Our American Stories

On this episode of Our American Stories, when the first Star Wars movie was released in 1977, many expected it to fail. The production was plagued with setbacks, and even George Lucas doubted it would connect with audiences. Instead, A New Hope became a cultural landmark, launching one of the most successful franchises in movie history. Author Chris Taylor shares how a film that nearly collapsed turned into a global phenomenon. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, in 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first Black player in Major League Baseball since the 1880s, stepping onto the field for the Brooklyn Dodgers and into history. The abuse he endured was relentless, from racial slurs in the stands to resistance in the dugout. Yet Robinson refused to respond in kind. His strength came from something deeper: a faith that guided him through the fight. Historian Dr. Gary Scott Smith shares how Robinson’s courage not only broke baseball’s color barrier but also made him a vital figure in the civil rights movement, inspiring generations far beyond the game. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, before the U.S. Constitution was written, America lived under the Articles of Confederation, a system so weak it nearly broke the young republic. States held most of the power, Congress couldn’t raise money or enforce laws, and unrest spread from coast to coast. Dr. Larry Arnn of Hillsdale College explains how the Constitutional Convention of 1787 replaced chaos with order, creating a framework built on federalism, separation of powers, and a strong central government. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, for years, Danielle Mickelson poured her energy into building a small but growing food business. Then, a wave of regulations stopped her in her tracks. What followed was an unlikely legal battle that pitted a single entrepreneur against a web of rules and administrative overreach. But with the Institute of Justice, Danielle fought back. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, author and regular contributor to Our American Stories, Winter Prosapio, shares what it feels like to be a mother who is constantly giving. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, Johnny Cash’s life was as raw and unforgettable as his music. Known for songs like I Walk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues, and Ring of Fire, Cash also battled addiction, broken relationships, and inner turmoil. What makes him an American icon is not just his music but how he found redemption through faith, resilience, and the love of June Carter Cash. Author Greg Laurie shares how Cash’s struggles and triumphs gave his songs lasting power and why his story continues to inspire. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, for more than a century, Daisy has been synonymous with B.B. guns. First launched in Michigan and later based in Arkansas, the company grew from small beginnings into the most recognized name in the industry. Its Red Ryder model became an icon of American childhood, sparking memories of backyard target practice and the famous line from A Christmas Story: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” Joe Murfin tells the story of how Daisy turned a simple air rifle into an enduring symbol of American culture. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, The Old Dominick Distillery story begins in 1859 with an Italian immigrant and a fruit cart in Memphis. Generations later, Alex Castle made history as the first female head distiller in Tennessee since Prohibition. Together, their legacy shaped Old Dominick into a landmark of Tennessee whiskey and a symbol of tradition and innovation in American distilling. Here's Alex with the story. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, sneakers may seem like simple shoes, but their story is tied to the growth of modern America. Nicholas Smith, author of Kicks: The Great American Story of Sneakers, shares how these once-humble athletic shoes became a defining part of our culture. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Our American Stories, Blockbuster was once the king of video rental stores, with thousands of locations across the world. At its peak, the company even had the chance to buy Netflix. Former Blockbuster CEO Jim Keyes tells the story of how close the company came to surviving, and why it ultimately became a case study in missed opportunities. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.