Shows
70 Years and BeyondNostalgia Trip: Toys That Made the 50s and 60s Awesome! [Episode #32]Summary:Wambui takes listeners on a delightful nostalgia trip, diving into the world of toys from the 1950s and 1960s, a golden age when imagination reigned supreme over screens and batteries. She reminisces about childhood classics like Mr. Potato Head, which was the first toy ever advertised on television, and the Easy Bake Oven, a tiny baking wonder that turned kids into miniature chefs using just a light bulb! As she explores various toys, Wambui also shares some eyebrow-raising examples, like the Gilbert U238 Atomic Energy Lab, which included actual uranium ore—yikes! From cherished family heirlooms li...2025-05-0512 min70 Years and BeyondSleepless in NYC: How Garbage Anxiety Keeps Me Up at NightShow Notes / SummaryGarbage anxiety is no joke, and Wambui’s lively storytelling brings this issue to the forefront in a way that’s both entertaining and relatable. As she reminisces about her simpler childhood in Greensboro during the 1950s, she contrasts it with her current life in New York City, where the rules around trash disposal can feel like a high-stakes game. The fear of being ticketed for a single misstep is real, with fines escalating to $200 for repeat offenders. Wambui shares her anxious ritual of preparing for garbage nights, where she feels the pressure to get...2025-04-2810 min70 Years and BeyondWhy Were We All Shiny? The Vaseline Effect [Episode #30]Summary:In this episode of 70 Years and Beyond, Wambui takes us on a delightful stroll down memory lane—back to a time when Vaseline was the go-to solution for all things skin. From shiny faces after Saturday night baths to last-minute “de-ashing” before church or errands, Vaseline wasn’t just in the medicine cabinet—it was a childhood ritual.With warmth and humor, Wambui reflects on how her mama—and just about everyone’s mama—used to slather it on with love. She also dives into the surprising origin of petroleum jelly and gently questions whether it belon...2025-04-2105 min70 Years and BeyondMilkman Memories: A Silver Box of Nostalgia [Episode #29]Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a delightful trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the charm of having a milkman deliver fresh milk right to her front porch—or, as she humorously clarifies, her “stoop.” She paints a vivid picture of her childhood in Greensboro, North Carolina, where a heavy silver box served as the designated spot for those glorious glass bottles of milk. Wambui fondly recalls the elusive Mr. Tonkins, the milkman, who she barely saw but whose presence was felt through those early morning deliveries. As she shares these nostalgic tales, she reflects on the simple joys of family...2025-04-1409 min70 Years and BeyondWaking Up to Smoke: How Wambui Dodged a Tech Disaster [Episode #28]Summary:Wambui kicks things off with a wild story about waking up to smoke billowing from her iPhone and a charred charging cable one Sunday morning. Talk about a shocking wake-up call! As she dives into her tale, she reflects on her nighttime habit of charging her phone near the bed, thinking she was being clever and safe. But as the smoke danced around her phone, she realized that her setup might not have been the smartest idea after all. With a mix of humor and gratitude, she shares how this little disaster turned into a moment...2025-04-0716 min70 Years and BeyondRevisiting the Day JFK Died: A Nostalgic Tale from 1963 [Episode #27]Wambui takes a heartfelt trip down memory lane as she recalls the moment that changed history: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. On that fateful day in 1963, she was just a 13-year-old seventh grader at Lincoln Junior High in Greensboro, North Carolina, blissfully unaware of the political storm brewing around her. Her youthful innocence is palpable as she shares how, like many, she believed the president would recover from the shocking news that he had been shot. However, as the day unfolded, the grim reality set in, and the weight of his death hit hard just as school...2025-03-3113 min70 Years and BeyondTales from Mom: Sammy's Hilarious Sunday Adventure! [Episode #26]Summary:Wambui shares a delightful tale that her mother used to tell her and her siblings, bringing a nostalgic touch to the podcast. The story revolves around Sammy, a boy with an incredibly quirky name, Sammy-Sammy-the-Hoo-Bone-the-Po-Bone-Sammy. He faces a classic dilemma when he decides to skip Sunday school to go fishing instead, leading to a series of humorous misadventures. As Sammy attempts to hide his fishing escapades from his parents, he ends up with a talking fish that adds a twist to his day. Through laughter and a sprinkle of mischief, the tale imparts a valuable lesson...2025-03-2412 min70 Years and BeyondAshtrays and Cigarettes: A Nostalgic Trip to the 50s and 60s [Episode #25]Summary:Wambui takes listeners on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, spotlighting the once-ubiquitous ashtray and its importance in the 1950s and 1960s. She reminisces about a time when smoking was as common