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November 18, 2025 ~ John U Bacon discusses his new book "The Gales of November The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
November 18, 2025 ~ Dave LewAllen in for Paul W. House set to vote on full Epstein files release. Butch Hollowell head of Mary Sheffield's transition team joins Dave in studio. John U Bacon discusses his new book on the Edmund Fitzgerald. Paul Glantz on the big deal between Emagine and Kinepolis. Looking ahead to Thanksgiving weather. John Skelton being held on $60 million bond. Archdiocese announces 2 year restructuring initiative and the day's biggest headlines. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Send us a textA freighter longer than a skyscraper is tall. Waves four seconds apart that can bend steel. A ballad recorded in a single take that changed how an entire industry thinks about risk. We sat down with John U. Bacon, author of The Gales of November, to trace the Edmund Fitzgerald from blueprint to bell, and from storm science to the quiet rooms where families still keep watch.We unpack what makes the Great Lakes uniquely dangerous: freshwater's sharper, closer-spaced waves; locally brewing systems that sit right over your head; and the long, narrow hulls forced by the Soo Locks. John explains how changes to the Plimsoll line let ships ride lower and heavier than intended, why welded seams and added tonnage tightened margins, and how a northern route, dark beacons, and dead radar turned one November run into a blind sprint. We revisit the race dynamics of the locks, the near-miss culture of “just one more trip,” and the accident chain that can turn routine into tragedy in minutes.Beyond the mechanics, we spend time with the people whose choices and dreams were on board: a celebrated captain delaying retirement to pay for his wife's care, a young deckhand saving for a road trip and a future he'd mapped out, an engineer mailing a ring home days before the lake took him. Then we follow the song—Gordon Lightfoot's first-take recording that became a national memorial—and how attention, grief, and storytelling helped drive reforms. The most striking fact remains: from 1875 to 1975, the lakes saw thousands of wrecks; in the fifty years since the Fitzgerald, not one commercial ship has been lost.If you care about maritime history, human resilience, and how culture can push safety forward, this conversation belongs in your queue. Listen, share with a friend who loves Great Lakes lore or music history, and if it moved you, subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show.
Open phones and a talk about the H1B and Trump/Laura Ingraham dust up. John U. Bacon, author of the excellent GALES OF NOVEMBER about the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. GREAT storytelling and book.
Steven Rinella talks with best selling author John U. Bacon about his new book, The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Joined by Brody Henderson, Randall Williams, Phil Taylor, and Corinne Schneider. Topics: A room full of hockey lovers; the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald; how and why The Great Lakes are so much more dangerous than the ocean; a thin, long ship; the waves of Lake Superior; unloading, reloading, and sailing; the best captain and the best crew; Whitefish Bay; what made the ship break apart?; the people, their stories, and the voices of their families; and more. Connect with Steve and The MeatEater Podcast Network Steve on Instagram and Twitter MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Monday marks 50 years since the Edmund Fitzgerald took its final voyage, before getting swallowed by Lake Superior in a November storm. All 29 crew on the ship died. The story of the Fitz has become an urban legend of sorts around the Great Lakes region. Exactly what led to the ship sinking is a mystery. A new book is dedicated to looking at the theories and telling the stories of the crew, through interviews with their family members. The book is called “The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” Its author, John U. Bacon, sat down for an interview with MPR News reporter Dan Kraker.
