This Day

How will this week be remembered in the history books? Will it be the week that Trump's tarrifs changed everything, or the week in which Democrats found some new energy? Jody shares his thoughts as part of our "Some Sunday Context" series -- and then we take a listen to our archive episode about Strom Thurmond's fillibuster. This was, of course, the week that New Jersey Senator Cory Booker broker Thurmond's record.Sign up for our newsletter! Find out more at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, want merch, or just want to say hello. Our website is thisdaypod.com Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Julie Shapiro and Yooree Losordo, Executive Producers at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In 2015, Starbucks launched a controversial initiative, aiming to initiate conversations about race through its #RaceTogether campaign. The idea? Baristas would write the hashtag on coffee cups. However, the campaign faced instant backlash, highlighting the challenges of tackling deep societal issues in a fast-paced environment. The discussion dives into the broader implications of corporate activism, questioning whether such efforts can create real change or merely serve as performative gestures. Tune in for an engaging analysis of this marketing misstep!

Celebrate April 1st with a whimsical retelling of Jimmy Carter's bizarre encounter with a rabbit on the White House lawn. Discover the world of political pranks that toe the line between humor and serious consequences, including shocking headlines and legislative jokes. Dive into the playful marketing tactics of the 1990s, like Taco Bell’s cheeky Liberty Bell campaign. Finally, explore the delicate balance of credibility in journalism alongside unexpected dangers in maple syrup production. This journey blends humor with insightful commentary!

The hosts celebrate their fifth anniversary by diving into five intriguing themes from American history. They emphasize how pettiness can shape both personal and political landscapes. The discussion navigates the irony of Americans' resistance to taxes while demanding services. They reflect on the Civil War's echoes in today’s society, especially regarding race and rights. With humorous anecdotes, the trio also looks back at their journey, expressing gratitude to listeners for sharing in the exploration of history.

Dive into the catchy world of 'I'm Just A Bill' and discover how this beloved Schoolhouse Rock song taught generations about the legislative process. The hosts explore its cultural impact and nostalgia, connecting it to modern memes and parenting challenges. With a satirical twist, they examine the complexities of governance and the gridlock of Congress. Reflecting on personal milestones and how they mirror legislative hurdles adds a humorous touch to this engaging conversation about civic education and childhood memories.

On March 25, 1980, a Tucson church boldly declared itself a sanctuary for immigrants, challenging U.S. law. The discussion highlights the church sanctuary movement's roots and the moral dilemmas faced by faith communities amid government opposition. Delving into the historical significance of churches as safe havens, the conversation connects past struggles with today's social justice issues. Listeners are prompted to rethink morality and the role of religious progressivism in responding to injustices, linking it to broader civil rights movements.

The conversation dives into the cultural significance of Paul Simon's 'Graceland,' exploring its connection to seasonal themes and the anti-apartheid movement. Nostalgia flows as the hosts dissect emotional ties to songs like 'Slip Slidin' Away.' They celebrate Simon's unique ability to age gracefully in music while navigating the contrasts between summer and winter vibes. The discussion also touches on the controversial political implications of the album and the evocative lyrics that resonate with personal identities and broader cultural themes.

It's March 23rd. This day in 1775, Patrick Henry of Virginia gave a speech in which he (maybe) uttered one of the more famous phrases in American political history.Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss how Henry came to give such a fiery speech, the reaction from those in the room -- and why it's hard to know exactly what he said, if it matters at all.Sign up for our newsletter! Find out more at thisdaypod.comAnd don’t forget about Oprahdemics, hosted by Kellie, coming soon from Radiotopia.This Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Our website is thisdaypod.com Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Julie Shapiro and Audrey Mardavich, Executive Producers at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

It's March 17th. Today (actually, March 12th) in New Hampshire kicked off its first lotto system, ushering in a new era of state-sanctioned and state-run gambling that continues to grow today.Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined by Ian Coss, host and produer of the new series "Scratch & Win" from GBH. They discuss what the lotto was like in those early days, how it's evolved -- and whether they actually provide a fiscal solution for the states that run them.Be sure to check out Ian's full series -- all 8 parts are out now!Sign up for our newsletter! Find out more at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Our website is thisdaypod.com Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Julie Shapiro and Audrey Mardavich, Executive Producers at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Today, an episode from the archives that may provide some context for the news playing out today. We'll be doing more Sunday episodes -- from the archives and fresh conversations -- throghout the first year of the second Trump administration.///It’s October 24th. This day in 1973, former Beatle John Lennon sued the U.S. government, demanding to know whether he was under FBI surveillance.Jody, Niki, and Kellie are joined by Hrishikesh Hirway of Song Exploder to discuss Lennon’s post-Beatles political life, his personal evolution, the threat of deportation he faced, and what was in his FBI file.Check out Hrishi’s new music, his TED Talk, Song Exploder episode with John Lennon, and lots more here.Sign up for our newsletter! Find out more at thisdaypod.comAnd don’t forget about Oprahdemics, hosted by Kellie, coming soon from Radiotopia.This Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Our website is thisdaypod.com Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Julie Shapiro and Audrey Mardavich, Executive Producers at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices