Witness History

Alberto Aleman Zubieta, the former Administrator of the Panama Canal, takes listeners back to the historic handover from the U.S. to Panama in 1999. He vividly recounts the emotional atmosphere of the ceremony, showcasing the pride and hopes of a nation gaining sovereignty. Zubieta discusses the pivotal role of the canal in global shipping and reflects on the complexities surrounding the transfer amid Y2K fears. This moment symbolized not only a shift in control but also a friendship between the two nations.

Clyde Kusatsu, an actor and the son of Matsuichi Kusatsu from the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, shares the compelling journey of Japanese American soldiers during WWII. He discusses the courage it took for these men to fight prejudice while serving their country, revealing how they transformed their internment trauma into valor on the battlefield. Clyde reflects on the 442nd's heroic rescue mission during the Battle of the Lost Battalion, and delves into the surreal, personal stories that highlight both sacrifice and legacy in the face of adversity.

Fidel Castro, the iconic leader of the 1953 Cuban revolution attempt, shares riveting insights about his early days as a guerrilla fighter. He recalls the audacious attack on military barracks during carnival, aiming to capitalize on soldiers' festivities but facing a brutal defeat. Castro’s reflections reveal the deep motivations rooted in social justice and artistic expression that fueled his fight for change. He discusses the creation of a powerful revolutionary anthem that rallied support and the mixed emotions of hope and uncertainty among his fellow revolutionaries.

Nalini Malani, an Indian artist known for her work on social and political issues, reflects on India’s 1998 nuclear tests and their ramifications. She shares her memories of the national pride felt by some and the disapproval from others who viewed it as a betrayal of Gandhi's ideals. Malani discusses her impactful video installation that captured the horrors of nuclear conflict, revealing the personal trauma from the partition of India, and explores how these historical events shaped the artistic landscape in 1990s India.

Julia Gillard, the first female Prime Minister of Australia, shares her groundbreaking perspective on sexism in politics. She recounts her emotional and powerful speech in 2012 that confronted deep-rooted misogyny faced by women leaders. Gillard reflects on the shifting political landscape, the mixed media reactions, and the ongoing challenges of female leadership. Her insights reveal the profound impact of her words, advocating for gender equality and empowering women in positions of power.

Maria Teresa Horta, a pioneering Portuguese feminist poet and activist, discusses her role in the 'Three Marias' who challenged oppression in 1970s Portugal. She delves into the controversy surrounding their groundbreaking book ‘Novas Cartas Portuguesas’, which sparked protests and censorship. Horta shares her personal struggles against the Estado Novo regime, highlighting how poetry became a powerful tool for defiance. The conversation also touches on the impact of the Carnation Revolution and the birth of the women’s liberation movement in Portugal.

Discover the remarkable journey of a Hungarian scientist who revolutionized medicine with her pioneering mRNA research. From humble beginnings, she faced skepticism and setbacks but remained determined to prove her theories. Collaborating with a fellow scientist, they unlocked the potential of mRNA technology, which became crucial for Covid vaccines. Her perseverance led to recognition as a Nobel Prize winner in 2023, celebrating her significant contributions to global health. Tune in for a story of resilience and groundbreaking science.

Gloria Steinem reflects on the revolutionary launch of Ms. Magazine in 1972, the first feminist publication by women, for women. She discusses the challenges of bringing serious women's issues like equal rights and domestic violence into mainstream media. The podcast highlights the critical need for a dedicated platform, showcasing how a group of determined women came together in New York City to amplify feminine voices. Through storytelling and dialogue, it reveals Ms. Magazine's enduring influence and legacy in the fight for women's rights.

Clemens Ruland, an HIV-positive traveler and advocate, shares his groundbreaking journey as the first person to legally enter the U.S. after the travel ban was lifted in 2010. He reflects on the stigma and fear surrounding the HIV epidemic, as well as the bureaucratic hurdles he faced during the ban. The discussion highlights the emotional and political significance of the moment, showcasing a pivotal change in immigration policy and societal attitudes towards those living with HIV. Clemens’ story embodies resilience and the fight for acceptance.

David Smythe, a Scottish geophysicist from the University of Glasgow, shares his experiences working on the Kola Superdeep Borehole, the deepest man-made hole on Earth. He discusses the ambitious Soviet drilling project aimed at understanding the Earth's crust during the Cold War. Listeners will hear about the collaboration between East and West, the challenges of harsh living conditions, and the high-stakes moments of triumph in the drilling process, including the excitement of recovering lost equipment.