John U. Bacon, best-selling author of ‘The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald,’ joins John Williams to talk about the history of the ship Edmund Fitzgerald, why the man Edmund Fitzgerald didn’t want the ship to be named after him, the magnificence of the ship, what the Great Lakes were like […]
John U. Bacon, best-selling author of ‘The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald,’ joins John Williams to talk about the history of the ship Edmund Fitzgerald, why the man Edmund Fitzgerald didn’t want the ship to be named after him, the magnificence of the ship, what the Great Lakes were like […]
John U. Bacon, best-selling author of ‘The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald,’ joins John Williams to talk about the history of the ship Edmund Fitzgerald, why the man Edmund Fitzgerald didn’t want the ship to be named after him, the magnificence of the ship, what the Great Lakes were like […]
On the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald Mike Stubbs spoke with John U. Bacon - the author of The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
On Nov. 10, 1975, during a calamitous storm, the Edmund Fitzgerald sunk below the waves of Lake Superior. All 29 men aboard went down with the vessel. With no survivors and no eyewitnesses, there's always been a sense of mystery to what is arguably the most famous shipwreck in American history. The story itself was almost immediately immortalized in Gordon Lightfoot's surprise hit ballad “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.”Fifty years on, John U. Bacon has written a new account of the disaster. In “The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” he humanizes the story, telling stories of each man on the ship as well as several of the families left behind. (Readers will also learn a good deal about the history of industry and shipping on the Great Lakes.). In this week's episode of the Book Review podcast, Bacon spoke with the host Gilbert Cruz about his new book. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
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Aram replays an interview with John U Bacon, author of Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
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An interview with author John U. Bacon about his book "The Gales Of November: The Untold Story Of The Edmund Fitzgerald." He talks about the significance of the story of the event to the Upper Midwest, the turning points over the years that could have changed history, the creation of Gordon Lightfoot's "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Michigan Today: The legend lives onGordon Lighfoot: The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald
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3pm Hour: Adam Carter was in for Jason. He's joined by Chad Hartman to talk about this weekend's "No Kings" protest and the reaction to them. Then he talks with NY Times best-selling author John U. Bacon about his latest work "Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald".
Adam Carter is in for Jason. He's long been obsessed with the Edmund Fitzgerald, so he was excited when he saw there was a new book as we near 50 years since the sinking. He's joined by author John U. Bacon who's penned "Gales of November"
Ep. 208 brings the third installment of our “Best of…” series. Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop joined Sarah for the Best of Narrative Nonfiction, sharing her ALL-TIME TOP books in this genre. Plus, she brings a few popular nonfiction reads that didn't work for her. This episode is chock-full of fantastic book recommendations to get you ready for Nonfiction November or just your next nonfiction pick. This post contains affiliate links through which I make a small commission when you make a purchase (at no cost to you!). CLICK HERE for the full episode Show Notes on the blog. Highlights How Elizabeth got started with narrative nonfiction. How the pull of “real stories” has her returning to this category again and again. Her favorite sub-genres and what doesn't work for her. Elizabeth picks a book from her list that would be a good starter book for those new to the genre. All books mentioned in this episode are linked through Fabled Bookshop or Libro.FM. If you decide to purchase, we'd love for you to use our Fabled links in the show notes — if your budget allows. As a bonus, use promo code SARAH at checkout on Fabled's website for 10% off your order! Prefer audio? You can find the titles on Libro.fm and select Fabled as the store you'd like to support. You