 56 signers to a cause that risked their lives, fortunes, and honor. Figures like John Hancock and Benjamin Franklin took enormo...2024-11-0605 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The American Revolution BeginsThe episode highlights key events such as the Stamp Act, Boston Tea Party, and the Coercive Acts, showing how the colonists' frustrations with British rule escalated.We meet significant figures like Paul Revere, who warned of the British approach, and George Washington, whose leadership would become crucial. The episode covers the first battles of Lexington and Concord, where the "shot heard 'round the world" marked the official start of the Revolution. Ordinary people, like Sybil Ludington and Joseph Plumb Martin, are also featured, showcasing how the war impacted not only leaders but everyday citizens.The...2024-10-1707 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The Birth of the Thirteen Colonies"The Birth of the Thirteen Colonies," we explore the founding of the first American colonies, focusing on Jamestown and Plymouth. The settlers of Jamestown, established in 1607, faced extreme hardship, including starvation and conflict with Native Americans, before the colony’s fortunes improved through the cultivation of tobacco. Plymouth, founded by the Pilgrims in 1620, was driven by the quest for religious freedom. The settlers endured a harsh winter but survived with the help of local Native Americans, leading to the first Thanksgiving. These colonies, despite their struggles, laid the foundations for self-governance and the seeds of independence. This episode illustrates ho...2024-09-2907 min
Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern WorldUSA - The Discovery of the New WorldIn Episode 1 of "Nations Unveiled: The Formation of the Modern World," we explore the discovery of the New World in 1492 by Christopher Columbus. This episode details the motivations behind European exploration, including the search for new trade routes to Asia, and how Columbus’s voyage, sponsored by Spain, led to the unexpected discovery of the Americas. The episode highlights the profound consequences of this event, including the Columbian Exchange, the impact on indigenous populations, and the beginnings of European colonization, which set the stage for the formation of modern nations in the Americas.2024-09-1807 min