Shows
What's Old is NewsCanada's National DebtThis week, Sean Graham talks with Angela Tozer, author of The Debt of a Nation: Land and the Financing of the Canadian Settler State, 1820-73. They discuss how governments take on debt, the purpose of debt, and how colonialism fuelled land speculation. They also chat about how resource extraction was critical to servicing debt, the changes brought on by Confederation, and the on-going legacy of 19th century national debt.Historical Headline of the Week "Debt Management Strategy for 2020-21," Department of Finance Canada.
2026-01-1548 min
What's Old is NewsTeenage ConsumersSean Graham talks with Katherine Rollwagen, author of The Scramble for the Teenage Dollar: Creating the Youth Market in Mid-Century Canada. They discuss the creation of the 'classic' teenager, how marketing shifted to attract young people, and how much family considerations shaped advertisements. They also chat about Eaton's, how it attracted teenagers to the store, and the legacy of mid-century marketing today.Historical Headline of the WeekAll Things Considered, "How Tech Companies Are Catering to Generation Z Teens," NPR, November 27, 2017.
2025-12-1141 min
What's Old is NewsWomen UnitedThis week Sean Graham talks with Peggy Nash, one of the co-authors of Women United: Stories of Women's Struggles for Equality in the Canadian Auto Workers Union. They discuss women's contributions to the union in its early years, how negotiating priorities were shaped, and the Second World War's influence on the labour movement. They also chat about the impact of the Autopact and free trade on labour, women's leadership in the modern labour movement, and what it's like to be in the room negotiating against an employer.Historical Headline of the WeekRené Morisette, "Unionization i...
2025-12-0545 min
What's Old is NewsCanadian Armed Forces PurgeSean Graham talks with Lynne Gouliquer and Carmen Poulin ahead of their Shannon lecture on Monday November 24 entitled "Purging the Canadian Military of 'Sexual Deviants': The War on 2SLGBTQIA+ Members and Their Partners from the 1960s to Present.' They talk about the administrative order that established the policy of purging homosexuals from the military and how it was executed. They also discuss Lynne and Carmen's research, their interviews with members who were purged, and the long-term implications on families.Historical Headline of the WeekBrian Bradley, "She was among those purged from Canada's military...
2025-11-2242 min
What's Old is NewsRuss Moses' Residential School MemoirThis week, Sean Graham talks with John Moses ahead of his November 3 Shannon Lecture entitled 'This is not my story, but yours: The Russ Moses residential school memoir.' They discuss his father's experiences at the Mohawk Institute, his military service, and Reconciliation. You can hear John talk about the memoir on Monday November 3 as part of the Shannon Lecture Series.Historical Headline of the WeekJustin Chandler, 'Woodland Cultural Centre, Ex-Residential School Turned Museum, Draws Hundreds Aiming to Learn and Share Truths,' CBC, September 30, 2025.
2025-11-0338 min
What's Old is NewsWomen UnitedSean Graham talks with Peggy Nash, one of the co-authors of Women United: Stories of Women's Struggles for Equality in the Canadian Auto Workers Union. They discuss women's contributions to the union in its early years, how negotiating priorities were shaped, and the Second World War's influence on the labour movement. They also chat about the impact of the Autopact and free trade on labour, women's leadership in the modern labour movement, and what it's like to be in the room negotiating against an employer.Historical Headline of the WeekRené Morisette, "Unionization in Canada, 1981 t...
2025-10-1045 min
What's Old is NewsMilitary ExperimentationSean Graham talks with Matthew S. Wiseman, historian of science and medicine in modern Canada. They discuss why militaries engage in scientific research, the civilian benefits of that research, and how scientists navigated their research during the Cold War. They also chat about research consent within a military environment, the challenges of researching the Cold War era, and the legacy of scientific research in the mid-20th cenetury,Matthew will be the delivering the second session of the Shannon Lecture series on Monday October 6 entitled 'Cold War Consent? Military Experimentation and Research Ethics in Mid-Century Canada.'
2025-10-0238 min
What's Old is NewsMilitary ExperimentationSean Graham talks with Matthew S. Wiseman, historian of science and medicine in modern Canada. They discuss why militaries engage in scientific research, the civilian benefits of that research, and how scientists navigated their research during the Cold War. They also chat about research consent within a military environment, the challenges of researching the Cold War era, and the legacy of scientific research in the mid-20th cenetury,Matthew will be the delivering the second session of the Shannon Lecture series on Monday October 6 entitled 'Cold War Consent? Military Experimentation and Research Ethics in Mid-Century Canada.'
2025-10-0238 min
What's Old is NewsWomen in the Canadian ForcesAs part of our series with the 2025 Shannon Lecture Series, Sean Graham talks with Sarah Hogenbirk, who will deliver the opening lecture on Monday entitled 'Fighting for Their Place and Recognition: Canadian Servicewomen and Women Veterans in Post-Second World War Canada. The lecture will serve as a launch for Cold War Workers: Labour, Family, and Community in a Nuclear State, in which Sarah has a chapter entitled "Constructing the Military Career Woman, 1950s-60s." They discuss the legacy of women's Second World War service, how the Cold War impacted women's service, and the differences between the three armed services...
2025-09-1947 min
What's Old is NewsEricka Huggins, Black Panther WomanSean Graham talks with Mary Frances Phillips, author of Black Panther Woman: The Political and Spiritual Life of Ericka Huggins. They talk about the process of writing a historical biography of a living person, tracking down new archival sources, and how Ericka Huggins ended up in prison. They also chat about COINTELPRO plots and how Ericka ended up in prison, her spiritual journey and self-car in prison, and how her story serves as an example for other activists.Historical Headline of the WeekAmanda Font, "How the Black Panthers Shaped U.S. Schools," KQED, November 14, 2024.
2025-06-2043 min
The PulseTeen Democracy Advocate & Nanaimo Hospital Expansion"Send us a text about this episode!"This PULSE podcast episode features remarkable teen democracy advocate Janelle van Dongen and Parksville City Councillor Sean Wood discussing critical healthcare infrastructure needs at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.This Episode Features:(15:42) Teen Democracy Champion Janelle van Dongen shares her extraordinary journey from interviewing MPs in grade 3 to representing British Columbia at the Forum for Young Canadians. Janelle discusses founding "100 Kids for Change" and working as a deputy returning officer, proving that Vancouver Island youth are leading civic engagement despite not being old...
2025-06-1744 min
What's Old is NewsPhiladelphiaSean Graham talks with Paul Kahan, author of Philadelphia: A Narrative History. They talk about the city's origins, its connection to the American Revolution, and how the city's history is distinct from the national story. They also chat about community, Philadelphia's political history, and the local culture. Historical Headline of the WeekNancy Steinbach, "Philadelphia: A City Famous for its History," Voice of America, March 9, 2025.
