Historable

It took us 100 episodes but it's finally happening - this week, Historable presents the Knights Templar! Michelle shares the story of their origins, history along with some conspiracy theories about this powerful group. Cheers to 100!

This holiday season, you better be nice and not naughty or you may get a visit from Krampus! In this episode, Michelle tells us all about this creepy holiday figure that enjoys punishing children for misbehaving during Christmas time. 

This week, Deanna dives deep into the spooky waters of the Bermuda Triangle. This region of the world is filled with lots of mystery, maritime myths, and unexplained phenomena. Hear the story of several vanished ships, missing aircraft, and some of the theories behind them. 

Our spooky nature theme continues this week with a focus on two very creepy islands. First up is Isla de las Muñecas, also known as the Island of the Dead Dolls.  This island is located outside Mexico City and covered in....lots of creepy decaying dolls. Poveglia is a well known haunted island near Venice filled with a history of plagues, mental illness and so much creepiness. Hear the history of these two places and why you may (or may not) want to visit. 

This week, the spookiness continues to one of America's most haunted bodies of water - Lake Lanier. This man made lake has a dark and deadly history that you won't believe. From the Lady of the Lake to an underwater cemetery- this is one body of water we wouldn't want to swim in. 

This week, Deanna covers the story of Heaven's Gate. This was an American cult led by Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles in the 1970s through the 1990s. This group believed that the Earth was about to be wiped clean and that the only way to survive was to leave their human bodies behind and ascend to a spaceship flying behind the Hale-Bopp comet. In this episode, hear about their origins, their story and unfortunate tragic end. 

This week, Michelle tells us about the history of the Aokigahara Forest in Japan. This dense and beautiful forest lies at the edge of Mount Fuji and has many stories that have contributed to its reputation as the Suicide Forest. Learn more about why and how this came to be and the steps that are being taken to help those that may be struggling.*Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You are not alone.*

This week, Michelle addresses the most important question of our time: "How often do you think about the Roman Empire?". If it isn't something that crosses your mind often, get ready for it to invade your thoughts. In this episode, she walks through the extensive history of the rise and eventual fall of this powerful empire. 

This week, Michelle explores a community that focuses on simplicity, faith, and tradition in the modern age: the Amish. Known for their horse-drawn buggies, handmade quilts, and dismissal of many of today's conveniences, the Amish provide a fascinating contrast to the hustle and bustle of 21st-century life. So, whether you're curious about their origins, practices, or their commitment to living "off the grid" - join us as we chat all things Amish!

This episode was originally released in February of 2022.We are still enjoying our summer break but we decided to re-release some of our favorite episodes. This week we cover our first topic for Black History Month. Robert Smalls was an enslaved man working in Charleston Harbor when the American Civil War broke out. On one fateful night he gathered his family, friends and his wits when he attempted and succeeded at stealing a Confederate supply ship which he then sailed north to safety. Robert then returned to the area, but this time fighting for the Union. When the war was over, he kept on fighting as a Representative in the United States Congress.  

This episode was originally released in February of 2022. We are still enjoying our summer break but we decided to re-release some of our favorite episodes. This week Deanna tells us about the life and legacy of Josephine Baker. From a young age, she wowed people with her talent and charm both on and off the stage eventually landing her the opportunity of a lifetime. She took her talents on the road and found a place where she truly felt at home - France. From banana skirts to espionage, Josephine's incredible story was definitely one for the history books.

This episode was originally released in August of 2022.We are still enjoying our summer break but we decided to re-release some of our favorite episodes. Nellie Bly (born Elizabeth Cochran) was a female pioneer in investigative journalism. Some of her major accomplishments include her 1887 exposé on the conditions of asylum patients at Blackwell's Island in New York City and her report of her 72-day trip around the world. Tune in this week to hear all about her life and about her many adventures!

If you've listened to us before, chances are you've heard Deanna talk about her love of the infamous Fyre Festival. We are still in vacay mode, but hope you enjoy this epic Patreon episode from the vault. And fun fact - it's Deanna's first lead host episode! Welcome to Deanna's inaugural deep dive on the disaster that was Fyre Festival. From social media's part in making it blow up to a pretty sad cheese sandwich - let's get in to it!Episode originally released August 20212 Likes

Another week of summer vacation, and another Patreon released from the vault. We hope space doesn't freak you out as much as us. This month, Michelle takes us on a wild ride discussing the conspiracy theory of the The Lost Russian Cosmonauts. Take a listen and let us know what you think! Could there be lost space ships out there? Episode originally released February 2023

While we enjoy our summer vacation, we didn't want to leave our listeners without their weekly dose of Historable. Enjoy this Patreon episode from the vault!This month Deanna tells us all about how with a little perseverance, a music speaker and a really huge ice breaking boat, a group of sailors saved thousands of whales. You'll laugh and you'll cry - or maybe that's just Michelle. Either way, tune in for this heartwarming story.Episode originally released January 2022. 

