History Told Forward: The Stories That Shape Who We Are

About History Told Forward: The Stories That Shape Who We Are

History Told Forward is a storytelling podcast that looks at the past with an eye toward the present. Through narrative-driven episodes, the show explores historical events, figures, and moments that continue to shape how we live, lead, and make decisions today. Rather than focusing on timelines or trivia, each episode examines the context, consequences, and human choices behind history — revealing patterns, lessons, and perspectives that still matter. History Told Forward is for listeners who want more than facts, and who believe understanding the past is essential to understanding the world we live in now.

Publisher

Donald Dunn

Category

history · society & culture · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Jan 2026

Latest episode

4 Mar 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   4 Mar 2026

   The Real Problem in American Politics Isn’t Left vs Right — It’s Civic Confusion

   Why do so many Americans struggle to understand how their government actually works? In this episode of History Told Forward, host Donald Dunn sits down with Marine Corps veteran and civic educator Carl Abel, founder of Crayon Box Politics, to discuss the real issue behind America’s political divide: civic confusion. After two decades in the United States Marine Corps, Carl Abel began questioning why even highly trained professionals—including military members—often lack a clear understanding of government systems and civic responsibility. That realization led him to create Crayon Box Politics and develop The Archivist, a platform designed to make government data easier for everyday Americans to access and understand. In this conversation, Dunn and Abel explore leadership failures in both politics and the military, why Americans have slowly given away their political power, and how technology—including AI—may help rebuild civic awareness. They also discuss the dangers of partisan extremes, the importance of informed voters, and why the future of democracy depends on education, transparency, and civic engagement. If you’ve ever wondered why politics feels broken—or what ordinary citizens can do to fix it—this episode dives deep into the structural and cultural challenges facing American democracy today https://www.crayonboxpolitics.com/ (https://www.crayonboxpolitics.com/)

2. 

   18 Feb 2026

   John Kiriakou: Whistleblower Inside the CIA’s Torture Program

   What really happens when a government insider decides to speak out? In this episode of History Told Forward, former CIA officer John Kiriakou shares the story that reshaped his life and ignited a global debate. After spending 15 years inside the Central Intelligence Agency as a Middle East analyst and counterterrorism operative, Kiriakou became the first U.S. official to publicly confirm the CIA’s use of waterboarding and other “enhanced interrogation techniques.” The consequences were severe. Kiriakou discusses the post-9/11 transformation of the CIA, the realities of intelligence work, the ethics and legality of torture, and the personal cost of becoming a whistleblower. From counterterrorism operations in Pakistan to a federal prison sentence under the Espionage Act, this conversation explores the collision between national security, law, and conscience. This episode examines: • The CIA’s role after 9/11 • The origins of the torture program • Why torture produces unreliable intelligence • The hidden risks faced by whistleblowers • Life inside federal prison • Government accountability and power Whether you’re interested in intelligence agencies, modern American history, ethics in warfare, or the human impact of state secrets, this is a rare firsthand account from the center of one of the most controversial chapters of the War on Terror.

3. 

   10 Feb 2026

   What do New Yorkers really think about Andrew Cuomo, and New York Politics.

   What do New Yorkers really think about Andrew Cuomo, politics, and the culture surrounding power and accountability? In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker Sara Alessandrini, creator of the documentary miniseries This Is What New Yorkers Say, to unpack the real conversations happening on the streets of New York. Filmed over five years, her project captures unfiltered public opinion during and after the controversial tenure of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Rather than pushing a political agenda, Alessandrini’s work explores the human side of modern politics—examining women’s empowerment, cancel culture, due process, and how public perception collides with media narratives. Through candid interviews with everyday New Yorkers, the series exposes the complexity, contradictions, and emotional weight behind political opinion in one of the most influential cities in the world. This conversation dives into the challenges of political filmmaking, the responsibility of storytelling, and why listening—rather than labeling—matters more than ever in today’s polarized climate. Takeaways: Filmmaker Sara Alessandrini explores the intricate intersection of New York politics and personal narratives in her documentary. The documentary investigates how the resignation of Andrew Cuomo impacted everyday New Yorkers and their perspectives on governance. Through Candid Conversations, the series delves into critical issues such as women's empowerment and the implications of cancel culture. The project emphasizes the necessity of nuanced dialogue, allowing marginalized voices to be heard beyond mainstream narratives. Sara's work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths regarding societal norms and the application of due process. The documentary serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding the complexities of modern political landscapes and social justice movements. Links referenced in this episode: thisiswhatnew Yorkerssay.com (https://thisiswhatnew Yorkerssay.com) apple tv on demand (https://apple tv on demand) youtube (https://youtube) zoomo (https://zoomo) Companies mentioned in this episode: Candid Conversations Fox CNN Mentioned in this episode: Build your website today and start reaching Customers Contact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning Lets build a show that will inspire generations! Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