2025-06-1448 min
GroundbreakersThe 10x ROI Power of Cost Segregation: How Sean Graham Uses This Strategy to Boost Indefinitely Defer TaxesEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Groundbreakers, Sean Graham, founder of Maven Cost Segregation, breaks down the most overlooked wealth-building tool in real estate: cost seg. After getting laid off in 2020, Sean transitioned into real estate full-time—starting with his own deals before launching a firm that now saves investors millions in taxes every year.He shares how one property generated $400K in tax savings, why ROI should be measured in depreciation, and what most syndicators miss when it comes to maximizing after-tax returns.Key Points DiscussedFrom W2...
2025-06-1041 min
What's Old is NewsBay Area Outing ProgramSean Graham talks with Caitlin Keliiaa, author of Refusing Settler Domesticity: Native Women's Labour and Resistance in the Bay Area Outing Program. They discuss the residential schooling system in the United States, the goal of outing programs, and Indigenous young women and girls' domestic labour as part of the program. They also chat about the community built by the women, how they resisted in their workplaces, and program's legacy.Historical Headline of the WeekCecily Hilleary, "Indian Boarding Schools 'Outings': Apprenticeships or Indentured Servitude?" Voice of America, November 14, 2021.
2025-06-0445 min
The PulseSean McCann’s Road Trip & Father’s Day Car Show"Send us a text about this episode!"This PULSE podcast episode celebrates Vancouver Island community spirit through the legendary Father's Day Car Show Qualicum Beach. Featuring Jim Moroz of Seaside Cruisers discussing the 32nd annual charity event, plus Great Big Sea co-founder Sean McCann sharing his inspiring 10,000-kilometer Canadian unity tour across the nation.This Episode Features:(10:39) Jim Moroz, Seaside Cruisers organizer, shares the incredible impact of the Father's Day Car Show Qualicum Beach, which attracts over 500 classic cars and 20,000 visitors annually. Moroz explains how this beloved Vancouver Island...
2025-06-0345 min
What's Old is NewsKosher MeatSean Graham talks with John M. Efron, author of All Consuming: Germans, Jews, and the Meaning of Meat. They discuss the relationship between Jewish culture and meat consumption, the unique relationship between Germans culture and Jewish meat, and how that has been depicted over the years. They also chat about the cultural significance of meat and meat production, displays of anti-Semitism related to meat and meat production, and the current discussions surrounding Kosher and Halal meat in Germany.Historical Headline of the WeekJames McAuley, "Why Halal meat generates so much controversy in Europe," Washington...
2025-05-2946 min
What's Old is NewsFort McKay Métis NationSean Graham talks with Peter Fortna, author of The Fort McKay Métis Nation: A Community History. They talk about the origins of the Nation, which is located in northeastern Alberta, the community connections between the Métis and First Nation, and how colonial government structures have influenced community relationships. They also discuss the role of resources and resource extraction in the economic history of the nation, the significance of the trapline system, and Peter's motivation to make the book open access.Historical Headline of the WeekChris Nelson, "Fort McKay Métis Nation builds boo...
2025-05-2143 min
What's Old is NewsRace & Psychiatry in Slavery's WakeSean Graham talks with Judith Weisenfeld, author of Black Religion in the Madhouse: Race & Psychiatry in Slavery's Wake. They discuss about the origins of the book, how the antebellum period shaped perceptions of African American religion, and the role of 'religious excitement' in insanity diagnoses. They also chat about the connections between race and religion, the pathologizing of religion by professional psychiatrists, and the legacy of this era.Historical Headline of the WeekMark Moran, "Faith Communities Are Potent Resources for Creating Connection and 'Mattering'," Psychiatric News, December 9, 2020.
2025-05-1445 min
What's Old is NewsFree Trade & Cultural DiplomacySean Graham is joined by Sarah E.K. Smith, author of Trading on Art: Cultural Diplomacy and Free Trade in North America. They talk about Sarah's interest in cultural diplomacy, what constitutes art in the context of free trade, and how cultural policies shaped artistic and curatorial expression at the end of the 20th century. They then discuss art as a form of resistance, the benefits and challenges of touring exhibitions across countries, and how contemporary questions on trade have influenced the book.Historical Headline of the Week"Mexico says Canada wishes it had its...
2025-05-0752 min
What's Old is NewsJohn Turner,With the Canadian election days away, Sean Graham revisits his 2022 conversation with Steve Paikin about his biography John Turner: An Intimate Biography of Canada's 17th Prime Minister. They talk about Turner's lengthy career, which spanned the decriminalization of homosexuality and abortion, stagflation, and free trade. They also discuss Turner’s career, legacy, and what we can learn about modern politics from studying Canada’s 17th Prime Minister.Historical Headline of the WeekRobert Libman, "Will John Turner's Fate Befall Mark Carney?" Montreal Gazette, March 1, 2025.
2025-04-2543 min
What's Old is News1921 Canadian ElectionSean Graham talks with Barbara Messamore, author of Times of Transformation: The 1921 Canadian General Election about one of Canada's turning point elections. They discuss the post-war economy's, including tariffs, role in the campaign, how suffrage influenced the election, and the emergence of William Lyon Mackenzie King on the national stage. They also chat about whether the lauded 'ballot question' truly exists, how historians and political scientists can differ in their approach to elections, and the legacy of the 1921 campaign.Historical Headline of the WeekJamie Bradburn, "Canada's first female MP and the federal election that...
2025-04-1047 min
What's Old is NewsAbsintheSean Graham talks with Nina Studer, author of The Hour of Absinthe: A Cultural History of France's Most Notorious Drink. They talk about the drink's origins, its cultural importance in France, and its consumption by French soldiers. They also chat about the class distinctions associated with the drink, how gender dynamics influenced its perception, and the absinthe's an in France in 1915.Historical Headline of the WeekAlice Fisher, "Return of the green fairy: once-notorious absinthe enjoys UK revival," The Guardian, November 15, 2024.
2025-04-0248 min
What's Old is NewsSerafim 'Joe' FortesSean Graham talks with Ruby Smith Diaz, author of Searching for Serafim: The Life and Legacy of Serafim 'Joe' Fortes. They discuss Ruby's introduction to Serafim's story, how she went about researching the book, and some of the challenges she faced in the process. They also chat about how Ruby's artistic background shaped the book's structure, the importance of telling the whole story, and the impact the broader socio-cultural context had on his life.Historical Headline of the WeekAshley Moliere, "Vancouver's first lifeguard Joe Fortes died 100 years ago. What can be learned from his...
