Let me put my Historian Hat on

Episode 25: The Politics of MSEs

Dallas is one of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup. In this episode I explore how Mega-Sporting-Events (MSEs) have played a role in international relations, altering perceptions of host nations. In recent years this has brought more attention to Human Rights, creating opportunities to move beyond national and civic boosterism and to create lasting legacies. * Correction: I note that the 1934 World Cup took place before fascism took hold in Italy. Mussolini took power in 1922, and did in fact try to use the 1934 World Cup to promote his regime. Get full access to History + Sport at amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe [https://amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 24: Another Endless War

Responding to the recent bombing of Iran by the United States, I explore how Cold War ideology and the Military Industrial Complex continue to shape and complicate U.S. foreign relations. Get full access to History + Sport at amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe [https://amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 23: Kansas and the Harms of Reform Fatigue

In this episode I reflect on the chaos of our current political moment before looking at the lessons of Bleeding Kansas. I discuss the success of Kansas as a political project of the New England Emigrant Aid Company to consider how we may reach out to Red States, and warn of the dangers of “reform fatigue,” which has undermined every truly progressive movement toward equality. Get full access to History + Sport at amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe [https://amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 22: MLK Day 2025

This episode reflects on the lessons of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. amidst the heaviness of January 20, 2025. I weave together ideas that I think can help us move forward and inspire us as we face a daunting four years ahead. Get full access to History + Sport at amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe [https://amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 21: Panic, Depression, and Christmas Fulfillment

This is my Christmas Episode. I start by walking us through the cycles of Panics and Depressions in U.S. history before discussing the causes of the Great Depression and how it set us on path towards never ending consumption. I conclude by considering the dangers of modern consumption, including its dehumanizing impact on anonymous blue-collar workers left unfulfilled within the Christmas supply chain. Get full access to History + Sport at amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe [https://amcgregor.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]