Two Roads Converge: Where Pop Culture Meets History

Halloween is quickly approaching, and what better way to celebrate than with this classic story? Whether you are a horror fanatic or simply curious about this famous monster, hit play! This episode explores the gothic novel, and some film and stage adaptations that have been released over the years. Below are some links that were used to help make this episode, and can help you learn more about...

You know Paris Hilton for her glitzy lifestyle, sparkly fashion and airheaded persona. So, you may be surprised to learn that underneath everything, there's a savvy businesswoman and lively entertainer, who has dealt with her share of hardships and challenges. This episode talks about Hilton's life and career, and will show you that she's never quite had a simple life. Below are some links that were used to help make this episode, and can help you learn more about Paris Hilton. Intro and...

Over the last 15 years, "The Office" has kept old fans and new viewers laughing. The TV show is full of silly pranks, mundane work routines and lasting relationships. This week's episode discusses the TV show itself, as well as some of actors to come out of it and the ways fans are still obsessing over the series today. Hopefully you'll learn some fun facts that you didn't see coming! Here's some links to learn more about the show, and that were used to create this...

Judy Garland dominated the screen throughout the Golden Age of Hollywood. Starring in films like "The Wizard of Oz" and "Meet Me in Saint Louis" solidified her celebrity status. But it wasn't always a smooth journey for the actress. In the midst of her career, she faced divorce, drug addiction, debt and more. Listen to hear more about Garland's life, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Sources used in this episode include: Biography.comE! True Hollywood DocumentaryA&E...

Dogs are known as man's best friend, but where are all of the cat lovers? While our cats at home can't hold conversations or crack jokes with us, the fictional cats in today's episode use their distinct personalities to make a splash through some beloved books, music and shows. If you're interested in learning more about the topics discussed on this episode, here are some sources I used while putting this episode together. Tom and...

From children's toys, to spooky court trials, to a groundbreaking Broadway musical, this week's episode explores how all these works center around historical events. For more information about the topics, check out these sources which were used in creating this episode. Salem Witch Trials The Crucible Arthur Miller on The Crucible Intro and outro music from bensound.com

Whether you are a history buff or not, historical fiction is in every aspect of pop culture. Some of the best films and stage productions are based on real-life events. This episode hones in on three historical events and how they found their way into different pieces of historical fiction. If you’re interested in diving deeper into some of today’s topics, here are some of the sources I used in this episode to learn more: Laura Ingalls Wilder Documentary (https://youtu.be/ujYl7Qa3xLA)...

With summer in full swing, all I want to do is lay out in the sunshine and dip my feet in the ocean. But in the real world, that's not always an option. This episode is a little ramble about some of the music, films and books about the beach that help dissolve some of my vacation cravings. If you're stuck far away from the sea like me, hopefully this makes you feel a little closer to the coast. (I do not own the rights for any of the music used. Intro and outro music is from bensound.com.)

Chances are high that at some point, you've read The Great Gatsby (or just watched the movie adaptation). It's noted as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century. While the book has been influential for decades, do you know much about the man that created the story? This episode dives into the highs and lows of F. Scott Fitzgerald's life, as well as the legacy of his writing. (Intro and outro music from bensound.com)

Donald Glover is a modern day renaissance man. He's made a successful career, from music, acting, writing and comedy. Learn more about his impressive work in the entertainment industry in this new episode. (I do not own the rights to any of the music used. Intro and outro music from bensound.com.)

Coffee is the drink we all know and love. We're used to it being the first beverage we sip in the morning and a strong part of our everyday routines. In this episode, we explore the ways coffee is incorporated into TV shows, movies, art and music. Pour yourself a fresh cup and listen to learn something new about one of your favorite drinks! I do not own the music used in this episode. Intro and outdo music provided by bensound.com

Nicholas Sparks is one of today's best romance writers. His novels, including "The Notebook," "A Walk to Remember" and "The Lucky One" earned their labels as bestsellers and have gone on to be adapted into award-winning films. But who is the man creating these stories? Tune in to this episode to learn more about this remarkable author and more of his work. I do not own any of the music used in this episode. Intro and outro music is from bensound.com.

Child stars have thrived for nearly a century. Some of Hollywood's top actors got their big break before learning how to drive a car or graduating from high school. In this episode, we'll talk about actors who were a wild success as children, and how their time in the spotlight influenced them later on in life. Check out these documentaries, where some of the information in this episode was found, for a more in-depth look at these...

We've all heard the "dumb blonde" stereotype used somewhere in movies, music or in plain conversation. Have you ever wondered where the expression came from and how it has been used over time? These are some of the questions answered in this week's episode. I do not own the copyright of the music used. Intro and outro music from bensound.com.

Gianni Versace went from a child in his mother's clothing shop to building a global fashion empire that continues to dominate the industry today. In this episode, we'll talk about his early life, success on the runway, his life coming to a tragic end, and more. Music from www.bensound.com.