Next Podcast April 2, 2025
The next live podcast will be on April 2, 2025.
Mar 05, 2025•10 sec•Ep. 129
Calling History: Listen In on Conversations with History’s Most Influential People.
The Calling History Podcast is an unscripted, interview style phone conversation with the heroes, the villains, and the great thinkers of history. It’s an opportunity to ask them anything, in their time, while they are living it.
How did Benjamin Franklin feel about leaving his comfortable life of fame and excess in London as a loyal British citizen to risk it all and return to America as a rebel? How did record setting Louise Thaden feel about racing and beating Amelia Earhart and yet her name is almost unknown? Who is Jack the Ripper and why did he enter the scene so violently and then disappear like a whisper?
Subscribe now and join this entertaining, interesting, and unpredictable journey back in time as we learn who these people really were and answer the question, “If you could call anyone in history, what would you ask them?”
Episodes
William Shakespeare Part 2: The Words Will Outlive Us.
In Part 2 of the 1616 conversation with William Shakespeare, He’ll explain how and why he moved an entire building in the dead of night. He’ll share what he was doing during his “Lost Years.” And he’ll talk about Faries, Witches, and occasionally poaching a deer. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- How is it that after all these years that William Shakespeare and his words still impact us. It would be a monumental task to channel all that brilliance allowing us to have this conversat...
Feb 26, 2025•44 min•Ep. 128
William Shakespeare Part 1: These Words Mean Nothing, Until They Are Spoken.
On April 22, 1616, William Shakespeare was at his home in Stratford when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Shakespeare will talk about drinking ale and eating cake. He’ll explain why his wife got the second-best bed in his will. And he’ll tell us how he was able to compete with bears fighting dogs next door. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- How is it that after all these years that William Shakespeare and his words still impact us. It would be a monumental...
Feb 19, 2025•50 min•Ep. 127
George Custer Part 2: The Army is the Last Form of Diplomacy
In Part 2 of the 1876 conversation with George Custer, he will talk about the battle (or massacre) at Washita. He’ll explain why he rode onto the battle wearing a red scarf, and why he is unlikely to ever run for president. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Google, Apple, or your favorite provider. ----- Steve Alexander is a distinguished actor, author, and living historian renowned for his portrayal of George Armstrong Custer. His deep commitment to authenticity has earned him r...
Feb 12, 2025•47 min•Ep. 126
George Custer Part 1: There are not Enough Indians in the World to Defeat the Seventh Cavalry.
On April 20, 1876, George Custer was at the 1876 Centennial Exhibit when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Custer will share what inspired him to join the military in hopes of finding a life of adventure. He’ll explain why did didn’t get kicked out of WestPoint despite receiving more than 700 demerits. And he’ll share his role at Gettysburg that might have been a turning point in the civil war. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite provider....
Feb 05, 2025•52 min•Ep. 125
Samuel Adams Part 2: I Was Cautious When the Young Lieutenant Was Waiting to Assassinate Me
In Part 2 of the 1801 conversation with Samuel Adams, you’ll hear what happened when Sam was given a slave woman. He’ll also talk about his connections with the Sons of Liberty and how close he was to being assassinated. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Google, Apple, or your favorite provider. ----- Tom Niewulis’ deep understanding of the American Founding Fathers and his passion for the principles of liberty shine brightly in his portrayal of Samuel Adams. With over 30 years i...
Jan 08, 2025•54 min•Ep. 124
Samuel Adams Part 1: Sometimes We Must Shed Blood so that Liberty can Prevail.
In 1801, Samuel Adams was contemplating the fate of the country with Thomas Jefferson at the helm, when he received a call from the future … In this episode, Sam will talk about what a terrible businessperson he was, how his beliefs of liberty developed, and why he thinks Jefferson will be a better president than his cousin was. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- Tom Niewulis’ deep understanding of the American Founding Fathers and his passion for the principles of liberty shi...
Jan 01, 2025•58 min•Ep. 123
Eleanor Roosevelt Part 2: You Have to Do What You Think You Can Not Do.
In Part 2 of the 1961 conversation with Eleanor Roosevelt, she explains why the United Nations gave her a standing ovation, how she transformed herself from having racist thoughts to dedicating her lives to those who she once may have judged, and she will talk quite a bit about lesbians in the Democratic party. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- Ruth Pangrace’s inspiring portrayal of Eleanor Roosevelt is a powerful reminder that a person’s value is judged by their contribution. Few ...
Dec 11, 2024•53 min•Ep. 122
Eleanor Roosevelt Part 1: Father Took Us to the Slums after Dinner.
In 1961, Eleanor Roosevelt had just finished a call with recently elected John F. Kennedy, when she received a call from the future… In this episode, she'll explain why J Edgar Hoover started a file on her suggesting that she was a pervert. She'll also talk about the time she spent in the slums that caused her to pursue a life of service, and she'll discuss the ultimate betrayal of her husband, four term president, franklin D Roosevelt. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or...
Dec 04, 2024•52 min•Ep. 121
Thomas Gage Part 2: The American’s Rebel Under the Veneer of Liberty.
