Forever Ago

Synthesizers are revolutionary instruments. These electronic devices use knobs, buttons and sliders to make different sounds — and you can hear them in all sorts of music, from pop to hip-hop. But that wasn’t always the case. Join Joy and co-host Lilike as they explore the history of the synthesizer and learn one album transformed it from an experimental instrument to an essential hitmaker. We’ll also hear from Switched On Pop producer Reanna Cruz about the legacy of these groovy instruments. All that, plus a new game of First Things First! This episode was sponsored by:Disney+ (ondisneyplus.disney.com/movie/diary-of-a-wimpy-kid-christmas-cabin-fever) Diary of Wimply Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever, streaming only on Disney+ December 8th. Rated PG, parental guidance suggested.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the history and significance of children's libraries, including the push to include spaces for kids and the impact of Anne Carroll Moore on their development. Hear about the joys of finding old books, personal experiences with libraries, and the origins of beloved children's books like 'The Cat in the Hat' and 'If You Give a Mouse a Cookie'.

Discover how the world worked together to save the ozone, from the birth and discovery of ozone-depleting chemicals to the international cooperation that led to the successful Montreal Protocol. Also, learn about small actions making a big difference, the challenges of tackling climate change, and the cultural significance of bucket hats, aviator sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen.

Learn about the history of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and how special incubators saved premature babies. Discover the display of premature babies at a New York City amusement park and the ethical aspects of the operation. Explore the evolution of baby products, from feeding bottles in ancient times to the invention of strollers and pacifiers.

Explore the history of female athletes in the Olympics, from their initial exclusion to their triumphant wins. Learn about the challenges faced by early women competitors and the lack of recognition they received. Discover the inspiring story of Wilma Rudolph, who overcame obstacles to become the fastest woman in the world. Delve into the history of basketball, volleyball, and ping pong in the Olympics, including surprising facts about their origins.

Explore the history of Thanksgiving, debunking the traditional story and highlighting the complex relationship between Native Americans and Europeans. Discover the uncertain origins of Thanksgiving foods and delve into the history of three Thanksgiving traditions: canned cranberry sauce, Thanksgiving Day parade, and the presidential turkey pardon.

Superman, the first superhero, was created by two teens from Cleveland in the 1930s. His origin story was inspired by their experiences as children of immigrants. The hosts discuss creating a new superhero, their favorite superheroes and inventions, and the challenges faced by immigrants. They also explore the early success of Superman, the process of creating their own origin stories, and the impact of popular superheroes. They hint at an upcoming episode on the history of Thanksgiving.

Join Forever Ago for a new season filled with playful riddles and exciting stories from history, starting on November 8th!

Do you know the birthday song? We bet you do! People all over the world sing a version of “Happy Birthday to You.” It’s even been played in OUTER SPACE! Way less well-known, though, is the story behind the song, and the sisters who wrote it! Listen in to hear Elysse tell Joy the story, so she can get inspiration for her own quest to write a solar-system famous song.  Plus, an all new birthday themed First Things First featuring birthday cakes, wrapping paper and piñatas! (edited) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn about the history of electric cars, from their invention in the late 1880s to their decline in popularity compared to gas-powered cars. Explore the rise of electric vehicles in 1897 and the advantages they offered such as smoother rides and quiet operation. Discover the debate on the order of invention for car safety features and the current resurgence of electric cars due to advancements in technology and environmental benefits.