This week, we have our first official listener's choice episode! Hear all about Appalachian Lore. From Sasquatches to moon-eyed people - there are many different tales to come from this mountain region. Love some lore? We got you. 

This week, Deanna talks about the fascinating life of Alice Roosevelt. She was an American socialite and the daughter of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Alice was well loved by the public and known for her wit, political influence and shenanigans.  

This week, Michelle talks about the life and legacy of Catherine de'Medici. Often referred to as the Black Queen or the Serpent Queen, she definitely left her mark on the history books during her reign in France.  From poison gloves, witchcraft and suspected murder - her tale is one you don't wanna miss!

This week Michelle talks about Harvey Milk. He was instrumental to the civil and human rights movement as the first openly gay man elected to public office in the United States. Learn about his life story, his challenges, triumphs and his unfortunate early end. 

This week, Deanna tells us all about Molly Houses. In 18th Century London, these locations were safe spaces for gay men from all classes to socialize and openly discuss or express their identities. Learn about the history of these secret establishments, their purpose and also about the eventual police raids on some of them. 

This week, Historable Podcast presents their first official two parter episode! We had such a blast talking about the history of Drag that Michelle decided to keep the fun going. In today's episode, hear about the lives of a few of our favorite Drag Queens. Now.....Sashay, Away! 

In honor of Pride month, this week Michelle tells us about the history of the art form known as Drag. From secret shows to epic balls - the performance of exaggerated gender expression dates back centuries. Hear about the history, learn about the original “Queen of Drag” and how drag is making headlines today. 

This week, Deanna covers the emergence and existence of human zoos at the end of the 19th century. Learn about this dark piece of history which aimed to showcase the diversity of human cultures, but unfortunately, instead often exploited and dehumanized individuals. In addition, hear the story of Ota Benga, who was displayed as a human exhibit at the Bronx Zoo. 

This week, Michelle covers a very timely topic - Artificial Intelligence. Hear about the origins of AI, tracing its roots back to Alan Turing (shoutout to episode 52). She also covers the evolution of this groundbreaking technology, from its early triumphs to its present-day impact, as we unravel the fascinating (and somewhat controversial) history behind the rise of artificial intelligence.

This week, Michelle tells us about Empress Wu Zetian, who was the first and only woman emperor of China. Her tale is one of woe, intrigue and lots of drama. Bust out the bubbly - you don't want to miss this crazy tale. 

This week, Michelle talks about the Trail of Tears. This was a dark chapter in United States history when Native American people were displaced from their ancestral land and forced to travel west. Hear about the events leading up to this and the impacts still felt today.  

You probably know of Jane Austen's work but do you know about Jane? This week, Deanna talks about Jane Austen's life, family and dedication to her literary craft. While she wasn't famous during her lifetime, her legacy lives on in her novels and the many media adaptations today.

Mythology is back! This week, Michelle is taking us back to the Viking times and telling us all things Norse Mythology. Hear about the main Gods and Goddesses, along with the tale of the creation and eventual destruction of the world. Did someone say Ragnarök?

Wilma Mankiller was the first woman elected as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation and spent her life fighting for the rights of Native American and women's rights. An activist from a young age, Wilma made an incredible impact on the world and her contributions continue to inspire many today. In this episode, hear all about her life, legacy and why she truly is one of the Baddest B's.

During the summer of 1919, an outbreak of racial violence occurred across the United States. In this episode, Michelle tells us about the “Red Summer” and how it affected several major cities. 

Before Rosa Parks, there was Claudette Colvin.  This week, Deanna tells the story of a brave 15 year old girl who was the first person to be arrested for challenging Montgomery's bus segregation policies. Hear all about her story and the impact she had on the Civil Rights Movement of the time.

This week, Michelle tells the story of Nat Turner. Nathaniel “Nat” Turner led a rebellion of enslaved people in 1831. This ended up being the most deadly slave revolt in the history of the United States which expedited the start of the Civil War. 

In honor of Black History Month, Michelle tells us about a pivotal but relatively unknown moment in U.S. history - the 1898 Wilmington Coup and Massacre. These events were lead by a group of white supremacists set on removing Black Men from public office and taking away their right to vote in North Carolina. These feelings of hate and racism lead to the first and only coup d'etat in U.S. history. 