as Sunday brunch, and ashtrays were practically a household essential, gifted to friends and family even if they didn’t smoke themselves. With a playful tone, Wambui shares stories about how smoking was integrated into daily life, from cars equipped with ashtrays to the creative designs of ashtrays that could fit any theme you could imagine. She also dives into the cultural shifts regarding sm...2025-03-1617 min70 Years and BeyondThrowing Papers and Making Memories: Wambui's Childhood Adventures [Episode #24]Wambui takes listeners on a delightful stroll down memory lane, sharing her cherished experiences of helping her brother with his newspaper route during the golden days of daily newspaper deliveries. Back in the '50s and '60s, when getting your news was as easy as stepping onto your porch, Wambui recalls the thrill of being part of something so integral to their community. She reminisces about the skills needed for the job—like mastering the perfect paper throw and knowing which houses to deliver to (and which to skip!). With a sprinkle of humor, she brings to life th...2025-03-1206 min70 Years and BeyondBehind the Curtains: Wambui's Fun Tales from Gone With The Wind [Episode #23]Wambui spills the beans on her unforgettable journey as Prissy in a musical adaptation of the classic film "Gone with the Wind." She dives into the chaos of auditioning with a headband to hide her newly blonde hair, which definitely didn't scream "slave" vibes. Despite some disappointments due to copyright restrictions on iconic lines, she shares hilarious anecdotes, including navigating this elaborate production featuring real horses and an unforgettable burning Atlanta scene. Wambui fondly reminisces about her co-stars and the camaraderie among the cast, even pointing out the quirks of a fellow dancer who never wore the same outfit...2025-03-1017 min70 Years and BeyondWambui Bahati: The Story Behind the Name [Episode #22]Wambui Bahati shares a delightful and humorous journey about how she came to embrace her new name, which means "singer of songs" and "my fortune is good." Born as John Ann Washington, Wambui recounts her mother's quirky predictions that led to her being named after a boy, causing a bit of confusion during her childhood. As she navigated through life, including a stint in the mental health system, Wambui realized it was time for a change—not just in her mindset but in her identity too. With a playful spirit, she embarked on the quest for a name that re...2025-03-0506 min70 Years and BeyondTV: Once the Love of My Life, Now Just Background Noise [Episode #21]Wambui dives into a fascinating journey of how one’s relationship with television can shift dramatically over the decades. Starting off as a kid enamored with the magic of TV—where shows like Captain Kangaroo and the Ed Sullivan Show felt like life’s greatest treasures—she reflects on how that childhood wonder faded into skepticism as she reached her senior years. With the wisdom of experience, she shares how her initial trust in the authority of news and entertainment morphed into a growing distrust, ultimately leading her to ditch the TV altogether. This transformation opens up a dialogue about th...2025-03-0215 min70 Years and BeyondWhen TV Shopping Became Therapy: Wambui's QVC Chronicles [Episode #20]Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a delightful trip down memory lane as she shares her fond recollections of the day QVC was born. She describes the excitement she felt watching the launch, calling it "the best idea since white bread" – and who doesn’t love a good slice of white bread? Wambui reminisces about how QVC showcased beautiful products and served as a lifeline during challenging times in her life, much like the 1-800 psychics who offered a listening ear to those in need. With a mix of nostalgia and humor, she recounts her personal experiences engaging with hosts and...2025-02-2715 min70 Years and BeyondHow Many Kids Fit in a 1950s Family Car? [Episode #19]The host dives into a nostalgic comparison of child safety between the carefree days of the 1950s and 1960s and today’s more structured environment. They humorously recall how families would squeeze into tiny cars without a single seatbelt in sight, with kids happily riding on laps or even laying on the floor, as safety was the last thing on anyone's mind. The conversation takes a playful turn as they reflect on the absence of protective gear during childhood adventures, contrasting it with today's kids sporting helmets and pads like miniature astronauts. The host emphasizes the importance of community ba...2025-02-2511 min70 Years and BeyondKool-Aid, Chips, and Crushes: My Dudley High School Party Chronicles [Episode #18]Remembering the weekend parties at Dudley High School in 1968 brings back a flood of good vibes and giggles! We dive into the wild world of house parties, where everyone seemed to know about them—even if they weren't technically invited. I made it my mission to hit every single party on the block, whether it was Friday or Saturday night, because who could resist the allure of chips, Kool-Aid, and a chance