

Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff
Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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.

Jul 24, 2024 • 55min
Part Four: Operation Nemesis and Armenian Resistance to Genocide
James Stout discusses Operation Nemesis, the assassination missions targeting Turkish leaders post-genocide. The podcast explores the historical context, covert operations, and moral complexities of seeking justice. It also touches on political intrigue, migrant struggles, and the pursuit of redemption amidst turbulent times.

Jul 22, 2024 • 49min
Part Three: Operation Nemesis and Armenian Resistance to Genocide
James Stout discusses the group of unlikely heroes who assassinated the architects of the Armenian genocide. The podcast explores Armenian resistance, the brutal nature of the genocide, and the impact of genocidal violence. It also delves into Kurdish involvement, acknowledgment, and Sakhoman Talirian's revolutionary acts during World War I.

Jul 21, 2024 • 36min
CZM Book Club: "The Orchard of Tomorrow" by Kelsea Yu
Author Kelsea Yu discusses her book 'The Orchard of Tomorrow' in the Cool Zone Media Book Club. The podcast delves into themes of love, rebuilding the world, nostalgia in a peach orchard, pursuit of immortality, and complex relationships. It also features a heated conversation, reflections on past choices, and exploration of allegories and concepts within the story.

Jul 17, 2024 • 50min
Part Two: Operation Nemesis and Armenian Resistance to Genocide
James Stout discusses the group of unlikely heroes who assassinated the architects of the Armenian genocide. Topics include Armenian resistance movements, revolutionary actions, roles of anarchist women in historical events, and the Ottoman Empire's involvement in World War I.