
Forever Ago
Brains On presents Forever Ago®, a history show for the whole family! Every episode looks into the surprising and fascinating history of things we think are ordinary, but they’re not -- like ice cream flavors, video games, baths and more. We make learning about the past fun while teaching listeners to think critically about history.
Latest episodes

Dec 6, 2023 • 27min
Operation ozone: how the world patched up the hole in the sky
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.

Nov 29, 2023 • 34min
Babies on the Boardwalk: History of the NICU
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.

Nov 22, 2023 • 27min
Who was the first woman to win an olympic medal?
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.

Nov 15, 2023 • 27min
Gobble Gobble! What’s the real history of Thanksgiving?
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.

Nov 8, 2023 • 33min
Superman: An immigrant's story
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.

Oct 25, 2023 • 1min
Forever Ago is back November 8th!
Join Forever Ago for a new season filled with playful riddles and exciting stories from history, starting on November 8th!

Jul 5, 2023 • 29min
Happy Birthday to You: The story of the world's most popular song
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)

Jun 28, 2023 • 33min
It’s Electric! The history of electric cars
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.

Jun 21, 2023 • 37min
TGIF: Where did the weekend come from?
Uh oh, Joy has a big problem: too many fun things to do every weekend and not enough time to do them all. In this episode, she and cohost Asa are on a mission to make the weekend longer!But where did the weekend come from? And why is it two days, instead of one or five? Turns out, it all started when factories began opening up in the 1800s. Tag along with Joy and Asa as they learn how workers pushed for more time off – and eventually helped create the two-day weekend! Plus, see if you can crack an all-new First Things First, featuring comic strips, waffles and orange juice concentrate!Kiwico.com - Use promo code forever to get 50% off your first month and free shipping

Jun 14, 2023 • 33min
Yee-Haw! The hidden history of Black cowboys
Join Joy and Aaliyah in exploring the hidden history of Black cowboys in the Wild West. Learn about Nate Love, a former slave who became a renowned horse trainer, and Bill Pickett, an African American and Cherokee cowboy famous for his unique technique of taming cows. Discover the fascinating story of Bass Reeves, a black cowboy deputy known for his skill in capturing outlaws and bringing justice.