Calling History: Listen In on Conversations with History’s Most Influential People.

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 liberty or theft, depending on which side of the ocean you are viewing it from. Start the episode now to join the conversation.   -----     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 Garrison, and most recently the much-maligned General Thomas Gage, Governor of the Massachusetts Province for the turbulent year prior to the outbreak of civil war in the Colonies.  He can be reached by email at frommage@comcast.net, or by phone at 617.620.8123.  He wishes all of His Majesty’s subjects the blessings of Peace and Loyalty to King and Country.

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 “Biggest Liar in West Virginia” tall-tale competition. Originally from New Jersey, he has called West Virginia home for nearly 20 years. James is a graduate of West Virginia University’s BFA Acting program and the Williamstown Theatre Festival Acting Apprentice program. As an actor, he has worked with The Footlight Players, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, The West Virginia Humanities Council, History Alive! program and West Virginia Public Theatre. He was invited to perform in 2024 as part of the National Storytelling Festival, Exchange Place series and is a professional audiobook narrator with titles now available on Audible. He can be reached through his webpage www.jamesfroemel.com .

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. -----   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 “Biggest Liar in West Virginia” tall-tale competition. Originally from New Jersey, he has called West Virginia home for nearly 20 years. James is a graduate of West Virginia University’s BFA Acting program and the Williamstown Theatre Festival Acting Apprentice program. As an actor, he has worked with The Footlight Players, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, The West Virginia Humanities Council, History Alive! program and West Virginia Public Theatre. He was invited to perform in 2024 as part of the National Storytelling Festival, Exchange Place series and is a professional audiobook narrator with titles now available on Audible. He can be reached through his webpage www.jamesfroemel.com .

Next episode November 6, 2024

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, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into Lincoln’s journey from a humble log cabin to the White House. As a retired teacher, his engaging storytelling style makes complex historical events easy to understand while also being entertaining. His depth of knowledge and dedication to portraying Lincoln using stories to change hearts and minds is masterful. He has brought Mr. Lincoln to life for school students, historical groups, civic groups, churches, clubs, a Law Day dinner, birthday parties, Civil War rededications, festivals, and parades.  You can reach John at jwking329@yahoo.com.

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 now to join the conversation. -----   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, offering listeners an authentic glimpse into Lincoln’s journey from a humble log cabin to the White House. As a retired teacher, his engaging storytelling style makes complex historical events easy to understand while also being entertaining. His depth of knowledge and dedication to portraying Lincoln using stories to change hearts and minds is masterful. He has brought Mr. Lincoln to life for school students, historical groups, civic groups, churches, clubs, a Law Day dinner, birthday parties, Civil War rededications, festivals, and parades.  You can reach John at jwking329@yahoo.com.

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 Father. As a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel with over 25 years of service, Hal’s distinguished military career included roles in national security, diplomacy, and education as a Political Science professor at the Air Force Academy. With a doctorate from the University of Michigan, he has also served in key environmental roles at the White House. He is now a full-time performer and writer, bringing Alexander Hamilton to life for anyone lucky enough to attend his live performance. You can learn more at hamiltonlives.com or reach him at booking@hamiltonlives.com

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 brilliance and complexities of this indispensable Founding Father. As a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel with over 25 years of service, Hal’s distinguished military career included roles in national security, diplomacy, and education as a Political Science professor at the Air Force Academy. With a doctorate from the University of Michigan, he has also served in key environmental roles at the White House. He is now a full-time performer and writer, bringing Alexander Hamilton to life for anyone lucky enough to attend his live performance. You can learn more at hamiltonlives.com or reach him at booking@hamiltonlives.com

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 Paine’s mannerisms and speech pattern creates an authenticity that makes this conversation unforgettable. Thank you for this amazing performance, Steve.

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 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 Paine’s mannerisms and speech pattern creates an authenticity that makes this conversation unforgettable. Thank you for this amazing performance, Steve.

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 and authentic, showcasing her remarkable talent. Known for her portrayals of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, Helen Keller, Queen Elizabeth, and many more, Sheryl’s expertise is on full display in these two episodes. Her performance immerses us into Anne Frank's world, honoring her legacy. You can find her at sherylfaye.com.

