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Beyond Mount Rushmore

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Beyond Mount Rushmore dives into the stories your history teacher definitely skipped. Each week, we explore forgotten presidents and their sketchy scandals, bizarre executive orders, and historic near-misses. Plus, facts so weird you'll think we made them up.

From FDR's final words, "I have a terrific headache," to Eleanor Roosevelt's lifelong "companion" in the White House, we're here to prove that history is anything but boring. Whether you're a hardcore history nerd or just love laughing at old dead guys' dumb decisions, buckle up for a wild ride through America's lesser-known past. New episodes drop every week—perfect for fans of dark humor, surprising trivia, and stories that Netflix wouldn't dare touch. Hosted by self-proclaimed presidential historian Stan Nawalaniec (owner of three Warren G. Harding bobbleheads) and co-host Jeff Hickcox (the voice of reason).

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  • 27 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 14 min
  • English

Episodes 27

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  • Monday · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - James Wilson Preview

    In this upcoming episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we delve into the life and legacy of James Wilson, a pivotal yet often overlooked figure among America's Founding Fathers. While some of our founding leaders have become legendary, Wilson's contributions to the formation of the United States and its government have faded from public memory. We explore his significant role in the rooms where America declared its independence and the foundational debates about who should hold power in our democracy. Despite a remarkable resume that should have made him unforgettable, Wilson's name has largely been forgotten. Join us as we uncover the story of James Wilson and discuss why he deserves a place in our collective memory.

  • September 14 · 31 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Theodore Roosevelt Jr, His fathers Son

    In this episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we delve into the life of Theodore Roosevelt's eldest son, a figure often overshadowed by his legendary father. We explore how this son spent much of his life in the background, but a pivotal moment on the battlefield and an act of courage transformed his legacy. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we uncover the story of a man who forever changed how history remembers the Roosevelt name. Tune in to discover the overlooked narratives that deserve to be unforgettable.

  • September 7 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Theodore Roosevelt Jr. Preview

    In this episode of "Beyond Mount Rushmore," we delve into the life of Theodore Roosevelt's eldest son, a figure often overshadowed by his legendary father. We explore how this son spent much of his life in the background, but a pivotal moment on the battlefield and an act of courage transformed his legacy. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we uncover the story of a man who forever changed how history remembers the Roosevelt name. Tune in to discover the overlooked narratives that deserve to be unforgettable.

  • August 31 · 26 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Aaron Burr, Treason Exile and the Long Fall​

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we are discussing the tumultuous aftermath of Aaron Burr's infamous duel. While many may think the duel marked the end of Burr's story, it actually set the stage for a dramatic fall from grace. Accused of treason and pursued by President Thomas Jefferson, Burr faced one of the most significant trials in American history, ultimately leading to his exile. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we explore the complexities of Burr's life and the events that shaped his legacy, revealing how the duel was just the beginning of a much larger narrative. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts! https://thepodcastplayground.com/beyond-mount-rushmore/

  • August 17 · 27 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Hamilton, Burr and the Duel that Shocked America

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the infamous duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton, a pivotal moment in American history. We explore the complex backdrop of their rivalry, which was fueled by years of political betrayal, damaged reputations, and deep-seated resentment. As we recount the events leading up to their fateful meeting on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River, we reflect on the lasting consequences of their confrontation. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we uncover the overlooked details of this historical clash and its impact on the nation. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • August 10 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Hamilton, Burr Preview

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the infamous duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton, a pivotal moment in American history. We explore the complex backdrop of their rivalry, which was fueled by years of political betrayal, damaged reputations, and deep-seated resentment. As we recount the events leading up to their fateful meeting on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River, we reflect on the lasting consequences of their confrontation. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we uncover the overlooked details of this historical clash and its impact on the nation. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • #36
    August 3 · 24 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Jefferson, Burr and the Election that Broke America

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing story of Aaron Burr, a pivotal figure in American history. We explore his near ascent to the presidency, which culminated in a dramatic election that ended in a tie. After 36 ballots, the nation finally elected a president, but the political fallout was significant, leading to a shattered friendship and the birth of a fierce rivalry. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we unpack the events that set history on a collision course and reveal the unforgettable moments that shaped our nation. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts.

  • July 27 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Jefferson, Burr and the Election that Broke America Preview

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing story of Aaron Burr, a pivotal figure in American history. We explore his near ascent to the presidency, which culminated in a dramatic election that ended in a tie. After 36 ballots, the nation finally elected a president, but the political fallout was significant, leading to a shattered friendship and the birth of a fierce rivalry. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we unpack the events that set history on a collision course, revealing the unforgettable moments that shaped our nation. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • S1 · E35
    July 20 · 31 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - From Frontrunner to Footnote

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing world of presidential campaigns that were derailed by pivotal moments. I'm Jeff Hickcox, alongside co-host Stan Nawalaniec, as we explore the stories of frontrunners and favorites who seemed destined for the White House until a single incident changed their trajectory. Whether it was a photograph, a word, a scream, a debate answer, or a repeated mistake, we examine how these moments not only altered the course of their campaigns but also revealed underlying sentiments among voters. Join us as we uncover the overlooked narratives of those who almost made it to the presidency, and discover how fleeting moments can have lasting impacts on history. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • July 13 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - From Frontrunner to Footnote Preview

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing world of presidential campaigns that were derailed by pivotal moments. I'm Jeff Hickcox, alongside co-host Stan Nawalaniec, as we explore the stories of frontrunners and favorites who seemed destined for the White House until a single incident changed their trajectory. Whether it was a photograph, a word, a scream, a debate answer, or a repeated mistake, we examine how these moments not only altered the course of their campaigns but also revealed underlying sentiments among voters. Join us as we uncover the overlooked narratives of those who almost made it to the presidency, and discover how fleeting moments can have lasting impacts on history. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • June 29 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - JFK The Brace The Bullets and Dallas Preview

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the intriguing secrets that surround every president, focusing on the political, personal, and historical implications of these hidden truths. We specifically explore a significant event that took place on a November afternoon in Dallas involving President John F. Kennedy and a concealed medical device. This episode raises questions about the potential impact of this device on the course of history, a topic that continues to spark debate among historians. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we uncover the overlooked details that make history unforgettable. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • June 15 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - Grant and Longstreet Preview

    In this episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we delve into the complex relationship between two pivotal figures in American history, exploring the decisions that shaped their lives and the nation. While history often highlights the battles fought, we aim to uncover the lesser-known narratives that preceded these conflicts. One of our subjects would rise to the presidency, while the other would face the consequences of their choices for the rest of their lives. Join us, Jeff Hickcox and Stan Nawalaniec, as we reveal the surprising legacies that have endured through time, reminding us that the overlooked stories are often the most unforgettable. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

  • May 18 · 1 min

    Beyond Mount Rushmore - The President Elected to Nothing Preview

    In this upcoming episode of Beyond Mount Rushmore, we're talking about the intriguing and chaotic moments in American history that led to a president assuming office without ever being elected. I, Jeff Hickcox, along with my co-host Stan Nawalaniec, explore the unexpected circumstances that enabled a man with no campaign and no election to take charge of the country. We discuss how the system functioned as it was designed to, yet it left many feeling uneasy about the legitimacy of this transition of power. Join us as we uncover the story behind this unusual political scenario and reflect on its implications. Tune in wherever you get your podcasts!

Showing 1–20 of 27 episodes