4. 

   3 Feb 2026

   Lost & Found: Tracy Smith's Journey to Rediscovering Identity - Authors After Action: Real Life Stories Behind the Books

   Tracy Smith takes us on an adventurous journey of self-discovery in this episode, highlighting how she found her identity by getting lost—literally and metaphorically. At 49, she booked a one-way ticket to Iceland, realizing that the life she had built no longer resonated with her. This leap of faith sparked her memoir, *The Purpose of Getting Lost*, which emphasizes that you don’t truly find yourself by staying put; you find yourself by embracing the unknown. Tracy's travels across various countries became acts of courage, helping her to break free from people-pleasing patterns and understand that belonging is something we create for ourselves. Join us as we explore the humor, heart, and humanity of her journey, reminding us all that it's never too late to choose yourself and embrace your story. Takeaways: It's never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue your passions, as Tracy did at 49. Getting lost intentionally can lead to self-discovery and help you find your identity. The writing process often involves reliving past experiences, which can be therapeutic yet challenging. Understanding your target audience is crucial for effective writing and connecting with readers. Don't be afraid to trust your voice and writing style, even if it feels unconventional. It's important to recognize that learning lessons can be a lifelong process, and it's okay to revisit them. Links referenced in this episode: tracysmithauthor.com (https://tracysmithauthor.com) tracytravelseverywhere.com (https://tracytravelseverywhere.com) substack.com/tracysmithphd (https://substack.com/tracysmithphd) amazon.com/thepurposeofgettinglost (https://amazon.com/thepurposeofgettinglost)

5. 