2025-03-2638 min
What's Old is NewsPolitical Party Leaders' RolesSean Graham is joined by Amanda Bittner, author of Platform or Personality: The Role of Party Leaders in Elections. They talk about how polling data is used, partisan voting patterns, and the role of leaders in swaying voters. They also discuss policies v. personalities, the significance of branding leaders, and the challenges of attracting people to politics.Historical Headline of the WeekDouglas Todd, "Why Canadian journalists are entering politics at a rapid rate," Vancouver Sun, January 2, 2025.
2025-02-191h 06
What's Old is NewsSteamship Empress of AsiaSean Graham is joined by Dan Black, author of Oceans of Fate: Peace and Peril Aboard the Steamship Empress of Asia. They talk about the ship's earliest voyage following its 1913 commissioning, its service during the First World War and the Chinese Labour Corps, and its refitting after the war. They also talk about its interwar service, its sinking during the Second World War, and how the ship's history is best told through the story of those who were on-board.Historical Headline of the WeekJohn Mackie, "Historic Chinese, Canadian Pacific Railway and Klondike Collections Unite...
2025-02-1254 min
What's Old is NewsIndigenous Art & ReconciliationSean Graham is joined by Eugenia Kisin, author of Aesthetics of Repair: Indigenous Art and the Form of Reconciliation. They discuss what qualifies as 'art', how the intent shapes understanding of cultural materials, and how works are commoditized. They also chat about artistic agency, the impact of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and the value of having time to reflect on research before writing.Historical Headline of the WeekBen Fenlon, "B.C. Indigenous coffee company brews truth, reconciliation, one cup at a time," The Williams Lake Tribune, December 27, 2024.
2025-02-0546 min
What's Old is NewsExeter Book RiddlesSean Graham is joined by Jennifer Neville, author of Truth is Trickiest: The Case for Ambiguity in the Exeter Book Riddles. They discuss the background of the riddles, who may have transcribed them and why, as well as the challenge of deciphering their meaning. They also talk about the literary tradition behind the riddles, the various interpretations and arguments surrounding potential answers, and what they can tell us about the nature of literature both 1,000 years ago and today.Historical Headline of the WeekJo Livingstone, "What do our oldest books say about us?" The New...
2025-01-2948 min
What's Old is NewsNon-Professional TheatreSean Graham is joined by Robin C. Whittaker, author of Alumnae Theatre Company: Nonprofessionalizing Theatre in Canada. They discuss the establishment of the Alumnae Theatre Company and its place as Canada's longest-running women-led theatre group, how the group survived its early years, and the place of non-professional theatre in 20th century Canada. They also chat about the economics of amateur theatre, the challenges of writing original productions, and the legacy of Canada's non-professional theatres.Historical Headline of the WeekJoshua Chong, "A glimpse inside Canada's independent theatre sector, the forgotten lifeblood of the arts," Toronto...
2025-01-2251 min
What's Old is NewsMass ConfinementSean Graham talks with Aidan Forth, author of Camps: A Global History of Mass Confinement. They talk about the definition of camps, the commonalties among camps, and the ubiquity of mass confinement. They also talk about studying these sites across cultures, how echoes of past camps inform modern confinement, and the continuing legacy of camps.Historical Headline of the WeekNurith Aizenman, "What World War II taught us about how to help starving people today," NPR, April 19, 2024.
2025-01-1550 min
What's Old is NewsMonuments & National BelongingSean Graham is joined by Tonya Davidson, author of Inside the Snow Globe: Ottawa Monuments and National Belonging. They discuss Tonya's approach to monuments as a primary source, how publics respond to monuments, and how national monuments fit into local communities. They also talk about some of Ottawa's less known monuments, how memorials change public spaces, and how current events can alter a city's relationship with monuments and their sites.For more, you can listen to Sean and Tonya's previous conversation on the History Slam from 2018.Historical Headline of the WeekTim Cook, "...
2025-01-0951 min
What's Old is NewsResidential Schools in the NorthSean Graham is joined by Crystal Gail Fraser, author of By Strength, We Are Still Here: Indigenous Peoples and Indian Residential Schooling in Inuvik, Northwest Territories. They discuss the lesser known story of northern residential schools, conducting oral history with survivors, and the Gwich'in concepts of individual and collective strength. They also chat about the significance of the Inuvik's school construction in 1959, the resistance to the system from students and their communities, and the legacy of residential schooling across the region.Historical Headline of the WeekJenna Dulewich, ''Long Overdue': Inuvik, N.W.T., looks...
2024-12-1249 min
What's Old is NewsCoincidencesSean Graham is joined by Stephen Osborne, author of The Coincidence Problem: Selected Dispatches 1999-2022. They talk about Stephen's involvement in the launch of Geist magazine, what makes a good dispatch, and why the format is good for storytelling. They also discuss coincidences, how to write about them, and what makes them so entertaining.Historical Headline of the WeekKeegan Kozolanka, "New Erin logo's similarity to others is a 'coincidence', says branding company," Guelph Today, September 13, 2024.
2024-12-0633 min
What's Old is NewsWorkplace Sexual HarassmentSean Graham is joined by Bonnie Robichaud, author of It Should be Easy to Fix. They discuss the timeline of her Supreme Court case calling for justice, her reaction to the case taking so long, and having other women reach out to her throughout the process. We also chat about the decisions leading to the Supreme Court case, the problem with non-disclosure agreements, and her advice for anyone going through a similar circumstance.Historical Headline of the WeekSean Previl, "Nearly half of women in Canada report workplace harassment," Global News, February 12, 2024.
2024-11-3044 min
What's Old is NewsDeclassified Soviet ArchivesSean Graham talks with Cristina Vatulescu, author of Reading the Archival Revolution: Declassified Stories and Their Challenges. They talk about the Soviet archives that have been declassified over the past 20 years, how to approach newly available material, and how trustworthy the Soviet documents can be. They also discuss the individuals who were followed by the Soviet police as well as those who were creating the documents, how the material changes our understanding of the Soviet Union, and how historians can approach future declassifications.Historical Headline of the WeekTimothy Andrews and Susan Colbourn, "Canadians will...
2024-11-2148 min
What's Old is NewsWomen's HockeySean Graham is joined by Ian Kennedy, author of Ice in their Veins: Women's Relentless Pursuit of the Puck. They talk about the challenge of finding sources for early women's hockey, the sport's development in the first half of the 20th century, and some of the challenges faced by women's hockey pioneers. They then discuss Ian's oral history interviews, the introduction of women's hockey in the Olympics, and how the PWHL changed the book's ending.Historical Headline of the Week"6 PWHL teams added to EA Sports video game NHL 25 to be released Dec. 5," The Canadian...