Get your chicken wings frying and favorite dips ready….it's almost time for the Super Bowl! This week, Michelle tells us all about the origins of one of the biggest days in American Football. Learn about the history of the day and also some cool facts to share with all your friends in between touchdowns. 

This week, Deanna tells us all about the organization known as B.A.C.A. (Bikers Against Child Abuse). This charitable motorcycle club is committed to creating a safer environment for sexually, physically and emotionally abused children worldwide. Hear all about their story, how they help children gain their power back, making them feel safe and protected by their Biker family.   

This week, Michelle gives us another installment of mythology and focuses on Egypt. Hear about one of the many familial lines and some of their craziest myths. You'll never look at salad the same way again. 

Within the state of Nevada there exists a sovereign independent nation you may have never heard about (we certainly hadn't until this episode!). This week, Michelle tells you all about the amazing place known as the Republic of Molossia. Founded by Kevin Baugh, this micronation is seriously legit. Hear all about their history, creative customs and more!

Katharine Wright was the younger sister of Wilbur and Orville Wright aka the plane guys. Without her outgoing personality, hustle mindset and overall awesomeness - it is debatable whether her brothers would have made the history books. This week, Deanna talks all about her life and how her influence truly had an impact on everything aviation.

Michelle's mythology rabbit hole adventure continues with a trip to Ancient Rome. Hear about how Greek mythology influenced many of the Roman Gods and Goddesses along with some of Michelle's favorite myths. Bees, she-wolves, cloud boyfriends and more await you this week!

Gather round this week as Michelle takes us back to Ancient Greece. She tells us about the origins of Greek mythology and also some of our favorite myths. Hear about Zaddy Zeus and all the craziness his kids caused in the ancient times.  

This week, Deanna talks about the history of women's right to vote around the world.  Hear about the global fight along with a deep dive into the women's suffrage movement in the United States. 

We are wrapping up this year's Spooky Month series with a trip to the very spooky city of New Orleans! This week, Deanna tells us all about the mysterious Casket Girls of NOLA. These French women were sent to the city in 1728 in order to find husbands....but instead found a not so warm welcome to their new home. Then the spookiness began.......

It's the 19th Century in France, you're all dressed up and your date comes to pick you up for dinner...and a morgue? This week, Michelle tells us all about the famous public attraction that was the Paris Morgue. Dead bodies were put on display for all to see and this hotspot attracted up to 40,000 people a day. While entertainment for the masses, this institution also lead to the identification of many bodies found in the Seine.  Hear about how it came to be and the popularity of this unconventional tourist stop.

This week, Chicago spookiness continues….in the form of America's first known serial killer. Michelle tells us the story of the Devil in the White City, H.H. Holmes. This con man turned killer used the World's Fair to his advantage and lured unsuspecting guests to his infamous Murder Castle. While the Castle is gone, his legacy remains. 

To kick off spooky month at Historable Podcast, Deanna takes us on a haunted tour of our favorite city - Chicago! Years of history have left their mark on many of the bars, parks and locations we hold near and dear to our hearts. From Al Capone's spirit chilling at a downtown hotel to a spirit named Sharon throwing books off the shelves - Chicago is home to many spooky inhabitants!

Alphonse Capone may be the most infamous gangster in American history with his reign during the Prohibition era as the co-founder and boss of the Chicago Outfit. Known for his multi-million dollar operation in bootlegging, prostitution and gambling - Al made his mark on the organized crime scene. In this episode, Michelle tells us all about the life and times of Scarface and how he took the Roaring 20s to a whole new level in our beloved city. 

The city of Chicago is cool - the Flag of Chicago is even cooler.  This week, Michelle explains how the flag represents some really interesting history of our beloved city! So listen up and get ready to learn how to give a proper Chicago Handshake, or drink one rather. 

On September 8, 2022 Queen Elizabeth II passed away at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. This week, Michelle tells us all about how she came to be Queen and highlights some of her greatest accomplishments along the way. Her reign of over 70 years was the longest of any British monarch and she did so much during that time. From Jubliees, to being a mechanic in WW2 and driving around town - she lived quite the life!

Nellie Bly (born Elizabeth Cochran) was a female pioneer in investigative journalism. Some of her major accomplishments include her 1887 exposé on the conditions of asylum patients at Blackwell's Island in New York City and her report of her 72-day trip around the world. Tune in this week to hear all about her life and about her many adventures!

This week, Michelle takes us to the Wild Wild West and tells the story of Buffalo Bill. From hunting buffalo to running his own traveling show, William Frederick Cody took YOLO to a whole new level. Bust out your cowboy hat and hear about all his adventures!