   3 Feb 2026

   Understanding Socialism: A Comprehensive Analysis of Its Failures

   The discourse presented in this podcast meticulously examines the myriad complexities surrounding socialism, with a particular focus on its inherent failures. I engage in a profound dialogue with our esteemed guest, Doug Cardell, an expert in economic policy, who elucidates the fundamental reasons socialism often falters in practice, despite its theoretical allure. Drawing upon extensive research and historical case studies, we explore the critical role of human behavior, incentives, and the price system—elements frequently overlooked in contemporary economic discussions. Cardell’s insights challenge the popular misconceptions surrounding socialism, advocating for a clear understanding of its implications and consequences in both historical and modern contexts. This episode serves as a clarion call for informed discourse on economic systems, urging listeners to comprehend the intricacies of socialism and its practical ramifications. The discourse surrounding socialism has gained renewed vigor in contemporary society, penetrating the fabric of political dialogue and public consciousness. Our esteemed guest, Doug Cardell, an economic policy expert, delves into this multifaceted subject with a clarity that transcends the often convoluted rhetoric that surrounds it. Through his extensive research and experience, Cardell presents a compelling argument for why socialism, despite its theoretical allure, has consistently faltered in practice. He emphasizes the significance of incentives, human behavior, and the dynamics of price systems—elements that are frequently overlooked in modern economic discussions. Cardell's treatise, encapsulated in his book 'Why Socialism Struggles,' serves as a clarion call for a more nuanced understanding of economic systems and their implications for society. Throughout the episode, Cardell articulates the historical failures of socialist systems, drawing parallels with contemporary political figures who misinterpret or misrepresent socialism's foundational principles. He posits that the casual invocation of terms like socialism and capitalism often stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of their definitions and implications. The conversation navigates through the historical trajectories of socialism, examining case studies that reveal the inherent economic unsoundness of the system. Cardell's insights prompt a reevaluation of the prevailing narratives surrounding socialism, urging listeners to consider the practical realities versus the ideological fantasies that often characterize such discussions. As the dialogue unfolds, Cardell challenges the notion of equality as a foundational principle of socialism, positing that a better society is predicated not on enforced uniformity but on the recognition of individual differences and contributions. He advocates for a model where personal choices and incentives drive economic success, contrasting sharply with the limitations imposed by socialist frameworks. The episode culminates in a call to action for listeners to engage critically with the economic ideologies that shape their world, advocating for a return to principles that foster individual initiative and systemic growth. Takeaways: The discussion highlights that socialism often fails in practice, despite its theoretical appeal, due to its inherent economic flaws. Doug Cardell emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior and incentives when evaluating economic systems like socialism. Historical examples, such as Venezuela's transition to socialism, illustrate the detrimental effects of government control over economic resources. The podcast argues that true democracy cannot coexist with socialism, as economic choices must remain free to uphold democratic principles. A key takeaway is that while socialism seeks equality, it undermines individual incentives, ultimately leading to economic inefficiency. The conversation stresses the necessity of creating value for society, which capitalism facilitates better than socialism. Links referenced in this episode: dougcardell.com (https://dougcardell.com) amazon.com (https://amazon.com) barnesandnoble.com (https://barnesandnoble.com) target.com (https://target.com) Companies mentioned in this episode: Amazon Barnes and Noble Target IKEA North Korea Cuba Venezuela Elon Musk Jeff Bezos Bill Gates Mentioned in this episode: Build your website today and start reaching Customers Contact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning Lets build a show that will inspire generations! Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

6. 

   29 Jan 2026

   Walking Away From “Success” to Write What Matters — The Inner Shift Behind Every Real Book with Nina Amir - Authors After Action: Real Life Stories Behind the Books

   What if the thing blocking your book isn’t craft, time, or talent—but identity? In this episode of Authors After Action, bestselling author and transformational coach Nina Amir reveals why most writers fail long before page one—and how inner alignment is the real publishing advantage. Nina shares her journey from childhood horse stories to magazine journalism, book editing, and ultimately walking away from industry-defined success to reclaim purpose. She explains why publishing is a business, how authors sabotage themselves by skipping platform and planning, and why personal growth is the hidden engine behind every meaningful book. This conversation bridges the practical and the personal—covering self-publishing vs. traditional deals, the dangers of vanity presses, how to think like a publisher, and what actually happens when writers face rejection. Nina reframes “no” as data, not destiny, and shows how authors can step into the identity required to do the work. If you’ve ever said “someday I’ll write my book,” this episode shows you why someday is the enemy—and what it really takes to become the author you say you want to be. Takeaways Publishing is a business—whether you self-publish or sign a traditional deal, you must think like an entrepreneur. The biggest mistake new authors make is skipping audience-building and platform work. Self-publishing means owning all the risk: editing, design, marketing, and distribution. Rejection isn’t personal; it’s feedback about product-market fit. You can learn every step of publishing—but you must be willing to grow. You don’t become an author after you publish—you publish after you become an author. Links Nina Amir (Main Site): https://ninaamir.com (https://ninaamir.com) Write Nonfiction Now: https://writenonfictionnow.com (https://writenonfictionnow.com) Books by Nina Amir: https://booksbyninaamir.com (https://booksbyninaamir.com) Change the World One Book at a Time (New Book): Available at all major booksellers Nonfiction Writers University – via https://ninaamir.com (https://ninaamir.com) Inspired Creator Community – via https://ninaamir.com (https://ninaamir.com) Free 15-Minute Session with Nina – available on her website Companies & Platforms Mentioned Amazon Barnes & Noble IngramSpark Draft2Digital Smashwords Syracuse University Self Magazine Chapters 00:00:02 – Welcome to Authors After Action & Meet Nina Amir 00:00:58 – Childhood Stories and the First Call to Write 00:02:24 – From Journalism School to Publishing 00:05:23 – Psychology, Coaching, and the Inner Path 00:06:41 – The Most Common Author Mistake 00:07:22 – Why Publishing Is a Business 00:08:10 – Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Deals 00:16:38 – IngramSpark, Draft2Digital, and Distribution Reality 00:18:16 – Vanity Presses & Costly Traps 00:23:39 – What Writers Do Next With Nina 00:27:52 – Handling Rejection Without Quitting 00:32:07 – Why “Fit” Matters in Publishing 00:35:12 – Where to Find & Work With Nina Amir Authors After Action reveals the human journeys behind the books—and this episode proves that every real story begins with an inner decision.

