As the founding director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Lonnie Bunch was responsible for creating a museum that started with no objects, no staff, no building – not even a location for the building. Since opening in September 2016, the museum has welcomed 6 million visitors. In this episode, he discusses how he created a space that tells stories of tragedy and triumph, hardship and resilience. We'll also discuss several timely issues related to race in America and his still acute imposter syndrome. 

GUEST Lonnie Bunch is the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, the first African American and first historian to serve in that role. Prior to becoming Secretary, Lonnie was the founding director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. 

Considered one of the most influential museum professionals of his time, Lonnie has also worked with the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, National Museum of American History, and the Chicago Historical Society. His latest book, A Fool’s Errand: Creating the National Museum of African American History and Culture in the Age of Bush, Obama, and Trump, chronicles the making of the museum.

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