2024-11-1449 min
What's Old is NewsAlaska, Indigenous Resilience, & the Second World WarThis week, Sean Graham talks with Holly Miowak Guise, author of Alaska Native Resilience: Voices from World War II. They talk about the lived memory of the Second World War in Alaska, the American occupation of Alaska, and the diversity of the local population. They also discuss local community responses to the war, forced relocation, and how colonial structures shaped the post-war experiences of those who fought.Historical Headline of the WeekZachariah Hughes, "Researchers locate and photograph 3 undersea shipwrecks, remnants of bloody WWII battle for Attu," Anchorage Daily News, August 4, 2024.
2024-11-0745 min
What's Old is NewsDeath MasksWith Halloween here, Sean revisits his 2013 conversation with the University of Glasgow's Sabine Wieber about death masks. They talk about the artistic meaning of the masks and how they affected people’s understanding of death. They also chat about the material culture nature of the masks and how she deals with what would generally be considered a dark topic.Historical Headline of WeekHayley Campbell, "How Death Masks Blur the Lines Between Art, Mourning, and Remembrance," Literary Hub, August 24, 2022.
2024-10-3150 min
What's Old is NewsWomen in TelevisionSean Graham talks with Jennifer Clark, author of Producing Feminism: Television Work in the Age of Women's Liberation. They discuss the role of women in the television in the 1970s, the ways in which women organized, and how societal changes were reflected in the industry. They also chat about the challenges of finding women in the archives, how production changes made their way to the screen, and the legacy of women's labour in television during this era.Historical Headline of the WeekChris Gardner, "Gender-Balanced Hiring Dips for Women Working in Television, Study Finds," The...
2024-10-1652 min
What's Old is NewsMisinformationSean Graham talks with Bethany Kilcrease, author of Falsehood and Fallacy: How to Think, Read, and Write in the Twenty-First Century. They discuss the assumption that young people are well prepared for online misinformation, increased accessibility of quality sources, and the pros and cons of gatekeepers’ reduced power. They also chat about the CRAAP test, the benefits of short-form online writing, and proving causation.Historical Headline of the WeekAngela Haupt, "9 Ways to Respond to Political Misinformation," Time, October 9, 2024.
2024-10-1059 min
What's Old is NewsIslam in Popular CultureSean Graham talks with Rosemary Pennington, author of Pop Islam: Seeing American Muslims in Popular Media. They discuss how Ms Marvel contributed to the book's origins, what forms of media are included in the book, and how stereotypes of Muslims are perpetuated in popular culture. They also chat about the challenges faced by Muslim stand-up comedians, how reality show editing influences perceptions, and how popular culture reflects society at large.Historical Headline of the WeekAnika Steffen, "'Ms Marvel' treats being Muslim as ordinary - and that makes it extraordinary," NPR, June 17, 2022.
2024-10-0247 min
What's Old is NewsTelevision & American CultureSean Graham talks with Molly Schneider, author of Gold Dust on the Air: Television Anthology Drama and Midcentury American Culture. They talk about the origins of television anthologies, the transition from radio, and their popularity among audiences. They also discuss the role of anthologies in reflecting American culture, pushback from audiences and studios, and the legacy of anthologies and what they tell us about the significance of television programs.Historical Headline of the WeekJoshua Rothman and Erin Overbey, "How TV Became Art," The New Yorker, August 28, 2017.
2024-09-251h 07
What's Old is NewsAirports & Local HistorySean Graham is joined by Eric Porter, author of A People's History of SFO: The Making of the Bay Area and an Airport. They talk about the importance of airports, telling local stories through the airport, and how battles over airports speak to questions of power. They also get into the specifics of San Francisco's airport, how its development shaped the city and region, and some of the major milestones in SFO's history.Historical Headline of the WeekTim Fang, "City files motion to stop OAK airport from using 'San Francisco Bay' name," CBS News...
2024-09-1859 min
What's Old is NewsPrince RupertSean Graham talks with Blair Mirau, author of The City of Rainbows: A Colourful History of Prince Rupert. They talk about the benefits of the city's geography, the impact of colonialism on local Indigenous communities, and the different eras in the city's history. They also discuss Prince Rupert during the world wars and Great Depression, its challenges through the second half of the 20th century, and how the city's history speaks to local histories across the country. Historical Headline of the Week"Prince Rupert port to get busier with $1.35B gas export plant," The Canadian...
2024-09-1146 min
What's Old is NewsLetters of the First World WarSean Graham talks with Marth Hanna, author of Anxious Days and Tearful Nights: Canadian War Wives During the First World War. They discuss Martha's entry into the world of First World War letters, the challenge of tracking down letters from over 100 years ago, and how women on the front lines managed their relationships with significant others fighting the war. They also chat about censorship of letters, the challenge of what to share and what to hide from your spouse during the war, and what happened to relationships following the war.Historical Headline of the Week...
2024-09-041h 02
What's Old is NewsSkatesThis week Sean revisits a 2017 discussion with Jean-Marie Leduc, noted expert on skates, and the principal author of Lace Up: A History of Skates in Canada. They talk about Mr. Leduc's skate collection, why he wanted to write a book, and the cultural significance of sports on ice in Canada.Historical Headline of the WeekDarren Bernhardt, "Brandon-made Tackaberry skate - Tacks - recognized for national historic significance," CBC, October 19, 2022.
2024-08-3051 min
Redwolf PodcastsThe Conversation (Series 3 Episode 2) Billy Mcmanus & Mark Sykes: Sean Graham Bookmakers' MassacreBilly McManus and Mark Sykes speak about the Sean Graham’s Bookmakers’ Massacre and last week’s incursion into the small nationalist enclave of the Lower Ormeau Road by elements of the far-right and Loyalism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2024-08-1435 min
What's Old is NewsSmokingSean Graham is joined by Daniel Robinson, author of Cigarette Nation: Business, Health, and Canadian Smokers, 1930-1975. They discuss Daniel's initial interest in studying smoking culture, the increase in smoking rates in the 1930s and 1940s, and the initial studies linking cigarettes to cancer in the 1950s. They also chat about the industry's and government's response, the social side of smoking, and the cultural significance cigarettes in Canada.Historical Headline of the WeekAurelia Foster, "What is the UK smoking ban, how will it work and when will it start?" BBC, April 23, 2024.
2024-07-0843 min
What's Old is NewsSchool of RacismSean Graham is joined by Catherine Larochelle, author of School of Racism: A Canadian History, 1830-1915, which is also available in French. Recorded live in Montreal, they discuss Catherine's study of educational materials, the challenge of studying the history of schools, and the importance of exploring the history of both French and English language materials. They also chat about how colonialism influences curricula, how colonial ideas shape classroom programming, and the difficulty in confronting deeply engrained ideas.Historical Headline of the WeekSam Thompson and Daisy Woelk, "'Shock and disbelief' after Manitoba school trustee's Indigenous...