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 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 and authentic, showcasing her remarkable talent. Known for her portrayals of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, Helen Keller, Queen Elizabeth, and many more, Sheryl’s expertise is on full display in these two episodes. Her performance immerses us into Anne Frank's world, honoring her legacy. You can find her at sherylfaye.com.

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 same time being in total control of the history and brilliance of this once-in-a-generation genius. But that's exactly what George Capaccio has done. His work honors Einstein’s contribution to mankind. George’s performing career includes working as a professional storyteller for audiences of all ages. He has performed around the world, and in many of Boston’s theaters. George is also a writer and award-winning poet. His published works include both fiction and nonfiction titles for educational publishers. In recent years, George has been on tour performing his one-person show in which he performs as the celebrated physicist and humanitarian/social justice activist Albert Einstein. He and his wife Nancy live in Durham, NC with their 8-year-old Golden Retriever, Sasha. He can be reached at: georgecapaccio.com/einstein or capaccio.g@gmail.com or 339-368-0750.

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 lifetime trying to master the art of Albert Einstein's voice, his mannerisms, and at the same time being in total control of the history and brilliance of this once-in-a-generation genius. But that's exactly what George has done. His work honors Einstein’s contribution to mankind. George’s performing career includes working as a professional storyteller for audiences of all ages. He has performed around the world, and in many of Boston’s theaters. George is also a writer and award-winning poet. His published works include both fiction and nonfiction titles for educational publishers. In recent years, George has been on tour performing his one-person show in which he performs as the celebrated physicist and humanitarian/social justice activist Albert Einstein. He and his wife Nancy live in Durham, NC with their 8-year-old Golden Retriever, Sasha. He can be reached at: georgecapaccio.com/einstein or capaccio.g@gmail.com or 339-368-0750.

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 influencer, an entrepreneur, a comedy director, a P.T. Barnum impersonator, a flea circus impresario, and the esteemed hat of the Clown Laureate of Greenbelt, Maryland. His shows have been performed in over 37 states and 6 countries. His interpretation of PT Barnum is magnificent and will clear up once and for all whether Barnum was a scoundrel who cared only about money, or a savvy businessman who served and entertained the public for his entire life. Find out more about his work as PT Barnum at: meetptbarnum.com, his clown work at acmeclown.com, and his flea circus at trainedfleas.com.    -----     #reenactment   #livinghistory   #historybuff   #historylover   #historygeek   #ilovehistory    #historyiscool   #history   #bringinghistorytolife   #historicalinterpretation   #historynerd   #callinghistory   #ptbarnum   #thegreatestshowman

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 many hats, including those of a professional clown, an author, an influencer, an entrepreneur, a comedy director, a P.T. Barnum impersonator, a flea circus impresario, and the esteemed hat of the Clown Laureate of Greenbelt, Maryland. His shows have been performed in 37 states and 6 countries. His interpretation of PT Barnum is magnificent and will clear up once and for all whether Barnum was a scoundrel who cared only about money, or a savvy businessman who served and entertained the public for his entire life. Find out more about his work as PT Barnum at: meetptbarnum.com, his clown work at acmeclown.com, and his flea circus at trainedfleas.com.

A Message From Tony Dean - Next Podcast July 3, 2024. We are just getting started.

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 life. Somehow Jack highlights his bravery and historical significance without romanticizing too much where we’d forget that Bowie did some shady stuff. Thank you, Jack, for giving us this vivid glimpse into early American history. facebook.com/jack.edmondson.98

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.   -----     Jack Edmondson’s interpretation of James Bowie is exceptional. His deep knowledge and engaging storytelling bring this complex character to life. Somehow Jack highlights his bravery and historical significance without romanticizing too much where we’d forget that Bowie did some shady stuff. Thank you, Jack, for giving us this vivid glimpse into early American history. facebook.com/jack.edmondson.98

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 living history playwright, First-Person Interpreter, performer, and speaker over the past twenty-three years.  Her first novel, Dickens and the Whore, is a work of historical fiction concerning Dickens and his involvement in prostitution reform. Jennifer currently works as an actor with History Alive, Inc and on the staff of The House of the Seven Gables. Her Portrayal of Ruby Waller will leave you breathless and eager to see Jennifer at one of her live events.  You can find out more about Jennifer at: thepetticoatpages.com Instagram: ThePetticoatPages1693 Facebook: facebook.com/thepetticoatpages