Ideas and culture from West of the 98th Meridian
The West of 98 podcast is a truly exceptional show that I highly recommend to anyone interested in engaging and informative discussions. Hosted by James, the podcast covers a wide range of topics and provides incredible insights into various subjects. From history and culture to current events and personal stories, this podcast captivates its listeners with its unique content.
One of the best aspects of The West of 98 podcast is James' delivery and content. His style is engaging, and he has an excellent ability to convey information in a clear and coherent manner. Whether he's discussing historical events or sharing his thoughts on current issues, James keeps his audience hooked from start to finish. His passion for the topics he covers shines through, making each episode both enjoyable and educational.
Another notable aspect of this podcast is the breadth of topics covered. The West of 98 explores a wide range of subjects, ensuring there's something for everyone. This variety keeps the show fresh and exciting, as you never know what fascinating discussion awaits in each episode. James' ability to navigate diverse topics while still maintaining a cohesive theme is truly impressive.
While it may seem challenging to find any flaws with The West of 98 podcast, there are a few minor issues worth mentioning. Firstly, episodes are not released on a consistent schedule. While understandable given the time-consuming nature of producing high-quality content, it can be frustrating for eager listeners who anxiously await new episodes. Additionally, some episodes may occasionally feel rushed or lack in-depth exploration due to time constraints. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from overall enjoyment.
In conclusion, The West of 98 podcast is an outstanding production that deserves recognition for its engaging content and excellent delivery by James. It consistently delivers informative discussions on diverse topics while keeping listeners entertained throughout each episode. Although there may be occasional inconsistencies in release schedules or depth of exploration, these minor drawbacks should not discourage anyone from giving this fantastic podcast a listen. Overall, The West of 98 is an excellent addition to the podcasting world and one that is sure to leave you eagerly awaiting each new episode.
Today's episode is the first in-depth discussion on a specific topic of importance to rural communities, swimming pools. This details why swimming pools are important to a community, discussing the concept of "third place." It also discusses the story of the city pool here in Stamford, Texas, how admission became free in 2018, and the impacts on the community of free pool admission. Read more about the idea of third place here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place If you would like to learn more about the sad, infuriating history behind segregated swimming pools, read here (warning: it's not enjoyable): story https://theconversation.com/the-forgotten-history-of-segregated-swimming-pools-and-amusement-parks-119586 Check out the Facebook page for the Stamford City Pool to learn more about our summer events and big goals that will be announced later in the summer: https://www.facebook.com/stamfordcitypool Subscribe to my weekly essays and contact me here: westof98.substack.com
This episode is the oral version of my essay on Memorial Day 2021. It discusses the origins of Memorial Day as “Decoration Day,” a remembrance of Civil War dead that has its roots in the Appalachian decoration day ritual of decorating ancestors' graves. The episode concludes with a recitation of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem “Decoration Day.” The episode begins with a discussion of last year's essay on Memorial Day, centered around the poem "In Flanders Fields." That essay can be read here: https://westof98.substack.com/p/decoration-day-2020-poppies The referenced story in The Bitter Southerner, "Grave Concerns" by Jennifer Crossley Howard, about the decoration day traditions that persist today in the Deep South: https://bittersoutherner.com/grave-concerns-southern-decoration-day-tradition The text of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Decoration Day" poem: https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2011/05/a-memorial-day-poem-by-longfellow-from-the-atlantic-june-1882/239636/ As a special bonus, "Decoration Day" from the Drive-By Truckers, with Jason Isbell singing lead. It's not about the holiday, but it tells the story of a violent feud between Southern families and the veneration of ancestors and death plays an integral role in the story: https://open.spotify.com/track/3jemxe3JnL0QXCDh1DdEgV?si=557308f4a3f74290
Welcome to West of 98. This inaugural episode outlines the podcast to come and the topics to be covered: rural revitalization, public policy, history, literature, music, Theodore Roosevelt, native grasslands, and more. Subscribe now and be ready for upcoming episodes on city pools and Allsup's burritos. Email me at westof98@substack.com. Subscribe to my writing at westof98.substack.com, and find me on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
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