2024-06-2835 min
What's Old is NewsPassportsSean Graham is joined by Patrick Bixby, author of License to Travel: A Cultural History of the Passport. They talk about the origins of the modern passport, the reaction to its introduction, and how artists and writers responded. They also chat about the role of the nation state in immigration, the relative value of nations' passports, and what the document tells us about its holder.Historical Headline of the WeekKanis Leung, "Hong Kong Invokes a New Law to Cancel Passports of 6 Overseas-Based Activists, Including Nathan Law," Associated Press, 12 June 2024.
2024-06-1857 min
What's Old is NewsHow Prime Ministers Influence IdentitySean Graham is joined by Raymond Blake, author of Canada's Prime Ministers and the Shaping of National Identity. They discuss the role of the Prime Minister, how mass media changed the office, and the ways in which Prime Ministers have influenced national identity. They also chat about how international affairs shape domestic discussions, how the length of a government shapes public perceptions, and how retail politics influence conversations on identity.Historical Headline of the WeekErna Paris, "Canada's Multiculturalism is our Identity," Globe & Mail, April 27, 2018.
2024-06-1156 min
What's Old is NewsWine & WarSean Graham welcomes Adam Zientek, author of A Thirst for Wine and War: The Intoxication of French Soldiers on the Western Front. They chat about how wine became a staple of French rations in the First World War, the perceived benefits of wine, and how it was transported to the front lines in such large quantities. They also discuss perception of liquor compared to wine, the role of alcohol in French mutinies, and the cultural legacy of wine's role during the First World War in France.Historical Headline of the WeekBrigit Katz, "Hundreds of...
2024-06-051h 01
What's Old is NewsThe Curious Case of Canadian TelevisionSean Graham talks with Jennifer VanderBurgh, author of What Television Remembers: Artifacts and Footprints of TV in Toronto. They discuss the challenge of studying Canadian television, how to find old programs, and why television researches often rely on the public. They also talk about Toronto as a television Canada's television production centre, how the city stands in for other locations, and how that shapes what Canadians see on their screens. Historical Headline of the WeekKate Taylor, "For CBC fans, TV history is just out of reach," Globe & Mail, June 2, 2017.
2024-05-2857 min
What's Old is NewsWomen's Sports & IdentitySean Graham is joined by Michelle J. Manno, author of Denied: Women, Sports, and the Contradiction of Identity. They talk about Michelle's personal experience with collegiate basketball, how personal identity mixed with team identity in sports, and how players navigate contested spaces. They also discuss how coaches police players' identities, the role of Title IX, and how players assert agency within college sports.Historical Headline of the WeekShireen Ahmed, "WNBA's Toronto Expansion will help Amplify Culture of Women's Basketball in Canada," CBC Sports, May 15, 2024.
2024-05-2159 min
What's Old is NewsThe Canadian MindWe're back with Season 2 of What's Old is News and to kick it off, Sean Graham is joined by Andy Lamey, author of The Canadian Mind: Essays on Writers or Thinkers. They talk about Canadian literature in the second half of the 20th century, where nationalism fits into the story, and the how literary critics treated Canadian writing. They also chat about questions related to identity, language, and legacies and major literary figures.Historical Headline of the WeekBob Weber, "Vast Digital Trove of Recordings by Canadian Literature Greats Nears Completion," Canadian Press, November 4, 2023.
2024-05-1439 min
What's Old is NewsDisability ActivismSean Graham talks with Dustin Galer, author of Beryl: The Making of a Disability Activist. They talk about Beryl Potter's entry into activism, how the 1970s public debates influenced her campaigns, and the financial challenges faced by disability activists. They also chat about Beryl Potter's personality and public encounters, her television program, and how many of the challenges she fought against persist in 2023. For further context, be sure to visit some of the activist organizations that continue to push for disability rights and accessibility.Historical Headline of the WeekRhianna Schmiunk and Michelle Ghoussoub, "Air...
2023-11-2947 min
What's Old is NewsFood Security in the NorthSean Graham is joined by Kristin Burnett and Travis Hay, authors of Plundering the North: A History of Settler Colonialism, Corporate Welfare, and Food Insecurity. They discuss the geographic parameters of the 'North,' the challenges faced by northern communities, and the origins of food insecurity. They also chat about the colonial structures that have created the problem, how communities are trying to challenge these systems, and the resulting political and economic implications.Historical Headline of the Week"U.N. Reviews High Food Insecurity Rates in Canada's Northern Territories," APTN News, August 31, 2023.
2023-11-2347 min
What's Old is NewsChaotic '35 CampaignSean Graham talks with David MacKenzie, author of King and Chaos: The 1935 Canadian General Election. They talk about the value of studying elections in history, the economic conditions leading into the election, and the fractured political environment at the time. They also discuss the leadership of R.B. Bennett, William Lyon Mackenzie King, J.S. Woodsworth, and William Aberhart, how foreign policy influenced the campaign, and the election's legacy.Historical Headline of the WeekMichael Gates, "History Hunter: Martha Black - Yukon Lady Parliamentarian," Yukon News, April 16, 2023.
2023-11-091h 05
What's Old is NewsResidential Schools in Labrador & NewfoundlandSean Graham talks with Andrea Procter, author of A Long Journey: Residential Schools in Labrador and Newfoundland. They talk about how the residential schooling system there differed from Canada's in the early 20th century, student experiences at the schools, and how communities responded. They also discuss reconciliation in Labrador, why the province wasn't included in the initial national apology, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Healing and Commemoration Project. And be sure to check out the Them Days archives, where all the royalties for the book are being donated.Historical Headline of the WeekHealing and...
2023-10-1143 min
What's Old is NewsThe AsianadianIn this episode, Sean Graham talks with Angie Wong, author of Laughing Back at Empire: The Grassroots Activism of The Asianadian Magazine, 1978-1985. They talk about the magazine's origins, its regular features, and how it built community across the country. They also discuss how it was funded, how it fit within the rise of conservatism in the 1980s, and its legacy nearly 40 years after its final edition. Historical Headline of the Week Winston Ma, "I Was Ashamed of Being Chinese Until I Learned About my Ancestors' First Years in Canada," CBC, May 30, 2023.
2023-09-1453 min
What's Old is NewsBuilding LGBTQ2+ Communities in RestaurantsAlex Ketchum, author of Ingredients for Revolution: A History of American Feminist Restaurants, Cafes, and Coffeehouses, joins Sean Graham to talk about the book and how these sites build communities. They chat about what constitutes a "feminist' restaurant, the cultural significance of food, and how the cafes' business imperatives sometimes conflicted with their ideals. They also discuss the need to protect patrons, the role of racial discrimination, and how these sites are critical in the face of recent legislation.You can follow Alex's work on Twitter, Instagram, and through The Feminist Restaurant Project.Historical Headline of the...