7. 

   27 Jan 2026

   Unveiling Colorado's Hidden Narratives: The Legacy of Eric Douglas

   This podcast episode delves into the profound narrative captured within Jack Maher bestselling novel, "Poppy," which illuminates a neglected facet of Colorado's history, specifically focusing on Native American art. The narrative revolves around Jack’s grandfather, Eric Douglas, a pivotal figure who championed Native American artists and their creations, undertaking extensive journeys across the Southwest to advocate for their recognition and preservation. Through the lens of Eric's life, the discussion traverses his notable contributions during World War II, where he commanded a unit of nurses and innovated therapeutic practices by incorporating music as a means of healing for soldiers suffering from psychological trauma. This episode not only encapsulates the rich historical legacy of Eric Douglas but also underscores the ongoing importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of adversity. Jack's reflections on his grandfather's life serve as an evocative reminder of the intricate connections between personal history and broader cultural narratives. The exploration of Colorado's rich historical tapestry is vividly brought to life through the illuminating narratives of Jack Maher, a distinguished historical novelist and Emmy-winning journalist. In our engaging discussion, we delve into the life and legacy of Eric Douglas, Jack's grandfather, who emerged as a pivotal figure in championing Native American art during a time when such artistic expressions were often marginalized. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, Jack recounts how Eric's adventurous spirit led him to traverse the Southwestern landscape, forging meaningful relationships with Native artists and advocating for their work at the Denver Art Museum. His efforts not only preserved cultural heritage but also elevated the perception of Native art, likening its sophistication to that of classical European works. This episode encapsulates the profound impact of one man's commitment to cultural advocacy and the enduring significance of Native American artistry in Colorado's history. Takeaways: In this episode, we explored the profound impact of Eric Douglass on Native American art, which he championed during a time of great misunderstanding and prejudice. Jack Maher shares his personal journey of discovering his grandfather's legacy through storytelling and the challenges he faced while writing his book, Poppy. The conversation highlights how journalism shaped Jack Maher's narrative style, allowing him to convey his grandfather's life story in a compelling manner. We discussed the innovative museum practices introduced by Eric Douglass that transformed the presentation of Native American art and culture for future generations. The episode delves into the healing power of music, as exemplified by Eric Douglass's efforts to aid war veterans suffering from PTSD during World War II. Jack's reflections on his grandfather's life reveal the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the ongoing relevance of art in society today. Learn More: https://www.sandgoatmanorpublishing.com/ (https://www.sandgoatmanorpublishing.com/) Mentioned in this episode: Lets build a show that will inspire generations! Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning Build your website today and start reaching Customers Contact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

8. 

