This Day
Jody Avirgan & Radiotopia
“This Day” takes you beyond the head-spinning headlines of today and into the unexpected historical moments that have shaped American politics. Hosted by Jody Avirgan (538), and historians Nicole Hemmer (Vanderbilt), and Kellie Carter Jackson (Wellesley), each episode explores a moment from that day in U.S. political history to uncover its lasting impact. On Sunday episodes, Jody, Niki and Kellie react to current news with their usual mix of humor, analysis, and historical perspective.New episodes released Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Lots more on our Instagram page, YouTube, and newsletter. Find it all at thisdaypod.com.This Day is a proud member of the Radiotopia podcast network from PRX.
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 20min
The Anti-Pay-Toilet Fight (1973)
Discover the surprising grassroots movement in 1973 that led to Chicago's conversion of pay toilets to free ones. The discussion dives into the historical struggles over public restroom accessibility, revealing deep societal divisions and ongoing political debates. Explore how public restrooms symbolize broader issues of dignity, particularly for vulnerable populations. The conversation ties in contemporary activism surrounding restroom rights, linking past efforts to current challenges faced in public restrooms.
Feb 25, 2025 • 21min
The Truth Inside Indian Boarding Schools (1928/2025) w/ Dana Hedgpeth
Dana Hedgpeth, a reporter for The Washington Post and an enrolled member of the Hollowa Saponi tribe, discusses her groundbreaking investigation into Indian boarding schools. She reveals the horrifying legacy of these institutions designed to 'Americanize' Native American children, where nearly 3,000 deaths occurred. The conversation delves into the traumatic experiences of survivors, the systemic erasure of cultural identities, and the essential role of storytelling in reclaiming these narratives and confronting a dark history.
Feb 23, 2025 • 19min
A Very Strange Black History Month (Some Sunday Context)
Discover the origins of Black History Month, tracing back to Carter G. Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week in 1924. The discussion dives into the evolution of educational narratives and the importance of recognizing Black contributions throughout American history. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of past events with current racial violence, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of diverse histories. The speakers also explore the shift in terminology from Negro History Week to Black History Month and advocate for continuous dialogue about Black history.
Feb 20, 2025 • 26min
Why They Banned Dunking (1968) w/ Mike Sielski
Dive into the fascinating world of basketball and the surprising 1967 ban on dunking, largely influenced by racial dynamics. Explore how this decision reflected broader societal tensions, especially with the emergence of dominant Black players like Lew Alcindor. Uncover the history and folklore behind dunking, its evolution through the decades, and its significant cultural implications. Guests share their insights on how this iconic move shaped the game and the ongoing legacy of athletic expression in basketball.
Feb 18, 2025 • 20min
The PTA Is Born (1897)
On February 18, 1897, a pivotal gathering marked the birth of the Parent Teachers Association. The discussion highlights its historical roots in advocating for children's rights and the progressive movements that shaped its evolution. Delving into the dynamics of gender and race, the hosts reflect on how parental involvement has transformed in education over time. Anecdotes from early PTA meetings reveal the blend of family life with social activism, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in today's educational landscape.
Feb 16, 2025 • 50min
The President vs. The Courts (Some Sunday Context)
The discussion dives into Trump and Musk's challenges to executive power and the courts. Historical comparisons are made to Andrew Jackson and Nixon, shedding light on past political conflicts. They explore the implications of aggressive legal strategies on governance and public accountability. The evolving landscape of political activism, including LGBTQ+ rights, is also highlighted. Tensions between executive authority and judicial checks reflect the complexities of modern governance and constitutional integrity.
Feb 13, 2025 • 22min
SNL Turns Fifty: Our Favorite Political Sketches (1975-2025)
The podcast celebrates the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live, diving into its pivotal role in shaping political satire. It discusses the evolution of humor around figures like Gerald Ford and the challenges comedians face in the absurdity of today's politics. The hosts explore the delicate balance between parody and reality, emphasizing the significance of empathy in satire. They also reflect on how SNL mirrors cultural sentiments and critique iconic sketches, highlighting the show's lasting impact on public perception and media consumption.
5 snips
Feb 11, 2025 • 17min
The Last Senator To Be Expelled (1862)
On February 11, 1862, Senator Jesse David Bright was expelled for his Confederate loyalties, igniting discussions about loyalty and political ambition in a divided nation. The hosts dissect the conflicting Northern sentiments about slavery and the complexities of border states during the Civil War. They touch on the political upheaval of the time and President Lincoln's strategies, while also humorously reflecting on the significance of hometown legacies and influential figures from Indiana.
Feb 9, 2025 • 19min
Immigration And MAGA (Some Sunday Context)
Immigration has become a pivotal issue for the GOP, shaped by figures like Pat Buchanan. His 1992 press conference at Smuggler's Gulch marked a notable turning point, highlighting tensions between diverse groups. The podcast explores the evolution of right-wing politics and how extremist ties influence public perception. It also delves into the relationship between political rhetoric and race, drawing parallels to modern figures like Trump. Furthermore, it examines the intersection of religion and immigration narratives in shaping American ideologies.
Feb 6, 2025 • 19min
The U.S.S. Pueblo Hostage Crisis (1968)
In 1968, the capture of the U.S.S. Pueblo by North Korea led to a significant hostage crisis amid rising Cold War tensions. The crew's desperate fight and the subsequent negotiations showcased U.S. vulnerabilities and complexities. The incident highlighted President Johnson's struggles during the Tet Offensive, casting a shadow on American confidence abroad. Surprisingly overlooked, this event is crucial in understanding public sentiment about the Vietnam War and reshaping narratives of that tumultuous year.