2023-06-2948 min
What's Old is NewsFighting Racism Through SportSean Graham is joined by Ian Kennedy, author of On Account of Darkness: Shining Light on Race and Sport, which explores how athletes from Chatham-Kent in southwestern Ontario fought racial discrimination through sports. They discuss Ian's interest in sports, Chatham-Kent's history as a terminus of the underground railroad, and why sports are a powerful tool for social change. They also talk about the Chatham Coloured All-Stars and Fergie Jenkins, the difference between amateur and professional sports, and the future of activism in sports.You can keep up with Ian's work on Twitter and at The Hockey NewsHistorical Headline of the...
2023-06-2245 min
What's Old is NewsFilm in CanadaFor over a century, Canadians have maintained a love affair with Hollywood, both as producers and consumers. This week, we look at how that has played out with Mary Graham, author of Stunning Backdrop: Alberta in the Movies, 1917-1960, and Michael Gates, author of Hollywood in the Klondike: Dawson City's Great Film Find. We discuss the presence of the American film industry in Canada, how films portrayed Canada, and the industry's role in colonialism.Historical Headline of the Week'North Island Students Reeling in Film Training," Campbell River Mirror, March 9, 2023.
2023-03-2339 min
What's Old is NewsFamily Immigration to CanadaAuthors Linda Peterat (From Denmark to the Cariboo: The Epic Journey of the Lindhard Sisters) and Michael Andruff (The Russian Refugees: A Family's First Century in Canada) join Sean to talk about how familial stories can shape our understanding of immigration to Canada. They discuss their respective stories, the push/pull factors that contribute to immigration, and the challenges families faced once in Canada. They also discuss immigration and colonialism, how factors like gender and education influenced newcomers' experiences, and the legacy of these stories.Historical Headline of the WeekIrem Koca, "Turkish Diaspora Urges...
2023-02-1550 min
What's Old is NewsSport & (De)ColonizationJanice Forsyth, author of Reclaiming Tom Longboat: Indigenous Self-Determination in Canadian Sport, talks with Sean about the Tom Longboat Awards and the role of sport in the story of colonization. They discuss Janice's history as a past winner, the importance of sporting role models, and mainstream sports' role in colonial structures. They also chat about how the media tells athletes' stories and the role of traditional sports and games in decolonization.Historical Headline of the WeekBobby Hristova, "Indigenous Teens Hope Return of Lacrosse to Canada Games will Inspire Future Generations," CBC News, August 6, 2022.
2023-01-261h 07
What's Old is NewsCo-operative AgricultureCatharine Wilson joins Sean to talk about the history of co-operative work bees in rural Canada. Communal events to complete big projects in short amount of time, work bees are representative of rural Canadian culture and are the subject of Catharine's new book Being Neighbours: Cooperative Work and Rural Culture, 1830-1960. They chat about community in rural areas, how work bees were organized, and their legacy today.Be sure to check out the Rural Diary Archive and the People's Archive of Rural Canada.Historical Headline of the WeekStephanie Rogers, "Why Many Atlantic...
2023-01-1942 min
What's Old is NewsNazi Prisoners of War in CanadaNathan M. Greenfield, author of Hanged in Medicine Hat: Murder in a Nazi Prisoner-of-War Camp and the Disturbing True Story of Canada's Last Mass Execution, joins Sean Graham to talk about POW camp 132 in Medicine Hat. They talk about how the camp came to be, the prisoners' relationship with the local community, and the internal culture that developed at the site. They also discuss the Nazi influence in the camp, the murder of two prisoners, and the resulting trial and execution.For more, you can read Nathan's editorial "When was it Unjust to Kill Seven Nazi Soldiers...
2023-01-1243 min
BallSh!t | Ball Python Industry PodCast | EbNMedia.tvBallsh!t ~ Off Topic Tuesday LIVE with Sean & Graham Battison | Northwest Constrictors UKHere’s some SALTY SH!T… Join Sean as he has an earlier show than usual interviewing someone that gives even LESS fucks than himself, Graham Battison!! This is sure to be a fun crossover the pond since Graham is a salty cunt from the UK! Hopefully this LIVE EPISODE doesn't get banned from YouTube... SHOULD BE A STUNNER! WELCOME OUR NEWEST HEADLINE SPONSOR... THE OFFICIAL SHIPPER of the BALLSH!T PODCAST ~ Reptiles2You https://www.reptiles2you.com **COUPON CODE FOR SHIPPING** Create an account on reptil...
2023-01-062h 39BallSh!t | Ball Python Industry PodCast | EbNMedia.tvBallsh!t ~ Off Topic Tuesday LIVE with Sean & Graham Battison | Northwest Constrictors UKHere’s some SALTY SH!T… Join Sean as he has an earlier show than usual interviewing someone that gives even LESS fucks than himself, Graham Battison!! This is sure to be a fun crossover the pond since Graham is a salty cunt from the UK! Hopefully this LIVE EPISODE doesn't get banned from YouTube... SHOULD BE A STUNNER! WELCOME OUR NEWEST HEADLINE SPONSOR... THE OFFICIAL SHIPPER of the BALLSH!T PODCAST ~ Reptiles2You https://www.reptiles2you.com **COUPON CODE FOR SHIPPING** Create an account on reptil...
2023-01-062h 39
What's Old is NewsNational Film Board & NatureSean Graham talks with Michael Clemens, author of Screening Nature and Nation: The Environmental Documentaries of the National Film Board, 1939-1974. They discuss the origins of the NFB, its approach to portraying the environment, and the influence of federal politicians. They also chat about the filmmakers who documented Canadian wildlife, how the films changed over time, and some of the best picks for people to watch today.If you want to watch some of the films discussed, you can check them out on the NFB website:Cree Hunters of MistassiniDeath of a...
2023-01-0557 min
What's Old is NewsBody Image ActivismSean talks with Jenny Ellison, author of Being Fat: Women, Weight, and Feminist Activism in Canada. They talk about the origins of fat activism, the strategies used by activists, and the tensions with second wave feminism. We also talk about fitness and healthy eating campaigns, the role of fashion, and the entrepreneurship of some activists.Historical Headline of the WeekFat's not Where It's At, Participaction Commercial, 1984More InformationWell Rounded Documentary
2022-12-2953 min
What's Old is NewsIndian Boarding School NewspapersSean is joined by Jane Griffith, author of Words Have a Past: The English Language, Colonialism, and the Newspapers of Indian Boarding Schools to talk about the significance and legacy of Indian boarding school newspapers. They talk about why schools published newspapers, who the intended audiences were, and the information they did not include. They also discuss the power of language, colonial efforts towards linguicide, and the legacy of how language was policed in residential schools.Historical Headline of the WeekVictoria Daily Colonist, "Indian Schools Deal out Death," November 16, 1907.If you’re ex...