   22 Jan 2026

   Growing Up in Turbulence: How the Nineteen Seventies Shaped a Generation with Laura Van Wormer

   In this episode of History Told Forward, we deliver a powerful storytelling podcast experience rooted in real life stories, deep conversations, and the living memory of the human experience. We sit down with author and podcast creator Laura Van Wormer to explore what it was truly like to grow up in America during the early nineteen seventies—a time before cell phones, before seatbelts, before the internet, when kids roamed free and a nation wrestled with war, scandal, and cultural change. Laura is the creator of The Class of ’74, a serialized audio drama set in a Connecticut suburb between nineteen seventy-one and nineteen seventy-four. Drawing from her own lived experience, decades as a bestselling novelist, and her career as a former Doubleday editor, she recreates an era when music, protest, war, and coming of age collided. Through deep conversations, we explore how post–World War Two America created the suburbs, why nearly every father wore the same “uniform” to work, and how the shadow of Vietnam shaped an entire generation. We talk about how music, movies, and teenage rebellion formed identity—and why young listeners today are discovering this era to better understand their parents. These resilience stories reveal that history is not abstract. It is lived in kitchens, classrooms, and quiet fears carried home from the evening news. This episode offers meaningful life lessons about memory, identity, and the power of storytelling to preserve what time would otherwise erase. This is more than nostalgia. It’s a living time capsule—and a reminder that history survives because people remember. Links Mentioned: The Class of ’74 Podcast (available on all platforms) Search “The Class of ’74” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, and Podbean. Companies & Organizations Mentioned: Doubleday IBM Apple Podcasts Spotify Pandora YouTube Veteran Voice Radio Semper Fi Country Ranger Rockwave Planned Parenthood The Veterans Administration (VA) Mentioned in this episode: Lets build a show that will inspire generations! Lets build a show that will inspire generations, it starts by scheduling your free consultation call. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning Build your website today and start reaching Customers Contact Barracks Media Today and Schedule your free consultation. https://calendly.com/donalddunn/project-planning

9. 

   22 Jan 2026

   Wired for More: How DNA, AI, and Neurodivergence Unlock Human Potential with Len May - The Healing Side: Real Stories of Growth, Recovery, and Resilience

   In this episode of The Healing Side, we deliver a powerful storytelling podcast experience rooted in real life stories, deep conversations, and the evolving human experience of growth and healing. We sit down with Len May—genetics pioneer, CEO of EndoDNA, and human optimization advocate—whose personal journey began with an ADHD diagnosis and evolved into redefining what potential truly means. Len shares how understanding his own neurodivergence became a catalyst rather than a limitation. Through deep conversations, we explore how DNA, artificial intelligence, and cannabis science are converging to create personalized health protocols—tools that honor individual biology instead of forcing people into one-size-fits-all solutions. This episode dives into overcoming adversity at the biological and emotional level. Len explains how genetic markers influence stress response, trauma, and conditions like PTSD, and how this knowledge can reshape mental health care—especially for those in high-stress environments such as the military. These resilience stories reveal that awareness is power: when people understand how they are wired, they can heal smarter, perform better, and live more fully. We also examine the role of AI in healthcare—not as a replacement for human care, but as an amplifier of insight and compassion. The result is a vision of medicine that is informed, precise, and deeply human. This conversation offers meaningful life lessons about identity, difference, and the courage to reimagine health. If you’re drawn to stories about growth, self-discovery, and the future of healing, this episode reveals how embracing who you are—down to your DNA—can change everything. Takeaways: Neurodivergence can be a source of strength and clarity. Genetic insight leads to more effective, personalized healing. AI can enhance—not replace—the human side of healthcare. PTSD and stress response are influenced by biological markers. Understanding how you’re wired empowers growth and resilience. Healing works best when it honors individual biology. Links Referenced in This Episode: endodna.com lenmay.com spiritsandstories.com everythingispersonal.com Companies Mentioned in This Episode: EndoDNA

10. 

    4 Jan 2026

    Trailer: History Told Forward

    History Told Forward is a conversational podcast that explores history through storytelling and reflection. Each episode features authors, historians, educators, and storytellers discussing moments from the past and why they continue to matter today. Rather than focusing on dates and memorization, the show centers on people, decisions, and the lasting impact of historical events. Episodes are audio-only and run approximately thirty to forty-five minutes, designed for listeners who enjoy thoughtful conversation and meaningful historical context without academic jargon. History Told Forward is part of the Barracks Media Network, offering engaging conversations for those who believe history is best understood when it’s told with perspective and purpose.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.