In Part 2 of the 1775 conversation with Thomas Gage, he will explain why Washington and Hancock’s ambitious intentions are more aligned with greed than liberty. He’ll also explain how the Americans were clueless about the bubble of protection the English provided them. And last, he’ll share the details of his final battle that ended his career. ----- Paul O’Shaughnessy has been a re-enactor with the British 10th Regiment of Foot since 1972, portraying British soldiers and officers of the Boston ...
Nov 27, 2024•51 min•Ep. 120
Thomas Gage Part 1: The Colonist See the Law Very Selectively.
In 1775, Thomas Gage had recently returned to his home in England when he received a call from the future… In this episode, you are going to hear a perspective of the American Revolution from the losing side. It’s persuasive. The British fought and died to create safety and civility in parts of the world and then the American’s gave them a waive and a nod and said, “Thanks for teeing this up, we’ll take it from here.” It is fascinating to see how the American Revolution is seen as a fight for li...
Nov 20, 2024•51 min•Ep. 119
Walt Disney Part 2: Did Mickey Mouse Throw Minnie out of a Plane?
In Part 2 of the 1939 conversation with Walt Disney, he’ll tell us why Donald Duck was meaner than Mickey, his plans to revolutionize the Movie industry again, and why he had to fire his wife for being a terrible Disney employee. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- It would take a very talented person to capture the creative, visionary essence of Walt Disney, but in this episode, James Froemel does exactly that. James is an actor, storyteller, narrator and is the 4X winner of the “Bi...
Nov 13, 2024•51 min•Ep. 118
Walt Disney Part 1: I Don’t Care About Making Money
On February 24, 1939, Walt Disney was relaxing after his recent Oscar win for Snow White when he received a call from the future … In this episode, Walt will tell the story of how he lost the rights to one of his first successes, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, a character that looked a lot like Mickey Mouse. He’ll also explain how he recovered from Bankruptcy, and he’ll talk about the enormous task of drawing 250,000 pictures to create Snow White. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- ...
Nov 06, 2024•45 min•Ep. 117
A message from Tony Dean - Next episode November 6, 2024
Next episode November 6, 2024
Sep 25, 2024•1 min•Ep. 116
Abraham Lincoln Part 2: Without Total Devastation, the South Will Not Give up.
In Part 2 of the 1865 conversation with Abraham Lincoln, he explains why total devastation of the South was the only way to win the war. He also shares several of his plans to free the slaves including moving them to … Liberia? And he’ll explain why breaking American laws was necessary during war. ----- John King's episode on the Calling History Podcast was nothing short of captivating. With 25 years of experience portraying Abraham Lincoln, John seamlessly brought the 16th President to life, of...
Sep 18, 2024•51 min•Ep. 115
Abraham Lincoln Part 1: I Thought the South was Out-Praying Us
On April 13, 1865, Abraham Lincoln was waiting for his son Robert to return with a firsthand account of Robert E. Lee surrendering the south when he received a phone call from the future… In this episode, Lincoln shares the powerful lesson he learned while wrestling with his sister that caused him to forgive instead of punishing the South. He explains why he added ‘In God We Trust’ to our coins. And demonstrates his ingenuity by choosing to duel with swords rather than pistols. Start the episode...
Sep 11, 2024•56 min•Ep. 114
Alexander Hamilton Part 2: When a Person is Without Honor, there is no Limit to What They Might Find Reasonable.
In Part 2 of the 1804 conversation with Alexander Hamilton, he will persuade you as to why the Bill of Rights might be a bad thing. He’ll talk about how Jefferson was a coward that made a decent president. And he’ll clear up why not aiding the French made complete sense, even though they were there when we needed them the most. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- Hal Bidlack’s portrayal of Alexander Hamilton embodies the brilliance and complexities of this indispensable Founding Fath...
Sep 04, 2024•55 min•Ep. 113
Alexander Hamilton Part 1: I’m Not from a State, I’m an American.
On July 10th, 1804, Alexander Hamilton was preparing for his trip to Weehawken, New Jersey, when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Hamilton talks about his duel with Vice President Aaron Burr, scolds me for bringing up his affair with Mariah Reynolds, and explains his vision to unite the 13 states and create the most powerful nation the world has ever known. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- Hal Bidlack’s portrayal of Alexander Hamilton embodies the brillia...
Aug 28, 2024•55 min•Ep. 112
Thomas Paine Part 2: The World is my Country; all Mankind are My Brethren.
In Part 2 of the 1802 conversation with Thomas Paine, he’ll talk about his relationships with Napoleon, George Washington, and Benjamin Franklin. He’ll also share his controversial opinions on the bible and religion that nearly caused him to be erased from history. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- I’m so thankful to Steve Gulick for never letting us forget Thomas Paine’s role in American Independence. The countless hours you put into learning the history and replicating Thomas Pai...
Aug 21, 2024•46 min•Ep. 111
Thomas Paine Part 1: These are the Times That Try Men’s Souls
In 1802, Thomas Paine was in France making plans to return to America when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Paine talks about his wildly popular pamphlet Common Sense and how it united the Americans to fight for liberty. He talked about his history seizing enemy ships and their goods, and how that didn’t make him a pirate. And he’ll talk about his experience in France almost losing his head to the guillotine. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- I’m so thankf...