to dance? Sure, there was that one time I got turned away by a mom guarding the door like a bouncer at a club, but hey, that ju...2025-02-2109 min70 Years and BeyondPants? What Pants? A Stroll Down Memory Lane in School Dress Codes! [Episode #17]Looking back on school days, one thing stands out like a neon sign: our teachers had style! Seriously, you wouldn't catch them in jeans or sneakers; they rocked heels and smart attire, making us feel inspired just by walking into the classroom. We chat about how back in the day, teachers dressed to impress—not just for themselves, but for us too. It was all about setting a standard and showing us the importance of looking polished, whether we were off to class or a field trip. So, join me as we reminisce about the fabulous fashion of our ed...2025-02-1916 min70 Years and BeyondThe Sound of Sirens: Childhood in the Shadow of War [Episode #16]Wambui Bahati takes us on a heartfelt journey through her childhood and young adulthood shaped by the shadow of war. From the tense alarm drills of the 1950s to the heavy atmosphere surrounding the Vietnam War, Wambui reflects on the conflicting messages of peace versus conflict that colored her upbringing. She shares how, despite being taught that fighting solves nothing, the world around her continued to spiral into conflict. With vivid stories and poignant observations, Wambui dives into the complexities of war and its long-lasting effects on veterans and communities. Ultimately, she expresses a deep yearning for a world...2025-02-1512 min70 Years and BeyondFrom Hot Combs to Afros: A Hair-Raising Journey Through the 60s [Episode #15]Intro:Let’s dive into the fabulous world of hair! This episode is all about the journey of hair for Black women and girls, especially from the perspective of growing up in North Carolina in the 1950s. We kick things off with some amusing and sometimes painful memories of getting our hair pressed with a hot comb and dealing with the occasional ear burn—yikes! But as times changed, so did hairstyles, and we reminisce about the groundbreaking moment in the late 60s when some brave girls rocked their afros to high school. The excitement and shockwaves that...2025-02-1407 min
70 Years and BeyondDaddy 3 15 24…2025-02-1317 min70 Years and BeyondA Tribute to My Father: Genius, Poet, and a Man of Struggles [Episode #14]Join Wambui Bahati as she takes us on an emotional journey exploring the life of her father, a man who was so much more than the sum of his struggles. Despite battling alcohol addiction and facing societal constraints, he showcased extraordinary talents, from fixing TVs to writing unpublished poetry. Wambui shares heartwarming anecdotes that illustrate her father's creativity and love, painting a vivid picture of a man who, although often quiet, had a profound impact on those around him. His complex personality reveals the layers of pain and resilience that define family legacies. Tune in for a touching tribute...2025-02-1318 min70 Years and BeyondAunt Thelma's Unconventional Farewell: Choices, Dignity, and Humor [Episode #13]Aunt Thelma's story is a vibrant tapestry woven with style, grace, and a fiercely independent spirit. We dive into the colorful life of this remarkable woman from Goldsboro, North Carolina, who, despite the mysteries surrounding her romantic life, always dazzled with her impeccable fashion sense and love for costume jewelry. Thelma faced health challenges head-on, ultimately making the bold decision to forgo surgery for colon cancer, choosing instead to live her remaining days on her own terms. With an unwavering resolve and a sprinkle of humor, she even orchestrated her own farewell, leaving behind specific instructions for her funeral—be...2025-02-1217 min70 Years and BeyondMom's Fierce Love: The Day I Drank from the Wrong Fountain [Episode #12]Wambui Bahati takes us on a powerful journey back to her childhood in Greensboro, North Carolina, during the turbulent times of Jim Crow laws in 1958. At just eight years old, she faced the harsh realities of racial segregation when she unknowingly drank from a "whites only" water fountain while shopping with her mom. The panic and confusion that ensued, coupled with her mother’s fierce reaction, highlight the everyday challenges that African American families navigated during this era. Wambui's story not only reveals the complexities of a segregated society but also showcases the incredible strength and resilience of parents wh...2025-02-1006 min70 Years and BeyondMom, a White Man, and Midnight: A Journey of Love and Acceptance [Episode #11]Wambui Bahati takes us on an unforgettable midnight adventure as she introduces her future husband to her mother in North Carolina, highlighting the delicate dance of love and secrecy in the face of societal tensions. In a time when interracial relationships were often met with raised eyebrows, Wambui’s mom cleverly orchestrates a late-night rendezvous to keep their visit under wraps. Picture this: a cozy gathering filled with mouthwatering homemade dishes, where the warmth of family and the complexities of acceptance collide. As Wambui