2022-12-2254 min
What's Old is NewsThe Importance of the PastFor as long as people have been doing history, there have been debates over how to best share the stories of the past. In recent years, this has revolved around discussions over teaching history and ways to better engage people with the history that shapes our daily lives. In this episode, Sean Graham explores these themes with Trilby Kent, author of The Vanishing Past: Making the Case for the Future of History. They discuss the ways in which history is taught across Canada, the importance of historical knowledge within public life, and ways historians can move beyond the insular...
2022-12-1556 min
What's Old is NewsSubstance Use, Overdose Deaths, & Shared HumanitySean Graham explores the history of substance use disorders and overdose deaths in Canada, which have regularly be presented through a moral lens. By othering those experiencing substance use disorders, policymakers have created an environment where ensuring support is available to users and their families is not a priority. To highlight the importance of approaching this issue with humanity, Sean is joined by Tara McGuire, author of Holden After and Before: Love Letter for a Son Lost to Overdose. In telling the story of her son, Tara honours him while also sharing their collective story. Poignant and powerful, the...
2022-12-0139 min
What's Old is NewsJohn Turner & Political LeadershipIn this episode, Sean is joined by Steve Paikin of TVO's The Agenda to talk about Prime Minister John Turner, whose lengthy career spanned the decriminalization of homosexuality and abortion, stagflation, and free trade. They discuss Turner's career, legacy, and what we can learn about modern politics from studying Canada's 17th Prime Minister.Be sure to check out Steve Paikin's new biography John Turner: An Intimate Biography of Canada's 17th Prime Minister.Historical Headline of the Week:"John Turner Maps his Future" - Maclean's, September 17, 1984
2022-11-2444 min
History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 10th Anniversary Special: Life as HistoriansBy Sean Graham
On July 11, 2012, we released the first episode of the History Slam Podcast. It featured my conversation with Ian Milligan, which we recorded at the 2012 CHA Annual Meeting at the University of Waterloo, where Ian is now a full professor. The idea behind the show was simple: what if I talked to interesting people doing interesting historical work? I always wondered how faculty keep up with trends in the field and figured this could be a good way for me to maintain a broad understanding of where history and historical research was going.
...
2022-07-071h 27History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 220: Canada’s Abortion HistoryBy Sean Graham
Last Friday, the United States Supreme Court made its much anticipated decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization case. In the majority opinion, the court overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which ruled that the privacy clause in the U.S. Constitution protected a woman’s right to an abortion. In the week since, there have been protests across the United States in response. In Canada, there has been similar protests and great concern not only for what this will mean for Americans, but also the future of abortion rights in Can...
2022-06-301h 11History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 219: Canadiana & Historical Storytelling on the WebBy Sean Graham
Back in the summer of 2017, a new web series was released on YouTube. Telling viewers that they were on the hunt for the “most incredible stories in Canadian history,” Canadiana was a new type of Youtube channel. A documentary-style series, Canadiana combines archival and secondary research with outstanding visual elements to provide audiences with wonderful storytelling. And while the first season was bootstrapped by its creators, through its success in finding a big audience they have been able to secure additional funding and partnerships to expand and improve what was already a quality show. This s...
2022-06-2345 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 218: Local Culture, Tourism, & PEI’s Summer TradeBy Sean Graham
After two down years, tourism is rebounding as we head into the summer. From long lines at airports to rental car shortages to sold out hotels, there is a strong, pent up demand for travel. This is welcome news to communities where hospitality is the main economic driver as employees return to work and prepare to again welcome visitors.
One such location is Prince Edward Island, which welcomed 1.6 million tourists in 2019, contributing an estimated half billion dollars to the provincial economy. The two full years since have seen drastic decreases to those...
2022-06-1651 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 217: Storytellers, Colonialism, and Community in the Chilcotin PlateauBy Sean Graham
For every strong, thriving community, there are people actively keeping it alive at its centre. Whether that’s hosting events, checking in on others, or sharing the living memory of the place, these individuals build an environment where stories are shared and passed to the next generation. But when they’re gone, what happens to their stories? Who is there to take that central role in the community? Especially in some of Canada’s rural areas, where younger people are increasingly moving to urban centres, there is a threat to the longstanding regional cultures, storie...
2022-06-0240 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 216: Heroin & the History of Canada’s Drugs Laws & UseBy Sean Graham
In recent years, there has been no shortage of news stories on opioids and overdose deaths in Canada. What tends to be missing from these reports, however, is the historical context that shapes public understanding of these issues. The legal, social, and cultural processes that have shaped both access and perception of drugs and drug use in Canada require a critical assessment as communities across the country work towards reducing lethal outcomes.
A good source for that context comes in Susan Boyd’s new book Heroin: An Illustrated History. In tracing the hi...
2022-05-261h 00History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 215: Provincial Political Trends & Saskatchewan’s Transition from Left to RightBy Sean Graham
In the past two years, 7 provinces and territories have held elections, with Quebec and Ontario holding campaigns this year. And if that wasn’t enough, Jason Kenney’s resignation earliere this week further thrust provincial politics into the news. While campaigns and leadership changes generate plenty of interest, the pandemic has served as an important reminder of just how influential provincial/territorial governments are in our daily lives. At the same time, following provincial politics outside where you live, in particular during election campaigns, offers a great lens into local priorities and cultural differences acros...
2022-05-1947 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 214: Indigenous Voices, Resources, & Learning in Canadian ClassroomsBy Sean Graham
In its final report, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission included several Calls to Action regarding education. One of these was to develop and implement learning resources for all students in Canada so that more Indigenous voices, perspectives, and approaches were included in provincial and territorial curricula. As we’ve seen, however, some efforts to do this have not gone well. Fortunately, with better resources being made available to teachers, so many of whom are exhausted from over two years of pandemic teaching, the situation is slowly improving.
One such resource for teachers is...
2022-05-1238 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 213: Colonial Violence, National Myths, & the Lynching of Louie SamBy Sean Graham
On February 24, 1884, Louie Sam, a Stó:lo teenager, was accused by an angry mob of starting a fire that killed James Bell, a shopkeeper in the settler community Nooksack, in what is now Whatcom County, Washington, which borders British Columbia. Without any evidence, the assembled mob determined that Sam was responsible and, despite him being arrested by Canadian authorities, crossed the border, took him by force, and hanged him. Nobody was ever arrested for Sam’s death, which simultaneously stands a rare documented lynching in Canada as well as a powerful example of the vio...
2022-05-0640 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 212: Bernie Langille’s Death and the Long Journey Towards Truth, Healing, & TrustBy Sean Graham
*Bernie Langille Wants to Know What Happened to Bernie Langille has its World Premiere on Saturday April 30 at 8:30 at TIFF Bell Lightbox 4 as part of Hot Docs. You can also watch online from anywhere in Canada for 5 days starting May 1.
