Viva America

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Travel | True Crime | History Hi! I'm Marilyn. After traveling with my family to all 50 states, I am fascinated by the stories this country has to tell. The good ones and the bad ones. The Viva America podcast won’t just share the morbid, terrifying and h


    • Apr 18, 2022 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 52m AVG DURATION
    • 18 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Viva America

    E17: The uniquely pristine beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park | The nightmare of a child being swallowed by the sand on the shores of Lake Michigan

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2022 51:07


    One of the country's newest national parks on the coast of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is a great spot for families to enjoy some time together. For one family, back in 2013, they could have never imagined the nightmare their family would endure. Join us as we tell the fairly recent story of a boy that was swallowed into the dune and some of the lessons scientists have learned since. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: Save the Dunes - Established in 1952, the mission of Save the Dunes is to protect and advocate for the Indiana dunes, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding natural areas for the betterment of the environment and the people who live, work, and recreate in Northwest Indiana. Organization Website: https://savedunes.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/mystery-why-dangerous-sand-dune-swallowed-boy-180953404/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/indiana-sand-dune-trapped-boy-remains-closed-3-years/ https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-miracle-mount-baldy-met-20140914-story.html https://www.nps.gov/indu/learn/news/newsreleases.htm https://historydaily.org/sand-dune-swallows-child-freakish-phenomenon-nearly-claims-boys-life https://www.kokomotribune.com/news/nation_an_world_news/all-involved-agree-sand-dune-rescue-a-miracle/article_4d8b207c-ed73-50b0-b572-f2b58ab6735e.html

    E16: The San Juan Islands of Washington State | and how their existence as part of the US is related to a murdered pig and a German Kaiser

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2022 55:01


    The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful parts of our country. But many who travel there, don't venture farther north than Seattle. But the San Juan Islands are not to be missed. Join us this week as Cameron shares the story how their existence as part of the US is related to a murdered pig and a German Kaiser. We also sneak in a few stories about the Manassas Castle - considered one of the most haunted places on the West Coast. Enjoy!

    E15: A haunting journey on the Natchez Trace in Mississippi | When they say that it's like driving through 10,000 years of history, they aren't kidding.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2022 52:22


    There's something for everyone in today's episode. If you plan to check Mississippi off of your travel list, this episode has some awesome ideas for you. We visit the Natchez Trace itself, a 444 mile scenic drive that almost no one knows about - Rocky Springs - a ghost town that you can visit to this day, Windsor Mansion - today known as Windsor Ruins (for a reason) and the very mysterious place known as Witches Dance. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: Fuller Center Bike Adventure - building a better world one house at a time. They host a bike race where participants bike all 444 miles of the Natchez Trace! Organization Website: https://www.fullercenterbikeadventure.org/natchez/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natchez_Trace https://www.legendsofamerica.com/ms-windsorruins/ https://www.legendsofamerica.com/ms-witchdance/

    E14: The secrets of the Bermuda Triangle | It's legendary for a reason.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2022 64:18


    We have probably all heard of the Bermuda Triangle, but join us this episode to explore what makes it legendary. From its sheer size and scope to all the things that make it unimaginably unique. The triangle is the final resting place to many.

    E13: A cold case murder steps from Acadia National Park | And the unforgettable dog with the red bandana.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2022 48:49


    This murder actually takes places JUST beyond the boundaries of the Acadia National Park. Leslie Spellman had never hiked alone. What a cruel twist of fate that she would be dead within 24 hours of doing so for the first time. Though her dog with the red bandana makes it out alive, to this day Leslie's murder remains a mystery. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: Friends of Acadia preserves, protects, and promotes stewardship of the outstanding natural beauty, ecological vitality, and distinctive cultural resources of Acadia National Park and surrounding communities for the inspiration and enjoyment of current and future generations. Organization Website: https://friendsofacadia.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: Death in Acadia: And Other Misadventures in Maine's National Park By Randi Minetor https://www.darkdowneast.com/episodes/lesliespellman https://www.foxbangor.com/news/item/48570-asticou-azalea-garden-1977-murder-still-unsolved/ https://books.google.com/books?id=FjaPDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=leslie+spellman+red+bandana&source=bl&ots=HT9rdOGg_5&sig=ACfU3U3kMleIDguWigkgBtH2Wcl89KRx4A&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiZ_tvNnoX2AhVLSTABHTquALMQ6AF6BAgYEAM#v=onepage&q=leslie%20spellman%20red%20bandana&f=false https://murderpedia.org/male.H/h/hicks-james.htm

    E12: Meet the rest of the family! | On our first Family Reunion episode we revisit our previous stories to get some perspective from the rest of the family.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2022 47:00


    We decided to invite Adam and Lexie onto the podcast today to give their perspective about the stories we have shared and the trips we have been on. Get to know our family a little better with today's episode. Enjoy!