shares her heartfelt story, we delve into the challenges of bridging cultural divides, all while en...2025-02-0911 min70 Years and BeyondPancakes, Perseverance, and Pivotal Moments in '68 [Episode #10]Step into the spring of 1968 with Wambui Bahati as she shares a poignant yet uplifting story from her senior year at James B. Dudley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina. Amidst the emotional backdrop of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Wambui's quest for independence leads her to Tex and Shirley's Pancake House, marking the beginning of her journey in the workforce. This video recounts the sting of realization when faced with the harsh realities of racial barriers. Yet, Wambui's resilience shines through as she navigates these challenges, ultimately finding joy and pride in her work and later...2025-02-0908 min70 Years and BeyondHow I Found Out My Grandma Died: A Bus Station Revelation [Episode #9]What a rollercoaster of emotions we’ve got today! We’re diving into a heartfelt story about how I found out my grandmother had passed away—definitely not the kind of news you expect to get while waiting for a bus. Picture this: it's 1969, the Christmas holidays, and I'm all pumped to reunite with my family after my first college semester. But things take a turn when I’m on my way back to New York, and a confused little man with a heavy Southern drawl suddenly drops the bombshell that my grandmother has died. Talk about a bittersweet holiday...2025-02-0806 min70 Years and BeyondThe Great Front Porch Interview: "My Mother Should Have Been The Border Czar" [Episode #8]Wambui Bahati takes us on a delightful trip down memory lane with her heartwarming tale about her mother's quirky yet effective "Front Porch Interview" ritual. This entertaining yet insightful process wasn't just about welcoming newcomers; it was a full-on investigation that could put a detective to shame! Picture this: before anyone could step foot inside their home, Wambui's mom would fire off a barrage of personal questions, making sure she knew exactly who was who in the neighborhood. And if that wasn’t enough, she’d follow up with a trusted friend to confirm the newcomer’s credentials—talk about co...2025-02-0704 min70 Years and BeyondSundays in the '50s & '60s: Family, Faith, and Magnolia Trees [Episode #7]Step back in time with Wambui Bahati as she shares her cherished memories of typical Sundays during her childhood in Greensboro, NC, during the 1950s and 1960s. From the Saturday preparations of shopping and cooking for a grand Sunday meal, reminiscent of today's Thanksgiving feasts, to the rituals of getting dressed in their Sunday best for church and Sunday school, each moment is a snapshot of a bygone era. Wambui also recounts the scenic shortcut through Bennett College campus, sprinkled with magnificent magnolia trees, that she and her siblings took to church. This video is a heartfelt journey into...2025-02-0610 min70 Years and BeyondDialing Up Love: How Cell Phones Changed the Dating Game [Episode #6]Wambui dives into the fascinating world of dating pre-cell phone era, revealing how the technology of the telephone transformed the way people connect romantically. Back in the day, if you wanted to receive a call from that special someone, you had to be glued to your home phone—literally! No texting, no missed calls, just good old-fashioned waiting by the phone and making sure your family didn’t hog the line. The pressure was on, as young folks had to navigate the delicate dance of communication, often inventing excuses just to stay home for a potential phone call. Wambui’s play...2025-02-0605 min70 Years and BeyondFrom Party Lines to Pocket Phones: A Nostalgic Chat [Episode #5]Summary:Wambui takes a delightful stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the wild ride of phone evolution—from those clunky rotary phones that practically doubled as furniture to today’s sleek cell phones that everyone seems to have glued to their hands. She humorously reflects on how, back in the day, the biggest concern before leaving the house was making sure you had your keys, not your phone, and how long-distance calls could create family feuds fiercer than any soap opera plot twist! Remember party lines? Wambui shares some hilarious anecdotes about eavesdropping on neighbors’ conversations and the un...2025-02-0611 min70 Years and BeyondTransforming Vision: My Affordable Eyeglass Fashion Journey [Episode #3]Wambui presents her fabulous eyeglass fashion show, shining a light on where to snag stylish and affordable frames! Having only embraced the glasses game for the last six months, she shares her journey from occasional reader glasses to fully dependent on them—like a cat with a laser pointer! After a bit of eyewear drama, including stepping on her glasses (oops!), she discovered Zenni, an online treasure trove where she could upload her prescription and choose from a delightful selection of frames. With prices as low as $69 for a pair, Wambui couldn’t resist ordering multiple pairs, each with thei...2025-02-0309 min70 Years and BeyondMy Go-To NYC Shoes: Surviving the City Streets in StyleWambui shares her delightful adventures navigating life in New York City as a spirited adult in her 70s, emphasizing the essential role of her trusty boots in her daily escapades. These shoes aren't just a fashion choice; they're her steadfast companions for tackling the bustling streets and unpredictable subway rides. She humorously recounts her disdain for open-toed shoes, citing her fear of surprise encounters with the city's infamous rodents and mysterious puddles. Wambui's practical approach to footwear shines through as she explains how her boots provide both comfort and protection, no matter the season. With a charming blend of...2025-02-0303 min70 Years and BeyondWambui Bahati: The Legacy of a 1964 9th-Grade Report Card [Episode #4]Wambiui brings a delightful twist to the podcast as she shares a peek into her past with her ninth-grade report card from 1964. With a friendly vibe, she reminisces about her school days at Lincoln Junior High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, and reveals the charming details of what those report cards meant back then—like the importance of parental signatures and school-community ties that kept everyone in check. She strolls down memory lane, sharing a few giggles about her early teenage antics and how she transformed from a chatty student to one who "thinks for herself." As she examines he...2025-02-0307 min70 Years and BeyondA Peek into the Past: Life as a Kid in 1950s North Carolina [Episode #1]Wambui Bahati takes listeners on a nostalgic ride through her childhood in Greensboro, North Carolina, during the vibrant 1950s. She paints a picture of her typical school day, starting with a hearty breakfast prepared by her mom, who believed in fueling her kids right with a spread of Rice Krispies, eggs, and biscuits. As she recalls walking to school each day, Wambui highlights the differences between her smaller annex school for African American children and the larger school where the white kids attended, complete with all the fun playground equipment and a cafeteria. After school, she shares the freedom...2024-03-1405 min
Hometown HomicideEp. 20: Bizarre News #1Sarah has had the idea to bring you multiple short but bizarre news stories for an episode & decided that now is the time! Welcome to Hometown Homicide's first installment of Bizarre News! Six little news stories from around the Midwest that may very well make you say, "What the f*ck?!" Let us know what y'all think!Sources:Man Had Sex With Car's Tailpipe And Kept Going After Police Arrived, Cops Say | Crime News (weirldnews.com)Ejaculating On Your Colleagues' Food Is Not A Sex Crime In Minnesota | HuffPost Weird News...2022-04-1836 min
"You Don't Know Crazy"Don’t Forget the Good Things – YDKC43Often, it is easier for us to recall the bad things or the things that didn't go right in our lives than it is to remember the good things.
I was feeling uneasy about some classes I wanted to take. After sharing my feelings with my daughter, I realized I was feeling uncomfortable with my decision to take the classes because I was associating this new adventure in my life with a similar old event that did not turn out good for me.
I followed some instructions in a book I was reading entitled, "Basic Principles of the Science of...2013-11-1913 min"You Don't Know Crazy"Holiday Stress? No Thank You -YDKC42I talk about the coming holidays and how stressful holidays can be. I also state that unlike taxes, we don't have to do holidays. We can choose to celebrate or not celebrate in a manner that feels good to us.
I also speak about the fact that that I was raised in a Baptist church and our family celebrated Christmas. I talk about the anger I felt when I found out my gifts didn't come from Santa. I felt betrayed by adults and never trusted them the same after that. I vowed that when I grew up and I had...2013-11-1222 min"You Don't Know Crazy"Crazy for Me – YDKC41This is not the podcast I was planning to do on this day. When I attempted to record the podcast I was going to do, none of my recording devices and gadgets that I normally use would work. Therefore, I decided to use material that was already recorded. This podcast is the introduction track to a CD I recorded a few years ago entitled, "Crazy for me - How I Got Over Bipolar Disorder and Other Life Stuff". It is not a singing CD -- in this CD I am still talking. LOL!
In this recording I share what it...2013-11-0509 min"You Don't Know Crazy"Domestic Violence & Relationship Abuse, Go Away! -YDKC40October is "Domestic Violence Awareness Month". I believe what we focus on we create more of. Therefore, I am not going to dwell too long on this topic at this time. However, I do feel that it is important for people to be aware that domestic violence and relationship abuse is prevalent and is a real challenge in our communities.
Also, understand that men as well as women sometimes find themselves in abusive relationships. An average of three people are killed in this country every day as a result of a domestic violence incident.
In this episode I address what...2013-10-2921 min