On a cold February night in 1968, Bernie Langille drove his friends to play darts and have a drink at CFB Gagetown. The next morning, his wife found him bloody and bruised in bed without knowing what happened. He was taken to the base’s hospital where it was recommended he be flown to...
2022-04-2843 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 211: Marcel Marceau, Movement, & the Art of SilenceBy Sean Graham *The Art of Silence is debuting as part of Hot Docs in Toronto, showing at 2:45 on Monday May 2 and 8:30 on Sunday May 8. The film can also be streamed in Canada for five days starting May 3. In 2022, mime is probably not what you think of when discussing popular culture. The image of... Read more »
2022-04-2135 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 210: Inter-Generational Healing & Love in Scratching RiverBy Sean Graham I always thought that I was alone in connecting my personal surroundings to those I was researching. From the First World War soldier who wrote about loving and missing going to the theatre to the CBC producer who hated the number of memos they got, relating to people from the past and connecting them to our current... Read more »
2022-04-1437 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 209: The Impact of R. Buckminster Fuller’s Visit to London in From Remote StarsBy Sean Graham In 1968, American architect R. Buckminster Fuller visited London, Ontario. Known for his geodesic domes, Fuller spent his time in the city meeting with students, artists, and industrial planners at Western. For years, Fuller’s visit has been part of the city’s lore, a moment in time where the city attracted praise from a one of the world’s... Read more »
2022-04-0743 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 208: The Story of Yonge St, a City’s Transformation, & The Heart of TorontoBy Sean Graham If you’ve visited Toronto for any length of time, you’ve probably found yourself on Yonge St. Starting on the shores of Lake Ontario, the street includes theatres, the Eaton Centre, the Air Canada Centre, and one of the city’s subway lines. Every day, thousands of people head to the street to work, shop, and socialize. As with... Read more »
2022-03-311h 02History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 204: Cultivating CommunityBy Sean Graham Each year, fall fairs fill schedules in communities across the country. While in recent years, plenty of attention has been given to the increasingly absurd food items that are sold, the fairs have retained some of their agricultural roots. Held in the fall to celebrate the harvest, fairs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries were... Read more »The post History Slam 204: Cultivating Community appeared first on Active History.
2022-02-1755 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 203: Flying to ExtremesBy Sean Graham If you read any edition of the Year in Review (100 Years Later) series, you’ll notice that I, to the great frustration of my co-author Aaron Boyes, insist on including advancements in aviation each year. There is something that I find completely riveting about flying – that we can get into a metal tube and a few... Read more »The post History Slam 203: Flying to Extremes appeared first on Active History.
2022-02-1047 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 202: The Racial MosaicBy Sean Graham In October 1971, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau delivered a statement in the House of Commons to announce that multiculturalism was now an official government policy. Based on the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism, which had been appointed in 1963, the intent of the policy was to both recognize the contributions of diverse ethnic... Read more »The post History Slam 202: The Racial Mosaic appeared first on Active History.
2022-02-0452 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 201: A Canadian Canine War HeroBy Sean Graham In 2011, War Horse hit screens around the world. Telling the story of a British teenager’s horse being purchased by the military for service in the First World War, the film grossed over $175 million worldwide. Based on a 1982 novel, the story has also been successfully adapted to the stage and is probably the best known medium through... Read more »The post History Slam 201: A Canadian Canine War Hero appeared first on Active History.
2022-01-2739 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 200: Disruption & Disorientation in Queer Community SportsBy Sean Graham The Tokyo Olympics this past August set a new record for the number of out LGBTQS2+ athletes competing. When the 2022 Beijing games kick off in a couple of weeks, it’s likely that a new record will be set for the winter games. The increased visibility and support for out athletes has been mirrored at the grass... Read more »The post History Slam 200: Disruption & Disorientation in Queer Community Sports appeared first on Active History.
2022-01-2046 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 199: The Making of a MuseumBy Sean Graham In this episode of the History Slam, I talk with Judith Nasby, former Director of the Macdonald Stewart Art Centre/Art Gallery of Guelph and author of The Making of a Museum. We discuss the gallery’s style (1:51), the challenges facing smaller museums (5:21), and how a dedicated space changed the gallery’s prospects (14:12). We then chat about... Read more »The post History Slam 199: The Making of a Museum appeared first on Active History.
2022-01-1338 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 198: AtacamaBy Sean Graham In the 10 years that we’ve been doing the History Slam Podcast, I’ve learned that there is no correct way to tell historical stories. Over the years we’ve talked with playwrights, musicians, and literary authors about the ways in which they tell accurate (and moving) stories from the past within their respective media. One of my favourites to... Read more »The post History Slam 198: Atacama appeared first on Active History.
2022-01-0635 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam Special: Best of 2021By Sean Graham Before we put 2021 to bed later tonight, I wanted to look back at some of the great conversations we’ve had on the History Slam this year. The past 12 months have not been the easiest for anyone, but I’ve been so energized by the discussions, insights, and expertise that has been part of the show. So... Read more »The post History Slam Special: Best of 2021 appeared first on Active History.
2021-12-3130 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 197: History Podcaster RoundtableBy Sean Graham When we started the History Slam back in 2012, podcasting was still pretty new. The major platforms were hosting shows, but the analytics weren’t very good, many people had difficulty accessing episodes, and a lot of academics – including every faculty member I talked to before starting the show – didn’t take them seriously, with one even... Read more »The post History Slam 197: History Podcaster Roundtable appeared first on Active History.
2021-12-161h 13History Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 196: Becoming VancouverBy Sean Graham The first time I was fortunate enough to visit Vancouver, it was October and the weather was unseasonably cold. It was a damp cold – the type that feels like it sticks to you – so I spent 4 days struggling to get warm. Having lived in Regina since that initial visit to the west coast, I... Read more »The post History Slam 196: Becoming Vancouver appeared first on Active History.
2021-12-0938 minHistory Slam – Active HistoryHistory Slam 195: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People & How to Fix ItBy Sean Graham During the election campaign this fall, the major political parties all included Reconciliation in their platforms. Yet in the past couple of weeks, the protests around the country in support of the Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs have served as another example of how far there is to go towards meaningful Reconciliation. As Bruce McIvor notes, this will be a... Read more »
2021-12-0243 min
Amidst The ChaosHow To Get Your Spouse On Board When Starting a Business, with Dana's Husband Sean GrahamWhen it comes to quitting your job and starting a small business as a mom, your spouse is likely going to have something to say about it. In this episode, I walk through my journey in entrepreneurship with my husband Sean to get his insight and mindset from the beginning of my photography business to now. He tells us his reservations at the beginning, how he was able to overcome them, and some things he did to encourage and support me along the way. If you're having a hard time getting your spouse on board as you plan to...
2021-04-1557 min