can also find a list of Elizabeth's books from this episode on both Fabled's website. Elizabeth's Favorite Narrative Nonfiction Sub-Genres [9:53] NATURAL DISASTER STORIES In the Kingdom of Ice by Hampton Sides (2014) | Fabled | Libro.FM [10:42] The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin (2004) | Fabled | Libro.FM [11:13] The Vortex by Scott Carney and Jason Miklian (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM [11:29] The Indifferent Stars Above by Daniel James Brown (2009) | Fabled | Libro.FM [12:18] What Stands in a Storm by Kim Cross (2015) | Fabled | Libro.FM [13:11] Isaac's Storm by Erik Larson (1999) | Fabled | Libro.FM [13:33] LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS One Summer by Bill Bryson (2013) | Fabled | Libro.FM [14:24] Pappyland by Wright Thompson (2020) | Fabled | Libro.FM [15:05] The Facemaker by Lindsey Fitzharris (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM [15:43] POP SCIENCE Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport (2019) | Fabled | Libro.FM [16:54] The Light Eaters by Zoë Schlanger (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM [17:50] Replaceable You by Mary Roach (2025) | Fabled | Libro.FM [18:35] HISTORY TOLD IN INTERESTING WAYS Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe (2018) | Fabled | Libro.FM [19:03] The Great Halifax Explosion by John U. Bacon (2017) | Fabled | Libro.FM [20:21] The Big Rich by Bryan Burrough (2009) | Fabled | Libro.FM [21:17] In Harm's Way by Doug Stanton (2001) | Fabled [21:43] Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand (2010) | Fabled | Libro.FM [22:11] ORDINARY PEOPLE MEMOIRS Red Notice by Bill Browder (2015) | Fabled | Libro.FM [22:32] Home Cooking by Laurie Colwin (1988) | Fabled | Libro.FM [23:06] GOTCHA / PEOPLE BEHAVING BADLY Bad Blood by John Carreyrou (2018) | Fabled | Libro.FM [24:22] Bad City by Paul Pringle (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM [24:24] Bully Market by Jamie Fiore Higgins (2022) | Fabled | Libro.FM [24:31] Elizabeth's All-Time Top Narrative Nonfiction [26:07] Empty Mansions by Bill Dedman and Paul Clark Newell, Jr. (2013) | Fabled | Libro.FM [26:56] The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan (2006) | Fabled | Libro.FM [28:07] The Radium Girls by Kate Moore (2016) | Fabled | Libro.FM [29:13] Destiny of the Republic by Candice Millard (2011) | Fabled | Libro.FM [30:57] The Deepest South of All by Richard Grant (2020) | Fabled | Libro.FM [33:03] Running with Sherman by Christopher McDougall (2019) | Fabled | Libro.FM [35:01] All Over but the Shoutin' by Rick Bragg (1991) | Fabled | Libro.FM [37:41] Sudden Sea by R. A. Scotti (2003) | Fabled | Libro.FM [39:52] The Day the World Came to Town by Jim DeFede (2002) | Fabled | Libro.FM [43:09] High-Profile Narrative Nonfiction That She Didn't Love [47:37] In Cold Blood by Truman Capote (1965) | Fabled | Libro.FM [47:52] When the Sea Came Alive by Garrett M. Graff (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM [49:19] Challenger by Adam Higginbotham (2024) | Fabled | Libro.FM [50:48] Other Books Mentioned Finding Flora by Elinor Florence (2025) [4:51] Undaunted Courage by Stephen E. Ambrose (1996) [5:21] The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown (2013) [12:22] Patty Reed's Doll by Rachel K. Laurgaard (1956) [12:59] In Light of All Darkness by Kim Cross (2023) [13:15] The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt (2024) [17:45] Grunt by Mary Roach (2016) [18:27] Family Happiness by Laurie Colwin (1984) [23:48] Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis (2018) [25:10] I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara (2018) [25:39] A Fever in the Heartland by Timothy Egan (2023) [28:57] The Immortal Irishman by Timothy Egan (2016) [29:02] Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt (1994) [33:48] Natchez Burning (Natchez Burning, 1 and Penn Cage, 4) by Greg Iles (2014) [34:49] Born to Run by Christopher McDougall (2009) [35:21] My Southern Journey by Rick Bragg (2015) [39:03] Reef Road by Deborah Goodrich Royce (2023) [41:45] A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Williams (2013) [42:33] The Only Place in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2019) [45:44] The Devil Reached Toward the Sky by Garrett M. Graff (2025) [50:41] Midnight in Chernobyl by Adam Higginbotham (2019) [42:33]
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Toledo Bishop Daniel Thomas kicks off Respect Life month and John U Bacon tells the untold story of the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank 50 years ago this year.