    E11: When tragedy and beauty intersect | The Grand Canyon mid-air collision that you've never heard of.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2022 62:44


    The Grand Canyon is one of our country's most popular National Parks and even one of the 7 natural wonders of the WORLD. When I heard about the mid-air collision of 2 passenger planes in 1956 I was shocked that I had never heard of it. This episode dives in to the tragedy thanks to Mike Nelson, one of the family members of an unfortunate soul aboard one of the planes that day. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: Organization description: Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park and has been supporting the Grand Canyon for over 90 years. Their vision consists of 3 main points. They want to see: A precious natural and cultural resource that is forever safeguarded. Indigenous people and connected communities who are thriving. Memorable experiences that welcome, ground, invigorate, and inspire. Organization Website: https://www.grandcanyon.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm The book - “We are going in” by Mike Nelson - more info here: ​​https://wearegoingin.com/

    E10: It seems like the last thing the City Museum should be called is a museum | The fascinating history behind the creation of the City Museum and the mysterious death of its creator.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2022 64:16


    The City Museum in St. Louise, Missouri is a playground for all ages. Today we share the result of Bob Cassily's eccentric vision as well as his mysterious death. Thanks for joining us on this adventure. Sources for this episode are: https://www.citymuseum.org/about-us/history/ https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/city-museum-founders-widow-believes-her-husbands-death-in-2011-was-murder/article_08e16daf-b457-507d-9a38-9a7bccbad21c.html

    E9: What do Cayo Costa, Key West and Cameron's first concert have in common? | Florida might have a lot of crazy, but it's got a lot of really good vibes as well.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2022 55:29


    If you think of sandy beaches, flip flops and sunshine when you think of Florida, this episode is for you. We visit Cayo Costa State Park where visitors can camp in one of Florida's most natural settings. Throw in how this place connects to Key West and legends like Jimmy Buffet and you've got quite and adventure! The organization we are highlighting this episode is Singing for Change Turning good vibes into good deeds.  Singing for change supports nonprofit organizations, large and small, that provide compelling opportunities for individuals to discover their power to make a difference. Organization Website: https://www.singingforchange.org/about-us BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: ​​https://www.floridastateparks.org/CayoCosta https://cabbagekey.com/dining/ https://www.wanderwoman.ca/cabbage-key/ https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/wm12P29_Jimmy_Buffett_Captain_Tonys_Saloon_Key_West_FL https://www.news-press.com/story/life/food/2020/03/31/cabbage-key-donates-6-000-plus-fallen-dollars-covid-19-charities/5087116002/

    E8: Central State Hospital was once the world's largest mental hospital | Today it lies in ruins and holds the secrets of over a hundred years of secrets.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2022 71:48


    If you have never heard of the Central State Hospital in Milledgeville, GA… well today is the day. Once the largest mental hospital in the world, it's history is astonishing and still mostly a secret today. Join us for a horrible dive into the past of this hospital and the history of mental health itself. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: NAMI GEORGIA NAMI Georgia strives to : advocate at the county, state and national levels for non-discriminatory access to quality healthcare, housing , education and employment for people with mental illness. educate the public about mental illness. work to eliminate the stigma of mental illness. advocate for increased funding for research into the causes and treatment of mental illness. https://namiga.org/get-involved/donate/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://www.ajc.com/news/state--regional/asylum-dark-past-relived-cycle-ends/uq2OK0dgHCeynhFUGba36O/ https://georgialibraries.omeka.net/s/central-state-hospital/page/the-beginning http://www.peteearley.com/2019/03/15/the-worlds-largest-mental-asylum-from-the-horrors-of-the-back-wards-to-todays-jails-and-prisons/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5bUS7JMU5s

