Neglected Stories: People, History, Movements

America's 250th - Who Belongs in the Story? Revisiting the Bicentennial of '76

Neglected Stories: People, History, Movements welcomes renowned historian Marc Stein for a fascinating conversation about his groundbreaking new book, Bicentennial: A Revolutionary History of the 1970s. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, Professor Stein takes listeners back to the nation’s 200th birthday in 1976—a celebration remembered for fireworks and patriotic ceremonies, but also a time of intense debate over race, class, gender, sexuality, and the meaning of democracy. Centered on Philadelphia, the birthplace of the American Revolution, Stein reveals how activists, politicians, and ordinary citizens fought to define who belonged in the American story. From Mayor Frank Rizzo and President Richard Nixon to civil rights, feminist, and LGBTQ+ movements, the Bicentennial became a struggle over the nation’s unfinished promises. Marc Stein is Professor of U.S. History and Constitutional Law at San Francisco State University and president of the Organization of American Historians.

Is Cuba at the Breaking Point? The Resilience of the Caribbean Nation

What is happening in Cuba today—and why should people in the United States pay close attention? This is a timely and thought-provoking interview with economist and policy analyst Kevin Cashman, a  researcher at Transition Security Project,  US–UK think tank. Cuba is facing one of the most severe crises in its modern history. Rolling blackouts, fuel shortages, food scarcity, and mass migration are placing extraordinary pressure on the island. In our conversation, Cashman explains the roots of Cuba’s energy emergency, the government’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels through solar and renewable energy projects, and the growing impact of renewed U.S. sanctions. We also examine alarming rhetoric from the Trump Administration, including threats of military action and regime change, and discuss how escalating tensions could harm not only ordinary Cubans but also U.S. taxpayers, regional stability, and American families already burdened by domestic challenges.

Is Book Publishing and Reading Reading in America Dead?

A conversation with David Borgenicht, founder of Quirk Books. From a small independent idea to a publisher known for creativity and bold concepts, his story is a reminder that even in a changing world, there’s still space for imagination—and for books that surprise us. Borgenicht is an American publisher, entrepreneur, and co-founder of, he co-created the massively successful Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook series, which became a publishing phenomenon, selling millions of copies worldwide and helping define a category of smart, giftable nonfiction. Founded in 2002, Quirk Books carved out a niche by blending humor, design, and unconventional concepts—publishing breakout hits like Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, which helped pioneer the literary mashup trend and became a cultural touchstone. In October of 2025 the company was acquired by Andrews McMeel Publishing, Davidremains as the Publisher. At a time when so much of our attention lives online,conversations like this bring us back to something simple butpowerful: the experience of reading, discovering, and sharing ideas.

Baseball Stadiums and Class in America

Host Pedro Rodriguez speaks with Northwest Philadelphia native and author Seth Tannenbaum about his provocative new book, Bleacher Seats and Luxury Suites. In the book, Tannenbaum examines one of America’s most beloved institutions—Major League Baseball stadiums—and reveals the striking class divisions built into the fan experience. While baseball has long marketed itself as the democratic pastime, open to all, the modern ballpark tells a different story: luxury boxes for the affluent, exclusive clubs for corporate elites, and increasingly distant, expensive bleacher seats for ordinary fans. Born and raised in Northwest Philadelphia, where he played Little League baseball as a child, Tannenbaum brings both personal affection and sharp social analysis to this discussion. His work asks a timely question: when even our leisure spaces are segregated by wealth, what does that say about American democracy itself? Listen to this fascinating conversation about baseball, architecture, inequality, memory, and the hidden class politics of America’s stadiums.

Conni Bille Talks Feminism Today, Backlash & Future

At a time when hard-won rights are being challenged and women across the United States are facing renewed political and cultural backlash, understanding the history—and future—of the feminist movement has never been more urgent. This Neglected Stories: People, History, Movements' episode  presents a powerful and timely conversation with Philadelphia-based feminist, political activist, and community leader Conni Bille. Drawing from decades of organizing in New York, Atlanta  and Philadelphia, Conni reflects on the emergence of the modern feminist movement, the victories that reshaped American society, and the deeper structural challenges that remain unresolved. Together, we explore the forces behind today’s backlash—from legislative rollbacks to cultural resistance—and what they reveal about the unfinished work of gender equity. But this is not just a conversation about the past. It is about strategy, resilience, and the road ahead. What must today’s feminist movement do differently? Where should alliances be strengthened? And how can new generations build power in a rapidly changing political landscape? This episode is both a reflection and a call to action—grounded in lived experience and sharpened by the realities of this moment.