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Special Guest: John U. Bacon. The Sponsors We want to thank Underground Printing for starting this and making it possible—stop by and pick up some gear, check them out at ugpmichiganapparel.com, or check out our selection of shirts on the MGoBlogStore.com. And let's not forget our associate sponsors: Peak Wealth Management, Matt Demorest - Realtor and Lender, Ann Arbor Elder Law, Michigan Law Grad, Human Element, Sharon's Heating & Air Conditioning, The Sklar Brothers, Winewood Organics, Community Pest Solutions, Radecki Oral Surgery, Long Road Distillers, and SignalWire where we are recording this. Featured Musician: Karl Kingson THE VIDEO: [After THE JUMP: Things discussable.] --------------------- 1. Nebraska Preview: Defense starts around 12:15 pm Play a weird nickelized version of the Rock Long 3-3-5 that has a 235-pound former Indiana linebacker at edge and moveable guys who like to get upfield up front. If you get them blocked up correctly there are ways to gash them. The best team to use against them would be 2023 Michigan—definitely think El-Hadi being out will have an effect. Run the QB? 2. Nebraska Preview: Offense starts at noon Dylan Raiola is a year 2 five-star but hasn't taken that next step despite Nebraska spending a lot of money to put talent around him and gave him Air Raid expert Dana Holgorsen, but they weren't that impressive vs Cincy. Their transfer OL haven't worked out, and they're not sure who's their LT. Those receivers are legit though. 3. Interview w John U. Bacon, author of The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald starts around 12:30 pm Bacon has a new book, so we have him on to talk about the haunting story of the Great Lakes' most famous shipwreck, and the lives, loved ones, and Dodge Chargers that were left behind. Pre-Order Link: http://johnubacon.com/ 4. CMU After Review starts when we're done with Bacon They put the air back in the ball. Underwood runs make the whole offense easier. CMU offense wasn't much of a test, but we got to try out the Barham at Edge thing, and want to see it transitioned to the next phase. Also need to talk about QB runs and why Michigan hasn't been able to fit them. Featured Artist: Karl Kingson Karl Kingson is a Detroit-based multidisciplinary artist whose work blends music, film, and visual storytelling into cinematic experiences that move both the heart and the body. With a sound rooted in R&B, pop, and alternative scores, Karl creates songs that feel like stories — romantic, mysterious, and timeless. His debut single STARE exemplifies his vision: a fusion of soulful vocals, striking visuals, and performance art that transforms love into a cinematic universe. Beyond music, Karl is a visionary creative and cultural architect. His projects span bold promotional campaigns, immersive live events, and fashion-forward collaborations, always grounded in the energy of Detroit and the underdog spirit he represents. His brand essence is motivation — inspiring audiences to embrace their value, chase their dreams, and connect through authentic artistry. Songs: "Open Medium"—Karl Kingson "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald"—Gordon Lightfoot "Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)"—Looking Glass Also because Across 110th Street will get our Youtubes taken down, the opener and outro: “The Employee is Not Afraid”—Bear vs. Shark “Ruska Vodka”—Motorboat
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How do you lead a struggling team to resilience and success with heart and discipline? This week, we welcome John U Bacon, bestselling author, speaker, and former coach of one of America's worst high school hockey teams, for an inspiring conversation on leadership, optimism, and building winning cultures.John shares powerful stories from his coaching journey, emphasizing:The critical importance of leading by example and practicing what you preachWhy optimistic leadership grounded in values beats focusing only on resultsHow building trust and giving ownership transforms teams and individual athletesThe value of patience, resilience, and celebrating progress in long-term culture changeLessons from legendary coaches like Bo Schembechler and Herb BrooksThe delicate balance of discipline and empathy in effective leadershipWhy letting your team surprise you creates breakthrough moments and successWhether you're leading for the first time or looking to deepen your impact, this episode offers timeless wisdom to lead with heart, courage, and clarity, building teams capable of facing any challenge.Resources Mentioned:Book: Let Them Lead — johnubacon.comUpcoming book: The Gales of November — available October 7.Podcast and speaking engagements — johnubacon.com
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Michiganders are well aware of the Great Lakes, the beauty and power they withhold, and the story of the Edmund Fitzgerald is one that encapsulates everything about Lake Superior. Bestselling author and award-winning speaker John U. Bacon has written a number of books, some on Michigan football, and is releasing a book on the shipwreck that happened 30 years ago, the lost lives, and more about the story than just the ship going down. He joins us on Ep. 376 for a great chat about all that and more. We're also joined by Dan Hasty, the radio voice of the West Michigan Whitecaps as the Caps are playing in the postseason after a historic regular season. Take a listen to the pod, pre-order 'The Gales of November', and keep an eye on the Whitecaps! Thanks to: Memorial Healthcare Wellness Center, Rivals Taphouse & Grille, Nelson House Funeral Home, Success Group Mortgage & Servicing, Kori Shook & Associates, AZee Branding Solutions, Jacobs Insurance, Shiawassee County Fair, Nichols Painting, SportsNet MI
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