Aug 14, 2024•49 min•Ep. 110
Anne Frank Part 2: There is so Much that I Can’t Say Out Loud.
In Part 2 of the 1944 conversation with Anne Frank, she will talk about her dreams for the future, her thoughts about God, and how she feels about Hitler. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- Sheryl Faye’s reenactment of Anne Frank is extraordinarily moving. An award-winning actress with a BFA in Acting from Emerson College, Sheryl has over 20 years of experience performing across the world, and currently stars in eleven one-woman shows. Her portrayal of Anne Frank is deeply emotional...
Aug 07, 2024•34 min•Ep. 109
Anne Frank Part 1: When I Write My Courage is Reborn.
On August 3, 1944, Anne Frank was hiding in the secret annex when she received a call from the future… In this episode, Anne is going to talk about what it's like hiding in the secret annex for almost two years. She's going to explain how they get food and how people risk their lives to protect them. She will also explain why she remains optimistic despite knowing that horrible atrocities are happening to her people. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- Sheryl Faye’s reenactment...
Jul 31, 2024•34 min•Ep. 108
Albert Einstein Part 2: My Theory Gave Birth to the Atomic Bomb.
In Part 2 of the 1955 conversation with Albert Einstein, he’ll explain why as a pacifist he supported men arming themselves to fight Hitler. He’ll talk about his regret after realizing his discoveries resulted in weapons that would kill thousands. And he’ll challenge your mind with explanations of stretching space and time. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- A professional actor could spend a lifetime trying to master the art of Albert Einstein's voice, his mannerisms, and at the sa...
Jul 24, 2024•57 min•Ep. 107
Albert Einstein Part 1: Why Can I Not Be a Citizen of the World?
On March 14, 1955, Albert Einstein was contemplating unified field theory when he received a call from the future… In this episode, he’ll tell the story of the gift his father gave him as a child that initiated his never-ending curiosity. He’ll also explain the great lengths he took to avoid conscription into the German army. And he’ll solve the mystery of why his hair always looks like he just woke up. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- A professional actor could spend a life...
Jul 17, 2024•59 min•Ep. 106
PT Barnum Part 2: Money is an Excellent servant, but a Terrible Master
In Part 2 of the 1891 conversation with PT Barnum, he will explain the difference between fraud and humbug. He’ll explain where he drew the strength to recover when his life’s work was burned to the ground twice, and he’ll give us all some tips on the Art of Getting Money. Start episode 2 to join the conversation. ----- Adam Gertsacov is one of the most educated clowns in the world (barring certain elected officials.) He wears many hats, including those of a professional clown, an author, an inf...
Jul 10, 2024•45 min•Ep. 105
PT Barnum Part 1: Without Promotion, Something Terrible Happens, Nothing.
On April 1, 1891, PT Barnum was contemplating a life of showmanship when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Barnum will discuss his relationship with the 161-year-old nurse of George Washington. He’ll talk about the time he bet his entire fortune on a singer he had never heard. And he’ll share his greatest regret. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- Adam Gertsacov is one of the most educated clowns in the world (barring certain elected officials.) He wears man...
Jul 03, 2024•52 min•Ep. 104
A Message From Tony Dean - Next Podcast July 3, 2024
A Message From Tony Dean - Next Podcast July 3, 2024. We are just getting started.
Jun 06, 2024•1 min•Ep. 103
James Bowie Part 2: I am Not in the Habit of Backing Down
In Part 2 of the 1836 conversation with James Bowie, He will talk about the nearly unbelievable smuggling scheme he concocted with the Pirate Jean Lafitte. He’ll also explain how he sold pieces of the Louisiana purchase, even though it was not his land to sell. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Google, Apple, or your favorite provider. ----- Jack Edmondson’s interpretation of James Bowie is exceptional. His deep knowledge and engaging storytelling bring this complex character to ...
May 29, 2024•43 min•Ep. 102
James Bowie Part 1: We are Doomed Sir. We Have No Chance.
On March 5, 1836, James Bowie was sick and lying on a cot in the Alamo when he received a call from the future… In this episode, Bowie will go in detail about the Sandbar Duel that cemented his legacy in the history books. He’ll dispel some of the myths of his life including the fact that he is not a knife fighter. And he’ll tell the story of his search for a lost silver mine that probably never existed. Listen to the Calling History Podcast on Spotify, Google, Apple, or your favorite provider. ...
May 22, 2024•45 min•Ep. 101
Ruby Waller Part 2: That Was My Introduction into The World of Whoredom
In Part 2 of the 1870 conversation with Ruby Waller, she will talk in detail about the extraordinary place called Urania cottage giving fallen women a safe plan to start again by creating a new life in Australia. She'll also explain what a badger game is. And she'll talk about her meetings later in life with Charles Dickens when he was an old man. Start the episode now to join the conversation. ----- From Connecticut to Maine, from Baltimore to London, Jennifer Emerson has honed her craft as a l...
May 15, 2024•55 min•Ep. 100