
the memory palace
the memory palace
Latest episodes

May 15, 2025 • 23min
Episode 232: Oh, Herbert Morrison
Order The Memory Palace book now, dear listener. On Bookshop.org, on Amazon.com, on Barnes & Noble, or directly from Random House. Or order the audiobook at places like Libro.fm.On June 13th, 2025, I'll do a special, one-night-only live show at the Tribeca Audio Festival in New York City, joined by two of the audiobook's readers: Carrie Coon and Lili Taylor! www.thememorypalace.us/events.The Memory Palace is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX. Radiotopia is a collective of independently owned and operated podcasts that’s a part of PRX, a not-for-profit public media company. If you’d like to directly support this show, you can make a donation at Radiotopia.fm/donate. I have recently launched a newsletter. You can subscribe to it at thememorypalacepodcast.substack.com. Music
Pale by Akira Koresuma
The Things Left Unsaid by Caleb Burhans
VIII. Juliet by Matthew Bourne
Dream House III: After Dust from Mary Ellen Child's beautiful album, Ethel.
Here I Am, Two Warships, by Spirituals
Notes
You can listen to the whole, original recording here, and an enhanced, speed corrected version, here.
One of the best places to learn about Herb's life is this documentary.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

11 snips
May 1, 2025 • 18min
Episode 231: On Dexter Avenue
Explore the multifaceted legacy of Sophie Bibb and her role in commemorating Confederate soldiers. Dive into the complex narratives surrounding race and civil rights in Montgomery, Alabama, uncovering the impact of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Walk through the historic Dexter Avenue, where the struggles of the civil rights movement unfolded, illustrated by personal reflections on iconic marches. Plus, get updates on exciting new shows and recommendations for thoughtful gifts!

7 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 16min
Episode 230: Helen Hulick Takes the Stand
Dive into the inspiring story of Helen Hulick, whose journey from personal challenges to becoming a pioneer in education for deaf children reshaped lives. Discover a courtroom clash ignited by a young teacher's pants, sparking a vital discussion about women's rights and fashion norms. The narrative emphasizes the power of everyday courage, urging listeners to take bold actions for change. With personal anecdotes and reflections on civic responsibility, this insightful exploration will leave you inspired.

12 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 16min
Episode 229: Teammates
Explore the inspiring story of the Black Barons of Birmingham in the 1940s. Delve into the brotherhood among players like Willie Mays as they navigate the harsh realities of segregation. Experience the camaraderie and struggles that shaped their journey into professional baseball. It’s a gripping look at resilience amidst societal challenges, celebrating both their triumphs and struggles.

5 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 12min
Episode 228: Free Time
Reflecting on carefree college days, the conversation dives into unhealthy eating habits and the quest for better options like Magic Spoon's cereal. An inspiring tale follows, spotlighting a woman's journey from frustrated housewife to pioneering dishwasher inventor, highlighting her resilience in a male-dominated industry. The discussion continues with her lasting impact on kitchen technology and the challenges she faced in securing funding. Exciting new shows and upcoming events are also teased, adding to the vibrant tapestry of innovation.

Mar 11, 2025 • 13min
Episode 227: A Brief Note Written After Learning the National Parks Service Removed the word Transgender from Stonewall'
Order The Memory Palace book now, dear listener. On Bookshop.org, on Amazon.com, on Barnes & Noble, or directly from Random House. Or order the audiobook at places like Libro.fm.The Memory Palace is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX. Radiotopia is a collective of independently owned and operated podcasts that’s a part of PRX, a not-for-profit public media company. If you’d like to directly support this show, you can make a donation at Radiotopia.fm/donate. I have recently launched a newsletter. You can subscribe to it at thememorypalacepodcast.substack.com. Music
Pockets of Light by Ludomyr Melnyk
All in Circles and Janvie by Shida Shahabi
Between Trees by Akria Kosemura
NotesThere are a million things to read about Stonewall, but the thing that I feel like deepened my understanding enough was The New York Public Library's The Stonewall Reader. Particularly the audiobook. Couldn't recommend it enough.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

6 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 22min
Episode 176: The Air and the Sea and the Land
Explore the vibrant ecosystems of the Paleozoic era, marking the shift from aquatic life to land-dwelling organisms. Dive into the evolutionary journey of ancient nautiloids while learning about Lewis Purnell, an African American veteran who overcame systemic challenges. Discover the inspiring story of a WWII combat pilot who broke racial barriers to succeed in aviation. Uncover the efforts to accurately represent marginalized voices in aviation history, highlighting the importance of diversity in storytelling.

Feb 7, 2025 • 12min
Episode 226: A Wild One
Order The Memory Palace book now, dear listener. On Bookshop.org, on Amazon.com, on Barnes & Noble, or directly from Random House. Or order the audiobook at places like Libro.fm.The Memory Palace is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX. Radiotopia is a collective of independently owned and operated podcasts that’s a part of PRX, a not-for-profit public media company. If you’d like to directly support this show, you can make a donation at Radiotopia.fm/donate. I have recently launched a newsletter. You can subscribe to it at thememorypalacepodcast.substack.com. Order Eliza McGraw's wonderful new book, Astride: Women, Horses and a Partnership that Changed America. MusicHallogallo from Neu!, basically one of the best songs there is. NotesThere is a lot written about Bessie, including some wonderful children's books. The best thing I read about her was in Ann Farrar (a journalist and biker herself)'s book Hear Me Roar: Women, Motorcycles, and the Rapture of the Road.
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

6 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 24min
Episode 225: Emma and the Trail
Discover the inspiring tale of Emma Gatewood, who escaped an abusive marriage to conquer the Appalachian Trail at 63. Her journey is a powerful symbol of resilience and women's empowerment in outdoor adventures. Reflect on the impact of community bonds amid recent wildfires in Los Angeles, highlighting unity in times of crisis. The podcast also touches on nostalgia in small-town life, illustrating Emma's journey of love and connection against societal expectations. It's a blend of personal struggle and courageous triumph.

Jan 2, 2025 • 24min
Stories About The Memory Palace Audiobook
Discover the heartfelt challenges of keeping New Year's resolutions while seeking self-improvement. Enjoy a poignant story about celebrating a book deal in a historic cemetery, filled with emotion and reflection. Dive into the creative magic behind a captivating full cast audiobook, complete with amusing encounters and rich voices. Explore the transformative journey of a girl pursuing her passion for nature against societal expectations. Finally, delve into the intricate connections of ecology and memory, showcasing the lives of prairie chickens and the essence of independence.