
Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff
As long as there’s been oppression, there’ve been people fighting it. This weekly podcast dives into history to drag up the wildest rebels, the most beautiful revolts, and all the people who long to be—and fight to be—free. It explores complex stories of resistance that offer lessons and inspiration for us today, focusing on the ensemble casts that make up each act of history. That is to say, this podcast focuses on Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff.
Latest episodes

Aug 18, 2024 • 27min
CZM Book Club: Three Stories From Japanese Folklore
Margaret, a captivating storyteller, shares mesmerizing tales from Japanese folklore, focusing on demons and moon maidens. Listeners dive into adventurous narratives like Suna's courageous stand against horned imps, highlighting bravery and challenges. The tension builds in the haunted demon castle where Shitendoji resides, offering a glimpse of both beauty and terror. The enchanting story of a fisherman and the Moon Maiden explores themes of desire and sacrifice, weaving moral lessons into these timeless tales.

Aug 14, 2024 • 57min
Part Two: Ben Fletcher, Local 8, and the Fighting, Antiracist Union of Philadelphia
Margaret finishes talking to Miriam about maybe the coolest union local in US history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 12, 2024 • 1h
Part One: Ben Fletcher, Local 8, and the Fighting, Antiracist Union of Philadelphia
Margaret talks to Miriam about maybe the coolest union local in US history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 11, 2024 • 23min
CZM Book Club: "John Simnel's First Goshawk" by Tegan Moore
Margaret reads you a story about a boy who could have been king but instead talks to birds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 7, 2024 • 59min
Part Two: Joan of Arc Was Even Cooler Than I Thought
Margaret finishes talking with Molly Conger about two women who changed the course of history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 5, 2024 • 1h 3min
Part One: Joan of Arc Was Even Cooler Than I Thought
Margaret talks with Molly Conger about two women who changed the course of history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 4, 2024 • 35min
CZM Book Club: "Spring Woods Spring" by B. Pladek
Margaret reads you a story about where personal grief meets climate grief.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 2min
Part Two: The Reichstag Fire Was Not An Inside Job
Margaret finishes telling Karl Kasarda the story of Marinus van der Lubbe, the council communist who tried to spark a civil war against the Nazis and failed spectacularly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jul 29, 2024 • 53min
Part One: The Reichstag Fire Was Not An Inside Job
Karl Kasarda, a historian focused on Nazi-era events, discusses Marinus van der Lubbe, a council communist who attempted to ignite civil unrest against the Nazis. The conversation highlights Van der Lubbe's struggles and misadventures, showcasing his disillusionment with authority and evolution into a rebellious figure. They also delve into the manipulative tactics used during the Reichstag Fire event, revealing how political dissent was crushed and authoritarian power was centralized in Nazi Germany. It's a captivating exploration of history and activism.

Jul 28, 2024 • 28min
CZM Book Club: Stories About Nightingale the Robber
Dive into captivating Russian folklore with tales of Nightingale the Robber, a character teetering between heroism and villainy. The analysis of translations reveals layers of complexity in both Nightingale and Ilya of Murim. Join Elia on his adventurous quest filled with robbers, a princess, and the pursuit of treasure, showcasing themes of bravery and moral dilemmas. The discussion also critiques traditional hero narratives, sparking thoughts on the intricacies of morality in fables, making for an enthralling listen.