    E7: Lake Tahoe and the secrets of it's cold, dark waters | Are those that were given a pair of cement shoes still swimming with the fishes today?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2022 45:15


    Lake Tahoe has long been a playground for the rich and famous. More often than not, wealth and fame is a close friend to crime and power. But what really lies behind the legends that the lake is the final resting place those who dared to cross the mob back in the 50's & 60's? And that the cold, dark waters have preserved those bodies to the extent that they would be recognizable today? Let's explore. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: Organization description: The League to Save Lake Tahoe protects and restores the environmental health, sustainability and scenic beauty of the Lake Tahoe Basin. We focus on water quality and its clarity for the preservation of a pristine Lake for future generations. BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://www.history.com/news/frank-sinatra-mob-ties-fbi-file https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/news/tahoes-good-fellas/ https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jacques-Cousteau https://snowbrains.com/the-history-of-the-cal-neva-lodge-on-lake-tahoe/ https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2011-aug-09-la-me-missing-diver-20110809-story.html https://www.britannica.com/biography/Frank-Sinatra/The-Rat-Pack-and-the-mob https://blog.padi.com/how-deep-can-you-scuba-dive-maximum-depth/

    E6: Harpers Ferry & the white man named John Brown | His attempt at a slave revolt that ended with his demise, but helped ignite the nation.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2021 50:12


    John Brown was a man that believed he knew what was right and what was wrong. And while his views will ultimately land on the right side of history, his methods are what led to his demise. The organization we are highlighting this episode is: The Harpers Ferry-Bolivar Historic Town Foundation which “unites two towns with a vision of inspiring citizens and visitors alike with our history, beauty, diversity and hospitality. The Foundation's initiatives focus on the historic preservation, promotion and beautification of our towns for the enjoyment and benefit of all. We seek to preserve the rich history of Harpers Ferry and Bolivar, learn from its people and build upon their legacies.” Organization Website: https://historicharpersferry.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/john-brown-hanged https://www.britannica.com/place/Harpers-Ferry https://www.battlefields.org/learn/civil-war/battles/harpers-ferry ​​Harper's Ferry by Charles River Editors http://theresashauntedhistoryofthetri-state.blogspot.com/2011/12/hilltop-house-hotel.html

    E5: The Cowee Tunnel Tragedy & Great Smoky Mountain Railroad | Today it's an idilic excursion but the tracks we now ride upon came at a very high price.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2021 36:42


    Today it's an idilic excursion but the tracks we now ride upon came at a very high price. As many railroads in this country, they were built during a time in history where slavery had been abolished. But the men who labored on these tracks were anything but free and ultimately the victims of a system that made sure it stayed that way. In this episode we explore the incredibly tragic Cowee Tunnel Disaster and discuss the brokenness of the times. The charity for this show is the Jackson County NAACP which has worked hard to ensure these stories are told and have been working towards getting a historical marker for this tragedy. You can learn more about them at: http://jacksonncnaacp.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Our sources for this episode are: https://smokymountainnews.com/archives/item/26780-the-tears-of-these-poor-men-victims-of-cowee-tunnel-disaster-deserve-recognition https://smokymountainnews.com/archives/item/10992-1882-cowee-tunnel-disaster-comes-into-21st-century-spotlight https://www.gsmr.com/events/polar-express/ https://americansall.org/legacy-story-group/civil-war-black-codes-summary-pre-jim-crow-laws https://www.facebook.com/GaryCardenStoryteller

    E4: Clingman's Dome & the disappearance of Trenny Lynn Gibson | When a school field trip turns into a 45 year old unsolved mystery.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2021 61:46


    This episode we are visiting the country's most visited National Park - Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The most accessible hike in this park, Clingman's Dome is full of beauty and history and yes... some awful things too. This episode we explore Clingman's Dome & the disappearance of Trenny Lynn Gibson. When a school field trip turns into a 45 year old unsolved mystery. The charity for this episode is The Charley Project. The Charley Project profiles over 15,000 “cold case” missing people mainly from the United States. Learn more about them at: https://charleyproject.org/ BECOME A PATREON HERE: https://www.patreon.com/vivaamerica Sources: visitmysmokies.com Unsolved Disapperances in the Smokies by Juanitta Baldwin and Ester Grubb https://investigationsforthemissing.org/blog/f/gone-in-the-smoky-mountains-trenny-gibsons-disappearance Podcasts interviewing Laura Riste, case specialist

    E3: The Tomb Guards at Arlington National Cemetery | At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the standard remains perfection.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2021 55:27


    The Tomb Guards at Arlington National Cemetery | At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the standard remains perfection. We've likely all at least heard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This episode will share some absolutely fascinating information about the memorial itself and the soldiers who guard it. The charity for this episode is Wreaths Across America which coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 2,500 additional locations. They note that during the holidays, In many homes, there is an empty seat for one who is serving or one who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Learn more about them at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org Information from this episode came from: https://tombguard.org/ https://www.oldguard.mdw.army.mil/regiment https://oldguard.mdw.army.mil/docs/recruiting/tog-recruiting-packet https://www.memorialdayfoundation.org/memorials/tomb-guard-sentinels.html https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/71005/10-facts-about-tomb-unknown-soldier Pocast: Mission Inspire - Episode Seven: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier that is an episode with Gavin McIlvenna, former tomb guard and President of the Society of the Honor Guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

    E2: Mount Marathon in Seward Alaska | The triumph & heartbreak of one of our nation's oldest races.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2021 56:23


    Mount Marathon in Seward Alaska - The triumph & heartbreak of one of our nation's oldest races. Seward Alaska is a small but mighty port town in Alaska with a small but mighty mountain which has contributed to the history, culture and even mystery of this town. Join us to hear about the unique individuals and events that have put Seward on the map. Our charity of the week is: https://coveycares.org/ Sources: Mount Marathon: Alaska's Great Footrace by Millie Spezialy https://www.adn.com/crime-justice/article/seward-lemaitre-settle-case-missing-mount-marathon-runner-20000/2014/10/15/ https://www.alaskapublic.org/2021/07/09/listen-how-did-this-anchorage-runner-go-missing-in-a-popular-mountain-race/ https://mountmarathon.com/

    E1: Angel's Landing @ Zion National Park | What goes up, comes down... one way or another.

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2021 56:52


    Angel's Landing is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park. It's also one of the most dangerous. This episode tells some of the stories of those who have fallen. At the end of the day, they are just like you or I or anyone else. Their stories allow us to remember them, learn from them and appreciate the wonder that they no doubt also had for Zion National Park. The organization nominated for a donation from this episode is Camp Chewonki in Maine in memory of Savannah McTague. You can learn more about them here: https://camp.chewonki.org/ Below you can find the various resources researched to share these stories: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm https://utah.com/zion-national-park/angels-landing https://www.thespectrum.com/story/news/2019/11/17/lower-emerald-pools-trail-closure-zion-national-park-update/4226373002/ https://www.facebook.com/savannah.m.mctague Death in Zion National Park Stories of Accidents and Foolhardiness in Utah's Grand Circle” by Randi Minetor https://www.downthetrail.com/exploring-utah/angels-landing-trail-guide-zion-deaths/ https://wgme.com/news/local/maine-woman-who-died-in-national-park-remembered-as-gifted-student https://www.sltrib.com/news/2018/02/06/angels-landing-trail-in-zion-national-park-is-closed-after-hiker-dies/ https://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2009/08/angels-landing-update-1.html https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/2007/06/st-louis-man-dies-fall-angels-landing https://www.deseret.com/2006/8/23/19970089/fatal-fall-at-zion-is-investigated https://archive.sltrib.com/story.php?ref=/utah/ci_3934362 https://www.deseret.com/1989/4/5/18801559/preliminary-autopsy-shows-no-sign-of-foul-play-in-death-of-zion-hiker-br-but-park-service-officials

    Viva America Podcast Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2021 1:00


    Viva America Podcast Trailer Travel | True Crime | History Hi there! I'm Marilyn. And welcome to the Viva America Podcast. After traveling with my family to all 50 states, I am fascinated by the stories this country has to tell. The good ones and the bad ones. And people are always asking about our adventures and the places we have visited. The Viva America podcast won't just share the morbid, terrifying and haunting stories of this nation, but the inspirational, wholesome and inspiring stories as well. Balance is good. Join my son, Cameron, and I as we reflect on the places that we have visited and share stories that fascinate us. Or horrify us. Or inspire us. Or fill us with despair. Or make us want to head out on another adventure. After all, In the infamous words of Forrest Gump, Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get.

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